I am not great with descriptions so see pictures for visuals.
After tearful goodbyes and promises to call and visit more often, Elizabeth boarded the plane on the afternoon of December thirtieth, heading to a very chilly New York City. She arrived at LaGuardia airport right before eleven at night, this time without the intense anxiety she felt the last time she was at this airport. This time she knew what she was doing, had a home to go to, albeit, a small, shared one, and what directions to give to the cab driver. She pulled her small bag up the flight of stairs, walked into her apartment and called Nicholas' number.
Elizabeth, I still wish you'd let me come meet you at the airport, he said. I already picked up Aunt Eleanor's car from Greenwich. I can't wait to see you, he said huskily.
I know, Elizabeth murmured over the phone. Nicholas I missed you. I parked in front of your house when I was over there, Elizabeth told him. Am I a stalker,? she giggled.
Nicholas laughed. Yes you are. But I like it….
They talked more for a few minutes until Elizabeth hung up the phone, with a tired but happy smile on her face. She took a shower and went straight to bed. The next morning, after bathing and dressing herself with some jeans and a warm wool sweater, she stood in her room, looking into her closet.
Which one should I take with me,? she wondered aloud, looking down at the two new swimsuits she had bought at Macy's in the early summer. Nicholas had told her last night that they might go swimming. The bikini was a shimmering olive green that left little to the imagination. Elizabeth knew she looked great in it, she could thank her frequent jogging around the shaded trails of Mc Carren park for that.
She felt like she'd never been in better shape than she was right now. The lack of a car meant she had to walk much more than she ever did in Sweet Valley. But she had never been one who liked to flaunt her body, she usually did not like being gawked at.
So why did you buy it in the first place,? she asked herself as she dropped the skimpy suit on her bed.
The other suit, a halter top one piece, was aqua with red polka dots, and was reminiscent of the suits worn by classic pinup girls of the forties and fifties.
Why am I agonizing about this? Will the bikini come off as desperate? Slutty? I want him to like me for my heart, for my mind, not how I look in a swimsuit.
Well, I want him to like that too, but…
Ugggggghhh, she groaned.. Why was this so complicated?
I'll pack both then, she said aloud, placing the two suits in her traveling bag.
I wonder how cold it will be? It's almost January genius, she reminded herself. It's not like we're swimming outdoors dummy, we'll probably be in an indoor pool. Or a jacuzzi.
She was nervous. She was nervous about the next few days, about spending the night with him.
Would they or wouldn't they? She wanted to, every time they were together, she couldn't stop thinking about it. And the times when they were apart too, it was always on her mind. She had only ever had sex with one person, and was afraid that he'd think her silly for fretting about it so much.
He was older, more experienced, what if she disappointed him? He was a man, and she felt like she was still a school girl. A girl who had lost the ability to trust people, who was overly cautious about accepting sincerity from someone else. He had told her to bring a dress.
What kind of dress,? she queried.
You know Liz, was his reply. A dress.
Ugggggghhh, how am I supposed to know what kind of dress,? Elizabeth's eyes settled on a gown in her closet. It was a dark red fifties style gown that she had seen in a thrift store. Bright red was always a color that Jessica loved, while Elizabeth preferred the more subdued burgundy.
The dress had been in the store, peeking out from the back of the racks and was calling out to her. The fabric was that rich, silk taffeta that rustled when she touched it. It was sleeveless with a tight waist and a flared skirt, ending right between her knees and her ankles. She was happy that at five foot six, she was tall enough that she seldom had to have her clothes altered.
Despite the fact that she was making more money, she still lived frugally and tried to save everything she could. Thrift stores had become a godsend to her small armoire. Not that she had any space to put clothes anyway. Her clothing and her small collection of literature were already beginning to compete for real estate in her nine by ten foot bedroom. As far as Elizabeth was concerned, it was better to fatten her savings account than her wardrobe.
She looked at the swimsuits again.
I'll just have to decide which one when I get there, she said to herself, as she neatly folded the dress into her bag.
And I hope they have clothes hangers, wherever it is we're going.
She couldn't help but think of Jessica. Her sister would probably pack ten bikinis and five dresses and then choose while she was there.
Not only that, but she would usually ransack Elizabeth's neatly packed bag to see if there was anything she deemed worthy of wearing. Jessica was always so spontaneous, so impulsive.
