simarillion (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
simarillion) wrote2009-05-08 04:51 pm
simarillion) wrote2009-05-08 04:51 pm
FIC: "Pride & Prejudice" (7/9)
Pride & Prejudice
By Simarillion
Fandom: TV show RPS (Supernatural, Prison Break, House M.D., Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, Smallville, Coupling, Grey’s Anatomy, Numbers, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ally McBeal, Desperate Housewives, Will & Grace)
Rating: G to PG-13
Pairing: of interest: Jensen Ackles/Jared Padalecki, Wentworth Miller/Hugh Laurie
Warnings: AU, slash, M/M, evil! Chad
Beta: draft version (unbetaed)
Summary: There's nothing of greater importance than gossip. Besides marrying your children off. So when Mr. Padalecki announces the opening of a new Padalecki gallery on Third Street, it comes as no surprise that both gossip and marriage plans are on the daily schedule.
Disclaimer: None of the herein presented happenings and events are true. Everything is 100% fiction and that includes the sexuality of the characters. We don’t claim to be in the know about their relations and private affairs and we don’t make any money with the creation of this story.
Notes: The idea of a Jane Austen AU cames to me a very long time ago, with a different Austen novel as the plot and in a completely different fandom. It re-surfaced this summer though, and when talking about it withduchess_of_hell, it soon became clear that the writing of this story would be my summer project.
I absolutely adore the cast of the fic and it took me and Susi hours to decide which actor would be the right one for which character. It was great fun though, and made us laugh so hard at times, that people were looking at us funny.
[Previous Parts]
Chapter Nineteen
This time when Wentworth Morgan returns home he forgoes the phone call to his brother, messaging him instead and giving a very short and brief recapture of the evening and the confusing conversation with Mr. Laurie and Dr. Leonard.
After receiving the advice to wait and see what happens, the young man retires and does not wake before noon the next day. The combination of Mr. Laurie and Mrs. Bishop proved to be even more exhausting than a jetlag after a 24 hours flight.
The next day brings a change in the form of an unexpected visit by Dr. Robert S. Leonard who arrives shortly after breakfast with the wish to get a tour of the neighbourhood by Wentworth Morgan. The young Morgan is delighted to oblige the older man’s wish and he proposes a walk to the Wheaton Regional Park.
On their leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood the two men discuss yesterday’s company and Dr. Leonard comes up with anecdotes about Mrs. Kelly Bishop and Mr. Hugh Laurie. It amuses Wentworth to hear about the mishaps of Mr. Laurie.
They reach the park where the walkway leads them through the park past meadows and small woods. Wentworth likes talking to Dr. Leonard for the older man’s kind character appeals to him and is much more preferable to Mr. Laurie. Their talk has covered a vast variety of topics, ranging from society to Jensen Morgan’s oncoming internship at Princeton-Plainsboro.
When their talk comes to Mr. Laurie, Wentworth is surprised to hear Dr. Leonard speak in such praising words about Hugh Laurie. It appears that to his closest friends and family the abominable man is almost saint like. Wentworth’s disbelieve is countered at once with an example of Mr. Laurie’s good intentions and deeds.
“Why only recently my cousin saved a friend from entering a most disadvantageous relationship. The young man in question was from a rather horrid family I am given to understand and it was only through Mr. Laurie’s helpful and timely intervention that it was prevented that the budding relationship blossomed into more. I was told that the mother and the younger siblings were the worst of the lot.”
It is quite clear to Wentworth Morgan just who this friend and the so displeasing family are. He fights hard for composure to avoid giving away the intimacy of the story.
When he offers the probable explanation of a misunderstanding the answer to this is quickly bestowed.
“I do not believe that to be so but if it were my cousin’s victory would be slightly lessened. No, I am sure that what Hugh Laurie told me was the complete truth. He is not known to lie.”
The revelation of the nature of the separation between Mr. Padalecki and Jensen has come as a shock to Wentworth and he feels the need to stomach the information in peace. Claiming a severe case of headache, the young man excuses himself and starts his walk back to the Patterson home.
While walking he gets himself into a fine state and by the time he arrives at his destination there is a burning anger inside him. He despises Mr. Laurie more than ever before and he damns him for destroying Jensen’s future with Jared Padalecki. Mr. Hugh Laurie’s actions are inexcusable, and Wentworth wishes his family had never made the acquaintance with the despicable man.
