Nooooo, Elizabeth moaned sulkily as she grabbed Nicholas' silk tie from his hand and wrapped it around his waist, pulling him towards her. She eyed the clock above the television and saw that it was just after nine in the morning.
I don't want you to go, she squeezed him close to her, planting her bare feet stubbornly on the woven wool carpet in his bedroom.
I don't want to go either, Nicholas whispered in her ear, cupping her chin with one hand, the other moving down her neck. He tilted her face to his, loving the clearness of her eyes and the extra rosiness of her cheeks, courtesy of the warm weather that they had flown into when they touched down at Sweet Valley's airport the night before. I'll make it up to you later, I promise, he said, biting her lower lip that was on the verge of turning into a full blown pout. Elizabeth started giggling at the sensation, giving him another hug as he reclaimed the tie and started arranging it around his neck.
I guess it doesn't matter, Elizabeth released him and sighed, folding her arms, her eyes thoughtful. I'm supposed to go to the mall with Enid sometime this morning. And your mother wants me to help with the Christmas Eve party for the disabled children's center. But my Mom says she wants me to stop by later.
Elizabeth groaned, thinking of all she had to do. What she really wanted, was to get back in bed, especially with Nicholas in it. But Alice had called last night, not more than five minutes after they arrived and stepped onto the Morrow's massive estate, trying to cajole Elizabeth to spend the next days' afternoon with her. From the airport, Elizabeth, Nicholas and his parents were driven up the winding Valley Crest Drive and through the Morrows' scrolled iron gates onto their grand avenue of cypress trees, decorated with giant sparkling red and white candy canes.
The front of home was even more impressive, with a series of enormous wreaths surrounding the columns at the center, and mesmerizing lit snowflakes above the numerous windows. Two handsome nutcracker soldiers, both nearly eight feet greeted them at the mahogany front doors. Elizabeth had stepped out of the car, captivated by the beauty of the illuminated marble white fountains.
The shimmering water cast a glow on the emerald lawn, transforming it into a magical grazing spot for nine dazzling topiary reindeer, Rudolph easily spotted with his red nose. After a warm welcome from the fleet of domestic staff, she had taken to venturing throughout the large house, Nicholas by her side as he became reacquainted with his old home. Despite its impressive size and expensive furnishings, there was an element of comfort and homeliness, and not the overly stuffy grandeur that was all too common in similar sized properties.
Elizabeth had woken up early in the morning, her body set to east coast time, and the result was exhaustion that she blamed on jet lag. But she knew that wasn't it. The past few weeks at work preparing for the Christmas season seemed to take up all of her time and had sapped the energy out of her. Nicholas' long hours at his office kept him busy, and she longed for a repetition of the early November days in Switzerland, where they had nothing to worry about except what to order for breakfast or what famous castle to tour.
I just want us to spend more time together, she said, moving towards Nicholas and straightening his tie.
We will, Nicholas frowned as he ran both hands through her hair. I should have known Dad was up to something when he told me we were going to the marina to look at the newest model of the Bering Sea catamaran. I thought it was an innocent day on the water until he announced at the last moment that some Japanese associates were joining us, and then dictated what I should wear. My father is conniving when he wants to be. It's no coincidence that he had one of my old suits steamed and ironed, and hanging right where I can see it. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror, and straightened his jacket. All this fabric should be banned on days like this. What is it? Eighty? Eighty-five? All I know is that it's too hot for December.
Let's go swimming later,? Elizabeth suggested, as she walked towards the large bay window, looking towards the back of the property that faced the town. Her eyes focused on the ocean in the distance and then on the large Roman tiled swimming pool, its shimmering water inviting her to dive in. It's so warm, maybe we can use the big pool outside?
Is clothing optional? Nicholas raised his brow, admiring her lithe figure, clad only in a navy sleeveless rowing team shirt embellished with his old school's yellow crest, that Elizabeth had claimed as her own while exploring his chest of drawers.
Nicholas! Elizabeth laughed. What if your parents see us? Or one of the servants! There's so many of them, I've lost count of how many.
Nicholas' emerald eyes twinkled mischievously. Five, six? He shrugged casually. They don't care as long as they get their Christmas feast.
Feast?
Yes, feast, he smiled. Lots of gifts and food. You see the big tree in the foyer?
Which one? Elizabeth asked, picturing the grand entrance of the Morrows' home with it's fabulous display of Christmas decorations.
The biggest one, Nicholas replied.
The tall one with all the presents?