She has always cared more about her appearance than me, Elizabeth thought.
Stop thinking about her,! she scolded herself as she glanced into the mirror.
The colder December air had made her even paler. There was a light pinkness to her cheeks. At first she liked the pale skin because she knew that it would make her look different from her twin. Jessica hated pale skin, she thought that it was just cause for kicking perpetrators off the beach if they weren't a golden brown like she was.
But looking now at her reflection, Elizabeth decided she really liked the look. Her skin seemed so much smoother, almost like it held moisture better. It was also a lot more even, one uniform color, no tan lines anywhere. This is what I am supposed to look like naturally, she thought. Not anything like her!
She decided then and there that she would never purposely tan her skin again. Not that she got much sun while living in New York anyway. From now on she vowed that she would never go without rubbing on some sunscreen, especially to protect her exposed areas. She could almost hear Jessica's voice, remarking with criticism about how white she was.
Let Jessica have her bronzed goddess look! Let her scoff at me for my faded color. I don't care. I never want to look like her again! People will look at us now and always be able to tell us apart!
She looked again at what she had packed. It's too bad Adrienne is at practice, or I'd get some advice from her. She always knows how to dress.
Elizabeth heard a knock on the door as she finished packing her toiletries. She opened it and saw Nicholas standing there, a sterling silver rose in his hand. She felt a rush when her eyes met his, it was a mixture of butterflies in her stomach and the giddy pleasure of seeing him again.
For me? She gestured at the rose, reaching to grab it as he hid it behind his back.
Well, I think Adrienne might like it, he jested, smiling broadly at her.
You're not coming in then, if that's your answer, she said in mock anger.
Well, OK, I guess you can have it, he said, hesitatingly, a cheeky grin on his face. For a kiss.
Elizabeth leaned over and kissed him on the left cheek.
I missed you, Nicolas said looking at her straight in the eyes.
I was only gone for four days, Elizabeth laughed as she pulled him into her arms. His face was cold from the outside air and she grabbed his hands, rubbing them with hers. Where's your gloves,? she asked.
It's not that cold. I can manage, he answered. She gave him another kiss, this time on his right cheek.
I missed you too, she whispered in his ear, as she felt her heart race at being so close to him. Nicholas held her tightly, inhaling the scent of her hair as he planted kisses along the fine strands.
So where are we going anyway? Elizabeth asked as Nicholas handed her the rose.
It's a surprise. You said you missed the Pacific ocean, so I'm taking you somewhere that might pass as a substitute. And if you don't love it, well, I owe you, I don't know, I'll owe you some bagels from Delmonicos, Nicholas said, referring to the gourmet bake shop where Elizabeth loved the special treats.
Elizabeth giggled, picking up the knapsack of clothes and other items that she would need for the weekend.
You mean like my cinnamon raisin ones from last week,? The ones you finished off in one setting? And I thought my brother was greedy, she teased, as he grabbed hold of her hand. Don't forget the cream cheese.
He pulled her close, smoothing her hair back from her face. It's a little over three hours to get there.
And you better not ask me "Are we're there yet?" while I'm driving.
Or you'll do what,? Elizabeth challenged, looking directly into his eyes.
Hmmmmm, I'll make you do my laundry. For a month, he grinned. If you make me listen to any horrible music, I'll put you down and make you walk. But then again, you're so pretty, I won't leave you by the side of the road in case someone tries to kidnap you.
Her gaze turned serious for a split second.
Oh Liz, I'm sorry. I can't believe I said that.
No, no, shhhhh, she said facing him as she put her thumb on his lips. It's alright. It happened so long ago. I don't even think about it anymore.
I remember that night, he recalled, his eyes appeared deep in thought, as he kissed her palm.
The night you went missing. And then, the night you had that party at your house.
Elizabeth smiled at the shared memory. I remember us dancing, and Dana Larson singing a song about me.
Yeah, I wouldn't leave you alone for a second, Nicholas continued.
And Todd, he kept giving me the dirtiest looks. I knew I never liked that guy.
Elizabeth laughed. It felt good to laugh, to hear Todd's name and not feel the deep sadness she had been experiencing the previous months. It felt good to be with Nicholas, her initial hesitancy at being in his presence was rapidly diminishing now that she knew he was the same unpretentious young man that she remembered from the first time she met him.
