Turning Points ~ Section I

By Delwyn

Section I, Next Section

Posted on Saturday, 2 June 2001

From the moment the telephone woke her up, Elizabeth Bennet knew it was going to be one of those days. You know, the ones where nothing goes right and you don't get a chance to sit down from dawn to midnight. But Elizabeth was used to those kinds of days.

"Hello?" she said, sleepily.

"Elizabeth, could you possibly come over ASAP to pick up a child?"

"What happened?"

"Foster father was beating him when the mother called the police. The mother is in intensive care and the child just needs your loving, tender care and some minor medical aid."

Elizabeth paused for a second. "How old? Girl? Boy? How long has he been in the system?"

"He's 7 years old and has been in the foster care system for three years."

"I'll be right over."

Elizabeth hung up and got out of bed. Groggily, she managed to pull on a pair of jeans, a turtleneck and a sweatshirt. She crept downstairs and scribbled a note to her sister before grabbing the van keys and leaving the house.

On the way, Elizabeth worked with her thoughts. Too often she came into the situation with a hot head. The twenty-minute drive to the police station was always one she used to calm herself down.

When she reached the station, Elizabeth trotted inside and nodded to the officer on duty at the desk.

"They're in the first room."

"Thanks, Fred."

"You're real good, Miss Elizabeth."

She flashed a smile at him and entered the office. There stood a man in disarray as if he, too, had just woken up, and a police sergeant. Elizabeth looked to a sofa against the wall to see a young boy huddled in the corner looking at her with wide eyes.

Elizabeth winked at him. "Good morning? Or is it still good evening?"

"It's 4:45."

"Just in time to catch Burger King's breakfast!"

"Elizabeth, before you go, you know you have to fill out this paperwork."

Elizabeth pouted. "I was hoping to get out of it this time," she grumbled, and snatched the clipboard out of the sergeant's hands. She picked a pen out of the collection in a coffee mug sporting "World's Greatest Dad" on the side.

Standing in front of the open door, she quickly filled out the forms and handed the clipboard back to the men. "Anything else?"

"No, ma'am."

"Keep me informed and I will see you both later on- when it's actually daylight outside, I hope."

The two men left her alone in the room with child. "Hello, my name is Elizabeth. What's yours?"

The boy didn't reply. Elizabeth, not a bit fazed said, "Well, when you have picked out a name you like, you let me know. Until then... I think I'll call you Maxwell because that's my favourite coffee. I guess you're hungry, so why don't we go out and see if there are any restaurants open, okay?"

Elizabeth walked out of the office and started to talk small-talk to Fred. About a minute later, a small face poked around the door, then the boy stepped out of the office.

Elizabeth quickly finished talking to Fred and said, "Are you ready to go, Maxwell? My van's outside."

They walked out and Elizabeth opened the passenger door for him. She got in the driver's seat and pretended to busy herself with moving the paperwork around while the boy decided whether or not he was going to trust this stranger enough to get in the van.

When he finally did get in, she turned on the car and said, "Seat belt, please."

Maxwell did as she said and cowered as far back in the corner as he could.

Elizabeth hummed along to the radio while driving. "Is Burger King okay for you? I don't think anything else will be open at this time in the morning."

Maxwell didn't reply. Elizabeth turned in and went through the drive-through. "What do you want?" she asked.

He shrugged.

"Well if you don't tell me I'll get you what I like."

He shrugged again.

She leaned out the window and said, "I'd like two number ones with fries, and Sprites."

The lady repeated the order and asked if that was all. "Yes," said Elizabeth.

She drove up to the second window and paid the girl. Five minutes later they got their food. Elizabeth checked to make sure everything was there.

"All right. That's one burger for you and one for me. One fries for you, and one for me. Sprite for you and a Sprite for me. No, don't put it down there, it'll spill. You can put it in the holder under the radio. That's it. Now, here are the napkins, and I'm going to have to eat while I drive, so if I call out 'Napkin!', your job is to give me a napkin to wipe up whatever mess I've made, got it? Are we all set? Well let's get you home and into bed then!"

While they drove Elizabeth ate and warbled along with the radio. Once she thought she heard a stifled giggle. She glanced over at Maxwell but his face was turned away looking out the window. She spilled some ketchup on her lap.

"Napkin!" she called out.

A napkin was promptly produced and she used it to wipe up her mess as best she could. "You're pretty good at this aren't you?"

Five minutes later, she heard him say, "Fries."

"You want more fries?" she asked.

"My name is Fries," he said.

Elizabeth grinned. "Fries, I am very pleased to meet you. My name is Elizabeth. The others call me all sorts of variations of that name so you can pick one of theirs or make up your own, it doesn't bother me."

After a few minutes, Elizabeth pulled into the driveway of a large mansion. It was old and looked a little run-down, but one could still see remnants of its majestic heyday. Fries eyed the building warily.

Elizabeth said, "I'm sure you're exhausted, so I'll show you to your bedroom right away. I have to work today; I'm afraid you'll have to introduce yourself to Jane, my sister. She's very sweet and she'll feed you whatever you want that we have in the kitchen. Over time you'll get to know the other kids."

Fries wondered what she meant by 'other kids'. Didn't this Elizabeth lady have a husband to beat him? Just a sister?

Elizabeth pulled up to the front door and got out. She had already gotten the front door open by the time Fries got out of the car. Elizabeth guided him down the hall to the bottom of a huge staircase. She led him up three flights and then down a hall to a room. It was definitely bigger than any room he had ever lived in before, but it was not a gigantic room. Normal sized for an average boy's bedroom. There was a bed in the corner, a desk in front of one window, a seat in a bay window to the right and a bookshelf next to the closet door. The walls were bare and the bedspread was a navy blue with red pillows.

Elizabeth looked around herself. "This is your room. You can start decorating it like you want it, but I'm afraid I will not allow pictures of half-naked women, all right? This was all really short notice, so I don't know what kind of books you like or sports or anything like that. But you know what? I am so looking forward to getting to know you better! What more fun way to do that than to walk in your room and see what you like? The computer is downstairs. We share it lovingly, so I don't want any fighting or unfairness over time spent on it. The kids can show you how to use it and where it is etc. There should be clothes for you in the closet and chest of drawers. Wear clean underwear and everything else is up to you, ok? Ask Jane if you need anything else today, all right? Oh! And one more thing. The bathroom is right over here, let me show you."

Elizabeth showed Fries down the hall. He passed three doors each with names on them. One said, "Babe Ruth", another said "Dragonball" and the last said, "Darth Maul".

"Here's the bathroom. Shampoo, soap and toothpaste are all there for you to use. You get the green toothbrush and towels, okay? Anything else?"

Fries did not reply.

"Great! Let's get you into bed. I know I envy you so much! To be able to crawl into the nice, soft, warm bed...."

Fries followed her. Elizabeth pulled out his pajamas from under the pillows. "These should fit. Maybe a bit big, but we'll get you some better ones if you want."

Elizabeth paused and then said, "Sleep tight! I'll see you when I get back from work. That is, if you don't sleep through the day!"

Elizabeth kissed the top of Fries' head and then gently closed the door. She paused, listening for a second, and then walked down to Babe Ruth's bedroom. She walked in the dark bedroom and pulled the covers up closer over the small boy. She kissed his rosy cheek and then walked out. Dragonball had one leg over the covers and one in. He always slept like that. Elizabeth chuckled and kissed his cheek. She didn't bother fixing his covers. Five minutes later, one leg was back out again. Darth Maul never seemed to move during the night at all. He always lay in the exact same, stiff position he went to sleep in. She kissed his head and then was about to close the door when she heard him murmur, "Bethie?"

"Hey, sweetie," she said, coming back in to sit on the edge of his bed.

"You're goin'?" he said, sleepily, rubbing his eyes.

"Yeah, just for a few hours. You know I have to work."

He nodded.

"There's a new boy who's come."

He seemed more interested. "A new boy?"

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "His name is Fries and I want you to be the man of the house and show him around, all right?"

"I will!" he said.

"Good." She kissed his cheek. "I knew I could count on you."

"Come back soon."

"You know I will. I love you, DM."

"Luv ya, too, Bethie."

William heard the buzzer in his half-asleep daze. He reached over and hit the release button. Two minutes later the front door opened and a feminine voice called, "Hello? Anyone at home?"

"Of course someone's home! Did you expect me to just get up and walk out to the store?"

A young woman entered his room. William gave her an obvious good look from head to toe and then back again. "You're the lady Fitz bribed to bring me food?"

Elizabeth rocked back on her heels a bit and chewed the inside of her cheek. "I'm Elizabeth Bennet," she finally replied.

"I obviously don't need to introduce myself since Fitz has probably told you all about me."

"Actually, Mr. Darcy, your cousin only talked with my sister. I'm afraid I have the pleasure of only knowing your name."

"You mean you're glad my name is all you know?"

"No, sir, I mean I have the privilege of knowing your name but no other privilege of intimate knowledge of you."

"Hmph."

"My sister made you some stew with some mashed potatoes and green beans. She understood from Mr. Fitzwilliam that you did not dislike these foods."

"Doesn't go to say I like them," he grumbled.

Elizabeth looked at him and said in an innocent voice, "I can leave if you like."

"No, I'll eat whatever slop you brought."

Elizabeth ignored his rude manner and took the tray out of her bag. She set it up over his lap and put down a napkin, a knife, fork, spoon, cup and finally a plate. Then she put the stew, mashed potatoes and beans on the plate. Lastly, she filled the glass with water.

"That's it? Water?"

"If you tell me what you prefer to drink, I'll bring it."

"I prefer orange juice with my meals."

"With lots of pulp, no pulp?"

"No pulp."

William began eating. He paused after two bites. "Do you normally hover over invalids like a vulture while their eating?"

"No. Do you like the food?"

"It's okay."

"Is there anything else you want me to do while I'm here?"

"No. I have a maid who cleans the place."

"Well I meant errands. Did you want anything that's out of your reach?"

William didn't even reply, he just glared at her.

Elizabeth shrugged and turned away to look around the room while he ate. It was an elegant, pleasing room. William had had it expressly decorated to be tolerable after many weeks of sitting in it. The window provided the prime source of light. Original paintings adorned the pale blue walls.

William eyed her warily. She was about his age, had a mass of unruly brown curls, and an average build. She was dressed in jeans, a turtleneck and sweater. She wore sandals on her feet despite the cold temperatures outside.

When he had finished, Elizabeth asked, "May I use your sink to wash these dishes."

William nodded.

He stared at the wall listening to her humming as she washed the dishes in his kitchen.

She came back and put the things in her bag. She handed him a sheet of paper and a pencil. "If you could fill this questionnaire out it would help us make food you like. I'll be back later on tonight. Is there anything in particular you would like?"

"No."

"All right. Is there anything I can get you before I go?"

"That book over there."

She handed it to him, picked up her bag and then walked out of his apartment.

"What kind of a name is Fries?"

"Yeah."

"I mean, is that what your mamma named you?"

"Yeah. Is that what your mamma named you?"

"Hey! Leave him be!"

"You're so bossy, Matilda!"

"No, I'm not!"

"And you think you're so smart just because you picked the name of a book character who is smart."

"Well I read a lot better than you!"

"So? I haven't been to first grade, yet. Duh!"

"Shut up."

"Hey! What did I say about using those two words in this house?"

"Lizzy!!!"

Elizabeth crouched down to the ground as a crowd of children came running towards her. She hugged as many as she could, kissing tousled heads and cheeks.

"Izzy?"

"What is it sweetie?"

"I hurt my fumb."

"You did? Where? I don't see anything."

"Right dere."

"Aw, it's all right. Izzy will kiss it and it won't hurt anymore." Elizabeth kissed her thumb once. "Hmmm. Tastes good! Do you mind if I take a bite of your thumb?"

Tania giggled. "You can't bite my fumb!"

"I can't? Watch me."

Tania squealed and hid her thumb inside her other hand. Elizabeth laughed at her and kissed her cheek loudly. "You're such a silly girl!"

"Bethie!"

"Here's my big man! My, you've grown since I left!"

"Nuh aw. That was only this morning!"

"No, no, I do believe you have grown. See, I can tell by the way your hair sticks up. Do you know what that means?"

"No."

"It means that you didn't brush your hair. Go on. Go brush your hair, young man." Elizabeth asked Matilda, "Where's Jane?"

Matilda pointed to the kitchen.

"Thank you very much my darling Matilda."

Elizabeth walked into the kitchen and dumped the bag on the island in the centre. Jane smiled at her and asked, "How was our new client?"

"Very, very rude and grumpy."

"What's wrong with him?"

"I don't know. He looked healthy except he couldn't get out of bed.

"Oh. Did he like the meal?"

"I think so. As far as I could tell. He's not exactly complimentary. He didn't eat it all, though. I just don't think he is as active and therefore will not require that much food."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"How has Fries been?"

"He's a darling boy, but has yet to say a word, I'm afraid."

"Oh dear. At least he named himself."

"What, did you give him the usual start-off?"

"Maxwell? Yeah. Jane, I don't see what's wrong with that name! I think Maxwell is a much better name than they usually end up picking anyway. Why do they all feel the urge to change it?"

Jane chuckled and shrugged. "I'll have lunch on the table a lot faster if you would make three PB&J sandwiches."

Elizabeth got the peanut butter and grape jelly out of the fridge and began spreading the stuff on the white bread.

"Don't forget to cut the crusts off of one of them."

"Things been going all right so far?"

"Yes, fine. Just the usual squabbles every now and then."

"We need to get Fries enrolled in school as soon as he is ready."

"I know. How long do you think it'll take?"

"I don't know. Hopefully not more than two weeks."

"I took the liberty of taking Tinkerbell down to the Hiatt's to play with Charlotte."

"That's nice. Did she enjoy it?"

"She's still there. I said I would pick her up after you came home."

"Do you want me to go pick her up?"

"No, I'll go after lunch."

"She's eating there?"

Jane nodded.

"Rosie has her dance lesson at two."

"Oh shoot! I forgot! Do you have time to take her?"

"I can drop her off on my way to Mr. James' house."

"Wonderful. Any other appointments today?"

"Check the calendar. I rarely remember them all."

Jane looked at the calendar covered in writing. "We have a meeting with Dragonball's teacher tomorrow morning."

"How early?"

"Seven."

Elizabeth groaned.

"Elizabeth, can I do Tae Kwon Do?"

Elizabeth looked at Storm. "Why do you want to do it?"

"Because I think it would be fun."

"I'll see if there are any classes nearby you can enter."

"Kathy says that there is a place over on North Monroe that gives lessons."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "Does Kathy take these lessons?"

Storm looked at her feet. "Yeah, kind of."

"Storm, is this something you really want to do, or are just doing it because it will make you more accepted?"

"No, Elizabeth, I really want to give it a try!"

"All right. You look up the number and write it down for me. I'll see if I can work something out."

"Thanks, Elizabeth."

"Call the others down for lunch," she called out after the retreating adolescent.

Jane looked at her sister. "Do you think she should?"

"What? Do Tae Kwon Do? I guess. It does seem like the kind of thing she would enjoy. And I know it releases a lot of anger."

"You think Storm still has bottled resentment and anger?"

"Definitely. No girl goes through what she did and comes out normal. I'm proud of her for how far she's come, but I think these classes might allow her to release more."

"And you know she's obsessed with X-Men, Spiderman and Batman comics."

"Does seem to click, doesn't it? I'm not about to discourage her and say she should be reading stupid fairy tales!"

"I know, I know. You never do limit the children to gender roles, do you?"

"Of course not! That's the first step to sexism which is often what has troubled these kids. Men think that women and girls are subhuman and can treat them so! Like toys!"

"Hush, Elizabeth! They'll be here any minute."

A sound like an elephant herd on the stampede rumbled through the old mansion as three boys and two girls ran down the stairs and into the kitchen as fast as they could.

Elizabeth called out over the racket. "Have you washed your hands? Go wash your hands!" She caught Babe Ruth's hands. "No, Babe, not in the kitchen. In the bathroom, like I always tell you. Go on. In the bathroom."

Ten minutes later, four boys, five girls, and two women sat down at the large kitchen table. They all bowed their heads as Jane said grace. Well...Elizabeth had to bow Dragonball's snickering head.

While they ate, Elizabeth listened to stories and orchestrated the conversation so that not one child dominated and every child had the opportunity to speak. Jane was the quieter one, who took care of any needs and wants with no fuss or circumstance.

After the meal, each child cleared their own dishes away and one more thing from the table. Elizabeth and Jane finished the rest.

"Do you know where Fries went?" Elizabeth asked her sister.

"No. He didn't say a word at lunch."

"I know. I'm going to go and try and have a word with him. I have an inkling."

"What's your inkling?" Jane asked with an amused look on her face.

"I think he is confused and a little bit in the dark. I'm guessing those idiots at the police station didn't explain to him what was going to happen."

"I'm on my way to pick up Tinkerbell."

"When are you going to start cooking the evening meals?"

"After you take Rosie to her dance lesson."

"Oh, that's right."

Elizabeth walked upstairs in search of her new foster child. "Dragonball have you seen Fries?"

"No. He's strange, Liz. He don't say nothing."

"He doesn't say anything. Dragonball, my precious, give him some time to get used to this house. It's a big, noisy place and he may have lived in a very small quiet house only yesterday, okay? Give him some friendship, some happiness, some fun, and some love, and I think he will be a nice addition to our family of 11, don't you think?"

"You mean we have twelve now?"

"You bet. A full dozen."

"What's a dozen?"

"A dozen is what people say for the number twelve. So if you want 12 pencils, you say you want a dozen pencils."

"Oh. So we have a dozen peoples in this house?"

"A dozen people, yes."

"Cool!"

"Why don't you go play a game of Twister with Babe Ruth?"

"Naw, that's too hard. My legs don't reach, Liz."

"Well why don't you go find a nice picture book to look at? And then tonight you can come sit on my bed and tell me all about it, okay?"

"Okay."

Elizabeth kissed his cheek and patted him on the bottom in the direction of the library. She turned and went into Fries' new room. He sat in the window seat looking at some of the children playing in the backyard. The room hadn't changed since she had left it this morning except for the bed looking like it had been slept in.

Elizabeth shut the door gently behind her, walked over to the window seat and sat opposite him, looking at the children two stories below them.

"Why don't you go join them?"

Fries shrugged.

"Did you get enough to eat at lunch?"

He nodded.

Elizabeth remained silent for a few moments. "Do you want to talk to me about anything?"

Fries shook his head.

"Did the men at the police station tell you who I am?"

Fries shook his head.

"Did they tell you anything?"

He shook his head once more.

Elizabeth sighed. "I'm sorry they didn't think to tell you what would happen. From what I know, your previous foster father is in prison, and your foster mother is in the hospital. She's going to be all right, though. You are going to stay with Jane and I for a while, all right? Jane is my sister. We take in kids like you who need a loving home, and we provide all the love and happiness we can. Then sometimes parents come to take the child back home and sometimes new parents come to take the child to a new loving, happy home."

Fries finally spoke. "I've been in three different homes."

He said it matter-of-factly, as if it was nothing unusual. Elizabeth's face furrowed in sorrow. She did not enjoy the first few days of a new child. They were invariably filled with sadness and bitterness.

"A few of your new friends have been in more than that. But you know what? Jane and I make sure that when you leave our house, you leave to go to good families. We have not failed yet. If you want, I can find a few kids in some new families and you can ask them if they like their new parents."

He didn't say anything.

"Fries... I will never attempt to excuse people who do bad things or say everything will be perfect from now on. But you have to know that not everyone is like that and not every family will be mean. While you are here, I hope you will learn that. We enjoy being together and having fun. Jane and I love each and every child that comes to live in this house. And when they go on to better families, we don't stop loving them. They often come back to visit. You don't have to leave unless you want to. And if after two weeks of living here, you still don't like it and you want to leave, I will make the arrangements. All right?"

Fries shrugged.

"Will you go down and play with the others now?"

Fries cowered into the corner of the window seat and shook his head.

"Come on," Elizabeth coaxed. "Will you give them a try?"

Fries shook his head again, shyly.

"Well what are you going to do for the rest of the day?"

Fries shrugged.

"Do you like to read?"

He shook his head.

"What do you like then?"

"Can I come with you?"

"Come with me? Sure. I'm taking Rosie to her dance lesson."

Fries got up and walked to the door. Elizabeth said, "Why don't you put some shoes on? It's a little cold to go walking around barefoot, yet."

He turned and put his shoes on, patting the velcro down carefully.

Elizabeth walked out behind him and fetched Rosie. "Go put your leotard and tutu on. We have to leave in ten minutes." They actually had to leave in twenty minutes, but Elizabeth hoped that if she said ten, Rosie would be ready in twenty.

In the car, Rosie chattered on about the game she was playing with Tania. Fries sat silently in the seat behind Elizabeth, staring out of the window. When they reached the dance studio, Elizabeth walked with Rosie into the building, with Fries following her, hands deep in his pockets, his keen eyes looking about him.

Elizabeth sat down with Fries beside her and Rosie on her lap, still chattering away. They waited until the previous class had ended. Elizabeth helped Rosie put her shoes on and pulled her fine, blonde hair into a ponytail. Then Elizabeth gently pushed her in the direction of the other little girls and watched as Rosie carefully sidled up to them and kept her mouth closed the entire time while the girls talked amongst themselves before the teacher brought them in order at the bar.

Elizabeth sighed, sadly. She got up to go and walked out of the studio. She was nearly to the car when she realized that she had left Fries behind. She walked back to the studio and saw Fries still sitting where she'd left him. He sat there; swinging his legs and intently watching the little girls do ballet exercises.

Elizabeth knelt beside him and whispered, "Do you want to come with me or sit here and watch until I come back?"

Without taking his eyes away from the class, he said, "Watch."

"All right, be good." She kissed his cheek and left.

Part 2

Posted on Tuesday, 12 June 2001

Elizabeth delivered meals to three more people before returning to the dance studio. Fries was exactly where she had left him, still swinging his legs, watching the girls dance about to music in the centre of the studio. She quietly sat beside him, took his hand and gave it a loving squeeze.

"Did you like watching the class?"

Fries nodded.

When Rosie, Fries and Elizabeth were on their way home, Rosie said, "Why was Fries there the whole time, Lizzy?"

"He wanted to watch."

"But dancing is a girls thing, Lizzy."

"Not necessarily. Besides, Storm wants to do Tae Kwon Do, which people say is a boy's thing. So if Storm can do that, why can't a boy do dancing? Many boys do, you know."

"But still, all the other girls were talking about him."

"Let them. They're being silly. And you know better than they. Haven't I always told you to do what you want to do, not what people say you should do?"

Once they were home, Elizabeth asked Fries privately, "Do you want to take ballet lessons? You can, you know. There's nothing stopping you."

Fries just shrugged. Elizabeth didn't push for an answer. She just said, "Well, if you do, just let me know, all right?"

Elizabeth walked into the kitchen to find Jane pulling a dish full of chicken baked in a sauce.

"Do you need any help, mademoiselle?"

"No, I think I have everything under control."

"When will it be ready for delivery?"

"In about ten minutes."

"Is there anything you want me to do?"

"No, everything's fine."

"I think I'll go and give Belle another lesson on the piano if she's interested."

"She should be in the playroom."

Elizabeth went in search of Belle and found her playing My Little Ponies with Tania. "Belle, do want to play on the piano with me?"

Belle looked up at her, conflict playing across her face. "Can I do it after I finish with Tania?"

"I'm going on my rounds in a few minutes, so I'll catch you another time, all right?"

Belle nodded.

Elizabeth went to the piano by herself in the living room and began to play Chopin's Nocturne in E minor. It took only two seconds for her to become totally involved in the music. It was one of her favourite pieces. Five minutes later, she finished. Movement caught her eye and she turned to see Fries backing away.

"Wait. Were you listening?" asked Elizabeth.

Fries nodded.

"Did you like it?"

He nodded more emphatically.

"Well come here and try a couple of notes."

Fries hesitantly came forward and Elizabeth pulled him over to sit next to her on the piano bench.

"Have you ever seen a piano before?"

He shrugged.

"Just from a distance?"

He nodded.

"Well this is the keyboard. Hit the keys to produce sounds. It's organized in what is called octaves. Every set of eight notes is an octave. The notes are named from A to G. And the black keys are called sharps and flats considering whether you're up or down. Got that?"

Fries paused and then shook his head. Elizabeth sighed. "Never mind. Let's play chopsticks."

"Hello!"

Darcy woke up to the sound of her voice calling from the door. She walked in briskly carrying the same bag she had earlier.

"How are you this evening, Mr. Darcy?"

"How do you expect?" he retorted, irately.

"I'm glad you're in a good mood, today," she said just as sarcastically as he spoke.

She set up the tray on his lap and laid it out with a table setting. Next she poured a glass of orange juice. "One hundred percent pure Florida orange juice with no pulp."

Finally, she dished out some baked chicken on his plate with sauce on top. He only grunted before picking up his fork and beginning to eat.

Elizabeth turned away and sat Indian style on the floor a few yards from his bed. He watched her with concealed curiosity as she pulled out a magazine and some scissors. He continued to watch as she proceeded to flip through the magazine and cut out bits she liked.

Three minutes later she looked up at him and noticed him staring. "Do you need something?" she asked, pleasantly.

"No." After a pause he couldn't resist asking, "What are you doing?"

"I'm making a birthday card for one of my kids."

"Kids? You have children?"

"Ten, in fact."

"Ten?"

She nodded and turned back to her task.

After a longer silence, he asked, "How old are you?"

She laughed cheerfully and replied, "25."

"Did you have six at once or something?"

She laughed again and he blushed. She was laughing at him!

"I run a foster home. I am not even married, Mr. Darcy."

"Oh."

He turned to his meal and finished it as quickly as he could.

"Would you like some dessert?" she asked. "I have some cheesecake if you'd like."

"No."

"Fine. I will see you tomorrow, then."

Within minutes she was packed up and gone.

"Hey, Fries."

Elizabeth watched as DM put on his boots. "Do you want to come with us?" she asked.

He shrugged.

"Go put on some warmer clothes and you can sit next to me. We'll watch DM's game together."

Fries turned and walked up the stairs to his room.

Thirty minutes later, Elizabeth was sitting next to Fries watching DM's Saturday morning football game. She cheered as loud as any other parent there. Shouting advice and encouragement. She enjoyed these times. She watched with eagerness and anticipation as DM got the ball and started to dribble it up the field.

"Come on, come on!" she yelled enthusiastically.

DM took a shot but it was deflected by the keeper. Elizabeth sighed and sat down, still clapping. "Good try, DM! Do it again!"

Elizabeth glanced at Fries. He wasn't watching the game at all. Instead he was facing the woods behind them. Just looking. "What are you looking at?" she asked him.

He shrugged, but continued to look around at the forest. "Do you want to go and play in the woods for a bit?"

He nodded.

"All right, but I want to be able to see you at all times, understood?"

He nodded again and began to climb down the bleachers. Elizabeth turned her attention back to the game.

No other parent could be more proud than Elizabeth when DM finally scored a goal. She jumped up and clapped and yelled the loudest. She may have been the youngest 'parent' there, but it didn't matter. She may not have been DM's mother, or known him four years ago, but that didn't matter. She loved him just as much as any parent loved their child. And she boasted about him just like any other parent boasted about their child.

After the game was over, Elizabeth walked over to the team's bench. She watched as the boys gathered around the cooler to drink Capri Suns and eat orange slices. She went up to the coach and said, "Thank you so much, Mr. Grier. I appreciate all the time you give up to coach these boys."

"It's my pleasure, Miss Bennet. DM has improved so much this season."

Elizabeth smiled, proudly.

"I have tremendous respect for you, Miss Bennet. I don't know how you do it, but I do respect you."

"It's not all my doing, Mr. Grier. Other people influence DM to improve and overcome the past. You're a big influence on him, too. Bringing up these children is always a collaborative effort."

"I'm proud to know that I've influenced him even a little."

DM ran over to her, his face sticky with orange. "Hey, sweetie!" Elizabeth kissed his face despite its grubbiness. "That was an awesome game! I'm so proud of you!"

DM beamed. "Did you see my goal?"

"I sure did. Right to the back of the net. I think it'll be on the next tape of 100 Greatest Goals."

"You think?"

"Why not? Come on, shall we go get some pizza for lunch?"

"Yeah!!"

"Well go and get your things and I'll find Fries."

"Aw man. Fries has to come?"

"Why don't you want Fries to come? He watched your game, didn't he?"

"I know, but I wanted it to just be you."

"I promise I'll take you alone for pizza next time, okay? We can't leave Fries out right now, can we? You don't want to be mean like that, do you?"

"No..."

"All right then. Go and get your things and meet me by the van."

Elizabeth ruffled his head and walked towards the woods to find Fries. At first she couldn't see him. For a second she panicked. Calming herself, she walked into the woods looking around. A minute later she spotted something moving and found Fries sitting behind a bush. Elizabeth paused to watch as he wiped the sand in front of him to be smooth. Picking up a stick he proceeded to draw pictures in the sand.

Elizabeth took a step forward and squatted beside him. "Hey, sweetie. What are you drawing?"

He shrugged.

"DM's game is over. We're going to go have pizza for lunch. Are you coming?"

Fries shook his head.

"You're not? Why?"

He didn't respond. "Fries, we have to be going, now."

He shook his head again.

Elizabeth paused. "Do you like drawing in the sand?"

He paused before nodding.

"Would you like to draw on paper instead?"

He nodded.

"If you come with us to pizza, I promise to give you paper and crayons when we get home. Would you like that?"

He nodded, put down his stick and stood up.

"Wonderful," Elizabeth said.

They began to walk back. Nothing could compare to the feeling Elizabeth felt when Fries slipped his small hand into hers.

As soon as they were home again, Elizabeth set Fries up with some blank paper and a box of crayons. She kissed his head and left him alone.

Elizabeth stocked up her bags and left to deliver the midday meals.

William heard her come in. He put his book down.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Darcy.

"Afternoon."

Without delay, she set up the tray with his meal. When he was fully supplied, she sat down cross-legged again and took out some papers. William watched her as he ate.

Some of her dark curls were escaping their tie. She would patiently keep tucking them behind her ear as she filled in the paperwork before her.

As soon as he had finished, she washed the dishes and put them in her bag. Before she left, she said, "Have a nice afternoon. I will be back about 8."

When Elizabeth returned home, she found Fries still at the table drawing a picture of a cat. "Hey sweetie. Are you having fun?"

He didn't reply, but began to shuffle through the many drawings he had done. Finding the one he wanted, he handed it to her.

"Thank you! Is this for me?"

He nodded.

The drawing was of a dog by a tree with puffy white clouds in a blue sky.

"It's beautiful. I'll go and put it on the fridge so the others can see it, too, okay?"

Elizabeth put the picture on the fridge with a couple of magnets among the other drawings, good grades on tests, and photographs.

Elizabeth went back to Fries. "Can I see the rest of your pictures?"

He nodded. She looked at each of them. They started out peacefully, with trees, animals, a house and a flower. Then she came across a couple of disturbing ones. One was of a belt with a red end to it. The next was a picture of a woman with blue and black around her eye and red on her cheek and arms. The last one was violently scribbled black.

Elizabeth sat down beside Fries. "Can you explain these to me?"

He shook his head.

"Please?" she asked.

He didn't respond. Finally, he spoke. "That's my mother." He pointed to the woman.

"Your foster mother before you came here?"

He nodded. "That's a belt."

"What's the red?"

"Blood."

"Is it your blood?"

He nodded.

"Did someone hit you with it?"

He nodded.

"Your foster father?"

He nodded again.

"What is the black picture?"

"That's the closet."

"Are you inside the closet?"

He nodded.

"Can you get out of the closet?"

He shook his head.

Elizabeth didn't say anything for a while. "Can I keep these?"

He nodded.

"Thank you. We're having supper in a few minutes. So finish this drawing and then put your things away. You can keep the crayons and paper in your desk."

When Elizabeth had the opportunity, she took the drawings down to the station and explained them to the social worker on Fries' case. The social worker kept the drawings and promised to deal with it.

Monday came and Elizabeth still did not feel comfortable with sending Fries to school. So she decided to do some schooling of her own. With the kids not at home and Jane working, Elizabeth didn't feel happy about leaving Fries on his own at home. She had no choice but to take him with her on her rounds.

Elizabeth knew that most of her clients would not mind a bit, but she was nervous about bringing Fries to Mr. Darcy's place. She decided to leave him in the van.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth seemed different today. She looked flustered and hurried as she set his tray. She dropped the fork and then the knife. Blushing she muttered an apology and went into the kitchen to wipe them clean. After he had everything he needed, she fidgeted for two minutes and then said, "Excuse me, I'm just going to go down to the van for a few minutes. I'll be back."

"Why?" he asked.

Elizabeth looked taken aback that he asked her. Eventually she replied, "One of my children is in the van and I don't like leaving him alone for so long. I'm just going to check on him."

"Why don't you bring him in? It must be cold outside."

"Oh. Well, if you wouldn't mind."

She left and a few minutes later returned with a small boy holding tightly onto her hand. "Mr. Darcy, I'd like you to meet Fries. Fries, this is Mr. Darcy."

"His name is Fries?"

"Yes, sir. He picked the name out himself."

"What's his real name?"

"That is his real name."

William did not understand but decided not to pursue it. He had come to the verdict that Elizabeth was insane.

Elizabeth told Fries to sit in the corner and mind himself. William was surprised when Fries did as he was told. William watched as he sat down with a notebook and crayons.

William took his time eating so he could keep watching Fries. In spite of himself, William was fascinated with the child. He rarely ever came in contact with any children, and since he was bedridden, he never saw anyone besides the maid, his cousin, his best friend, and Elizabeth.

When he had finished, Elizabeth washed the dishes, packed them up and hurried out the door with Fries holding onto her hand. William was sorry to see them go.

Elizabeth woke in the middle of the night. She glanced over at the row of baby monitors sitting on her bedstand. The crying came from Belle's monitor. Elizabeth got up and put her robe and slippers on. She silently walked down the hall to Belle's room.

Belle was huddled in the corner of her room, whimpering and sniffling. Elizabeth instantly went over and enveloped her in her arms.

"What's wrong, sweetie?" Elizabeth asked.

Belle didn't talk for several minutes. Elizabeth waited patiently while she stroked, kissed and soothed the child.

Finally, Elizabeth asked her again to explain what was wrong.

Hesitantly, Belle asked, "Am I the Devil's child?"

"What?" exclaimed Elizabeth. "Wherever did you get that idea?"

Belle sniffled. "Some of the kids at school said that black people were the Devil's children."

Elizabeth hugged her closer, thinking through in her mind how she was going to explain this. "Baby... sometimes people are afraid of things they don't understand. Your classmates don't understand why you look different. You don't look uglier or worse, you are just different, special and unique from the others. So when people are afraid of different things or people, they say mean things that aren't true."

"They're scared of me?"

"In a way, yes. They don't know why your skin is brown and theirs is a peachy color."

"If they're peachy and I'm brown, why are they called 'white' and I'm called 'black'?"

Elizabeth gave a short laugh. "I don't know. To simplify things, I guess."

"Simpfy?"

"Simplify. To make things simple or easy. Those names go back a long time. It's just what people say. It's not always a mean thing."

"But calling me the Devil's child is."

"Yes, it is. But you know what? You can be happy in knowing that you are God's child. Each and every one of us is a son or daughter of God. Blacks and whites."

"If God is my daddy then who is your daddy?"

"God is my daddy, too. He made each and every one of us, so we all have the same father."

"Oh."

"And you can keep that thought to yourself all the time. When kids say mean things, you just remember that you are God's special daughter and those mean words don't have any power at all to hurt you. You turn the other cheek."