Wentworth Morgan’s retreat to his room is interrupted by Mrs. Patterson who informs the young man about a visitor who is waiting in the living room. He is loath to delay his brooding and raving for a talk with a stranger but propriety demands he conceive his visitor.
His mood darkens further upon recognising the stranger. It is the very person who has Wentworth in such a state. Mr. Laurie.
The older man sits on the couch but gets up the moment Wentworth enters to room. There is a nervous air about him and for some time the two men face each other without any outward reaction from either of them. It is Wentworth who breaks the silence at the end.
“Good day, Mr. Laurie.”
“Good day, Mr. Morgan.”
The young Morgan refuses to sit down for he has no desire at all to remain in the room any longer than strictly necessary and furthermore he wants to clearly signal his dislike of Mr. Laurie.
Hugh Laurie remains standing as well and after some more seconds of looking from Wentworth to the door, he braces himself for whatever he came here to tell Wentworth.
“In vain I have suffered, it will not do. I can no longer keep silent about this. There are no words to express how ardently I love and admire you. It must be clear how impossible this connection between us is and that there is no way that the revelation of a bond between me and your person must lead to my social downfall. It is against my very nature and propriety but I cannot hide it anymore. I must ask you to enter into a relationship with me.”
Word after word cut into Wentworth until his anger cannot be contained anymore and he answers enraged: “I am sorry but I must decline the offer.”
“But...why are you refusing a connection that you can only benefit from?”
“From the moment we met you constantly insulted me and my family. Just now you told me that a connection between us is impossible and that it will lead to your downfall. You said that it is against your very nature. Only you can ask for a relationship and insult me at the same time,” cries Wentworth.
“Surely you are realistic enough to realize that the social standing of your family, even though your father is famous with the MTV community, has no real value here on the East Coast, and that there is no way that a relationship between yourself and my person will not be frowned upon. Never forget that this relationship would be homosexual of nature and therefore cause twice the uproar,” is Mr. Laurie’s answer.
“And what about Jensen? I could never start a relationship with you, knowing that you destroyed my brother’s hope of future happiness. Never mind what you did to poor Mr. Murray.”
“This is what you accuse me of. Based on some stories you heard from Mr. Chad Michael Murray you decided long ago that I am a scoundrel that is not worth your notice?”
This time Wentworth does not reply, preferring to glare at the other man and punish his conversational adversary with his repugnance.
“Very well, my words that are so disgusting to you were from the heart. I am sorry I bothered you and hope that you and your family will fare well in the future. I take my goodbye from you.”
As Mr. Laurie leaves the room Wentworth immediately heads for his room where he calls his brother to inform him about what he learned. For a long time the younger brother goes on and on about the events of the last 24 hours and when he comes to a closure he rants about Mr. Laurie.
“All this time he was hiding all of this inside of him. Poor Mr. Laurie.”
“How can he be poor?” asks Wentworth.
“Just imagine how hard it has to be to feel so deeply the whole time and not being able to express your emotions. I feel very sorry for Hugh Laurie.”
“Only you can feel sorry for the person who is at fault for Mr. Padalecki leaving you.”
Jensen Morgan replies that he is sure that if Mr. Padalecki’s feelings had been strong enough not even Mr. Laurie would have been able to be successful with his machinations. Jensen Morgan concludes that apparently Jared Padalecki had not been emotionally invested in him, and therefore it had been easy to manipulate the young man.
Wentworth Morgan once more makes the attempt to defend Mr. Jared Padalecki but Jensen insists on being done with the topic, and so the brothers talk some more about Dr. Leonard and his promise to help Jensen Morgan with his internship, and their plans for New Year’s Eve.
After the phone call to New York Wentworth avoids the other residents of the house. He remains in his room for the afternoon where he prepares for the evening and the party at the house of friends of the Pattersons. Only David Hatcher braves the moodiness and spends some time with his friend, talking about the people they are going to meet.
New Year’s Eve is rather uneventful this time but Wentworth enjoys the time with the older Pattersons and with his friend. He is rather grateful that Mrs. Bishop and Mr. Laurie are not part of the crowd but then again they belong to a superior circle of society. At midnight Wentworth Morgan sends his wishes to family and friends and informs them that he will call the next day after breakfast.
The last days of the holidays the young man returns to his family in Santa Monica where he is reunited with Jensen as well and finally the young men get the chance to talk about all the information face to face. The older Morgan brother admits that Mr. Laurie’s behaviour hurt him more than he revealed at first, but he also assures his younger brother that he does not want Wentworth to tell the tabloids about Mr. Hugh Laurie’s proposition, in order to seek retribution.