Sooo, Nicholas continued, as he tickled her neck with a kiss. What about the snacks,? he said, reaching for the bag.
Snacks? Elizabeth swatted his hand away. After eating all my bagels, you want snacks? Well, you can't have my cheese curls, she said, as she picked up the bag on the counter. Or my chocolate seashells. Mmmmmm, hazelnut, yummy, she waved the box in front of him.
Isn't that what I brought you from Belgium? Nicholas queried, as she pulled it away from him.
Elizabeth held the gourmet chocolate shells closer to her body. I was saving them for a special occasion.
Like right now,? Nicholas said, as he reached to open the box.
Elizabeth put her hands on her hips, a stern expression on her face. She put the box of chocolates in her bag.
We'll save them for later. And, her eyes twinkled, you can forget about my potato chips.
They're honey barbecue you know, she teased, shaking the bag at him. She opened the refrigerator and pulled out two large bottles of water. Let's see. I have MY SNACKS, and my bag is all packed. Ready,? she smiled prettily at him.
My horseless carriage awaits, Nicholas said, as he smoothed her brow.
Elizabeth put on her coat and gloves as they proceeded to the entrance. After locking the front door, they advanced down the stairs, and out into the street where the car was waiting.
Listen Nicholas, if you know what's good for you, you'll keep your hands off my, heyyyyyy, she yelled, as he grabbed the cheese curls out of the bag.
Sharing is caring Elizabeth, he laughed, as he ran to the car. He opened the crinkly bag, tossed some curls in his mouth as he opened his side of the vehicle.
Milady, he bowed as he walked around and held the door open for her.
You're just being nice because you want more cheese curls.
Well, that's not all I want, he said, winking at her as he went to the other side and buckled himself into the driver's seat.
Elizabeth blushed as he placed his hand in the bag and started munching on the contents.
Mmmmm, my fingers are all salty, he remarked as he started out of the city heading east. Elizabeth handed him a wet wipe from her purse.
Thanks! You think of everything don't you. Always prepared, Nicholas remarked, as he wiped his now orange fingers. I usually just lick them off.
Elizabeth laughed at his admission. Me too. But don't tell anyone!
I won't, he smiled.
After a half hour of driving, they reached the outskirts of Manhattan, where they took in the scenery, the fresh air, the bountiful evergreens and grasslands surrounding them.
Sometimes, I forget how close this all is. All this space and beauty, Elizabeth observed.
When I look out the window of my little room and I see the fire escape, the graffiti and the grimy streets, I dream about this paradise.
Miles and miles of greenery. No concrete anywhere, she said in awe. It's all so different to what I have gotten used to. To what I now call home. It's nice to get away. Thank you for getting me out of it, she said, kissing him on the cheek.
Hey, we're not even there yet, Nicholas stated. We'll be traveling all the way up the coast. So tell me more about things at home?
It's pretty warm. Warmer than usual. It was good to be back though. I miss my parents a lot. They wanted me to stay longer, but…. I told them I was otherwise engaged, she smiled, running her hand along his arm.
They weren't too happy that I didn't spend any holidays with them. And that I don't call them enough. The day after I arrived, I took them to the Cote D'or.
Oh?... Hmmm, I seem to remember going there a long time ago, Nicholas teased as he grinned at her. That was a pretty special night, he said reminiscing.
Did you tell them? About me? About…us?
I did, Elizabeth said, biting her lip. Then my mother started getting too personal. She makes me feel like such a child sometimes!
Personal? How? Nicholas raised his brow.
Never mind about that, Elizabeth giggled coyly. Just things that no one wants to talk to their parents about.
Ohhhhhh, I see. Nicholas said, chuckling.
So what else did you do,? he asked, as he switched lanes.
We went to the Christmas Village with Steven, Cara and Nathan.
And, I spent time with Enid. She actually picked me up from the airport. Her baby is the cutest little thing. She's so perfect, so soft and beautiful. And so loud when she wants to be.
I wanted to pack her up and take her with me. My mother and I went to church on Sunday for her dedication. And Enid made me godmother.
I haven't held a baby in such a long time.
