The Covenant - Chapter Twenty-Seven

As they climb the stairs into the theatre, Annie begins to unravel her winter clothing.  First taking off her gloves, and matching wool scarf, and then the heavy thermal knee length coat designed for the snow.  She debates whether to take the button down sweater off as well.  She remembers what Jennings reminded her just before leaving on her trip that the best way to stay warm is to dress in layers as needed.

Just behind her on the stairs Elliot is following while chatting with Ariel Gray who is very artificially enthused about the upcoming musical.   Annie smiles to herself recalling that when she made the suggestion to go to this particular musical last week, Ariel Gray scoffed but evidently her tune changed when she found out what company she would be keeping.

The theatre is warm with a chorus of voices humming in excitement.  The musicians in the pit can be heard tuning their instruments and doing a quick personal run through of more difficult sections of a piece.   The soft recessive lighting reflect off the backdrop on the stage in preparation for the performance.  The velvet curtains sway gently with the air conditioner attempting to cool down the theatre as the program is about to begin.

Directly by a tuxedoed usher to their seats, Beth rushes in first but then decides she doesn't like the view, "Annie, why don't we switch seats.  I think you'll can see better here than me".

Not caring where she sits only appreciate of being there for the performance, Annie lets Beth move back into the aisle and then finds her place.  Beth starts to move in next to her but is thwarted by Elliot who quickly moves in next to Annie.  Not wanting to be upstaged, Ariel shuffles in next to Elliot and leans gently falls against Elliot's knee while placing her purse on the floor.  Ariel then decides rather than placing her coat on the floor and laid back evening in the chair she is sitting in, she moves her coat to take over the left side of her assigned seat so that she is 'forced' to move closer to Elliot touching his arm and knee because of the closed-in space.  Elliot returns a smile as they touch but politely adjusts himself to move even closer to Annie who is right up against the wall.

Beth jealously noticing what is happening leans over to Ariel and vehemently whispers, "Put your coat underneath you or under your seat like everyone else.  It is taking up my space to store your coat!"

Unwillingly and a bit miffed but feeling obligated to, Ariel moves her coat to the proper place and finds that she has more room to breathe this way in the small compact area.  Elliot relaxes and stretches his legs for a moment that were beginning to feel cramped in the balcony area. 

Pretending to be unable to see the orchestra pit, Ariel leans over into Elliot brushing herself against his shoulder, "Can you see the violins from here?"

"No, not really.  I don't think that anyone was meant to" offers Elliot rather startled by her closeness.  "I think all of us have a good view from where we are sitting though".

"Yes, I suppose so" agrees Ariel taking out some lipstick and refreshing her makeup in the darkened theatre and then moving closer to speak softly to Elliot " Beth is so bad at these things, can you tell me Elliot, is my lipstick on correctly?"

"From what I can see it looks fine, Ariel" flatly states Elliot turning in his seat towards Annie "What do you think so far?"

"Well, it hasn't started yet.  But I've really been looking forward to seeing this even though it has been on Broadway for years" explains Annie having read all of the cast profiles in the program.  "I've seen quite a few of the actors before in other productions.  They were quite good, so this should be too!"

"I was surprised to see Rick again.  What is he doing in town?" asks Elliot with a sharp tone in his voice and rolling up his program into a stick at the same time and pounding it against his leg.

"I don't know exactly.  I didn't have a chance to ask him why he was here.  We just had a few minutes to speak together before you arrived" explains Annie wanting to keep the memories of her conversation with him private until she has time to reflect on it.

"Well, I'm glad you're here with me.  He's such a bore.  This is a much better way to spend an afternoon than with your head stuck in a book" bluntly replies Elliot not appreciating anything that might have to do with literature.

"Rick's a great guy once you get to know him and quite intelligent too" defends Annie acutely aware that she would rather spend a boring afternoon discussing a book than at a musical with Elliot while her sister and best friend flirt with him.

"Maybe there is more there than what meets the eye, but I certainly don't see it" reflects Elliot trying to make an impression that will devalue Annie's respect of Rick.

Annie can feel her anger rising but attempts to ignore his comments.  "How long did they say the musical lasts?  I have some things that I need to do afterwards."

"Let's see, I think it is 2 hours and 40 minutes with the intermission" offers Beth at the other end of the aisle wanting to be included in the conversation.

"We need to play to go to one together every week!" exclaims Ariel cuddling into Elliot shoulder for added affect of her excitement at the prospect of more time together.

This time Elliot smiles back at her and then leans over towards her  "Not a bad idea.  We'll definitely have to make plans for that to happen."

In response Beth glares at Ariel as the lights begin to flicker in the room to let them know that the show will be starting in five more minutes.

Remembering to silence her phone, Annie takes her cell out of her purse and notices the first call is from Rick but that he didn't leave a message.  Another call is from Alice Hammer who did leave a recent message for her.   She dials her password and then listens:

"Hey Annie!  This is Alice Hammer.  Remember me?  I'm sure you do, I'm just joking.  Jennings and I have been scheming together again and thought that a trip to New York this weekend might be a lot of fun.  We're taking the train up and will arrive tomorrow.  I was wondering if you could meet us at the train station and if there might be a place at the Silver Crest Towers where you are staying.  Just let us know.  We are on our way!"