"Turn my cheek?"

"You love them back when they try to hurt you."

"I have to love mean people?"

"Of course. Because they are also God's children. So they are your brothers and sisters."

Belle sighed. "It's hard loving them back."

"I know, sweetie, but when you do, it gives you a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Will you try it for me?"

Belle nodded.

"Now! Are you ready to get back into bed?"

Belle nodded and scrambled under the covers. Elizabeth leaned down and kissed her. "I love you, Belle."

"I love you, Lizzy."

"Do you mind if I use your phone? I have an important phone call to make."

"Sure."

William couldn't help eavesdropping on her conversation.

"Hello? This is Elizabeth Bennet. I want to speak to Mrs. Saunders. I'll hold."

A couple of minutes later, she continued. "Hello, Mrs. Saunders, this is Elizabeth Bennet. ...I'm doing fine, thank you. ...Last night I had a talk with Belle. ...It seems some of her classmates are calling her the Devil's child because she is black. ...I understand you might not have heard it, but I was hoping you could make sure nothing of this kind ever happens again. I don't exactly want to have another conversation about why kids hate black people. ...I'm not sure if you understand Belle. She was abused physically and mentally before I took her under my care. It is my goal to make sure she grows up to be a strong young woman unafraid of the world and her role in it. This will not be helped by a feeling of inferiority due to her skin color because kids in her second grade class said she was the Devil's child! ...Thank you. ...Have a nice day."

Elizabeth slammed down the phone, stood there with her hands on her hips, holding her breath for a few seconds, before letting it out in a long, frustrated sigh. She looked over at William, who guiltily looked away.

"Are you finished?" she asked, putting a false smile on her face.

William nodded.

"Sorry about that. I won't make those kind of phone calls here again. I didn't know she could be so... so..."

"Racist?"

Elizabeth stopped and looked at him blankly for a minute. William looked away.

"Yes," she said in a dreamy voice. She laughed a short laugh. "I suppose that might have been it." She paused for a long moment, holding his plate above his head. Then she asked, "Do you think I should transfer Belle out of that class then?"

William, shocked to have been asked such a question, gave his opinion anyway. She asked for it. "If something of the sort happens again, then you should move Belle."

Elizabeth seemed to regain herself. "Yes. Yes, you're right. If there is a second occurrence, I'll transfer her." She moved away to wash the dishes.

William watched her keenly.

The following day Elizabeth had to bring Fries in once again. "I'm sorry, Mr. Darcy, do you mind if he waits while I'm here?"

"No," replied William, glad to see the child once more.

He enjoyed the opportunity to watch the lad again. Elizabeth had cleaned up his things when her pager rang. She looked at it and immediately asked him, "May I use your phone again? I'm terribly sorry. I wouldn't ask if it weren't an emergency."

"Yes."

William eavesdropped again while watching Fries draw his pictures.

"Elizabeth Bennet. What's up? ...Well I can't very well come while I have Fries with me. ...Yes, he's in the next room. ...No, I can't. Jane's not home today. ...He's not ready to go to school, yet. ...Can't this wait? ...You tell me what to do."

At this point, William decided he could step in. "Elizabeth," he called.

Irritated, she put a hand over the receiver and asked, "What?"

"Fries can stay here with me if it would help."

"Here? With you?"

William lifted an eye indicating he did not approve of her tone of voice.

She must have been desperate because she schooled her face and said, "That would be a tremendous help. Are you sure you wouldn't mind?"

William shook his head.

She spoke to the person on the other end of the line. "Never mind. I can leave Fries with one of my clients. I'll be there in about twenty-five minutes."

She hung up and grabbed her things.

"Fries, I have some important business to take care of. Will you be good and stay here until I get back?"

Fries looked at her with clear brown eyes and nodded.

"Don't give Mr. Darcy any trouble. I love you," she kissed his cheek and then left the apartment.

William watched awkwardly as Fries turned back to his drawings. After five minutes of silence, William's curiosity got the better of him.

"C-can I see what you're drawing?"

Fries stood up and carried his drawing book over to the bed. Without any warning, Fries climbed onto the bed and sat next to William's torso, offering the book to him.

Hesitantly, William took the book from him, flipped it to the beginning. He began looking at each drawing. They weren't any good from an artist's standpoint, but for all William knew, this could be really good for a child his age. As he looked at the picture, William began to like it more and more. It had a sense of simplicity and honesty he felt he couldn't find in a true work of 'art'.

Fries suddenly took the book from him and turned it longways.

Hmmm, well that put it into perspective. William asked him, "Will you explain them to me?"

"It's a ladybug in a garden."

"Is this a flower, then?"

Fries nodded and then turned the page and righted the book. "This is Rosie."

"Is Rosie a ballerina?"

Fries nodded.

"Does she live in the same house as you?"

He nodded.

One by one, they went over each picture. By the end, Fries was talking more. When William had seen each drawing, Fries proceeded to start a new one.

"What are you drawing now?"

"You."

"Me?"

Fries nodded. William was flattered. He couldn't remember ever having his likeness taken before. It didn't take but about ten minutes to finish the drawing. By then, Fries had exhausted the entertainment out of that amusement. He turned to William for subsequent fun.

"What do you want to do now?"

"I don't know."

"Do you want to play a game?"

"Sure."

"It's called I Spy. You say 'I Spy with my little eye something blue.' And then I have to guess what it is. Okay?"

"Okay. I Spy with my little eye something yellow."

"It's inside this room, right?"

"Oh, no it isn't. Does it have to be in this room?"

"Well if you see it, it has to be in this room."

"You're absolutely right. I'm sorry. I'll try again. I Spy with my little eye something brown."

"The bed?"

"Nope."

"The frame?"

"Nope."

"That thing over there?"

"That's my file drawer. No, that's not it."

Fries frowned thoughtfully and looked around the room. "Umm, I give up."

"You give up? Already? You haven't started to fight yet, my lad!"

A small smile appeared on Fries' face. William was surprised. Come to think of it, he hadn't seen him smile before.

"Give me a clue."

"Fine, I'll give you a clue. You can't see it yourself."

"I can't? Is it in this room?"

"Yep. I can see it plainly, but you can't."

This really puzzled Fries. He looked around and then stopped, realizing he wouldn't be able to see it anyway. He thought hard, the frown of concentration appearing again. Finally he said, "I give up."

William reached over and ruffled Fries' hair.

"My hair!"

"You got it."

"That's not fair."

"Why not? I Spy it with my little eye, don't I?"

"You're rhyming."

"Didn't you know I was a poet?"

"A po-wit?"

"Sure."

"What's a poet?"

"Tell you what, go over to the bookshelf, and you see that red book with the gold on it?" Fries nodded. "Bring that over to me."

Fries scrambled off the bed and returned cradling the beautiful book in his hands. William took the book and waited for Fries to scramble back up onto the bed beside him.

"This is a book of poetry written by old classical poets like Cowper, Donne and Wordsworth. But you don't know who they are yet. Poetry takes words and rhymes them, gives them rhythm and patterns. It makes words beautiful."

"Are you going to read me some?"

"Don't you want to read them yourself?"

"No."

"...Okay. I'll read you a few. Let's see. Here's one that rhymes.

'Something inspires the only cow of late
To make no more of a wall than an open gate,
And think no more of wall-builders than fools.
Her face is flecked with pomace and she drools
A cider syrup. Having tasted fruit,
She scorns a pasture withering to the root.
She runs from tree to tree where lie and sweeten
The windfalls spiked with stubble and worm-eaten.
She leaves them bitten when she has to fly.
She bellows on a knoll against the sky.
Her udder shrivels and the milk goes dry.'"*

"I don't understand it," said Fries, after William had finished reading the Frost poem.

"Hmm. I think it may be a bit beyond your age. We should have started with The Cat in the Hat."

William put the book down and turned again to Fries for amusement.

"It's my turn to Spy."

"All right."

"I Spy with my little eye... something white."

"The ceiling."

Fries shook his head.

"Your eyes? My eyes?"

Again, Fries shook his head.

"The pages in the book? The sheets? The door? The painting? The clouds outside?"

"No, it has to be inside."

"I give up."

Fries giggled. "Your pillow!"

"Oh no! You won."

After minute of Fries laughing at William, William asked, "Where did you get your name from?"

"I picked it?"

"Why did you pick Fries?"

"Because I like French Fries."

"Me too. But I haven't had them in a very long time."

"Why?"

"No one has brought me any."

"I'll bring you some."

"You will?"

"I'll ask 'Lizbeth to let me bring you some."

"Do you like Elizabeth?"

Fries nodded vigorously.

"What kind of things do you do with her?"

"Umm... she plays with me. On the piano. She lets me draw. ...She hugs me a lot and... she lets me go with her."

"Elizabeth plays the piano?"

Fries nodded. "She's beautiful."

William smiled slightly as his unintentional meaning.

"She reads to me a lot."

"What kind of books does she read to you?"

"Big books. About things."

"What kind of things?"

"Umm. About animals and people and the sea."

A movement caught his eye. There stood Elizabeth by the door to his room. How long had she been standing there? The look on her face was one of amazement.

Fries looked at her with obvious delight at seeing her again. Elizabeth walked over to the bed and kissed the top of Fries' head. "We're going now. Thanks for being so patient with me. Were you good for Mr. Darcy?"

Fries nodded.

"Run and get into the van. I'll come in a couple of minutes."

Fries gathered his things. He tore out his drawing of William and gave it to him. "Thank you, so much," William said, feeling more awkward with Elizabeth watching. "Good-bye."

Fries waved and then went down to the van, leaving the room in silence. Elizabeth just stood staring at the door Fries left through. She looked dazed and astonished. Finally, she slowly turned and looked down at the bed.

"I don't believe it. He... he was talking to you."

"Oh yes. Quite."

"He never talks to anyone."

"Really?"

Elizabeth slowly sank down onto the edge of William's bed. "How did you do it?"

"I didn't do anything."

Elizabeth just shook her head in bewilderment. Pulling herself back together, she asked him, "Do you want me to come back in a couple of hours or do you want me to just make something here and leave it for you?"

"A sandwich is fine. I don't want to keep Fries waiting."

*"Cow in The Field" by Robert Frost

Chapter 3

Posted on Wednesday, 20 June 2001

"I just couldn't believe it, Jane! I mean, I've known both Fries and Mr. Darcy about the same amount of time, but I had never heard either of them speak so... so... so much! And Mr. Darcy seemed to enjoy Fries' presence and vice versa but as soon as Fries was gone, Mr. Darcy reverted back to his old, grouchy self." Elizabeth gave a short laugh. "I must have looked like I saw a flying elephant. I was so amazed."

Jane patted her sister's head lovingly. "Maybe you should leave Fries with Mr. Darcy. It might be a mutual benefit. If Fries talks with Mr. Darcy, that's terrific and could lead to the breakthrough you've been searching for with Fries. And the boy has an effect on Mr. Darcy to cheer him up at least. It must be horribly tedious and mundane to lie in that bed all day, day in and day out with very little company."

"I don't understand why he doesn't have company. He must have some family. He's probably so grouchy he doesn't have any friends."

"Lizzy, that is unkind!"

"Oh, I know. But why is he so grouchy to me? Is it just me then? He just doesn't like me and so he's perfectly charming to everyone else?"

"I doubt that. What reason would he have to dislike you?"

"I don't know. Because I feed him? He has some Freudian conflict with not being able to provide his own food."

"You're being silly."

"I know. You're right. Maybe I should leave the two of them together more. It certainly would help me out. I don't want to just yet, though. I'll leave the two of them together one more time to see if it wasn't just a fluke."

"Oh, I almost forgot. While you were gone a call came through from the social worker you gave Fries' drawings to."

"And?"

"I don't know. They only left their name and number."

"The suspense is killing me," Elizabeth exclaimed as she picked up the phone and walked off to call the social worker.

Three days later, Elizabeth came in looking harried. "Do you mind if I cooked dinner here? Jane didn't have a chance to cook last night so I've had to ad lib my way through the day."

"Sure."

"Is there anything in particular you want?"

"No."

"Oh, and do you mind if Fries came in? He's in the car."

"Sure."

Elizabeth left to fetch Fries. The boy came in holding a book and a drawing. Fries walked right up to William's bed and handed him the two objects. "Look. I drawed that for you and I brought a poem."

"You did? Thank you so much! Are you going to read the poem to me?"

Fries didn't need any more urging. He climbed onto the bed and settled into the crook of William's arm. Fries opened the book so William could see.

William could not help but smile when Fries slowly and carefully read, "The Cat and the Hat."

William watched as Fries slowly ran his finger over each of the words and read them out. William encouraged and helped out when it was needed, gently correcting his errors. Twenty minutes later, Elizabeth came in with a plate of hot food and a cup of milk.

"Move over, Fries, so I can put this on Mr. Darcy's lap."

Fries obediently moved out of the way. William began to eat in silence, feeling like a caged animal because of the two pairs of eyes watching him. Elizabeth seemed to sense her rudeness and turned her attention to Fries.

"Did you find that book in the library?"

Fries nodded.

"All by yourself?"

He nodded again.

"Did you read it to Mr. Darcy?"

He nodded again.

Elizabeth seemed to give up trying to get Fries to talk and simply occupied herself with washing dishes in the kitchen.

"Do you like it, Mister Darcy?"

"You can call me William."

"Okay. Did you like it, William?"

"I did, very much. And the next time you come, you can read me another book, okay?"

Fries nodded eagerly. "Okay."

As soon as William was finished, Elizabeth washed his dishes and left, taking Fries with her. William was more sorry to see them go than before.

William eagerly listened for the sound of Elizabeth coming in the door. She was late today! He wasn't that hungry, he was just anticipating talking to Fries again. For some reason he could not fathom, he really enjoyed the boy's company. Fries lightened up his horribly depressing, boring days.

Finally, he heard the door opening. He composed himself to look unexpectant. Elizabeth walked in without Fries. William tried not to look disappointed.

"Is Fries not with you today?" he asked nonchalantly.

"Well, I wanted to talk to you about him."

William wasn't sure to be worried or not. He waited for her to continue.

Elizabeth stood clasping and unclasping her hands. William suddenly realized she was only a couple of years younger than he was.

"I can't put Fries into school yet because he is so behind. His last foster family didn't send him to school. So he is seven years old with a math and reading level of a four-year-old. Fries is also not communicating with anyone. ...Or, rather, he wasn't. He won't talk with me, even. And not for my lack of trying." She paused. "You have managed to get through to him. I don't know how. I was wondering if you would be interested in tutoring him. We don't have to say it's tutoring per se. But if you could read with him and show him how to count and add and things like that, it would be a tremendous help." She paused again, thinking. Then she turned to him. "So? What do you think?"

William was shocked. He couldn't believe she was asking him this. He had never taught anyone in his life he could remember and certainly was not used to being around children. Surely Fries was no different with him than other people. And why him? He didn't try anything special. He voiced this opinion.

Elizabeth sighed and said, "I've thought hard about why he's opening up to you. And my educated guess would be that because you are... bedridden, you don't pose a threat to him. Wh-When I first took him under my care, he had been beaten by his foster father. It was the foster mother who finally called the police and was put into intensive care herself. So when he sees you, he knows he can always be safe just by getting out of reach of the bed." Elizabeth had a rueful, apologetic look on her face.

"Sooo... is he only going to talk to immobile people?"

"No, but he'll start learning to trust people again with first you, then hopefully me and Jane and then children. Then slowly he'll start trusting more people. It'll take time and sometimes children in his condition are affected for the rest of their lives in some way. But he will be a lot better."

"I see."

"So are you willing to tutor him or not?"

"I'll do my best. I have no experience, so don't expect miracles."

"I don't expect them. But you'd be surprised at how often they happen anyway. I'll provide you with whatever materials you should need and... I'm going to waiver your fees for my services in some small return. Is that agreeable to you?"

William nodded, barely understanding why and how.

Elizabeth gave him his lunch and then said, "I'll bring him starting tomorrow from when I give you lunch until I come back to give you supper. All right?"

He nodded.

The following day, Elizabeth walked in and saw Fries snuggled against William's side on the bed, his head resting on William's shoulder. William's face was one of embarrassment and awkwardness, but he didn't move for fear of waking the child. Elizabeth chuckled quietly. William was stuck with a sleeping babe, watching Sesame Street on the television no less.

"Is this a daily ritual you enjoy?"

William's face went a deeper red. "The remote control fell down the side of the bed. I thought I would start off showing him this show. I'd heard it was beneficial for children. But he fell asleep."

Elizabeth said before picking up the still sleeping Fries, "He's a little old for Sesame Street. But you could certainly learn how to teach from the show."

William was too uncomfortable to reply. Elizabeth took Fried down to the car so he could remain asleep. William and Elizabeth didn't speak while she gave him supper.

Everyday, Elizabeth brought Fries to William for tutoring. Fries had no knowledge he was being 'tutored'. He just made friends with William who had new and interesting activities everyday. Fries was a quick learner and William found he enjoyed teaching him. Elizabeth had to go through some red tape to allow this arrangement to continue, for William had no credits in teaching. She didn't even know what he had ever done for a job.

As a result of the arrangement, Elizabeth spent less time with Mr. Darcy and more time the other children while Fries was with him. When Fries was home, Elizabeth made a special effort to get Fries to talk about his visits.

On top of Fries' daily lessons, Elizabeth let him watch Rosie's ballet classes sometimes as well as start taking piano lessons. He never again expressed an interest in coming to DM's football games.

Time passed and progress was made. Fries talked to more people, but always remained a quiet, introspective boy.

Finally, one day William informed Elizabeth that he was moving to his aunt's house and would no longer be able to tutor Fries. Elizabeth was truly sorry for this. Fries had improved immensely with William. She now felt he was able to attend a small school with some extra attention and help. In fact, it would be better for him, for he should interact with other children his age.

William was even more sorry than Elizabeth that he was leaving. He had grown really attached to Fries. But he had no choice in the matter. His aunt was almost kidnapping him from his present location and carting him off to the 'countryside' to improve his health and spirits--and to, no doubt, fall in love with his cousin.

William asked to be alone with Fries the day before he was supposed to leave. William had also requested that he be the one to let Fries know he was leaving.

"Come here, Fries."

"William! I brought you some French fries today."

William tried to smile, and took the fries from his hand. Unable to tell him the sad news yet, William patted his bed, signaling that Fries should climb up and sit by him.

Fries eagerly climbed onto the bed and settled into the crook of William's arm. Together, they shared the French fries in silence.

Finally William pulled the courage together to say what he needed to say. It was one of the hardest things he had ever done.

"Fries, you've learned a lot with me."

"I did?"

"Uh huh. And now it's time for you to join other kids your age and learn more. I can't teach you anything more."

"I have to go to school? Why can't I stay here with you?"

"I'm... I'm not going to be here anymore."

"Why not? Are you going to Heaven?"

"No, why do you say that?"

"My mother said she was going away for a little while and now she's in Heaven."

"No, I'm just moving in with my aunt."

"Where is your aunt?"

"She lives in the countryside about five hours drive from here."

"Seven hours?"

"Yep."

"When will you be coming back?"

"I don't think I will be coming back."

"Never?"

"I don't know."

Fries' face fell. "I don't want you to go," Fries stated simply.

"I know. I don't want to go either. But it'll be good for both of us. You'll have a new teacher and classmates."

"What about you?"

"I'll have someone to help and take care of me."

"I'll do that."

William laughed a little. "You can't do it. When you're older maybe you can."

Elizabeth knocked quietly on the door. "It's time to go, baby."

Fries looked miserable. He turned and buried his face in William's shirt. "I don't want to go," William heard him say.

It was torture for William to gently push him away. Elizabeth held her hand out to Fries. He got out of the bed and took her hand. With the saddest look in his eyes, Fries looked back at William and then silently walked out of the room.

William would have said 'Good bye', but he was unable to, his throat choked up.

Three years passed. Several of the children in the Bennet's house were taken by loving families but though Fries received two offers, he chose to stay with Elizabeth and Jane. William wrote to Fries at first, but with only one side of a relationship able to write very well, it soon petered out. Fries succeeded at school but never managed to make any friends. It didn't seem to bother him at all.

"Elizabeth, why don't you come out with me tonight? You need a break."

"I can't leave the house empty."

"It will hardly be empty."

"No, I meant without a baby-sitter."

"Storm is here. She's upstairs doing her homework or practicing her Tae Kwon Do in the garage. She's quite capable of holding down the fort, especially with the young ones asleep."

"I don't know, Jane. I feel awkward about it."

"You shouldn't. You're such a worrisome mother hen."

"I think I have more reason to worry than most mother hens. My chicks have already been hurt by the foxes before."

"Come on, Elizabeth. You need to relax once in a while. And it has been quite a while since you did anything relaxing without the kids."

"I like being with the kids, thank you very much."

"I know you do. But it is good for you to get away once in a while. Please Lizzy. Charles will have his friend there and it would be so much better if he didn't feel like a third wheel."

"Hold on, hold on! Are you setting me up with a blind date?"

"No, not exactly. Lizzy, really. Could you try it for once?"

"As soon as he knows I have eight children already he'll be out the door."

"I'm not asking you to marry him. I'm asking you to have dinner with Charles, his friend and I. Is that so much to ask?"

Elizabeth gave in. "All right, I'll go. But I haven't anything appropriate to wear."

"Nonsense. Your cream wrap skirt and red top will do fine. We're not going to some really fancy place. Go and change. We have to go soon."

"Isn't he picking you up?"

"No, he's meeting us at the restaurant."

Elizabeth quickly got ready for the outing. (She refrained from calling it a 'date' in her mind). She talked to Storm and then the rest of the children still awake, warning them to go to bed when Storm told them and to obey her. She made sure she had her cell phone and then told Jane she was ready.

They arrived at the restaurant a little late. Their two dates had already sat down at their table so Elizabeth and Jane walked over to join them.

Elizabeth walked around the table and saw to her great surprise, William Darcy. They stared at each other in astonishment until Jane said, "Elizabeth, this is Charles Bingley."

Elizabeth turned her attention to the man sitting at the table. He held out his hand she shook, giving him a faint smile. She felt odd standing when the two men were sitting.

Charles said, "I'm very pleased to meet you, Elizabeth. This is my best friend-"

"William Darcy. Yes, we've met," she said with a small smile. "He used to be a client of mine and was kind enough to single-handedly teach one of my children."

Charles looked in surprise at his friend. "I had no idea you did that? When were you their client?"

"When I was in bed for seven months."

"Oh yes. I recall. I was trapped in Europe and could not come to your aid. You taught one of their children?"

William laughed shortly. "I wouldn't call it teaching, Charles. We just did things together."

"Oh."

The four of them ordered and then returned to conversation.

"I see you have improved, Mr. Darcy."

"In some ways, yes."

"Explain to me how you have eight children," said Charles. "You said Elizabeth would be better at explaining it than you."

"Eight?" asked William. In fear, he asked, "Some have left you?"

"Of course. I do not adopt all of these kids. Indeed, I'm not sure if I could. I've had quite a few go to decent, permanent homes."

"Is... is Fries still with you?" he asked hesitantly.

"Oh yes. He received two offers to go to a home, but refused them."

"H-how is he?"

"He's doing just fine, thanks to you. He is still quiet and shy, doesn't have any friends really, but is not unhappy in the least."

"Good," William said, relieved.

"I'm sorry, Charles. I was sidetracked. When our father died, he left us a large fortune and a huge mansion. Being only in our early twenties and never having been brought up with the wealth, we wanted to do something useful with our inheritance. I was a sociology major fresh out of college with wild and daring ideas for saving the world. I quickly learned I couldn't do it all, and the mansion was unused and falling into disrepair. So I started to turn it into a hostel for children needing a home. Over a couple of years, it turned into a home for particularly troubled children to recover in. When they have recovered from the shock and trauma, they can be adopted and/or transferred into another foster home. We've really become almost a small orphanage except that not all of our children are orphans."

"That is incredible," said Charles. "Where does the catering business come in?"

"Oh, that's another charitable thing we do on the side. Jane cooks meals and I deliver them to people in need of good meals but who can't afford expensive catering. Clients only have to pay for the food."

Soon, Charles and Jane began to talk with each other. Elizabeth found herself having to talk to William. She still felt awkward talking to him. He never seemed easy around her.

"Tell me more about Fries," he said.

Elizabeth smiled slightly. "He has excelled in schoolwork. He prefers drawing still, but paints as well. He has learned the piano and is still taking lessons. When not occupied with those things or reading, he just watches people. He doesn't talk, just watches with those brown eyes of his."

William smiled wistfully.

"He still remembers you, you know."

"He does?"

Elizabeth nodded. "You're welcome to come over and visit him if you want. I'm sure he'd love to see you again. Are you just passing through?"

"No, actually. I moved in with Charles this month. He's rescued me from my aunt's."

"You've been at your aunt's house ever since you left here?"

William nodded. "It wasn't the best arrangement but I didn't really have a choice."

"I don't see why."

"There were complications," he said vaguely.

The evening passed pleasantly. Elizabeth found she did relax a little more than she did when she was around the kids. At 10:30 she excused herself to call Storm and make sure everything was all right.

She came back and said there was no answer. Jane could see Elizabeth was too worried to enjoy the rest of the evening. With an apologetic look at Charles, Jane said they would be going. They said goodbye and again Elizabeth found it odd that the gentlemen did not stand.

It was arranged that Elizabeth should bring Fries to William and Charles' apartment for an afternoon. Saturday was the most convenient for Elizabeth's busy schedule. So the following Saturday, William apprehensively awaited their arrival. He had carefully placed himself at the table, playing solitaire while he waited.

Finally, he heard a knock on the door. "Come in," he called. Elizabeth entered and tentatively smiled a greeting. Behind her, walked in Fries. He had grown so much! William could not say anything for a full minute. Shyly, Fries came forward, and said, "I brought you some French fries."

William somehow sensed Fries' need of reassurance. He needed to know William still cared... was still his friend. William smiled, trying his damnedest not to cry.

"My favourite," he managed to say. He beckoned him over to the table.

"Have a good time, you two. I'll be back in a couple of hours," said Elizabeth, and then left the apartment.

When she had left, Fries sat down across from William and said, "Watcha doin'?"

"I'm playing solitaire. Do you know how to play?"

Fries shook his head.

"Come round here, and I'll teach you."

William spent the next two hours teaching Fries several card games (not gambling ones, though) and eating the French fries. They talked about the time they had spent apart--not too much, just to get it over with so they could start their friendship anew.

When Elizabeth returned, William was showing Fries how to play Rummy. Elizabeth raised an eyebrow and asked, "You're not teaching him poker, are you?"

Fries looked to William, and asked eagerly, "Can you teach me how to play poker?"

William laughed, pulled at the forelock of hair always in his eyes, and said, "Not until you're 21."

"Come on, Fries. It's time to go."

"Will I see you again?" Fries asked William.

"Definitely."

Jane begged and pleaded and finally persuaded Elizabeth to come out to dinner again with her, Charles and William. Elizabeth didn't see why she was so needed since William never talked to her anyway unless it was about Fries. This evening was no different. William ate silently and would very occasionally add something to the general conversation. Elizabeth still felt a twinge of annoyance and dislike towards him. She could never really dislike him since he befriended Fries so steadfastly. Elizabeth valued Fries' judgment so highly that she knew William must not be too bad. But she had never seen evidence of this shown to anyone other than Fries. But Elizabeth still felt she did not know the man that well.

Elizabeth vowed she wouldn't go out with him again by the end of the evening. Jane who sensed Elizabeth's annoyance and pique, tactfully suggested they be heading home since the children were on their own again.

Elizabeth usually dealt with children before adolescence. However Storm never left the Bennet household. She had consequently challenged Elizabeth and Jane's skills of mothering to the very limits. The fact that both sisters were still younger than age 30 became a factor. Storm could have been Elizabeth's younger sister. It sometimes helped because Elizabeth could point out to Storm that she had been a teenager not long ago. Elizabeth did her very best to understand Storm, but most importantly, to listen. She treated the girl as an adult with respect, but also understood she could not be expected to handle full responsibilities like an adult and was still a child in many ways. Storm still found ways to test the limits. Elizabeth, with no role model to follow, often worried she was messing up Storm's life. She often felt she was inadequate for the task of bringing up Storm to adulthood. Storm was the first child she had kept to this age. After all was said and done, Storm respected Elizabeth for what she did, and when her friends were getting into less than legal activities, Storm would ultimately think of how disappointed Jane and Elizabeth would be. She would lose their respect, which she valued highly. In school, she did try if only to please them. Storm's conscience guided her down the straight path.

When Storm turned sixteen, Elizabeth and Jane bought her a sturdy, used car in return for her help with transporting the younger ones to activities. This allowed the sisters a little more time to maneuver.

William heard the knock on the door. "Come in," he called.

The visitor tried to open it, but the chain lock prevented them. William realized his mistake and went over to unlock it. He backed up and was surprised to see Elizabeth standing there instead of Fries.

Elizabeth's look of utter shock was unmistakable. She was staring. William backed up some more. "What?" he said sharply.

"Y-you're in a..."

"A wheelchair. Yeah, so? Haven't you ever seen a guy in a wheelchair before?"

He turned around and wheeled into the living room.

Elizabeth, still trying to recover from her surprise, managed to say, "I didn't know you used one." She went through in her head all the times she had ever seen William, and realized she had never once seen him standing or walking. That was why he had never stood at dinner and why he was always behind the kitchen table waiting for Fries. He couldn't walk?

Chapter 4

Posted on Wednesday, 27 June 2001

"How long have you used one?"

"Since a couple of years ago. Didn't you know?" his voice still held deep bitterness and his back was still facing her.

"N-no. I... I had no idea."

"I thought my cousin told you, or at least Charles, Fries or Jane."

"No. No one told me."

"Yeah, well. Now you know. So pity me from a distance and leave me alone."

William waited for her to leave, listening for the sound of the closing door. It didn't come.

Elizabeth walked around to face him. "Much as I would like to oblige you, I'm afraid I have been sent here on a mission. Fries is unwell today and did not in the least want to miss meeting you. He only remained in bed on the condition that I come and take his place."

"You don't have to stay."

"I can't break a promise I made to Fries."

"Well what do you suggest we do?" he challenged her.

"When was the last time you went outside?"

"I don't remember."

"Then let's go out."

"Where?"

"Just along to the lake a couple of roads from here."

"Fine." William got his jacket and then led the way out of the apartment, locking the door behind him and leaving a note to Charles just in case he came home while his roommate was out.

At first they were silent. It took William considerably more effort to wheel himself along than it took Elizabeth to walk. She wasn't sure if she should offer to push him. Finally she decided that his abominable pride would be too hurt if she did offer, so she walked uncomfortably by his side until they reached the park. Once there, Elizabeth found a pleasant grassy spot and sat down, immediately picking up a blade of grass to shred in her discomfort and awkwardness.

"What am I supposed to do now?" William asked. "Sit on the ground with you?"

"If you want," she replied.

"How do you expect me to do that?"

"Oh, I'm sure you could sit down here if you wanted to. Your upper body must be strong enough."

William didn't move. They sat in silence looking at the lake and the people moving around it with children, friends or dogs. Finally, William asked, "What's wrong with Fries?"

"He just has a fever. I kept him from school yesterday but he's still on the mend."

"Send him my love and wishes."

Elizabeth restrained herself for a couple of minutes then splurted out, "What is it that you don't like about me? I don't understand why you're a totally different person to Fries!"

William was stunned. How long had she wanted to ask that? Finally, he replied, "It's not you."

Elizabeth waited for further explanation but none came. "What do you mean it's not me? Who is it then? Do you dislike my sister Jane so you take it out on me?"

"No, it's nothing personal. I don't... get along with people."

"Then how come you're so great with Fries?"

"I don't know. I can't explain it."

"Is it all children, then? Do you have a bond only with children?"

"I don't know, Fries is the only child I've been around and gotten to know."

"Well... do you think you could try and be pleasant to me?"

William shrugged.

"Why are you antagonistic to grown ups? Is it something to do with-"

"Don't."

"What?"

"Don't analyze me, I don't want to be talking to a psychologist."

"I'm not a psychologist."

"But you sound like one."

"Fine. Can you think of a subject we could converse over with civility? ...Besides Fries."

William thought about it for a minute. Finally he asked, "Why do you run the foster home?"

Elizabeth gave a short laugh. "That's a short question with a long answer."

"We have a while. It's not like I have anything else to do."

"I grew up with my mother and stepfather. I have three younger sisters. I hated it. I was forced to call my stepfather dad, when he never ever treated me like a daughter. Neither he nor my mother ever loved me, and she pretty much admitted so to my face. The one thing I craved throughout my childhood was love. Mother liked Jane at least because she was beautiful, but still never acted like a mother should. My stepfather was an ex marine and would be abusive to us at times. My mother would only backhand us after fifth grade and we were too old to get spanked on the behind. My stepfather would slap us so hard there would be finger marks still on our cheeks. I wasn't allowed to go anywhere, didn't have a car to get there anyway, and so, in short, my childhood was miserable."

"What about your father? Wasn't he the one with the money?"

"Yes, he was. He also had married and my stepmother in no shape or form wanted to be raising children. So father was pretty useless. We never saw him, only heard from him occasionally, and never knew he was rich. Neither did my real mother, otherwise she never would have divorced him."

"So how does this connect to the foster home?"

"Well...I worked my butt off to get a scholarship to college, I left and vowed never to return to the house again. My mother was relieved to see me go at last, too. So I went off to college, and worked my way through to a college degree. Then my father died and left everything, all the wealth and mansions and stuff we never knew he had, to Jane and I. I still don't understand his reasoning for it. My younger sisters were furious and after we said they weren't getting a penny of it, they refused to speak to us again. My mother instantly tried to become my best friend, but I shoved her back into the mud. Jane and I both wanted to do something useful with the wealth, but it took a couple of failures to realize the best way we could use it. And so now I try and give other children the loving home I never had."

"So you analyze yourself, too, huh?" he asked.

"No, one does not have to be, or go to, a psychologist to know that something was missing from my childhood and I want to give it to other children."

"How do you know how to bring up children if you weren't brought up right yourself?"

"I guess I'll have to say trial and error. How does any mother know how to raise a child if she never had any parents? You learn. You try things and if they don't work, you try other things. I have learned, after so many children in my care, some of the tricks of the trade."

"Do you like what you do?"

"Oh, I love it."

"Are you ever going to get married and have kids of your own?"

"I doubt it. I can't seem to get a date, let alone a husband. The number one turn off for a man is learning that the woman already has eight children."

"Don't you explain to them that they're foster children?"

"It doesn't seem to make a difference."

"Do you want children of your own?"

"I've dreamt of it like any woman has, but I don't think I will. There are too many children without loving families in this world to bring in any more. I'd rather adopt."

"Have you ever adopted any of the foster children that came through?"

"No, not officially. But Storm has been in my care for over five years and Fries has had two very nice offers of adoption that he turned down, so he might be with me for a while. So by default, I might have a few children I can claim to be mine. Have you ever thought of adopting Fries?"

William was surprised by this query. "Me? Adopt Fries?"

"Sure. He'd probably agree to it."

"But I don't know the first thing about raising a child."

"I didn't when I first started."

"I don't think I'd be allowed to anyway. I don't have an income large enough."

"What do you do?"

"Nothing. I live off my insurance and social security."

"Oh, yes, that would be a barrier to your adopting anyone. So what do you do all day if you don't have a job?"

"Nothing. I help around the apartment. I've learned how to cook in the oven, since I can't really reach the stove without burning myself. I keep the place clean- Charles is horribly untidy- and do other odd things."

