Click on my profile to see homes.

To my reader with the questions. The idea of Lila not being George's daughter did not come from me. I remember reading either the front or the back of one of my SVH books, and seeing a short write up on Lila. It clearly said that her mother was already pregnant when she met and married George. I was a preteen when I was reading these books, and I always found the concept very interesting, but they never went anywhere with the story in the later books. The reason why I even got back into those books is because someone gave me a kindle unlimited, and most of them are on there. So I have read them again pretty recently. As cheesy and silly as they mostly are, they brought back great memories.


Elizabeth had been at Mr Regis' office for fifteen minutes now. The first thing he did after greeting her and examining her driver's license was hand her some sheets of paper loaded with chemistry questions. The whole thing was perplexing. But then she remembered Devon's last written words to her. The things he stressed that she remember. It all made sense to her.

Perfect, Mr Regis said, after reading through her answers.

I don't understand any of these questions myself, the sciences were never my strong point. You answered everything correctly, including some very personal questions and you've proven your identity to me. Mr Whitelaw was very adamant that I make one hundred percent sure that you are indeed, Elizabeth Wakefield.

This really is an unusual case. Devon informed me about your twin sister and her potential attempt to steal your identity and claim the money for herself. And he was right. I did have another Elizabeth Wakefield in here a few months ago. I gave her the same test that I just gave you, and she failed miserably.

I also gave you some completely different questions, and you obviously know everything there is to know.

Are you saying, my sister was here,? Elizabeth asked incredulously. The blood rushed to her face.

Yes, I assume she was your sister. She looked exactly as you do now, I would never be able to tell the two of you apart, since I don't know you personally enough to do so. She had a passport as identification.

My passport! Elizabeth thought to herself. I'm going to wring her neck!

Mr Whitelaw devised this plan to make sure that your sister would not benefit from his inheritance, Mr Regis explained. I'm not sure what the story is between the three of you, and it really is of no interest to me either way.

It is my job to make sure the funds go to the right person, and I am satisfied that is you. The reason why I contacted you by writing to your local address is because I didn't have your correct address in New York City. Can you confirm it for me please?

Yes, Elizabeth said, and told him the correct information.

Ah, I see, he said. Devon left me the new address and phone number via message, however, it was a bad connection and sounded so muffled that I didn't want to chance it. I didn't speak to him, but from his voice on the message, I could tell he was distraught.

Tears came to Elizabeth's eyes.

I know now that was the night before he died, Mr Regis continued. It's so sad, he said, shaking his head. I then wrote you at the Calico Drive home. The other Elizabeth called me and I gave her the same information over the phone as I gave you.

Devon actually warned me about this, so I was on high alert during my interactions with her. When I saw that she knew nothing of the questions I handed to her, my suspicions were aroused and I realized that she probably wasn't the Elizabeth Wakefield that I was looking for.

So I wrote another letter, and this time, I personally delivered it to your home where your mother assured me that she would give it to you and you only. I don't know how your sister thought she would be able to get away with this deception. Your father, Ned Wakefield, is a prominent lawyer in this town. I have never met him, but I know his reputation.

As an officer of the court, I know he would never stand for any fraud or misrepresentation, especially in a case like this. It was always my intention to contact him about this matter, and if anyone should know the difference between his two daughters, it would be their father.

Elizabeth took a deep breath. My sister usually doesn't think things through. She probably thought you would hand her the check right then and there, and that she'd be able to open a new bank account in my name and deposit the money. I really appreciate your efforts at confirming my identity, and I'm grateful for Devon's thoughtfulness...

But I can't keep that money, she said. I'm aware that Devon had an aunt and uncle somewhere in Ohio. I believe they had two children, both boys from what I recall. He also told me about his uncle who lives in Las Vegas. What he told me about both parties wasn't very flattering, however, I cannot accept the responsibility of this sum of money when I know he has relatives out there. If it really is mine to do as I please, then I would prefer for it to be given to his aunt and uncle in Ohio.

Mr Regis looked at her in surprise. You're sure? You fully realize what you're giving up?

Elizabeth nodded. I'm one thousand percent sure. I'm fully aware of what I am giving up, and most people would think me insane to throw this money away, my sister especially. However, I have gone through this over and over for months now, ever since I found out there was a possibility of a large sum being left to me.

I always come to the same decision every time I've pondered the situation. I have to give it up. I would appreciate it very much if you would contact his aunt and uncle and give them the money instead. From what Devon told me about them, I think they'll be thrilled.

Mr Regis widened his eyes, obviously taken aback. Well, I must say I'm astounded. Most people I know would jump at a chance for an opportunity like this one.

I know, and I am very grateful. But my conscience won't be clear if I accept any of it. Not to mention, Devon's other uncle, well, he seemed to be a rather unsavory character, that's the impression that I got. I don't want him to think that I'm here in possession of money that belonged to his nephew.

I understand Miss Wakefield. I do have the address of his relatives in Ohio. I will contact the family as soon as possible. I haven't spoken to them yet, but I'm pretty sure you'll make their day, make their night, heck, possibly make their whole year.

