Disclaimer: Sadly I don't own anything to do with ER or any of the
characters. Pity!
This is my first fan fiction so please be kind with the reviews and any constructive criticism would be welcome.
Chapter 3
Elizabeth sat in her car outside of Robert's house. What was she waiting for? It was just dinner. Ella was getting restless in the back seat. She looked in the mirror for the last time and checked her hair. She got out of the car and bundled Ella in her arms, and walked up to the door. Ella was wearing a pretty light blue dress with her hair in plaits even though her hair wasn't really long enough.
She hesitated before she rang the bell. Did she really want to go in? The better part of her knew what she wanted. She rang the bell.
Robert was in the kitchen when the bell rang. He looked at the clock, it was quarter to seven. Was it Elizabeth or a door-to-door sales person? If it were a sales person he would shoot them for disturbing him. He hoped it was Elizabeth and that she hadn't changed her mind about accepting dinner. Every time the phone he thought it was her phoning to cancel, but found it was Kes on her cell phone, teasing him, because she knew how nervous he was. Kes poked her head round the corner.
"Are you going to get the door, or let her stay out there all night?" She said returning to setting the dining room table. He walked towards the door. Before he opened it, he took a deep breath. She was here. Standing at his door along with little Ella. He had a soft spot for that girl.
"Come on in Lizzie, you're early." He turned to Ella, "Hello sweetheart. Don't you look pretty?" She hid her face and then turned it back again, smiling. Elizabeth hadn't of realised that she was early. How must that appear to him? She may appear just too keen, but she was. She wanted to see what Robert was like on his own turf, where he was probably more at ease.
Elizabeth entered his home. She had known where Robert lived for a while but had never been inside. It was a large house, darkly decorated, but tasteful.
Elizabeth put Ella down for a moment while Robert took her coat and hung it up. She looked gorgeous, but then again, she always did. The black top was slim fitting and showed off her amazing figure perfectly.
Kes appeared from the shadows. Elizabeth noticed she had changed out of her rock outfit and chose to wear something more conservative, a black fitted shirt and trousers. Robert made the introduction.
"Lizzie, this is my niece, Kes. And this is Elizabeth Corday and her daughter, the ever beautiful Ella." They said hello and Kes knelt down to say hi to Ella.
"Kes is an interesting name." Elizabeth commented.
"It's short for Kestrel. My parents were going through a bird watching phase. They walked into the lounge with Kes leading the way holding Ella's hand. The lounge was darkly decorated with a black leather suite, and a real fire going. There were a couple of bottles of wine already on the table with three glasses. Elizabeth took it that the third glass was for Kes, even though she didn't look much older than fifteen.
Ella sat on the floor close to the couch and Kes followed suit. Elizabeth dug out some toys for Ella to play with from her bag. Robert had gone, seemingly to the kitchen to check on the food, so gave Elizabeth the chance to talk to Kes.
"So, how long are you staying here?"
"Only tonight. I'm catching an early flight tomorrow morning." Kes answered. Elizabeth felt so guilty. They probably hardly ever saw each other, and they had to spend their time with someone Kes hardly knew.
"Sorry, if I had known I would have arranged this another night." Even though it was Robert's idea, she thought.
"Don't be daft. I've wanted to meet you for a long time now. I've heard a lot about you and may I say none of it was wrong."
"Like what?" Elizabeth said intrigued.
"I heard you are an amazing surgeon with astounding beauty." Elizabeth blushed. "And he was right, well about the beauty part anyways." Elizabeth felt herself getting increasing more flushed.
Kes noticed Robert coming through the door and added, "Well, he needs a chaperon." His face was a picture, like he was in shock that he just heard that.
"Hey!" he complained.
"Only kidding." Kes reassured him.
"Dinner won't be long." He told Elizabeth, pretending to ignore Kes who was still laughing at his expression. He wanted to get off that subject. "So, what were you ladies talking about?"
"Elizabeth wanted to know all the juicy gossip about you." Kes laughed.
"Really?" Robert said, turning to Elizabeth staring at her. She couldn't look at him. How could Kes know what she was thinking? Was it really that obvious? Robert ignored the fact that she was bright red without comment, much to the delight of Elizabeth.