On the last day before the two brothers have to return to university Wentworth Morgan receives an e-mail that surprises and angers him, both at the same time. Curiosity gets the better of him at the end though and so he opens the message from Mr. Laurie.
Wentworth Morgan has to reread the message again and then he calls his older brother to let him read the e-mail as well. The content is so surprising that the young man is inclined to discredit the words written.
“But Mr. Murray always appeared to be so charming. It is hard to believe that this is true.”
“What reason would he have to lie about that after admitting to his horrendous actions concerning you and Mr. Padalecki? Furthermore the revelation harms his sister’s reputation. I believe it to be true,” argues Wentworth.
“Maybe Mr. Murray was just misguided and did not mean to cause the harm he almost did?”
“You can’t have them both be good!” laughs Wentworth,” There is only so much good in them both that it is enough for one man and I for my part am inclined to believe it is Mr. Laurie.”
It is decided that they will not tell their mother about the content to ensure that Ms. Alexis Laurie would not have to suffer from bad press. The secret amuses the two brothers for it feels very much like being in the know about a state secret that has to be well-protected.
Chapter Twenty
When their sister Charisma talks about last night’s outing to Rosenbaum’s it comes as a surprise to everyone to hear that Chad Michael Murray had ended the relationship with Ms. Heigl and was back working at the bar.
This news has Sandra Morgan gush about the young man’s good looks and charms for she remembers with satisfaction the besmirching tales Mr. Murray told about Hugh Laurie.
Charisma then describes her friends’ plans of going to Tijuana, Mexico, during spring break. She concludes her tale with the wish to join in the party. This causes a mass reaction at the breakfast table. Whereas Tom Morgan throws in that he wants to join in as well and Mrs. Morgan agrees that it would be a very nice idea to go to Mexico, Mr. Morgan adamantly refuses to allow any of his younger children to go to Tijuana without proper supervision.
The finality with which Jeffrey D. Morgan refuses to let either of the youngest siblings go away for spring break, calms Wentworth somewhat for Charisma eagerly points out that Mr. Murray is to accompany the group of young people and therefore an older, more responsible person will be present.
As Mr. Morgan once more forbids Charisma and Tom Morgan to join their friends, the young woman starts histrionics and wails for the next hours to come.
Before the wailing stops though Wentworth and Jensen have to leave for Palo Alto. They agree that it is good that their father will not be moved on the topic of Mexico and contemplate if it might be a recommendable idea to inform at least their parents about Mr. Murray’s true nature. In the end they decide to wait and see how things are going to develop.
College starts again the next day, and studies and exams take up most of the brothers’ time. There are occasional updates from Santa Monica, and Wentworth watches the developments in the Mexico business with growing horror. Both his mother and Charisma Morgan are slowly but consistently wearing Jeffrey D. Morgan down and it is only a matter of time before he will cave and surrender to the female superiority.
As projects and exams increase in number, the young man thinks less and less about the problems back at home. Studying and revisions take up almost all of his time. With a little bit of envy, Wentworth watches his two friends Ali Larter and Leonard Roberts grow closer with every day. With increasing frequency he has to think about Mr. Laurie’s offer.
This unexpected development confuses Wentworth Morgan for more than one reason. There is of course the obvious, Hugh Laurie being an abominable man who does not deserve any other but hateful thoughts. But what has the young man really in a state is the sudden interest in men he notices.
When Wentworth talked with his older brother about Jensen’s preferences it had been one of the things that he had been thinking about in abundance and now he finds himself finding an answer to the past questions. Apparently he can be attracted to a man as well.
Close to the semester break a surprise excites Wenworth Morgan. His aunt calls him and invites him to a sailing cruise in the Caribbean. The offer of a weeklong stay on his aunt and uncle’s yacht is a fine prospect that he readily agrees to, and so preparations are made for Wentworth to join his relatives in Miami Florida where they will depart for the Caribbean Sea.
After the last exam is written the young man helps his brother pack for a five day trip to Princeton-Plainsboro where Dr. Robert S. Leonard has organised a very short internship with the paediatric department.
When the older brother is safely sent off, Wentworth heads for his own vacation. The journey is not worth being mentioned and soon he finds himself onboard the luxurious sailing yacht and on his way into the Caribbean. Never before has he been to Central America and Wentworth is curious to visit as many islands as possible on his seven day sailing trip.