As Annie shuts down her phone, she giggles and is thrilled that her friends will be joining her soon.  She hopes that they will maybe provide some encouragement where Rick is concerned with her family too.   The loud speaker announces that the show is beginning giving a little background history to the story that will unfold in great dramatic display before them.

The Covenant - Chapter Twenty-Six

Walking into the large chain bookstore after wiping her wet boots on the welcome mat, Annie quickly aims for the rows of novels with special highlighted red tags discounted at a lower price.  The large mahogany bookcases are filled with many literature treasures. The books are bound in a variety of hard cardboard, leather, flimsy  bendable paper, some with embossed covers or sketches of a likely scene of the story within.  Some carry titles of "how to ...", others with gorgeous landscapes,  a few with a tempting review on the back cover, but all with a plethora of fonts trying to attract buyers.

In turn, Annie glances over each one recalling a series of adventures, mysteries, and love stories that she has enjoyed in the past.  Glancing through the stacks, she wrinkles her nose at a book that reminds her of a less than satisfying plot line, while most of the others rekindle of warm glow of time well spent reading.   As she tediously peruses the shelves,  Annie pauses over some new releases as the aroma of fresh ground coffee and hot bakery items fill the aisles.  Hearing an unexpected growl  in response to her senses, she considers perhaps a snack might be in order and heads towards the in-store cafe area.  She grabs a book that challenges her interest and finds a comfortable seat to indulge her imagination.

After buying her latte and lemon cake, she moves about comfortably in the sofa in the corner of the cafe and opens up to the forward to read who the book happened to be dedicated to.  She always finds this interesting and wonders who the person is and what they did in the author's life to inspire them to dedicate a piece of their creative soul to them.  Often it is a parent, a spouse, an editor, perhaps a best friend, but there is usually generally someone that the author is reminding them of this gift of their heart.    She wonders how much the story is based on truth versus the author's own imagination or wishful thinking.  Annie smiles to herself and continues reading.

Without looking around her, Annie smells a familiar cologne lodging itself not too far from her.   While staring down at her novel, she finds herself blushing remembering the owner of such a wonderful scent.  She shuffles in her seat again and returns to her story from her temporary break of concentration. 

In spite of her reading reverie,  she hears a man next to her politely clear his throat.  Without glancing up, she begrudgingly shuffles more to her left away from him expecting that he needed some more room to sit down than she was offering in her comfort.  Breathing deeply in annoyance, she slightly tilts her back towards him and tries to locate her last sentence in the chapter again.

A few seconds later, she hears a pin drop at her feet and roll across the tile flooring.  She considers for a moment whether she will be polite and help it to pick it up, or let the owner scavenger across the room to capture his loss.  She decides to be helpful.  Bending down, she claims the errant pin and raises her head just in time to knock against the chin of the competition claiming to find the lone pen.

"Oeww" she hears him moan next to her, as Annie hovers her hand over the pain now increasing on her  own temple too.  She closes her eyes hoping that somehow darkness will attempt to make a speedier recovery.  "I'm sorry"  Annie whispers in her agony without opening her eyes  "I was just trying to help".

"It's okay" she hears a familiar voice respond while rubbing his chin "I was trying to surprise you. I've been trying to get your attention, I guess that I got it now even if my jaw is hurting a bit.  I hope you are okay too."

"What?" asks Annie looking up into the face of a well-known friend "I didn't know you were in town!" 

"Yes, just got in a few hours ago" Rick responds still cuddling a red spot on his chin "How are you doing?"

"I'm doing well!  I didn't know you were coming here!" gushes Annie blushing in excitement in seeing him again.

"I'm glad you found my pen" offers Rick holding his hand out to her as Annie is nervously flipping it back and forth in her hand  "I've been dropping it all over the place and you didn't even notice.  I finally had to kick it over your way.  I wasn't even sure you were going to pick up then."

"Yeah, it took a moment to consider whether I wanted to interrupt my story or not to help a stranger" giggles Annie very pleased to see him again "We've got a lot to catch up on!"

Moving closer to her on the sofa, Rick appears to be just as delighted to see her again, "So, how is the visit going with your family?  Are you having a good time?"

"Ummm ... that is rather debatable depending on the day.  But things have gone much better than I expected.  I have a few friends in town which have made things a lot better too" explains Annie taking a sip of her hot coffee.

"I hoped that we would run into each other.  I know that this is one of your favorite places no matter what the city and that you are staying just around the corner.  So I took a chance and thought I might run into you here" offers Rick smiling into her eyes "It's really good to see you again."

Annie blushes but then remembers one annoying fact, "So, when are you getting married?  I haven't heard a date yet?"

"What?" shocked asks Rick "I guess eventually, most people do. Once you find the person you want to be with, you make that happen as long as both are willing."

"Yes, it appears that time has come" agrees Annie feeling a big dejected that he is already attached and there is no longer hope "It's always important to find the right one and not settle."

"I agree completely.  It's good to have a friend to marry but you need someone whom you are attracted to as well and share many things in common with especially core values too" continuing the conversation adds Rick unsure where Annie is leading them.