"Well, you are asking the right source. Kes knows everything about me, don't you sweetheart?" Kes nodded in agreement. Robert poured the wine and handed one glass to Elizabeth and one to Kes.
"I didn't know if Ella would have eaten something already so I've made her a little something." Robert said, pouring himself a glass of red wine.
"No, she hasn't eaten yet." Elizabeth answered.
"It's probably ready by now; I'll just go and check on it." And he left the room. He was so nervous and he knew it showed, but he wanted everything to go perfect tonight and for her by the end of it to agree to come with him. So far, it looks really possible that she would come, but there's still the meal to get through.
Ella was on the floor playing with a cup she had pulled out of the bag.
"I'll go and get her drink." Kes offered.
"It's ok, I'll go and you can stay and play with Ella." Elizabeth took the cup from Ella and went in search of the kitchen. It wasn't hard to find, just follow the gorgeous smell and there she was. Robert was added some cream to the dessert, which looked extremely advertising.
"Robert?" He jumped with fright. He didn't realise she was there. "Is it ok if I get Ella a drink?" She asked.
"Of course. There should be something in the fridge." He said, indicated behind her where the fridge was. She filled the cup with apple juice and then stood beside Robert.
"Why don't we just skip the meal and get to what we both really want?" She said in a low voice. Robert looked at her with confusion. Did he just hear that?
"Excuse me?" He spluttered.
"The chocolate gateau. Looks great." And she walked off. Robert watched her as she left the kitchen and returned to the lounge. He laughed to himself at what was just said. She always did know how to get his heart racing.
Dinner was served in the dining room, which was another spacious room, but not so darkly decorated. It didn't look like it had been used very much either. The food was amazing. The spaghetti carbonara was delicious and the gateau was as tasty as she had thought, although she couldn't help but look at Robert when he served it. Over dinner, Robert and Kes described the Italian villa in Positano for her. A beautiful house in a beautiful setting. She knew she wanted to go, but Robert was trying so hard that she didn't want to let on yet that she had already decided.
Elizabeth loved seeing Robert like this. He wasn't argumentative or antagonistic; he was generous, sweet and friendly. He was like a completely different person, the person Elizabeth knew he could be. When they had finished off the last drop of the wine, they sat and talked for a while.
"That was gorgeous. May I compliment you both on your cooking." Elizabeth said.
"Thanks, but I wouldn't compliment me. This is all Rob's handiwork. I'm not a cook. I'm quite happy with microwave meals." Elizabeth felt a little embarrassed; she had just assumed that they had done it together.
"Yeah I did it single handed." Kes groaned, "Come on that was good." Robert argued. Elizabeth had never seen him take such a lighthearted view of his arm. It was good to see that he might be finally accepting it.
"It was lovely Robert." Elizabeth complimented him. Robert was unfamiliar with compliments. He never received them from anyone, even his closest relations. It lifted his heart to have Lizzie compliment him. He felt he was getting somewhere with her about the holiday. He knew he had to show here a different side of him that she occasionally saw and that he could be kind. He hoped he had achieved it, but he was still unsure. She still hadn't given him any indication about her decision. The longer the night went on, the more likely she was to refuse, but he didn't want her to leave just yet, he enjoyed having her round.
Kes was playing with Ella at the table and all that could be heard was Ella's giggle.
"You're good with kids Kes." Elizabeth noted.
"At home, I baby-sit for a young couple across the road that has a daughter the same age." Kes explained.
"Kes, why don't you take Ella and Elizabeth into the lounge while I shove the dishes into the dishwasher?" Robert suggested. Kes picked up Ella and Elizabeth followed with the wine glasses. This was her opportunity to talk to Kes about Robert, and what he was like with her.
"You and Robert seem to get on very well." She started.
