Looking down the snow filled road, he anticipated seeing her. He wished he had some flowers to bring her. It wasn't like he could afford it anyway. Maybe if it were spring he could pick the flowers. But Felicity deserved flowers all year long. Then, that all-too-familiar feeling of not being good enough for her started to wave over him. He set those feelings aside, and kept repeating to himself what Sara had said to him some time ago. "Gus, she worships the ground you walk on." Though she didn't seem like it when Arthur was around, but he kept repeating it to himself anyway to boost his confidence. He imagined he looked crazy talking to himself, and thankful that no one was around to see him. He quickened his step once he saw the King house. He wanted to see her before he went to work.
Suddenly, he noticed a person, looking out into the horizon, apparently deep in thought. It didn't take him long to figure out it was Felicity. He could recognize her anywhere. His heart skipped a beat as he started to walk towards her. His hands started to get sweaty and he had difficulty breathing. Even in this crisp cold weather, he was starting to sweat. He hated feeling like this, but somehow it felt good. He didn't want to startle her, so he made a little noise to with his boots by crunching some snow, to make her aware of his presence. "You look deep in thought," he said.
Felicity half turned and gave him that smile that always melted his heart. "Hello Gus." She then turned back around. Gus thought she looked like a beautiful portrait with the plaid hat on. He always liked that hat on her, especially the way the hat set her hair that seemed to frame her face.
"I was just on my way to your house." He went beside her so he could see her face. He couldn't help but stare at her. She was so beautiful.
Those freckles sprinkled across her face were like gold dust to him. Her round eyes were like windows to her soul. How can I make her mine? he asked himself. His heart ached for her. Gus took a deep breath to calm himself down. "It's a beautiful day isn't it?" said Felicity.
"Beautiful," He said without taking his eyes off her.
Felicity could feel Gus staring at her, and she blushed. She looked down and started to wring her hands, thinking this might slow her rapidly beating heart down. "Felicity?"
"Yes?" she asked. She looked at his eyes and saw how mush he loved her. Gus always had expressive eyes. It wasn't new to her how he felt. He had expressed his feelings before.
"What were you thinking about?"
"The future," she said.
Gus and Arthur had been constantly pursuing her in the past days. Gus’ sudden proposal, and their fist fight in the barn, that had led her to think about her future. "I still can't believe you proposed to me."
"The offer still stands you know."
Felicity smiled up at him. It made her feel good that Gus loved her so much. Someday. She thought, someday she would return that love. She touched his face, and felt electricity run through her arm. Gus closed his eyes trying to contain his bursting heart. The feel of her hand on his face drove him crazy. Again, he took another deep breath.
"I know you still want to marry me. We've agreed to wait two years, right?"
"Anything you want," he whispered.
"Well, I'd better go back home before somebody sees us out here. Especially Arthur."
As Felicity turned to leave, mixed feelings of anger and jealousy were starting to overcome him. He took her elbow to stop her. Seeing the change of his facial expression, Felicity tried to console him. "I don't want to hurt him much more than I already have. I picked you, didn't I? We could at least consider his feelings."
"Beggin' your pardon Felicity, but I don't really care if Arthur sees us!" he said rather harshly. Seeing the hurt in Felicity's face because of his harsh tone, suddenly made him apologize. "I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me," he added while rubbing her elbow.
"It's alright. I understand what you're feeling. It's just that--"
"No need to explain. I kinda know what you mean." Felicity smiled and he took it as his reward for apologizing.
"I guess I best be on my way then, might be late for work," said Gus, smiling at her.
"Don't work too hard," said Felicity, waving her hand.
* * * * * * * * * *"Mother! Mother!" yelled Felix as he ran into the backdoor, almost knocking over one of great Aunt Eliza's precious antique plates.
"Felix King! Calm down! What is it?" asked Janet in between dishes.
"A Baron is coming to White Sands with his daughter! Think of the tips I could make if I take extra car of him!" said Felix while slowly rubbing his hands together as if feeling the money in his hands, staring at open space.
Janet smiled and shook her head. This boy of hers had always had some "get rich quick" scheme. But at least now, he was working for it. He'd learn the true value of money by working hard for it. But his craving for money hadn't subsided. "What's all the commotion about?" asked Felicity as she took off her coat and hat, looking a little flushed because of the cold winter air.
"Looks like we're going to have royalty at the White Sands," said Janet, wiping her hands with the washcloth. Finished at last, she thought.
"There's going to be a ball in honor of the Baron and his daughter," said Felix excitedly. "I'm sure if I waited on him hand and foot, he'll give me a big tip!"
"I suppose Gus will be asking you to go to the ball with him?" asked Janet, eyeing her daughter for a reaction. Janet was relieved that all the commotion from the days before was over. Her baby was growing up, but she was glad she could still keep her for a couple of more years. She poured a cup of tea for her and her children.