"Aren't you terribly bored all day?"

William shrugged. "One gets used to the slow life. I did spend ten months in bed. At first it was torture, but after a while, you learn to sleep a lot and twiddle your thumbs."

"You could do things if you wanted."

"Like what?"

"You can always get a job if you were willing. If you don't think you need to, you could volunteer your time. There are plenty of places who could use your help. It just depends on your interest. Humanity, the environment, politics, or the community. Just search around the web for things that interest you and you could get passionate about."

"How do I volunteer there, then?"

"You call up a place and ask them if they could use someone like you. If they say no, that's great, find someone who really needs you."

"What if I end up not liking it?"

"Then try again to find something you will like doing. You could always split your time between two organizations, too. Oh bother! I'm going to be late picking up Carrie from swimming. Do you need help getting home or are you all right here?"

"No, I'll stick around."

"Send my regards to Charles. It was nice chatting with you."

William nodded and then said good bye. He watched Elizabeth walk towards the road and then turned his attention back to the lake.

"Hold still!"

Fries watched silently.

"Whatcha doin'?" asked Rowena.

"What are you doing, not 'whatcha'."

"What are you doin'?"

"Doing. I am braiding Morgana's hair while it's wet so it will dry wavy."

"Cool! Will you do that to me?"

"What do you say?"

"Please?"

"If you take your shower, yes I will."

She took off for the shower, only to find it occupied by Storm.

Rowena came back to Elizabeth, who turned Morgana's head forward. "Stop turning your head," she said for the third time.

"Lizzy, Storm's in the bathroom."

"Well you'll just have to wait your turn."

The evening chaos had only just begun. It was always a big effort to get all the children to go to bed. Forms of bribery usually were required, like braiding hair, reading stories, and promises of activities the next morning. Fries was the easiest child. He rarely ever said anything, never resisted going to bed, and even helped Elizabeth and Jane with some of the young ones. Tonight he just watched. Inside, he felt excited, but he didn't show it. Tomorrow he would be going to visit William.

Fries looked forward to his visits to William. William treated him normal. Like he was an average boy. William was his friend, not his grown up mentor or his social worker, or his foster mother. And tomorrow, he would be going to his first concert. It was a symphony. Elizabeth had taken him shopping to get some nice clothes to wear to it. William had promised good seats. He wanted to get to bed early so he would be rested for it tomorrow evening.

Elizabeth noticed Fries standing off to the side. She smiled at him. Fries walked over to her. Despite the noise from the other children, Elizabeth asked him quietly, "Are you all ready for bed?"

He nodded.

"Give Jane and I a kiss and go off to bed."

Fries leaned down and kissed Elizabeth's cheek. Elizabeth dropped a piece of Morgana's hair to wrap it around Fries' waist. "I love you," she said and kissed him on his cheek.

Fries smiled at her. "Love you, too."

"Go on. Get a good night's sleep. I'll come in later to tuck you in."

Fries went off to find Jane, while Elizabeth turned her attention to Morgana's long brown hair.

Storm came out of the shower and Rowena eagerly took her turn in the bathroom.

Elizabeth heard shouts in one of the rooms. She handed Morgana two pieces of hair to hold onto while she went to investigate the noise. In Robin's room, she found he and Harry in a deathlock.

"Stop it, you two! This instant!"

"He took Chewie!"

"I did not! Let go!"

Elizabeth pried the two young boys apart. She roughly sat Robin on his bed and Harry on the deskchair. "What is going on?" she asked.

"Robin took Chewie," Harry accused.

"I did not! I haven't seen Chewbaca since yesterday."

"That's cuz you have it."

"Do not!"

"Do too!"

"Stop it. Harry, have you looked everywhere for him? Is he down the side of your bed, in the play room, out in the garden?"

"I don't know," he whined.

"You should not assume Robin has taken Chewbaca. Go and look for him. No, actually, I want you to go to bed right now."

"But what about Chewie?"

"We can find him in the morning. Go on. Now."

Harry opened his mouth to protest again, but the look on Elizabeth's stern face stopped him. He pouted and left Robin's room.

Elizabeth turned to Robin. "Robin, did you take Chewie?"

"No, Beth, I didn't. Honest!"

"All right. But I want you to help Harry look for him in the morning. Now have you brushed your teeth? Have you washed your face? Okay, then. Into bed."

Elizabeth tucked him in and kissed him goodnight.

"Lizzy!!" Elizabeth heard Morgana calling. Remembering she had left the girl holding her half-finished hair, Elizabeth hurried back to Morgana's room.

William looked into the mirror putting on his tie. Charles crouched at his feet putting on his socks and shoes. "What are you going to see again?"

"It's Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. I thought I would take him to something he would be sure to like."

Charles laughed. "I don't think there's much chance of him falling asleep at the end of that one!"

William grinned, smoothing the tie and tightening it.

"You really like this lad, don't you?"

"You're only just realizing this?"

"Why are you so attached to him?"

"I can't explain it. It's so exhilarating to have him look up to me like he does. And at the same time, I can laugh at things with him like I would with you. He's so special. I feel silly, but I can't explain it."

"Don't feel silly. I think it's incredible."

"Are you ready to go?"

"Sure."

"Thanks for driving me."

"Are you kidding? It's no skin off my back! I get to spend the evening with Jane. I don't understand why you don't go out more often. You used to always go out."

"Exactly. I used to."

"So why don't you still go out more? I don't mind taking you places if that's what's stopping you."

"It's not that."

"So what is it?"

William stopped and faced him, bitterness in his face. "You want to know? Well before the accident everyone flocked around me, I was fine, I had friends, I had dates, I had a life. But when they found out I was crippled, I wasn't good enough for them. Remember Caroline? How she practically stalked me and would never leave me alone? I haven't heard from her since the accident. My condition has put everything into perspective. William Darcy the man was popular and happy, William Darcy the cripple is shunned and disdained."

"Good grief! You have got to do some soul searching! So what if they don't like you anymore? Move on. This is a perfect opportunity to find out who sees you for who you really are."

"Well, you and Fries are the only ones I have found."

"Come on! What about Jane? And Elizabeth?"

"They're different."

"How so?"

"They didn't know me as a healthy man."

"So? Neither did Fries. You're never going to make this into a solid argument. Anyway, we're going to be late. Let's argue in the car."

Once in the car, William didn't say anything. Charles left him to himself until they pulled up to the Bennet's mansion. Before getting out, Charles turned to William and said, "I think you're being an absolute fool. How are you going to lead a happy life if you're constantly letting this handicap defeat you? So what if your old acquaintances have shunned you. The rest of us are here now, and you're the only one who loses by pushing them away."

William refused to reply.

"And brighten up. This is a special night for Fries, remember."

"Don't go advising me about Fries."

"Whatever," replied Charles, getting out, realizing William was in a foul mood with him.

Charles went up to the front door and knocked. A minute later, William saw Elizabeth open the door. She smiled and greeted Charles, then went inside to reappear a couple of minutes later with Fries who was impeccably dressed in a suit. Elizabeth followed Charles and Fries to the car. As Fries got in, she said to William, "Thank you so much for taking Fries. Have a pleasant evening, and I will see you later on tonight."

She backed away and waved as the car pulled away from the mansion.

On the way to the concert hall, Charles did most of the talking since neither William nor Fries was inclined to talk. Half an hour later, they pulled up in front of the concert hall. Charles retrieved the wheelchair from the boot and set it down on the curb. Then he helped William into it while Fries stared in wonder around him at all the people and splendor of the night.

When William was situated, Charles said a cheery goodbye and drove back to the Bennet's mansion. William guided Fries into the luxurious foyer. The carving on the walls was so ornate it was nearly OTT. (over the top). A grand staircase swept upwards in front of them. People milled about in fine dress. Fries just gazed at everything in awe as he clutched onto William's wheelchair to keep from being separated. William couldn't help but smile at the boy's reaction. He moved forward and gave their tickets to the man standing there. He directed them up the stairs and to the right. William just calmly stared at him and said, "Is there some... alternative route I could take?"

The man flustered and stammered, "Oh, of course. Hold on one moment and I will fetch you some assistance."

A minute later an usher appeared to take them to an elevator. They moved out of the elevator when it had stopped and the usher guided them to a place where Fries could sit next to William.

While they waited for the concert to begin, William had Fries read the program to him, explaining words and terms he didn't know.

"William Darcy?!"

William turned to the speaker, and recognized Marcia Wilson. He had thought her a good friend before his accident. She had sent some flowers to the hospital, and that was the last he'd heard of her.

"Miss Wilson," he acknowledged coldly.

She laughed. "Oh no, dear. I'm Mrs. Kilpatrick now."

"Congratulations."

"How are you? I haven't seen you in ages."

"I'm well."

"It was really too bad about your accident."

William didn't reply.

"William," came a small voice and a tug at his elbow.

William looked back to Fries, who pointed to something in the program he didn't understand.

"In a minute," he replied quietly.

"Who's this?" asked Marcia.

"This is Fries, my protégé and best friend."

Fries peered cautiously round William's shoulder.

"Fries? What a funny name!" she laughed.

The lights dimmed signifying the beginning of the concert.

"I must go and find my husband. We must do lunch some time soon! Goodbye."

Within seconds, she was gone. William turned to face the stage, trying to keep the bitterness from showing in his face. Fries tentatively looked up at him. William smiled at him. "I'm sorry. Where were we?"

Soon the concert began. Fries eagerly watched the orchestra. The concert gave William time to think about what Charles had said earlier that evening. He thought about how miserable he tended to be these days. Maybe Charles was right. He should stop moping around the house and find something productive to do. Hadn't that been what Elizabeth advised him to do?

Through the whole concert, William sat and thought things through, making resolutions and plans. He decided to take Elizabeth's advice in working for some charitable organization. Problem was, there were too many to choose from. He would have to sift through them and find the right one for him.

By the last movement, William had sorted his life out. He mentally apologized to Beethoven for ignoring the music while he did so. But of course he paid attention to the last movement. Who couldn't? Fries, to William's surprise, hadn't fallen asleep in the concert. On the contrary, he had eagerly watched everything with keen eyes, listening to the myriad of sounds blending to make the symphony.

When the grand piece concluded, Fries joined the audience in clapping enthusiastically. His hands soon tired, though. They waited until nearly everyone else had left before moving to the elevator. They went outside and waited for Charles to arrive on the busy main street, now filled with concert-goers.

"Did you like the concert," asked William.

Fries nodded eagerly, not resisting a smile. This made William smile. He was always happy when he could make Fries happy.

Soon, Charles pulled up and helped William into the car. On the drive home, Charles talked about what he and Jane had done. Fries just stared out of the window. William tried harder to be pleasant.

When they reached the Bennet mansion, Elizabeth and Jane came outside to greet them. Elizabeth hugged Fries. "Did you have a good time?" she asked.

Fries nodded.

"Come inside and tell me all about it. Mr. Darcy, Charles, won't you come in for a cup of tea or coffee?"

Charles smiled and said, "Of course. We'll be there in a minute."

The other three went inside, leaving the door ajar. Charles got the wheelchair out and helped William into it.

"Why did you say we'd go in? It's too much hassle to move me about."

"Nonsense. You've never been inside their house. It's delightful and you might actually enjoy it. Besides, I wanted to. You're welcome to sit out here in the car if you want."

William remembered his recent resolutions and stopped complaining. Besides, he felt like he was becoming a crotchety old man.

Charles helped him up the steps into the house until William was able to move about on his own. He followed Charles slowly into the kitchen, taking a moment to look around him at the lovely house. It wasn't like what he expected. He didn't know what he had expected. Something snobbier? Something less nice?

He finally came into the kitchen to see Elizabeth putting a kettle on the stove, Jane sitting with Charles and Fries at the table, and a third girl standing chattering to Elizabeth about someone named Rob.

Elizabeth saw him at the door, and said, "Fries, won't you introduce Mr. Darcy to your sister?"

Fries stood and walked over formally, looking quite the charming gentleman in his suit. "William, this is my sister, Storm. Storm, this is my best friend, William Darcy."

Storm flashed a smile. "It's great to finally meet you, Mr. Darcy. I've heard about you for so many years!"

William smiled and shook her proffered hand. "I do believe Fries has told me all about several of your escapades. And please, call me William."

"He has, has he?" she said, mock glaring at Fries. "I thought he barely talked to people. But I suppose all those secrets he keeps must go somewhere."

Fries grinned impetuously at him. He knew he was Storm's favourite brother.

Elizabeth led them over to the table, and moved aside a chair so that William would have a place. They sat there for over an hour, drinking tea and eating biscuits while they first listened to Fries' brief description of the evening, and then they discussed other topics of interest.

Finally, Elizabeth said they should all head off to bed. Fries said goodbye and then Elizabeth sent him upstairs to go to bed. Charles helped William out to the car and then said goodbye to Jane.

The two sisters stood together watching the car leave the drive.

Chapter 5

Posted on Thursday, 5 July 2001

William acted on his resolutions the very next day, searching the internet for an organization he could join and work for. He found one he liked and that he felt would use his expertise and knowledge. He called up the local office and asked if they could use his help, explaining his background and current situation. The man seemed unsure, and put William through to the head of the local office. William explained himself to her, and she expressed an interest in meeting him. William said he could go down there that afternoon, and they set up a time for him to meet her.

William hung up feeling better about himself than he had in a very long time. He was excited about the prospect of working there- hoping to do good for the world. Well, it was a lofty goal, but one that made him feel proud of doing the work.

The problem was finding out how to get there. Charles was at work, and William had never tried going out alone. With difficulty, he managed to change into some business clothes. He had the most trouble with putting his pants on. He succeeded somehow. Next, he looked up the nearest train station to his apartment and to the office. Then he looked up the times and decided he would try to make it there by train.

William set off in plenty of time, and managed to make it all the way to the train station. He got on the train and counted seven stops, then got off. He took the ramp up to the street, and started to his left.

Ten minutes later, William was lost. He was downtown, there were people rushing past him, bumping into him, and he was getting more and more flustered. He managed to get inside a coffee shop and move to the corner of the room, trying to figure out where he went wrong.

He asked a couple sitting at the table next to him where ------ Street was.

"It's on the west side of town."

"What side is this?"

"East."

Oh dear, thought William. Now what do I do? Call Charles.

Charles was away from the office indefinitely. After that, William didn't know whom he could call. He sat there thinking, upset with himself, and letting his spirits quickly plummet. Finally, he thought about calling Jane. She would be kind enough to help him somehow if she could. He called Fries' number, having memorized it years ago.

Elizabeth picked up. "Hello?"

"Hi, this is William. Is Jane there?"

"No, she's out, can I take a message?"

"Um, no."

"Is something wrong?" asked Elizabeth, thinking maybe it had to do with Charles.

William considered telling her for a minute, and then decided she wouldn't laugh, and told her his predicament.

"Oh dear. Well, I would think the best solution is for me to come pick you up in the van. Can you hold on there till I arrive?"

"No, don't come all the way here just for this."

"What else would you propose? You can't just hit the streets cold turkey like that. It takes getting used to for anyone, especially for one hindered by a wheelchair. I'll come and pick you up. I'm afraid I won't be able to bring Fries. He's still at school."

"That's all right. I appreciate this a lot."

"Buy yourself a mocha or something. See you in about half an hour."

William hung up and buried his head in his hands. He couldn't remember when he had been so embarrassed before. He needed this woman to come pick him up like he was a lost child in the city. What she must think! What the lady at the office must be thinking! He'd be over an hour late at this rate. His good day was turning into a very, very bad day.

Forty minutes later, when William was beginning to wonder where she was, Elizabeth's van pulled up to the handicap spot conveniently located in front of the shop. William left the place to meet her.

Elizabeth smiled brightly at him. "Sorry it took me so long. The traffic was worse than I expected."

"It's okay. Thank you for taking a couple of hours out of your busy day."

"Don't mention it. I've brought dinner for a couple of clients to take on my way home, so don't think of it as a complete waste of time. Besides, I'm glad I was able to help. Now, how do we do this? I'm afraid I'm not strong enough to lift you all the way into the van."

"I can lift myself into the seat if you can take care of the chair."

"Fine."

William hoisted himself up into the front seat with his arms. He had developed his arm muscles while being confined to the wheelchair. He instructed Elizabeth how to fold the chair up, and she put it in the back. She got in and started to pull out into traffic.

She laughed a little and said, "I felt this was the first time I could truly justify using a handicap parking spot."

William decided not to take offense, and instead said, "How many times have you parked in one when you couldn't justify it?"

Elizabeth looked at him with amazement. Did he just make a joke? Naw, he couldn't have.

That was a turning point for William. It was like things had gotten so low, he could go nowhere but up from there. He decided not to be embarrassed about his condition. He decided to lighten up. And he decided to become more independent.

Elizabeth dropped him off at the office and William went up to the thirtieth floor. He apologized profusely to the lady, but she was remarkably kind and understanding. They talked for half an hour, before William got up the guts to ask her if they could use him.

She laughed. "Of course, we can! You were hired five minutes after you showed up! We could certainly use someone of your expertise. I'm afraid we're tight for space here, though. I won't be able to give you an office."

"Would it be feasible for me to work out of my home?"

She thought about it. "Yes, I suppose you could. But I would like you to come here for a couple of weeks to see how we work, to learn the ropes."

"Of course."

"If you need assistance getting to work, I might be able to see if someone can bring you in. A car pool of sorts."

"I would like to learn how to manage public transportation, if you don't mind excusing my tardiness if things go wrong again."

"That's quite all right. I admire your courage for trying again. The train schedules are absolutely atrocious! If you're not careful, you could find yourself in the countryside. Well, I'm so pleased you will be joining us Mr. Darcy. You've answered a few of our prayers. Come, why don't I show you around the office now?"

William spent the rest of the day, looking around, and familiarizing himself with people and systems. At five, he left and by some miracle, managed to find his way back to his apartment.

When he returned, Charles was there, frantic with worry. "Where have you been?" he demanded.

William explained. Charles scolded him for going out without his assistance.

"You're the one who said not to let my handicap defeat me. So I decided to become more independent. I dressed myself this morning, too."

"All right, if you're sure. But don't hesitate to call on me for help."

The following day, Charles went with him on the trains to show him where to go. William arrived at the office on time, and was quickly introduced to the staff. He spent the day looking around and going through some of the files they had lying around. He talked with several of the other workers and began to get an assessment on the organization. He brought papers home with him to read over for the following day. By the second week, he had gained enough confidence to start advising changes and alterations in their plan of action.

William stayed with the organization, happy with his resolve and with his work. It gave him something to occupy his time, it gave him a feeling of self-worth, and it gave him a venue to reach out to the world somehow. Time passed faster than it had ever done before....

2 Years Later

There was a knock on the front door and it opened.

"Good evening, Elizabeth."

"Good evening, William. I'll be back to pick up Fries at 5."

"Won't you come in and have a drink or something?"

Elizabeth hesitated, then agreed. He had never asked her in before.

Fries went to get some drinks without being asked. He had adopted William's home as his second home long ago.

Elizabeth sat down at the table. "How is your new position coming along?"

"Excellent. I feel like I'm doing some good, like I'm actually needed and not just a surplus."

"That's great. Do you enjoy it?"

"Very much. It's challenging and rewarding."

"Are you getting paid for your work?"

"No, I declined wages. I don't need them. What I would be getting paid is going into a trust fund for the organization to use later I suppose."

Fries placed glasses on the table and poured juice into them. There was a slight pause before William asked, "How are things going in the big house?"

Elizabeth couldn't help laughing. "Things are hectic as usual. Since it's near the end of the school year, all the children are getting restless. Storm has exams she's studying for. Or at least I assume it's studying. I have a couple looking to adopt one, but I'm not yet sure if I'll agree to it."

"Why wouldn't you?"

"I'm extremely picky about who adopts my children."

"Some would say beggars can't be choosy."

"Except we're not beggars. The fit has to be right. I'm not sending a child off when there's a risk they could be hurt somehow. And that isn't just covering abuse. I also mean if there is a chance that the child won't be loved enough."

William turned to Fries. "What have you been up to?"

He shrugged.

Elizabeth gave Fries a look. He grinned impishly back. "Been playing."

"Piano?"

He nodded. "Bit of guitar, too."

"Where'd you pick up a guitar?"

"School. Teacher has one."

"How are you doing with your lessons?"

Fries shrugged.

Elizabeth answered, "He's doing excellently."

"As I would expect from my boy," replied William, ruffling his hair.

"What are you two going to do today," asked Elizabeth.

"I thought we'd take a trip into the city. I'm sure there's some museum or gallery he hasn't been to."

"Good luck," she replied, laughing.

"Anyway, it's up to him. Why don't you go online and look up something to do?"

Fried went into William's office, leaving the two adults.

Elizabeth stood up to leave. "Thanks for the drink. I'll leave you two to your adventures then."

William followed her to the door. He paused there, wiping his sweaty hands nervously on his trousers and said, "Would you like to go out with me next Friday night?"

"Fries and I?"

"Um, no, just the two of us. It's okay if you don't want to, I understand."

"What did you have in mind?"

"Well, the university is putting on Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance, so I thought we could maybe go out to dinner and then see it." Unconsciously he ran his hands through his hair. He couldn't remember when he'd felt this nervous.

"That sounds nice. I'll just have to make sure Jane can stay home then."

"Shall I call you on Thursday?"

"Sure."

"Okay. Well, um, I'll see you at five?"

Elizabeth nodded, tucking her hair behind her ears again. "Have fun," she said, and left.

William heaved a huge sigh of relief when he closed the door.

"So?"

William spun around, startled.

"So what?"

"What did she say?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Of course you do. William, I'm not a child anymore. I'm twelve. I'm also quick on the computer. I found something to do."

"That's good. Where do you have in mind?"

"First tell me what she said."

"She said yes."

Fries smiled.

"I don't know why you're smiling," replied William grumpily. "Most kids are resentful of other men dating their mothers."

"But you're not just any man and she's not just any mother. It certainly took you long enough to ask her, Geez."

"You're remarkably straightforward today!"

Fries just gave him a significant look. "Come on. We don't have long today."

"Where are we going?"

"I found out there's some Shakespeare in the park going on in Forest Meadows. How's that?"

"Sounds great. You want to pack a picnic?"

"Can you get me a blanket? I'm not sitting in your lap anymore. It's highly undignified for a boy my age."

William kept a straight face and went to fetch an old blanket from the closet while Fries packed a picnic lunch.

During the intermission of The Merry Wives of Windsor, Fries asked William, "What are you going to do with Elizabeth?"

"Dinner and a musical."

"Rather prosaic, don't you think?"

William stared at the lad. "And since when have you become an expert on dating?"

"Oh, so it is a date!"

"No. We're friends and I'm taking her out."

"And since when have you taken Elizabeth out as a friend, or at all?" He didn't wait for an answer. "You better be careful with her."

"I can not believe I'm hearing this. You know me better than anyone. What do you think I'm going to do? Besides, it's none of your business."

"Wrong. It is my business. She's my mother. And you're my best friend. And best friends always stick their noses in your business. And sons always look out for their mothers. And you don't know everything. You don't know how fragile Elizabeth is."

William had never heard Fries talk in such a manner. "You're only twelve. What could-"

"William," Fries interrupted. "You've always said I'm really mature for my age. You've never flaunted my age to me before. Why now? I'm telling you you don't know everything. Be careful."

William felt too puzzled and out of his league to continue arguing with him anymore. Besides, the show was starting.

Chapter 6

Posted on Monday, 16 July 2001

William confirmed their date on the Thursday, and it was agreed she would pick him up at 5:30. William felt rather embarrassed about her picking him up. It didn't feel right. But there wasn't anything he could do about it. He had let to learn to drive a car without using his feet, and he doubted he ever would.

When he was in the van the following night, Elizabeth asked, "Has Fries been acting odd lately?"

"You mean more odd than usual?"

She nodded.

"A little. Why?"

"I don't know. He just sat there watching me as I got ready to leave."

"You think he's upset about me asking you out?"

"That's the only reason I can think of."

"He's just being protective of you. Which actually surprised me. I didn't expect Fries to act that way."

"Neither did I." After a pause, she asked, "What did he say to you?"

"The usual."

Elizabeth smiled a wry smile. "What is the usual, may I ask?"

"Oh you know, don't break her heart or I'll come after you. That sort of stuff."

Elizabeth laughed. "I take it as a good sign. He's looking out of his own box. Being protective of others is a sign of selflessness."

"You still do it."

"What?"

"You still analyze everyone."

"If it bothers you that much, I'll just shut up."

"I thought you weren't allowed to use those words in your house."

"We're not in my house."

"Hypocrite," William mumbled.

"Have you had some previous issues with psychologists or something?"

"There you go again!"

"What's your problem with it? It's a perfectly natural thing to try to find reasons behind behavioral patterns."

"I guess I like things simple. Take them at face value."

"But you can't always do that. If a child steals a loaf of bread, would you not ask why he is doing it? What if it's out of starvation? Wouldn't that merit a different punishment from a motive of greed?"

"That's different."

"No, it's exactly the same thing."

There was silence for a while. It was tense but not malicious. Finally, William said, "My problem with your analysis... is that you always come very close to the truth. And it's unsettling to have your inner soul exposed so unceremoniously. You haven't had the training of a psychologist to be gentle when you do it. You just state as a matter of fact, instead of being careful with someone else's inner workings."

Elizabeth didn't reply for a couple of minutes. "I'm sorry. I didn't realize."

"I know you didn't. That's why I'm telling you. It's all right for you to delve into reasons why and how in your mind, but... don't use it as fodder for light conversation."

"Am I that bad?" she asked in a small voice.

"No, but you're close. You have a good heart, so it's not that bad."

They pulled up to the restaurant, parked in a handicapped spot. William handed her the sign to hang from the rearview mirror. Elizabeth got him his wheelchair and held it steady as he hoisted himself into it. Then together they went into the restaurant. Once inside, William was able to get a good look at her. She looked very nice. She wore black sleek trousers and sleeveless, periwinkle blouse with flowers embroidered at the bottom. Her hair was piled on top of her head, a few curls dangling freely.

They were led to a table, and the waiter took away the second chair. Elizabeth sat down in the remaining one. They soon ordered and began to talk once more.

At one point during the meal, William asked, "How come you've never asked how I came to be handicapped?"

"It was never my place to ask."

"Everyone else considered it their place to ask."

"I'm not everyone else."

"I see that. So you've never been curious."

"Well, I have wondered. If you want to tell me, that's fine, but I would never push you to tell me. But I will ask where you went to when you left five years ago."

"Oh, I went to my Aunt Catherine's in the country. She claimed I wasn't getting enough attention there, so she had me moved there."

"Didn't you have a choice?"

"Not really. I wasn't in any condition to say no."

"Still, that's rather mean."

"As soon as I was able to move about on my own fairly easily, I moved back here."

"Why did you move back here? Couldn't you have gone anywhere?"

"No. I needed someone to live with. I couldn't live on my own. So Charles was good enough to take me in and he lived here."

"So you didn't move back because of Fries?"

"I admit he may have subconsciously affected my decision, but I had no idea he would even remember me."

"It never ceases to amaze me how attached the two of you are. It defies all reason."

William became self-conscious at her words. "Why?"

"I don't know, he's just very different around everyone. Including me."

"No, he's not."

"Yes, he is. He talks a lot more with you. He's more open and forceful with you."

"Do you have any theories in your analytical mind about why?"

"That's what I meant. It defies all reason."

"Oh, I see. If you don't know why, then it defies all reason."

"Of course."

William just shook his head and laughed. They were silent for a minute or two while they ate.

"Do you go often to the University's productions?" Elizabeth asked.

"I try to go to most of them, yes. I just like to support what they're doing. And of course I get a night's entertainment out of them."

"Have they been very good?"

"They are excellent for a University. The music program there is one of the best in the country."

"Don't they use mostly graduate students, though?"

"Yes. The chorus tends to be the undergrads."

"So you like Gilbert and Sullivan?"

"I wouldn't say it's my favourite kind of opera, but yes, I do enjoy it. One has to watch it keeping in mind that it's satire. Otherwise it can seem very corny and overdone. It's rather like the pantomime in that way."

"I shall have to wait and judge for myself. I don't think I've seen any Gilbert and Sullivan, though I am familiar with the music."

William and Elizabeth continued through the pleasant meal to converse on various topics. William tried not to be surprised at how much they did have to talk about. He felt rather ashamed that he didn't expect it. Elizabeth was a wonderful person, and he should have seen it before. But for some reason he hadn't. He enjoyed talking to her. More than anyone else he had met. Even Charles was more fun to be around than to talk to. And Fries wasn't one prone to talking. Apparently Fries talked more around him than anyone else. He couldn't help but be flattered. He still couldn't fathom why Fries and he got on so well. If William had to leave, he would seriously consider taking Fries with him. But he knew he wasn't going anywhere. He had a nice, rewarding job to occupy him, he had a pleasant flatmate, and a staunch friend and companion in Fries. He never stopped to wonder why a twelve-year-old boy was his closest friend besides Charles.

They had lost track of the time and were a little late to the performance. The overture had already begun when they sat down in their seats. A minute later, the curtains rose and Pirates of Penzance flooded the stage in boisterous bravado and raucous singing. Seeing the look of intrigue and delight on Elizabeth's face, William sat back in his wheelchair and enjoyed the show. He had been a little apprehensive that Elizabeth wouldn't like this kind of entertainment. He should have known better. He also should have asked Fries for an opinion. ...Maybe his friend could be more useful in the future.

During "When a Felon's Not Engaged in His Employment", one of William's favourite songs, Elizabeth's pager started to vibrate. She took it from her pocket and glanced at the illuminated message. Swearing softly, she looked over at William.

William could see it was something really important. He nodded and she got out of her seat. She didn't have to worry about disturbing anyone since they were sitting at the end of the row where there was a space for wheelchairs. She walked up the aisle hurriedly and William followed at a slower pace as it was difficult to roll the wheelchair uphill.

In the lobby, Elizabeth found a payphone, and dialed the number.

"Hello? This is Elizabeth Bennet."

William waited patiently.

"Can't you see I'm actually out of the house for once? This is the first time I've taken a break from the children since... since... well I don't remember when was the last time! ... Okay. Yes, I understand. ... I know, I know! You don't have to give me the lecture again. ... Don't give me that crap! I was watching an opera and you interrupted my evening out!"

There was a much longer silence. Elizabeth leaned against the wall, and covered her face with her hand. In a tired, strained voice she asked, "How bad is it? ... Where shall I pick her up? ... Yes, I have room. ...I'll have to bring my date with me. ...I drove. ...It's none of your business. I'll be there as soon as I can and... just... just don't tell her anything, will you? I don't know how many times you've messed up! Bye."

Elizabeth slammed the phone down and turned away from William to curse viciously, her hands clenched into fists. She took a deep breath and then without turning around, she said, "Do you mind leaving? I suppose I could leave you here and have Jane pick you up."

"I'll come," was William's simple reply.

They left the opera house and made their way to the van, parked conveniently nearby in the handicapped space. Elizabeth stowed the wheelchair in the back and then got in, slamming her door unnecessarily.

At least five minutes passed before Elizabeth broke the uneasy silence. She appeared calmer when she said, "I'm really sorry about this. I rarely get emergency calls, but it's just my luck that I'd get one tonight."

"Don't worry about it. It just means we'll have to go out again some other time."

Elizabeth smiled slightly. "It'll be a while before I can go out at night. Usually when I have a new foster child, I stay at home just in case." She paused, then shyly said, "At least it'll give me something to look forward to."

William couldn't help smiling. He reached over and took one of her hands, giving it an affectionate squeeze. Elizabeth smiled in return, and let him hold her hand. It was reassuring when she needed the reassurance. She hated getting new cases. They were always so emotionally difficult to handle. And Elizabeth's short temper when dealing with child neglectors and abusers was always a challenge to control.

After another five minutes, Elizabeth pulled her hand away to use it to drive. "The child is a girl; nine years old. Her mother wasn't feeding her and the authorities found her in a room filled with garbage and her own feces. She has the usual difficulties: not speaking, malnourished, probably not schooled, and most likely won't trust grown-ups for a while. It is my job to help her overcome these difficulties with as much ease as possible. I'm thinking that it would be wiser to bring you in with me and introduce you to her right away. I think it a better idea than leaving you here and surprising her when I need to coax her to trust me enough to get in the car."

"Will she react to me the same way Fries did?"

"Good question. I don't think so. Fries had different problems. His foster father beat him, so he didn't have as big a problem with trusting women like me than trusting men. That's why he felt all right around you. You didn't present a danger. From what I hear, this girl has been neglected, and I'm guessing is pushing everyone away from her. It's a defense mechanism. Push them away and you won't get hurt." She paused to think for a minute. "I just need you to be kind, not pushy, and let me do most of the talking. You're going to see me do my very odd first-contact act. Don't question what I do while she's in our company. I'd be happy to explain afterwards."

William nodded. This was a totally different side to Elizabeth. She was firm; she was the Boss. He was surprised to find it didn't bother him. Usually women acting so bossy irked him. But Elizabeth knew what she was doing. She had done it many times before. And William was glad to see her in action.

Elizabeth pulled into the station, parked the car, and looked at him keenly. In a different, softer tone of voice, she said, "William, I'm so sorry you have to see this. I should have gotten Jane to pick you up."

"No, no. It's fine Elizabeth, really." He could see she wasn't convinced. "Elizabeth," he said again. She looked at him. "It's fine," he said firmly, holding her eyes with his. He took her hand again. "Don't worry about me. I'll follow your lead. I'll enjoy watching you take another helpless child under your wing with so much love it'll make me jealous. I'll support what you're doing in thought and action. And hopefully I will be able to watch you turn this child into a strong young woman with a happy future ahead of her." He gave her hand a squeeze again. "Don't worry about me," he repeated.

Elizabeth smiled a quivering smile.

"Now let's go and collect this child from the hands of the clumsy Keystone Cops."

Elizabeth laughed and said as she got the wheelchair out, "They do actually have police specially trained to handle traumatized children, you know."

"Huh," grunted William as he hoisted himself into the wheelchair. "Amateurs compared to you."

"You flatter me, Milord," she cooed, as she went in.

William gave her a dashing smile and then followed her inside.

Elizabeth went into the station nodded to the man at the desk. He pointed her to a nearby office. The social worker Elizabeth had talked to on the phone stood outside of the office, waiting for her. When she walked up, he looked at her from top to bottom in a manner that made William bristle and Elizabeth sneer in disgust.

"My, my, my. Don't we look hot tonight!"

"I may look hot, as you so charmingly put it, but you sure don't." She eyed his significantly rumpled clothes.

A nasty look passed over his face.

"Your work is done. Run along," said Elizabeth, in a patronizing manner.

She knocked and walked in, William on her heels. Inside, there was an officer and a young girl. Elizabeth signed some documents and then looked at the girl.

The child was tiny. Elizabeth never would have guessed she was nine years old. There was barely anything but skin covering her fragile bones. Her eyes were hollow and seemed to take up most of her face. Her skin was pale and sallow. Her hair was thin and lank, cut messily at chin-length. Her clothes were obviously police station clothes. Ill-fitting and mismatching. She sat on the chair in the corner, sucking her thumb and staring at the newcomers, her legs dangling lifelessly as her feet didn't reach the floor.

When the policewoman had left the office, Elizabeth crouched down and smiled. "Hi, my name's Elizabeth and this is William. You can call me anything you like. Liz, Beth, Lizzie, I don't mind. As soon as you're ready, you can choose your own name! All the children who come to live with me get to pick what name they will be called. Now, we need to get home to feed you and put you to bed. I'll bet you're tired from tonight's excitement. Do you want me to carry you, or do you want to walk?"