Yes, Nicholas confirmed. That one is all theirs. The smaller one in the parlor is ours, and in case you didn't notice, it's pretty sparse underneath…... Speaking of which, he went to his desk and opened his wallet, pulling out a credit card and placed it in her hand, along with a kiss on her forehead.
Ohhh,? And what am I to do with this? Elizabeth teased.
I want you to be Santa's helper, he explained, planting another soft kiss, this time on her cheek. He smiled, all in an attempt to butter her up. Mom put me in charge, so now, I'm putting you in charge. Anything you want for you, Nicholas winked, and everything you see that any of the staff might like. It doesn't have to be fancy, and maybe you can buy at least twenty gifts.
Twenty? Elizabeth raised her brow.
Yes, Nicholas replied. Just cheerful, festive items that anyone would like. Have them all wrapped and delivered and then we can place them under the tree.
Elizabeth eyed him saucily. Is the gift for me a bribe? To play your elf? To take on your assigned tasks?
Yes, Nicholas chuckled.
He watched as Elizabeth walked to the bed, picked up a rubber band from the side table, and put her hair into a loose ponytail.
Has it always been this way,? she said, turning to face him.
Yes, it's kind of a tradition with us. Children and servants get the majority of gifts under the tree. By the time Regina and I were tweens, we stopped asking for toys. My parents made sure that we were given fun experiences instead of physical gifts that we'd forget about within a month. We'd usually take a trip somewhere. Dad would fly us off to Europe at the spur of the moment. Or to the Caribbean, or Hawaii if we wanted somewhere warm. So we let the servants have all the fun. It's kind of a free for all with them opening all the boxes. And then we give them their checks, their food, and send them on their merry way. On Christmas day, we usually have caterers, so our regular staff can rest. That's if we're home. His eyes grew reflective. The last trip the four of us took together was to Bermuda. Dad surprised us the day after Christmas, with the tackiest dollar store Bermuda shorts wrapped up in boxes, and announced that we were going there. It rained the entire time, but we didn't care. We still managed to have fun.
Elizabeth smiled, loving the warm look in his eyes whenever he reminisced about his childhood.
Alright, you've convinced me, she said as she moved towards him, pulling him in closer for a hug.
Later then?
Nicholas nodded. I love you, he whispered, nibbling on her earlobe. A sudden scratching sound on the bedroom door startled them. Nicholas eyed her knowingly, his eyes full of amusement.
Sounds like our child needs some attention. He opened the door, and Vixen rushed in, her bushy tail wagging with excitement. She made her way straight to the bed in the center of the room and jumped up, her creamy gold fur flying.
What's is she chewing on? Elizabeth said, looking in horror as her eager jaws chomped down, a look of satisfaction on her face. After prying the soggy item from her mouth, they concluded that it was the tongue of her father in law's leather slippers. Elizabeth put her hands on her hips and gave her pet a stern look, causing the dog to cover her eyes, as if in shame. Elizabeth shook her head. Looks like I'll have another gift to add to the list…...
Two hours later, Elizabeth left Vixen in the hands of all her new servant friends and had Soames, Skye's chauffeur, drive her down the hill to Enid's home. She had first intended on walking down the curving road, but needed help with carrying some precious cargo, in the form of a huge dollhouse that she had bought for Enid's daughter Alexandra. The elegant car descended past the Patman's home and further down the hill to where they neared Fowler Crest.
Elizabeth looked around anxiously, thinking of Jessica. Scenarios entered her head, of what it would be like to see her again. Would she want to hug her or slap her? Should she instruct Soames to mow her sister down with the Bentley? Would they even talk? How would she find the words? She was so distracted by her thoughts that she didn't see the very inquisitive redhead who immediately recognized her, and, after failing to gain her attention with her frantic waving, went straight to her phone to broadcast to everyone that she was in town.
But Caroline didn't end it there. A mere announcement of the new Mrs Morrow's arrival was not worthy of the energy it took to lift the receiver. By the time she was done putting her new majestic mauve eye shadow on, word had spread that Elizabeth had ignored her completely and had perhaps become too big for the likes of her former friends…..
After hiding the gift and chatting with Enid's mother, the two friends made their way to the Valley Mall, and as they drove along the coast, Elizabeth's eyes were wide open, memories flooding her mind from the much loved sights of her home town and her former life. After several minutes of driving, they parked and entered the doors of the west wing and straight to the bridal shop where for the next hour, a trio of seamstresses nipped, tucked, pinned and cut whatever was necessary to ensure a perfect fit of Elizabeth's dress.
