Fourth Afternoon
It was raining the next morning when Emma, John, and David finally awoke from a long slumber. The three met downstairs for breakfast, savoring each morsel of food and each other's company. After the meal, Keel excused himself claiming he had an important telephone call to make. Steed told Miss Knight that he was going to follow his comrade but that he would join her in the gaming room as soon as he could.
Emma smiled in reply, but as soon as he was out of sight, her smile turned into a small frown. Something had to be done about their relationship and she had a feeling it was not going to be an easy change to make.
Steed entered Dr. Keel's room not to find him on the phone but packing his clothes. "You're leaving so soon?"
"We finished the case except for the minor details you always work out." Keel looked up at his friend who was still befuddled. "Steed, I can't take anymore of this spy business. It just isn't my forte; doctoring is."
"I thought you found pleasure in avenging your fiancée's death," Steed replied.
"I never thoroughly enjoyed it, but I felt compelled to spy. I knew I wouldn't be content unless I helped put the criminals that had hurt Peggy and other dastardly villains behind bars." Keel's puppy dog eyes were moist with unashamed tears as he continued, "I will always miss Peggy, but I think it's time I move on. Seeing Miss Knight jarred me from my mourning and made me realise there are other people who need me. Peggy wouldn't have wanted me to continue to pine for her like this."
"I don't see what Miss Knight has to do with you and Peggy."
"Emma Knight, with her courage and intellect, reminded me of a woman other than Peggy-a woman who has stuck by me through all of my attempts to be a topnotch agent. I'm referring to my nurse, Carol, who has helped me on many cases and has consequently put her life in danger. When I saw how Miss Knight had remained so calm while men were threatening to murder her, it reminded me of Carol in similar circumstances. And it made me realise that I had started spying without asking her how she felt about working for me, how she felt knowing she could be kidnapped and killed.
"Carol Wilson has the same gumption and courage as your Miss Knight, but Carol can only give so much. I don't want to see another woman that I admire be killed! I don't think I could handle another death of a person I care so much about." David turned away from Steed as if he was ashamed of his decision. "That's why I must leave this bloody business while Carol and I are still alive. I have avenged my fiancée's death long enough; I need to no more."
John Steed cleared his throat tentatively before enquiring, "Should I stop visiting you altogether, or might I come if it is for a social or health reason?"
"You may come as frequently as you like if you promise to come as my friend or patient." Keel managed to smile despite his despondent feelings.
"You really were a great amateur agent, Keel," Mr. Steed managed to say without his voice breaking with emotions. "I am glad that I got the chance to work with you." He extended his arm for a handshake with the doctor.
"You are an excellent spy, Steed, if only you wouldn't be so ruthless when dealing with the criminals! I'm sure a lot of problems could be easily solved without you resorting to violence." At the sound of his friend's chuckling David Keel stopped his rant. He looked offended for a moment before he joined the merry laughter. "You will never change, Steed!"
"You won't change either, Keel ole boy. Steed slapped him on the back before continuing, "You will always care too much for humanity."
Dr. Keel grew serious as he asked, "What are you going to do about Miss Knight?"
Steed likewise became somber at this enquiry. "I really don't have any idea, but maybe you do?"
"I have to confess that another reason I decided to quit our partnership is because I believe that you love Emma Knight, even if you are a fool enough not to admit it. She will stay with you if you ask her and tell her the truth about your feelings. She will be your new partner in crime-fighting and do a darn good job if I do say so."
Steed shook his head in disagreement, replying, "I really don't think I love her-I can't form an attachment to anyone! Do you honestly think that a woman can take the place of you? As you said about Carol, women can only give so much."
Keel tried not to roll his eyes at this chauvinistic remark. "I said Miss Wilson can only give so much, but Miss Knight is entirely different. True, Carol is strong and brave, but Miss Knight doesn't care if she dies.
"Did you see that look in her eyes as she fought off Mr. Lanier and Mr. Henderson? She was a wildcat, releasing her emotions and getting her revenge! Emma is your counterpart," Dr. Keel paused before he added, "Carol is mine."
"But Miss Knight was placed into the middle of this crime ring without being asked just like Miss Wilson was with you!" Steed protested. "Emma befriended me, unaware that I was an agent, and fell in love with me. She knows that if she stays with me, she and I might both be killed on any given day. Can you comprehend what a vulnerable position into which I've place this strong, determined woman?" Steed leaned forward in order to stare boldly into his friend's eyes. "I can't risk her life in order to fulfill my selfish whims."
David Keel smiled in satisfaction before he announced, "You have just proven to me how very much you love Emma Knight! You'd rather she live than stay with you; I know what a sacrifice that is."
John Steed swallowed around the lump in his throat, not believing what he heard, nor believing how he felt. He was ready to admit that he had been a victim to his own trap! He was willing to say he had not only made a woman fall in love with him, but that he had fallen in love with that woman! "You finish your packing, while I find Miss Knight." Steed left abruptly, not waiting for an answer or any other accusations.