Elizabeth expected the girl to either refuse to budge, or to walk. Instead, the child raised the arm that wasn't used in her thumb-sucking, begging to be picked up.

Elizabeth reached out and lifted the girl onto her hip. The girl wrapped her free arm around Elizabeth's neck, and rested her head on Elizabeth's shoulder.

Elizabeth stood, and while holding the child tightly in her arms, looked at William with surprise evident in her face. William's own face was tender and kind, more so than Elizabeth remembered seeing before, except when he was with Fries. Maybe he did have a soft spot for children.

William led the way out to the van. He waited as Elizabeth gently sat the girl down in the front seat, and buckled the seatbelt around her. Then Elizabeth turned her attention to helping William in.

On the way home, Elizabeth gaily chatted about the home and all the other children, occasionally looking to William for verification or his opinion. Finally, they reached the Bennet's mansion.

Elizabeth helped William out first, and when he was settled in his chair, Elizabeth crouched down at his knees and said in a low voice, "William, this may seem rather presumptuous and forward... but would you mind staying here for the night? I really don't feel good about leaving even for a forty-five minutes to take you home."

"No, I don't mind staying here at all," replied William, trying his very best not to sound too eager or pleased.

Elizabeth picked up the girl and William closed the van doors. He followed as far as he could to the door, managing somehow to get over the bumpy threshold. After closing the front door, he decided he had better settle down and wait until Elizabeth was quite through with taking care of the little girl. He had no idea where to go and even then, doubted he could get there on his own due to the many stairs about the place.

Elizabeth, meanwhile, had carried the girl upstairs to one of the empty bedrooms on the girls' hall. She laid the girl down and fetched one of her own big shirts to act as a temporary nightgown. Elizabeth undressed her, and tucked her into bed.

Elizabeth had intended to feed her first thing when they reached the mansion, but the child was nearly asleep anyway, so Elizabeth decided it was best to wait a few more hours.

She leaned down and kissed her good night. She turned on the nightlight, and closed the door. Elizabeth descended the stairs and found William still waiting by the front door.

"Oh, William, I'm so sorry. I should have told you where to go."

"It's all right. I understand you needed to take care of the girl. How is she?"

"Out cold."

"Has she spoken yet?"

"No, but that's not unusual. Come on, let me show you where the guest bedroom is."

"Will I be able to get there?"

She looked at him. After a pause, "Oh."

William raised his eyebrows. Did the fact that he was in a wheelchair really never cross her mind?

"Yeah, yeah I think so."

"Lead the way."

Elizabeth led him across the spacious living room down a hall, past what he saw to be the laundry room. She pointed to the next door and said, "That's the bathroom, and this is the bedroom."

She opened the door and showed him into a very nice, neat bedroom.

"We don't use it that much. Every now and then, we'll have prospective adoptive parents who need a place to stay."

"It's very pleasant indeed."

"Well, everything you need should be here. If you happen to need anything else... um, I guess you could reach me by using the telephone. This is a different line from our usual one. So you could just call here and I'll pick it up. I'm used to calls in the middle of the night. I'm a light sleeper."

She was babbling uncharacteristically. She laughed hesitantly. "Hmm, well, I'll let you get to sleep then."

She blushed a deep crimson, turned away, and began to walk out of the room.

"Thank you," said William. "And good night."

"Good night," she said as she walked down the hall.

The following morning, Elizabeth went into Fries' room after checking on the new girl. Elizabeth shook him awake.

"What?" he mumbled, still half asleep.

"Guess who's downstairs in the guest room."

"Who? New parents? I told you I don't want to go anywhere else."

"No, not new parents."

He was silent a while, scrubbing the sleep out of his eyes. Finally, he said, "I give up. Who?"

"William!"

"William? You mean you slept with him?!"

Elizabeth was more shocked than she could ever remember being before. She stared at him for a second and then as she saw him about to say more, her hand shot out and covered his mouth rather roughly. She leaned forward on the bed, putting her face close to his. Fries' eyes were wide with fear.

In a dangerously low voice, Elizabeth said, "I don't know where you would know about that sort of thing considering your age and your usual character, but I will have you understand that despite what you have heard or read, I would never do such a thing. Not only am I a woman willing to wait until I am married to sleep with someone, you, of all people, should know that William is an honorable gentleman who would never take advantage of a woman."

She paused.

"I received an emergency call last night during the opera and had to go to the station to pick up a new foster child. William was with me since I had driven him. I was not willing to leave the child here long enough to take him home, and so he agreed to stay in the guest room."

She paused again.

"I want you to go downstairs... greet William... and ask him this exact question. 'Where do babies come from?' And if he says to ask the question of anyone else, I want you to say I told you to ask him. ... And I want you to sit there and listen to him. Understand?"

Fries nodded, his eyes still wide open.

Elizabeth released her hand from its grip on his face, and walked out of the room, closing the door firmly behind her.

It was a very meek and humble Fries who walked down the stairs that morning to see William. He dreaded asking the question, but knew he would suffer worse consequences if he didn't ask it.

He knocked on the guest room door and opened it upon command. He saw William up and sitting at the window watching some of the early risers playing in the back garden.

"Hello," William said, happy to see Fries.

"Hi."

William noticed Fries' rather down-turned attitude. "What's wrong?"

Fries threw himself on the bed and sighed a deep sigh. "I pissed off Elizabeth big time this morning."

"Really? How did you manage that?"

Fries didn't want to say how. "I just made a really bad comment. I shouldn't have said it really, but she had woken me up and I wasn't thinking straight."

"What did you say?" asked William, curious about what could make Elizabeth so angry.

"I don't want to tell you. It's really embarrassing."

"All right."

"She was more mad than I've ever seen her before."

"Well, it's not like she'll ever stop loving you. Did you apologize?"

"I didn't get a chance to. She left."

"Well apologize to her the next chance you get."

"I will."

There was a long pause. Fries had intended to ask William about the previous night, but that was before he had been given the Herculean task of asking this ridiculous question.

He decided to bite the bullet. "William, can I ask you something?"

"Sure."

Without making eye contact, Fries asked, "Where do babies come from?"

"Excuse me?" said a stunned William.

"Where do babies come from?"

"That's what I thought you said. Well, that's a really good question, and one I thought you would have known the answer to by now. Actually... I think Elizabeth is a better one to answer it."

"She said to ask you."

"She did, did she?"

Fries nodded, still not making eye contact.

"Well..."

Fries endured a good thirty minutes of the embarrassing lecture, too humbled to inform William that he knew. It was no less torturous to William, who found himself playing a father figure to a boy he was used to seeing as his friend. Finally, when William seemed to have ceased talking, Fries suggested they go eat breakfast.

Charles was coming over for dinner, so William decided to stay at the Bennets' until Charles could take him home. William and Fries soon recovered from the morning's ordeal, and spent the rest of the day together talking, playing music, or playing games.

Elizabeth spent most of her time with the new girl. Feeding her a little at a time, and showing her around the big house, introducing her to the other children.

Jane was busy as usual keeping an eye on the children and cooking meals.

Dinner was the usual huge affair with all of the children and Charles, William, and Jane sitting around the table. Elizabeth was still with the new girl, who had yet to speak a syllable or to take her thumb out of her mouth.

After dinner, Charles and William decided to go home. Elizabeth left her new charge for a few minutes to say goodbye.

Aside from everyone else, Elizabeth and William said good night. "Again, I'm sorry last night was ruined. I enjoyed it anyway."

"So did I. Would you like to go out with me again sometime?"

Elizabeth smiled shyly. "Yes, but not for three weeks at least."

"I understand. Well, good luck with the new girl."

"Thank you."

"Good night."

"Good night," she replied, and returned to the new girl's room.

Chapter 7

Posted on Friday, 27 July 2001

It was several weeks before Elizabeth and William met again. Storm had taken over a lot more of the driving around while Elizabeth devoted her efforts to the new girl, so Elizabeth had not even had the opportunity of saying hello to William when Fries was dropped off to spend time with him.

The new girl was still not talking. She was responsive though, and by process of elimination, Elizabeth had a discovered a name she liked; Eva. Elizabeth didn't know where the name came from and hoped it wasn't Eva's mother's name, because it would create complications later on.

Eva was extremely passive. She didn't make decisions on her own, and did as she was told. Her silence lasted longer than any other child she had taken in. Elizabeth was beginning to wonder if the child physically couldn't speak- a mute. However, once, Eva tripped and fell on the pavement. Her cries were vocal though unintelligible.

Elizabeth next wondered if Eva knew English. She tried speaking as many languages as she could to see if Eva responded to any of them. After struggling through Russian, Jane pointed out that Eva came when called and understood commands.

Elizabeth began to wonder if Eva had been taught not to speak. It was quite conceivable that Eva's demented parents taught her that a child was to be seen and not heard. Had not children throughout history been taught that? Elizabeth as a sociologist knew full well the implications of that archaic practice, but here might be an extreme case of it.

After many, many attempts at trying to get Eva to speak, Elizabeth decided to use bribery. It was a practice she used as a parent only as a last resort. She refused to use food. The child was still extremely underweight and malnourished. So instead, she said to Eva one morning, two months after she had taken her into the Bennet mansion, "If you speak to me, and continue to communicate with the outside world, I will give you any toy you want."

The ploy did not produce an immediate result. However after two days of reminding Eva of the deal, Eva spoke. Apparently, Eva had spent those two days just deciding what toy she wanted most in the world, for she said, "A doll."

Elizabeth, busy at the art table scrubbing crayon of its surface, turned around and said, "I beg your pardon?" in an astounded voice.

"I wanna doll."

Elizabeth laughed out loud, grabbed Eva and spun her around in the air before crushing the child in her embrace. When she set Eva on the ground, Elizabeth said, "If you continue to talk, we will plan a shopping trip tomorrow afternoon, all right?"

Eva chose a beautiful doll with a long frilly dress and blonde curls. It wasn't the porcelain one Eva had first asked for, since Elizabeth had convinced her that Eva might break a porcelain doll when playing with her. So after going through three stores, and stopping for lunch, Eva finally found the doll she wanted.

Eva named her Laura, and was never seen without her since the day Elizabeth bought the doll for Eva.

A month after Eva seemed more settled into the routine of life, Elizabeth decided to take the whole family to Disney World for a holiday. It wouldn't be much of a holiday for Jane and Elizabeth, in charge of nine children in a huge amusement park, but they had been promising to take the children for years, and that year had turned out to be the best opportunity yet.

Jane suggested asking Charles to join them, adding an adult as well as enjoyment for Jane. Elizabeth agreed it would be an excellent idea. She talked to Storm, too.

"I'm counting on you to help me out with the children. I understand you're too old for Disney World, but I promise I'll make it up to you some other way."

Storm had been about to contradict Elizabeth, saying of course she would enjoy Disney World despite now being a cool teenager, but then saw the wisdom in keeping her mouth shut. She could get double the payment that way. Let Elizabeth think it would be a chore to go to Disney World.

Elizabeth also talked to Fries: "I'm expecting you to be the responsible young man I know I can count on when we're in Disney World. I'll have my hands full anyway, but with you to help me, it'll be so much easier."

Fries knew full well Elizabeth was playing him for a fool. He knew what she meant. She meant he wouldn't be able to ride any of the really fast rides he wanted, and he would be stuck taking care of the little ones. So Fries innocently said, "Well, it'll be awfully hard for me on my own in that huge place filled with people. Could William come with me to help?"

Elizabeth considered it for a minute, and then said, "If you ask him and he wants to come with you, that's fine."

Elizabeth obviously didn't give Fries all the credit he was due. Should I now mention that Fries' favourite Jane Austen character is Emma?

Fries called William immediately on the telephone. William also didn't suspect Fries of any underhandedness, and agreed to go.

Elizabeth felt better with four adults, one teenager, and one almost teen in age- but a teen in maturity- to watch seven small children. The group took two vans; Jane, Charles and Storm with four children in one; Elizabeth, William, Fries, Eva (with Laura), and two more children in the other.

For the first three hours, Elizabeth and William spent their time trying to occupy the children's attention. As time passed, they began to get more and more restless. They stopped frequently for someone to go to the restroom, despite Elizabeth's pleas for everyone to try and go at once even if they didn't think they had to go. Another time, they stopped at McDonalds for lunch, and Elizabeth had to buy seven Happy Meals. The playground outside released a lot of their pent up energy, which resulted in a peaceful afternoon drive with all of the children, including Fries, asleep in the back.

This left William and Elizabeth the opportunity to talk in peace and quiet. For a few minutes, neither said anything to each other, just enjoying the quietness.

Then William asked, "How've you been?"

Elizabeth laughed a little, "Very frazzled."

"Frazzled?"

"Well, exhausted by all the chaos. I don't know why, but it's been worse than usual. It's time for some of these children to be sent to a better home."

"Aren't you sad when they go?"

"Oh, definitely. And it doesn't get any easier with each successive good bye. But I know it's the best thing for them. If I find really good homes for them, they will turn out better with more individual care than I can give them. We're just a halfway house in a way. I take the cases that are particularly bad and by the time I'm through with them, they're ready to be incorporated into a normal family again."

"So what happened with Fries and Storm?"

"They didn't want to leave. I had offers, but it was up to them. I tried to convince them, but I won't ever force them. They seem to thrive in this kind of environment. Fries doesn't want attention, he likes to be in the background. Storm likes being the oldest with a lot of responsibility and freedom. She didn't need me to give her attention, she did just fine in attracting it anyway. I'm very proud of her. She's come an awful long way from when I first collected her. She's a popular girl at school, but she's a free spirit. She knows I disapprove of her doing things just because it's cool. As a result, she seems to set the trend. As long as she keeps her grades up, I don't mind. I'm glad they've stayed with me. It's meant a lot to me to have those two to call my own."

"Why don't you officially adopt them?"

"I suppose I should, especially Storm before her 18th birthday so they can claim inheritance. But it'll be such a big hassle going through all the paperwork."

"Surely it would be easier for you since you have such a reputation."

"Apparently not."

There was a pause. Then William asked, "Are you looking forward to Disney World?"

Elizabeth looked at him with an Are-you-insane? look on his face.

"Oh. This isn't exactly a holiday for you, is it?"

Elizabeth shook her head emphatically. "It's more work than usual, actually."

"And yet, you still selflessly give to the children."

"It's practically all I do in life."

"Do you ever wish you'd done something else with your life? Or with your money?"

"Not really. I wish I had more time and more life to devote to more children, but I don't. So I don't waste my time wondering what ifs."

"Good philosophy."

"Well, when you have five children asking you what if questions all day, then you might have the same philosophy too."

William laughed.

"How are you going to keep in touch in the theme park?" asked William.

"We'll use our cell phones. It's easiest."

"I can just see me pulling out my cell phone as we go upside down in a loop at 50 mph."

"Just don't drop it."

They talked for another half an hour before the children began to wake up. It wasn't soon enough before they got to the hotel. They had four rooms, one adult in each room and two kids in three, three kids in the last one. It was very late by the time they had all of them in bed, and it was all the adults could do to climb in themselves.

Early the next morning, they went to Disney World. Elizabeth made sure everyone understood the rule. They had to be with an adult at all times. And if they were to get lost, they should stand exactly where they were until someone found them.

With those words, they split up. Fries stayed with William, and William took Eva with him. Elizabeth was concerned at first, but then decided if it didn't work out by lunch time, she would take the girl into her care.

The first ride William led them to was Space Mountain. Fries gave it a skeptical look, and asked, "Are you sure this is any good? It looks really dull to me."

William gave him a grin, and said, "Just you wait."

Because William was in a wheelchair accompanied by two young children, the staff led the trio to the front of the line, and they didn't have to wait at all. The staff helped William get in and then settled Fries in front of him, and Eva in front of Fries.

"Are you okay Eva?" William asked.

She nodded.

"Just hold on tight to Fries. He won't let you fall."

William was actually beginning to wonder if taking Eva on this ride at all was very smart. She was old enough, but she always seemed so much younger than her age. The trolley jolted and began to move forward. It began to climb slowly upward. Up and up and up. They were surrounded by darkness twinkling with stars. Then suddenly they came to the top, and began to go down. Very fast. Very, very fast. An extremely high pitched scream pierced the rumbling noise. William held on more tightly to Fries who in turn clutched Eva all the more tightly. Around and around they went, being jerked about, and tossed upside down and divested of their guts to be left behind.

Finally, they came to a halt at the depot. Shakily, Fries stood up and got out.

"Eva, you okay?" asked a nervous William.

She slowly nodded her head. Fries helped her out and then waited as the staff helped William back into his wheelchair. He looked at Eva, who was walking a little unsteadily.

She looked at him, and said, "Can we go again?"

"Go again?" repeated William, flabbergasted.

She nodded.

"Well, there are so many other rides and places to see, I thought you would prefer to look around more."

"Okay," she said, and then began to walk out of the exit.

Fries laughed at William and gave his shoulder a friendly punch.

They visited the castle next. Eva loved looking at all the beautiful pictures of the Cinderella story. They got to meet Goofy and Minnie Mouse. They bought lollipops to lick as they walked. And they went on many more of the rides. Fries certainly saw the advantage to accompanying a handicapped man, but knew better than to say so. He realized how sensitive William could be about his handicap, still.

The whole group met for lunch at one of the restaurants. Elizabeth asked Eva many questions and was surprised to find that the girl was enjoying herself immensely with William. William knew what she meant by asking Eva questions, and gave her a Don't-you-trust-me? look, of course completely forgetting his own doubts earlier.

By dusk, everyone was very tired. Eva had long since taken up residence in William's lap, and Fries wished he were young enough to do the same. Elizabeth decided to call it a day, and they all returned to the hotel.

The following day was the long drive home. The children were more subdued, and slept most of the way, much to the grownups' relief.

Elizabeth and William talked more. Nothing particular, just what they believed in, what they thought about the current state of politics, what was their opinion on Harry Potter, and other various subjects.

Finally, they returned home. William and Charles drove home immediately as Elizabeth and Jane put all the little ones to bed. Elizabeth considered the trip a success. They hadn't had any major disasters short of a bloody nose, and all the children enjoyed themselves. Even Elizabeth could say she was glad she went.

Fries began to play more of an active role in bringing together Elizabeth and William. He invited William to dinner or to watch a movie. Once, he even acted ill so Elizabeth would go in his place to the symphony. When Elizabeth returned home after a marvelous evening with William to find Fries in good health practicing his guitar, she caught on, and told him off thoroughly.

This didn't stop Fries from trying other ploys. William began to catch on, but he didn't say anything.

Elizabeth had taken the children to the dentist and she had advised Elizabeth to find a way to get Eva to stop sucking her thumb, for the habit was pushing Eva's front teeth forward.

Elizabeth tried several methods from asking, pleading, painting her thumb with foul tasting liquids, taping a piece of wood like a popsicle stick to her thumb, and taping her thumb to her first finger. None of these seemed to work. So Elizabeth resorted once again to bribery. It wasn't bribery in the truest sense, just a reward for doing well. She told Eva that if she stopped sucking her thumb for one day, she would be given any candy of her choice. If she stopped for a week, she would receive a new outfit for Laura, her doll. And if she stopped sucking her thumb for a whole month, she could have any toy she wanted again.

It took several months to accomplish it, but gradually Eva stopped sucking her thumb. When the glorious final day of not sucking her thumb arrived, Elizabeth took Eva shopping. Elizabeth asked William to come along, and together, the three of them went searching through the mall for the perfect toy.

Three hours later, they still had not found anything, despite significant prodding by Elizabeth and William to get their preferred toy. They passed a pet store, and Eva stopped to watch the kittens in the window.

"Elivabef, can I haf one of doze?"

"A kitten? You know they turn into big cats, right?"

Eva nodded.

"You still want one?"

Elizabeth looked at William despondently. He shrugged.

"Well, why don't we go to the pound and look at all the kittens who don't have any homes."

"But dese kittens don't haf any homth."

"I know, but they will almost certainly go to a happy home some day, whereas the ones in the pound might die before anyone wants them."

"Okay."

So the three of them drove to the pound to search for a cat for Eva. When they went in, Elizabeth asked the lady if they had any child-friendly cats. Elizabeth could just imagine a mean cat swiping and biting at innocent Eva.

They went into the cat section of the pound, and began to look in all the cages of homeless cats. Almost all of them were handsome, in good health, and a few were curious enough to walk to the front of their cages.

Eva looked around in wonder. The attendant opened one of the cages, and pulled out a ginger cat. Eva took him in her arms and tried to pet him. He squirmed too much, so the attendant put him back.

After trying two more cats, the attendant gave Eva a small, long-haired, black cat. He clung to Eva's shoulder and began to purr very loudly. Eva giggled. When the attendant picked the cat up to put him back, he clung to Eva with his claws in her clothes.

"Come on," said the attendant, prying the cat's claws out of the clothing.

The cat meowed pitifully. When he was back in the cage, he sat at the front peering out.

Eva wasn't interested in the others after that. Despite Elizabeth's suggestion that they look a bit more, Eva went back to the black cat and scratched his head through the bars. He purred loudly once more.

Eva looked at Elizabeth and said, "I want dis one."

"Are you sure?"

She nodded.

"All right."

Elizabeth filled out the paperwork while Eva sat on William's lap, holding her new cat.

In the car, Elizabeth said, "Now, you know you will have to share him with everyone else in the house, all right? He's not going to be your cat, but he'll belong to the whole family."

Eva nodded, petting him, still.

"And you're going to have to take good care of him, too. He'll want to be fed and he'll need a litter box, and he'll shed, so you have to help clean the house of his hair."

Eva nodded again.

They went to the store to buy the food and other supplies the attendant had suggested they purchase.

Finally, they reached home as supper was being served.

"William, you will stay for supper, won't you?" asked Elizabeth.

He nodded.

The appearance of the new house pet created a bit of an uproar. Everyone wanted to see and pet the cat. Elizabeth felt happier about her choice when she saw how good-natured the cat was. He didn't seem to mind all the attention at all. He quite loved it actually.

Finally, Elizabeth took the cat and put him in the laundry room with the litter box and some food. Everyone sat round the table and talked about the cat.

Eva decided to name him Magic. Elizabeth was in the middle of reading the Harry Potter books to her, so she wasn't surprised. The cat seemed to fit the name, anyway.

"You know, I'm not going to sleep with you again. This is a one-night stand. I'm not saying I haven't enjoyed tonight. But... well it just wouldn't work out. You'll sleep with other women and I just don't think I could handle that. Besides, your breath smells. And I don't think I could rest well with someone whose breath smells as badly as yours. And you always stare at me like that! Don't do that! It makes me nervous. It makes me wonder what goes on behind those eyes of yours. Stale fish, that's what you smell like. And you leave hair all over my bed!" Sigh. "Yep. Sleeping arrangements are definitely going to be rearranged."

Elizabeth scratched his stomach and smiled as he began to purr loudly again.

Magic did sleep around, but it only seemed fair. Eva liked to think he preferred her room. But then again, everyone liked to think Magic preferred their room. I suppose this was what made Magic the perfect pet for the Bennet household. He didn't seem to play favourites, he was good-natured, and rarely ever ruined the furniture or peed on the carpet. He was both an inside and an outside cat. Sometimes at night, Elizabeth would let him out, but most of the time, it was during the day. He always came home for food and, Elizabeth supposed, for the attention.

However, Elizabeth soon learned the downside to an outside cat when Magic brought home a 'gift' for the household. It was a dead mouse, neatly killed, and laying limply on the doormat.

"Hello?"

"Hi, William."

"Elizabeth! Hello. What can I do you for?"

"Can you come over?"

"Not immediately, I'm at work, why? Is there something the matter?"

"Yes."

"Well... what is it?"

"Magic killed a mouse last night and brought it home. It's on the back doormat!"

William laughed heartily.

"William! Come and dispose of it!"

"Me? You want me to come all the way out there just to get rid of a dead mouse?"

"Yeah."

"I can't believe this!"

"Is that a yes?"

"No. Elizabeth, just take a dustpan and scoop him up, take him into the bushes and leave him there. It's no biggie."

"But it's dead."

"Yes, and so are the cockroaches you do the same thing with."

"But this used to be alive."

"It's not now. Elizabeth, really. Just scoop him up and dump him in the bushes."

Elizabeth began to whine.

"All right put Fries on."

Elizabeth went to fetch Fries and handed him the phone. "William wishes to speak with you," she said.

Two minutes later, Fries hung up. "Well, what did he say?"

Fries grinned. "He said to make sure you were the one to get rid of it."

"You're kidding! Oh! That man!" she stalked off leaving a giggling Fries.

In the end, Elizabeth did have to scoop up the mouse and toss it in the bushes. Fries had gone around the house and told the others not to help her. By the time Elizabeth had actually accomplished the task, she had quite an audience, including the three gardeners who had also been recruited to refuse to help her.

Elizabeth vented her anger by yelling at Magic, who just placidly ignored her and gave himself a bath.

William was actually quite pleased she had called him. He felt like maybe he hadn't lost his manhood after all if women still called him for protection. Well... he could hardly call Elizabeth 'women'. And... he could hardly call asking him to dispose of a dead rodent 'protection'. Still, he felt good about it all the same.

Chapter 8

Posted on Monday, 13 August 2001

A month after Fries turned thirteen years old, he gave his first piano concert. It was in conjunction with two other musicians of his caliber and age. The whole Bennet clan including Charles and William turned out to watch it. Fries played two pieces on his own to start with; Chopin's Nocturne in E minor and Waltz in A flat minor. Then he played two duets with a flute and three duets with a violin.

William looked at the program to see the name Fries Bennet with the other two names on the front. He looked at Elizabeth and pointed to it in wonder. She nodded, her eyes tearing slightly. William smiled teasingly at her, took her hand in his and squeezed it before turning back to watch his best friend perform amazingly.

Fries' talent was not unknown in the household. It just wasn't celebrated. Elizabeth had long since moved the grand piano into a more secluded room set up more comfortably for Fries to do the many hours of practice required of him. In the same room, stood his classical guitar, music stand, a well-used metronome, and a bookcase containing a growing collection of music. Fries was to be found there most of the day, working on various pieces diligently and with a patience and persistence Elizabeth wondered at daily. He took lessons from the best instructor in the city two times a week for piano, and once a week with a less exalted instructor for his guitar.

Elizabeth had consented to home school Fries when she learned how unhappy he was at school and how much the school didn't cater to his needs. She would still occasionally ask William to give the boy a couple of lessons she thought he could teach better.

The arrangement worked out well, and Fries had become an up and coming concert pianist before their eyes. William had never really been exposed to Fries' more virtuoso side, and was rather taken aback at seeing the level of his performance.

After the concert, the three performers greeted people in the foyer. William hung back and watched Fries as he thanked people for coming and chatted to them briefly. No one would have been able to tell that Fries was a very reticent, shy boy. He looked quite the musician with his dark, shaggy hair, passionate brown eyes, pale skin, tall, willowy figure, and slender hands.

At one point, Fries caught William's eyes. He grinned wryly and then turned away to greet another lady.

Jane and Charles took the other children home, leaving Elizabeth and William to wait for Fries. Elizabeth stood beside William off to the side.

"Do you think it would be nice to take Fries out for ice cream or something?" asked William.

"I don't know. Let's ask him. I don't know if he'll be tired and want to go home."

A couple of minutes later, William asked, "Do you mind if we go outside? I'm getting stuffy in this suit."

"Why don't you take off your jacket?"

"I said 'stuffy' not hot."

"Touchy!" murmured an amused Elizabeth.

They went out onto the patio outside the front doors. It was cooler in the night air. After a couple minutes of silence, William asked, "So Fries uses your name?"

Elizabeth smiled shyly and nodded. William thought she was cute.

"Did you know he was going to do that?"

"No, actually. But... the other night, I was tucking him into bed, and he asked quite suddenly and as if it was no big deal, 'Can I call you Mum?' And I was so surprised. None of the children have called me anything like mother. It really meant a lot to me."

"So what did you say?"

Elizabeth laughed. "I said 'Sure'. One of the most incredible moments of my life and I just say 'Sure'. But I gave him a big hug and a kiss."

"He's not too old for kisses, yet?" asked William, thinking of teenagers' pride.

"I don't think Fries will ever be too old for love and affection. He is different from most children. You know that."

"Of course I do. So, does he call you Mum, now?"

"Ever since."

"Wow."

"It makes me feel a little old, too."

"You can't have it both ways, you know," William replied, laughing.

"I know, but still. Just wait until he starts calling you Dad."

"That'll never happen. I'm afraid I don't fit the father-type figure."

"You think so?" asked Elizabeth. "I think you're wrong."

Just then, Fries walked out to them, holding his music. "Are you ready?" he asked, as if they were only leaving the grocery store.

Elizabeth gave him a hug and a kiss. "You did wonderfully, Fries. I am so proud of you."

Fries turned sheepish. "Thanks, Mum."

William couldn't even speak. He just grinned at Fries and yanked the boy down so he could hug him.

"All right, all right," said an embarrassed Fries. "I have had enough of this for tonight. Let's go."

"We were wondering if you'd be up to going out for ice cream," Elizabeth said.

"Sure, sounds nice. I need to wind down a bit. I'm afraid my hands are still shaking." He held his slender hands up and William could see they really were unsteady. Fries laughed nervously and stuffed them back in his pockets. "Thank goodness I don't get sweaty when I'm nervous. That'd be worse. Slip on the keys. ... Be awkward to shake hands."

They walked to the van and Fries helped William into the front seat. Ten minutes later, they were sitting down with their ice cream. "So did you hear me mess up in the third movement of the flute piece?"

"No," replied Elizabeth.

"What about in the Chopin?"

"No."

"Well, surely you heard me screw up in the second violin duet."

"Fries, I seriously didn't hear you mess up once. That doesn't mean you didn't, it just means unless one knew the piece really, really well, they wouldn't know you had messed up. Ask William."

Fries turned to William. He shook his head. "Sounded flawless to my untrained ear."

"Well I'm sure my teacher heard them."

"Doubtless he did," replied Elizabeth. "But that doesn't mean you aren't an incredible performer who brought joy to the listener with each note you played. It doesn't matter if you played every note perfectly. What does matter is what you expressed to the audience."

"Oh, by the way, this lady came up to me and asked if I would play at some party of hers."

"Really?" Elizabeth looked at William with a shocked look. He looked just as surprised. "What did you say?"

"I said I would have to ask my mother, of course."

"Oh. So... this is you asking me?"

"Yeah."

"When is it? Where is it?"

"Well, she wrote it all down for me with her phone number." He fished a small piece of paper out of his pocket and put it on the table. "Said she'll pay me, too."

Elizabeth looked impressed. She looked at the piece of paper. The address given was in a very posh side of town. It was for two weeks from then.

"She also said I could bring my mother or father."

"I wouldn't be able to go. It's the night of Morgana's dance recital."

"Should I decline the offer so I can go to her recital?" asked Fries.

"Ask Morgana. She might not mind your missing it."

"William, will you go with me?"

William had been hoping Fries wouldn't ask him. It would place him in exactly the same society he wished to avoid. But at the same time, he couldn't refuse Fries. He replied, "If you're actually going to do it, then yes, I will accompany you."

Elizabeth said, "I would ask your teacher, too, Fries. He may disapprove of your being hired."

"I will. I don't see why she should object."

"Well, it might take time away from other work you need to be doing."

They talked for twenty minutes longer before leaving to go home. Elizabeth dropped William off at his apartment, and then she and Fries went home.

The following week, Robin was in a school play. Elizabeth asked William if he would go as Jane would remain at home to look after the children. He agreed, and she picked him up after dropping Robin off early to get ready.

"So you're going with Fries next week to that party, right?" said Elizabeth when he was in the car.

"Yeah, I guess, if he's going to do it."

"His teacher didn't mind as long as he didn't take on more than three engagements a month." She laughed a little. "As if he would ever have that many requests!"

"You'd be surprised. He might become in demand. You never know. Don't underestimate high society. They're whimsical in their ways."

"You sound like you speak from experience," she said, looking at him suspiciously.

"Well, maybe I do speak from experience."

"When were you in high society?" she asked, incredulously.

"Before I was crippled."

"But, you never told me before."

"It never came up," he replied with a shrug.

"How were you in high society? I mean, why?"

William sighed, running his hand through his hair and looking out the side window. He spoke: "I used to work in a very successful firm. I was in the upper echelons of society. I moved in their circles. I thought they were my friends. I danced to their tune. Then one day, bang, a drunk driver hits me from the side, and the next, I wake up without the use of my legs. And just like that, I was dropped from society. Never spoken of. Never spoken to unless necessary. So, yeah, I speak from experience. And I may be okay with Fries performing for them, but as soon as he becomes their play-toy, I'm sorry, but I'm pulling out. I won't watch the most precious person in my life end up like me."

Elizabeth didn't know what to say. She'd never known how he was injured. She'd never known what he was before his accident. She'd never asked. And now she didn't know how to reply to it all coming out at once. Finally, she stammered, "I'm sorry, William. I... had no idea. I didn't mean to..."

William laughed feebly, raking his hand through his hair again. "Don't worry about it, Elizabeth. You didn't force me. I should have told you a long time ago. It wasn't right."

"You mean they snubbed you just because some drunk driver crashed into you?"

"No. If I had come out of that collision whole, I would have kept on as before. But as a cripple, a handicapped man, I was not to be accepted."

"That's... that's..."

"That's high society."

Elizabeth let out an incredulous laugh. "I can't believe someone could do that."

"Come now, Elizabeth. You care for children who have suffered physical and mental abuse and you still can ask that question of humanity?"

"True," she admitted. "Oh! But you said you'd go to the party with Fries!"

"Yeah, so? I'll go with him."

"But what if you meet some of your old acquaintances?"

He was silent for a minute or two. "You know? A while ago, I would have been ashamed to go. Embarrassed, awkward. But now... I would love to go there as I am, and to show them how I've changed. I'm a better man now because of my accident. I love what I do. I love my friends. And the best part, is to be able to point to Fries performing wonderfully on the piano, and to say, 'He's my best friend; he's my protégé.'"

Elizabeth smiled at him. "And Fries certainly does owe a lot to you. You've taught him and influenced him and guided him more than you'll ever know. You do have a lot to be proud of."

"You can't talk!" William shot back, teasingly, uncomfortable with the level the conversation had just taken. "You have a lot more children looking up to you than just my one!"

"Doesn't make the glory any less for you, laddy!" she replied, and pulled into the handicapped space. "And you know something?" She turned to face him, leaning on the armrest. "You just analyzed yourself."

William humphed grumpily. "Did not."

"Did too," she replied, getting out of the van.

"You're just saying that to annoy me," he replied, as she set the wheelchair below him on the ground.

"Nooo," she said as he leaned on her shoulder to lower himself into the wheelchair. "If I had said the exact same speech about myself, you would have accused me of analyzing."

"You're just jealous because I do it so much better than you."

Elizabeth laughed heartily. She locked the van and followed him to the school. The parking lot was on a hill above the auditorium where the play would take place. To descend the hill, there were two flights of steep steps. Beside the steps were eight ramps back and forth sloping downwards.

William looked at them with disgust. "You've got to be kidding me!"

"I'm so sorry, William. If I had thought about it, I would have dropped you off in front of the auditorium. Do you want to get back in the van and I'll drive you down?"

"Elizabeth! It's not that bad. I just can't believe they would put handicapped spots up here. Come on, let's start our way down. Actually, come here."

"What?" she asked, walking next to him.

He suddenly pulled her onto his lap. He grinned at her mischievously and said, "Let's have a bit of fun!"

He began to roll down the first ramp. "William! What do you think you're doing?" she exclaimed, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck so she wouldn't fall.