"Maybe mother. He might be working," she said as she sat down and took the tea her mother handed to her. She slowly sipped the hot tea and relished the way the warm liquid went through her body. Just what she needed to warm her down.
"Oooh Gus! I love you! Mwah! Mwah!" teased Felix. Felicity glared at him.
"What if Arthur asked you dear?" asked Janet, secretly surprised that Felicity didn't react to the teasing. Back then, she would've run after him wanting to strangle his neck after being teased like that. Maybe all the attention her daughter wais getting from two young men matured her a bit.
"Oh, Arthur already left. He decided to leave early," Felix said matter-of-factly. "Do we have any cookies?" He turned to his mother.
"In the cupboard dear."
Felix went to the cupboard and devoured cookies as if it were his last meal. Felicity remained quiet. She was sad to hear Arthur had left. It was for the better, she thought. She had quite a difficult time choosing over the two boys. Gus was willing to court her like any beau should, and he adored her. But Arthur she would never forget. She sighed and took another sip of her tea.
* * * * * * * * * *"Can I help you with that?"
Gus was struggling to carry four big luggage with his two hands in the White Sands lobby when he heard the voice. He had never heard a sweeter voice. It sounded like music. He turned around and saw a sophisticated, well-dressed young lady. From the looks of her, she looked filthy rich.
"No, thank you miss. This is m'job! Wouldn't be right if you helped me out. You're a guest," he said, smiling. He turned his attention back to the luggage, wondering if he'd fall off the stairs while carrying them.
"Alright then. At least I asked. My name is Lady Arabelle Reade."
"Gus Pike." He let go of the luggage long enough to extend his hand. "How do you do?"
"Hello Gus Pike. I'm looking forward to seeing more of this island. Hope you can show me around sometime." She took his offered hand, and gently shook it.
As she walked away, she swayed her hips flirtatiously, looking over her shoulder at him. Gus stared at her, wondering how she could look so striking when she was not very beautiful. She had a beautiful voice though. It reminded him of a sound of a harp, so soft and alluring, a kind of voice that could calm you down when you?re in a panic and--
"Gus?"
He almost jumped in surprise. He didn't realize Felicity was standing right beside him. "Felicity! I didn't know you were here!" he said, laughing nervously while gathering his wits together.
"Obviously. Who were you staring at?" She looked in the direction he was looking.
"Lady Reade," Gus said as if in awe.
Felicity looked at him disturbingly. She had never seen Gus like this before. She had never heard that tone in his voice before. Well, with another woman, that is. "Well, I came to give Chef Pierre his order of maple syrup. I thought I might stop by to say hello. You're obviously busy," she said icily, while rolling her eyes.
"Not very busy." He ignored her tone. "I just got to get this here luggage to the Baron's room and I'll be done for the day. I could walk you home if you like," he added, Lady Reade completely forgotten.
She wanted to walk out and teach Gus a lesson, but she didn't own Gus. He could look at any girl he wanted. If she wanted him all to herself, she should have just accepted his proposal. She sighed. "I'll wait here for you," she said, turning to sit obediently at one of the chairs in the lobby.
* * * * * * * * * *They walked to the King Farm together. Felicity took Gus' offered arm and they strolled. Both were secretly thankful for the cold weather, giving them a reason to cuddle closer than usual. There was no hurry to get home. They enjoyed the time alone. They rarely got it. "I suppose you?ll be working on the night of the ball," said Felicity.
"Yup. Mister Tremayne wants everything to be perfect."
"Sally Potts and all the other girls are going. They all have escorts."
"I wish I could take ya, but the ball needs all the staff to be there. So...has Arthur asked you yet?" he asked, sadly looking down. He could ask her not to go but that wouldn't be right, although he couldn't bear seeing them at the ball together dancing and not being able to do anything about it.
"Arthur left. He's gone back to school," she said as matter-of-factly as she could.
Gus tried very hard not to jump for joy, but he allowed himself a smile. Felicity saw him smile and squeezed his arm in a playful gesture. "Now Gus Pike, don't be mean. I can't believe you're happy to see someone leave!" she said teasingly.
"Can you really blame me though?" he said, looking into her eyes.
Felicity blushed and looked down smiling. For the rest of the walk, they remained silent, enjoying each other's company and closeness until they arrived at King Farm. The question of whether Felicity was to attend the ball remained unmentioned. Felicity let go of his arm and turned to face him as she saw the light in their house. "Would you like to come in for some tea?"
"No thank you, I best be goin' home. It's gettin' late," he said, feeling the emptiness in his side when she let go of his arm. I could get so attached to her so easily, he thought.