"Yeah we do. He spoils me rotten. Take this necklace for instance. He just bought me this today." It was a silver cross with a small diamond in the middle. "It's Tiffany. Robert does nothing by halves. It has to be the best for his tearaway niece. For my tenth birthday, he kidnapped me, and took me to Disneyland because I said I wanted to go. We spend my birthday wandering around, going on the rides. It was magical. That night we caught a flight home, and my mother was furious with him when we got in. But he wanted to do something special for my birthday. That's Robert for you. Admittedly, it wasn't always like that. Before he had Eliza and Matt to spoil so he didn't need me." Elizabeth stopped her for a moment.
"Who are Eliza and Matt?" Elizabeth had never heard those names before. Kes' face went white.
"You don't know?" She said.
"No." Elizabeth said confused.
"I had to go and open my big month." Kes said talking out loud to herself. "Elizabeth, do me a favour, forgot I ever said anything. I assumed you were in the loop. And I was mistaken." She said, worrying Elizabeth greatly. Who were Eliza and Matt?
"Of course. I won't mention it." What were they hiding?
"She really is beautiful." Kes said, changing the subject. "I know Robert has a soft spot for Ella, he wants to buy her presents, but he thinks you will disapprove." Elizabeth wasn't really listening. He mind was still on these two people. Who were they? Friends? Parents? Family? She didn't know. Robert soon returned with another bottle of wine. Ella gave out a little yawn.
"She's tired." Robert said. "You can let her sleep in one of the guest rooms if you like." He offered.
"That would great." Elizabeth said. After settling Ella down in the guest room and came back down stairs. There was a dog sitting in the room as well now. Elizabeth recognised her. It was Gretel, she remembered him operating on her a few years ago. Robert started to fill up her glass again
"Better not." She said. "I've got drive home yet."
"You can't drive home Elizabeth. It's too late. Anyways, you don't want to wake up Ella. Why don't you stay here tonight? Robert has the room." Kes proposed. It wasn't such a bad idea. Last thing she wanted to do was to disturb Ella. She might not settle the rest of the night if she's woken.
"If it's alright with Robert, I wouldn't mind staying. I would be easier." She said turning to Robert.
"No problem."
They all sat talking for a couple more hours until it got to the early hours in the morning. Elizabeth had never seen this side of Robert before and she liked it. Kes was a lovely girl, and showed many of Robert's traits such as sarcasm. She could certainly beat Robert in that department, but Robert didn't seem to mind.
"Look, it's getting late. I think I better follow Ella and go to bed. It is twelve o'clock after all and I have to catch the seven o clock flight." Kes said.
"Where do you want to sleep?" Robert asked.
"What time are you both working tomorrow?"
"I'm in at ten. Lizzie?"
"Nine."
"It would be better if I slept on the couch. That way I won't disturb either of you in the morning." She said.
"Well, if you're sure...." Robert said.
"You can talk in the kitchen, but please keep it down. I really need to catch this flight." Robert and Elizabeth grabbed the bottle and glasses and made their way to kitchen.
"Are you sure Robert that you don't mind me staying here tonight?" She asked sitting down at the table.
"No. It's just weird having a full house for once. Have you made a decision about Italy yet?" He asked. Please say yes, Please say yes! He sat opposite her.
"I have." She still didn't want to give it away. Make him sweat a little.
"And..." He said. TELL ME!!!
"I would love to go Robert." He could hardly keep his composure. Actually he didn't. He couldn't help but smile.
"You won't regret it."
"Oh, I know I won't." She said taking hold of his hand. She suddenly realised how much she wanted to kiss him. They looked at each other. Deep into their eyes. Every passion that was running through them could be seen, but neither wanted to make the first move. Elizabeth finally broke eye contact, but didn't remove her hand. She looked over to the collection of empty wine bottles on the end of the table.
"If anyone went through your bin they would think you were an alcoholic." They laughed. Elizabeth felt comfortable in his company. It had been a long time since she had felt that. But she had to resist the temptation to kiss him, it wouldn't be right, no matter what her heart said, her head told he to be wise, and suppress the feelings she had.
"I really should be getting to bed. Another long day at County ahead of me." She stood up and finally let go of his hand. He showed her to her room, right next door to wear Ella was sleeping. They stood at the door a while. Neither wanting it to end.
"Thank you for inviting me Robert. Tonight's been fun." Elizabeth said.
"Yeah, it has."