"You'll make a wonderful husband.  You're a good listener and caring.  You're smart and wise. Anyone would be happy to spend their life with you" suggests Annie wanting to support him in his decision and feeling that Lauren doesn't quite measure up to him.

"Well thank you.  I hadn't really considered those qualities in myself before and I'm flattered that you noticed" gushes Rick quite taken with all the sincere compliments. "You could say the same for yourself too."

"Yes, I guess so.  At least I hope to make someone happy one day" humbly states Annie wishes that he was that 'someone' rather than an unknown figure in the future.

"So you still didn't answer my question, when are you getting married?" impatiently asks Annie not wanting to delay the horrible answer too much longer.

"Uhhh.." begins Rick not sure what he is suppose to answer "I don't know.  I hope soon."

"Oh" deeply sighs Annie feeling that a relationship between them is truly hopeless "Well, I hope she ends up deserving you."

"Who?" confused asks Rick realizing perhaps they might not be communicating on the same subject.

"Who?  What do you mean 'who'?  You know.  Stop teasing me" remarks Annie slightly annoyed that he won't bring up Lauren's name and acting like he doesn't know who she is.

Feeling that Annie is playing a game knowing that it is her that he actually is thinking about marrying even though he has not admitted it to anyone states confidently with a smile "Oh, I see what you're doing. I think you know" moving a bit closer to her to see how her eyes are responding.

In response to his closeness, she tilts her head a little further back wondering why he is putting a move on her at this moment in the cafe while talking about his fiance, "Okay, I guess you're not going to tell me and I'll just have to guess."

"This sounds like fun" agrees Rick not sure what she is doing but thinking the game of sharing their feelings is rather entertaining.  He places his arm behind her on the sofa and is charmed by the whole conversation.

"Are you getting married next month or six months from now?"  politely asks Annie wondering how long she has to find a dress to attend his wedding.

"Let's see.  I think three months is actually a good time.  It's long enough to get things together and merge two lives.  What do you think?" smiling at her, Rick takes another sip of his coffee waiting for her response.

"It's the time I would have chosen too" sighs Annie despondent that he cannot even see how much even in little things they share in common with each other  "I'm sure you'll be very happy."

"I'm sure too" confidently states Rick too tickled that they are discussing their future life together in such an odd manner without even a formal proposal. "I think when two people love each other many wonderful things can happen quickly."

"Yes, quickly ..." Annie can almost feel a tear forming and wonders why Rick cannot see how much she loves him  "I'm sure you and Lauren will be very happy together."

Acting as if he has just been slapped, Rick moves a foot away from her, "Lauren?  What do you mean, Lauren?  I'm not marrying Lauren.  Ben Wick is marrying Lauren." And then looking into her eyes and seeing the forming tears, reads Annie entirely wrong, "Are you upset that Ben Wick is marrying Lauren?  I knew you liked him this summer, but I thought you would be over him by now."

Scrunching her nose, Annie responds, "No, I don't care about Ben Wick.  I'm incredibly happy to hear Lauren and Ben Wick are getting married!  I had no clue!  When did they get together?"

"You didn't know?" puzzled asks Rick completely surprised that the gossip had not reached her yet.

"No, I didn't even know they were interested in each other" truthfully admits Annie recalling that Ben Wick didn't seem all that impressed with Lauren's shallowness in a few conversations with him.

"They got together within the few hours I was flying back to the states with you.  By the time I returned to Peru, they were already settled as a couple.  Didn't your sister tell you?"  bluntly asks Rick.

"No, she gave me the impression you were very much still with Lauren and that you were going to be engaged soon" honestly replies Annie confused by her sister's deception.

"She was there.  She saw Lauren and Ben Wick together.  I don't understand why she didn't tell you" angrily confirms Rick "Did she give you the box I sent home with her for you?"

"No, I didn't get anything except for the occasional post cards you sent me" replies Annie "I enjoyed them very much.  Thank you for sending then to me.  I didn't wonder why you didn't really mention Lauren in them, but it was nice to hear from you."

Rick sits silently for a moment trying to digest what he has just been told and realizing that Annie may not fully be aware of his feelings for her yet again.

"I wondered why I didn't hear from you too often.  You mentioned that you had run into Elliot again. Do you see him very often?" tentatively asks Rick unsure how Annie feels about him.

"Yes, we see each other a lot" informs Annie but seeing that Rick appears not too happy with this as he sulks back into the sofa adds "But we're just friends.  I think Beth and Ariel Gray are more in a competition for his attention."

"I was wondering if you were going to Sunday Evening at the Temple tomorrow?" asks Rick hoping to set a time to see her again.

"Yes, I'll be there!  We can meet and sit together if it's all right with you" offers Annie "They are having Captains Will and Liz Darcy as the special musical guests."

"It would be really good to see them again" agrees Rick "I'll look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  What are your plans for tonight?  Would you like to have dinner?"

"That would be lovely!" blushes Annie excited to spend more time with him when she hears a voice calling out from across the bookstore.

"Annie!  Hey, Beth and Ariel are waiting outside for you.  Remember, we're going to the play tonight?" rushes up Elliot looking Rick critically up and down as Rick glares at him.

