Glimmers (4 page)

“If that’s how you feel, I’ll respect your decision, even if it is for the wrong reason.”

“Thanks for understanding. I wish things could’ve been different,” I say with false confidence.

“Just so you know I’m actually not put off that easily. We’ll see each other again. In fact, I believe we both have obligations to be in the main dining hall tomorrow evening.” He leans in closer, and I can feel his hushed words on my neck, “I’m not giving up easily. Like I said before, I believe you’re worth it.” After pulling back, he winks and disappears into the crowd.

I smile, realizing it’s too late for me. I’m hooked. Secretly, I hope he does pursue me, even if it is a bad idea. I watch him walk away and from the corner of my eye, I can see Lydia heading my way.

“Hell’s bells, it looks like our good time tonight was just cut short. I’ll go say good night to Bradley. Give me a sec, okay?” Lydia says, putting her arm around me.

~ * * * ~

Surely some good music will cure me. I turn on Lydia’s car radio and playing is a stupid sappy song. I turn it off. Heck, I wish I could pull the stinkin’ radio out of the dash and toss it out the window. Maybe that would make me feel better.

“Hey, I like that song,” Lydia says, while driving me home.

“Sorry, I just need a little peace and quiet.”

“Whatever you say.”

Neither of us speaks a word. And for that I am grateful.

All right, enough silence. I can’t stand it anymore!

“So, what’s the scoop on Mr. William Berringer, anyway?” I ask.

“You sure you want to know ‘bout him?” Lydia takes a sideways glance at me before spilling the beans. “Well, his family lives in the D.C. area . . . you know, the Capitol?”

“Really, I didn’t realize D.C. was the Capitol,” I say, and for good measure throw in, “Duh.”

“Look, I realize you’re mad, but don’t take it out on me! If you’re gonna act like a big baby about it, then you can go and find out about him from someone else.”

“Sorry, I don’t seem to have much control over what I’m sayin’ tonight.”

“Alrighty then, I guess since you just had your heart squished like a bug, I’ll let it go. So anyway, his father’s a big-wig politician, and his mother floats around high society circles, recruiting for her favorite charity of the moment. From what I gather, William goes to college. For the past few years, they’ve been comin’ here every summer. Only William doesn’t usually stick around very long. Guess he’d rather party it up with his frat buddies on campus or somethin’. Can’t say I blame him. I’d rather do the same.”

“Hmm, thanks for the lowdown,” I say and continue staring blankly out the car window.

“Anytime, sugar . . . and Delilah, you did the right thing.”

“That’s good to hear, because it sure doesn’t feel like I did.”

~ * * * ~

Early the next morning, sunlight blasts through the mini-blinds, and I am immediately reminded of my unfortunate encounter with William Berringer.

“Shoot,” I murmur, throwing back the covers. “I’m tougher than that. I can handle anything. This girl’s not gonna be kicked down that easily.”

I
will
get William Berringer out of my thoughts. I must remind myself of that over and over.

I wish I could slow down time or stop it all together. I’m not looking forward to working today. I don’t want to see William Berringer. The thought of it makes me sick.

~ * * * ~

Before I know it, I’m standing in the resort’s kitchen, waiting to greet my tables. I can’t pull my attention away from the door. On the other side sits William. I am so nervous I could scream!

“Let’s go, Delilah. Time’s up,” Lydia says and pats me on the shoulder.

The crew embarks on their usual rounds. I avoid looking in the direction of
his
table. I’m successful at this for about one whole minute. Gee, this is gonna be tougher than I thought. What if I just sneak a little peek? Surely, he won’t notice.

“This is a complete and utter nightmare,” I mumble to myself.

Maybe, I was too rash. Maybe, I shouldn’t have canceled my date with William; maybe, I should give him a chance and not worry about my silly old job. Besides, by not dating him, it makes my working conditions extremely uncomfortable.

What am I thinking? I can’t date him and that is that! I will pretend William isn’t here.

I can’t stand it anymore! I’ll briefly look his way. He probably won’t even notice. Casually, I peer over with a sideways glance. Wait just a minute! Who is that?

Some girl is laughing and edging her seat closer to William’s. Unfortunately, she’s pretty, too. Her hair looks annoyingly silky and smooth. Plus she’s blonde. What a complete nightmare! She’s the sort of girl who wears pearls and pink cardigan sets. I don’t like her, not one single bit.

What’s he up to, anyway? Well, he can’t have us both! How dare he toy with my emotions! I can’t believe I was so charmed by him and didn’t see him for what he truly was! “What a jerk,” I say through gritted teeth and turn my back.

Although I’m filled with (I’ll admit it) jealously, I’m determined to exhibit grace around my guests. I know I’ll get through this. In fact, I’ll just turn up my nose and pretend he doesn’t even exist.

I mean, I realize he doesn’t belong to me; far from it, but I can’t believe he’s sitting with another girl right in front of me! As far as I’m concerned, he’s the rudest person on the planet! I feel so stupid for ever falling for him in the first place. What was I thinking? I should have been able to see through his fake lines and lack of sincerity.

“Her name’s Camilla,” Lydia says quietly. “She comes here every summer with her family, only she doesn’t leave, she stays the entire time! She’s just itching to find herself a rich husband, and it looks like she’s got her claws into William!”

“William doesn’t owe me anything. He’s free to do what he wants. Besides, we only just met last night.”