"Night."
"Night Lizzie." She turned to go in her room, but turned back to Robert and kissed him. He put his right arm round her waist, and pulled her in tighter. It was just like she dreamed, and the soon broke off and looked at each like they both couldn't believe what they had just done.
"Night Robert." Elizabeth said. She turned and went into her room. The wine had given her confidence to do what she really wanted. She stood leaning against the door, smiling to herself at what she did. She knew this holiday with him was going to be fun. She quickly got to sleep and dreamed of far off places, all with Robert.
Robert couldn't believe his luck. She was coming on holiday with him, and not only that but she kissed him. He couldn't help but think that it might have something to do with the amount of alcohol they both had drunk. But still, she kissed him!
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Elizabeth woke with the sound of a tapping on the door.
"Elizabeth, are you awake?" It was Kes.
"What time is it?" Elizabeth asked. Kes came into her room with a mug in her hand.
"It's six o'clock. I thought I'd better wake you before I went to the airport." And she handed Elizabeth a cup of coffee.
"Thank you Kes" It didn't feel that long ago that she dropped off to sleep. She had slept right through the night.
"I've already fed Ella, and she gone back to sleep again." Kes explained. "I've got to go now. It was nice to meet Elizabeth."
"You too." Kes started to walk out of the door. But Elizabeth needed to know something. "Kes, is Robert awake?"
"I haven't woken him. Would you do the honours?" Now there was a proposition thought Elizabeth. "Second door on you're right. I'm really sorry I have to dash off like this. Maybe we meet again sometime?"
"That would be nice. You better go before you miss your flight." And Kes left, leaving a very tired Elizabeth in the bedroom. She looked around the room. She didn't have chance last night, she was so tired. The bed covers were silver silk and the room was simply decorated. Again, she didn't think it has had much use. She found a dressing gown on the back of the door and wrapped herself up in it. She went down into the kitchen and made some breakfast. Last thing she wanted today was work. She really wanted to stay here and talk to Robert more, but he had work as well.
When it got to about seven o'clock, she thought it was time to wake up Robert. She took up a mug of coffee for him. She found his room and quietly opened the door. He was still asleep and so was Gretel. She walked over to his bed and sat on the edge. She whispered his name. She didn't want to give him a start. Slowly he woke up.
"Elizabeth?" he said.
"Morning Robert."
What's the time?" he said struggling to sit up in bed.
"Just after seven." She handed him the cup of coffee.
"Where's Kes?" He took a sip of the coffee.
"She's gone already. It's just you and me." She smiled at him. She didn't think anyone had seen him in the morning before. "I've got to go soon. I need to change and get ready for work and so do you." She got up and went to the door. "Can I ask? Why didn't you let Gretel out last night when Ella was downstairs?" She said looking at her still asleep in her basket.
"She can get boisterous round strangers. I didn't want her knocking Ella over. Thanks for the coffee, by the way."
"I'll be downstairs if you need me." She said and went to get ready.
She got dressed, got Ella ready and made her way downstairs. Robert was up by now and making his breakfast in the kitchen.
"Hello Robert." She said.
"So, you off now?" He said trying hard to hide the disappointment in his voice. He didn't want her to leave, not yet, but they couldn't just blow off work. He also felt a bit awkward. He didn't know how to interrupt that kiss last night. Was it the drink? A thank you? Or a burst of feeling?
"Yeah. Thank you for last night, it was great." She said trying to get Ella's coat on, but she was struggling, like she didn't want to leave, just like Elizabeth.
"Don't mention it. I'm glad you decided to come to Italy with me, Lizzie." He took Ella's coat off Elizabeth and put it on Ella, without Ella struggling. When she was finally ready to leave, they all walked to the door.
"Robert, I don't want you to think that I'm trying to get out of here quickly. It's just I have to get Ella ready for the baby sitter and..."
"It's OK Lizzie. I knew you had to get up and out early. I didn't take it the wrong way." He reassured her. He opened the door for her.
"I'll see you at work Robert." And she gently kissed him on the cheek and left the house. Robert knew that kiss was a thank you, so that meant the one last night was feelings. He watched her as she drive down the road and out of sight.