"Oh .." sighs Annie looking apologetically at Rick "I forgot".

"I already bought your ticket" firmly states Elliot not giving her any leeway to change her mind.

 Looking over to Rick and smiling in a very hopeful manner, "Umm ... I will definitely take a rain check on dinner.  We have to go soon!"

"That would be great!" politely states Rick hating for his afternoon surprise to be interrupted.

As Annie grabs her coat and begins to walk away as Elliot is leading her by the elbow, she breaks free for a moment and returns back to the table and leans up to give Rick a peck on the cheek.  "It was really good seeing you again.  I'm looking forward to tomorrow night!"

Rick smiles back at her but throws silent daggers at Elliot impatiently waiting behind her.

The Covenant - Chapter Twenty-Five

 "So do you know what today is?" excitedly asks Eliot mugging and leaning over towards Annie trying to capture her attention.

"No, not really.  Saturday, I guess ..." bewildered responds Annie trying to remember if there is any significance to the day.

"Of course you know" teases Elliot taking her hand "It's a very special day for us".

"ummm" sighs Annie not sure of any event to mark the date "Let me think ..."

"You're kidding me!" retorts Elliot "It's been three months since we met again in New York!"

"Oh ... I didn't realize it, sorry" states Annie a little flushed that it would have been a milestone to him since they've been going out together as friends "I'll have to put it in my calendar so I remember the it next time it rolls around again."

"Well, today we are celebrating" informs Elliot not deterred by her lack of memory of dates "I'm taking you to my favorite Peruvian restaurant."

Recalling sweet memories, Annie smiles "I'd love too!  Are we going there now?"

"Yes, I thought we would start there and spend the rest of the day together" suggests Elliot having thoughtfully organized the day for the two of them.

"Let me just grab my coat and I'll be right back" offers Annie quickly heading towards the other room.

Noticing in the mirror her lack of fashion accents, she looks into her jewelry box on the dresser and finds the long looped red and green beaded earrings that Beatriz made for her at the children's home as a parting gift.  Holding the earrings in the palm of her hand, she tenderly smiles and says a silent prayer for the children, Harriett, and Major Smith at the home.

"I'm just about ready" she calls out to Elliot patiently waiting in the other room.  Her thoughts linger and she wonders how Rick is getting along.  Thinking sadly to herself, "He must be engaged by now, it's really time for me to move on."

While attempting to pick up her purse, it accidently tips over and out of the side pocket falls the most recent postcard Rick sent to her a couple of weeks ago.  It was friendly and warm with news of current events but devoid of any personal impressions of anything more than friendship towards her.   After tracing the signature slowly with her fingertips, she gently places it in the top drawer of her dresser and shuts it with a firm hand.

As they walk towards the subway, Elliot is very chatty about recent conversations in his life with influential people around the city.  He tells her of his new wardrobe and how impressive he looks wearing it. He repeats many of the charming stories he has told several times before.   Annie encourages him but her thoughts remain elsewhere.

As the trek up the sloped sidewalk, Elliot places his hand on the small of her back to make sure she doesn't slip on the wet concrete among the overcrowded walkway.  "It's just up a handful of blocks, it won't take us long to get there."

Moving past a floral shop on the corner, Annie senses fill with the scent of orchids which remind her of Peru.  Looking over, she sees baskets filled with colorful orchids of maize, mauve, and violet and notices also the magenta-hanging belled flowers with a sunburst in the center.  The Cantuta daintily mixes in as accents amongst the buckets of orchids.  She tenderly remembers gathering the wild flowers on an outing with the children and then keeping the collection fresh in a paper Dixie cup to decorate her simple room for the summer.

"Would you like to carry a few with you for the day?" asks Elliot noticing how much the flowers seem to be affecting her.

"No, thank you.  They just bring back some memories" responds Annie quickly boxing those sweet moments in to recall at a later time.

"Just wait a minute" as Elliot walks into the store leaving her alone to peruse the other options of flowers.

Quietly Annie picks up a single orchid in her hand inhaling the fragrance as it sooths her thoughts.  She looks over at Elliot through the window and notices he has a small bouquet in his hand.  He is chatting with the young woman in the somewhat rather long line behind him.  She notices that he is taking out his phone while she seems to be repeating a number to him. 

Sighing, Annie shakes her head and is grateful that her feelings have not moved any deeper beyond friendship towards him in spite of his attention and mock devotion.

"Here, I got these just for you!" exclaims Elliot handing her a small wild flower bouquet and quickly giving her a light kiss on the cheek.

"Well, thank you very much!  They brighten my day!" sincerely responds Annie holding the bouquet between both her hands and taking a moment to breathe in the beautiful kaleidoscope of scents.

As they near their destination, Annie can hear rhythmic drums and flutes with a familiar beat and tune. She can feel her feet unintentionally move to the rhythm of some of the traditional dances the children taught to her over the past summer. She giggles to herself knowing that her uncoordinated ability to dance left a lot to be desired but the attempt was greatly appreciated.

"What are you doing?" curiously asks Elliot noticing that Annie is moving in an unusually slightly awkward way.

