Good morning Mom, Elizabeth yawned while she poured milk on her cereal as her mother walked into the kitchen.

Liz, you're up so early, Alice said stretching her arms behind her back. It's only six o'clock. Cara and your brother are still asleep. Your father's in the shower.

Well, I'm still on east coast time, Elizabeth explained, sitting down and smiling at her mother.

You should see Nathan, Alice bragged about her grandson. He's gotten so big. When he was born, he was everything like Cara, but now…he looks just like Steve.

I'll have to catch up with them later, Elizabeth promised. I brought you all presents. Something small, but I didn't want to come home empty handed.

Your hair's gotten so long, Alice observed, as she ran a hand through her daughter's golden strands. You haven't cut it in a while? I like it. It looks so shiny, full, and silky.

That's because I let it dry naturally, or with a fan. I don't damage it by using too much heat, Elizabeth said, thinking of her tiny little bathroom that had no electrical outlet.

Dry naturally,? Alice said, her expression turning to concern. In the cold? Elizabeth you'll catch pneumonia over there! And who'll take care of you?

Mom, that's an old wives' tale. I'm not going to get sick because my hair's wet when I go outside.

Alice shook her head, determined not to battle with Elizabeth this early in the morning.

So how did you sleep,? she asked.

Like I never left. My bedroom is pretty big, compared to the small one I have in New York. I thought you would have bulldozed it by now.

We weren't about to make any huge changes without telling you about it first. Don't worry. You'll always have a room here. I've already drafted the plans to extend the house and made sure your room won't be a victim. And if you want to come home…..

Alice examined her sleepy daughter who appeared to be completely lost in thought. There was a brightness in her eyes and a rosiness in her cheeks. She looked paler than Alice was used to, but it was not a sickly pallor. Her lighter skin tone only emphasized her delicate heart shaped face and the smooth appearance of her skin.

Something was going on. Something that was putting a smile on Elizabeth's face, something that was lighting up her entire countenance, and Alice could only conclude that it was a man. Why else would her serious, responsible, determined daughter be grinning like a damn Cheshire cat so early in the morning? Elizabeth's mood was a dramatic contrast to the miserable, damaged girl that she had been just months before.

So how long are you staying Elizabeth? Alice asked.

Just three days Mom, I have to get back to work, Elizabeth said, averting her eyes.

I wish you would have told us you were coming. We would have planned things, prepared for your arrival.

I just didn't want you to make a fuss Mom. I don't need the whole of Sweet Valley knowing that I'm here, Elizabeth said pointedly, as she ran her fingers through her hair.

What you mean is that you didn't want your sister to know that you're here, Alice responded.

Elizabeth shrugged, clearly not wanting to talk about Jessica.

Alice attempted a new approach, not wanting to exasperate Elizabeth.

You didn't tell me how your Christmas was. I was so hoping you would have come earlier and spent it with your family where you belong. And what about New Year's? I wish you'd stay a little longer. Maybe I should call Jessica and….

Mom. Don't start please. I'm here now, isn't that enough? Let's just enjoy being together today and tomorrow and the day after.

Alice sighed as she poured herself a cup of coffee. So how did you spend the season? Alice stirred her coffee as she sat down at the table.

Well, I walked around the city as much as I could. I don't have a lot of free time. The decorations in the stores are magical.

Elizabeth laughed, her eyes sparkling. I almost had to battle with the throngs of tourists to get a glimpse of the big tree at Rockefeller Center.

Christmas on the East coast is wonderful. I went to see A Christmas Carol at Madison Square Garden.

And then I went to see the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center…. One of my room mates was in the chorus. Oh, and the Rockettes... I saw them too! I went to the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

Elizabeth I wish you would call us more, tell us everything that's going on with you. What about Christmas dinner? Who did you eat with?

Ummmm, Elizabeth bit her lip. I actually went to Connecticut on Christmas day.

Connecticut? Who do you know there?

A very nice lady named Mrs Wexford. She kind of adopted me after I saved her little dog in the subway. She lives in Greenwich.

Greenwich,? Alice raised her brows. So you went all the way to Connecticut to spend the day with strangers and you didn't think of your family? We spent the whole day listening for the phone, just to see if you'd call.

Mom, Greenwich is less than an hour away from the city.

Alice pursed her lips in disapproval.

I'm sorry Mom, Elizabeth bit her lip. You're right, I should have been more thoughtful and called here yesterday.

So who is this…this Mrs. Willford? She lives in Greenwich? She must be wealthy, Alice said knowingly.

Oh she is, Elizabeth agreed. It's Wexford, not Willford. She's very wealthy from what I've seen. But Mom, she's the nicest lady. She's been very kind to me.