David Keel sighed, thinking of the lofty Miss Knight with her auburn hair and deep brown eyes. As he imagined the young woman, his thoughts drifted to another brunette, smaller, more delicate, but still independent. Dr. Keel heaved a sigh once again as he envisioned Carol Wilson. Her dark eyes weren't quite as big as Emma's, and she didn't have Miss Knight's stature, but she still was lovely to him. Her pale, oval head was outlined by dark tresses, which were always pulled back from her face.
He needed to call Miss Wilson and tell her he was returning to his surgery. He resolutely dialed the number and waited for his nurse and receptionist to answer it. Soon her sweet voice was speaking into the phone. "Carol, this is Dr. Keel," he paused briefly before finishing, "and I'm coming home."
"I shall see you shortly, Dr. Keel," replied the nurse. "Several of your patients needed help, so I sent them to the physician down the street, Dr. Martin King. Which reminds me: Dr. King mentioned some trouble with a crazed man who said something about 'the end of the world.' I was wondering if John Steed could have a look into it . . ."
Keel smiled as Carol continued her dialogue. He knew that Steed was about to be introduced to his next partner in crime fighting.
****************
Mr. Steed exited Keel's hotel room on his way downstairs, but the sight of Emma Knight checked him. She wore a black dress that stopped right above her kneecaps. Two thick white bands were spread across the chest, stopping before they reached the back. Emma waved gregariously at him, motioning him to follow her.
"You were supposed to be downstairs in the game room," Steed said accusatorily.
"I got anxious, so I wandered upstairs." Emma shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly, indicating that Steed shouldn't have a fit over her decision. They both entered her hotel room.
"I've often been told that redheads are impatient creatures." Steed wrapped Miss Knight in an amorous embrace and leaned forward for a kiss. Their lips touched confidently, and he was somewhat disappointed when Emma pulled away from him.
"Steed, what are we going to do about our relationship?" Emma Knight fervently asked.
"I intend to get as many kisses out of you as possible," was the mischievous reply.
Emma dodged the warm lips of her companion, saying, "No, I mean what does a person generally do when he falls in love with someone-"
"Someone who is a secret agent?" Steed concluded, his soft eyes gazing understandingly at her. "For starters, both of us have to make a sacrifice. You have to give up your job and I have to take on a woman partner knowing that the risks are greater. Of course, I can train you well, so you won't have any trouble. I always was the exceptional agent -"
"I don't see how there is any more danger when you work with a woman!" protested Emma. "And it seems to me that these sacrifices are fairly lopsided! I give up my work and begin a life of danger while you change nothing! Why don't you drop your job and become a normal human being?"
"And I suppose I should also marry you in the process?" Steed replied hotly.
"Yes, and I will continue being the chairman of the board at my corporation."
"Now you get all the advantages while I'm stuck with the rubbish!" Steed stared at Emma Knight, realising how fruitless this relationship was. "Face it, Miss Knight: we're both too obstinate to change our ways of life. I'm sorry, but this just won't work."
"Then I will return to my job and won't see you again," Emma pronounced decisively. "It was a wonderful few days, ones I'll never forget. I would have liked to work by your side, to save the world and fight crime. But I also want to be married, to love and be loved-something you evidently can't offer." Miss Knight quickly glanced away, afraid that he might see the tears in her eyes. "It's clear that you can't make a commitment of any kind. You want to have a steady woman to come home to each day while you have some fun on the sly."
"I never said anything like that!" Steed insisted.
"You don't have to; I can see it in your whole demeanor."
Steed cringed, for he knew she was right when she said he couldn't commit. The other matter, though, was completely insulting! He was a gentleman who would never fool around with fast women! Trying to find consolation in the heartrending situation, Steed remarked, "Oh well, the first rule in the ministry handbook is 'never take a spouse unless absolutely necessary.' I don't think being attracted to an accomplished woman qualifies as an absolute necessity."
"How fortunate for you that you aren't allowed to get involved with me," Emma commented bitterly. She grabbed Steed by the arm and pushed him out the door. "If you will excuse me, I'd like to be alone right now. Just as Steed was about to go to his own room, she observed, "You still won't say if you are really and truly in love me."
"Since I'm leaving, I don't find it crucial." Steed stepped over to Emma Knight in order to envelop her in another hug, but this time he was filled with comfort, not passion. "You are young and will love again, Miss Knight."
Emma squirmed out of his strong arms, not fully grasping his meaning. "Your whole intent since you first came here was to make me fall head over heels in love with you, and now you have the audacity to tell me I'll get over you?" Her fury dispelled and was replace with despondency as she added, "I will never find another you, John Steed."
With his Adam's apple bobbing in his throat and a heavy anchor weighing on his heart, John Steed became extremely uncomfortable. It was then that it hit him with such magnitude that he almost lost his breath. I love Emma! He almost shouted out loud. David Keel was right, confound the man! I want her and need her, but I've got to let her go.
But his reasons for letting her leave were rapidly disintegrating. Not one of them sounded feasible enough, not even for a reluctant dapper dandy like himself. True, Steed had had many girlfriends before, the cute women he turned to for a quiet meal and serious kissing. But never before did he have the desire to expand on the relationship and consider matrimony. Emma Knight was the only one he was willing to forfeit everything to be with.