So you drove by my house huh? Nicholas' eyes lit up in amusement. You were looking for me, even though I wasn't there?
Maybe. Elizabeth smiled lazily. I'd forgotten how big your house is. And then I thought about your parents. It's no wonder they want you to move back with them.
Yeah, I got another speech about that while they were here. The two of them are never home anyway. They're always traveling somewhere. Sometimes I think…..Nicholas' eyes grew serious.
Think what? Elizabeth said, opening the bag of chips.
That my mother wanted to have another baby, Nicholas continued. After Regina died.
She was still young enough. But she was so depressed, she turned to drinking. They never said anything, but I think she had problems with conceiving.
Really? Elizabeth said in surprise. I would never think… I mean she always seems so strong, so put together.
Yeah well, she did. She was pretty bad off. She's a lot better now, he sighed in relief.
But there was a time when, well, my Dad and I thought we would lose her too. Nicholas shook his head at the somber memories. I think about that, and I feel so guilty for moving away from them. I'll go back…. someday.
I know, Elizabeth said. I feel the same way.
You know when we first moved to Sweet Valley, neither Regina and I wanted to be in California, Nicholas stated.
I only went because I didn't want her to be alone, to have to deal with living in a whole new place all by herself. I was content to stay in Boston, or live in Greenwich with Aunt Eleanor. I arrived in Sweet Valley, prepared to hate the place.
Really? Elizabeth said, turning her eyes to him. I would never think that. You seemed so normal to me, so happy.
Of course I was happy. Nicholas placed his hand on hers. I had just met a beautiful blonde girl, and I knew things would look up, he said smiling.
It wasn't easy for any of us, he said, more seriously. I wanted to be there, to look out for my sister.
Do you need me to be navigator? Elizabeth asked, as she opened a map she found on the dashboard.
If this is a trick to get me to tell you, where we're going, it won't work. What? You don't trust me? He asked in mock horror. Are you questioning my skills with directions? I grew up in the state next to this one Miss Wakefield, and I know this road like the back of my hand! he scoffed.
I've done this drive lots of times, he went on.
Actually, we used to do this drive often when I was a kid, he told her, his expression pensive. My parents, Regina and me. The four of us. And whatever pet we had at the time. It was so much fun, although Regina and I would spend most of the time fighting. Even over the music, which she couldn't hear anyway.
Elizabeth laughed softly. And asking are we there yet? Like I'm soon about to do?
Yes, that too, Nicholas said smiling at her. She had the advantage though. She could tune me out whenever I got too annoying. And trust me, I was an annoying older brother.
Elizabeth returned his smile, loving the way his face lit up every time he spoke about his younger years. Well, I had…have one myself.
We did this drive, a couple of years ago, while my parents were up here visiting, but it just wasn't the same you know?
I know, she said softly, putting her hand on his arm. I'm just happy you decided to share it with me. Although you haven't told me where we're going yet.
You'll see. Don't even try to get it out of me.
Not even for a shell,? she asked, holding up the box of chocolates.
No, not even for that. Well maybe, he said, as she opened the box and popped one in his mouth. There are other things I want though. That might convince me to spill.
He raised his black brows at her, his eyes so green, so pure. She felt a thrill every time he teased her like this. It was a tantalizing sense of longing, of wanting to caress him, to hold him in her arms. She gazed out on the water admiring the magnificent homes along the coast.
This reminds me of the Great Gatsby, she thought out loud.
Nicholas took a quick glance at the water to the right of them. You mean Long Island sound?
Elizabeth nodded. Yes, the water and the mansions.
Well, don't let people around here hear you say that, Nicholas' voice teased.
Why? Elizabeth looked curiously at him.
The biggest egos might get jealous that the book was based in New York and not Connecticut. Based on Long Island and not somewhere in Fairfield County.
Where the sun rises and sets right,? Elizabeth smirked.
You've got it. And it shines brightest in Darien.
You know Nicholas, Elizabeth said thoughtfully, when I first moved here, I had no idea about the rivalry people from different areas have with each other.
It's only when I went to South Hampton on Long Island for one of my earliest assignments that I started hearing people insinuating their superiority to those from Manhattan, from Westchester, the Hudson Valley, all of New Jersey, and Connecticut too.