"We'll get down much faster this way," he explained quite logically.

"You're mental!" she said.

"No, just slightly askew."

They zoomed down the next ramp.

"William, watch out!" she screamed as they headed toward a concrete wall quite fast.

"Stop screaming in my ear. Trust me," he replied calmly, as he stopped them short of the wall and did a 180 turn down the next one.

Elizabeth decided it was better not to look, so she buried her face in the crook of William's neck. William quite liked the pleasant feeling it sent through the working part of his body.

A minute later they reached the bottom. Elizabeth stood up slowly, and huffily pulled down her rumpled blouse. "I think I prefer the more stately descent."

William took her hand and gave it a squeeze. "Aw, come on. Admit it, you enjoyed it."

"It's not ladylike or appropriate for a woman my age."

"Oh! And this, coming from the woman who plays Barbies and GI Joe with children everyday?!"

"That's different."

"Whatever," he replied, and released her hands to wheel himself into the auditorium.

Throughout the charming play of 'You're A Good One, Charlie Brown', William thought that Elizabeth sat closer to him than she had ever before. She leaned on the armrest nearest him, and every now and then would look at him with a proud smile on her face as Robin stepped forth to deliver his lines. William couldn't help but smile back at her. After the intermission, in which parents congregated together to congratulate each other on their sons or daughters, William even had the courage to take her hand in his, and keep it. She didn't pull away, which William took to be a good sign.

After the play ended, Elizabeth found Robin and gave him a big hug and a kiss, telling him how proud she was. She helped him find all of his things backstage, and then went outside to find William waiting by the front doors. Without his even asking, Elizabeth said she would bring the van down to pick William and Robin up. William had not relished the thought of going back up all those ramps.

While they waited for the Elizabeth to return, William said to Robin, "I was very impressed with your performance. Are you going to become a professional actor someday?"

Robin did not seem flattered. "Naw. I don't think so. It's too much work to memorize all those words."

"Did you enjoy it anyway?"

"I guess."

And who said Fries was particularly un-talkative? thought William to himself.

Elizabeth finally pulled up and helped William into the seat. On the way home, she seemed to have no trouble getting Robin to talk. William began to think maybe he didn't have a gift with children. He just happened to get along with some of them, like Eva and Fries.

Charles had agreed to chauffeur Fries and William to the evening party. On the way, William gave Fries a lecture.

"Don't be rude to anyone, even if they're rude to you. Don't drink any of the champagne, even after you've played your pieces. Remember your P's and Q's. Don't accept any engagements of appointments. Have them call your mother. Don't shock people with your past--be discrete and polite."

Fries, who sat alone in the back seat, rolled his eyes. William sounded like he was his father. Even Elizabeth hadn't been this bad. Fries was dressed in his tuxedo, his shaggy, brown hair falling into his face frequently. He had a bad habit of raking his hands through it and pushing it out of his face. Though it annoyed Elizabeth, it made the girls who were just coming to the age of admiration of the opposite sex swoon. William didn't mind since he could remember his longhaired phase. Besides, it was quite becoming of a romantic musician to have the hairstyle.

Charles finally hit William's leg to make him stop.

"That was stupid considering I can't feel my legs," snorted William.

"It wasn't intended to hurt. It was meant to make you shut up," replied Charles.

They pulled up to a mansion grander and newer than the Bennet mansion. William found himself comparing it to the Bennet mansion and preferring Elizabeth's home more. It was more welcoming and homier than this piece of grandiose architecture.

Charles helped William into the wheelchair, and then helped him up the steps into the house. Fries followed meekly behind. They rang the doorbell. The hostess, who had initially asked for Fries to perform for her gathering, came forth in a blinding flash of white sequins and an expanse of flesh above the low neckline. He hair was done up quite fashionably with diamond barrettes. And her face wore an abundance of makeup heavily applied.

"Why it's the young pianist! And his chaperone."

William forced a smile and said, "Hello, I'm William Darcy."

"Of course, dear. Come right on in and make yourself at home."

She had a rather high-pitched, loud voice--but had the rounded tone of one who had once gone to voice lessons and speech training.

William followed Fries inside after giving the boy a warning 'Look'.

Inside, there was more display of opulent wealth. Chandeliers, servants, crystal, and delicacies floating about on serving trays. The hostess was soon introducing Fries to plenty of people in the room. William moved to a more obscure spot to watch the room from. He was impressed with how well Fries was moving in this awkward society. He smiled his charming smile and spoke a few words here and there, listening most attentively and nodding his head at something important. If William hadn't known better, he would have said Fries was brought up in this society. At one point, someone pushed Fries into trying some caviar. He hesitatingly ate the fish eggs and forced a smile on his face as he held the revolting delicacy in his mouth. William continued to watch with great amusement as he excused himself with a small bow, turned around, grabbed a napkin, and when he thought no one was looking, hastily spit the food into the napkin. Within ten seconds he was back to his suave musician self. He deposited the offending napkin onto a passing servant's tray and then moved back into the crowd.

An hour later, the hostess ushered Fries to the grand piano standing at the centre of the living room. William moved forward to get a better view of his friend playing. He had a distinct disadvantage from being so short, so he reconciled himself to just listening.

In a clear, confident voice, Fries announced the pieces he would be playing that night. He sat down, adjusted the piano bench, and then began to play so beautifully. The notes seemed to just flow from his fingers so naturally. Each note was clear and enunciated so that the music was heard as it should be--without any missing notes, without any obscured notes, and without any blurred notes.

William sunk his head into his hands and just let the music wash over him. He imagined most of the audience would be doing the same thing. It was magical, inspiring, and uplifting to the soul.

Finally, the exquisite torture ended in a twinkling arpeggio up the keyboard. Fries held his hands on the keys until the last notes had died away, and that most precious of all silences hung in the air for mere seconds. Then he gracefully lifted them up and into his lap as the applause immediately responded. Fries stood up, smiling just enough. He bowed once, smiled at the audience, and then half bowed again before sitting down to play the second piece.

The second one was fast and furious. It made the listener hold their breath to think that anyone could move so fast on the keys, let alone this twelve-year-old boy! The piece continued on for five minutes before slowing down for a relatively slower section. Then the first theme picked up again, and it ended in a fast flurry of notes leading to three loud cords.

This time, there was no pause before the audience began to applaud. Fries smiled more this time, and William figured it was from relief that he had not messed up during the difficult passages.

Three more pieces later, Fries ended his concert, and stepped away from the piano for a final bow. People immediately came forward to thank him, praise him, and some of them even to engage him at their parties.

An hour and a half later, Charles showed up at the door to pick up William and Fries. The hostess showed them to the door, thanking Fries profusely. She handed him a cheque and said farewell.

Once he was in the car, Fries looked at the cheque. It was made out to Fries Bennet for one hundred pounds. Fries' eyes boggled. "Wow!" he exclaimed.

"What is it?" asked William.

"I got paid one hundred pounds."

"Well done. You deserved it," replied William.

"Really?"

"Of course. You played excellently."

"That's good."

William chuckled. "Yes, it is 'good'."

Charles began to ask Fries about the party. Who did he meet, what did he play, what did he eat, did he like it, and so on. During a pause in the conversation, Fries asked, "William. What's my real name?"

"I don't know. Why?"

"Well, this cheque is to Fries Bennet. But it's not my real name."

"I don't know what to do about that. Talk to your mother."

"Ok." Fries got a strange, pleasant feeling when people referred to Elizabeth as his mother. It made him feel like he belonged to someone. He could claim Elizabeth as his mother.

Charles dropped Fries off at the mansion. William couldn't help feeling a little disappointed not to see Elizabeth. Overall, the evening hadn't turned out so badly, but he wasn't sure he would like to repeat it.

Chapter 9

Posted on Friday, 24 August 2001

"What are you doing?" asked William.

"I'm checking my email. Why?"

"Why are you squinting?"

"I'm not squinting."

"You were."

"No, I wasn't."

William looked at him hard for a minute. Fries squirmed a little under the gaze. Finally, William moved beside Fries who sat at William's desk. He looked at Fries again and said, "Read me something from the screen."

"I'm not going to read you my emails," Fries protested.

William lifted one eyebrow and simply brought up a document on the screen. "Read that, then."

Fries sighed. He leaned forward slightly and began to read the words. William gently pushed him back against the chair. Fries sighed again and read more. William watched him and before long Fries was squinting ever so slightly.

"You're squinting," William stated.

"William, what are you up to? So what? I'm squinting."

"So... you need to go see an optometrist."

"No, I don't. I'm fine."

"Which is why you have to squint to read what's on a regular computer screen?"

"It's just a habit I have. It doesn't mean anything."

William looked at him curiously. Why was he in denial?

"Besides," continued Fries. "Mum is the one who takes care of me."

"Elizabeth has eight other children to take care of and can sometimes miss a small detail like a boy squinting."

Fries got up angrily from the desk. "I can't believe you're making a big deal over nothing!"

William followed him out of his office. He found Fries in the kitchen getting himself a drink. William paused for a few minutes, watching the boy.

"Fries," William said gently. "You cannot afford to be careless with your eyes."

Fries snorted derisively.

"I'm serious. If you let a minor problem like this persist, you can severely damage your eyesight. And where would you be then as a great musician?"

Fries, who had his back to William, froze.

William continued, "You have to take care of yourself. Go and see the optometrist and see what they say. Maybe you're right and I'm wrong. I don't know. But I do know you will regret it by ignoring the problem."

Fries didn't say anything for a while. He took a sip of his drink and turned around, leaning on the counter.

"I don't want glasses."

"You might not have to get glasses."

"But you're right, William. I do have trouble reading and stuff. But I don't want glasses."

"You don't have to get glasses. You could ask Elizabeth to let you use contacts."

Fries rolled his eyes. "That would be such a pain in the butt. To stick pieces of plastic into my eyes every single morning just to see?"

"Plenty of people in the world do it. It is possible. If you don't like contacts, what's wrong with glasses?"

"I'd look ugly in them!"

William looked at him oddly. "How do you know?"

Fries' face turned sheepish. "I've tried on other people's before."

"But they probably didn't suit you. You would get glasses that looked good on you. And besides, when were you ever vain?"

"I'm not vain," Fries protested. "I just don't want to perpetuate the stereotype of me being a nerd."

"Well, honestly, I think we could find a pair of glasses that would make you quite grown up. If you even need them."

"Will you go with me?"

"Where? To the optometrist?"

Fries nodded.

"I guess, if you really want me to."

Fries walked into the kitchen holding Magic in his arms. He hopped onto the counter. Elizabeth was chopping up vegetables. She looked up at him.

"Hello, darling. How was your visit with William?"

"Fine, as usual."

She went back to chopping the vegetables.

"Mum," began Fries.

"Yes, dear?" she replied without looking up.

"Can you take me to an eye doctor?"

She looked up at him. "Why?"

"I don't see things close up very well."

"Really? How long have you had difficulty?"

He shrugged.

"Why do you come to me now?"

"William noticed me squinting." Fries sighed. "He gave me this long lecture about taking care of myself. I'm sure if I didn't tell you, he'd find out and tell you himself."

"He's right, you know."

"Just want I wanted to hear," he said sarcastically.

"I'll call the optometrist and set up an appointment."

"Mum, I want William to come with me if I have to pick out frames for glasses."

"Sure. Why do you want him to come?"

Fries shrugged. "For moral support."

Elizabeth chuckled, then said, "Hey, get him out of my kitchen. You know he's not supposed to be in here. He sheds all over the food!"

Fries grinned at her, and slid off the counter to walk out the kitchen.

"Fries," she called after him. He paused in the doorway. "If you're not doing anything particular, would you be an angel and check on your younger brothers and sisters?"

Fries nodded and left.

William called the Bennet mansion with the intention of talking to Fries. Elizabeth picked up the phone.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Elizabeth, it's William."

"Oh, hi. How are you?"

"I'm fine. And you?"

Elizabeth gave a short laugh. "Funny you should ask.... Ben! Stop it! This instant. Go up to your room." Elizabeth sighed. "I'm okay." Then suddenly she swore softly. William heard a hissing noise, like water boiling over the pot onto the stove. He heard pots banging and then "Ow! Frickin' bloody hellfire!!"

"Elizabeth? Are you okay?"

"No! I frickin' burnt my hand."

"Go and put ice on it."

"I know what to do!" she snapped, irritated.

Just as William thought the crisis was over, he heard in the background a cat scream followed by a child's scream and crying then glass smashing onto the kitchen floor.

"Oh! Baby, I'm so sorry," soothed Elizabeth. "Magic didn't mean to hurt you. You hurt him so he was frightened."

The words didn't seem to have any affect on the child as she cried and cried. "Let's go put a band-aid on this and make it all better."

A minute later, William heard Elizabeth yell for Fries to pick up the phone. She said to William, "I'm sorry, William. I have to go."

"Wait, Elizabeth. Why don't I take you out tonight?"

"Are you joking?"

"No. You sound like you need a break. Let's just go someplace quiet for a while."

"William, I can't. I'm needed here."

"Is Jane there?"

"Yes."

"Can't she hold down the fort?"

"Yes, but what if-"

"Elizabeth, you need the break. Come on. We'll just go out and grab a bite to eat."

"Did you call with the intention of dragging me away from my duties or did this just occur to you?"

"It just occurred to me. You can't burn yourself out."

"Funny you should mention burn," she said sarcastically.

"Is that a yes?" pushed William.

Elizabeth hesitated.

"Put Jane on the phone," William said.

"No, no. All right. I'll go out with you tonight. Just let me fix the current crises and I'll be over."

"Good."

"You don't take no for an answer, do you?" she accused.

"Well, I can, just not when I know I'm right."

"See you in about half an hour, then."

"Good bye."

Forty-five minutes later, a worn and frazzled Elizabeth knocked on William's door.

"Who could that be?" wondered Charles, starting towards the door.

"It's Elizabeth," replied William, grabbing his coat and wallet. "We're going out."

"Tonight? Isn't this a bit late?"

"We're just going to have a casual meal. Nothing big."

William opened the door. He smiled at Elizabeth, who managed a small smile in return.

"That bad, huh?" asked William.

Elizabeth nodded and rubbed her eyes.

"Come on. Let's go cheer you up."

Elizabeth laughed a little.

"See? It's working already."

"You're really full of it, aren't you?"

"Well, haven't you always known that?"

"I guess."

They went to Elizabeth's van and she helped him in. They drove to a nearby late-night café. They sat down in a booth in the corner, and ordered a small meal.

When Elizabeth had a cup of coffee nursing in her hands, she began to relax a bit more.

"Tell me what's wrong."

Elizabeth sighed. "You heard most of it."

"I think there's more than just what I heard," replied William. He reached across the table, and took Elizabeth's right hand gently in his. He stroked it. "How bad is the burn?"

"Not that bad," she said and then grimaced when he touched it lightly.

"You ought to cover it."

"I know. I didn't have the chance."

"So tell me what's wrong."

Elizabeth didn't say anything for some time- she just stared into her coffee cup, thinking. William waited patiently for a reply.

Finally, she said, "It all seems like this never-ending cycle. All my time is devoted to the children or the patients we feed. And... well... sometimes I get depressed. I wish I could get away from it all. I wish I could see an end. Other mothers can look forward to the time when their children are old enough to care for themselves. I don't. I always seem to have a number of children who constantly need my attention. And... it's wearing."

"If you had the opportunity, would you stop being a foster mother?"

"I think about that often, and... I don't think so. Well, A) I would feel too guilty about all the children who needed my love and skills and don't get them. And B) I don't know what I would do instead."

"What would you change if you could change anything?"

Elizabeth laughed a small laugh. "I wish- I wish someone else was there to help me."

"Isn't Jane there enough?"

"Yes, but I mean someone more."

"Like a husband?"

She looked at him sharply. "Maybe."

"I think you need more companionship of your own age. When was the last time you did something without the kids?"

Elizabeth avoided his steady gaze. "I guess when we went to see the Pirates of Penzance."

"See? And how many friends do you have your own age?"

"Two."

"Charles and I? Or is there someone else and I don't count?"

"And how do you suggest I make friends my own age? Are you going to wave your magic wand and make them appear? It's not always a question of just meeting people my own age. I also have to be compatible, have similar interests and stuff like that. And I don't tend to find that in other people."

"Maybe you don't get out enough, then."

"That's a stupid answer, William," she snapped. "I can't get out more. I have nine children at home who need me. And I don't have a problem devoting my life to them."

"So... you get this irritated from what? Drinking too much coffee? Being around the cat?"

"What would you suggest instead, Einstein? Give up on the children for a night? Leave them to an incompetent teenage baby-sitter?"

"No."

"You're full of advice and not much solutions."

"You're right," William finally said. "I'm sorry. I was only trying to help."

"Don't think I haven't given it a lot of thought. I've had bad days like this sporadically for years."

They didn't say anything for a while. Their food arrived and they ate in silence for several more minutes. Then William asked, "Did Fries tell you he needs to see an optometrist?"

Elizabeth nodded. "He said he wants you to help him pick frames. What's up with that?"

"Fries is self-conscious about wearing glasses, which is why he hasn't mentioned the problem to you before. I said he could find glasses that made him look older and more sophisticated. So he wants me to come and help pick them out if the case need be."

Elizabeth laughed a little. "I never thought Fries would be so vain."

"I don't think he's being vain. He just doesn't want to be labeled the nerd anymore than he is now."

"People call him a nerd?"

"Apparently."

"I wonder why he hasn't mentioned it to me before."

"And what would you have done?" challenged William.

"Well, I would talk to whoever did it."

"And what good would that do? They'd label him a mama's boy or a wimp or something worse. You can't fight his battles for him."

"But still, I would expect him to tell me."

"Elizabeth, Fries won't always tell you everything. Even between the two of us, we won't ever know everything about Fries. You're lucky to know as much as you do. How many mothers have no clue how to reach out to their teenage son?"

"Fries isn't a teenager, yet."

"You'll see. You two are so close, but you won't ever know everything."

"Since when were you so wise about raising children?"

"Never. I'm just learning with Fries."

"Well, maybe you should write a book."

"You're the one who should write a book. I'm sure you have tons of great stories and anecdotes about children you've had in the past. The funny things they say and do. The scrapes they get into and the problems they've overcome."

"I'm sure it's a great idea, William. But where would I ever find the time?"

"I don't know. I guess that's why such a book has never been written."

"Maybe when I'm old and grey."

The two continued to talk for another half an hour. Then Elizabeth said she should be getting home. "I don't get to sleep in," she reminded him. "I have to get up with the earliest riser in my brood."

"You never sleep in?"

"Once in a blue moon Jane will turn off my alarm and let me sleep in, but my body usually wakes me within an hour of the alarm anyway."

Elizabeth drove William home. "Thank you, William. I do feel better now."

"Good. That was my intention."

"Good night, William."

"Good night."

The following week, William went with Fries and Elizabeth to the optometrist. The doctor did find that Fries needed glasses to be able to see things close up. That visit, they were shown hundreds of frames to choose from, and William and Fries looked through them until they all found one they thought suited Fries and made him look even more intelligent. They were gold wire rimmed, with oval lenses. Fries went home feeling almost proud of his new glasses. The doctor informed the boy he would receive his new glasses the following week and he was to wear them all the time.

One night, William was woken by the telephone. He picked it up and glanced at the clock. It said 2:37 am.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Charles?" asked a timid voice on the other line.

"No, this is William. Who is this?"

"It's Storm."

"Storm? Why are you calling at this hour? Is anything wrong?"

It sounded like Storm was crying. Her breaths were short and violent and she sniffed occasionally. "Oh William!" she said. Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Can you come get me?" Her voice pleaded, "Please William. Get me out of here. I need... I need to get away." She began to cry more.

William pulled himself upright in his bed, more awake now. "Storm, where are you? Aren't you at home?"

"No. I'm at a party."

"Why don't you call Elizabeth? Can't you reach her?"

"Please William, don't tell Elizabeth. She can't know. I can't disappoint her. She'll get mad at me and she'll have that look in her eye and-"

"Storm. She won't be angry. She'll help you."

"But she'll still know. Please William."

"I can't drive, you know that."

"Can Charles come get me? I don't know where else to turn."

Storm's pleads had their affect.

"All right, calm down. Take a deep breath and tell me where you are."

Storm did as she was told, and William memorized the directions.

"Hang on there. Find a place that's safe and we'll be on our way."

"Thank you so much, William."

William hung up and yelled for Charles. His roommate was used to the calls in the night, and quickly came into William's room.

"What's the matter?" asked a sleepy Charles.

"We need to go pick up Storm from some party on the east side of town."

"Why?" he asked, puzzled.

"She's in great distress. I'll tell you on the way. I don't know much."

Charles helped William get dressed and into the wheelchair. Once in the car, William explained the weird phone call. Half an hour later, they pulled up to a large house in a suburban neighborhood. Cars were parked in the streets and driveway. Teenagers milled around on the lawn, a couple already passed out on the grass. Charles went in alone to find Storm.

The house was filled with teenagers, most of them holding a drink in one hand. Through the mess, Charles found Storm huddled in one corner, her face buried in her hands. Gently, he knelt beside her and she looked up with fear. When she recognized Jane's boyfriend, she flung her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder.

"Shh," he murmured. "It's all right. Let's get you home."

He helped her stumble out of the madhouse to the street where William sat, warily keeping an eye on the three boys staring with mischief at their car.

Charles helped Storm into the car, and she promptly collapsed on the back seat. William decided to wait before he questioned her about what she was doing at a party like this in the first place.

They drove home in silence, and Charles helped Storm into the apartment. She collapsed back onto the sofa and was soon fast asleep. She just managed to murmur a thank you before she slipped into unconsciousness.

The following morning, Charles left for work leaving William to question Storm. She slept late, so he just left her alone and worked at his desk in the office.

Finally, she awoke and William suggested she take a shower before they talked. She knew they would have to talk. It was inevitable.

When she was finally sitting down at the kitchen table, he joined her to eat a late lunch.

"So what happened last night."

She ran her hand through her died green hair. "You won't tell Elizabeth will you?"

"Not unless you've done something illegal."

"No, even if I have done something illegal. Please, William, promise me you won't tell her. Or Jane."

"I can't promise you. I will think of what is best for you and act upon that basis."

"Then I won't talk," she replied stubbornly.

"You're not in a position to negotiate. I will tell Elizabeth where you were and what you were like last night. But if you talk to me, there's a bigger likelihood she won't find out."

She sighed a deep, gusty sigh. A stubborn sigh. A sigh of one trapped unwillingly.

"I was invited to this party. There was going to be just a few people there, nothing big. So I went. And I told Elizabeth I would be at Janna's house. So Janna picked me up and then we went to this place. And more people showed up and then the beer and then the heavier alcohol and then the drugs. And I didn't want to do any of it like usual. And usually my friends respect me for it. But this time they were really pressuring me to do it. Even my boyfriend. But I didn't want to. I knew what it led to. My mother had ruined her life and nearly mine with the stuff. Later in the night, they put some stuff in my soda. I don't know what it was, but it made me have these strange visions. And they were making fun of me because I was reacting so badly to the drug. And I couldn't walk straight or think straight. My boyfriend tried to rape me but I was aware enough to prevent it. And I just locked myself in the bathroom for two hours, huddling in the dark and praying for salvation. When I was finally conscious enough to remember your phone number, I crawled to the nearest phone and called you."

"Why won't you tell Elizabeth?"

"Because she'll be disappointed in me."

"Why?"

"Because I was at the party."

"But you didn't know it was going to be like that."

"Well, I kind of knew that parties often turn wild."

"You sound guiltless to me."

"Please don't tell her, William."

"I won't. I'm just urging you to do so."

"You think I should tell her?"

"I really do think so. She'll be understanding and loving and supportive, and probably angry enough to go after someone. Like the parents of that house, your friends, or your boyfriend. Actually, on second thought, I'll go after them. What's your boyfriend's name? Where does he live?"

"William, don't be stupid. It's okay."

"No, Storm, it's not okay. How can you be attached to someone who would do you such harm?"

"He didn't know any better. He was drunk. They all were drunk."

"Oh, so they're good kids except when they're drunk, right?"

"Yes."

"I can't believe this."

"You don't understand, William. A lot of kids in high school drink."

"Why?"

"Because it's the accepted thing to do. It's cool."

"You're all nuts."

Storm chose to ignore this comment.

William asked, "Why do you put yourself in such situations?"

"I didn't know it was going to be like that. They've never treated me like that before."

"What are you going to do when you meet up with them again?"

"I'll pretend that nothing happened. They probably won't remember it anyway."

"I can't believe this," William muttered again. "I don't understand how you can consider these people as your friends."

"You don't understand," she sighed.

"You're right, I don't."

"So how do you expect Elizabeth to be understanding if you can't be?"

"I'm understanding. I just don't understand."

"Whatever," she said.

"Will you tell her?"

"Yes," she sighed.

"Can I ask her in a couple of days if she knows where you were last night so I know she knows?"

"Fine."

"Since I can't drive you home and Charles isn't expected until later today after work, do you want to call Elizabeth right now to come and pick you up?"

"I guess so."

Storm did so, and William returned to work while Storm watched TV until Elizabeth arrived.

William answered the door when Elizabeth rang the doorbell.

"What is Storm doing at your place?" was the first thing she said.

"Hello to you, too," retorted William.

"Hello William. What is Storm doing here?"

"She'll tell you herself. I think she's ready to leave. This place wasn't exactly equipped to entertain a teenager."

Storm said a quick thank you, and then walked out to the car.

Elizabeth turned to William.

Defensively, William said, "Charles and I picked her up when she called at 2:30 this morning. She'll tell you the rest."

"Thank you, then."

"Go easy on her, will you?" said William as Elizabeth walked out the door. "She's had a really rough time, and I had to convince her to tell you anything."

William was never told the full repercussions of Storm's night out. William presumed it wasn't her first. Fries just informed him that Storm wasn't allowed to go out with those friends for two weeks. William guessed Elizabeth was trying to persuade Storm to forsake those friends. William doubted if Storm would do it, though.

Chapter 10

Posted on Tuesday, 4 September 2001

For a while, things were actually going really smoothly. ...Well, Elizabeth still had the occasional rodent on the doorstep to dispose of, and of course the usual squabbles children get into. But on the whole, Elizabeth's life was quite tame. She had not had a call to come pick up a child since the night Eva came to stay at the Bennet mansion. Fries continued to give performances for benefits, charities, and a high society party once in a while. Elizabeth would catch Fries' hands and fingers twitching in his sleep every so often.

Eva became a chatterbox. Once she learned it was okay to talk to people, and that they would reply, and that usually they enjoyed the conversation, she was insatiable. It surprised Elizabeth the most, since her experienced and educated mind had been expecting her to be more like Fries- quiet-spoken and shy. On the contrary, Elizabeth had to start reminding Eva to use her 'inside' voice. And once, Elizabeth caught herself from very nearly telling Eva the 's' word! (Shut up). Elizabeth had counted to ten and then calmly asked Eva to wait until she could pay more attention to what she was saying. Eva, not wanting Elizabeth to miss one word, cheerfully acquiesced and waited until dinnertime.

It was a lull for the Bennet mansion in regards to perspective new parents. A couple hadn't been by to visit in several months. A couple of the young girls asked if anyone was going to want them anymore. Elizabeth had to assure them it was only a matter of time and patience.

Elizabeth woke up one morning with a distinct feeling of contentment. It might have had something to do with the fact that she wasn't woken up by yelling, screaming, crying, things smashing on the floor, or doors banging. But besides this sense of peace, Elizabeth felt content. As she lay in her bed, she reflected over how fortunate she was to have such a profession. Everyday she woke up to make a difference in these kids' lives. Everyday she tried to improve the world around her. Sometimes she failed, but most of the time, she succeeded. She just didn't stop to appreciate what she did very often. This particular morning, Elizabeth did look back on what she had accomplished and was proud of herself. In a good way. In a rather bewildering, disbelieving way. It is often difficult for a self to realize how profound the self is. For a few precious moments, Elizabeth felt the world was perfect.

Then the phone rang and the feeling flew away. With a very sad sigh, Elizabeth shoved the covers off of her, and picked it up. It was a man from the social workers' office asking her to come in for an appointment that afternoon. To Elizabeth's dismay, she checked her calendar and 'to do' list and found she did actually have time for this dratted appointment. It was arranged and Elizabeth hung up.

Elizabeth paused to consider climbing back into the very inviting bed once more for a few extra moments of contentment. But she heard yelling from the boys' hall and the morning began its usual cacophony and chaos. It was time to get the children to school.

Elizabeth walked into the social workers' office fifteen minutes late. "I'm so sorry about my tardiness. I had a couple of disasters in the car."

Disaster was rather an understatement. She had a tomato ketchup stain down her white blouse, she limped along wearing a pair of shoes with one of the heels broken off, her mascara was smeared under one eye making her look as if she had a shiner, and her hair had whisps escaping their ties all around her face. She sat down and dumped her large handbag filled with mothers' necessities on the floor beside her with a heaving sigh.

She looked around. Ed was sitting behind his desk, but it wasn't littered with the usual files, papers, coffee mugs, and half-eaten lunches. It was conspicuously clean. Sitting in chairs at the other corner of the desk was a young couple. A very wealthy, composed, sophisticated young couple. Elizabeth guessed these were prospective parents. But usually they came straight to the mansion. Why was Ed bothering with them? And even more importantly, why was his desk clean for them? Who were these people?

"Hi," said Elizabeth.

The man managed a slight, patronizing smile. The woman just looked down her nose at Elizabeth.

Elizabeth turned to look at Ed, who was wearing a suit for once.

Nervously, he put his elbows on the desk, and said, "Elizabeth, this is Mr. and Mrs. Biltmore. They have come here to adopt Fries."

"There must be some mistake. Fries isn't available for adoption."

"Elizabeth, all of your children are available for adoption. You run a foster home."

"You are mistaken, Ed. All of the children have the choice of being adopted. And Fries has had several offers in the past and has made it quite clear to me that he is not interested. Neither, I believe, is Storm. Any of the other children would be willing to look into the possibility. It always depends upon the parents." It was Elizabeth's turn to look at the Mrs. Biltmore scornfully.

"Generally we let you handle this, Elizabeth, but we feel in this case, you may not be thinking of what's best for the child."

Elizabeth was dumbfounded. She couldn't speak for a full minute.

"Mr. and Mrs. Biltmore have taken a keen interest in Fries and would like to have him as their son. They are quite financially secure and would take good care of him."

Elizabeth regained her power of speech. ...A bit too much, I would say. "'Take good care of him'? You'll 'take good care of him'? How would you know how to do that?" she asked the couple. Without waiting for an answer, she turned to Ed, "And how can you be the judge of that? Do you know these people well? I know you don't know Fries! How could you possibly know?"

"Now Elizabeth, don't get irate."

"Don't patronize me, Ed," Elizabeth hissed through her clenched teeth. "I will never allow my children to leave my care unless they want to. Mr. and Mrs. Biltmore are... welcome... to come to the Bennet mansion and meet with Fries, as is the custom in my experience, and if he is agreeable, we shall talk again. But without his consent, I will not let you snatch him away."

"Elizabeth you have no choice. He is in the state's custody. You have temporary responsibility for him only. It is better for him to be adopted than to live in this permanent state of limbo. It will be good for him to belong to someone."

"He does belong to someone! He belongs to me! He is my son. He calls me mother. He loves me as I love him, as a mother loves her son. You cannot take him away from me."

"You are thinking of only yourself, Elizabeth. You have to think of the child."

"I am. He's already lost one mother. It will be devastating to him to lose another. If you ask him, and he says he wants to go with the Biltmores, then fine. I will gladly give him up because I love him that much. But if he says no, I will fight until the fires of hell freeze over to protect him."

"You will lose your license if you are not careful."

"You wouldn't dare. How many impossible cases have I taken and turned into bright, caring young children? I have built up my reputation as one of the best rehabilitators in the country."

"You can't pull rank in this. It will not matter. And you cannot go to court because you have no legal standing. Elizabeth, there you are powerless. We have decided it is best for Fries to be adopted."

Elizabeth closed her mouth, and began to contain the boiling anger within herself. After two minutes of deafening silence, Elizabeth asked quietly, "May I ask how you met Fries?"

"We've seen him at several parties we've gone to," said Mr. Biltmore. He had a nasal, Cambridge accent.

"He was so charming and talented, we felt we would just love to adopt the little boy." Mrs. Biltmore's voice was extremely haughty and also, surprisingly, had a nasal tone to it.

Elizabeth snorted. "And if Fries wasn't so talented, would you have adopted him? Would you have noticed him in the condition he came to me in? If Fries suddenly decides he doesn't want to pursue music anymore, and instead wishes to complete a sociology degree will you still care for him? I think not."

"If you are worried about your investment, we will pay you for the money you spent on the piano tutors of course." Mr. Biltmore didn't even seem to have heard what Elizabeth had just said.

"I can't believe this!" Elizabeth muttered to herself. She turned to Ed. "You should be fired for this!"

"On the contrary, Elizabeth. I expect a promotion."

Elizabeth snapped. She stood up, picked up her handbag, walked to the door, opened it, walked through it, and slammed it as hard as she could. She stalked out and jumped into the van, slamming her car door as well.

The whole drive home she was thinking. Thinking and thinking. By the time she reached the Bennet mansion, she was somewhat calmer. She wanted to speak to Fries immediately, but he was at his piano lesson. Elizabeth talked to Jane instead.

Jane listened patiently, though not without her own share of distress at the news.

When Fries finally returned home, Elizabeth followed him into his practice room.

Fries noticed her distress, but waited patiently for her to tell him whatever the news was.

"Fries..." she started. "Do you wish to be adopted?"

Fries gave a little snort. "Of course not. Wherever did you get such an idea? You're my mother."

Elizabeth's face broke into a smile and tears started to come to her eyes as she held out her arms to hug Fries. Though he was getting to the age where hugs from mothers were uncool, he nevertheless went to her and let her crush his small body to her.

When she finally let go, he asked, "Now will you tell me what brought this on?"

"There's a couple who are trying to adopt you."

"I haven't met anyone."

"Apparently you have. At a couple of parties."

"Well that could be any number of people."

"Do you recognize the name Biltmore?"

He thought for a minute, then shook his head. "All those snobby names sound the same after a while. So I say I don't want to be adopted and that's the end of it. Why the tears?"

Elizabeth wiped her eyes (smearing her mascara even more dreadfully- but Fries tactfully ignored it) and said, "The state may sign you over no matter what you say."

"They can't do that! I'll run away before I live with some twat like them!"

"I know, Fries. Calm down," Elizabeth said hypocritically. "I'm going to see what I can do, all right?"

Fries nodded, clearly distressed still.

Elizabeth left him to his practicing and began to call connections.

Fries meanwhile, tried to concentrate on his practicing but found it rather repulsive under the circumstances. If he hadn't been so good at piano, he wouldn't have been invited to play at parties. And if he weren't playing at parties, no rich couple would be trying to kidnap him from Elizabeth.

Fries decided to call William. William listened quietly, but was just as alarmed and outraged as Elizabeth had been. He didn't do anything at the moment, but decided to wait and see if Elizabeth could sort things out on her own. William thought he would rather like to adopt Fries himself.

The following evening, William hitched a ride to the Bennet mansion from Charles. Jane directed William to the study. He knocked on the door and waited until Elizabeth said come in. He slowly opened the door, and poked his head in.

Elizabeth saw him and forced a smile.

"William. What a pleasant surprise. Do come in."

He wheeled himself in, shutting the door behind him.

"How are you?" she asked.

"I'm ok. How are you?"

"Me? Oh, I'm just dandy." She avoided eye contact, and aimlessly shuffled some papers on her desk.