"Goodnight Gus."
"G'night."
* * * * * * * * * *In her room later that night, Felicity couldn't sleep. She put the covers over her head, then turned and put the pillow over her head. She tossed and turned until she finally gave up. She sat up on her bed and began to think. How can Gus look at Lady Reade like that...only a few days after he had told her he loved her? Maybe he didn't really love her. Maybe it was pure male ego that drove him to his proposal. Maybe he hated Arthur so much that it was just for the sake of competition. She sighed and rested her head on her pillow. She knew deep down in her heart all this wasn't true. She knew Gus loved her with all his heart. She didn't know how, but just knew. It looked like the tables have been turned. It was her turn to fight for Gus. Felicity sighed, then saw an image of her and Lady Reade fighting in the barn. She completely dismissed the thought. That wouldn't be proper at all! It wasn't like Gus and she were good friends or anything. Her head was starting to ache. She rubbed her temples with her fingers, while closing her eyes. She decided to sleep before her head got any worse.
* * * * * * * * * *"Good morning, Mr. Pike," said Lady Reade walking towards Gus while swaying her hips.
"G'mornin', Miss reade. How are you today?" asked Gus while putting dishes and utensils on the tables. He was wearing his usual uniform which he always looked good in. Long-sleeved white shirt and black vest, matched with black plants.
"Bored. I want to see the sights, but Father is busy and no one can take me." She batted her eyelashes at Gus. She would get him to take her. Anyway, her eyelashes never failed her before.
"I'd take ya myself, Ms. Reade, if I didn't have to work," said Gus good-naturedly while straightening the forks and spoons so they were in a straight line.
"Well! That could be arranged!" she said excitedly, silently clapping her hands. She started to look around for Mr. Tremayne.
"Huh? But-uh I have all this work I--" He pointed at the dishes.
"Nonsense Mr. Pike, We are the most important guests here, whatever we say--goes! Oh Mr. Tremayne!" she said, waving for the owner to approach her.
* * * * * * * * * *"Good Morning, Mother," Felicity said as she climbed down the stairs. She smelled toasted bread and eggs her mother was cooking. She smiled.
"Morning, Felicity," Janet looked at her daughter and thought she looked especially pretty today. She was wearing a light blue dress that seem to bring out the color in her cheeks. The front part of her hair was pulled up and was tied with a simple blue ribbon. Simple, but beautiful, she thought. Janet put some eggs on a plate for Felicity, and yelled for her other two children. "Felix! Wake up son, or you'll be late for work! Cecily! Breakfast!"
"Sara and I are going up to the lighthouse. I promised Gus I'd do a little housekeeping for him. I'll be back this afternoon," Felicity said as she sat down and helped herself to some toast and tea.
Janet thought her daughter looked a little overdressed to be cleaning house, but decided not to mention it. She knew why her daughter was dressed like that. "Very well dear. Bring these cookies with you." She handed her a plate full of cookies. "I baked an extra batch, I'm sure Gus would like to have them." Janet sat down to and poured herself a cup of tea and took some eggs.
"Thank you, Mother. I'm sure he will."
She placed the plate of cookies on the table. There was a knock on the door and they both turned to see who it was. It was Sara. "Hi, Aunt Janet," said Sara, smiling at her aunt.
"Good Morning, dear."
"I'll be done in a minute, Sara," said Felicity, eating the last piece of toast.
* * * * * * * * * *"It's awful nice of you to do this for Gus, Felicity," said Sara Stanley while putting some of Gus's books away. She liked Gus very much, and didn?t mind helping her cousin tidy up in his place.
"I thought I'd do him a favor, after what he's been through with me these past few days." Felicity was dusting the closets and tables like a professional. Being trained by Janet King since she was a little girl, she knew how keep house. Some Avonlea folks even said that she was better than her mother. Felicity took pride in this, but of course, she looked up to her mother and didn't think that she could ever measure up to her.
"Well, at least everything?s back to normal. You really made me mad when you were actually enjoying Gus and Arthur's attention," Sara said as she put some of Gus's clothes in a neat pile.
"I know, but I've come to my...senses..."
Sara wondered why Felicity's words faded. She turned and saw her cousin looking out the window towards the shore, her face pale. Sarah gasped at what she saw: Gus and another woman kissing!
* * * * * * * * * *"M-m-miss Reade, I don't think that--" said Gus, trying to regain his composure.
"Hush Gus Pike, You are the most handsome, good-natured man I've ever met. All those uptight barons and dukes that I've met doesn?t compare to you!" Lady Reade said while clinging to him. She kissed him again, and this time Gus pushed her away.
"I'm sorry Miss Reade, but I'm already spoken for! This is wrong!"