Well you already have a mother here who loves you very much. And a father too. And a brother, sister and all your friends. There's no need for anyone to adopt you Elizabeth. I worry about you over there, all alone in that cold city.

And Steven told us all about that place you live in! That you have to go outside to do your laundry! And you have to cart it around up and down the stairs! And your groceries too!

And you have mice! And roaches! Really Elizabeth! Alice cried. What kind of life are you living over there? I have a good mind to fly back with you, pack you up and make you come home,! she threatened.

Mom, my place isn't that bad, Elizabeth started, defending her new lifestyle. I like my roommates. The cockroaches only come out in summer. I haven't seen one since late August. Everyone in New York has a shopping cart for their groceries and laundry. It's a bit of an inconvenience, but you just deal with it.

And the mice well, even rich people get mice in their apartments. If you live in a building that's nearly one hundred years old like I do, you're bound to get mice. And I live just a two minute walk from the train station. And a ten minute walk from a large park. That's actually a luxury in the city. And it's not that cold.

Thirty degrees is not that cold? We have the weather channel Liz. Just yesterday it was in the twenties!

Elizabeth took a bite of her cereal. No, it really isn't. Boston and upstate New York are colder. If you dress warmly, you barely feel it. And I actually like the winter weather.

She smiled. Having Swedish and English ancestry has to count for something Mom. There's nothing better than coming in from outside and getting all snugly in your bed. And I'm in better shape over there than I ever was here.

New Yorkers have to walk all over the city and climb lots of stairs. I don't even have to go to a gym, with all the exercise I get. I was spoiled, living in California and driving every where.

Alice frowned stubbornly. I just wish you were here with your family. But it sounds like you had a wonderful time.

Oh I did. I went skating at the rink in Bryant Park, she changed the subject. It was wonderful, Elizabeth grinned, her eyes far away, as she stirred the milk in her bowl.

What's so funny? Alice asked.

Hmmmm? Well, I almost fell a few times. It was beautiful though. New York City is amazing at Christmas.

Elizabeth moved her head upwards and Alice glimpsed at the elegant diamond horseshoe around her daughter's neck.

All right Elizabeth, Alice said, putting down her coffee. Let's stop beating around the bush! I am your mother. You cannot hide from me. I know something is up, and I know that when a young woman is gleaming with happiness that it usually involves a man.

Let's hear it. And what's that around your neck,? she demanded, as she reached across the table and examined the precious ornament with her hand. I know you didn't buy that yourself. So who is he?

Who is who? Elizabeth asked, her face a picture of innocence as she concentrated on her breakfast.

The member of the male species who has my daughter on cloud nine. I want to know his name. I know you didn't do all these things yourself, so who is it you're dating?

Mom, who said anything about me dating? She giggled again, a lazy smile on her face.

Elizabeth, I haven't seen you this silly since…. well, never mind about that. You're almost acting like Jessica, mooning over some guy,! Alice accused.

At the mention of her sister, Elizabeth frosted instantly. I would appreciate it if you wouldn't compare me to her!

Elizabeth! She is your sister, your identical twin sister. It's no surprise that you share some traits.

Elizabeth shot her mother a dirty look.

I know she misses you, Alice continued. That's all she talks about when we're alone. How much she wishes you were there with us. And she would like you to meet Jake.

Elizabeh's eyes blazed. Sure she does. No thank you, she said stiffly.

Alice reached out and put her hand on her daughter's shoulder. Come on Liz, can't you meet her half way?

Jessica has Todd now Mom, Elizabeth replied coldly. That should be good enough for her diabolical little heart.

Liz!

I don't want to meet her, don't want to talk to her and that's that.

Alice crossed her arms and looked sternly Elizabeth. Alright, I won't press you about your sister. But I'm not letting you off the hook. Now back to the topic at hand. Who is he?

A sudden smile brightened Elizabeth's face. Well Mom, if you must know. I have been spending time with someone.

Well? Alice raised her brow in question. Don't leave me in suspense.

It's someone you know. Remember Nicholas? Regina's brother?

Alice's eyes widened in recognition at the name. Nicholas Morrow? Yes I remember him.

He lives in New York too. In fact, he lives just north of me. It takes me just ten minutes to walk to his place.

Oh? His place? Alice nodded her head slowly. I see. And how and when did this all happen? I mean, how long has this been going on?

Well, I first saw him in Greenwich. I went there for a polo match that he was playing in. It's such a huge coincidence, that we met each other like we did. I mean, we live so near to each other, but New York is so crowded, I doubt I would ever have seen him if I didn't go to Connecticut.

We've been seeing each other. Elizabeth's cheeks turned pink as she faced her mother. I always liked him, but I was so immersed in Todd Wilkins to give him a chance. He liked me from back then when we first met. I don't know Mom, it's almost fate, the way we met up with each other.