Elizabeth laughed.You mean next year,? she said.

Yes you're right. What a happy new year they're going to have once I give them the news.

So what happens now? Elizabeth looked up curiously.

I'll draft up the papers immediately and you can sign everything away. After that, well, you'll never have to hear about it again.

And my mind will be clear, Elizabeth said. It's very hard to walk away from all of this, but I know that this is the right thing to do. Did you know him? Did you know Devon very well?

Not too well, Mr Regis said, as he adjusted his glasses. I knew he was an intelligent young man, a bit of a recluse. It's sad how he died so young. Life can be so unfair sometimes, he said, shaking his head.

Well, Elizabeth, how about you come by tomorrow and I'll have the papers ready for you to sign. Do you have big New Year's plans? Are you staying here? In Sweet Valley?

Actually, I'm going back to New York. And yes, I do have plans. I fly back on the thirtieth.

Going to Times Square to see the ball drop?

No, nothing like that. At least I hope not. My boyfriend is surprising me when I get back home.

Boyfriend? Home? Elizabeth thought to herself. This was the first time she had ever referred to Nicholas as her boyfriend. And the first time she really thought of New York as home.

I've been to New York a few times. Frankly, I don't know how anyone can live there. It's better for young people for certain. An old man like me wouldn't be able to handle it. Too many people, too much hustle and bustle.

It's a tough city for sure, Elizabeth agreed. But I do like it, she said as he walked her out to the parking lot. Well, goodbye, Elizabeth said. I'll call you tomorrow and arrange to sign the papers.

That's perfect, he said, as he shook her hand.

She waved as she started the car and made her way across the parking lot and onto the street.

I can't believe Jessica! Elizabeth thought angrily. Oh, wait a minute. Yes I can!

This is right up her alley. Stealing my passport, so she could get the money for herself!

I should have taken the money just to spite her! She'd want to tear her hair out if I had millions to burn and she didn't.

I have a good mind to go to her house and give her a piece of my mind!

She turned off the highway and onto the exit leading to Valley Crest Drive, in the section where Jessica and Todd lived. She made her way up the winding road and stopped at what she knew was her sister's house. Alice had described it so well to her, there was no doubt that this was Jessica's home. It was the only one on the road where you could see so much of the inside.

It was a beautiful glass dominated building, quite large, with three levels, very modern, just the thing Jessica would love. The large windows were an exhibitionist's dream, and everyone who knew Jessica knew how she loved to show off. Elizabeth stared through the glass. From this distance, she could clearly see the interior.

She saw a movement from within the home. It was a dark haired woman holding what looked to be a baby. Elizabeth stared as she gently rocked the child back and forth.

That must be Jake, Elizabeth said aloud. Elizabeth was momentarily stunned. She knew that the baby existed, but it all became very real to her, to see her new nephew in person, even though it was from several feet away.

She continued up the hill, her ire fading.

I'm not going to give her the satisfaction of being angry with her. She didn't get the money. Nor will she get any of my attention. I'll save my wrath for someone who is worth it!

The afternoon air was cooler the higher up she climbed. Elizabeth kept going forward, as the homes got larger and larger. She curved up the drive until she found herself in front of the gates of Fowler Crest. The large Spanish style mansion looked just as she remembered it. She and Lila had never been friends, but Elizabeth remembered being invited to frequent parties held at the elegant home.

It really was a beautiful house. Compared to what she had seen in Greenwich and eastern Long Island, Fowler Crest was almost modest in comparison. Elizabeth laughed as she drove on. She never thought she'd see the day when the word modest would ever describe anything that pertained to Lila Fowler.

She pressed on the gas and climbed up the hill. After passing several houses, she saw the the entrance to the Patman's Georgian style mansion.

I wonder what Bruce and Roger are doing these days, she thought to herself. Elizabeth moved upwards to the home next door. She smiled as she pulled up to the beginning of the long driveway that led to the Morrow estate.

Her heart started beating as she caught a glimpse of the large honey colored stone mansion that was sitting regally in the distance. Elizabeth studied the structure, and admired the handsome chimneys that towered over the roof. There were three elaborate fountains in the circular drive in front of the building, and the beautifully detailed mahogany front door stood behind three marble columns, that dominated the center of the wide expanse of the home. Seeing his home made her miss Nicholas even more. Elizabeth knew the house was empty, except for the servants.

As beautiful as the house was, it wasn't what excited her. It was the thought of Nicholas being there that got her blood warm. She had a sudden urge to go in there, run into Nicholas' room and lay in his bed. She giggled at her idea as she admired the tall trees that lined the allee leading to the grand estate.

Just three days Liz, she assured herself. You'll see him in a few days. She stopped the car right in front of the large scrolled iron gates that led to the front driveway.

Stop being a stalker Elizabeth,! she scolded herself. She sat in the car for a few minutes, enjoying the coolness of the air. It was a relief from the heat in the valley.

I can't sit here forever, she thought. Time to go home to spend time with Mom and Dad.

Elizabeth turned the car around and drove down the hill. Within fifteen minutes, she got off the exit and headed towards Calico drive. She looked in the driveway, relieved that there was no sign of Jessica's car.