"Surely you can't be serious? I don't see a ring on your finger, except for this ruby ring, which is highly inappropriate for a wedding ring," she said accusingly, taking his hand.
Gus snatched his hand away from the Lady. He ignored the insult she said about his ring. "I didn't mean that I'm married, but there's this girl..I don?t want to ruin my chances with her in case someone sees us here." He turned to leave. It was a mistake bringing her to the shores, he thought. It was a mistake going with her at all!
"Where are you going? You can't leave me here! You are responsible for me. You have to take me back to the hotel!" yelled Lady Reade after Gus. She picked up her skirts and started to jog towards him.
Gus stopped walking, looked up, and sighed exasperated. Mr. Tremayne would have his head if he came back without her, not to mention the Baron! "Alright then. Let's go. But no more funny business!" he said wagging his finger at her.
She smiled sheepishly and took his arm, as they walked back to the hotel.
* * * * * * * * * *Felicity rushed up to her room and slammed the door. She immediately started to open her closet and drawers, ransacking whatever was inside, and slamming them shut apparently looking for something. Sara crept into the room and watched her, concerned for her cousin. "I don't care if I never see him again! I hate him, Sara!" she said while going through the boxes in her closet roughly.
"There must be an explanation for all of this. It's not like Gus," said Sara, standing still in the corner not wanting to get into Felicity's way.
"Sara, you and I saw him. You know it was Gus!" She slammed her closet door after going through her clothes. She went to her drawers again.
"Felicity, calm down. Gus loves you; he wouldn't do anything to jeopardize his chances with you. And what are you looking for?" asked Sara finally, who couldn't contain her curiosity any longer.
Felicity sat on her bed exasperated. "I don't know!" said Felicity.
She put her hands on her face and started to cry bitterly. Sara walked slowly to Felicity, sat next to her and put her arm around her. "I'll talk to Gus, I'll sort this out," said Sara.
"No! I don't want to know!" Felicity pushed Sara's arm away. "It's none of my business anyway. It's not like he's my beau!"
"You and I both know that you and Gus have this...understanding...," Sara said, lifting her fingers to mimic quotes.
"Well, now we have a misunderstanding!" Felicity said between sobs.
Sara rolled her eyes. Felicity could be so stubborn. Although she did understand felicity and the hurt she must be going through. She reached in for her handkerchief and handed it to her cousin. Felicity took it, and started to wipe her tears. "He wouldn't propose to you if he didn't love you, I'm sure he can explain." She rubbed Felicity's back to console her.
"Whose side are you on, Sara? You saw him yourself, I don't know what proof you need," she said burying her face into Sara's handkerchief.
Felicity's sobs sobered into small whimpers. She was feeling terrible pain. This was when she knew that she loved Gus. She has always loved him. But the feeling of betrayal engulfed her. "You can tell Gus that I never want to see him again. He better not show his face at this house or...I'll have Digger bite him to a bloody pulp!"
Sara smothered a smile. Digger could never hurt anyone, especially Gus. Digger could probably lick him to death. She felt guilty thinking these thoughts when her cousin is in pain. She'd have a word with Gus.
* * * * * * * * * *Later that evening, Sara went to the lighthouse. She knew Gus would be home from work already. A quick visit, she thought. Aunt Hetty would be wondering where she was. She knocked rapidly. Gus answered the door wearing a long-sleeved shirt, pants and suspenders--his usual attire after he arrived home from work. "Sara, what are you doing here this time of night?" asked Gus perplexed.
"We have to talk," was Sara's serious answer as she walked in. The place wasn't very warm, but it was good enough for Gus, considering his meager options.
"What's wrong?" he asked, handing her a stool to sit on. He wondered why Sarah wasn?t smiling. She usually smiled when she saw him.
"Felicity saw you," she said as she sat on the stool.
"Saw me where?" Gus was still confused.
"By the shore." His face turned serious. Sara looked into his eyes. He looked away. Guilty, she thought. "Gus, how could you?" she said as she got up. "Felicity's bawling her eyes out."
"It wasn't my fault, Sara. She kissed me!" Gus sat on the stool he offered Sara and rubbed his face with his hands as if to erase what he had done.
"Who was that woman anyway?" asked Sara with contempt in her voice.
"The Baron's daughter." His elbows were resting on his knees, his back hunched, and hands were in a fist. Sara could see he was squeezing his knuckles because they were turning white. Walking beside him, she tried to console him.
"Felicity's awfully mad at you, Gus. You have to at least apologize."
"I'll go talk to her right now!" Gus rushed to the door and put on his coat. He was on his way out when Sara grabbed him.