"I'm just having fun, trying to remember how the kids taught me to dance" replies Annie and then more sincerely with some laughter "I wasn't a very good student as you can see".

Placing his arm around her in a shoulder hug, Elliot laughs with her and attempts to mimic some of her moves as well which amuses both of them.

"Please come this way" offers the hostess carrying two green leather bound menus and guiding them to a quiet corner table.

The waiter greets them with "Hola! Como estas esta tarde?"

"Muy bien, muchos gracias." replies Elliot with his limited knowledge of Spanish and then burying himself within the folds of the menu hoping there are no more further questions to answer.

After chatting some with the waiter about the menu choices, Annie orders her meal in Spanish that she was eventually able to pick up and recall from her service corps experience. 

"Well, I hope what you ordered for me is good" teases Elliot not very daring where food is concerned but wanting to please Annie.

"I think you'll like it, if not I'll trade you" offers Annie feeling quite a home there and placing a finger on her cheek as her earring dangles against her hand while noticing the decorations and atmosphere of the restaurant.

"This is delicious!  What is it again?" asks Elliot taking another portion from the appetizer plate.

"It's called  "papa rellena" which is fried mashed potatoes stuffed with meat, raisins, olives and a hard boiled egg.  It was one of my favorite snacks" remarks Annie taking another large bite "I've ordered a squash soup and for the entree Tacu Tacu with fried Bizcochito bananas.  I think you'll like it."

"You're always having me try new things" admits Elliot with a smile "Most of your ideas haven't turned out to be too bad.  I'm going to trust you this time."

While Elliot excuses himself to respond to a text with a return call, Annie looks around the room.  Framed photos of the Peruvian landscape of clouded mountain peaks and Machu Picchu outline the dining room. Annie's thoughts drift to conversations she once had with Rick.  Her heart aches for a moment as she shuffles her cloth napkin in her lap trying to place the memories aside.

As Elliot returns to the table, he seems a bit flushed and agitated.  "I have to change our  plans for this afternoon.  A personal emergency came up that I need to deal with.  Do you mind if I take you home and I could meet you later on for coffee?"

"That's fine.  Don't worry about it.  I was thinking of going to the book store anyway because one of the books of my favorite authors has just come in" offers Annie wanting some time on her own to think and to sort-through all of her emotions that have been stirred today.

"All right, I'll meet you at the 'Adventurous Sleuth' since I know it is typically where I will find you at 6 pm.  How does that sound?"  suggests Elliot relieved that Annie is not upset that he has to leave earlier than expected.

"See you then!" graciously replies Annie "Thank you so much for lunch, it was very thoughtful of you!  We'll have to do this again in three months."

"Sounds like a date!" jokes Elliot kissing her on the cheek before heading out on his way to deal with other private matters.

The Covenant - Chapter Twenty-Four

"Really, Annie why don't you wear this dress tonight?" advises Lydia Russell pulling out a dress that she bought for Annie on their last shopping spree at an exclusive clothing store "I bought it for you as a gift and you haven't worn it yet.  I think tonight would be a perfect night to wear it."

Annie shifts in front of the mirror having already chosen an attractive dress but one that she has worn for many special events. "I don't know.  Do you think it will be too much?"

"You will look beautiful in it.  We're going to The Met tonight, there are all extremes of dress there from divine and elegant to casual.  Whatever you choose to wear, you will fit in" then sarcastically adding Lydia Russell "Of course I wouldn't wear shorts and a t-shirt.  I wouldn't doubt they would let you in."

"It is very pretty.  I like the simple lines of the black dress" agrees Annie holding it up to her in the mirror and taking her other hand to hold her hair up as tresses fall down along her cheeks "It is rather flattering."

"Good.   I've made appointments to have our hair done in an hour.  I like the idea of an up-do, it looks quite nice on you" suggests Lydia Russell "You'll have such a good time with Elliot tonight."

"Yes, I suppose so" half-heartedly agrees Annie wondering why she has a continual nagging feeling that he isn't all that he presents himself to be.

"You are being ridiculous!" chides Lydia Russell  "At Commissioner Darlrymples dinner all he could talk about was you and how wonderful you are.  He seems very charmed by you, Annie.  Any other woman would be ecstatic that such a catch would be interested in them.  He's probably the most eligible man in the Army right now and you're acting as if he is just one in the ocean."

"He's nice and has been a good friend to me, but something is missing" honestly explains Annie "He likes to flirt a lot too which makes me uncomfortable.  He seems to crave a lot of attention."

"You're just a little jealous.  Women do throw themselves at him because he is so attractive.  It doesn't matter how many woman want him but that he only wants you" advises Lydia Russell.

"I would rather that he didn't provoke their attention even if he wants me.  I want someone who feels that I am enough for them" replies Annie resolute in her feelings "I want someone who loves me more than their need to be admired."

"Well, he's young and a little immature on that point.  But I'm sure it is just a phase" compromises Lydia Russell having observed his friendly manner with both Beth and Ariel Clay when Annie is not present "Once he is committed to you so will be his heart."

"I'd rather find someone who in loving me commits before anything agreement is made" argues Annie.