Steed shook his head, realising that he was too set in his ways to change for anybody. He couldn't leave his job as an agent, and even if Emma wanted to help him with the cases, how could he let her when he could lose the one thing he loved the most? He was too chivalrous to just ignore all possible dangers and let her charge into the enemy's clutches. His mind and heart were divided, making it impossible to decided what road to take.
Emma witnessed this change of emotions in Steed but didn't know what to make of it. Sighing in exasperation, she shut the door in his face.
John Steed quietly and efficiently packed his suitcases then headed downstairs to the lobby. Jean, having been arrested, no longer worked there; so a new receptionist checked Mr. Steed out.
As he was heading out the door into the torrential downpour, Dr. Keel called to him, "So you are leaving as well, Steed?"
Mr. John Steed turned to face the compassionate doctor. "I broke Emma's heart, fell in love with her as well, and have no bloody clue what to do about it. I want her, but I don't want her to be killed. I can't help thinking of Peggy and how she was taken from you right before you were married."
"Why don't you compare yourself and Miss Knight to Carol and me?" suggest Keel. "We're still both here after all the spying and abductions."
"Are you trying to tell me that you and Carol have secretly been a couple?" John teased.
Keel chose to ignore the last playful accusation. "I just want my friends to be happy and successful in life."
Steed deliberated over the last sentence then declared, "I'll come visit you soon, Dr. Keel. Do you have any recommendations for a new partner for me?"
"Carol mentioned another doctor who needed your aid, so maybe he could assist you in return."
"I'll have to take a look into this matter when I get home."
"Steed," began the doctor, "what are you going to do about Miss Knight?"
"What I should have done from the very beginning: leave her alone." With that last direct answer, John Steed exited the castle. Since it was pouring outside, he asked a valet to fetch his car.
Keel knew that it would take a little longer for Steed to leave, so he ran upstairs to Miss Knight's room. He repeatedly knocked on her door until she had no choice but to open it. Emma gazed at him, dumbfounded before enquiring, "What are you doing here, Dr. Keel?"
"Steed-he's leaving," Keel panted before concluding, "and he's in love with you!"
Emma stared at him with wide but jubilant eyes. "He told you?" she whispered in utter ecstasy.
"I don't know you that well, but from what I can decipher, you and Steed were meant to be together. When you and he were together, there was something extraordinary in the air like electricity! It something's so phenomenal, I don't think anybody could explain it. You seem to be an extremely intelligent woman, but if you let Steed go, it will be the biggest mistake in your life!"
"Does this mean you no longer are his partner in crime-fighting?"
"I have my patients and my nurse who depend on me," Keel informed her.
Emma arched an eyebrow as she asked impishly, "Is this nurse looking forward to your return from Millbury Castle?"
David Keel crimsoned slightly before returning, "I sincerely hope so, but I can't be too certain or eager."
"I wish you the best of luck in your work, at the office and at home." Emma placed a light kiss on his creased forehead and dashed out of the room as quickly as a lioness on the prowl. She stormed into the lobby, never stopping, never thinking; just searching for Steed. As she ventured into the rain, she spotted him getting into his vehicle.
"Steed, wait for me!" Miss Knight shouted. She shoved a startled valet out of the way in order to reach Steed's car. Unfortunately, Steed did not hear her, or perhaps he did not wish to acknowledge her. He sped down the gravel and now muddy parking lot. Undaunted, Emma ran after him, yelling in a very uncharacteristic way.
Finally, Mr. Steed pulled off to the side of the car park and hopped out. He gazed at the drenched Miss Knight in surprise, as he demanded, "Why are you following me, Emma Knight? I thought we understood that this relationship could never work."
"You love me, and that's enough to get us through anything!" Emma cried. The heavy rain smeared her makeup and flattened her curled hair.
"No it isn't; not in this world and age." Now John's trench coat and bowler were sodden with the never ceasing rainfall.
"As you said, we both have to make sacrifices. We'll each give up a bit of our independence in order to be with each other. You can still be an agent, and I'll still be a successful entrepreneur. If you need help with a case, I will lend a hand, providing I'm not too busy."
"Actually, Keel told me of another doctor that could be my unofficial assistant."
"Then he could help you with the actual sleuthing while I did the brainwork at home!" suggested Emma Knight.
"It sounds admirable, but the ministry rules clearly specify that agents should not marry unless it's an emergency."
"Hang the regulations; I love you!" Emma swiped a piece of soaked hair from her forehead and stared directly into Steed's eyes.
Steed found himself kissing her ardently on her lips, cheeks, nose and forehead. He lightly brushed her mouth once more before he clambered into his car.
Emma stood still, utterly bemused, and then she rushed at him with all the rage of a madwoman. "You know what your problem is, Mr. John Steed? You are afraid to love because it might take something precious away from you. Whether it's your independency, free time, or your irresponsibility, I'm not certain, but I wouldn't doubt if it were all these things. I am willing to give up a little that is special to me, so why can't you do the same?" Frustrated at Steed's silence, she bellowed, "Fine, be a coward, and get out of my life!" She slammed his car door so loudly, the valet back at the castle entrance was certain it was the sound of thunder.