They enjoy particularly fine weather and the route that Patrick Dempsey planned beforehand takes them past many private islands and deserted spots. There is an energy in the people and life that fascinates the trio and after the first day they keep from going any touristy areas or places and instead anchor and sail in lesser known regions.
Chapter Twenty-One
On their fourth day they leave a harbour with the recommendation to visit a close by island. The name of the secret treasure is Isla de la Casilla Blanca and the residence situated there is called Netherfield by the locals.
After two hours of sailing they arrive at a small isle that has to be the most happily situated place in the whole world. They are amazed about the beauty of nature and the harmony between nature and man-made construction. The place is absolute perfection.
It is decided after some debate to anchor in the small bay and take a look around. They have been reassured that the owner is away and will not visit any time soon. When in inquiring after security measures, it is explained that there are permanently servants living on the premises that willingly show visitors around when being asked.
The sand at the beach is pearly white and Wentworth has to admit that he would love nothing more but to remain on this island for the rest of his life. There is a tranquillity about the place that appeals greatly to the young man.
They find the housekeeper of the island and the house. Mrs. Hennessy is a kind Creole woman of advanced age. She shows Wentworth and his relatives around the house, pointing out the highlights and the more valued possessions. The young man notices that the paintings and the artwork on display are a surprisingly high quality.
Just as Mrs. Hennessy explains one of the statues in the recreation area, Wentworth recognises the person on a photo. The man portrayed is clearly Mr. Hugh Laurie at the same age as Wentworth Morgan. Surprised and curious he studies the photo more closely.
The capture shows Mr. Laurie together with a beautiful woman who smiles contently at the photographer, holding a baby in her arms. The blue eyes are all the same on young Hugh Laurie, on the woman and on the baby. Next to this photo is another picture but this time it is a slightly older Hugh Laurie with a youngster Chad Michael Murray and a little girl.
“This is the owner and his young sister,” explains Mrs. Hennessy.
“Mr. Hugh Laurie is the owner of this private island?”
“Why yes, of course he is. There is no better employer than him. In all my years working for the Laurie family, and I was already working for Mrs. Laurie before she died in that dreadful accident, I never heard a cross word from him. Not once.”
Wentworth took the picture with Chad Murray in his hand to take a closer look at the expression on their faces. There is none of the later contempt or conceit in their expressions. Young Mr. Laurie has his arms around adolescent Mr. Murray and holds his sister’s hand.
“Who is the other young man on this photo?” is Mrs. Dempsey’s question.
“The young man on this picture is Mr. Murray. He used to live with Mr. Laurie and his sister but he turned out to be very wild.”
Mrs. Dempsey’s question about the whereabouts of the owner are answered with the disclosure that Mr. Laurie with his sister and party of friends is to arrive the next day for Ms. Laurie’s birthday party. She happily describes in detail the party planned and tells them about the motor yacht which was especially commissioned for the young woman.
The sudden attack of anxiousness is lightened by the information that the party is only supposed to arrive the next day. When Mrs. Hennessy offers to show them the garden and the small harbour, the group eagerly follows her outside and into the immense layout.
They marvel at the tropical lushness of the plants and the exquisite design of the garden.
While Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey discuss the finer points of gardening with Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy, Wentworth walks until he arrives at the small harbour. A stylish motor yacht anchors beside a sleek Bénéteau sailing yacht.
Curious the young man walks towards ships. His approach comes to an abrupt halt when suddenly a figure ascends out of the belly of the sailing yacht. Wentworth is shocked to face Mr. Laurie who stares bewildered at the surprise visitor. His outfit is ruffled and his clothes are sweat-stained. Both men blush but force themselves to act normal.
Composed Hugh Laurie welcomes Wentworth Morgan and enquires after the young man’s family. When Wentworth assures him that everyone is well, thank you, the next question is about Wentworth’s spring break.
Their awkward conversation is interrupted when Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy show Wentworth’s aunt and uncle the harbour, and the whole party meets up with the two flustered men. Surprisingly Mr. Laurie greets Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey in a most charming way and offers to continue the tour of the isle.
“Do you enjoy playing golf, Mr. Dempsey?”
“Why yes, when I find the time to do so.”
Mr. Laurie insists on showing them the moderate golf court and they make their way through the garden to inspect the court. Wentworth and Mrs. Dempsey walk slower than the two men and so they can easily watch the interaction between Hugh Laurie and Patrick Dempsey.
“Is this the proud Mr. Laurie?” is her question to her nephew. “He is all ease and politeness.”