Nicholas laughed. It's the same thing further east in New England. Especially the Boston area. Even Newport in tiny Rhode Island likes to get in on the action. You'll see when I take you there.
Elizabeth smoothed a lock of hair away from his face. Newport? Or Boston?
Nicholas winked at her. Both, he promised. I'll show you the schools I went to, the house I grew up in, where I first learned to sail.
I want to take you everywhere, show you everything, he said earnestly…..
They drove along in companionable silence, listening to the festive music on the radio station. Elizabeth glanced at Nicholas at the corner of her eye, looking at how he concentrated on the road, his green eyes hidden by dark sunglasses.
She had always thought him very attractive, but being so close to him was conjuring up feelings of hunger that she hadn't felt for a long time. She imagined the way he looked when she first saw him two months ago, seated on his horse, his hand on the reins, the strong sculpted chin, the broad shoulders, those eyes…..
What are you smiling at? He asked her.
Ummm, was I smiling? I was just admiring the water, thinking of how peaceful it all looks.
Elizabeth turned her head towards the sea, hoping he wouldn't catch her with rosy cheeks. The majority of the trees were completely bare as early winter had taken over. The sun was high and bright in the clear blue sky, not a cloud in sight to mar it's perfection.
It's wonderful up here. I've never been so far east before. New England is amazing.
I love the scenery, the historic charm, the architecture, even though I know nothing about it. My mother would love this. What are those?
She gestured to a line of homes, close to the water. Cape Cod houses? Am I right?
Yep. They're most of what you see around here. One of these days I'll take you up to Maine, Nicholas promised. To see the gorgeous coastline.
Hmmmm! Elizabeth scoffed, holding up an empty bag. Who says I'll ever go anywhere with you again, after you ate all my cheese curls?
You will, I know you will. Then we'll drive south and on a grand tour of Boston... we can go visit Harvard.
I've always wanted to go there. I got in there you know, she said, her eyes thoughtful.
Nicholas raised his brows. You did?
Yes I did. I applied in high school and they accepted me.
And then I got arrested for manslaughter, she thought to herself. And gave it up for the person who destroyed my life.
There were lots of scholarships I could have applied to, but I never went through with any of it, she continued.
Well, Nicholas said, that makes me feel really dumb.
Why,? Elizabeth looked at him curiously.
Because Miss showoff, he said, nudging her lightly, I applied and got rejected.
I wasn't showing off, I swear,! she giggled.
Promise?
Yes, I promise, Elizabeth said, running her finger along his arm.
But Nicholas, you're so smart.
Well, I didn't feel so smart then. At least Yale wanted me. So did NYU.
Elizabeth ran a hand through her hair. I got into Yale too. Could you imagine what it would have been like it we were there together? I would have been a freshman by your junior year. Would you have talked to me? A lowly freshman?
Of course I would, he grinned devilishly. A cute California girl to carry my books, type my papers, and clean my room. I would have put you to good use.
Elizabeth folded her arms in mock anger. That's not what I had in mind,! she responded, her bottom lip sticking out.
You look so cute when you do that, Nicholas remarked.
Elizabeth reflected for a moment.
I'm the one who's dumb. I had the opportunity to go to the top schools in the country and I gave it up for Sweet Valley University. Not that I don't value the education I got there. But…..
Nicholas eyed her with understanding. You were thinking with your heart, you wanted to stay close to your family, close to Jessica.
Close to Todd, she finished, and look how well that turned out.
Well, we all learn from our mistakes right? He asked, holding her hand.
She nodded. You know, I almost went to school in Switzerland once. Regina, she helped me, she gave me all her brochures, she sold me on the idea. She loved it there.
We all did, Nicholas stated. It's the most awe-inspiring country. My parents would take us there on our yearly trips to Europe. I haven't been in a couple of years though.
You know, I wish I could go back, to change my mind and say yes I am going, Elizabeth continued. Who knows if I'll ever get to Switzerland now. I have more important things to do.
Like write about who's marrying who or who's diamond ring is the biggest or what kind of dog carrier some pampered pooch gets to go to Monaco in.
Nicholas laughed. You'll go. Someday. Then I can show off my skiing while I'll leave you watching on the bunny slope.
Ha! Elizabeth cried. I'll have you know that I can hold my own on the slopes.
Is that a challenge? He grinned.