John Steed pulled out of the car park onto the long, winding drive that led to the highway. He cruised out of Emma's site-and her life, just as she had commanded him. Emma Knight never felt such desolation and complete despair. Steed's departure was incomparable even to both of her parent's death. She stared out into the void, wondering what she could have done to persuade Steed to stay.
Meanwhile, Steed drove through the blinding rain, meditating over the last several hours. Half of him wished he had decided differently, but the other was resolute in his choice. Then six words entered his head like a trumpet's clarion call. "I always was the exceptional agent." He had boasted that to Emma minutes ago, yet he was following the rulebook of every other spy by refusing to marry her! The words continued to drum in his brain, but still he relentlessly drove down the road away from Millbury Castle . . .
Miss Emma Knight was stationed to the ground outside the resort. She began to cry a myriad of silent tears-tears that mingled with the rainwater. The water poured from her sopping dress to the mud and gravel. She gazed into the distance as if it might pull John Steed out of his car. After countless minutes, it became evident that she had lost the most wonderful gift on earth: Love. She turned to enter the castle, but as she did, the resonance of a slamming door compelled her to whirl around.
There in the middle of the parking lot was John Steed, not quite as soaked as she, but what did that matter? He approached her, hands in coat pockets, bowler nowhere in sight. As Emma gazed into his soft eyes, she could see the love and fiery passion brimming in them.
"What made you change your mind about . . .us?" Emma asked, attempting not to cry.
"I remembered that I didn't have to obey the same orders like the other spies!" Tongue planted firmly in cheek, John Steed concluded, "I am the exception, not the rule!"
Then he cupped Miss Knight's chin in his brawny hands and placed a delicate kiss on her wet mouth. Draping her arms over his shoulders, Emma returned the gesture but with much more zeal. When their lips pulled apart, Steed looked hopefully at her and said three simple words. "Marry me, Emma?"
Emma Knight flashed her gorgeous smile as she nodded her head. The rain streamed off her hair and face onto Steed's soaked shoes. As the duo laughed jovially at their wet predicament, Steed grabbed her by the waist and swung her around.
From his vantage point just outside the castle gate, Dr. Keel watched the oblivious couple. He knew then that his work was officially done. He disappeared into the castle where a porter waited with his luggage.
Steed's and Emma's lips interlocked a third time, and they kissed with all the ardour of a couple madly and truly in love.
Tag
**"Once there was an intelligent, handsome, and young man by the name of John Wickham Gascoyne Berresford Steed. To use an oxymoron, he was a roguish gentlemen. He could never get through the day without . . . well, flirting, but he did it with such a respectable manner no one ever minded, especially the ladies.
" Steed was part of a spy agency, and he was extremely good at his profession. One day he was assigned to a particularly difficult case: businessmen were disappearing after being stalked, and no one knew who was the kidnapper. All they knew was these businessmen were staying at a fancy resort near Derbyshire, and that it was imperative that Steed hurry on over with one of his partners. Anyway, Steed and [Keel], sleuthed and eventually solved the case.
"While on this case, Steed had meant an attractive young woman, and being what kind of a man he was, Steed had been trying to win her affections. However, this woman was Steed's counterpart in almost every way. She would not fall so easily for the charming Steed, and for once, Steed was at a lost. He did everything human possible to get her to love him. I don't know how or when it happened, but this woman suddenly was desperately in love with him.
"Steed, knowing how difficult it had been to get this woman to love him, realised it would be indecent just to end the relationship, but what else was there to do? [Perhaps] Steed thought about it for a full day in between solving the mystery, which was still going on at this time. Finally he made a rather startling discovery. He, John Steed, renowned spy and bachelor, had for the first time in his thirty odd years of existence fallen in love. He married her. In some people's eyes it was a terrible thing to do to such an independent woman.
"Mrs. Steed and he both worked, him as a spy, her as a business woman. It was really a very shocking thing to do to her, but they both found the arrangement admirable. Then the inevitable occurred, and Steed was faced with a new challenge. His wife was getting worried about him because of his profession. She insisted that she should be able to join the ministry and be partners with her husband, so they'd never be separated. Steed thought it was a simple enough request, considering what his other option was, which would be quitting the ministry. But One-ten, who was the head of the ministry at the time, disagreed. He believed if Steed's wife was his partner, Steed was liable to get distracted from his work. They would be kissing and carrying on in a disgusting fashion while the criminals got away.
"Soon Steed was taking off more days to spend with his wife, and so One-ten became panicky. What if this was Steed's way of letting us know that he wanted to quit the ministry? So One-ten did the only thing he could think of: he brainwashed Steed to forget that he was married, and he brainwashed his wife to think she was a widow of a man named Mr. Peter Peel. One-ten programmed them to still be very close friends, thinking this would compensate for his actions.**
"One day, with the help of Catherine Gale and Tara King, the Steeds discovered they were married. They were brainwashed once again, but their friends helped them remember. The ministry couldn't really brainwash them a third time, especially since Emma was now pregnant. So the Steeds and their ministry friends quit that agency and joined another one where they were more lenient over spies having spouses.
"Life has been one adventure after another for the Avengers. You may think that this is the end of their story. But I tell you that it is only the beginning . . ."