"Not right now, Gus! It's too late. You don't want to wake up Aunt Janet and Uncle Alec do you?" she said, holding onto his coat. She wasn't about to let him cause a commotion at this time of night. She knew what happened the last time he went there with a letter for Felicity. Uncle Alec wasn't very happy.
"No, I guess not," Gus said sadly, retreating. "I'll talk to her first thing in the morning. You have to understand, Sara, she just kissed me from out of the blue! I pushed her away; I promise!" explained Gus while holding Sarah by her shoulders.
"You don't have to tell me, Gus. Tell Felicity."
"I will, thanks Sara." He let go of her, and let her out the door. I've got a lot of explaining to do, he thought.
* * * * * * * * * *Felicity was up before anyone. She couldn't sleep. Her eyes were puffy from the night of crying before. She got dressed and finally decided to go downstairs and make breakfast. Her mother would be pleased to be relieved of the chore. She had plenty of time yet, she thought. She was pouring herself a cup of tea when there was a knock at the door. Now who could that be this early in the morning? she thought. She opened the door. When she saw who it was she was about to slam it closed.
"Felicity, wait!" said Gus while stopping the door with his hand. Like Felicity, he couldn't sleep after Sara had left. He has been waiting outside their house for an hour, waiting for her to wake up. He decided to knock and take a chance on whoever was in the kitchen when he saw a light.
"I don't want to talk to you Gus Pike! And would you be so kind not to make any noise. My parents are still asleep," she whispered hoarsely.
Gus saw here swollen eyes and it melted his heart. He knew that she had been crying all night. He wanted to kick himself for all this pain he is causing her. "Felicity, please listen, I know you saw me...us. But you have to understand she just kissed me from out of the blue! I pushed her away, I promise! She means nothing to me!" Gus had been practicing what to say to her, but all of his practiced speech was forgotten once he was face to face with her.
"You didn't seem to be putting up a struggle when I saw you!" argued Felicity, trying desperately to close the door without slamming it on Gus's hands and creating a scene.
"I swear to all that is decent that I pushed her away. Even ask her, Felicity." pleaded Gus. He grabbed her shoulders, thinking desperately what to say next. How could he ask for forgiveness? Felicity turned to walk away but Gus grabbed her by the arm. "Please listen to me. I can't stand you being mad at me. Please Felicity." All he could say was please. He cursed himself for forgetting his speech. It was much better than all this begging nonsense he was muttering.
She looked at him, she could see his eyes getting watery. Felicity was taken back. She had never seen Gus cry before. It melted her heart completely. "Gus...I...please don't cry," she said as she wiped his tears with her hands.
Gus took her hand and kissed it. It felt so good to be close to her again, to hold her like this. "Please forgive me, Felicity," Gus pleaded.
Felicity was surprised that the strongest person she knows is quivering for her to forgive him. "I forgive you Gus, please stop crying." She held his face in her hands.
With those words ringing in his ears, he looked into her eyes. He kissed her softly that made her shiver. This was all he wanted: to be with her. Whatever happened he would marry this girl. He promised himself that. He opened his eyes and stared at her. She smiled. "I'd better go back inside, Mother and Father might be awake now."
She started to turn but Gus didn't want to let go of her, but he made himself do it. He sighed. He loved her so much it hurt. "I'd better be off to work. Can I call on you later?" he asked, taking her hand.
Felicity's hand was shivering. Not with coldness, but with what just happened. "Yes. I'll be expecting you." She heard someone coming down the stairs. She looked in that direction and turned to Gus "You'd better go. That might be Mother."
"See you later," he said as he let go of her hand and pinched her cheek softly. Felicity closed the door silently behind him. She rushed to the kitchen table to her now cold cup of tea, and quickly sat down. In perfect timing, her Mother was walking down the stairs.
* * * * * * * * * *Gus arrived at White Sands in a very good mood. He was greeting everybody a "Good mornin'!" and was all smiles. We was putting his coat away and getting ready to work when Chef Pierre approached him, holding a spatula in his hand. "Good mood, Monsieur Pike?" asked the chef smiling at him. When Chef Pierre first arrived in Avonlea, nobody really took a liking to him. But now, like Gus, he was accepted as one of their own.
"Very good mood, Chef Pierre!" He started to roll up his sleeves to start washing the dirty dishes, when Chef Pierre chuckled softly. Gus looked at him, confused. "Somethin' the matter?"
"Everybody is talking about your new 'girlfriend,' Monsieur Pike," he said teasingly.
"I beg your pardon?" Is he talking about Felicity? he thought.
Before Pierre could answer, Mr. Tremayne walked in the kitchen and looked for Gus. "Master Pike, may I see you in my office for a moment?" asked the owner rather stiffly. Everyone in the kitchen was quiet.