"He will, dear.  He's almost there, I am sure of it" encourages Lydia Russell "His whole countenance lights up when he talks about you.  He's quite taken with you even if you don't realize it yet."

"I  wish he's save some of that sparkle just for me, he seems to be quite generous in sharing it when there is someone pretty around that has noticed him" counters Annie "At least he is very nice to me and he does make me feel special and the most important person in the room when I am with him."

"See ... I know you feel the same way ... he does care about you" agrees Lydia Russell smiling while standing behind Annie in the mirror and placing her hands on each of her shoulders.  "He's been attractive to you because of what you have on the inside of you, tonight you're going to show him a little sparkle of your own on the outside."

"I guess you're right.  I certainly haven't encouraged him to like me but we seem to get along well.  He likes who I am without trying to impress him at all" considers Annie "which really isn't that bad of quality to have".

"Before you know it, you'll be falling in love with him too" delighted states Lydia Russell "it doesn't hurt that he comes from such a prestigious Army heritage and that he has a little money to go around too.  He'll make a very nice home for you Annie and he loves you too. What more does woman want?"

"I don't need money or a name, but I do want someone that sincerely loves me and that I love with their whole heart too" sighs Annie not sure that Elliot would even understand what it means to love someone with their entire soul.

"We shall see" smug lydia Russell is determined to convince Annie that Elliot is the right man for her "I'll meet you downstairs in the lobby in about ten minutes and we can leave for our hair appointments".

The door closes behind Lydia Russell as Annie can hear her greet her father "Oh Mr. Elliot, you look so handsome today!  I'll have to watch out for you!"

After Lydia Russell leaves, Annie collapses on the bed and stares at her phone glancing at pictures of Rick and the kids from the summer.  Her heart fills with sadness and longing remembering sweet moments that they shared just a few short months ago.   She enlarges the picture that Rick took of them with her phone as they were arriving at the airport to return to the states.  The silence is deafening as she feels her heart pounding as tears try to force their way to be felt.  Annie swallows and takes in a deep breath staying still in hopes that the stillness will quiet her heart as well.

A few tears escape which she quickly brushes away, blinking to prevent anymore from leaving their home.  "I won't care" she states out loud to convince herself of a new mantra "I need to move on.  Rick has already forgotten about me and I need to deal with it."

She forces herself to get up from the bed and finds her coat laying on the chair.  As she's placing her scarf around her neck, Annie can feel the determination for a new start building within her.  "I will be fine" she confidently tells her reflection in the mirror as her heart refuses to agree with her.

A few hours later the Eliot family is gathered together in the living room.   Everyone is dressed and ready to go, but they are waiting on Annie to finish up since both Beth and Ariel Clay took as long as possible in the bathroom with their own accessory needs.

"I'm coming" yells Annie from the closed door "I'm just putting my shoes on."

"I don't mind waiting" offers Elliot looking forward to seeing Annie dressed up for the first time to attend the opera accustomed to seeing her in jeans and sweaters "I know women like to have a few extra minutes to look special."

"I wish she would hurry up.  She's always last" pouts Beth "I don't understand why it takes her so long.  She's had the room to herself for fifteen minutes, that's plenty enough time to get yourself ready."

"Maybe we took a little too long today.  I know that I an hour to myself and I think you had a little longer than even that" apologetically adds Ariel Clay knowing that Beth selfishly monopolized the bathroom for two hours to prepare for tonight.

"She's fine.  Annie never needs much time to get ready.  She doesn't do anything with herself anyway" begrudgingly  remarks Beth jealous of her sister's natural beauty  "I don't know why she bothers at all, she doesn't care if anyone is looking at her or not."

A few seconds later, Annie walks out into the room.  "You look beautiful Annie!" exclaims her father "I've never seen you look so pretty before.  You might be in competition with me for the most attractive member of this family tonight!

Elliot moves to stand next to her.  He quietly places her coat on her shoulders as he whispers in her hear "You look lovely tonight, never more beautiful."

"Thank you" Annie blushes looking down wondering what all the fuss is about or the envious look in the eyes of her sister and her best friend.

"Annie, see I told you that dress was perfect for you.  It looks like it was made specifically for you!" exclaims Lydia Russell thrilled with her expertise of choosing exactly the right dress.

Shyly Annie smiles and checks to make sure that not too much is showing but is met with a fierce look from Lydia Russell of "Don't-you-dare-touch-that-to-cover-anything -up!"  So Annie decides to cover herself with her coat anyway.  Elliot catches her eyes and lingers in  his stare for a few seconds longer than usual while moving closer to her and placing his arm around her waist refusing to let go as she walks towards the door.

The Opera is entertaining.  Each have brought their own pair of opera glasses to watch back and forth between the stage and the words translated into English in the electronic captions in front of them.  But Elliot often "borrows" Annie's glasses and makes quiet commentary of the show, either brushing her cheek with his hand to whisper to her and staying very close to tell of his secret commentary.

Annie is very flattered by Elliot's attention but her thoughts drift to a discussion she had with Rick about the very same opera not to long before.  She sighs and wonders why the person she loves isn't the one sitting her next to her whispering sweet nothings into her ear.