Well, this is a surprise, Alice said thoughtfully. I didn't even know he was living back east. I remember when Regina died. She was so young…so young.

So how serious are the two of you?

I don't know. All I know is that I like being with him more than anything else. Elizabeth bit her lip. We're taking things slowly.

You know, your sister used to like him when the Morrows first moved into town, Alice remarked. She wouldn't shut up about him, and the mansion that the family lives in.

Of course she did, said Elizabeth. She falls in love with every boy who is rich and good looking. Too bad for her that she's not his type, Elizabeth said, her eyes fierce.

Yes I know, Alice said, shaking her head. I remember that whole debacle with you going out with him behind Todd's back. All the while Jessica claimed him for herself. It saddens me the way the two of you let boys get between you.

Well, that doesn't matter now does it Mom. She's gotten her prize, what she's always wanted. She has her baby and her husband, and she doesn't need me.

I'd appreciate it if you didn't discuss any aspect my relationship with her. In fact, I would appreciate it if you wouldn't discuss me at all. Not with her. I mean it Mom. Just let her pretend I'm dead!

Elizabeth,! Alice put her hands on her hips. Why are you being so harsh?

Because I want nothing to do with her, that's all. I think we'd all be better off if I cease to exist for her.

Alice shook her head. I don't like this, I don't like it one bit. You're three thousand miles away from your family. And like I said, you don't call us enough. You don't let us in on anything that's going on with you!

I'm sorry Mom. I'll try to call more often. And I'm thinking about maybe moving soon, to a nicer place, Elizabeth stated, trying to appease her mother.

Nicer place in California? Alice said hopefully.

No, nicer place in New York, Elizabeth answered. But everywhere in the city is so expensive, she continued. I'm making more money now than when I started. I'm now an assistant producer of our television show. I'm not a millionaire, but it's a lot better than what I started with.

So don't worry about my horrible apartment. Steven made it sound worse than it is. Most people who move to New York have to put up with crappy living conditions when they first get there. It's a rite of passage.

Alice put her hands around Elizabeth's. I just miss you, that's all. Why don't you stay for New Year's? Jessica told me she has plans to go to a party. She's going to one tonight also. So I doubt she'll be here anytime soon. And today is the semi annual sale at Foxy Mama's. You know she won't miss that.

Elizabeth shook her head. I can't Mom. I'd love to, but Nicholas, he's taking me somewhere.

Oh? No wonder you want to go back so soon. Where is he taking you?

I don't know yet. Wherever it is, I'll sure I'll be happy, ringing in the new year with him.

Alice shook her head in defeat. Well, what can I say, she shrugged. Spending time with your boyfriend is much more appealing than blowing trumpets with your old Mom and Dad on New Year's.

You're a grown woman. It's hard when your children grow up and have their own lives. So Nicholas…. he makes you happy?

Elizabeth's face lit up. He makes me very happy.

Well I'm glad. I'll have to fly out there one of these days to see how things really are. Your father will join me. We'll stay at a hotel. Maybe we'll track down Nicholas and have a chat with him.

Mom, You wouldn't dare!

Oh yes we would! Alice took a sip of her coffee. You're not off the hook young lady. Are you….. are you having…I mean are the two of you…..are the two of you… intimate?

Mom! Elizabeth cringed at where the conversation was going. I don't want to talk about that!

But we are going to talk about it, Alice pressed. You're no longer a child. I'm worried about you.

I don't want you to become a rich man's plaything, Alice cautioned knowingly. You need to be more frank about these things, to know how to protect yourself. Well?

We haven't done it yet, Elizabeth said, her face the same color as the ketchup on the counter. And Nicholas is nothing like Hank Patman!

It was Alice's turn to flush with embarrassment.

And I already know all about sex, Elizabeth continued. I don't need a lecture!

Well, I hope you'll be careful if you do. Alice said.

Mom, I know what I'm doing.

Elizabeth, you told me the same thing when you were with Todd. And look how that turned out. I don't want you to get in over your head. You've always been very intelligent, the smartest of my three children.

At the same time, you've always been the most sensitive, the most naive, the furthest behind when it comes to things like that. At least, that's the impression I always got. I mean, you and Todd never slept together did you?

Absolutely not,! Elizabeth scoffed in revulsion. Todd and I never had sex, she insisted. In fact, he dumped me in college when I wouldn't sleep with him. He actually did me a huge favor, she said thoughtfully.

Well, that's a relief, Alice sighed. It would have been worse if you did. This whole thing with Jessica I mean.

Well, I don't want to talk about it, Elizabeth moaned, shaking her head.

This is so embarrassing, she thought, talking to her mother about sex. And she wasn't even having it!

And I already got the talk from Enid.