Gus started to walk towards Mr. Tremayne and felt like he was walking down the plank of a ship. Everyone's eyes were on him. Mr. Tremayne turned around and Gus followed. After they left Chef Pierre shouted to everyone to go back to work.
* * * * * * * * * *"Is there a problem sir?" asked Gus. He was standing in front of the owner's table. Tremayne sat on his table, his elbows rested horizontally.
"Master Pike, we have strict rules in this establishment. Rules that you are very familiar with."
"Yes sir."
"And one of those rules is that staff members are not to associate with guests without permission. Now I know that I gave you permission to take Lady Reade out yesterday, but I did not mean for you to get 'involved' with her!"
Gus was surprised at what he was hearing. His eyes were wide open, not knowing what to say. Mr. Tremayne stood up and slowly walked towards Gus. "Now, I'm not dictating you in what to do with matters of the heart," he said in a paternal tone. "But I must insist that you stay away from Lady Reade as long as she is a guest at this hotel."
Gus smiled. This could work out for him after all. "You can count on me, Mr. Tremayne. I will stay as far away from Lady Reade as possible!" beamed Gus.
Mr. Tremayne smiled. He was pleased in how he handled the situation. He put his hand on Gus's shoulder. "Very good, Master Pike. You can go back to work now."
* * * * * * * * * *Lady Reade slowly walked down the stairs of the White Sands towards the lobby. The ball that was to be put in their honor was only a couple of more days away. She still didn?t have an escort. Of course she could have anybody she wanted, but for some reason her charm doesn't seem to work for a certain Mr. Pike. When she arrived at the dining area, she looked for her father, but not before looking at the waiters to see if her dear Mr. Pike was around. Her father beckoned her to come over. "Good morning, Father," she said as she kissed him on the cheek.
"Hello, Daughter. Did you have a good night's sleep?" he inquired while buttering a piece of toast.
"It was quite adequate," she said as she slid into a chair across him. She reached for the plate of bagels that was on the table and started to put some cream cheese on it. Everything she needed seemed to be served already, but she wanted to see Gus so she decided to order some coffee. To her dismay, another waiter approached her when she called out. "Father? Have you laid out your suit for the ball? It's in two days, you know," she said before biting into her bagel.
"Yes. I had my manservant lay it out today." He took the newspaper on the table and started to read it, completely ignoring her daughter for the rest of the meal.
Lady Reade took this as a chance to ask the waiter where Gus was. She beckoned him to over and whispered to him. "Where is Mr. Pike today? He's not at work?" she inquired, looking at her father to be safe.
"He's assigned to the kitchen today, madam," said the waiter. It's true, he thought! Gus and this girl are having an affair!
"Thank you, kind sir." She would look for him later, when her father would be indisposed.
* * * * * * * * * *The waiter that Lady Reade asked went to look for Gus right after his shift. He found him loading up the carriage, getting ready to go to the general store. He ran to him, waving his arm. "Gus! Lady Reade is looking for you. She asked me where you were," he said out of breath.
"What did you tell her?" Gus asked, holding the reigns of the horse, getting ready to climb in.
"I told her you were in the kitchen. You lucky devil you!" He punched Gus playfully in the arm while laughing.
"Not as lucky as you think. I'd better leave before she does find me," he said as he clicked for the horse to move on.
The waiter started to scratch his head. How could he feel unlucky when a rich girl takes a liking to him? Gus certainly is an oddball, he thought. Shrugging his shoulders, he walked back into the hotel.
* * * * * * * * * *"I'm going to get Every Girl's Calendar, Sara," said Felicity while picking up the magazine. She had been in a very nice mood today, and feeling like she was walking on air. She and Sara were in the General Store to get some reading materials.
"Not again, Felicity. Haven't you learned your lesson yet? Those things don't help you," Sara said rolling her eyes. She knew that she and Gus were okay now. She could tell by the way Felicity had been acting.
"I know, but I'm feeling playful. It wouldn't hurt if I don't take it seriously," Felicity said while flipping through the pages.
"Don't take what seriously?"
Felicity turned and saw Gus behind her smiling. She blushed a deep shade of red and hid the magazine behind her. "Nothing. What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be at work?" she said while desperately trying to hand Sara the magazine behind her. Sara finally took the hint and grabbed it.
"I got a delivery. Aren't you happy to see me?" he said winking at her. Felicity blushed again. Of course she was happy to see him, but she would die before she would admit it to anyone. "By the way, I was wondering. Are you going to the ball?" he asked.
"I thought you were working."
"Yeah, but I'm sure Mr. Tremayne would let me dance at least once. One special dance," he said while directly looking at Felicity as if nobody else was around.
Felicity smiled. "Then maybe I'll be going to the ball," said Felicity, her eyes twinkling.