Enid, I love it, she said to her friend as she turned around in the mirror, getting an eyeful of the back of the flowing fabric. You made a great choice. And the color's perfect, she added, as she stared at the reflection of an overabundant rack of bright magenta frocks, and other hideous colors that would overwhelm her skin tone. As far as bridal dresses went, this one was certainly one of the prettier ones. It was a lightweight silk sleeveless Grecian style gown highlighted with tiny silver accents along the waist and shoulder straps, the pale mint color bringing out the green in her eyes. Half an hour later they left the boutique, promising to come back for the dress, and found themselves at Casey's Ice cream parlor, menus in their hands. Elizabeth ordered a double hot fudge sundae while Enid settled on the days' special, the raspberries and cream extravaganza.
I don't know what's wrong with me, Elizabeth said, a sudden feeling of queasiness at the pit of her stomach. She pushed the bowl away, after eating just three spoonfuls. I used to be able to eat this and still have room. She pushed the uneaten scoops toward Enid who raised her spoon in appreciation.
Don't tell my Mom or grandmother, Enid smirked. They've banned me from eating sweets. I've gained enough weight as it is, she sighed. I'm bigger with this pregnancy. I chose the high waist to hide my belly, but I have gotten so much bigger since I first decided on my dress.
You'll look fine, Elizabeth insisted. More than fine. Wonderful, she smiled. The pregnancy glow had definitely touched her best friend. Her green eyes shone with happiness, and her curly hair looked thicker than usual.
It's going to be so obvious tomorrow. All the relatives who haven't seen me in a while…My grandmother disapproves, of me getting married while pregnant, Enid added, frowning. She can't even bring herself to say the word!
How is she,? by the way, Elizabeth said cautiously, remembering the old woman who years ago had temporarily moved in with the Rollins' and did her best at making both mother and daughter miserable.
Enid shook her head, rolling her eyes. Don't even ask. She flew here from Chicago two weeks ago. She doesn't approve of Mom's boyfriend Richard…..remember him?
Elizabeth nodded.
Well, he sleeps over sometimes, and because of that, she's staying at a hotel instead of with my mother, Enid continued. And she doesn't approve of me and Ray living together either. But, she comes by the house often enough, mostly to put a damper on all our plans. She's probably there now, driving Mom nuts. When Mom comes early in the morning, she usually isn't awake yet. So she makes my mother drive back to the valley and to the hotel to pick her up. I took this week off before the wedding so I could prepare. But that means I am stuck with her when Mom goes to work in the afternoon. When I should be relaxing and making the most of the greatest time in my life.
Elizabeth nodded sympathetically, remembering how the elderly woman had caused chaos in the Rollins' household after moving in temporarily with them. Both of their social lives had suffered because of the older woman's passive aggressive tactics.
And worst of all…Enid went on, well…..she hasn't said it, but I know she doesn't want my father there.
He's really coming? Elizabeth queried, not wanting to sound doubtful.
He promised, Enid replied, her eyes full of hope. I spoke to him just last night. My grandmother mutters something under her breath every time he calls or his name comes up…..
They chatted on for half an hour and then left the parlor, roaming the rest of the mall. To Enid it felt just like before, like Elizabeth had never left, and she couldn't help but notice the attention that her best friend was on the receiving end of. It was just like old times, her pretty friend with her golden hair and slender figure never failed to capture admiring glances. Enid smiled to herself, remembering her past insecurities. But she had come into her own and no longer felt the the bud of jealousy that used to sprout in her heart whenever she felt like she was in Elizabeth's shadow.
What is it,? Elizabeth asked, noticing the thoughtful expression on her face.
I just remembered what it's like, walking around with you.
Hmmm? Elizabeth said, distracted as they neared Foxy Mama, one of Jessica's favorite stores. They passed by and Elizabeth glanced at the window displays. Some of the outfits would make a stripper blush! As they entered the east wing, Elizabeth marveled at the decor, remembering the renovations and the expansion that her mother had a hand in years before. She looked proudly at the domed skylights and series of small Cuban tiled fountains, knowing that a lot of the work was Alice's innovative designs.
I need to go in there, Enid said suddenly, motioning with her chin towards the malls' branch of the massage parlor she worked at. Just need to finalize things before we go on our honeymoon, she added, before they stopped in front of Tender Hands Spa.