Well, I'm glad you have someone talking some sense into you. Although, I wish I was a bigger part of your life. I don't like the feeling that none of my children need me anymore. You're so far away from all of us. I'm not trying to butt into your business. I know you're no longer a child, but I worry. You've always been so, so cautious about everything. And also so earnest, so intense about relationships. Remember how you were with Todd? You were sixteen and acting like an old married couple.

I know Mom, I know. You always warned me that I was way too young to be so serious. I should have listened, Elizabeth said, reflecting on the past. And I do need you Mom. I'm making a life for myself in New York.

It's challenging, but I've always loved a challenge. I don't want you and Dad to worry about me. I promise to call more often. And one of those days, the two of you can visit me there. I would love to show you Manhattan. You'll love all the buildings and art galleries.

I would love for us to do something today, Alice said. Anything you want. How about you, me and your Dad go somewhere? We can go to the Christmas village, just like we used to when you were younger. Unless you think you're too old and grown up for it?

The Christmas village was an annual Sweet Valley tradition, which included a beautiful presentation of festive lights, a forest filled with hundreds of dazzling trees, an enchanted carousel, a magical train ride with Santa's elves, nightly entertainment, and numerous holiday treats. It was sponsored by various businesses and corporations throughout Sweet Valley, and the proceeds from the entrance fees went towards various charitable organizations. The Wakefields usually made their way there every year, enjoying the joyous ambiance and delicious food on display.

Ummmm. I would like to but…..

Elizabeth, you came all the way out here. Please tell me you have time to spend with us.

I would love that Mom. The Christmas village sounds wonderful, and no, I'll never outgrow that, she smiled. But I have just one thing to do first.

Alice gave her a glance of reproach.

Really Mom, I promise. We can go later today, and then go to dinner somewhere? Maybe Steven, Cara and Nathan can come too?

Sounds like a plan then, Alice said happily, as Elizabeth got up to get ready. What do you have to do anyway?

I have to go to see Devon's lawyer.

Oh yes, Alice said. I'd forgotten about that.

He left me a lot of money Mom.

Really? Money? I had no idea.

I contacted the lawyer and he told me the amount. It's a little over eight million dollars.

You're kidding, Alice gasped. He left you all that money? Liz, why didn't you say anything? When the lawyer dropped that letter off, I had no idea. I mean, what are you going to do?

I've only really talked to Nicholas about it, Elizabeth said guiltily. And I told Enid yesterday.

Nicholas again. Alice sighed. It's almost like he's replaced us.

Mom, don't say that. I needed someone to talk to about it, to help me with my decision, and he was there.

And what decision did you make?

I decided that I'm not going to take it. I plan on signing it over to Devon's relatives. I can't keep his money Mom. I know he wanted me to have it, but I would never feel like it was really mine, you know what I mean? If he was completely alone, if I knew for a fact that he had no family anywhere, then maybe I would keep it for myself, keep it for you, for Dad, for all of us. But I can't. And his uncle…

What about his uncle?

His uncle lives in Vegas somewhere. He's quite a character, from what Devon told me. A bit of a shyster.

A crook you mean?

Yes, exactly. I don't ever want to be in the position where he could possibly find out that I have that money and come after me, you know? Or send one of his goons, if he has any. I've watched the Godfather one too many times to know that I don't need that kind of trouble.

I understand Liz. I would have been very happy for you if you kept it. But I'm proud of you that you decided to look beyond yourself and really think this thing through. I would have probably done the same thing. So what did Nicholas say, when you discussed it?

He agreed with me. You know, it seems such a huge sum to people like us. But to the Morrows, to his family, well, it's practically pocket change for them. There are so many millionaires, living over on the east coast. Sometimes I get intimidated, seeing the lifestyle that some of these people live. Not Nicholas I mean. I mean, he's pretty modest about everything. He lives in a tiny apartment, and is trying to make it on his own.

Really? Alice looked doubtful.

Yes Mom, his apartment measures just twenty five feet long, by twelve feet wide. I mean you can barely fit a bed in there. He has a twin bed, just like mine, she giggled. And his mattress is so uncomfortable.

You spend a lot of time there? Alice queried. And how do you know so much about his bed? she teased. Are you sure there's nothing to tell me?

Mom, I told you we haven't done that yet, Elizabeth insisted, her face reddening again. She rinsed her bowl and spoon in the sink and placed them in the dishwasher. So are you going to work today?

Just for a few hours, Alice said. I'm designing a new set of condos downtown. They're not high end, more of a middle income project. I'll be back here early enough, so make sure you don't stay out too late. I'll ask your brother if he and Cara can go with us.

Sounds good Mom. Elizabeth turned around and gave her mother a kiss on the cheek. I have to go get ready, she said, as she made her way out of the kitchen.

Later Mom, she said, as Alice watched her blonde hair swinging while she went up the stairs.