"I guess I'll see you there then. Well, I got to go back to the White Sands. I?ll see you this afternoon. Bye Sara," said Gus as he turned to leave.
"Bye," The two girls said in unison.
* * * * * * * * * *As Gus pulled the carriage into a halt, he saw Lady Reade patiently waiting by the kitchen door. He looked around to see if there was anyone or anywhere he could go to. He didn't notice her approaching and was kind of surprised when someone suddenly spoke. "Gus Pike! Where have you been?" asked Lady Reade, agitated.
"I was making a delivery. Anything I can do for you?" he asked coldly as he jumped off the buggy.
"Yes, would you be so kind to show me around--"
"Whoa, now wait a minute Lady Reade, I was given specific instructions to stay away from you. It's against hotel policy for a guest and staff to be socializing," he said pleased. He started to unload his deliveries. He wanted to be doing something productive just in case somebody saw them talking.
"What? Whoever gave you such a preposterous idea?" she demanded.
"Mr. Tremayne," he said smiling as he unloaded one heavy basket after another.
Lady Reade's eyes slit into two lines. She looked ready to explode in anger. Her breathing was getting heavier by the minute. She turned away and started to walk quickly back to the hotel. Gus watched her leave and smiled. That ought to get rid of her, he thought. He didn't really want to deal with her. He wanted to focus all his attention on Felicity when he would call on her that afternoon. Thinking about Felicity got him excited. He quickly unloaded the last basket in the carriage. He wanted to get all his work done so he could go.
* * * * * * * * * *"Mother, is this dress too green?" asked Felicity anxiously, biting her lower lip. She had been parading in the kitchen with different outfits asking for her mother's opinion.
Janet looked up in annoyance and sighed. "It's fine, Felicity, like the other four dresses you had on before," Janet said while sitting on the kitchen table, feeding Daniel.
"But I just want to look perfect. Every day Gus sees rich, beautiful, well-dressed women at the hotel. I just want to...you know?" said Felicity sadly as she slowly sat down in front of her mother.
Janet looked at her daughter disturbingly. She had never seen Felicity insecure before. She had always been confident and headstrong. She wondered what caused her to change so suddenly. "Is something the matter, dear? I'm sure Gus will like whatever you wear," she said as she gave Daniel some mashed carrots.
"I know, Mother, it's just that--"
There was a knock on the door. Felicity's wide eyes looked at her mother. Janet got up to get the door, when Felicity suddenly blocked her way, her arms stretched on each side. "I'm not ready! Look at this dress I have on, it makes me look fat!" complained Felicity as she looked down on the dress.
Janet held her daughter?s shoulders, and looked into her eyes. "You look beautiful Felicity. I'm sure Gus will think so too," she comforted.
Felicity felt good and smiled. Mothers are great, she thought. "I'll get the door, Mother," she said, her eyes sparkling.
She walked to the door with as much confidence as any girl could have: chin up and back straight, with a winning smile. "Hello, Gus. Please come in," she beamed.
* * * * * * * * * *The night of the ball came, and the White Sands had never looked so beautiful. New curtains of blue and gold were put up just for the occasion. The carpets were washed and were spotless. The food looked absolutely delicious. Different arrays of food complimented each other in color and taste. Chef Pierre had outdone himself.
The orchestra was playing beautiful music people were waltzing to. Everyone was having a good time and dancing. Gus and the other staff, including Felix, were on the sidelines waiting like soldiers for any guests that needed attending to. Gus managed to stand in the middle of Felix and another waiter, so Lady Reade wouldn't have the chance to suddenly grab him. For the first time in his life, he wished he wouldn't see Felicity. She said she wasn't sure yet if she would come. Gus was working after all, and she didn't care to dance with anyone else. Still, he didn't want her to show just in case Lady Reade decided to act up. Gus felt he was getting lucky when he hadn't seen Lady Reade for half the night. Well, his luck was about to change. Lady Reade was slowly approaching him, her cat-like eyes locked into his figure. She was smiling devilishly at him. He wanted to bolt out of the room, but he didn't want to cause a scene, so he stiffly inched closer to Felix. He felt a chill down his spine when she was close. Felix was looking at him confused.
"Well Mr. Pike, would it be too much if I asked for the night's last dance?" she asked without taking her eyes off him. She was still smiling, the corners of her mouth twitching.
"I, uh, don't think I can, Lady Reade. I'm on duty," said Gus stiffly. He focused his eyes on a bowl of chocolate pudding at the buffet table. He would not look at her. He just stood still by the wall, his hands behind his back.
"Surely you wouldn?t begrudge a lady one dance? After all, we are leaving tomorrow. You would be rid of me forever," she said as she was sliding her hand on his arm.