The opera has an outstanding finale. As they begin to leave the auditorium, Elliot grabs her hand as they exit The Met for the subway.  Lydia Russell smiles smugly in her achievement at creating such a great match.

In contrast, Beth has met a very attractive young man during the intermission and appears not to be bothered that Elliot is lost within the depths of her sister.  The man walks with them to the station getting Beth's number and setting up to meet her tomorrow which immensely pleases her. 

Mr. Eliot walks with Lydia Russell on one side and Ariel Clay on the other, both showering him with compliments on his choice of entertainment for the evening, his ego being sufficiently stroked. 

As Elliot incessantly continues to talk, keeping as close as possible to her, Annie thoughts trail to another place and time.  She seems a familiar figure in the shadows on the other side of the fountain.  She talks within herself "Don't be ridiculous.  It couldn't be him.  You need to get yourself together!"

Noticing that Annie hasn't responded to the question causing a break in his pretentious soliloquy, Elliot asks "Is everything all right?"

"Yes, I just thought that I saw someone that I knew but I was mistaken" explains Annie shaking her head "It's been a wonderful night. Thank you."

"My pleasure.  We'll definitely have to do this again" smiles Elliot as he pulls her closer to him and kisses her cheek as her family watches quite thrilled with the attachment that appears to be growing.

 

The Covenant - Chapter Twenty-Three

"How did you manage it?" excitedly asks Beth thinking about what she will wear "Her schedule is usually terribly busy!  Can you imagine, the Commissioner personally asked us to dinner!"

"Yes, it is quite a privilege"  agrees Mr. Elliot beaming from his accomplishment of successful scheming with her secretary "She must have recognized our name and felt it necessary to meet with us".

"The Elliot name is quite well known and respected as it has been for generations" confirms Lydia Russell licking her lips and touching up a few loose strands of hair feeling quite pleased to be associated with such a prestigious Army family "It was so gracious of her to include me in the invitation as well along with your family.  But I've been so close to all of you" taking a moment to glance over at Mr. Elliot with a knowing smile "that it is no wonder that she considers me a part of the family".

"It's so nice too that Elliot was invited as well" adds Ariel Clay feeling elated that he is joining them for dinner too. "Elliot is so attractive, don't you agree Annie?"

"He's nice" nonchalantly confirms Annie "I'm sure you'll have a good time talking with him.  He will keep all of you entertained".

"Won't you be there?" snidely asks Beth "The invite was for all of us.  It would be rather rude not to show up.  How often are you going to get a dinner invitation to the Commissioner's home?"

"I've made prior arrangements to meet my college friend Tanisha Smith for dinner.  It's been ages since we've seen each other" explains Annie grabbing her coat and putting on a knitted hat to keep her warm.

"What is this?  You're not coming with us?" angrily asks Mr. Elliot narrowing his eyes at Annie "The dinner is not optional.  You will come with us."

"I'd like to but I've already made plans to meet Tanisha for tonight which was planned as soon as I found out we were coming to New York" explains Annie "She has gone out of her way to make a really good homemade dinner for us that I'm not going to miss."

"No, you'll be coming with us.  I won't have you embarrassing me by missing this overwhelmingly gracious invitation from the Commissioner.  I would I explain you missing out on seeing her for a night with a friend from college?" firmly states Mr. Elliott placing his hands on his hips to defend his stance.

"I'm sorry father.  I'm not going to dinner tonight.  If we get invited again, I'll go.  I've already promised Tanisha and that is where I will be.  I'll see you later" counters Annie holding her anger inside while heading towards the front door.

"I'm not making any excuses for you.  I'm not happy Annie.  You will regret this decision" warms Mr. Elliot feeling disgruntled that he will not have his entire family with him in an attempt to impress the Commissioner. "This is not a very mature decision to make."

Looking back at her dad, Annie sighs and quietly closes the door behind her glad to not have to endure another evening of boasting and arrogance as her family brags how much better they are than others around them.  In contrast, Annie thoroughly enjoys Tanisha's company and finds her honestly and integrity very refreshing.

Arriving at Tanisha's home, Annie finds comfort in her longtime friend's presence.  They pick up where they left off when they last saw each other a couple of years before.   Tanisha rotates her wheelchair near the fireplace where she has a fresh plate of cookies waiting for Annie's visit.

"I'm so glad you were able to come!" gushes Tanisha not having very many visitors lately to her home.

"I should have come sooner.  We have so much to catch up on!" smiles Annie remember many shared moments of fun and laughter with her best friend.

"So, how was your summer?" asks Tanisha wanting to delve right into the more personal information that is shared between close friends "Were  you interested in anyone?"

"Well, I was but I don't think he was interested in me" confesses Annie shifting in her place on the sofa.

"Really, who was he?" curiously asks Tanisha as her eyes dance in expectation of a good romantic story "What was he like?  Is he cute? Was he anything like Rick?  It took you forever for you to get over him ... if you are over him yet."

"Actually, it was Rick. He came back from missionary service and was leading a service corps team to Peru during his technical furlough time" explains Annie wondering how her friend will respond to the news.

"They usually take vacation time, not another assignment, before going overseas again or taking up a local appointment.  How did that happen?" asks Tanisha a little confused for this unusual situation in Army policy "Why didn't he take a break before going out again?"