- Asterisked dialogue quoted from my first story, Mother Knows Best, with some revisions and editing
It was raining the next morning when Emma, John, and David finally awoke from a long slumber. The three met downstairs for breakfast, savoring each morsel of food and each other's company. After the meal, Keel excused himself claiming he had an important telephone call to make. Steed told Miss Knight that he was going to follow his comrade but that he would join her in the gaming room as soon as he could.
Emma smiled in reply, but as soon as he was out of sight, her smile turned into a small frown. Something had to be done about their relationship and she had a feeling it was not going to be an easy change to make.
Steed entered Dr. Keel's room not to find him on the phone but packing his clothes. "You're leaving so soon?"
"We finished the case except for the minor details you always work out." Keel looked up at his friend who was still befuddled. "Steed, I can't take anymore of this spy business. It just isn't my forte; doctoring is."
"I thought you found pleasure in avenging your fiancée's death," Steed replied.
"I never thoroughly enjoyed it, but I felt compelled to spy. I knew I wouldn't be content unless I helped put the criminals that had hurt Peggy and other dastardly villains behind bars." Keel's puppy dog eyes were moist with unashamed tears as he continued, "I will always miss Peggy, but I think it's time I move on. Seeing Miss Knight jarred me from my mourning and made me realise there are other people who need me. Peggy wouldn't have wanted me to continue to pine for her like this."
"I don't see what Miss Knight has to do with you and Peggy."
"Emma Knight, with her courage and intellect, reminded me of a woman other than Peggy-a woman who has stuck by me through all of my attempts to be a topnotch agent. I'm referring to my nurse, Carol, who has helped me on many cases and has consequently put her life in danger. When I saw how Miss Knight had remained so calm while men were threatening to murder her, it reminded me of Carol in similar circumstances. And it made me realise that I had started spying without asking her how she felt about working for me, how she felt knowing she could be kidnapped and killed.
"Carol Wilson has the same gumption and courage as your Miss Knight, but Carol can only give so much. I don't want to see another woman that I admire be killed! I don't think I could handle another death of a person I care so much about." David turned away from Steed as if he was ashamed of his decision. "That's why I must leave this bloody business while Carol and I are still alive. I have avenged my fiancée's death long enough; I need to no more."
John Steed cleared his throat tentatively before enquiring, "Should I stop visiting you altogether, or might I come if it is for a social or health reason?"
"You may come as frequently as you like if you promise to come as my friend or patient." Keel managed to smile despite his despondent feelings.
"You really were a great amateur agent, Keel," Mr. Steed managed to say without his voice breaking with emotions. "I am glad that I got the chance to work with you." He extended his arm for a handshake with the doctor.
"You are an excellent spy, Steed, if only you wouldn't be so ruthless when dealing with the criminals! I'm sure a lot of problems could be easily solved without you resorting to violence." At the sound of his friend's chuckling David Keel stopped his rant. He looked offended for a moment before he joined the merry laughter. "You will never change, Steed!"
"You won't change either, Keel ole boy. Steed slapped him on the back before continuing, "You will always care too much for humanity."
Dr. Keel grew serious as he asked, "What are you going to do about Miss Knight?"
Steed likewise became somber at this enquiry. "I really don't have any idea, but maybe you do?"
"I have to confess that another reason I decided to quit our partnership is because I believe that you love Emma Knight, even if you are a fool enough not to admit it. She will stay with you if you ask her and tell her the truth about your feelings. She will be your new partner in crime-fighting and do a darn good job if I do say so."
Steed shook his head in disagreement, replying, "I really don't think I love her-I can't form an attachment to anyone! Do you honestly think that a woman can take the place of you? As you said about Carol, women can only give so much."
Keel tried not to roll his eyes at this chauvinistic remark. "I said Miss Wilson can only give so much, but Miss Knight is entirely different. True, Carol is strong and brave, but Miss Knight doesn't care if she dies.
"Did you see that look in her eyes as she fought off Mr. Lanier and Mr. Henderson? She was a wildcat, releasing her emotions and getting her revenge! Emma is your counterpart," Dr. Keel paused before he added, "Carol is mine."
"But Miss Knight was placed into the middle of this crime ring without being asked just like Miss Wilson was with you!" Steed protested. "Emma befriended me, unaware that I was an agent, and fell in love with me. She knows that if she stays with me, she and I might both be killed on any given day. Can you comprehend what a vulnerable position into which I've place this strong, determined woman?" Steed leaned forward in order to stare boldly into his friend's eyes. "I can't risk her life in order to fulfill my selfish whims."
David Keel smiled in satisfaction before he announced, "You have just proven to me how very much you love Emma Knight! You'd rather she live than stay with you; I know what a sacrifice that is."
John Steed swallowed around the lump in his throat, not believing what he heard, nor believing how he felt. He was ready to admit that he had been a victim to his own trap! He was willing to say he had not only made a woman fall in love with him, but that he had fallen in love with that woman! "You finish your packing, while I find Miss Knight." Steed left abruptly, not waiting for an answer or any other accusations.