This is my first fan fiction so please be kind with the reviews and any constructive criticism would be welcome.
Chapter 3
Elizabeth sat in her car outside of Robert's house. What was she waiting for? It was just dinner. Ella was getting restless in the back seat. She looked in the mirror for the last time and checked her hair. She got out of the car and bundled Ella in her arms, and walked up to the door. Ella was wearing a pretty light blue dress with her hair in plaits even though her hair wasn't really long enough.
She hesitated before she rang the bell. Did she really want to go in? The better part of her knew what she wanted. She rang the bell.
Robert was in the kitchen when the bell rang. He looked at the clock, it was quarter to seven. Was it Elizabeth or a door-to-door sales person? If it were a sales person he would shoot them for disturbing him. He hoped it was Elizabeth and that she hadn't changed her mind about accepting dinner. Every time the phone he thought it was her phoning to cancel, but found it was Kes on her cell phone, teasing him, because she knew how nervous he was. Kes poked her head round the corner.
"Are you going to get the door, or let her stay out there all night?" She said returning to setting the dining room table. He walked towards the door. Before he opened it, he took a deep breath. She was here. Standing at his door along with little Ella. He had a soft spot for that girl.
"Come on in Lizzie, you're early." He turned to Ella, "Hello sweetheart. Don't you look pretty?" She hid her face and then turned it back again, smiling. Elizabeth hadn't of realised that she was early. How must that appear to him? She may appear just too keen, but she was. She wanted to see what Robert was like on his own turf, where he was probably more at ease.
Elizabeth entered his home. She had known where Robert lived for a while but had never been inside. It was a large house, darkly decorated, but tasteful.
Elizabeth put Ella down for a moment while Robert took her coat and hung it up. She looked gorgeous, but then again, she always did. The black top was slim fitting and showed off her amazing figure perfectly.
Kes appeared from the shadows. Elizabeth noticed she had changed out of her rock outfit and chose to wear something more conservative, a black fitted shirt and trousers. Robert made the introduction.
"Lizzie, this is my niece, Kes. And this is Elizabeth Corday and her daughter, the ever beautiful Ella." They said hello and Kes knelt down to say hi to Ella.
"Kes is an interesting name." Elizabeth commented.
"It's short for Kestrel. My parents were going through a bird watching phase. They walked into the lounge with Kes leading the way holding Ella's hand. The lounge was darkly decorated with a black leather suite, and a real fire going. There were a couple of bottles of wine already on the table with three glasses. Elizabeth took it that the third glass was for Kes, even though she didn't look much older than fifteen.
Ella sat on the floor close to the couch and Kes followed suit. Elizabeth dug out some toys for Ella to play with from her bag. Robert had gone, seemingly to the kitchen to check on the food, so gave Elizabeth the chance to talk to Kes.
"So, how long are you staying here?"
"Only tonight. I'm catching an early flight tomorrow morning." Kes answered. Elizabeth felt so guilty. They probably hardly ever saw each other, and they had to spend their time with someone Kes hardly knew.
"Sorry, if I had known I would have arranged this another night." Even though it was Robert's idea, she thought.
"Don't be daft. I've wanted to meet you for a long time now. I've heard a lot about you and may I say none of it was wrong."
"Like what?" Elizabeth said intrigued.
"I heard you are an amazing surgeon with astounding beauty." Elizabeth blushed. "And he was right, well about the beauty part anyways." Elizabeth felt herself getting increasing more flushed.
Kes noticed Robert coming through the door and added, "Well, he needs a chaperon." His face was a picture, like he was in shock that he just heard that.
"Hey!" he complained.
"Only kidding." Kes reassured him.
"Dinner won't be long." He told Elizabeth, pretending to ignore Kes who was still laughing at his expression. He wanted to get off that subject. "So, what were you ladies talking about?"
"Elizabeth wanted to know all the juicy gossip about you." Kes laughed.
"Really?" Robert said, turning to Elizabeth staring at her. She couldn't look at him. How could Kes know what she was thinking? Was it really that obvious? Robert ignored the fact that she was bright red without comment, much to the delight of Elizabeth.