“I don’t know what brought about this change in character,” answers Wentworth.
The rest of the island is as beautiful as the part they already saw and the three visitors do not tire to compliment Mr. Laurie on the house, the garden and the beach. When Hugh Laurie invites for a light repast, they readily agree and so they are seated on the patio overlooking the sea.
Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey chat with the housekeeper and her husband, who takes care of the garden. With a strange feeling Wentworth watches the scene. He cannot help but feeling some regret for refusing Mr. Laurie, for the man he has been able to witness today is one of the most charming people he ever met.
“What do you think about the Isla de la Casilla Blanca?”
Mr. Laurie’s question has the young man turn to the side only to find the man watching him closely.
“It is a very beautiful place.”
“I would like to invite you and your aunt and uncle to stay and celebrate my sister’s birthday with us.”
“This is not only my decision to make, you will have to ask my aunt and uncle as well,” answers Wentworth.
“I already talked to them and they agreed on the term that you are alright with it. Will you consider staying for a whole day?”
Wentworth agrees but he cannot help but wonder what will become of this odd new development. It unsettles him somewhat to find Mr. Laurie so greatly changed from his past behaviour and character. This complete transformation makes it hard to judge the situation the young man finds himself in.
Mr. Laurie entertains his guests for the rest of the day and even has Mrs. Dempsey and Wentworth Morgan participate in the impromptu golf cup he organises in the evening. They are joined by Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy and the six of them enjoy their competition.
Surprisingly it is Mrs. Hennessy who wins in the end and her prize is a self-cooked dish from Mr. Laurie and a cocktail made by Mr. Hennessy. It amuses her and the three guests to watch the two men tamper in the kitchen and behind the bar.
The evening comes to an end when the party decides to retire. Wentworth stares in awe around the room he has been assigned to. The accommodations include all the amenities imaginable and the young man sits down in front of the computer to compose an e-mail to his brother.
After doing his correspondence, Wentworth Morgan settles down and quickly finds himself asleep. The many surprises of the day took their toll on him.
By Simarillion
Fandom: TV show RPS (Supernatural, Prison Break, House M.D., Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, Smallville, Coupling, Grey’s Anatomy, Numbers, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ally McBeal, Desperate Housewives, Will & Grace)
Rating: G to PG-13
Pairing: of interest: Jensen Ackles/Jared Padalecki, Wentworth Miller/Hugh Laurie
Warnings: AU, slash, M/M, evil! Chad
Beta: draft version (unbetaed)
Summary: There's nothing of greater importance than gossip. Besides marrying your children off. So when Mr. Padalecki announces the opening of a new Padalecki gallery on Third Street, it comes as no surprise that both gossip and marriage plans are on the daily schedule.
Disclaimer: None of the herein presented happenings and events are true. Everything is 100% fiction and that includes the sexuality of the characters. We don’t claim to be in the know about their relations and private affairs and we don’t make any money with the creation of this story.
Notes: The idea of a Jane Austen AU cames to me a very long time ago, with a different Austen novel as the plot and in a completely different fandom. It re-surfaced this summer though, and when talking about it with
duchess_of_hell, it soon became clear that the writing of this story would be my summer project.I absolutely adore the cast of the fic and it took me and Susi hours to decide which actor would be the right one for which character. It was great fun though, and made us laugh so hard at times, that people were looking at us funny.
[Previous Parts]
Chapter Nineteen
This time when Wentworth Morgan returns home he forgoes the phone call to his brother, messaging him instead and giving a very short and brief recapture of the evening and the confusing conversation with Mr. Laurie and Dr. Leonard.
After receiving the advice to wait and see what happens, the young man retires and does not wake before noon the next day. The combination of Mr. Laurie and Mrs. Bishop proved to be even more exhausting than a jetlag after a 24 hours flight.
The next day brings a change in the form of an unexpected visit by Dr. Robert S. Leonard who arrives shortly after breakfast with the wish to get a tour of the neighbourhood by Wentworth Morgan. The young Morgan is delighted to oblige the older man’s wish and he proposes a walk to the Wheaton Regional Park.
On their leisurely stroll through the neighbourhood the two men discuss yesterday’s company and Dr. Leonard comes up with anecdotes about Mrs. Kelly Bishop and Mr. Hugh Laurie. It amuses Wentworth to hear about the mishaps of Mr. Laurie.