Yes! She smiled and popped another chocolate shell in Nicholas' mouth. He turned off the exit and they followed the signs to Rocky Neck Beach.
The beach huh? Elizabeth said, as she read the signs high above them on the road.
Oh wow,! she exclaimed as they grew closer and closer to the shoreline. They were greeted with a beautiful vista of pristine sand delicately touched by shallow azure colored water.
Nicholas came to a stop and parked the car near the entrance. They got out of the vehicle, and walked along the powdery sand, gazing at the calm sparkling waves.
Oh Nicholas, this is amazing, Elizabeth gushed. It almost looks like the Caribbean.
I knew you would like it, he said, pulling her closer to him. White sand, calm clear water. We used to come here a lot when I was a child. There's lots of memories for me here, some of the happiest times in my life.
I never thought I would see a beach like this, not around here anyway, Elizabeth said, zipping up her coat.
I think this one is the nicest in the state, Nicholas declared.
I love it,! Elizabeth exclaimed, looking at the tiny islands and rocks in the distance.
Nicholas grabbed hold of her hand as they strolled along, watching the gentle waves lapping on the sand.
We ought to come here in summer. Go swimming, make new memories, Elizabeth suggested softly.
Does this mean you're willing to drive up here with me again? Nicholas embraced her warmly.
Elizabeth felt the heat of his body as he clung to her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed the cleft in his chin.
Hmmmmm? She smiled lazily.
Let's stay here forever, he said, running his hands through her hair.
In the cold?
I can think of ways to warm us up, he whispered in her ear while squeezing her thigh.
Elizabeth giggled. Won't we be arrested for public indecency?
Are you having naughty thoughts Liz? Nicholas grinned mockingly. I meant I would build us a fire.
A fire? Really? Elizabeth teased. A fire then, she broke free of him, casually walking away.
Actually, I think I like your idea better, he said, grabbing her into another embrace. He pressed his mouth to hers as their kisses deepened. A jolt of electricity shot through Elizabeth and she shivered.
We have to get going, Nicholas said as he ran his hands up and down Elizabeth's arms, trying to warm her. I don't want my California girl to get sick, he teased, kissing her again.
I won't, she assured him.
I want to take you on a little detour before we go to where we're going.
You mean we have to go somewhere before the main event,? Elizabeth smiled, rubbing her hands together. They walked back to the car hand in hand, listening to the cries of the gulls overhead.
Nicholas reached out to the dashboard as he started the car and turned up the heat.
Better? He asked.
Elizabeth nodded, as she enjoyed the warmth of the air vents. Are you going to tell me now? Where we're going?
No. But we're about an hour away. And then no more driving. For a while anyway.
They continued up Connecticut Route nine for forty minutes till Elizabeth paid attention to signs leading to Hartford.
A ha,! she exclaimed. We're going to the capital.
Ding ding ding, Nicholas responded, a crafty smile on his face. Think, think Tom Sawyer, he said.
I know, I know, you're taking to me the Mark Twain house,! Elizabeth said excitedly.
And the Harriet Beecher Stowe house, Nicholas added. The houses are right next to each other, he said, as they drove further into the city.
Elizabeth looked at Nicholas with appreciation. How did you know that I always wanted to go there?
I figured you'd like it, he said, leaning over to kiss her cheek.
After another ten minutes, Nicholas parked the car and they got out, walking towards Trinity Street where they passed under the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch and into Bushnell Park. Elizabeth marveled at the beautiful brownstone and terra cotta friezes that formed a gate to the entrance of the park.
The capitol building loomed ahead in the distance, it's gold leaf dome sparkled in the sunlight, mesmerizing anyone who stared at it.
It looks like a castle, Elizabeth remarked, as they took in the ornately decorated building. The happy sounds of children filled their ears, as they passed by the park's antique carousel. They moved along past the lily pond where they turned right to the direction of skating rink.
The rink was full of eager participants of all ages, and they held hands and smiled as they both remembered their own adventures on the ice the day after Christmas.
Nicholas eyed his watch. We have to go, he said as they walked back in the direction of the car. We have to see the museums first, then we can check into the hotel. You're not tired are you? He held her close to him.
No… well, maybe a little. The time change threw me off. We can rest after we see the houses, she said, kissing his lips...