“Right, you keep tellin’ yourself that. Well then, we best be gettin’ our butts back to work,” Lydia says eloquently.

~ * * * ~

After the room’s been cleared, Lydia and I sit at our favorite table. I can’t wait to rehash tonight’s turn of events. It feels great to complain about William and that tart he’s seeing. In fact, I’m gonna purge all my frustrations—release all my negative thoughts and emotions—cast them out into the far reaches of the universe!

“And for another thing, that little hussy he was with . . .” I’m midsentence, when I realize Lydia isn’t looking at me anymore. She’s staring over my shoulder and telling me to hush. “What’s the matter with you? He’s right behind me, isn’t he?”

Lydia nods and I slowly turn my head. How embarrassing. William’s standing right behind me. I wonder how much he just heard. You know what? Quite frankly, I don’t really care.

“Can we talk?” he asks.

Lydia leaps out of her seat, excusing herself with some lame reason to run into the kitchen. I’m left alone to fend for myself.

“May I sit with you?” he asks, but I don’t respond. In fact, I’m just gonna ignore him, all together. He takes the liberty of sitting right beside me. I’m not sure how much time passes, as I am picking at my nails. Finally, he speaks, “Did I do something to offend you? You’ve been acting like you’re mad at me.”

“I’m not sure what you’re talking about. I’m perfectly fine,” I say.

“Does that mean we’re still on for our date?”

“Not a sunflower’s chance in hell sweetheart.” I’m not sure where I got that one, but it feels pretty darn good saying it. “You’ll just have to ask little Ms. Debutant to show you around town. By the looks of her, I expect she’d like that very much.”

I wait, expecting William to become angry with my candid remarks. However, he begins to laugh. This is a little unsettling.

“Why Delilah, is that a little green monster I see? You can’t possibly be jealous of her.”

“How dare you suggest such a thing? I couldn’t care less what you do!” I raise my head, in an effort to look uninterested.

“For your information, I’ve known Camilla my entire life. We were childhood friends. Our parents have known each other since before I was born.”

As his words sink in, I blush and feel a little foolish.

“Well, it looks to me like she has other intentions towards you.”

“Maybe she does.” He shrugs his shoulders, before adding, “She acts that way with every guy I know. No one takes her seriously. Besides, she’s more like a little sister to me.”

“I’m not sure that’s a whole lot better. After all, big brothers tend to be pretty fond of their little sisters.”

“I believe the word I used last night was protective, not fond. If you’re going to quote me, you should at least do it correctly.”

“Whatever, same difference,” I say, while glaring at him. “What is it you want from me? Can’t you just leave well enough alone?”

“I had a great time last night; we connected. I don’t want this to be over with before I even have the chance to take you on a proper date. Delilah, I’ve done nothing wrong. Give me a chance.”

“It’s not gonna work out this time. I’m sorry,” I say and rise out of my chair.

He stands before me, hovering a little too close.

“I’ll pick you up tomorrow at 11:00 AM,” he says and his smile brightens.

“You’re awfully determined aren’t you?”

“I find in life I have to be, if I’m to get what I want. Yes, I’m very determined. Look, how about we keep our date for tomorrow? We can see if this is worth pursuing. If you’re still uncomfortable, then I’ll back off. What do you say about that?”

“This is a bad idea, but you win,” I say and walk away, flinging my hands up in the air. “Besides, I’m not gonna tell you where I live. Good luck finding me.”

Although I sound smug, I’m guessing nothing I say can throw him. He’ll find my home and be there to pick me up in the morning, just like he said. I can feel my spirits lift. I don’t say another word, and although it takes effort, I leave him standing alone in the main dining hall.

It’s morning, and William will be here soon! I spring out of bed! My heart’s overflowing with excited anticipation! Within seconds, I’m racing for the kitchen. I can’t wait to put together our picnic lunch. Thank goodness, I started planning our meal last night. Although, I don’t want it to look like I tried too hard, I want something that sings
romance
.

Which blanket should I pack? This one with pink flowers is adorable. No, I need something more masculine. Perfect, I’ll use the one with oversized fish all over it! I mean, who doesn’t like to fish? Now, my nicest silverware rolled up in a blue napkin, and this white ribbon will look so cute tied around it. Glasses, glasses . . . these will work. Maybe I should tie a little bow around their stems. No, that would be overdoing it.

I’m so glad Shep gave me this set of storage containers for my birthday. It didn’t hurt that a few weeks ago, I left a catalogue on the counter—opened to just the right page. I wasn’t surprised Shep bought the powder-blue bowls for me, only that he gave them to me a whole month before my eighteenth birthday.

I close my eyes and imagine the picnic spread I’m gonna put together. This is gonna be the best lunch William has ever had.

I want to look good, too, without letting on like I’m trying too hard. I find my pink t-shirt, with a large neckline that hangs nicely off one shoulder. A brown skirt adds a touch of elegance, but still looks casual. I put on my tan ankle boots before checking the mirror. My feet move from side-to-side, and I have to admit the outfit’s flattering.

The hands on the clock are moving at a snail’s pace. After running around working on small tasks, I look back at the clock . . . it’s only 10:42. I can’t believe only twelve minutes have gone by! Dramatically, I fall onto Shep’s favorite chair and flip through his book. At last, I hear the sound of tires coming up the driveway.