"I heard about what's happening."

Her charade dropped instantly. "You did?"

William nodded.

Elizabeth broke down into tears again, sagging into her desk chair and burying her face in her arms on the desk.

Alarmed, William moved behind the desk and awkwardly laid a comforting arm around her shoulders.

"Elizabeth, there's no way they could take Fries away from you. You're his mother. You made him who he is today."

She sobbed a little more on William's shoulder, and then managed to compose herself somewhat. "I've tried everything I've thought of. But I have no power under the law."

"Why don't you adopt him yourself?" he asked.

"I tried to today, but the Biltmores are considered better parents on paper. They're rich and young and... and... and married." She began to cry again.

"But you're wealthy and young, too."

"But I'm single. And they won't let me adopt him."

"Marry me, then," William blurted out.

He surprised them both.

"What?"

"Marry me. Then Fries will be our son for good."

Elizabeth laughed a little. "That's very noble of you, William. But marriages don't work when it's just for the child. You don't have to do that."

"Do you have another solution? Elizabeth, plenty of people marry for practical reasons."

"Marriage is sacred, though. It shouldn't be taken lightly."

"I'm not taking it lightly."

"When did you come up with this idea?" she asked.

William didn't want to tell her the truth- that he had wanted to for a long time. "Umm, that isn't the point. Tell me, is there some better plan you have in mind for keeping Fries? Is there some better husband you could find? One who would love Fries more than I do, one who would support you better than I will? If there is, then marry him. If there isn't, marry me."

"What happens after we're married?"

"We adopt Fries."

"What about after that?"

"It's up to you."

"What do you mean it's up to me? This is your idea."

"Well... usually, married couples live together and raise children."

"Are you suggesting that's what you want to do?"

"I would be more than willing to move in and help you out with the children. But this house isn't exactly conducive to a handicapped man. And provided you want me around at all."

"Of course I'd want you around. I'm not heartless, William. And actually, this house has an elevator. Granted it's a bit antique, but I'm sure I could get someone to look at it and make sure it's still sound. I've locked it up to prevent the kids playing on it."

"Why in the world does this house have an elevator?"

"My father had one installed so that when he was drunk he could make it to his bedroom." She laughed at William's skeptical look. "I'm serious. I wasn't surprised to find he was a drinker. And being such a sophisticated gentleman, it galled him that he couldn't pass out on his own bed."

"How very convenient."

There was a pause. Then Elizabeth asked in a quiet voice, "Are you serious about this? I don't want to be trapping you into a marriage you would despise."

"Trust me, Elizabeth. I won't feel trapped. Only blessed. The more I think about this idea, the more I like it. But I don't want to force you into anything. This has to be thoroughly mutual."

"I like the idea, too. As long as you are willing."

William laughed a little at their apprehension.

"So we get married, adopt Fries, I move into the Bennet mansion, and you will tell me immediately if you ever feel uncomfortable or anything like that."

"Agreed, as long as you do likewise."

"Well then. When does this take place?"

"Do you think we should tell anyone?" asked Elizabeth."

"I don't know. What do you think?"

"We can't do a big ceremony."

"Would you want one anyway?"

"No. Would you?"

"Not particularly. There's no one I would ask to it that is nearby anyway."

"So we go to the Justice of Peace and ask Jane and Charles to come?"

"Shouldn't we bring your children?"

Elizabeth winced. "Much as I love them, I'm not sure it would be a wise idea."

"But with all four adults away, who's going to look after the terrors?"

"Storm and Fries are usually capable of handling them. And though I would love to have those two with me, I can't have it both ways."

"We'll figure it out somehow."

"So we're telling Jane and Charles now?"

"And Fries. We should ask him if he's willing to be adopted by the two of us."

"I can't see him saying no considering the alternative."

"Let's go and ask him now. Jane will have supper on the table very soon if my nose is any reliable judge."

"All right then."

Elizabeth began to stand up. William stayed her. She looked at him questioningly.

"Are you sure about this?" William asked her seriously. "Or are you going to regret this in a day or two- or even a year from now?"

Elizabeth regarded him seriously. "I can't say for sure. Everyone has some doubts about a step as big as marriage. And for this to come so suddenly.... But I don't think we're being rash. I don't think I'll regret this. Even if things change some time from now and we're not happy with our arrangement- say if you find some other woman you want to marry- I still don't think I would consider the decision to be a bad one. Under the circumstances, it's the best solution."

William smiled at her. He rested one of his hands on her cheek. "I expect to be much happier as a husband and father with you than I am now. I want to thank you ahead of time."

Elizabeth laughed uneasily. "You'd do better to see how much work being a father of nine or ten will be before you thank me."

William leaned forward and chastely kissed her forehead, then let her go and turned his chair to leave the room.

"Where's Fries?" he asked as he left.

Elizabeth replied, "Check his music room first. He'll most likely be there."

They found Fries practicing diligently on his guitar. He stopped when they entered. Elizabeth pulled the piano bench up to Fries' chair and sat down. The lad looked expectantly at the couple.

William looked at Elizabeth, who gave him an exasperated look in return and began to explain their rather wild idea.

"William and I have come up with the only solution to the problem we can think of," she began. "I can't prevent you from being adopted by the Biltmores except by adopting you myself. But I can't adopt you myself since I'm single. So William and I are going to get married and adopt you if you are willing."

Fries looked understandably shocked. "You two? Married?"

William bristled a little bit. "What's wrong with that idea?"

"But that's so calculated."

"It's hardly a new concept. Look through the history books. Besides, do you have a better idea?"

"No."

"The question is, do you want to be adopted by us?"

"Of course I do."

"All right then. We'll probably do it in a quiet formal ceremony with just Jane and Charles. Do you mind?"

"I guess not."

"Any questions?" asked Elizabeth.

"What happens after I'm adopted?"

"William is going to move here."

"Wait," said Fries. "Does this mean I actually have to... obey William and stuff?"

Elizabeth chuckled. "Yes. It means he will be your father."

"That's weird," he said.

"Why is that weird?" asked an offended William.

"Because you're by best friend, not my dad!"

"William isn't going to turn into some domineering ogre once he gains the title of father. It doesn't work like that. Everything will be the same as before, he'll just be living here and helping out a whole lot more if he wants."

"Oh. Well that's cool."

"Good. If neither of you have anything more, we should get to the dining room. We're going to be late for supper."

"Do the others know?" asked Fries.

"You're the first to know," replied Elizabeth.

Fries smiled a cheeky grin. "I love being the first to know."

"That's probably because usually you're the last," Elizabeth mumbled.

It took some work to persuade Jane and Charles that this was a good idea and the only possible solution to keep Fries. When William and Charles were driving home, Charles asked about what would happen after the marriage and adoption.

"I'll move into the Bennet mansion."

"So I'm losing my flatmate, am I?"

"Yes. Much as I love living with you, Charles," William said sarcastically, "Did you really think it was forever? For goodness' sake, when are you and Jane getting married? It's ludicrous that Elizabeth and I are marrying- after having gone on one date- before you two."

"Frankly, the reason is because I didn't want to leave you on your own. I didn't know if you could live on your own."

"I cannot believe you didn't marry because of me! You could have told me at least."

"I didn't want to make you feel bad, like you are now."

"But that's just wrong! Of course I feel bad now. I've prevented you from marital bliss because I'm handicapped."

"Don't go getting those stupid ideas now. Things have turned out well in the end anyway. You get married, we get married."

"Are you moving in there as well, then?"

"I think so. It's not like there's not enough room for us here. And Jane is needed here."

"Well then. When are you going to get married?"

"Since this is news to us, we haven't set a date."

"Are you going to plan a big wedding?"

"I don't think so."

"Well why don't you come and get married with us?"

"You mean a double elopement?"

"I don't think of it as an elopement, but rather a private wedding."

"Maybe it's an idea. I'll have to ask Jane. I know I don't have any family I would want to ask. And you would be there, so that takes care of my best friend. But it'll have to be up to Jane."

"Of course. The women always have the last say."

"You're going to learn very quickly that that's the way things are in marriage."

"How would you know, you're not married."

"Oh, trust me. Jane and I are enough like a married couple for me to know that at least." There was a pause of silence. Then Charles asked, "Are you sure about this? It still seems a bit brash."

"Too noble an act for a guy like me, you mean?"

"No, that's not what I mean. But it's such a big step and you're taking it lightly."

"I've given it some thought. Honestly, Charles, and this stays between you and me, I jumped at the chance to ask her. You're going to laugh at me, and you're going to say it's not possible and it can't be real, but I love her. She means everything to me. And I've realized that for some time. So why wouldn't I want to marry her?"

"William! I had no idea. Haven't you told her?"

"No. I couldn't."

"So you're marrying the woman you love without her knowing of that love? That's just asking for trouble, man."

"I'm not going to take advantage of her."

"What do you think you're doing right now? You're taking advantage of this situation to marry her."

"But it's what she wants."

"Except she doesn't know the whole truth."

"It doesn't change anything."

"Yes it does. What happens when you become frustrated in the marriage? Any move you make when you're married will be very different than if you made it before."

William didn't reply for a minute. "So maybe this wasn't the brightest idea I've ever had. But I'm going to go through with it. I would have liked more time to go the usual way of things with Elizabeth. But Fries is in danger right now. So for his sake, things are going ahead of schedule."

"I hope things work out for you two."

"You better. You and Jane will be in the middle of things if they don't."

"Vice versa, my friend."

"As if you and Jane could ever have problems."

"You never know. Thirty years from now...."

"Thirty years from now I doubt we'll still be living together."

"I hope not. No offense."

They continued to talk as they walked into the apartment. It wasn't until one in the morning before they said good night and retired.

Jane agreed with Charles to wed with Elizabeth and William. The children were informed of the plans, but only a few of them had any idea of the implications. To them, it just meant the two men were moving in permanently instead of visiting often. It meant two new playmates. Or it meant two new pairs of watchful eyes. Or it meant two more people to talk to (Eva). Storm was genuinely happy for them. The fact that she might get more pocket money out of the men didn't occur to her, of course. She respected William ever since the night he had helped her out.

William and Charles immediately put their apartment on the market and began to pack up things to gradually move over to the mansion. Since the mansion was so well furnished anyway, much of their own furniture was to be sold or given away.

One of the issues on the top of William's mind was where he was to sleep. He doubted he would be in Elizabeth's room. One afternoon, as William sat in the kitchen watching Elizabeth prepare dinner, he got up the guts to ask Elizabeth.

"Well," she said as she chopped up some onions. "It's kind of a... a sticky question. I don't think I feel comfortable inviting you into my bedroom. There's a bedroom across from mine that is vacant. We can go look at it as soon as I finish slicing these if you want. There are a couple more bedrooms on the second floor and then there's the third floor, but I thought it would be a little difficult for you living on the third floor."

William nodded.

When she had finished chopping the onions, she washed her hands and started to walk towards a door that William had always supposed to be a closet or pantry. She opened it. Inside, was a small room with oak paneling and a green plaid carpet. She turned and beckoned him inside.

"Welcome to your own private elevator. Notice it is next to the back door so my father could get in and upstairs without anyone the wiser."

William wheeled himself inside.

"Just push the second floor." He did, and they slowly began to move up. "I had someone come in and look at it and she declared it to be sound. So all I had to do was clean it. A few spiders had taken residence until they starved to death, I'm sure."

"Thank you."

The elevator stopped at the second floor, and Elizabeth opened the inner and outer doors.

"Welcome..." she said, "to the second floor."

William followed her down the hall.

"This is the boys' wing."

William read all the names on the doors.

"Bathroom."

They passed the landing with the grand staircase sweeping down to the front door. This was what William had seen. They moved forward to the opposite wing.

"The girls' wing. Bathroom. And this is where Jane sleeps."

"So where do you sleep?"

"On the other end."

She showed him to the end of the hall, and then turned around and they went back past the elevator.

"This is the room I spoke of," she said. "It's conveniently close to the elevator, but it doesn't have a bathroom. So you can use mine. There's enough boys sharing the other bathroom as it is without exacerbating the problem with a man who has to shower and shave every morning. Is this agreeable to you?"

William looked at the room. It was decorated with dinosaurs in primary colours. His eyebrows rose.

"Well of course you would redecorate however you like."

It was bigger than his room in the flat. There were large windows and a decent sized closet. Everything else would be moved out or redecorated.

"I like it."

"Let me show you my room."

She walked across the hall, diagonal from the room William was to inhabit. He followed her in and looked around.

It had a quiet, understated elegance to it. The furniture was antique, Queen Anne revival. Her bed was queen-sized with soft yellow sheets sprinkled with small periwinkles.

"I made my bed for once. Usually this room is a mess. Just a warning."

William grinned at her. "I forgive you."

"Oh. Thanks," she replied sarcastically.

On one wall was a John Constable landscape painting and on another was a seascape. The walls were painted a soft blue and yellow curtains hung over the windows.

"It's a beautiful room."

"Thank you. My father's third wife actually had taste, thank goodness. I like this room. But I'm rarely in it except to sleep. So it's a peaceful place to me. It's quiet and it actually makes me sleepy just being in it. Come, here's the bathroom."

It was spacious and old fashioned like the room. The bath was porcelain and sat on four lion paws. The fixtures were gold and the rug on the floor was a dark violet color. White tiles lined the walls but for a line of tiles at breast-height which were decorated with vivid violets. A towel rack held matching violet towels. Above the sink was a mirror with a delicate gold trim.

"It's cute," said William.

"Cute?" she replied with the raising of one eyebrow.

William didn't rise to the bait.

Elizabeth asked hesitatingly, "William, is there anything you need in particular.... I mean, does Charles help you do things?"

William decided to be amused rather than embarrassed. She was obviously taking care of the embarrassment.

"I take baths. And I can take care of it myself generally. I'll yell if I need help."

"A-and how often does that happen?"

"Only about twice a week," he replied nonchalantly.

"Twice a week??"

"I'm joking. Don't worry about it. If you're uncomfortable with anything, Charles is literally right down the hall."

"Ok. All right. Are you sure?"

William chuckled. "Yes, I'm sure."

"Anything else?"

"What's upstairs?"

"Fries and Storm live upstairs and then there's the attics."

"Attics? You have more than one?"

"Yep. My father collected things, so we have a weird assortment of objects and antiques besides the usual Christmas decorations and boxes full of memorabilia."

"What kind of memorabilia?"

"Well," she started as she walked back into the bedroom and flopped down on her bed. She stared at the ceiling as she said, "I've sort of kept things done by all the children I've had. Things like artwork, school papers, pictures, and any other silly little things I can look at to remember them by. I have other boxes full of stuff I'm keeping for the children. Things that give them clues to their pasts. Like clothes they came in, dolls they loved and grew out of, and other things the authorities have given me. I ask for them specifically sometimes. Pictures of the children from earlier years... toys." Elizabeth turned on her side and propped her head on her hand, looking at William. "I keep important documents like medical forms and school reports in my office. I give them to the new parents when the children are adopted."

"Do you have Fries' things somewhere?"

Elizabeth nodded.

"Can I see them sometime?"

"Sure. Soon they'll be yours, too, anyway."

"Speaking of offices, Elizabeth, I work at home."

"Oh yeah." She thought for a moment. "I don't see why you can't work here, if that's what you're asking."

"Where would I do that?"

"I don't use my office except for the occasional business. You can take it over and use it as long as I can keep my files in there."

"I don't want to invade your space."

"Nonsense. I told you I don't use it."

"But you were using it when we talked about getting married."

"That was an exception. If I need to use it, I'll ask you. But on the whole, I only use it occasionally. We can rearrange it to your tastes, I'll consolidate my mess, and you'll be just fine. It's bigger than your current office."

"I still feel bad about it, though."

"Don't."

William smiled at her. She looked so innocent and young lying there on her bed. He couldn't resist the impulse to reach over and push an errant curl away from her face. "You still want to go through with this?"

"Have I given you any implication I don't?"

"No."

"Then stop asking."

She sat up suddenly and kissed the top of his head before walking out the door. William was left alone to deal with his roiling emotions. Okay. So maybe this wasn't the best idea in the world. It was going to be very difficult to keep living like this. To always be in her immediate vicinity.

He looked around the room once more. He felt the same peacefulness she described. A kind of Eden-like serenity. He left the room, closing the door gently behind him.

Fries met him in the hallway and said, "Come on. You wanna see my room since you're up here?"

"I thought it was on the third floor."

"It is. But I want to get the chance to be the first kid to ride in the elevator."

"You have a thing for being the first, don't you?"

"Hey, when you're a kid growing up with eight brothers and sisters, you gotta get ahead somehow."

"I thought you never had trouble getting ahead. You're so superior in everything you do."

"You're flattering me. And you shouldn't."

"Why shouldn't I?" William asked as the elevator moved up to the top floor.

"Because fathers shouldn't flatter."

"Why shouldn't they? If I'm proud of what you do, why shouldn't I say so? If you were horrible at everything and I still bragged about how good you were, that's one thing. But when the whole world sees it, what's the crime?"

"Just don't do it publicly and humiliate me."

"Come on. Have I ever humiliated you??"

Fries looked at him with a look that signified a definite yes.

William moved into a small hallway. The ceiling was lower and it was lit more dimly. Fries walked ahead of him. He pointed behind them and said, "That's an attic." Then he pointed to the door beside them. "That's an attic." The next door he said, "That's the linen closet. This is the bathroom, that's Storm's bedroom, and this is mine."

It was at the end of the hall. William went inside and saw that it was long and narrow with many windows shedding light. The ceiling sloped down to about four feet at the facing wall. In one of the end walls, was a large bay window with a window seat. At the other wall, a platform had been built five feet up. On it was a queen-sized bed. Beneath the platform was a built-in desk and bookshelves where Fries' computer sat. On the screen was some sort of music-writing program.

"What's this?" asked William.

Fries dashed to the computer and turned off the monitor. "Nothing."

"If it was nothing, why did you turn off the monitor?"

"Because I forgot Elizabeth dislikes it when we leave it on using up power."

"Sure," answered William sarcastically. He decided not to pursue it at the moment. "When did you move up here? I always imagined you being on the second floor."

"I was, until I began to be a more permanent resident when I got older."

"Do you like living up here?"

"Yes. It's quiet. Except when Storm plays her heavy metal music."

"How often does she do that?"

"Only when she's mad. Which means I generally can't risk going over and asking her to turn it down."

The rest of the room housed an old sofa, a chest of drawers and a closet. The wall held an assortment of posters. One of the three tenors performing in Rome, one of the Beatles, another of a Salvador Dali painting, and the last one was a list of music jokes in score order. 'How do you know an alto is at your door? She can't find her key.' 'What's the difference between a soprano and the PLO? You can negotiate with the PLO.' 'What does a vacuum cleaner and an electric guitar have in common? You plug them in and they both suck.'

William found himself chuckling at a lot of the jokes.

"Where did you find this?" he asked Fries.

Fries grinned. "I bought it at a music competition. If you're done inspecting my room, Elizabeth wanted me to send you down."

"I wasn't inspecting."

"Yes, you were."

"One silly little piece of paper declaring you my son and you turn troublesome and defensive!"

"I was always difficult."

"No, you used to be a darling little boy. Whatever happened?" William teased as they left the bedroom. "If you let me inspect your room like that now, I reserve the right to inspect at any undisclosed future date I want."

"No, you can't."

"Why not? What are you hiding?"

"Nothing. It's just an invasion of my privacy."

William laughed. "You lose all rights to privacy when you get parents."

Fries shoved his wheelchair forward a bit.

"I may be in a wheelchair, laddy, but I'm still stronger than you," William warned jokingly. "If you don't like it, you can always move in with the Biltmores, who will put you on display constantly."

"No, thank you. I'll just invest in door locks."

"And I'll learn the thieves pick-locking trade."

They continued to banter as they descended to the first floor in the elevator.

Elizabeth looked up as they came into the kitchen. "There you are. I was just going to go look for you. Fries, would you round up the kids and tell them supper's ready."

"Mum, the kids know that whenever you're cooking, they have ten minutes between the time you say dinner is ready and it actually is."

"Tell them I mean it this time."

Fries walked off mumbling, "You said that last time."

Elizabeth turned on William. "Stop smirking and put these vegetables on the table. I'm really ready this time."

Ten minutes later dinner was ready on the table, just as the children gathered to sit down. Everyone sat down- Elizabeth at the head, William at the foot, and four children on either side. Storm was out with her friends.

The meal was peaceful for a typical Bennet mansion meal. Elizabeth managed to control Eva's chatter enough to let the others have a chance to say something. Dessert was only a minor disaster. They had two cookies each instead of homemade peach cobbler.

William helped get the kids into bed, making sure all teeth were washed, all faces scrubbed, all clothes put in the dirty clothes hamper, and kids in bed with the lights out and a kiss from Elizabeth.

Fries retired to his practice room and Elizabeth and William did laundry in the laundry room.

"This... is a never-ending job," Elizabeth stated.

"Well, you get two more people's laundry to do soon."

"Yay. I can't wait."

"When are we getting married?"

"Jane and I thought Wednesday."

"Wednesday's fine for me. Check with Charles, though."

"What's he gonna say? Sorry I can't come to the wedding, I have a meeting?"

"Just make sure."

"I know."

"Did you call and make an appointment?"

"Jane did."

"What do you want to do after?"

"I hadn't thought about it."

"Jane and Charles are actually planning on going away for a couple of days. So we can't do anything big."

"Let's just go out to dinner, then."

"All right. I'll leave it up to you."

William opened the dryer and began to take out and fold clothes on his lap.

"I suggest taking two cars."

"Why?"

"Well, if Jane and Charles are going on a mini honeymoon, you and I need a separate car to do whatever we want to do."

William looked at her carefully. "Are you going to decorate their car?"

Elizabeth grinned mischievously. "You wanna help me?"

"How? We're going to be getting married ourselves!"

"Minor detail," she scoffed.

"Elizabeth," he said in a warning tone of voice. "Don't do anything rash, all right? I don't want to be left standing at the altar."

"Except we're not going to be standing at an altar."

"Minor detail," he shot back.

"Just trust me," she said coolly.

When they had finished the laundry, William asked, "So what do we do now?"

"We wash the dishes."

"More work?" he complained.

"You'd better get used to it."

"I would do this during the day."

"You can do these chores whenever you want to, my dear, as long as they get done in time."

"In time for what?"

"In time for the next meal in the case of dishes, in time for the kids to wear the clothes in case of the laundry."

"Deal."

After the dishes had been done, Elizabeth began to clean out her office so William could move in as soon as possible. William posted himself out of the way in a corner and kept her company with conversation while she worked.

"When do you have time to go to a jewelers to pick out your ring?" asked William at one point.

"My ring?"

"Yes... generally when you get married, you wear a ring."

"Oh. I hadn't thought about that. You don't have to give me one."

"Nonsense. If we're going to do this, we have to make it believable. You're going to have to wear a ring."

"I have one my grandmother gave me you could use."

William moved over to her. He caught her face with one hand. "Elizabeth, I want to get you a ring. One you will like and wear."

Elizabeth's heart pounded loudly in her chest and her breathing shallowed. She didn't know what to say. The situation was awkward. Difficult. She would usually crack a wise-ass remark or a joke, but she knew to do so at this moment would be cruel to William. She realized she wanted him to give her one, and she would be proud to wear it. It would be a symbol of their union.

"All right," she said softly. "Only if you choose and wear yours."

One of her eyebrows lifted in challenge.

William smiled slightly. Elizabeth couldn't help noticing the irresistible dimples in his cheeks. "Fair enough," he said. "Do you want to go tomorrow?"

Elizabeth had to try to concentrate for a minute before she brought her mind back to reality. "Umm.... I can't do it tomorrow. The day after?"

"You'll pick me up?"

She nodded, and pulled away to turn her attention to filing some papers.

It was past midnight by the time Charles and Jane returned from their evening out. Charles and William went home while Jane and Elizabeth stayed up for another hour talking about the next few weeks.

"What am I going to do at the wedding?" asked William.

"Well... usually one says vows and gets hitched."

"No, I meant.... I can't stand up, Charles. How am I supposed to go through the ceremony?"

"Like you are now?"

"Sitting? She's going to be standing above me? Don't you see how awkward that is?"

"You mean humiliating."

"I did not say humiliating," William replied, hotly.

"But that's what you mean. Your dignity is hurt."

"So what? I admit I'm ashamed of the thought of not being able to stand at my own wedding."

"William, I thought you had accepted who you are by now. It probably hasn't even crossed Elizabeth's mind." Charles paused. "But... if it bothers you that much, I suggest you sit on a stool so you're about Elizabeth's height. She's shorter than you were standing up. Then you'll be able to look her in the eye when you say your vows. How does that sound?"

"It's not perfect, but it's better than looking at her waist."

"I know there's a stool with arms and of suitable height in the kids room in the Bennet mansion. We'll pick it up next time we're there."

"Don't tell Elizabeth that I made a fuss, will you?"

"Of course not."

Two days later, Elizabeth picked up William and they went into the city to look at several jewelry stores. Elizabeth felt rather awkward, but William's attitude set the tone for her. He was easy and friendly. She enjoyed just being with him.

Elizabeth chose a ring she loved but one she didn't feel guilty asking for.

"Are you sure you want this one?"

Elizabeth smiled and nodded. "I don't like flashy jewelry."

"It's beautiful, I agree."

The ring was made of platinum, and was flat with ivy and flowers engraved on the metal. William chose a medium width band of gold.

It took only two hours. They had a cup of coffee together before going to Elizabeth's lawyer's office to sign a prenuptial agreement. William had insisted upon it so no one could accuse him of marrying Elizabeth for her money.

"Don't you have a lot of money of your own anyway?" asked Elizabeth. "How else do you live like you do without an income?"

"I have insurance money and investments and a small inheritance," he replied.

Elizabeth eyed him. "How small an inheritance?" she asked suspiciously.

"Only half a million from my father."

"Only half a million?"

"Well it wasn't much considering how much he made. I don't live extravagantly either, which helps a great deal."

Chapter 11

Posted on Thursday, 20 September 2001

The following day, Jane and Elizabeth drove downtown to the courthouse. The two women brought their dresses into the restrooms to change into.

"Oh, bother. Jane, I forgot something in the car. I'm going to go get it."

"Lizzy, we're supposed to be getting married in half an hour!"

"I know, I know. I'll be back, don't worry."

Elizabeth left the building and fetched a bag she had hidden in the car. She pulled out white shoe polish and began to write on the back 'Just Married'. Then she proceeded to quickly draw hearts on the side windows and their name on the back windows.

Next she pulled out five tin cans already tied to strings. As fast as she could, she tied them to the bumper. She had scouted out the car the previous night so she would be able to do it more quickly. Finally, she tossed toilet paper and confetti all over the car. In ten minutes she was done. She hurried back inside, washed her hands and changed into the white sundress she had decided to wear for the wedding. She pulled her hair up on top of her head and put pearl barrettes in the curls. Next she donned her pearl necklace and earrings, and finally put the barest of makeup on.

Jane rushed in and exclaimed, "There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you."

"Sorry. I got a little lost getting back from the car. Are you ready?"

"Almost. I need you to do my hair, though. It's not working for me."

Elizabeth helped Jane with her short, blonde hair. In five minutes, Jane was as ready as Elizabeth was. Elizabeth looked at the two of their reflections in the mirror.

"This is so weird, Jane. We're getting married."

"I know. It all happened so fast."

"It was a lot worse for me. At least you knew you were going to marry Charles for some time now. I haven't thought about marriage at all except as a plan I would like to have accomplished."

"Are you nervous?" asked Jane.

"No. I'm kind of happy, actually."

"Why do you say actually?"

"Well, William and I aren't the normal bride and groom. We've been on one date and never kissed."

"You've been on more than one date."

"Only one official date where he asked me out. I've done things with him, like going to see Robin's play or Fries' concerts. But he was always a friend. My son's best friend. My sister's fiancé's flatmate and best friend."

"But you want to marry him?"

"Yes. He's so kind and loving, and I truly enjoy his company above anyone else's besides yours. He's a wonderful father. And he has said he'll be happier with us than he's ever been before. I believe him. He'll feel so much more useful in the Bennet mansion. The kids won't treat him any differently. Hopefully he'll lose his sense of inferiority."

"Do you love him?"

"I don't know, Jane. But if I did, it's highly unlikely he would love me. He's just being a very good friend to me."

Jane looked skeptical, but decided this was not the time to explain her theories.

The women picked up their small bouquets. Elizabeth's was made of peach coloured roses and purply-blue irises. Jane's held gardenias and yellow orchids.

"Shall we?" said Elizabeth.

Jane kissed Elizabeth's cheek and said, "Let's go."

The two sisters walked into the court where a justice sat at the bench, William sat on a stool with his wheelchair beside him, and Charles stood grinning at Jane. Or so I presume it was Jane since why would he be grinning at Elizabeth?

They walked up and stood next to the grooms. Elizabeth smiled and winked at William. He was only an inch shorter than Elizabeth was. Not that she noticed. Just as the Justice was going to start, there was a commotion in the back of the court. They turned to see what it was and saw Storm leading eight, nicely dressed, children to the benches.

Storm smiled mischievously and sat down. Fries brought up the rear, wearing his concert tuxedo, his hair neatly combed for once. He smiled at William and Elizabeth and sat down next to Eva. They were silent and well behaved. Elizabeth supposed it was all right. It must've been planned. Storm most likely, and perhaps Fries was in on the scheme. Elizabeth was actually very happy they were there. As long as they kept on behaving, she might even reward Storm later on.

They turned back to the Justice, who smiled and began to recite the ceremony. It was obvious she took pleasure in these ceremonies which were more rewarding than court cases.

Each couple said their vows and placed the rings on the fingers. Then the Justice pronounced both couples man and wife. "You may now kiss the bride."

Elizabeth turned to William shyly. She felt more than a little self-conscious. William took her face in his hands and made her look at him. For a split second they looked into each other's eyes before he leaned forward and kissed her firmly, but gently. She responded in kind rather to her surprise. A pleasant tingling feeling spread through her and a rush of warmth flushed her face.

They pulled apart after a few seconds. And Elizabeth realized the children were clapping and cheering. William and Elizabeth turned to look at them, smiling in spite of themselves.

Elizabeth helped William into his wheelchair and walked beside him as they left the courthouse. Outside, all the children blew bubbles into the air as Jane and Charles walked down the steps, holding hands and laughing. Storm had the camera and took photographs while Fries had (illegally) pulled the car up in front of the courthouse for the newlyweds to climb into.

Jane gasped in surprise when she saw her newly decorated car. She turned to look at Elizabeth accusingly. Elizabeth laughed and blew her sister a kiss. Jane and Charles got in the car and after waving goodbye, drove away to their honeymoon in a bed and breakfast in the mountains.

Fries came up the steps to hug Elizabeth and vigorously shake hands with William. Storm took another picture of the three of them.

"Storm, dear, however did you manage it?" Elizabeth asked.

"Oh, I have a few tricks up my sleeve."

"Thank you so much. It means a lot to Jane and I."

"I didn't do it for you," Storm teased. "I wanted to see the wedding so I had to bring the brats along."

Elizabeth tried to look disapproving, but didn't quite manage it. She hugged and kissed Storm. "Would you do me a favor and pick up the stool William used in the courtroom and take it home?"

"Sure."

"And one more thing." Elizabeth tossed Storm her bouquet and walked off after William, who was heading for Charles' car.

When they were in the car, Elizabeth asked, "So where are we going?"

"There's this really nice fondue restaurant on the riverbank. I thought it would be fun. Does that sound suitable to you?"

"I think it's a nice idea. Do you know how to get there?"

"Sort of. It's off of Call Street."

"I know where that is."

As they drove along, William asked, "So you managed to deck Jane's car, huh?"

Elizabeth grinned. "It was a close call. I was gone long enough for her to start searching for me. And I had to get ready in a flash."

"Well you look beautiful."

"Thank you. May I say you look quite dashing in a tuxedo?"

"You may."

"So tell me. Can you apply for a handicapped license plate?" asked Elizabeth.

"I think so. But you can only use it when I'm in the car."

"But no one's ever gonna know."

"I will."

"Not if you're not there."

"It's an ethical issue, Elizabeth," William said half-seriously. He knew she was just winding him up.

"I know, I know. But when you have seven children to move across a parking lot, it's another issue."

William changed the subject. "What did Storm say to you?"

"She was just saying that she wanted to see the wedding and she had a few tricks up her sleeve."

"Like bribery and threats?"

"Storm is actually a responsible baby-sitter. I trust her implicitly. Over the years she has become adept at managing the children. Fries is less involved, but he's no less responsible."

"You've trained them well, have you?"

"Of course. I don't know how I managed before I had their help."

"We always manage."

The couple spent a pleasant evening at the fondue restaurant. Elizabeth had never had fondue before, and William took great pleasure in teaching her the knack and the timing for the pieces. A live Cuban jazz band was playing on the patio where they sat looking out over the river. Their conversation was relaxed and pleasant.

After the long dinner, they took a stroll down the promenade beside the river. It was a cool, quiet evening.

"Elizabeth, would... would you push me?" William asked quietly.

He had never allowed anyone to push his wheelchair before. It was a matter of stubborn pride to him. But this meant something more, something different. Elizabeth didn't reply, but stepped behind him, took hold of the rubber-covered handles and began to gently push the chair down the promenade. It was not difficult at all. William folded his hands in his lap and leaned back, resting his head against her arm.

Elizabeth didn't know how long they walked before they reached the estuary and they faced the sea. Lights flickered on the horizon like the stars in the heavens. It was a clear night, but being in the city obscured most of the visible stars.

Elizabeth stood still watching the waves gently crash over the rocks a few feet away. Then she felt William's hand on hers, drawing her in front of him. He pulled her down onto his lap.

She hesitated. "Won't I hurt you?" she asked.

William shook his head. She carefully sat on his lap and suppressed a deep sigh as he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close against his chest. She closed her eyes in contentment and listened to the rhythm of his breathing mixed with the ebb and flow of the ocean.

William couldn't believe this was happening. He felt like any moment he would wake up from this incredible dream. She was so special to him and he held her tenderly, her soft cheek resting against his. Mentally he reminded himself she considered him a close friend, and nothing more.

Half an hour later, Elizabeth stirred. William let her go and she stood, straightening her rumpled dress.

"Shall we start back?" asked William.

Elizabeth nodded.

"Sit on my lap and go for a ride," William said.

Elizabeth eyed him warily. "I still remember the last time you did that."

"But this is different. The path is straight."

"How do I know you won't veer off onto a side path?"

"You'll just have to trust me," William replied, with a boyish look of contrived innocence on his face.

Elizabeth sighed a resolute sigh and carefully sat back down on his lap. William began slowly to push them along. They picked up speed until Elizabeth had her arms around his neck to stay on.

"William, I swear, I'll do something horrible if you don't slow down?"

"Like what?" he challenged.

"Like making you do the laundry for the next five months."

"You wouldn't dare. I would do it so awfully you wouldn't be able to help taking over."

"I'll think of something."

William slowed down a little.

"You're all bark and no bite," retorted William.

"You'll be the one who will push me to biting."

They made it to the car with no misadventures, and Elizabeth pouted good-naturedly while they bickered the whole way home. Everyone was in bed by the time the newlyweds walked into the Bennet mansion.

"Do you need anything?" asked Elizabeth.

"I'm fine."

"Then I will retire for the night."

"Good night, Mrs. Bennet," William replied.

Elizabeth stopped and laughed a little. "It'll take an awfully long time to get used to Mrs."

"You're not the one who had a whole name change."

"True. Now you know what most women suffer."

"I know, I know."