She's probably still shopping the after Christmas deals, or she's somewhere recovering from all the parties she's been going to. Seeing her will ruin my time here. I want nothing to do with her.

She got out of the car and let herself in the house. The anger threatened to rise again. She stood at the doorway, hesitant to enter.

Hey Mom, she said, as she entered the kitchen.

Alice turned around at the sound of her voice. Oh Liz, you're back. I thought you'd be out longer.

Are you here alone Mom? Elizabeth asked, looking pointedly at her mother.

If you're worried about your sister, you can relax. She called me earlier to say she was going to a nightclub in LA tonight. She wants to show off one of the new dresses she bought at Lisettes. So it's just us tonight.

You, me and Dad. Your brother will be busy tonight. And Cara's with her father and brother. They flew out here just to see her. She wanted to give them some time with Nathan. Your brother has to catch up on work, Alice explained.

That's too bad, Elizabeth said. I was hoping they could come with us.

Have you figured what you want to eat tonight? Alice faced Elizabeth. We have a lot of left overs, but knowing your brother, he'll probably finish them off. And I want us to do something special.

Well, I was thinking we could go to the Cote d'Or. My treat.

Alice raised her brow. Really Liz?

Yes, since it's just the three of us, why not? We won't have a baby with us, so we can go anywhere we want.

I see someone has expensive tastes. You live in New York for a few months and this is what happens? That's a five star restaurant with ten star prices!

Mom, it will be fun, Elizabeth insisted. Let's treat our selves for once.

That place costs a lot of money…Alice grinned. But if my daughter says she'll pay… Speaking of which, her face turned serious. What happened at the lawyer's office?

I did what I said I would do. I passed it on to Devon's family. I have to go in tomorrow to sign the papers, and then I never have to worry about it again.

Elizabeth considered telling her mother about Jessica's deceit, but decided against it. The last thing she wanted to do was ruin her time with her parents by bringing up Jessica's attempts at taking the money for herself. She wanted to enjoy this night, and the next ones with them.

When does Dad get home?

In a couple of hours, Alice answered. We can go to the Christmas Village and then to dinner.

Sounds good Mom. I'll call the restaurant and make the reservations, Elizabeth said.

Now Liz, since you insist on going to this fancy place, lets go up and look for something to wear. I'll lay out something for your father. Alice started to move towards the stairs as Elizabeth grabbed the phone from the base. She turned around and grabbed hold of her daughter.

Liz, I'm so glad you're here. You've made us very happy, coming here. Her blue eyes watered.

Mom, don't you dare cry! Then you'll make me cry. If you cry, I won't let you have dessert, she chided, lightening the mood.

Alright Liz, Alice brushed a bit of moisture from her cheek. I promise, there will be no tears tonight.

Elizabeth smiled as her mother left and disappeared up the stairs. She really did love being home. But there was another life out there that she was eager to get back to. She dialed the number of the restaurant, determined to enjoy being with her parents for the short time until she had to leave. After making reservations for six thirty in the evening, she went up to her room and opened her closet. After examining the contents, she pulled out a mocha brown silk chiffon strapless dress that was accentuated with azure silk ribbon at the waist.

Elizabeth held the dress up to her body. The rich color contrasted beautifully with her blonde hair and the trim matched her eyes perfectly. The skirt was slightly flared at the waist, and ended with ruffles right at her knees. The dress was new and Elizabeth never had a chance to wear it.

I really should take this dress back to New York with me, she thought, as she ran her hand over the fabric. Maybe I'll wear it in the summer. Right now, it's perfect for this weather.

She was surprised it was still there and that Jessica hadn't stolen it yet. She must have been too busy stealing my passport to look in my closet!

Speaking of which…., she said aloud as she went to her bureau where she kept her passport.

There it was , right in it's place where she left it after leaving London. She leafed through the pages. Everything seemed normal.

The sneak!, she said, getting angry at the thought of Jessica going through her personal things. A knock disrupted her thoughts.

Liz? A voice came from the hallway.

Elizabeth opened the door to find her mother standing there with a dove grey semi formal spaghetti strapped dress in her arms. The dress was knee length, tight at the waist and flared at the hips. What do you think,? Alice asked. Is this good enough for where we're going?

It's beautiful Mom, I love the color.

You don't think it's too young for me do you?

Of course not, Mom, you'll look great in it!

I have a black bolero jacket to wear over it, in case they have the air conditioner on too high.

Elizabeth laughed. Scared of a little cold Mom? It's eighty five degrees out there! It's practically a heatwave.

I just hope you're dressing warmly over in New York. Especially with going out with wet hair.

Mom, you promised. No more reprimands!

Did I? I don't remember that. I'm not going to stop being a mother hen.

I know, Elizabeth said, now can I get into the shower? She giggled at her mother's look of disapproval. I promise to use a hair dryer when I'm done.

Fine, Alice relented. But I'm not done grilling you about your life. She turned around, heading to get herself ready. We'll talk more at dinner, she said as she made her way into her bedroom.