"Ummm, I hadn't thought about it much.  But he volunteered to lead the team" considers Annie a little surprised by the realization of this new reality.

"Was this before or after you found out you were on the team?" asks Tanisha wondering if Rick still wasn't over her friend either.

"You know, I don't know.  He volunteered to lead when his friend, Ben Wick, who is quite capable and experienced but was grieving over losing his girlfriend in a car accident.   Ben Wick said wasn't ready to lead a team but he would like to be one to refocus his energy.  I was already chosen, but didn't know because Alice Hammer forgot to tell me that she signed me up" explains Annie for the first time wondering if some buried feelings might have still existed in Rick for his willingness to go along.

"I love Alice Hammer.  How is she doing?  What about Jennings?  They always seem to be quite the team.  When I was a teen they were co-counselors for corps cadets and they were so much fun!  They helped me through a lot of tough times just because they were listening and being there for me.  I didn't always pay attention to what they were trying to tell me but they always had my best interests at heart, I just wish that I had realized it at the time" regretfully acknowledges Tanisha adjusting the blanket covering her still legs in the chair "Maybe I would have been a little wiser about the friends I was hanging out with and what they were into."

"Well, I'm glad you're still here.  I don't know what life would have been like without you! You've definitely made my life better by being in it" cheerfully encourages Annie genuinely grateful that such a good friend came into her life.

"So, what happened this summer?" carefully asks Tanisha "Were you guys back together at all?"

"No, not really.  I think we parted as friends though.  He seemed more interested in Lauren Musgrove than me." sadly explains Annie feeling a deep ache within her "Lauren  hurt herself falling from a rock and he ended up returning to Peru to keep an eye on her while she is recovering. I'm sure they are a 'together' by now"

"Oh...that's really too bad.  I've always felt that you would make a great couple.  I remember your family giving you a really hard time while you were dating him because he wanted to be an officer and they wanted you to be a lawyer or doctor, I don't really remember something like that instead.  You ended up to be a nurse which suits you quite well though" reflects Tanisha "Do you ever want to be an officer or has that idea moved beyond this moment?"

"Actually I do think of it quite often. But there wouldn't be a way to pay my student loans on the amount of an allowance an officer makes unless God did a miracle and I'm not sure I would want to be a single officer" honestly admits Annie wishing that someone would come into her life with the same goals.

"I imagine being a single officer is tough and lonely at times" agrees Tanisha feeling the pain and grief of being alone since losing her fiance in the accident even though she lived. "It's hard living alone or having to share a home with someone that you don't know that well or may even not like just because you're assigned together and what the corps can afford."

 "I believe that God could bring the right man into my life, but I don't want to be one of those who choose someone just because they share the same occupation.  I'd rather find someone who first loves me and shares my calling, and also fits nearly every other area of who I am quite well too.  Marriage requires much more than just fitting the identity of being an officer and being able to work with them" and then more reflectively Annie reflectively continues "I don't want to compromise this most sacred area of life just so I have someone and I'm not lonely anymore even if I enjoy the calling and role of being an officer."

"Well, maybe God will bring along the right man when the time is right.  I'm disappointed to hear it won't be Rick, but someone will come along I'm sure.  Have you met anyone else?" trying to refocus the conversation asks Tanisha not wanting her friend to feel sad.

"Yes, but I don't know.  His name is Elliot and I met him on the trip.  He's here in New York and already became friends with my family before  I came here and I just ran into him again" offers Annie "I think Beth is interested in him though."

"Beth has always been interested in whoever you are at any one time.  Rick has been the only one who hasn't fallen into her trap.  He genuinely cared about you.  But you'll find someone else who will love you like that too" encourages Tanisha "Maybe Elliot could be the man for you."

"I don't know.  He's nice and very charming.  But he's indiscriminate with his attention.  I don't know what to think of him yet" cautiously explains Annie straightening her jeans and considering the past few days.

"Elliot is an uncommon name.  I use to know someone by that name, but there is no way it could be the same person.  It was years ago after we lost contact for awhile after college" remembers Tanisha  "This guy sounds very nice.  You need to give him a chance.  It sounds like Rick might have moved on and it would probably be a good thing if you could make up your mind to do that too rather than dwelling on what might have been."

"You're right.  Elliot is here with me now and I need to give that a chance.  As far as I'm aware, Rick will probably come home engaged to Lauren by the way I keep hearing things are going between them.  Rick writes but doesn't say much about her except they are spending time together.  But I know Lauren's number one priority on her agenda is to marry him and she is very aggressive too while usually getting what she wants.  She's  told everyone how much she is interested in him and implies that his interest is returned.  He doesn't have much choice other than to give into her.  He would have to be awfully strong not to give into her constant attention."

"Well knowing you, I'm sure that you are already praying about it and that things will work out as they need to" supports Tanisha having seen many answers to prayers numerous times in her own life even if the answers weren't exactly what she expected they would be.

"You're right.  I think that I'll give Elliot a chance maybe things will work out this time" contemplates Annie hoping to take to heart her friend's suggestion in spite of the daily ache of missing Rick that continues every day since Annie last saw him.