"Well, you are asking the right source. Kes knows everything about me, don't you sweetheart?" Kes nodded in agreement. Robert poured the wine and handed one glass to Elizabeth and one to Kes.
"I didn't know if Ella would have eaten something already so I've made her a little something." Robert said, pouring himself a glass of red wine.
"No, she hasn't eaten yet." Elizabeth answered.
"It's probably ready by now; I'll just go and check on it." And he left the room. He was so nervous and he knew it showed, but he wanted everything to go perfect tonight and for her by the end of it to agree to come with him. So far, it looks really possible that she would come, but there's still the meal to get through.
Ella was on the floor playing with a cup she had pulled out of the bag.
"I'll go and get her drink." Kes offered.
"It's ok, I'll go and you can stay and play with Ella." Elizabeth took the cup from Ella and went in search of the kitchen. It wasn't hard to find, just follow the gorgeous smell and there she was. Robert was added some cream to the dessert, which looked extremely advertising.
"Robert?" He jumped with fright. He didn't realise she was there. "Is it ok if I get Ella a drink?" She asked.
"Of course. There should be something in the fridge." He said, indicated behind her where the fridge was. She filled the cup with apple juice and then stood beside Robert.
"Why don't we just skip the meal and get to what we both really want?" She said in a low voice. Robert looked at her with confusion. Did he just hear that?
"Excuse me?" He spluttered.
"The chocolate gateau. Looks great." And she walked off. Robert watched her as she left the kitchen and returned to the lounge. He laughed to himself at what was just said. She always did know how to get his heart racing.
Dinner was served in the dining room, which was another spacious room, but not so darkly decorated. It didn't look like it had been used very much either. The food was amazing. The spaghetti carbonara was delicious and the gateau was as tasty as she had thought, although she couldn't help but look at Robert when he served it. Over dinner, Robert and Kes described the Italian villa in Positano for her. A beautiful house in a beautiful setting. She knew she wanted to go, but Robert was trying so hard that she didn't want to let on yet that she had already decided.
Elizabeth loved seeing Robert like this. He wasn't argumentative or antagonistic; he was generous, sweet and friendly. He was like a completely different person, the person Elizabeth knew he could be. When they had finished off the last drop of the wine, they sat and talked for a while.
"That was gorgeous. May I compliment you both on your cooking." Elizabeth said.
"Thanks, but I wouldn't compliment me. This is all Rob's handiwork. I'm not a cook. I'm quite happy with microwave meals." Elizabeth felt a little embarrassed; she had just assumed that they had done it together.
"Yeah I did it single handed." Kes groaned, "Come on that was good." Robert argued. Elizabeth had never seen him take such a lighthearted view of his arm. It was good to see that he might be finally accepting it.
"It was lovely Robert." Elizabeth complimented him. Robert was unfamiliar with compliments. He never received them from anyone, even his closest relations. It lifted his heart to have Lizzie compliment him. He felt he was getting somewhere with her about the holiday. He knew he had to show here a different side of him that she occasionally saw and that he could be kind. He hoped he had achieved it, but he was still unsure. She still hadn't given him any indication about her decision. The longer the night went on, the more likely she was to refuse, but he didn't want her to leave just yet, he enjoyed having her round.
Kes was playing with Ella at the table and all that could be heard was Ella's giggle.
"You're good with kids Kes." Elizabeth noted.
"At home, I baby-sit for a young couple across the road that has a daughter the same age." Kes explained.
"Kes, why don't you take Ella and Elizabeth into the lounge while I shove the dishes into the dishwasher?" Robert suggested. Kes picked up Ella and Elizabeth followed with the wine glasses. This was her opportunity to talk to Kes about Robert, and what he was like with her.
"You and Robert seem to get on very well." She started.
"Yeah we do. He spoils me rotten. Take this necklace for instance. He just bought me this today." It was a silver cross with a small diamond in the middle. "It's Tiffany. Robert does nothing by halves. It has to be the best for his tearaway niece. For my tenth birthday, he kidnapped me, and took me to Disneyland because I said I wanted to go. We spend my birthday wandering around, going on the rides. It was magical. That night we caught a flight home, and my mother was furious with him when we got in. But he wanted to do something special for my birthday. That's Robert for you. Admittedly, it wasn't always like that. Before he had Eliza and Matt to spoil so he didn't need me." Elizabeth stopped her for a moment.