Throughout this conversation, Felix was looking from one person to the other, his eyes wide. Gus looked at him as a signal for help. Felix thought that the she made a good point. One dance wouldn't hurt, and she would be gone forever tomorrow. Finally, after a moment of silence, Felix spoke up. "I think you should go ahead and dance with our guest. Gus, one dance wouldn't hurt. I'm sure Mr. Tremayne wouldn't mind. She was the one that asked you anyway," Felix said politely.
Gus swallowed hard, and reluctantly offered his arm for one dance. Two against one, he thought. Traitor! "One dance," Gus said, holding up his pointer finger.
* * * * * * * * * *Felicity hurried into the White Sands lobby. She was barely in the door, but was already taking off her coat. She hoped she would make it. The ball was almost over, and after careful thought, she figured one dance with Gus is better than none. She handed her coat to a waiting attendant, and started to look for Gus. She was dumbstruck at what she saw. It was her again--the same Lady she saw with Gus at the shore. She stood at the doorway frozen stiff, her eyes wide.
Felix saw his sister standing by the doorway like a deer on headlights. He was about to chuckle at the way she looked when he saw who she was looking at. He quickly made his way to through the crowd, gently swaying people out of his way while whispering Felicity's name. She, in return, was completely oblivious of him. In a few moments he approached her side. "Felicity?" he said while putting his hand on her shoulder, "it's not what you think."
"It's not?" she asked in a voice that wasn't hers.
"Gus was forced to dance with her. He practically had no choice. She's one of the guests of honor. To refuse dancing with her would be an insult. Even I know that." Felicity looked down. She didn't know what to do. "You're my sister, I asked him to dance with her. You don't think I'd do anything to hurt you, right?" explained Felix.
Felicity sighed and shook her head in annoyance. This from the person who has been my mortal enemy since we were born, she thought. She couldn't stand this anymore. She turned to leave. Felix could sense that his sister was very mad and signaled for Gus. He frantically waved his arms until he caught his attention. Gus cut his dance with the Lady short and hurried over to Felix. They whispered to each other, and Gus suddenly ran out. Lady Reade crossed her arms across her chest and frowned.
* * * * * * * * * *Felicity was almost out of breath, but she kept on running. She barely had on her coat, but she didn't care. She didn't know that tears were streaming down her face until she felt her face. She hated Gus for doing this to her again! She heard someone calling her name and ran faster. She didn?t dare look back. She just wanted to get out of this cold weather, go home and cry her eyes out. When suddenly, somebody pulled her arm! She almost slipped, but the hand kept her steady. She wasn't surprised to see it was Gus. Like her, he was out of breath and could barely talk. They both stood still and tried to catch each other's breath. There was a long moment of silence. Finally, Gus spoke. "You're a hard girl to run after," said Gus.
"I didn't want you to run after me!" She started to turn away, again, Gus grabbed her arm. Felicity snatched it away. "Will you please stop grabbing me!" she yelled.
Gus held his arms up in retreat. "Don't yell Felicity. People might think I'm doing something improper."
She turned her back at him. She didn't want him to see her tear-stricken face. Gus handed her a handkerchief. It's no use, she thought. He saw me cry. She wiped her face neatly, while Gus spoke, her back still turned. "I know what you must think of me. You must think that I'm the biggest liar this world could ever have. I don't expect you to understand or believe me right off, but I just wanted to explain that I had no choice," Gus said solemnly.
"I didn't see you struggling. I guess that's what you meant when you said you'd save one special dance," said Felicity sadly, looking down on the handkerchief.
Gus couldn't stand being far from her. He walked behind her and put his hand on her shoulder. He put his face in her hair and inhaled the vapors with his eyes closed. She smelled so good, he thought. His heart was aching from all the pain he was feeling. He just wanted to be close to her. Always. "I'm sorry," he whispered hoarsely.
Felicity turned around to face him. Her heart couldn't contain itself. He was so close to her, closer than he had ever been before. It felt so right. He was her weakness. No matter how mad she was, she couldn't stay mad at him for so long. They looked into each other's eyes. Gus took it as an opportunity to kiss her. He gently pressed his lips onto hers, while he held her face in his hands. His eyes were getting watery from all the emotion he was feeling. He stepped back, and held her hand. "Can I please ask you again?" he whispered. "Make my dreams come true and be my wife."
"I would love to be your wife, Gus. In the right time," said Felicity.
Gus entwined their hands together. He held her side of their hands near his heart, as they started to walk. She smiled at him, their eyes both full of love. "I'll wait, Felicity. I won't get in the way of your dreams," promised Gus.
"And I won't get in the way of yours," she promised in return.
Hearing those words, Gus secretly took it as an engagement. They walked home hand in hand, all the hurt of that evening forgotten, and unaware of what their future would bring.