OK, meet me at the book store, Elizabeth replied, as she spotted what used to be one of her favorite places. She walked away from Enid and into the store, traipsing through the wooden aisles with their familiar scent of fresh paper. Her face lit up at the sight of some familiar faces, the friendly staff she remembered, the old nook where she would sit and read quietly. The store's manager had allowed it, because she'd always end up making a purchase, and she was unlike the unruly kids who would go through the comics and tabloid sections leaving a mess in their wake.
A fresh wave of nostalgia hit her as she moved along the classics, romances, mysteries, the young adult section, where she had spent so much time and much of her allowance. After looking through the holiday's best sellers section, she found herself in front of the periodical racks, where her very image greeted her on the cover of Net Dreams. Yet, it wasn't her. It was Jessica, the ever present glint of sassy intrigue in her aqua eyes.
"Jessica Wilkins' Holiday Cheer!" read the headline. The bottom of the glossy paper promised an insider's view of "What the Hottest Basketball Wife is Wearing Next Season"… "And How she Supports her Man"…..
Elizabeth stood transfixed, her mind warring with itself, her emotions fluid and coursing in all directions. Mesmerized, her hand inched towards the magazine, her curiosity getting the better of her.
Is that you,? a voice startled her from behind, breaking the spell. Mrs Todd Wilkins? Elizabeth turned around to face the shaggy brows and hooded grey eyes of an elderly man ogling at her from behind his thick glasses. You're even more beautiful in person.
No! Elizabeth almost shouted, caught off guard. She forced back a scowl. Lighten up Elizabeth,! she scolded herself at seeing his expression. It was an innocent question from a harmless old man.
Not at all, she softened her tone, seeing that he was taken aback by her response. I'm not Mrs Todd Wilkins, she said, her voice more gentle.
Are you sure? He peered closely at her, adjusting his wired frames. Well, you're just as pretty as she is, he went on, obviously not believing her denial. If only I was ten years younger, he winked suggestively, causing her irritation to evaporate. Todd Wilkins would have some competition.
Oh believe me, there is no competition, Elizabeth smiled sweetly at him. I bet you're twice the man that Todd is, she winked flirtatiously in return, as she waved and walked away.
At the moment, Enid entered the store, and they made their way to Lytton and Brown, where the Christmas shopping awaited…. After choosing several handfuls from the store's most requested gifts section, Elizabeth selected various rolls of gift wrap and gave the clerks delivery instructions. As she moved along, her Christmas spirit came alive, her encounter with Jessica's face, although a mere image, was forgotten. She and Enid roamed through the womns' designer section, and while Enid bemoaned not being able to wear any of the eye catching holiday frocks, she spotted an apple green skirt, made with the softest, shiniest charmeuse. Elizabeth glanced at the price tag and thought it was a bit steep, but, as she ran her hand along the irresistible coolness of the silk fabric, she decided to indulge herself. A new pair of leather slippers for her father in law and a set of silly, humorous, holiday sweaters completed her shopping for the day…..
I hate this,! Jessica fumed, as she slammed down the phone. The receiver dropped from the cradle and she picked it up, slamming it again, keeping her hand on it this time. After five seconds of silence, it started ringing, along with the several others within the lofted warehouse's walls.
Jessica gave it an evil look and flipped her hair behind her ear. Usually, she loved the phone. Chatting on the phone had always been one of her favorite pastimes. She had been on hold for almost ten minutes, trying to confirm if Yohanna Baynes, one of LA's most conceited and notorious models had gotten out of bed and was on her way.
At over six feet with bulging blue eyes, and a pointy beak of a nose, Jessica thought she resembled an emu, but the photographers loved her rail thin frame and never ending legs. Yohanna was overly demanding with a rotten attitude, but since being discovered at thirteen, she had everyone convinced that she was the greatest gift to the fashion industry.
Grace Fowler had insisted on having her walk the runway for her Christmas show, and it was Jessica's job to make it happen. Which is what she had been doing all morning. Or…. trying to anyway. Her lovely face turned into a frown. I need my own assistant. No, what I really need is a new job! Good thing I already have one lined up, she smiled to herself. Soon I won't be doing this...
Jessica reminisced about when she first started working for Lila's mother. She had been caught up with the glamour, the parties, the lifestyle. Those she still enjoyed, but the background work that necessitated the support of the industry was wearing on her nerves. And on her time. Time was precious. Especially when you were destined to become a big star on a nighttime soap!
Jessica smirked inwardly, her blue green eyes dreamy. She used to thrive on the flurry of activity and the fast pace of planning fashion shows. But now it all seemed a blur of boredom. Selecting accessories, setting up meetings with production staff, looking at sketches, contacting the textile mills to see if they could up production, and worst of all, making sure the models got their lazy, entitled egos on the catwalk,…. she had had enough!