"Who are Eliza and Matt?" Elizabeth had never heard those names before. Kes' face went white.
"You don't know?" She said.
"No." Elizabeth said confused.
"I had to go and open my big month." Kes said talking out loud to herself. "Elizabeth, do me a favour, forgot I ever said anything. I assumed you were in the loop. And I was mistaken." She said, worrying Elizabeth greatly. Who were Eliza and Matt?
"Of course. I won't mention it." What were they hiding?
"She really is beautiful." Kes said, changing the subject. "I know Robert has a soft spot for Ella, he wants to buy her presents, but he thinks you will disapprove." Elizabeth wasn't really listening. He mind was still on these two people. Who were they? Friends? Parents? Family? She didn't know. Robert soon returned with another bottle of wine. Ella gave out a little yawn.
"She's tired." Robert said. "You can let her sleep in one of the guest rooms if you like." He offered.
"That would great." Elizabeth said. After settling Ella down in the guest room and came back down stairs. There was a dog sitting in the room as well now. Elizabeth recognised her. It was Gretel, she remembered him operating on her a few years ago. Robert started to fill up her glass again
"Better not." She said. "I've got drive home yet."
"You can't drive home Elizabeth. It's too late. Anyways, you don't want to wake up Ella. Why don't you stay here tonight? Robert has the room." Kes proposed. It wasn't such a bad idea. Last thing she wanted to do was to disturb Ella. She might not settle the rest of the night if she's woken.
"If it's alright with Robert, I wouldn't mind staying. I would be easier." She said turning to Robert.
"No problem."
They all sat talking for a couple more hours until it got to the early hours in the morning. Elizabeth had never seen this side of Robert before and she liked it. Kes was a lovely girl, and showed many of Robert's traits such as sarcasm. She could certainly beat Robert in that department, but Robert didn't seem to mind.
"Look, it's getting late. I think I better follow Ella and go to bed. It is twelve o'clock after all and I have to catch the seven o clock flight." Kes said.
"Where do you want to sleep?" Robert asked.
"What time are you both working tomorrow?"
"I'm in at ten. Lizzie?"
"Nine."
"It would be better if I slept on the couch. That way I won't disturb either of you in the morning." She said.
"Well, if you're sure...." Robert said.
"You can talk in the kitchen, but please keep it down. I really need to catch this flight." Robert and Elizabeth grabbed the bottle and glasses and made their way to kitchen.
"Are you sure Robert that you don't mind me staying here tonight?" She asked sitting down at the table.
"No. It's just weird having a full house for once. Have you made a decision about Italy yet?" He asked. Please say yes, Please say yes! He sat opposite her.
"I have." She still didn't want to give it away. Make him sweat a little.
"And..." He said. TELL ME!!!
"I would love to go Robert." He could hardly keep his composure. Actually he didn't. He couldn't help but smile.
"You won't regret it."
"Oh, I know I won't." She said taking hold of his hand. She suddenly realised how much she wanted to kiss him. They looked at each other. Deep into their eyes. Every passion that was running through them could be seen, but neither wanted to make the first move. Elizabeth finally broke eye contact, but didn't remove her hand. She looked over to the collection of empty wine bottles on the end of the table.
"If anyone went through your bin they would think you were an alcoholic." They laughed. Elizabeth felt comfortable in his company. It had been a long time since she had felt that. But she had to resist the temptation to kiss him, it wouldn't be right, no matter what her heart said, her head told he to be wise, and suppress the feelings she had.
"I really should be getting to bed. Another long day at County ahead of me." She stood up and finally let go of his hand. He showed her to her room, right next door to wear Ella was sleeping. They stood at the door a while. Neither wanting it to end.
"Thank you for inviting me Robert. Tonight's been fun." Elizabeth said.
"Yeah, it has."
"Night."
