Chapter 8

Disclaimer: By this point in the story, you should have grasped (both from my use of language and plot) that I do not own Ella Enchanted. If you haven't I AM NOT GCL AND DO NOT OWN ELLA ENCHANTED!

Thank you andreaaft! It makes me feel really good when people like my stories. And no, I do not know Spanish, but I've always wanted to learn.  Do you know Spanish?

Oh, and to everyone else, I've put up a new story in the Jane Austen section. It's called Techno, and it's a modern version of Pride and Prejudice, with other characters popping in. But the thing is, it's done entirely in email and msn convos etc. Please read and review!

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El paced back and forth in the gardens. I like Jerrold, but not in that way…I like Jerrold, but not in that way… I like Jerrold in that way…

"Argh!" She threw her hands up in disgust. "I am completely alright. Completely!"

"Ahem." El spun around.

"Peter!" He bowed, looking more handsome than ever.

"I was wondering if you would like to go for a ride with me. Horseback." El was about to say no, when she realised that she really did need the distraction.

"Certainly. I will just obtain my mother's permission."

"And I will wait here."

El curtseyed, and left the gardens. She headed up the front stairs and opened the door.

"Jerrold!" They were face to face; she simply could not avoid him. "I mean…er…Prince Jerrold…how do you do?" She dropped another curtsey. He seized her wrists.

"El. I've been looking all over for you…may I speak to you. In private. Now." El looked at him. All the hurt she had been feeling since last night came rushing back instantly.

"I'm sorry, Prince, but Peter is taking me out for a ride." Her words were spoken humbly. For a second, she thought she saw a flicker of anger in Jerrold's eyes, then it was gone.

"I beg your pardon…I thought you were not otherwise engaged…"

"I was not…until Peter asked me to ride with him…not five minutes ago…I was about to obtain permission from Lady, until I saw you…" She said pointedly.

"Lady?"

"My mother." Blunder…blunder…blunder…

"I see." His expression was inscrutable.

"I should not leave Peter waiting for long…" What more of a hint does he need?

Still Jerrold refused to move.

"Please stand aside, your highness…I wish to pass…"

"I beg your pardon."

Still he refused to move.

"Please move."

Motionless.

"Fine!" She whirled around, and made as if to stumble down the stairs and trip.

"Are you okay?" Jerrold rushed out to steady her. She flung his arm away.

"Thank you…" She said as she neatly sidestepped him and squeezed through the door, disappearing before he could react.

Even at a time like this she still retains her sense of humour…

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"This place is beautiful!"

"Not as beautiful as you are." El blushed, as Peter grinned suavely. He took her hand, and she felt a tingle run down her spine. Not as strong as when Jerrold…STOP THINKING ABOUT HIM!

"It's been a great day Peter. Thank you." She stood up and dusted her skirt off. Peter stood up as well.

Their eyes met.

Peter leant in and kissed her on the cheek. Then, he helped her onto her horse. El smiled and urged her mare to go faster.

Peter had kissed her.

And she had felt nothing.

A/N: I'm sorry! It was short!