"Good night," Elizabeth said. She leaned down and kissed William briefly. "Thank you for everything."

"Likewise."

Elizabeth went up the stairs and looked in on all the children. They were all sound in their beds asleep. She went into her bedroom, and sagged against the closed door.

"What a day," she murmured to herself, and began to take out her hair and jewelry.

Soon she was in her bed and lay awake thinking about the whole day. Her heartbeat increased as she thought about the short kiss they had shared after the vows.

The following morning, Elizabeth woke early as usual, and made sure to keep the children quiet so William could sleep as long as he wanted. She made the children breakfast, and once they were either on their way to school or in the playroom or practice room, she made pancakes.

On a tray, she assembled the stack of pancakes, a jug of maple syrup, a glass of orange juice and a glass of milk, along with two slices of bacon. She took the elevator next to the kitchen up to the second floor and knocked on William's door.

She balanced the tray on her knee and opened the door with her free hand. She walked in and set the tray on the bedside table. He was still asleep, breathing softly. Elizabeth chuckled at the sight of William in a child's bed with dinosaur sheets.

She sat down on the edge of the bed. William woke up to the feeling of the extra weight on the bed. He rubbed his eyes sleepily.

Elizabeth smiled at him. "That's no fair," he mumbled.

"What's not fair?"

"You're up and dressed and awake and I look horrible in the mornings."

"Who said life was fair? Cheer up. I made you breakfast in bed."

William grabbed the headrest and dragged his body upright. The bed groaned a little at the extra stress.

"We're going to have move you own bed in here soon. This bed won't take such abuse much longer."

"Not abusing it," William replied defensively. "I'm using it."

Elizabeth placed the tray on his lap.

"It smells marvelous, thank you. How long have you been up?"

"About an hour and a half."

"Really? How could you?"

"Habit. Did you need any help this morning?"

"No, I'm all right."

"Well, whenever you're ready, we can take the van over to your apartment and move some more things over here if you like."

"Sure."

"I need to be home by two, though."

"Ok." William finished off the pancakes. "This reminds me of when I first met you."

"Does it?"

"Sure. You job was to feed me in bed."

"That's right. I lived for it," she replied sarcastically. "This doesn't remind me of that time. You're one hundred percent nicer now than you were."

"Really?"

"Come on, William. You practically bit my head off every time I came. I dreaded going to your place every day."

"You're joking."

"Nope. You were a grumpy old bear to deal with. Ask Jane. Every time I would come home and complain."

"Well... I'm sorry."

"Don't fret. You improved significantly."

"I'm glad."

"So am I. But you know it was all Fries' doing."

"You think so?"

"I know so. You would still be the same grumpy old bear if it hadn't been for him. He charmed you like a snake charmer charms his cobras."

"I won't deny it. He's the best thing that's ever happened to me."

"We'll start the adoption papers this evening. I want to get them done as soon as possible."

"As do I."

William finished off the orange juice and put the tray on the bedside table. "Thank you. That was a nice treat."

"Don't expect it to be routine. You can darn well get up for breakfast like the rest of us," she said teasingly.

She stood up and took the tray. "I will leave you to get dressed. You can use my bathroom, or the boys' bathroom, whichever you choose."

She left the room, and William began the laborious morning routine of getting bathed and dressed. It usually took him at least an hour.

They spent the morning making a couple of trips to move things into the mansion, and then spent the rest of the day working. William used Elizabeth's office to get some paperwork done while Elizabeth sat down with Fries at the kitchen table to teach him some European history and algebra. Fries whined substantially, complaining that she shouldn't have to be teaching him the day after her wedding. Elizabeth knew when he was BS-ing and promptly told him so.

Between two and three-thirty, all the rest of the children came home from school. William was there to listen to them all chatter about their day. He was there to help them if they had any homework. And he was there to help cook the dinner and put them to bed.

Elizabeth was pleased. She was happy he was becoming so involved. For selfish reasons as well as just a warm tingling feeling inside at the display of fatherly devotion. Well... she considered it fatherly devotion though someone else may not.

Once the children were mostly in bed, Elizabeth was doing the dishes when William came in and said, "Did you want to watch the West Wing with me?"

"Excuse me?"

"I asked if you want to watch the West Wing with me."

"I heard you, I just don't know what you mean."

"It's a television show about what goes on in the West Wing of the White House. It's practically the only show I watch. It's really good."

"I don't think I've seen it."

"Do you ever watch television in the evenings?" he asked.

"Not that I ever remember."

"Well try it out. It's a good show."

"But I have to finish these dishes first."

"Elizabeth," William said. "The dishes can wait. Come on. You've been working all day. Relax a bit."

Elizabeth eyed him. "You're a bad influence on me."

"No, I'm not. I didn't say to slack off on all your responsibilities, I'm just suggesting you find some down time for yourself so you don't burn yourself out."

"You've gone over this before."

"And you didn't listen to me the first time so I'm trying again. And I think I remember you saying you wished you had someone else there for you. Well... I'm here for you. And this is me fulfilling my duty to keep you sound of mind and body. Come on. It'll start in a couple of minutes."

Elizabeth sighed. She threw down her rubber gloves and followed William to the den. She could hear Fries practicing as they passed his music room. She stuck her head in and said to the lad, "Don't stay up too late. You still have to read to chapter fifteen in Great Expectations by tomorrow."

"I know, Mum."

"Good night, dear." She blew him a kiss and went to the den.

William was in the process of shifting himself onto the sofa. He settled his legs into position and then looked for the remote control. Elizabeth watched with a bit of amusement as he saw the controller sitting on the TV. He swore softly and proceeded to reach for his wheelchair.

Elizabeth walked in, picked it up, and tossed it him.

"Thank you."

She sat down and for an hour, she miraculously forgot about her worries and things to do. She just simply enjoyed watching the show. Afterwards, she looked at William and said, "Thank you, William. I needed that."

"Good. Now go up to bed."

"I can't. I still have to finish the dishes and I have to-"

"Elizabeth. Go up to bed. I'll finish the dishes."

"Fine."

"Ok then. I'll see you in the morning."

She stood up and after stretching, she bent down and kissed William's cheek. "Good night."

Elizabeth went upstairs and was soon fast asleep in her bed. William sat for a good ten minutes before making the effort to lift himself into his wheelchair and move into the kitchen to wash the rest of the dishes.

Two days later, Jane and Charles came home. They looked very happy. Who wouldn't? As soon as they could, Elizabeth and Jane locked themselves in a room to talk.

"So how was it?" asked Elizabeth.

"It was very beautiful. Very romantic. Quaint, but not too rustic."

"So everything went well?"

"Definitely. We enjoyed ourselves immensely."

"I'll bet you did."

"What about you?"

"We're okay. We've settled into a sort of routine. We've been moving things in the morning and then working in the afternoon. Me with the kids and he in my office doing whatever he does."

"What did you two do after the wedding?"

"We went to this nice fondue restaurant and then took a stroll down the promenade. It was very beautiful. Then we went home and to bed."

"Here?"

"Yeah, why not?"

Jane looked uncomfortable. "Well, I don't know. I just thought you would have wanted more privacy and gone to his apartment."

"Jane... we didn't sleep together if that's what you're thinking. He's sleeping in the room across from mine. It used to be Drew's."

Jane looked shocked. "Oh my gosh Elizabeth! You haven't slept with him?"

"Jane, how could I?"

"What, are you waiting for your second marriage?! Elizabeth!"

"It's a freakin' arranged marriage."

"But you're two good friends, consenting adults... married... why not?"

"Because... because.... Oh Jane, don't you see? We never discussed it. And I don't want to... imply that he can do it at all. I mean, he was in an accident, can't move his legs, I don't know what other kinds of... problems he has, and I didn't want to just assume he could sleep with me."

Jane sat still with her hands over her mouth looking at Elizabeth. Elizabeth squirmed uncomfortably. "And he's never said anything. I don't want to put him into a situation where he has to say he can't do it. And I'm not that type anyway. I don't have the confidence or gumption to... seduce a man! If he doesn't make any moves, say anything, or do anything, then I certainly will not. I'm just not like that, Jane. You know that. It's too uncomfortable to me."

After a minute of silence, Jane said, "I understand, Lizzy. I just can't believe it."

"Well, you better get used to it. That's kind of how things are around here."

"So he spent his wedding night alone in a dinosaur bed?"

Elizabeth looked sheepish. She nodded.

"Goodness. That's definitely a story to tell the grandkids."

Elizabeth snorted.

"Charles has never said anything to that effect, but I'm not saying it's impossible."

"Whatever, Jane. I'm just happy things are going well so far. He's been good for me. Helping out and telling me to relax every so often."

"Good. I'm glad. We'll be such a big happy family here. If only you and William would get together properly."

"You save your prayers and hopes, Jane. It doesn't look likely at all."

"Lizzy, tell me again why William took your name. You never explained it all fully to me."

"Basically it was because Fries has already sort of established himself as Fries Bennet. And I didn't want to relinquish my name. It means a lot to me, and frankly, I was not willing to take someone else's name, especially a man's name who I'm not truly marrying, if you say marriage has to have consummation. So he was okay with taking on the Bennet name. It has something to do with leaving his old life behind. He can go around more anonymously with his new name. I liked that idea. How many times do you hear of the husband taking on the wife's name? I mean, most of the time if the wife doesn't take the husband's name, it'll be just she who has the maiden name, not the kids or the husband."

"I know."

"Did you and Charles discuss it at all?"

"Not really. It was pretty much always assumed I would take Bingley."

"Yeah, at least you're not changing initials. JB."

"I hadn't considered that."

"It's still a change though. What does it feel like to be called Mrs. Bingley."

Jane laughed a little. "It's odd. Something that'll take a while to adjust to. I don't know how long it'll take for me to respond to that name."

Elizabeth heard Fries calling her name. "He's probably stuck on some math problem. We're working on factoring quadratic equations today."

"Yuck. I'm glad you're doing that. I'll stick to the English thank you very much."

"I'm glad you're back. I tried to teach him Dickens, but it didn't work."

"What would you do without me?"

"I'd send him to school."

Elizabeth shuffled through the mail, frustrated. William watched her.

"There's no news. I've already looked."

Elizabeth got through the pile and looked up with annoyance.

"What?"

"How can you be so patient?" she snapped.

William realized her anger wasn't really directed at him. He just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. He didn't reply.

"It's been... what? Three weeks since we sent the adoption papers in?"

"You of all people should know it takes time."

"How do you know?"

"I don't. I guessed."

"Well, you don't know all the ins and outs of this."

"What do you mean ins and outs?"

Elizabeth sighed deeply, running a hand through her curls. She sat down at the chair she used in their office. She started to speak, but Eva poked her head in the door.

"Lizzy, can I have a popsicle?"

"No, dear. We're going to have dinner in an hour. Jane's cooking it right now."

"Please?"

"I said no," Elizabeth replied firmly.

Eva pouted and left the room.

Elizabeth turned back to William behind the desk and sighed again.

"Careful, Elizabeth."

"What do you mean careful?"

"Don't take your annoyance out on the children."

Elizabeth sat upright, defensive. "You think I'm taking it out on the kids? You think I should let Eva eat a snack right before dinner? She can't be allowed to use her previous abuse as an excuse to always get what she wants."

"Elizabeth, Elizabeth, stop. I didn't mean that. I just said be careful because you're nearing that point. You're already snapping at me, don't start snapping at the children."

"I'm not snapping at you, William."

His eyebrows raised. Elizabeth avoided his eyes.

"I'm going to go check on the kids," she said as she stood up.

"Sit down. You haven't finished, yet."

"Finished what?"

"As far as I could tell, you were going to tell me some important information you have heretofore withheld about the ins and outs of the adoption."

"Oh yeah." She plopped back down on the chair and leaned her head back on the head rail. "When I first saw the Biltmores, when they first told me they were taking him away from me, I noticed other things."

"What do you mean 'other things'?"

"Hold on, let me finish. Ed's desk was clean. It's never clean. He looked... I don't know... subservient to the Biltmores. Like he obeyed them or something. And I know this is not standard practice of adoption. This has never happened to me before. They've always met the child and sought the agreement of them. And then the very last thing he said in reply to my saying he should be fired for this, he said, 'On the contrary, I expect a promotion.'"

"Really? What are you implying?"

"I think... that the Biltmores are donating a substantial sum of money to the social office to sway everything in their favor. Those workers want to do everything they can to make these Biltmores happy- even at the expense of Fries- so they can get these much needed funds."

"How could you prove it?"

"I'm not a detective! I can't prove anything. I just have a hunch, that's all."

"A hunch?"

Elizabeth stood up. "You know, if you're going to make fun of me, why don't you give me warning next time so I don't have to bother telling you anything."

"Elizabeth, I'm not making fun. Really. I'm not."

Elizabeth wasn't convinced. "I'm going to help Jane finish dinner."

She walked out and shut the door behind her. William was left behind in deep thought.

The following week, a buyer came forward to take the apartment. Charles took care of the transaction and by the next week, William and Charles had completely moved out of their apartment. A lot of the furniture was given away to needy families. The rest was moved into the Bennet mansion and placed where it was needed. Elizabeth worked hard to redecorate William's room. He felt very bad about her doing most of the work, but she insisted she do so since he moved in for her. Fries helped almost as much as Elizabeth, mostly doing the painting. William's own bed replaced the small twin-sized one. William's bed was specially made strong to sustain the heavy use of allowing William to lift himself in and out of the bed. The rest of the furniture was also brought in from the apartment. A month after William first moved in, he was living in a room all his own. He liked it. It was pleasant. It took some getting used to. It still felt new every time he went in. But he was happy with it.

William had taken over the office but wasn't there the entire day, which was what Elizabeth had feared would happen. He came out to play with the children frequently, he'd come out to investigate noise and squabbles, and he helped out with chores around the house. He said it gave him a small work break.

"Tell me, Elizabeth. Do we get priority over Fries? I mean, as foster parents do we get priority in an adoption?"

"Yes. We should do. Relatives get first priority, we get second."

"Good. Any news?"

"No. Usually they contact the relatives and give them so much time to come forward."

"So... say there's this aunt who comes forward to claim him, but she is a horrible parent and just wants him to do her housework. Will they give Fries to his aunt instead of us?"

"It really depends on the situation. But it has been known to happen. And the child can argue and complain all they want but it's not always taken into consideration."

"If Fries happens to be taken away from us, we can just wait until he's 18 and then he's free to come back to us, right?"

"I think so, yes."

Elizabeth heard her name being yelled down the stairs. "Elizabeth!!!!!!!!"

She sighed and stood up. She looked up the stairs at Fries on the third floor. "What is it? You know I hate having my name yelled about the house."

"Do you know where my glasses are?"

"No. Have you checked your music room?"

"Will you go look?"

"No, you can come down and look yourself. I was busy talking to William about you."

This piqued his curiosity. He started to run down the stairs. "You did? What did you say?"

"I'm not telling."

"Fine, then. I'll ask William."

"He's not telling, either."

"Yes, he will."

"I will?" said William, coming up behind Elizabeth.

"Won't you?" asked Fries in a pleading voice.

"Don't think so. Find your spectacles and get back to work," William replied.

"Ha," said Elizabeth triumphantly. "This is what is called a united front."

"Whatever," mumbled Fries as he sulked and walked off.

"You have your lesson with Dr. Strovsky in an hour."

"I know!"

William turned to Elizabeth. "You're baiting him," he accused.

"All in good fun," she protested.

"Elizabeth, don't do that."

"All right, I won't do it again. ...Much."

"Oh! I forgot to tell you, someone called for you while you were in the shower this morning."

"Who?"

"Stuart Hampton or something."

"Oh, him. He's the social worker working with me."

"I thought it was Ed."

"No, Ed isn't the usual guy."

"Isn't it unusual for social workers to be men."

"Yes, but not unheard of."

"Just wondering. So what does this Stuart person want?"

"Either he's coming by to check up on the kids or he's setting up a date for some prospective adopters."

"Really! What kind of check up?"

"He takes the kids aside and asks them questions to make sure we're treating them ok. Stu doesn't check up on us often. I guess because we've been doing this for so long and he trusts us. We have a good rapport."

"What happens when there're people looking to adopt?"

"They are sent by and usually I'll ask them for dinner. They can stay the night in the guestroom if they come from a long way away. If they're still interested, we just get them more interaction time until they've decided one way or another."

"What's it like for the other kids left behind?"

"It takes some long bedtime talks, a lot of love and affection, and a lot of tears, frankly. But I try to really teach them to be happy for the adopted one. There's still jealousy, but I do my best to keep it to a minimum. It's hardest for the kids who have been here longer and they see a newcomer go so soon."

"I'll bet. I need to write Fenna back or she'll accuse me of playing with the kids in the middle of an Instant Messaging conversation again."

"How many times have you done that to her?"

"Only once. Max came in asking something and we got distracted. But Fenna won't let me forget it."

Elizabeth chuckled. "So the whole office knows you're an old married man, do they?"

"Married, yes. Old, never."

"Don't they know you have nine children?"

"They know I live in a madhouse with nine children."

"You discredit us to your peers!"

"With good cause."

"Whatever." Elizabeth flashed him a smile and walked out of the office.

William paused for a long while, staring at the door. He so enjoyed these long conversations. The good-natured banter, the battles of wit, the teasings and the jokes. She made his life so much livelier.

He turned to his computer and replied to Fenna with an apology about the delay.

Playing with your children again?

No, actually. I was talking to my wife. William paused before hitting send. It gave him a small thrill to say that. 'I was talking to my...wife.' My wife. My wife. My wife. William sighed, scrubbed his face and then hit enter.

Well I won't be the one to stand between a couple of lovebirds.

Hardly. She's gone anyway.

What do you mean 'hardly'?

We're an unconventional couple.

Do explain.

I thought you said this problem was urgent.

It was until you mentioned your love life. Now I'm interested.

I hardly know you. Why should I tell you about my love life?

Just because we've only met once, doesn't mean we don't know each other much better through our conversations online over work.

Except for the fact that we only ever discuss work.

Well this is our chance to become better acquainted.

William proceeded to tell this almost perfect stranger about the situation with Elizabeth.

You got it bad.

Tell me about it. But this doesn't help me one bit.

I would suggest telling her.

Of course you would. You're not the one in the situation.

Then find some mutual acquaintance, like Charles, or someone else. Ask them to find out how she feels.

And if I learn she doesn't feel the same way I do? Which is most likely.

Then you just work harder at making her love you. But subtly. And you stay married and you stay happy.

Great. I'm doomed for life.

Now if we're done discussing your love life, the problem I have is actually urgent.

For once, this was your fault.

I know. Now pay attention.

I'm all ears. Or rather all eyes....

Life was easier for Elizabeth once the men had settled in. With William and Charles helping with chores and giving the children some of their attention, Elizabeth and Jane were able to relax a little. They had more time to themselves, which they generally spent with their husbands.

Elizabeth loved the easy relationship she and William had fallen into. Their compatibility was remarkable. She loved talking to him. She felt like she could tell him anything. And she loved it that he brought her out of herself. She could be someone completely different in front of him. She didn't have to be a good mother. She didn't have to be conscious of how good her sister was in comparison; she could just say anything she wanted- whatever was on her mind. She could let her guard down. And frankly, William loved her all the more for it.

One evening, William had retired to his room and was reading a Stephen King novel before turning out the light. He hadn't talked to Elizabeth nearly all day since she had been so busy. She knocked on his door and walked in.

She looked exhausted. She flopped down on his bed and lay her head on his thigh. He put his book down and smoothed the curls away from her face.

"Where've you been?" he asked.

"I had to go to the grocery store."

"Why?"

"Because we're running low on food."

"I didn't notice."

"That's because you only go into the kitchen for the occasional drink."

"Couldn't it have waited until tomorrow?"

"No. Because tomorrow I have to take Max to his soccer practice and Fries to his guitar lesson and Eva to her tutor and Rowena to her jazz class. Wednesdays are always busy, you know that."

"What about Thursday?"

"Thursday is when the Wilson's are coming over for dinner and so we needed food before then."

William continued to stroke her hair gently.

He began to talk to her in a soft, soothing voice. "This morning Eva came into my room already chattering away. About some dream she had or something. I was still only half-awake. She came bounding in full of energy. She climbed onto my bed and made sure I was fully awake before continuing with her dream. That's why she was so late getting down to breakfast. I had to remind her three times that you were waiting downstairs for her.

"Robin has already made his wish list for Father Christmas. He asked me for a stamp to send it to the North Pole. So I gave him one. I tried to suggest he give it to me and I would take care of it, but he insisted he wanted to mail it himself. So later on that afternoon, I went to the mailbox and took it and stowed it away for your December shopping list.

"You should have seen Storm come home this morning. She looked so angry she lived up to her name. She tried to explain it all to me, but I had a bit of trouble following it all. Finally, she noticed the look of confusion on my face, I guess. Because she threw up her hands and said grown-ups wouldn't understand and stalked up to her room. I tried really hard, but I didn't see where the anger came in.

"Fries played me the latest piece he's learned on the guitar. I was sort of busy working, but whenever he offers, I just have to take him up, because he rarely ever plays the guitar for people. I actually prefer listening to him on the guitar than the piano. Well, it depends on the piece, but the guitar can be so gentle and peaceful, and when I've been stressing over work for a couple of hours, a few minutes of Fries playing the guitar for me can make me relax so dramatically, even Fenna will notice. I get so proud of him so often. He's still my best friend, but he's become so much more. He's my son, now. I know we haven't adopted him officially, but in my mind, he's my own son."

William paused. "Elizabeth... I know I married you for practical reasons. I wish I could have married you for other reasons. I wish we were a real husband and wife. I wouldn't give you up for the world, so if you can't love me, I understand and I will respect you and be here for you until death do us part. But... I can go no longer without telling you how much I do love you. And it's almost daily torture to see you, talk with you, do things with you and not to know. And not to tell you. So just tell me... could you ever love me?"

He listened but heard only her quiet, steady breathing. He leaned to the side to see her face, and saw that she was fast asleep. He sat upright and banged his fist on the other side of the bed. "Damnation!" he swore softly. After finally gathering the guts and finding the 'right' moment to tell her, she falls asleep. He didn't know when he would be able to tell her again.

He looked down at her beautiful face again. He picked up the controller and moved the bed to the flat position. He punched the pillows a couple of times, and then gently moved Elizabeth as carefully as he could up beside him, finally resting her head on his shoulder. She murmured and snuggled up closer to him. William held still for a minute before he covered them both with the duvet and turned out the light.

As he lay in the dark with her cradled against his side, he tried to rationalize his actions. He would have taken her to her room if he could. But he couldn't. And he didn't know she was going to sleep so soon. And he couldn't wake her up, for that would be cruel. And the bed wasn't big enough for her not to be so close to him. This was the only comfortable way for her to sleep, so she wouldn't be falling off the bed. And if she woke up, she could always just get up and go to her own room.

After he had assuaged his guilt somewhat, he allowed himself to relax and enjoy the feeling of her snuggled against him. He listened to her soft breathing and wished with all of his heart that this was the norm instead of the exception; that this was by choice rather than by mistake. But he had to count his blessings. He was married to her. She wore her ring on her ring finger all the time. She behaved like she could love him someday if she didn't now. But maybe he was making that up. Maybe his heart just wished so badly that it made his mind believe.

Slowly, he began to drift to sleep, dreaming of Elizabeth.

Elizabeth woke up in the middle of the night, wondering where she was and whom she was with. It didn't take her long to remember falling asleep while he was talking. Instead of going to her own room, she just settled her head back in the crook of his arm and went back to sleep.

In the morning, William was first to wake up. Which surprised him since he had expected Elizabeth to wake up long before he did. She had one arm draped over his ribs with her head on his upper arm and shoulder. His arm was numb as a result, but he didn't dare move for fear of waking her. He knew she would want to be woken up, but he also thought she should get her rest while she could. Jane and Charles were more than capable of getting the kids ready for school. William remembered Elizabeth mentioning Jane turning off her alarm occasionally just to give her a sleep-in. He just hoped Eva wouldn't come in like she had the previous morning.

Not twenty minutes later, she began to stir. William held his breath, hoping she wouldn't be irrational and angry when she woke. Suddenly, she shot up.

"Oh good grief. I've overslept!"

"Calm down, Elizabeth," said William. "I'm sure Jane and Charles took care of everything. It's not that late."

"Are you positive?"

"Almost."

She relaxed a little, but not like she had been the previous night.

William pushed the button to raise the upper half of the bed upright so he could sit up more. Elizabeth rubbed her eyes and sighed. She looked at him and said, "I'm sorry I fell asleep in your bed William."

William wanted to say, 'I wish you would fall asleep in my bed every night.' But he chickened out. "That's okay. I didn't mind a bit."

"We should get moving. I'll see you later."

She kissed his cheek and left his room, closing the door gently behind her. For one ghastly moment, William was afraid he couldn't take it anymore and would snap and start crying. But somehow, he managed to take a very deep breath, and think about how fortunate he was to be her husband. The feeling didn't completely go away for the several days, though.

Elizabeth, meanwhile, had left the room as soon as it wouldn't seem awkward. She was mortified that she had slept there that night. She felt it was cruel to William, to sleep there to taunt him in a way. She kept cursing herself and wishing she had had the sense to go to her own room when she began to get sleepy. But she so loved being with him. And he was being so gentle and it was soporific.

The rest of the day, things were outwardly normal, but underneath the surface, there was a trace of awkwardness between the Bennets. It didn't last long, but its damage was longer lasting. Elizabeth wouldn't go to his room in the evenings. And William thought this was an indication of her feelings for him.

"Hello, the Bingleys and Bennets."

"How are you doing today? May I speak to Mrs. Darcy?"

"She's not here right now, may I take a message?"

"Can you tell her to call Texton Financial Marketers? We have some deals she will be interested in looking at."

"Sure. But can I just tell you you suck as a salesman?"

"Excuse me?"

"I said you suck as a salesman. You didn't get past the first line of defense, which is the daughter. You told me the business you are not going to have with my mother because since you have already told me, I won't give her the message. And my parents know that I do this and trust me because I graduated from Harvard Business School. I'm telling you you suck as a salesman. I hope no one is monitoring this call so you get fired. Have a nice day."

Storm hung up forcefully and turned around.

"Tell me, Storm, my love. Why did you do that?"

"Because he deserved it and I've always wanted to speak my mind to those phone salespeople."

"You always speak your mind."

"And I pride myself on it, thank you."

"It'll get you into a lot of trouble one of these days," warned Elizabeth.

"Who says it hasn't already?"

William patted her back and said, "I'm proud of you, Storm. I've taught you well."

"William, don't encourage her," admonished Elizabeth.

"Thank you, William. I only learn from the best," said Storm.

"Harvard Business School?" muttered Elizabeth as she turned back to her accounts.

The Finale

Posted on Tuesday, 30 October 2001

"You know," said William. "We should take some of the kids out some time."

"What do you mean?"

"Well... I mean we should take each of the kids to some concert or movie or some event outside of the home. But just the two of us with them."

"What's the reasoning behind this?"

"To give them some time with us alone. I think so often we do things with all of them. And I think it's important to do that, but also important to give each child some individual attention."

"All right. That's sounds like a good idea. How do you suggest proposing the idea to them? Who will you pick first?"

"Umm... names out of a hat."

"Good plan."

"So?"

"So what? I said it was a good idea."

"Aren't you going to tell them about it?"

"No. You are. It's your idea. I think you should do it."

"Uh, okay."

William started a good plan within the house. Every weekend, a child would have their turn to have their own time with William and Elizabeth. Jane and Charles adopted the idea, too. The children went to plays, concerts, movies, and to sport games.

Even Storm had her own night.

"Where do you want to go?" asked Elizabeth.

"I heard the Vagina Monologues are playing in town."

"No way, Storm. Please?"

"I was just kidding. How about a punk band concert?"

"I would suffer through it just for you, but I'm not sure about William."

"Actually, just going out to dinner so we can talk would be nice."

"Excuse me? Are you kidding?"

"No," Storm replied, perfectly seriously.

"Teenagers aren't supposed to want to talk to their parents."

Storm laughed uneasily. "You know me. Always one to shock people."

So William and Elizabeth were to meet Storm at a nice Mexican restaurant that Saturday evening.

"Where are we going exactly?" asked William as Elizabeth helped him into the car.

"To el Rio Grande."

"The grand river, huh?"

"I didn't know you spoke Spanish," she said.

"Being able to translate el Rio Grande, is not claiming to speak the language. I learnt a little in school."

"You never tell me about your previous life."

"There's a reason for that."

"And what is the reason, may I ask?"

"It's a previous life. Not part of me anymore. I want to forget it."

"But it is a part of you. You will never be able to detach yourself from your past, though you may forget it."

"Doesn't mean I have to tell you about it."

"No, but I have been curious."

"Duly noted."

"You're annoying, sometimes."

William smiled winningly at her. "I know. I try my best."

Truth be told, the couple did get annoyed at each other occasionally, but it was something that happened between the best of friends when they saw each other every day and lived in such close proximity.

"Elizabeth, I've been thinking."

"I'm so relieved to hear that, William. I'd been worried."

"Elizabeth, I'm serious."

"Ok. I'm listening."

"Once Fries' adoption is taken care of, do you want to consider adopting Storm, or at least giving her the option of choosing it?"

Elizabeth looked at William, a little surprised. "Um... I don't know."

"You love her just as much as Fries. And she seems to be your daughter in most other ways. Granted you don't get in as many fights as I would suspect a real mother/daughter would. I think she may feel less loved with our adoption of Fries. And tonight, if you want, I think it would be nice to explain to her we would have gone through all of this, just for her, had the occasion arose. And offer her adoption before she becomes an adult."

"Are you sure?"

"I would have thought you'd love the idea."

"I do. I love Storm like my own daughter and I would have fought just as hard to keep her, but I'm talking about you and me. If we adopt Storm as our daughter, what does that do to you?"

"I don't see what the problem is. I love Storm, not as much as you can, but I do love her, and I would like to see that she belongs to a family and that she is well cared for."

"But.... What if you want to get divorced after the adoptions? It'll mean more child support for you wouldn't it?"

William looked at her in some form of amazement. She didn't realize the depth of his feelings for her of course, but he was still surprised she thought he would divorce her after they got the adoption. For him, it was as long-term as she would allow. "That thought hadn't even crossed my mind, and I won't give it much validation for any thought. Besides, Storm will be beyond child supporting age very soon anyway."

"You're right."

William felt pain from the flippant manner she unknowingly treated his regard. But she didn't know, and therefore couldn't be blamed.

Storm joined them a few minutes after they were seated at a table. They ordered and began to talk about casual things at first.

Then William asked, "What universities are you looking at?"

"I have a working list at the moment, but I really would like to visit them before I narrow it down to those I want to apply to."

"What are you planning on studying?"

"I'm not sure. I've considered English and Women's Studies. But at the same time, I don't like being limited to those areas. I have an ambition to challenge male-dominated fields like physics and engineering."

"I thought you hated math," said Elizabeth.

"I do. But it doesn't stop me from wishing I could be brilliant and beat all the men in the engineering department."

"It won't do you any good to wish for tastes you don't have. If you don't like a certain subject, I would not advise studying it. In college, I found that taking difficult classes in what I liked, I made better grades than if I had taken easy classes in what I disliked."

William added, "At the same time, some people like a challenge and will take subjects they aren't good in for the sake of conquering those weaknesses."

"I'm actually not that bad at math, I just hate it."

"Then don't do something you hate in life," said William. "I went through college and got my expected business administration degree. Then I went on to get my graduate degree in accounting. I joined a corporation and I climbed the ranks, and I thought I had happiness. I was young, naďve, and thought I had everything I could ever want. Except I was desperately unhappy. I couldn't figure it out. I lacked nothing. A 'successful' career, an active social life, and prestige. But I was unhappy and didn't even know it until I found happiness again years later in the Bennet Mansion. Only now can I truly appreciate how miserable I was. Before I moved in with you, I had few material possessions. I had a few close friends. I had a fulfilling job volunteering for a cause I believed in. And I was happy. I'm happier now. So don't think that what the world says should make you happy actually does. It can be false. I'd rather see you poor and happy than rich and unhappy."

Elizabeth turned and nodded at Storm. "Ditto."

"Point taken," replied Storm.

There was a short pause. William nudged Elizabeth. She looked at him. He winked. "Oh," she mouthed and then said, "Storm, dear, William and I have been discussing something. If the same situation with Fries had been happening to you instead, we would have taken the same course of action. And since you're approaching your legal age, we were wondering if you wanted to be adopted by us, once Fries' paperwork is in the clear."

Storm stared at Elizabeth. "You're joking."

Elizabeth appeared hurt by Storm's reaction. "No. I'm serious."

"Really?" Storm's voice broke. "You want me?" She choked up and began to wipe her eyes uselessly. She sniffed loudly.

Elizabeth enveloped Storm in her arms. "Of course we want you! You've been my daughter for years! How could you think I didn't want you?"

"I-I never th-thought I'd belong t-to anyone."

"You've belonged to me, to Jane and I all along. We just never had anything on paper to say it. I love you like you were my own daughter."

Storm continued to cry a little on Elizabeth's shoulder. Elizabeth hugged her tightly and rubbed her back soothingly.

Finally, Storm sat up and took Elizabeth's proffered Kleenex to wipe her eyes and nose.

"Is that a yes?" asked Elizabeth.

Storm smiled joyfully and nodded.

"You're hair."

"Yeah?"

"It's... blue. And... shaved."

"Congratulations for pointing out the obvious."

"It was white the last time I saw you."

"Yeah, I wanted a change. So I died it."

William continued to stare at Storm in amazement.

She saw his look and said rather testily, "You're lucky I'm not old enough to get tattoos and piercings yet."

"It actually looks good," said William.

"Actually?" she patted her head self-consciously. Deep down inside, she was flattered. She never expected William to like it.

"Well, blue generally doesn't suit people. But it looks ok on you."

"Thank you."

"But I kind of wish you wouldn't influence the little ones."

"I think they've learned by now that being like me will only get them into trouble."

No one said anything for a few minutes. Finally William asked her, "Is there something you wanted, or are you just showing off your new hairdo?"

"I have so many other things I should be doing. I'm supposed to be reading a book for class. I'm supposed to be writing an essay for another class. But I feel this irresistible desire to be writing something that only I want to write. Not exactly that- but something that I choose to write. Why must we be forced to do what everyone tells us to do anyway? Why is it that deadlines must control our lives? Aren't there civilizations without an organized calendar and without a second/minute/hour time piece that function perfectly fine? Is it a good thing that I feel guilty for writing what I feel and not what I should be doing?"

There was a long pause.

"So you're procrastinating."

"Yeah."

"Oh. Ok. Make yourself at home."

"How long before you hear about Fries?"

"Hopefully within the next two weeks."

"Are you nervous?"

"Not really. I figure if we lose him, I'll just go and kidnap him."

"That's good to know."

"If it were you, I'd just give you a credit card and tell you to meet me in Venice or something."

"I'm flattered. Can you give me your credit card anyway? I promise to meet you in Venice eventually."

"Nice try."

There was another long pause while Storm looked aimlessly around the room. She walked over behind him to look at the comics he had tacked on the billboard. William continued his work on his computer. She chuckled at one of the Far Sides.

"Which one are you looking at?" William asked, and turned around. He suddenly realized how far up her had to look at her. "How tall are you?" he asked, surprised.

"Five eight."

"Are you still growing?"

"Yeah. It really bites being a head taller than all my girlfriends and even taller than some boyfriends."

"Hmm."

"What made you ask?"

"The distance I had to look up at you."

She grinned down at him.

"Having an inferiority complex?"