David Keel sighed, thinking of the lofty Miss Knight with her auburn hair and deep brown eyes. As he imagined the young woman, his thoughts drifted to another brunette, smaller, more delicate, but still independent. Dr. Keel heaved a sigh once again as he envisioned Carol Wilson. Her dark eyes weren't quite as big as Emma's, and she didn't have Miss Knight's stature, but she still was lovely to him. Her pale, oval head was outlined by dark tresses, which were always pulled back from her face.
He needed to call Miss Wilson and tell her he was returning to his surgery. He resolutely dialed the number and waited for his nurse and receptionist to answer it. Soon her sweet voice was speaking into the phone. "Carol, this is Dr. Keel," he paused briefly before finishing, "and I'm coming home."
"I shall see you shortly, Dr. Keel," replied the nurse. "Several of your patients needed help, so I sent them to the physician down the street, Dr. Martin King. Which reminds me: Dr. King mentioned some trouble with a crazed man who said something about 'the end of the world.' I was wondering if John Steed could have a look into it . . ."
Keel smiled as Carol continued her dialogue. He knew that Steed was about to be introduced to his next partner in crime fighting.
****************
Mr. Steed exited Keel's hotel room on his way downstairs, but the sight of Emma Knight checked him. She wore a black dress that stopped right above her kneecaps. Two thick white bands were spread across the chest, stopping before they reached the back. Emma waved gregariously at him, motioning him to follow her.
"You were supposed to be downstairs in the game room," Steed said accusatorily.
"I got anxious, so I wandered upstairs." Emma shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly, indicating that Steed shouldn't have a fit over her decision. They both entered her hotel room.
"I've often been told that redheads are impatient creatures." Steed wrapped Miss Knight in an amorous embrace and leaned forward for a kiss. Their lips touched confidently, and he was somewhat disappointed when Emma pulled away from him.
"Steed, what are we going to do about our relationship?" Emma Knight fervently asked.
"I intend to get as many kisses out of you as possible," was the mischievous reply.
Emma dodged the warm lips of her companion, saying, "No, I mean what does a person generally do when he falls in love with someone-"
"Someone who is a secret agent?" Steed concluded, his soft eyes gazing understandingly at her. "For starters, both of us have to make a sacrifice. You have to give up your job and I have to take on a woman partner knowing that the risks are greater. Of course, I can train you well, so you won't have any trouble. I always was the exceptional agent -"
"I don't see how there is any more danger when you work with a woman!" protested Emma. "And it seems to me that these sacrifices are fairly lopsided! I give up my work and begin a life of danger while you change nothing! Why don't you drop your job and become a normal human being?"
"And I suppose I should also marry you in the process?" Steed replied hotly.
"Yes, and I will continue being the chairman of the board at my corporation."
"Now you get all the advantages while I'm stuck with the rubbish!" Steed stared at Emma Knight, realising how fruitless this relationship was. "Face it, Miss Knight: we're both too obstinate to change our ways of life. I'm sorry, but this just won't work."
"Then I will return to my job and won't see you again," Emma pronounced decisively. "It was a wonderful few days, ones I'll never forget. I would have liked to work by your side, to save the world and fight crime. But I also want to be married, to love and be loved-something you evidently can't offer." Miss Knight quickly glanced away, afraid that he might see the tears in her eyes. "It's clear that you can't make a commitment of any kind. You want to have a steady woman to come home to each day while you have some fun on the sly."
"I never said anything like that!" Steed insisted.
"You don't have to; I can see it in your whole demeanor."
Steed cringed, for he knew she was right when she said he couldn't commit. The other matter, though, was completely insulting! He was a gentleman who would never fool around with fast women! Trying to find consolation in the heartrending situation, Steed remarked, "Oh well, the first rule in the ministry handbook is 'never take a spouse unless absolutely necessary.' I don't think being attracted to an accomplished woman qualifies as an absolute necessity."
"How fortunate for you that you aren't allowed to get involved with me," Emma commented bitterly. She grabbed Steed by the arm and pushed him out the door. "If you will excuse me, I'd like to be alone right now. Just as Steed was about to go to his own room, she observed, "You still won't say if you are really and truly in love me."
"Since I'm leaving, I don't find it crucial." Steed stepped over to Emma Knight in order to envelop her in another hug, but this time he was filled with comfort, not passion. "You are young and will love again, Miss Knight."
Emma squirmed out of his strong arms, not fully grasping his meaning. "Your whole intent since you first came here was to make me fall head over heels in love with you, and now you have the audacity to tell me I'll get over you?" Her fury dispelled and was replace with despondency as she added, "I will never find another you, John Steed."
With his Adam's apple bobbing in his throat and a heavy anchor weighing on his heart, John Steed became extremely uncomfortable. It was then that it hit him with such magnitude that he almost lost his breath. I love Emma! He almost shouted out loud. David Keel was right, confound the man! I want her and need her, but I've got to let her go.
But his reasons for letting her leave were rapidly disintegrating. Not one of them sounded feasible enough, not even for a reluctant dapper dandy like himself. True, Steed had had many girlfriends before, the cute women he turned to for a quiet meal and serious kissing. But never before did he have the desire to expand on the relationship and consider matrimony. Emma Knight was the only one he was willing to forfeit everything to be with.