"Night Lizzie." She turned to go in her room, but turned back to Robert and kissed him. He put his right arm round her waist, and pulled her in tighter. It was just like she dreamed, and the soon broke off and looked at each like they both couldn't believe what they had just done.
"Night Robert." Elizabeth said. She turned and went into her room. The wine had given her confidence to do what she really wanted. She stood leaning against the door, smiling to herself at what she did. She knew this holiday with him was going to be fun. She quickly got to sleep and dreamed of far off places, all with Robert.
Robert couldn't believe his luck. She was coming on holiday with him, and not only that but she kissed him. He couldn't help but think that it might have something to do with the amount of alcohol they both had drunk. But still, she kissed him!
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Elizabeth woke with the sound of a tapping on the door.
"Elizabeth, are you awake?" It was Kes.
"What time is it?" Elizabeth asked. Kes came into her room with a mug in her hand.
"It's six o'clock. I thought I'd better wake you before I went to the airport." And she handed Elizabeth a cup of coffee.
"Thank you Kes" It didn't feel that long ago that she dropped off to sleep. She had slept right through the night.
"I've already fed Ella, and she gone back to sleep again." Kes explained. "I've got to go now. It was nice to meet Elizabeth."
"You too." Kes started to walk out of the door. But Elizabeth needed to know something. "Kes, is Robert awake?"
"I haven't woken him. Would you do the honours?" Now there was a proposition thought Elizabeth. "Second door on you're right. I'm really sorry I have to dash off like this. Maybe we meet again sometime?"
"That would be nice. You better go before you miss your flight." And Kes left, leaving a very tired Elizabeth in the bedroom. She looked around the room. She didn't have chance last night, she was so tired. The bed covers were silver silk and the room was simply decorated. Again, she didn't think it has had much use. She found a dressing gown on the back of the door and wrapped herself up in it. She went down into the kitchen and made some breakfast. Last thing she wanted today was work. She really wanted to stay here and talk to Robert more, but he had work as well.
When it got to about seven o'clock, she thought it was time to wake up Robert. She took up a mug of coffee for him. She found his room and quietly opened the door. He was still asleep and so was Gretel. She walked over to his bed and sat on the edge. She whispered his name. She didn't want to give him a start. Slowly he woke up.
"Elizabeth?" he said.
"Morning Robert."
What's the time?" he said struggling to sit up in bed.
"Just after seven." She handed him the cup of coffee.
"Where's Kes?" He took a sip of the coffee.
"She's gone already. It's just you and me." She smiled at him. She didn't think anyone had seen him in the morning before. "I've got to go soon. I need to change and get ready for work and so do you." She got up and went to the door. "Can I ask? Why didn't you let Gretel out last night when Ella was downstairs?" She said looking at her still asleep in her basket.
"She can get boisterous round strangers. I didn't want her knocking Ella over. Thanks for the coffee, by the way."
"I'll be downstairs if you need me." She said and went to get ready.
She got dressed, got Ella ready and made her way downstairs. Robert was up by now and making his breakfast in the kitchen.
"Hello Robert." She said.
"So, you off now?" He said trying hard to hide the disappointment in his voice. He didn't want her to leave, not yet, but they couldn't just blow off work. He also felt a bit awkward. He didn't know how to interrupt that kiss last night. Was it the drink? A thank you? Or a burst of feeling?
"Yeah. Thank you for last night, it was great." She said trying to get Ella's coat on, but she was struggling, like she didn't want to leave, just like Elizabeth.
"Don't mention it. I'm glad you decided to come to Italy with me, Lizzie." He took Ella's coat off Elizabeth and put it on Ella, without Ella struggling. When she was finally ready to leave, they all walked to the door.
"Robert, I don't want you to think that I'm trying to get out of here quickly. It's just I have to get Ella ready for the baby sitter and..."
"It's OK Lizzie. I knew you had to get up and out early. I didn't take it the wrong way." He reassured her. He opened the door for her.
"I'll see you at work Robert." And she gently kissed him on the cheek and left the house. Robert knew that kiss was a thank you, so that meant the one last night was feelings. He watched her as she drive down the road and out of sight.