"Not on your life," he shot back in good humour. "Go on. Let me work. Go and procrastinate somewhere else."

"Aren't you supposed to be my father and tell me to do my homework?"

"Yes. But I'm not. You're old enough to know the consequences of not doing your homework. If you want to have a career in flipping hamburgers, I'm not going to pressure you into making good grades."

"You take the fun out of it," she whined as she left his office.

William was on a search for Elizabeth. He wanted to talk to her about something. It wasn't urgent, but it bugged him that he couldn't find her. She wasn't on the ground floor. So he took the elevator up to the first. He knocked on her door. No one answered. It was late at night. It was conceivable that she was already asleep. He thought for a second and then decided she rarely went to sleep this early. He opened the door quietly. She wasn't in her room... maybe the bathroom.

He moved into the quiet room. He heard her voice. She was singing. He looked in the bathroom. It was empty. Confused, he looked around the room. Maybe it was a radio somewhere. He listened. No, it was definitely her voice.

He followed the sound and discovered that it came from one of the baby monitors lined up on her bedside table.

"Brown paper packages tied up with string, these are a few of my favourite things. When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I'm feeling sad, I simply remember my favourite things and then I don't feel so bad."

"Sing it again, Lizzy."

"No, baby. It's time for you to be asleep."

"But I'm scared."

"There won't be any more bad dreams, I promise. I'm right here."

"Please?"

"Lie down and close your eyes and maybe I'll sing another."

There was a pause. Then she began to croon the lullaby Mary Poppins sang to the children in bed.

"... While the moon drifts in the sky, stay awake, don't close your eyes. Though the world is fast asleep, though the pillow's soft and deep, you're not sleepy as you seem. Stay awake don't nod and dream."

William left her room and began to get ready for bed.

"You know baby, it's funny how you can be so close to someone and yet so far. How many times have I wished something would happen? Some event that would finally cause me to tell him that I have more than friendly feelings for him. That I love him. And I wish he would love me too. But every day he acts as if we were only friends. So I can't bring myself- I just don't have the courage to tell him. But I wish I didn't have to keep it trapped inside of me all the time. I'm sure it's unhealthy." She sighed. "That night I accidentally fell asleep in his bed... I still think about it. The feeling of waking up in his arms. It felt normal. Well... until I realized what had happened. I wish I could wake up in his arms every morning. Look at me. I'm confessing my heart to a sleeping seven-year-old." She kissed the babe.

William came out of the boys' bathroom and saw Elizabeth coming out of Lily's room.

"Oh!" exclaimed Elizabeth, flushing deeply. "You scared me. I thought you were downstairs."

"I came up for bed." William thought she was being self-conscious about her singing, so he decided not to mention that he'd heard her beautiful voice.

"Ok. Well, good night."

"Good night."

William went into his room while Elizabeth went back downstairs to finish a few chores left undone.

"William, I can't take it anymore."

"What?"

"Storm."

William put down the papers he was reading and looked up at Fries. "What about her?"

"She's been playing her heavy metal music for three days now."

"Really?"

"Yes. And you remember what I told you about why she does it."

"Because she's in a bad mood."

"Not just a bad mood. She's really angry or depressed about something."

"What do you want me to do about it? Do you want me to ask her to turn it down?"

"You can't just ask her to turn it down. She won't listen to reasoning and it only makes her worse."

"So what do I do then?"

Fries sighed exasperatedly. "You have to go and talk with her."

"What, you mean father daughter like?"

"Not exactly, but you need to go be her confidante."

"Go talk to your mother. She's the one who deals with these things."

"She's not here. I thought you knew that."

"Where is she?"

"Don't you keep track of your own wife?" asked Fries.

Fries immediately regretted saying that. William looked really hurt.

"I'm sorry, William. I didn't mean it. I'm really sorry."

"Don't worry about it," said William in a low voice. "I'll go talk to Storm."

"I'm sorry, William, really I am," persisted Fries.

"It's ok. Go practice or do homework or something."

William left Fries standing in the office feeling two inches tall.

William took the elevator to the third floor and immediately heard the loud heavy metal coming from the closed door at the end of the hall. William wheeled himself in front of it and knocked.

A minute passed and William knocked louder. Still no answer. He looked around to see if anyone were about. None of the other children came up to the third floor, really, and Fries had been sent to practice. William banged on the door as loud as he could.

The music was turned down for a few moments. The door opened and Storm's scowling face looked out. It relaxed a little when she saw it was William.

"What do you want?"

"Could I talk to you for a moment?"

"I'm busy."

"I know, it'll only take a couple of moments."

She hesitated for a good while, then opened the door wide enough for him to come in.

William looked around. "Wow. I don't remember ever seeing your room before."

The most striking characteristic of the room was the black ceiling. Glow-in-the-dark stars and constellations and planets peeked out of the inky blackness. A black light provided the only meager light there was in the room. A large stereo was on a shelf in the wall. Underneath the stereo was a case full of CDs. On the other side of the room was a futon stretched out to the bed form. The sheets were a loud black and white zigzag. A lavalamp glowed on the overstocked bookshelves and clothes littered the area in front of the closet. In the middle of the room, schoolbooks and a backpack and pens and paper were strewn about.

"This is a neat room."

Storm didn't say anything. She stood there and glared at him.

William decided to cut to the chase.

"Can I ask you what's wrong?"

"No."

"Good. What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Bull----."

Storm was mildly surprised he said a bad word.

William suddenly said, "Hey, this is Metallica."

Storm looked really surprised.

"I prefer Smashing Pumpkins myself, but well... you know they broke up and that kind of ruins things for you."

"You know Smashing Pumpkins?"

"Don't you?"

Storm looked offended. "Of course I do."

"What other kind of music do you like? Do you mind if I looked at your CDs?"

She shook her head.

He wheeled himself closer to the large collection of CDs. After a few moments he said, "You've got a good, eclectic taste. Bob Marley... Jimi Hendrix... Enigma... Sarah McLachlan... Matchbox 20- I like them a lot-... Simon and Garfunkel- I almost got to go to one of their concerts-"

"What happened?"

"I got hit by a drunk driver."

"Oh."

"Just goes to show you how fleeting chances can be."

"Did you... did you get a whole different view of life?"

"H-ll yeah. I would not be in here with you- or anywhere near this house if it hadn't been for the accident."

"Are you grateful then?"

"I didn't come in here to talk about me."

"Well we're not going to talk about me, I can guarantee you that."

"Why not?" William turned to face her. "I mean, you know more about me than I do about you. Frankly, I don't want to adopt a girl I don't even know. So since I was finished with my work tonight and I figured you couldn't possibly be doing any work with Metallica blaring through the whole top floor, this would be a good opportunity to talk."

"I'm not good at talking."

"Nonsense. I know enough about you to disbelieve that."

Storm threw herself on her futon.

"What do you want to know?"

"How about if you tell me what you like to do in your spare time?"

"You sound like a college application."

"Maybe I should just go read all of your applications to get an idea of what not to ask you."

"No. No. I like to paint. I like to read a lot. I like going out to see movies. And I like surfing the internet. And going to clubs."

"Do you go on your own or with friends?"

"With friends. It's not fun going on your own."

"Do you meet new people or just stick around your friends mostly."

"No, I meet some really interesting people in clubs."

"How can you be old enough to get in?"

"They're clubs for younger kids."

"Liar. You have a fake ID. You can tell me. I won't do anything."

"Really?"

"Sure. I had one when I was your age. Except it's harder for guys to pass as being older. Girls can just put on the right clothes and makeup and be fine."

"You had a fake ID? Did they have clubs when you were my age?"

"Good grief! I'm hurt! How old do you think I am?"

"Uh... I shouldn't answer that question."

"I'm more afraid of the answer than you are. Yes, I had a fake ID once upon a time. But are you using it to get alcohol?" asked William in a more serious voice.

"No, William. I never drink. My mother was an alcoholic."

"Oh, I'm sorry I didn't know that. Doesn't that create difficulties with your friends?"

"Not my old ones, generally. There was the time when I called you to pick me up. But most of the time my friends know not to talk about it with me. New acquaintances need the explanation before they let up on me."

"Do you mind telling near strangers about your mum?"

"Not really. I don't give a rat's ass about her, so I don't care if I pull her name through the mud. She messed her life up, she messed my life up, I think it only fair she take the blame."

"How is your life messed up?"

"I don't want to talk about it."

"Why not? It'd be good to get it out."

"What, are you my therapist?" Storm snapped.

"Do you have one? Do you need one?" William shot back.

"No."

"Look, Storm. I don't want to be a real father to you. I can't. You may know a lot about my present life, but nothing about my past life. I am not qualified to be a father, and I know that. But I do want to help. I want to gain your trust. I want you to feel like you could tell me anything. Well... except those really personal girl things. You can talk to Elizabeth about those. But anything else. I swear you can ask me anything in the world, and I will answer truthfully, if you will only trust me and talk to me. What's the worst I can do? I don't know your friends so I can't humiliate you in front of them. I don't have the power to ground you or punish you really. You're nearly a grown woman anyway."

Storm stared off into space for a long time.

Then she asked, "Are you glad you got in the accident?"

"This has to be a deal between the two of us," said William, and held out his hand to her to shake.

She shook it.

"Yes," said William.

"Why?"

"Because my life was horrible before the accident."

"But wasn't your life horrible after it?"

"Yeah. It was worse after the accident until I met Fries. And that brightened my days up a whole lot. Then I went into a decline when I had to go to my aunt's house. Then when I moved back here and Elizabeth snapped me out of my self-loathing, I started to have a better life than ever."

"Where are your parents?"

"They passed on when I was young. I'm an orphan."

"Wow. Were you ever adopted?"

"No. I was twenty when my father passed on. I was on my own by then."

"Do you miss them?"

"Yeah, sort of. I've forgotten what they were like a lot of times. It was a little over ten years ago."

"So I can ask you anything I want?"

"Anything."

"Do you love Elizabeth?"

"Woah, that's not fair."

"Of course it is. Anything, you said."

William stared at her for a few moments. She stared back defiantly. William was first to look away.

"Why do you care?"

"Answer the question first."

William sighed. "Yes."

"Why don't you tell her?"

"Because it's not reciprocated."

"How do you know?"

"I just do."

"I don't believe that."

"I won't believe you."

"Is that why you married her?"

"No. It truly was because of Fries."

"How convenient for you."

"Not really. Look, enough of the questions about me. It's your turn now."

"Fine."

"Why are you playing heavy metal?"

"Because I like it."

"Is there anything that's happened recently in your life to cause you to be angry or upset."

"Yes."

"Tell me about it."

"That's not a question."

"It doesn't have to be. Come on, Storm. Tell me what happened."

"You wouldn't understand."

"Try me."

"You haven't understood in the past."

"Try me again."

Storm's face pouted. "You'll think it's silly."

"I promise you, I won't."

"You can't do anything about it."

"Maybe so, but getting it off your chest helps anyway."

"It's a number of things, really. We had this huge project to do for my theatre class. It's a big part of our grade. And Shannon, Kim, Jeff, and Sidd were all in my group. We had to research early Greek tragedies, and do a short version of one in front of the class. Well, Shannon didn't show up for three of the four times we got together to work on the project. She kept making up excuses and promised she would have her lines memorized and costume and everything. Well, the day arrives for the presentation, and she fumbled a lot of her lines, blanked out once, and didn't have costume resembling the rest of ours. Because of her, we all got a low grade. When I confronted her, she acted as if it wasn't her fault.

"Then a couple of days later, Jerri suddenly starts being really cold to me. I asked her what was the matter and she said she was mad because she found out I went out on Saturday night with a group of friends and Max happened to be in the group. So she's accusing me of stealing her boyfriend. Then since Shannon's mad at me for the theatre thing, she took sides with Jerri even though Shannon was there and knew perfectly well I didn't do anything with Max. Then in chemistry, I studied so hard for this exam, harder than ever before, and I got a C+. And on top of all that, I have a ton of homework to do and I'm just in a really bad mood. And I keep trying to think of something to bring me out of that mood, but I can't think of anything. I can't really go out since I have all this homework, but I hate the thought of doing it."

She finished, replacing the pout on her face with a scowl. A very grumpy scowl.

"I know how you feel."

"No you don't."

"Yes, I do. Grown ups get that feeling too, you know."

"You mean I can't look forward to these times going away when I grow up?"

" 'Fraid not kiddo."

"I know you did not just call me 'kiddo'."

"Of course not. It was a figment of your imagination. Storm, if you were to want my advice, which I know you don't, I would say go and talk to your teachers about your theatre and chemistry grades. See what they say, how they can help, and do what they say within reason. For the other problems, I say either talk to Max and let him explain what really happened to his jealous girlfriend, or just let it run its course. Coolly deny all accusations and imply that she's the immature one. And finally, I say do a little bit of homework now, break for some kind of craving- whichever you're having right now- and then do some more, and then take a break and reward yourself again, and then finish it up. So what do you crave right now?"

"Chocolate chip cookies."

"Ok. You do a third of your homework now. Get something done, come and find me, and we'll bake chocolate chip cookies."

"Won't Elizabeth disapprove?"

"Course not. I'll just turn on my charm and she'll be eating out of my hands."

"Literally?" asked Storm with a suggestive raise of the eyebrows.

William blushed to his chagrin. "No. Figuratively. Go on. Get some work done."

"Fine. I'll try it."

"And change the music. Try classical. Some good Debussey. I'm sure Fries has some. I thought I saw some really good Tchaikovsky on your shelf."

"Can I ask you one more question?"

"Yes."

"Will you and Elizabeth ever get divorced? I mean, once you've adopted Fries."

"But we're adopting you next."

"So after I'm adopted, will you?"

"Honestly Storm, I don't ever want to get divorced, but if some man comes along and sweeps Elizabeth off her feet, I won't be one to stand in the way, as long as I get joint custody of you and Fries."

"Really? You'd want joint custody of me, too?"

"Sure. We've a pact now. You can't escape me."

Storm smiled.

"I'll expect you to come find me later tonight. Don't go baking cookies without me, now."

"I won't."

William left Storm's room and went downstairs to the laundry room to fold some of the endless laundry flowing through the house.

Forty-five minutes later, Storm came searching for William. She found him in the den bending over as much as he could to pick up a book left laying on the floor.

"Here, I got that," she said. She picked it up and put it back on the shelf.

"So you're done with some of that homework?"

She nodded. "I'm ready for some cookies, now."

"Let's go. Elizabeth isn't home, yet."

"Where is she?"

"No idea."

They went into the kitchen and Storm got the ingredients down from the cupboards while William read them out.

"Ok. It says to mix the wet ingredients first."

"What are the wet ingredients?"

"I guess the butter, the oil, the egg and the milk."

"All right. Done that. Now what?"

"Add the baking soda, salt and sugar. Now add the flour."

"While I do that, you grease the cookie tins."

"Where are they?"

"They should be in the drawer underneath the oven."

"Found them. How many do we need?"

"Well, we're making a double batch, so I would say four sheets."

"Four? I only see three."

"There's another one somewhere. Look in the oven."

"Oh, found it. Shouldn't we be turning the oven on anyway?"

"Oh yeah. That was your job."

"No it wasn't."

"It should say in the directions and you didn't say anything about it, so it's your fault."

"Fine. I'm heating it to 375 degrees. Now what?"

"Grease the tins."

"Oh yeah."

"What are you doing?" came a third voice.

William looked up from the tin he was greasing. "Elizabeth! There you are."

"What are you doing?" she asked again.

Jane chuckled as she walked in and started to put some groceries into the fridge. "Looks like they're making cookies, Lizzy."

"I can see that. But it's nearly eleven at night."

"Yeah, so?" said Charles following with another load of groceries. "What rule says when you can make cookies?"

William said, "Storm has a homework crunch tonight, so we're taking a study break to make some cookies."

"We're baking a double batch," said Storm.

"I leave the house to you one evening and I come back to find it a madhouse!"

"Elizabeth!" said Jane.

William was beginning to get a little bit angry. "You didn't tell me you were leaving the house to me. I didn't know you had gone and I still don't know where you went."

"So I'm supposed to report to you my every move?" asked Elizabeth heatedly. "Once married I'm chained to the home?"

"Not at all. I merely would like to know when you leave me in charge of the house alone. If one of the children were in need, how would I know I was the only one on call?"

"I told Fries to tell you we were going out."

"Well your messenger didn't get through to me. You know how Fries is! If he's in the practice room he can't be relied on to remember anything you tell him, plus he loses all sense of time."

Storm had stopped mixing and was staring wide-eyed at the arguing couple. Jane looked like she wanted to interfere but knew better of it. Charles hung fearfully in the background and eyed Jane occasionally to see if she was signaling some kind of plan.

Elizabeth flung her keys on the counter and snapped, "Just clean up when you're done." She walked out of the kitchen.

There was an awkward silence after she left.

"I'm sorry, William," began Storm timidly.

"Don't be. It's not your fault. Come on. What do I do next? You can't take too long a study break."

Storm took her cue from William and finished mixing the cookie batter.

Jane and Charles finished putting the groceries away and said good night to the two chefs.

"Hold on," said William as Storm was about to put the dough on the trays. "You need the chocolate chips."

"Oh my gosh! I forgot."

"Geez, that's the most important part."

"I know. You slacked off on your job again."

"Did not. You should have enough sense to remember them yourself."

"What would they taste like without the chocolate chips?"

"Don't know. Why don't you make a couple without any chips in them?"

"Ok."

Once the chips were well mixed in, together they spooned the dough into little mounds and put them into the oven.

"Set the timer going."

"How long?" asked Storm.

"35 minutes."

"Ok."

"Now go and do some more homework."

"Ok."

She started to leave, then stopped and said, "What are you going to do about Elizabeth?"

"Nothing."

"You can't do nothing."

"She's probably just had a bad day."

"Yeah, so you need to go talk to her. I've had my bad days recently. I should know. What good would your talk with me have done if we'd had it a week from now when I was fine? You need to go talk to her now."

"But she's mad at me."

"Go and start by apologizing for making her mad. That's what a teacher of mine advised me to do once. It means you don't take blame for doing something you did right, but it makes them think you've apologized."

"I thought I was supposed to be the one dispensing the advice."

"You get what you give."

"All right. I'll try and talk to her."

"Good."

"Go up and finish your homework. And take the timer with you."

"That means I have to go up and down three flights of stairs to check up on the cookies."

"You'll be working off the fat you're going to eat with the cookies."

Storm went upstairs and William went in search of Elizabeth. He found her in the den.

"Hi," he said.

She didn't look up at him.

William came forward next to the sofa.

"I'm sorry I upset you. I never knew you were out of the house until Fries came into my office and complained that Storm was playing her heavy metal too loud. I suggested he talk to you and he just said you were out and that he didn't know where. I didn't know Jane and Charles weren't here until they came into the kitchen. This house is so big it's hard to tell if someone isn't here. And I didn't think you'd mind us baking cookies. Storm's had a rough few days and I suggested we bake them as a study break. If I'd known it would upset you, I would have thought of something else."

Elizabeth didn't say anything.

William began to feel himself getting annoyed again, so he turned to leave. He'd done his part.

"Wait," she said.

He stopped and looked at her.

"I'm sorry." She looked uncomfortable and upset. "I have no rationale for my behaviour. It's been a very long, trying day. I was up part of last night with Eva who was having bad dreams. I'm tired and grumpy and I should not have taken it out on you."

William's heart immediately went out to her, but he didn't move.

"Usually I can deal with these days, but recently my resolve is weakening." Her voice began to choke up with tears. "I can't help thinking of Fries. I love him so much but they're trying to take him away from me." She began to cry in earnest.

William gave in to his aching heart and moved next to the couch to envelope her in his arms as best he could. She gratefully buried her face in the crook of his neck and shoulder, wrapping her arms around his torso. He gently stroked her back and hair, murmuring soothing words of comfort.

Five minutes later, she began to pull herself together again.

William said, "You're just tired. Why don't you go upstairs and go to bed now. If you're awake when the cookies are done, I'll bring some milk and cookies up too. Go soak in your bathtub and listen to some nice music."

Elizabeth laughed a little.

"Go on. There's nothing left for you to do down here."

She nodded. "I'm sorry I yelled at you, William."

"It's ok. As long as you didn't mean it, I understand."

She looked up at him. Smiling wanly, she said, "You're too good to me. You're the best friend a girl could ever have."

William forced a smile. He leaned forward and kissed her forehead. "I'll be up in half an hour."

Elizabeth got up and went upstairs for a long, hot, bubble bath.

William, meanwhile, buried his face in his hands for five minutes. A few tears might have leaked out, but I won't betray his pride like that.

When the cookies were done, Storm came down and got them out of the oven. William came into the kitchen, following his nose.

"Did you talk to her?" asked Storm.

"Yeah. She's just had a long day. She's taking a long bath right now. I'm going to take her some milk and cookies in a few minutes."

"Good. So you two made up?"

"Yeah."

"Good. I was scared."

"I'm sure you were. We should not have argued in front of you."

"You shouldn't argue anywhere."

"True, but we should make a special effort not to argue in front of you kids."

"I'm not a kid."

"Course you are."

"I'm a young adult."

"A very mature young adult at that."

"Who loves her milk and cookies."

They put the cookies on the racks to cool, while Storm put half a dozen on a plate and grabbing a big glass of milk, went upstairs to finish her homework.

William put four on a separate plate, grabbed a napkin, and poured a mug of milk. He put the mug, plate and napkin on a tray in his lap and then took the elevator to the second floor.

He knocked on Elizabeth's door. She called for him to enter, and he opened the door and carefully wheeled in.

"Hi. Brought you some homemade cookies."

Elizabeth was sitting up in bed with a book. She smiled at him.

"Have the roles not reversed, my dear?" asked William with a grin.

"If I was a really cranky old fusspot maybe they would. But you've got it easy compared to what I suffered through."

"You're never going to let me live that down are you?"

"Nope. Whenever you put on your good boy act, I'll pull out my stories of the past to humble you."

William smiled at her and handed her the tray. She took it in her lap and took a bite of one of the cookies.

"Very good," she said. "I give you the Bennet Seal of Approval."

"Couldn't I award myself the Bennet Seal of Approval, since I'm a Bennet?"

"No. It's the E. Bennet Seal of Approval."

"Oh, well, never mind then."

While she was taking another bite, William said, "I had a long talk with Storm this evening. She's been struggling with some issues recently."

"Shoot. I had no idea." She cursed a couple of times at herself until William stopped her.

"You can't blame yourself completely. You've been so busy with everything else."

"I know, but she and Fries are my primary concerns in a lot of ways. I haven't been there for her in her teen years."

"Well, I didn't hear any sort of blame from her. She doesn't hold you in any way responsible. Anyroad, it took some time to get her trust, but eventually we arranged a mutual agreement and had a good long talk. It resulted in baking cookies to make her feel better."

"I'm glad."

"Hopefully in the future, she'll come and talk to me before it gets to the heavy metal stage."

"Good luck."

William paused. Then decided to go on. "Elizabeth... if you are going to... argue with me again, you need to- I mean if we argue, we need to take it away from the children. It was not very good this evening to have Storm and Jane and Charles witness our fight. No matter how angry we are with each other, we have to remember to keep that anger from the children. It's frightening to them."

"Yes, all right."

"I accept partial blame for tonight, too. But in the future, we have to keep that in mind."

"I'll put my money on no more fights in the future, but if there happens to be one, it will be behind closed doors."

"I hope there are no more fights. I do not like arguing with you, my dear."

Elizabeth looked at him with deep affection. She reached out for his hand. He took it and squeezed it. Finally he kissed her hand and left the room to go clean up the kitchen.

Elkin walked through the front door. William, came out of his office upon hearing her.

"Hey kiddo."

"Hi Willyam."

"How was school?"

"Ok."

"Did you show your friends your lost tooth?"

"No."

"Why not? I thought you wanted to show off the gap in your mouth."

"Yeah, but you said we should have humblicity."

William couldn't help giggling at the child's inventing new words.

"You mean humility?"

"Yeah."

"That's good. But, you know, it depends on how you tell them. If you tell them and make yourself look better, that's not good. But if you tell them because they would like to see it, that's ok."

"Oh."

"So tomorrow, you can go up to your friends and give them a big smile and wiggle your tongue through the gap. And they'll think it's funny."

"Ok. Can I watch TV?"

"Don't you want to go outside and play? It's nice and sunny."

"No."

"I think you do. Come on. I'll play catch with you if you want."

"Really?"

"Sure. Come on. We can see who throws the longest."

"Cool!" Elkin ran into the shed to fetch a few balls.

William put an Away message on his Instant Messenger, and went outside into the backyard. The grass had recently been mowed, making it easier for William to move around.

Elkin came running out of the house.

"Ready?" she asked.

"Hold on. Let's move away from the house a little more so we don't hit any windows."

She giggled infectiously.

"Ok. Now are you ready?" she said.

"Yep."

She threw the ball towards him. It landed a few yards short.

"Good throw!" said William and moved forward to pick it up. He tossed it back and she nearly caught it. She picked it up and threw it back. This time William caught the ball. William praised her and gently tossed it back again.

Meanwhile, on William's computer, a message popped up:

William, I need to ask you something about the Monroe/Watson agreement next week.

Hi. Sorry I'm out, but I'm currently being a loving father and enjoying every minute of it. Please leave a message and when I'm through playing ball, I might just answer your question.

Wow, William. Never thought I'd hear you say that. Well, give me a call or something when you get back to your work. It's Fenna by the way. How are things going with your wife, anyway?

In another part of the house, Elizabeth was changing some bedroom linen and happened to look outside. She stopped what she was doing and stood in front of the window watching Elkin and William play catch. She folded her arms and leaned comfortably against the window, content to spy on William being a doting father.

Later that night, William was reading the paper in the living room. Elizabeth came down the stairs after tucking in the last child. She spotted him in the living room and went in for the evening talk they generally liked to have before going to bed.

William looked up and smiled at her. He finished the article he was reading and then said, "There was an interesting article on the conservation techniques used in Canada."

"Really?"

"Yeah. They have a lot of land set aside, but at the same time some groups still say that regulations aren't as tough as they can be elsewhere."

"Yeah. Problem with conservation is that so many times, first world countries look at the disappearing rainforests in Brazil and Indonesia and try and stop it. But they don't realize the reasoning behind the devastation. If farmers had enough good farm land, or could make enough money to support their family on the land they have, they wouldn't cut down more rainforests which ends up supporting farming only for a few years max before there's no nutrients left and they have to cut down more forest. And in other places the reason is a lack of fuel besides wood. But first world countries don't solve the underlying problems behind the environmental ravaging."

William smirked at her and said, "I was just making a casual observation from the newspaper, I didn't mean to start a lecture."

Elizabeth was embarrassed and apologized for getting carried away.

"It's ok," said William. "I agree with you, so you're trying to convince someone on your side. I was touched though," he teased. "Truly touched."

She smacked him playfully.

"So..." she said after they changed subjects. "I saw you playing with Elkin this afternoon."

"Yeah. It was fun. She wanted to watch TV, but I forced her to entertain me."

"I'm sure you did."

"As soon as I got her outside, she forgot about TV, which was my goal. And then as soon as some of the other kids saw how much fun we were having, they wanted to play too, so pretty soon, they were all out there."

"Well done. I'm really impressed," she said seriously.

"Thank you. Oh, and it was so funny when Elkin said that she thought I had told her to have 'humblicity'. I know it's horrible to laugh at the kids and make them feel stupid, but it was just so funny, I couldn't help laughing."

"I know. Every now and then, they'll say something so funny you can't help it. The other day Eva said 'purplicity'."

"Purplicity?"

"Yeah. She was talking about purple and how it's her favourite colour. And then she said something like there should be more purplicity in the world. But every now and then they'll say a word that technically should make sense, but doesn't."

"Like what?"

"Well, the only example I can think of right now is ruth."

"Ruth? As in the name?"

"No. As in ruthless. I remember one of my kids once saying that he had ruth. Think about it. If you can be ruthless, can you be ruthful?"

"I think so. But no one ever says it."

"And yet the kids think of stuff like that."

"Do you remember the show Bill Cosby did for a while recently?"

"You mean Kids Say the Darndest Things?"

"Something like that, yeah."

"It was cute."

They didn't say anything for a few minutes. Finally William asked, "Have you heard anything about the adoption?"

"No."

"Don't worry, it should come soon."

Not long after that, Elizabeth received an important looking letter in the mail. She stared at it for several minutes. It was from the social workers' office. It seemed to be thin. Only one or two sheets of paper within. She didn't know if that was bad.

Unable to open it herself, she rushed into the office and shoved it in William's hands.

"Open it."

"What is it?"

"I can't bear to look. You have to open it and see."

William caught her apprehension and stared at the envelope for some time. Finally, he took out the letter opener and slit the envelope neatly across the top fold. He pulled out a single, folded sheet of paper.

Taking a deep breath, William unfolded it and quickly scanned the contents. Within seconds, Elizabeth knew it wasn't the answer they had been hoping for. She held back tears and buried her face in her hands.

William said, "It says that none of Fries' relatives have claimed him, but the Biltmores are appealing the decision and we will have to appear in court to fight for him."

Elizabeth looked up. "You're joking!

"I wouldn't joke about this."

"I've never heard of such a thing."

"Apparently the Biltmores are prepared to pull out all the stops on this thing."

"Well, we will just have to embarrass them in court, then. When is it set for?"

"I'm surprised because usually there's a long waiting list for civil suits in court, but this one is set for the week after next."

"That's fine. It gives us enough time to get our own lawyer. But the sooner this is over, the sooner I will be able to breathe again."

Elizabeth left to call the lawyer and to talk to Fries.

Two weeks of frantic preparation ended in a solemn procession of Bennet Mansion inhabitants marching into the courtroom. All save Fries, Elizabeth and William. They entered with the lawyer to sit at the defendants' table within the courtroom. Seated at the other table were the dreadful Biltmores and a stuffed shirt lawyer looking through his spectacles at the Bennets.

William leaned over and whispered to Fries, "If you end up with the Biltmores, you're always welcome to run away to us."

"William!" hissed Elizabeth, glaring at him.

Within minutes, everyone but William stood as the judge entered the courtroom. It was the same judge who had married the Bennets and the Bingleys. Elizabeth looked down at William with a worried face. Was this good or bad? she seemed to ask.

"You may be seated."

Elizabeth sat through the speeches and arguing in silence. Numb silence. Meditative silence. For a while she stared at Fries. When Fries finally became aware of her scrutiny, he smiled encouragingly at her. She attempted a smile in return, but failed. He took her hand in his and leaned forward to kiss her cheek. "I love you," he whispered.

Elizabeth eyes began to fill with tears and she whispered back, "I love you more."

William also couldn't seem to pay attention. He kept drifting off into memories of Fries as a young boy, when he was still bedridden from his accident. He remembered Fries crawling onto his bed and chattering away as if they had always known each other. He remembered Fries growing older and more mature. His sneaky attempts at setting up him and Elizabeth. His first elite party. His performances. Their excursions to the city for plays and concerts. Their recent relationship becoming more familial.

The Bennets' lawyer extolled their virtues and explained the benefit Fries received from them.

In return, the Biltmores' lawyer pointed out William's disability, the fact that their marriage was hastily arranged, and that of the individual treatment Fries would receive in their hands.

William couldn't help but hearing this. He was incensed. He was so angry he couldn't think straight. When the lawyer sat down, William moved away from the table.

"Your Honor, may I speak?"

The judge looked down at William. After some moments of consideration, she said, "You may."

"I cannot see how my being disabled should make me a bad father. Disability is a social construction. If I were not living in a world designed for able-bodied people, I would be fine. But since able-bodied people are in the majority and are in power, I am handicapped. This does not take away my ability to be a good father. Just because I cannot run and play football with my son, does not mean I love him any less. Because I cannot stand up to hug him, does not diminish my pride and joy in him. My decision-making capability is fully intact. I am not brain-damaged. I function as a normal human being.

"When I was recuperating from my accident, I can honestly say I had nothing to live for. But along came Elizabeth, bringing with her this disarming, darling little boy who instantly won my heart over and has refused to give it back ever since. He became my best friend. He became my reason for making it through another day. Then he brought me closer to Elizabeth. And though it was completely against my will, I began to admire her more and more. It wasn't long before I fell in love with her. But I was still half a man- I couldn't possibly offer myself as any considerable suitor to this amazing woman. So we stayed friends. Then when we became in danger of losing Fries we realized we had to unite to keep him in our lives. He meant too much to us to let him go. I admit I used the situation to become closer to the woman I love. But no one in this world can prove that I do not love my wife more than most husbands love their wives. By taking away Fries, you would be breaking up a very closely knit, loving family depending on each other for daily support."

William moved back to the table, avoiding eye contact with Elizabeth. He still felt flushed from baring his soul to the world.

The Biltmore lawyer made a few more vacuous arguments and then it came down to the judge's decision. She shuffled her notes and wrote a couple of things down. The courtroom was oppressively silent- even the Bennet children were all quietly, impatiently waiting.

Then the judge spoke. "I declare the Bennets' petition for the legal adoption of Eugene Arnold Otte to be the superior." She banged the gavel and everyone stood as she walked out of the courtroom.

Elizabeth erupted in a scream and grabbed Fries into a massive hug. "You're my son, you're my son, you're my son," she just kept repeating as she held him as tightly as she could.

"Mum," he said after a few moments. "You're crushing me!"

"Sorry."

The other children and the Bingleys came forward to congratulate them. Elizabeth sat back down and put a hand to her head. She felt giddily dizzy.

"Are you okay?" asked a warm, loving voice that could belong to none other than William.

Elizabeth looked up at him and smiled. "I've never been better in my life."

He couldn't seem to break eye contact with her. She just kept looking at him with those beautiful eyes of hers. He reached out, and took her hand in his. Slowly, ever so slowly, she leaned forward in her chair. William finally leaned forward and gently, lovingly caressed her lips with his. He pulled away and looked at her beatific face tilted to his. He returned, kissing her more thoroughly, more passionately. His hands cupped her face, some of his fingers entwining in her hair. She leaned forward enough to wrap her arms around him. It felt too awkward leaning so much, so she just scooted off her chair and onto his lap. William encircled her in his arms and continued to inflame her blood with his kisses. Finally, he pulled away and she buried her face in his shoulder.

"I love you," she said.

"Really?" he said, genuinely surprised.

"Of course, silly."

"Since when?"

"I can't pinpoint the exact moment, but certainly I knew I loved you when we married."

"If only I'd known...."

"You would have what?"

"I don't know. I certainly would've saved myself a lot anguish these past months."

"Anguish?"

William got fed up with talking and pulled her to him for a second round of passionate kisses. Elizabeth pulled away after a few of them, breathless.

She kissed him one more time, and then said, "Save the rest for later. We should celebrate getting our first son."

William looked so proud when he repeated, "Our son."

Elizabeth stood up and was brought into the hugs and congratulations with the children and Jane and Charles. Charles vigorously shook William's hand and said, "It's about time you made a clean breast of it."

"If I'd known she loved me I would have done so long ago."

It was some time before the couple was able to get away on their own. In fact, it wasn't until the children were in bed and they had kissed Fries good night. Since no one was blind in the courtroom, and everyone saw the Bennets' amour, Fries, Jane and Charles did their best to retire to bed early.

Elizabeth sighed and began to pick up dishes not put away and toys left around the house.

"Elizabeth," said William. He waited beside the elevator with the doors open. "I've watched you day after day do the same chores. Could you for once leave them be?"

She paused, looking at the love and desire in his face. She turned out the lights on the first floor, and then promptly returned to sit in his lap.

William kissed her firmly before moving them into the elevator and then into Elizabeth's room.

The End

---