Steed shook his head, realising that he was too set in his ways to change for anybody. He couldn't leave his job as an agent, and even if Emma wanted to help him with the cases, how could he let her when he could lose the one thing he loved the most? He was too chivalrous to just ignore all possible dangers and let her charge into the enemy's clutches. His mind and heart were divided, making it impossible to decided what road to take.
Emma witnessed this change of emotions in Steed but didn't know what to make of it. Sighing in exasperation, she shut the door in his face.
John Steed quietly and efficiently packed his suitcases then headed downstairs to the lobby. Jean, having been arrested, no longer worked there; so a new receptionist checked Mr. Steed out.
As he was heading out the door into the torrential downpour, Dr. Keel called to him, "So you are leaving as well, Steed?"
Mr. John Steed turned to face the compassionate doctor. "I broke Emma's heart, fell in love with her as well, and have no bloody clue what to do about it. I want her, but I don't want her to be killed. I can't help thinking of Peggy and how she was taken from you right before you were married."
"Why don't you compare yourself and Miss Knight to Carol and me?" suggest Keel. "We're still both here after all the spying and abductions."
"Are you trying to tell me that you and Carol have secretly been a couple?" John teased.
Keel chose to ignore the last playful accusation. "I just want my friends to be happy and successful in life."
Steed deliberated over the last sentence then declared, "I'll come visit you soon, Dr. Keel. Do you have any recommendations for a new partner for me?"
"Carol mentioned another doctor who needed your aid, so maybe he could assist you in return."
"I'll have to take a look into this matter when I get home."
"Steed," began the doctor, "what are you going to do about Miss Knight?"
"What I should have done from the very beginning: leave her alone." With that last direct answer, John Steed exited the castle. Since it was pouring outside, he asked a valet to fetch his car.
Keel knew that it would take a little longer for Steed to leave, so he ran upstairs to Miss Knight's room. He repeatedly knocked on her door until she had no choice but to open it. Emma gazed at him, dumbfounded before enquiring, "What are you doing here, Dr. Keel?"
"Steed-he's leaving," Keel panted before concluding, "and he's in love with you!"
Emma stared at him with wide but jubilant eyes. "He told you?" she whispered in utter ecstasy.
"I don't know you that well, but from what I can decipher, you and Steed were meant to be together. When you and he were together, there was something extraordinary in the air like electricity! It something's so phenomenal, I don't think anybody could explain it. You seem to be an extremely intelligent woman, but if you let Steed go, it will be the biggest mistake in your life!"
"Does this mean you no longer are his partner in crime-fighting?"
"I have my patients and my nurse who depend on me," Keel informed her.
Emma arched an eyebrow as she asked impishly, "Is this nurse looking forward to your return from Millbury Castle?"
David Keel crimsoned slightly before returning, "I sincerely hope so, but I can't be too certain or eager."
"I wish you the best of luck in your work, at the office and at home." Emma placed a light kiss on his creased forehead and dashed out of the room as quickly as a lioness on the prowl. She stormed into the lobby, never stopping, never thinking; just searching for Steed. As she ventured into the rain, she spotted him getting into his vehicle.
"Steed, wait for me!" Miss Knight shouted. She shoved a startled valet out of the way in order to reach Steed's car. Unfortunately, Steed did not hear her, or perhaps he did not wish to acknowledge her. He sped down the gravel and now muddy parking lot. Undaunted, Emma ran after him, yelling in a very uncharacteristic way.
Finally, Mr. Steed pulled off to the side of the car park and hopped out. He gazed at the drenched Miss Knight in surprise, as he demanded, "Why are you following me, Emma Knight? I thought we understood that this relationship could never work."
"You love me, and that's enough to get us through anything!" Emma cried. The heavy rain smeared her makeup and flattened her curled hair.
"No it isn't; not in this world and age." Now John's trench coat and bowler were sodden with the never ceasing rainfall.
"As you said, we both have to make sacrifices. We'll each give up a bit of our independence in order to be with each other. You can still be an agent, and I'll still be a successful entrepreneur. If you need help with a case, I will lend a hand, providing I'm not too busy."
"Actually, Keel told me of another doctor that could be my unofficial assistant."
"Then he could help you with the actual sleuthing while I did the brainwork at home!" suggested Emma Knight.
"It sounds admirable, but the ministry rules clearly specify that agents should not marry unless it's an emergency."
"Hang the regulations; I love you!" Emma swiped a piece of soaked hair from her forehead and stared directly into Steed's eyes.
Steed found himself kissing her ardently on her lips, cheeks, nose and forehead. He lightly brushed her mouth once more before he clambered into his car.
Emma stood still, utterly bemused, and then she rushed at him with all the rage of a madwoman. "You know what your problem is, Mr. John Steed? You are afraid to love because it might take something precious away from you. Whether it's your independency, free time, or your irresponsibility, I'm not certain, but I wouldn't doubt if it were all these things. I am willing to give up a little that is special to me, so why can't you do the same?" Frustrated at Steed's silence, she bellowed, "Fine, be a coward, and get out of my life!" She slammed his car door so loudly, the valet back at the castle entrance was certain it was the sound of thunder.