The models were the only ones who were having fun! She looked around the room, half naked young women everywhere, seamstresses surrounding them with pins, needles and measuring tape. Makeup artists ran around chasing them, colors and brushes in hand, powders and polish spilling on temporary counter tops. It was a huge production, and all the participants had one thing in common. And that was the intention to increase Jessica's wretched workload!
She spotted Yasmine Hawkes, who made last weeks cover of Tout Bagay magazine getting her hair curled. Jessica glanced at the calender above her head. December twentieth. Five days before Christmas and she hadn't even finished her shopping yet.
Although, Jessica sighed, the sales at Bibi's and Lisettes were less than thrilling.
She just couldn't muster her usual enthusiasm for hitting the mall. She had been moodier than usual in the past few days, preoccupied with thoughts of Enid's wedding. As of yesterday, she knew Elizabeth was in town, and less than a mile away from her, living it up in the Morrow's mansion and refusing to acknowledge her existence. She had by chance spotted her yesterday in the early afternoon, out by Enid's pool, and from a distance Jessica had made her out, her gold hair glinting in the sun, the shade could be no one else's. Except her own.
With her heart beating fiercely, Jessica had raised herself up in her lounge chair , unable to stop staring, until a small child came and pulled her sister inside.
She's doing it on purpose! Jessica had fumed. Deliberately going outside, knowing that I live next door! And then not having the decency to stop by and apologize and beg my forgiveness! Well, I'll ignore her too! I don't care what Mom says! She envisioned Alice, who had been subtly hinting at a truce all month, and Jessica knew her mother was up to something...
The phone rang suddenly, interrupting her thoughts. Jessica picked it up and slammed it down again. Whoever it was would have to try another line. She grabbed the receiver and her fingers moved to the dial, where she punched in the number for Yohanna's agent. She rolled her eyes at the tenth ring, deciding to give up at the fifteenth.
No, I won't be staying, I have a wedding in Sweet Valley, a passing voice announced. Jessica's ears perked up at the conversation. A mousy looking blonde woman with the most annoying nasally tone, and too many rings on her fingers was chatting with Delores, one of the display assistants. He's a cosmetic surgeon. He did a little work on me, and let's just say, the man is a genius.
Seriously Myra? I didn't know you had anything done, Delores answered.
Well, that's just the whole point isn't it? He's one of the best plastic surgeons on the west coast.
At her words, Jessica took closer notice, putting two and two together.
Is everyone going to that stupid wedding except me,? she huffed in irritation. Even Amy had gotten on the guest list, and only because Enid had invited Ken Matthews.
I met him in Vegas at a conference earlier this year, and promised to do his fiancees hair, Myra continued. She looked at the clock on the wall. How much of a drive is it? I've been to Palisades, but not Sweet Valley. I'm a little nervous about beating the traffic. I want to be there around eleven.
Not that far, about an hour south of here. If you leave now, you'll get there in plenty of time, Delores assured her.
At the corner of her eye, Jessica spotted Stuart, Grace's geeky right hand man approaching her direction. She was in no mood for his presence or his predictable annoying questions about the schedule. Or anything else for that matter. She got up from her desk and moved towards the back of the of the cubicle and out the door to the hallway. Motor mouth Myra was on the end of a short line for the ladies' room, but it didn't seem to matter with the way she squirmed, moving up and down, obviously in discomfort as a flurry of bodies moved back and forth. Jessica walked close to her, and smiled, her face laced with saccharine.
Why don't you just use the one upstairs,? she suggested, her voice low.
There's more upstairs? Myra queried, her voice hopeful. She frowned at the two women ahead of her. I have to go so bad. Why did I have all that soda. Where exactly?
Oh, it's on the fifth floor. Jessica motioned with her chin. Just take the elevator up and go to the right. It's the second door down the hallway. A lot nicer and cleaner than this one.
Thanks so much, you're a life saver…uhhhhh?…
Jennifer, Jessica smiled, answering her intended question.
Thanks so much Jennifer! Myra gushed, as she practically ran, her voice relieved.
She watched with satisfaction as Myra scurried along and into the open elevator, her bladder obviously tormenting her. She bit her lip and walked towards the stage area in the front, hoping the crew were ready with the final design for the lighting sequence.
Jessica grinned, smug at her good deed for the day. She had indeed, sent Myra to the nicest bathroom.
It's just too bad the door gets stuck and the buildings' superintendent hasn't had a chance to fix it yet…...