John Steed pulled out of the car park onto the long, winding drive that led to the highway. He cruised out of Emma's site-and her life, just as she had commanded him. Emma Knight never felt such desolation and complete despair. Steed's departure was incomparable even to both of her parent's death. She stared out into the void, wondering what she could have done to persuade Steed to stay.
Meanwhile, Steed drove through the blinding rain, meditating over the last several hours. Half of him wished he had decided differently, but the other was resolute in his choice. Then six words entered his head like a trumpet's clarion call. "I always was the exceptional agent." He had boasted that to Emma minutes ago, yet he was following the rulebook of every other spy by refusing to marry her! The words continued to drum in his brain, but still he relentlessly drove down the road away from Millbury Castle . . .
Miss Emma Knight was stationed to the ground outside the resort. She began to cry a myriad of silent tears-tears that mingled with the rainwater. The water poured from her sopping dress to the mud and gravel. She gazed into the distance as if it might pull John Steed out of his car. After countless minutes, it became evident that she had lost the most wonderful gift on earth: Love. She turned to enter the castle, but as she did, the resonance of a slamming door compelled her to whirl around.
There in the middle of the parking lot was John Steed, not quite as soaked as she, but what did that matter? He approached her, hands in coat pockets, bowler nowhere in sight. As Emma gazed into his soft eyes, she could see the love and fiery passion brimming in them.
"What made you change your mind about . . .us?" Emma asked, attempting not to cry.
"I remembered that I didn't have to obey the same orders like the other spies!" Tongue planted firmly in cheek, John Steed concluded, "I am the exception, not the rule!"
Then he cupped Miss Knight's chin in his brawny hands and placed a delicate kiss on her wet mouth. Draping her arms over his shoulders, Emma returned the gesture but with much more zeal. When their lips pulled apart, Steed looked hopefully at her and said three simple words. "Marry me, Emma?"
Emma Knight flashed her gorgeous smile as she nodded her head. The rain streamed off her hair and face onto Steed's soaked shoes. As the duo laughed jovially at their wet predicament, Steed grabbed her by the waist and swung her around.
From his vantage point just outside the castle gate, Dr. Keel watched the oblivious couple. He knew then that his work was officially done. He disappeared into the castle where a porter waited with his luggage.
Steed's and Emma's lips interlocked a third time, and they kissed with all the ardour of a couple madly and truly in love.
Tag
**"Once there was an intelligent, handsome, and young man by the name of John Wickham Gascoyne Berresford Steed. To use an oxymoron, he was a roguish gentlemen. He could never get through the day without . . . well, flirting, but he did it with such a respectable manner no one ever minded, especially the ladies.
" Steed was part of a spy agency, and he was extremely good at his profession. One day he was assigned to a particularly difficult case: businessmen were disappearing after being stalked, and no one knew who was the kidnapper. All they knew was these businessmen were staying at a fancy resort near Derbyshire, and that it was imperative that Steed hurry on over with one of his partners. Anyway, Steed and [Keel], sleuthed and eventually solved the case.
"While on this case, Steed had meant an attractive young woman, and being what kind of a man he was, Steed had been trying to win her affections. However, this woman was Steed's counterpart in almost every way. She would not fall so easily for the charming Steed, and for once, Steed was at a lost. He did everything human possible to get her to love him. I don't know how or when it happened, but this woman suddenly was desperately in love with him.
"Steed, knowing how difficult it had been to get this woman to love him, realised it would be indecent just to end the relationship, but what else was there to do? [Perhaps] Steed thought about it for a full day in between solving the mystery, which was still going on at this time. Finally he made a rather startling discovery. He, John Steed, renowned spy and bachelor, had for the first time in his thirty odd years of existence fallen in love. He married her. In some people's eyes it was a terrible thing to do to such an independent woman.
"Mrs. Steed and he both worked, him as a spy, her as a business woman. It was really a very shocking thing to do to her, but they both found the arrangement admirable. Then the inevitable occurred, and Steed was faced with a new challenge. His wife was getting worried about him because of his profession. She insisted that she should be able to join the ministry and be partners with her husband, so they'd never be separated. Steed thought it was a simple enough request, considering what his other option was, which would be quitting the ministry. But One-ten, who was the head of the ministry at the time, disagreed. He believed if Steed's wife was his partner, Steed was liable to get distracted from his work. They would be kissing and carrying on in a disgusting fashion while the criminals got away.
"Soon Steed was taking off more days to spend with his wife, and so One-ten became panicky. What if this was Steed's way of letting us know that he wanted to quit the ministry? So One-ten did the only thing he could think of: he brainwashed Steed to forget that he was married, and he brainwashed his wife to think she was a widow of a man named Mr. Peter Peel. One-ten programmed them to still be very close friends, thinking this would compensate for his actions.**
"One day, with the help of Catherine Gale and Tara King, the Steeds discovered they were married. They were brainwashed once again, but their friends helped them remember. The ministry couldn't really brainwash them a third time, especially since Emma was now pregnant. So the Steeds and their ministry friends quit that agency and joined another one where they were more lenient over spies having spouses.
"Life has been one adventure after another for the Avengers. You may think that this is the end of their story. But I tell you that it is only the beginning . . ."
- Asterisked dialogue quoted from my first story, Mother Knows Best, with some revisions and editing