They reach the park where the walkway leads them through the park past meadows and small woods. Wentworth likes talking to Dr. Leonard for the older man’s kind character appeals to him and is much more preferable to Mr. Laurie. Their talk has covered a vast variety of topics, ranging from society to Jensen Morgan’s oncoming internship at Princeton-Plainsboro.
When their talk comes to Mr. Laurie, Wentworth is surprised to hear Dr. Leonard speak in such praising words about Hugh Laurie. It appears that to his closest friends and family the abominable man is almost saint like. Wentworth’s disbelieve is countered at once with an example of Mr. Laurie’s good intentions and deeds.
“Why only recently my cousin saved a friend from entering a most disadvantageous relationship. The young man in question was from a rather horrid family I am given to understand and it was only through Mr. Laurie’s helpful and timely intervention that it was prevented that the budding relationship blossomed into more. I was told that the mother and the younger siblings were the worst of the lot.”
It is quite clear to Wentworth Morgan just who this friend and the so displeasing family are. He fights hard for composure to avoid giving away the intimacy of the story.
When he offers the probable explanation of a misunderstanding the answer to this is quickly bestowed.
“I do not believe that to be so but if it were my cousin’s victory would be slightly lessened. No, I am sure that what Hugh Laurie told me was the complete truth. He is not known to lie.”
The revelation of the nature of the separation between Mr. Padalecki and Jensen has come as a shock to Wentworth and he feels the need to stomach the information in peace. Claiming a severe case of headache, the young man excuses himself and starts his walk back to the Patterson home.
While walking he gets himself into a fine state and by the time he arrives at his destination there is a burning anger inside him. He despises Mr. Laurie more than ever before and he damns him for destroying Jensen’s future with Jared Padalecki. Mr. Hugh Laurie’s actions are inexcusable, and Wentworth wishes his family had never made the acquaintance with the despicable man.
Wentworth Morgan’s retreat to his room is interrupted by Mrs. Patterson who informs the young man about a visitor who is waiting in the living room. He is loath to delay his brooding and raving for a talk with a stranger but propriety demands he conceive his visitor.
His mood darkens further upon recognising the stranger. It is the very person who has Wentworth in such a state. Mr. Laurie.
The older man sits on the couch but gets up the moment Wentworth enters to room. There is a nervous air about him and for some time the two men face each other without any outward reaction from either of them. It is Wentworth who breaks the silence at the end.
“Good day, Mr. Laurie.”
“Good day, Mr. Morgan.”
The young Morgan refuses to sit down for he has no desire at all to remain in the room any longer than strictly necessary and furthermore he wants to clearly signal his dislike of Mr. Laurie.
Hugh Laurie remains standing as well and after some more seconds of looking from Wentworth to the door, he braces himself for whatever he came here to tell Wentworth.
“In vain I have suffered, it will not do. I can no longer keep silent about this. There are no words to express how ardently I love and admire you. It must be clear how impossible this connection between us is and that there is no way that the revelation of a bond between me and your person must lead to my social downfall. It is against my very nature and propriety but I cannot hide it anymore. I must ask you to enter into a relationship with me.”
Word after word cut into Wentworth until his anger cannot be contained anymore and he answers enraged: “I am sorry but I must decline the offer.”
“But...why are you refusing a connection that you can only benefit from?”
“From the moment we met you constantly insulted me and my family. Just now you told me that a connection between us is impossible and that it will lead to your downfall. You said that it is against your very nature. Only you can ask for a relationship and insult me at the same time,” cries Wentworth.
“Surely you are realistic enough to realize that the social standing of your family, even though your father is famous with the MTV community, has no real value here on the East Coast, and that there is no way that a relationship between yourself and my person will not be frowned upon. Never forget that this relationship would be homosexual of nature and therefore cause twice the uproar,” is Mr. Laurie’s answer.
“And what about Jensen? I could never start a relationship with you, knowing that you destroyed my brother’s hope of future happiness. Never mind what you did to poor Mr. Murray.”
“This is what you accuse me of. Based on some stories you heard from Mr. Chad Michael Murray you decided long ago that I am a scoundrel that is not worth your notice?”
This time Wentworth does not reply, preferring to glare at the other man and punish his conversational adversary with his repugnance.
“Very well, my words that are so disgusting to you were from the heart. I am sorry I bothered you and hope that you and your family will fare well in the future. I take my goodbye from you.”
As Mr. Laurie leaves the room Wentworth immediately heads for his room where he calls his brother to inform him about what he learned. For a long time the younger brother goes on and on about the events of the last 24 hours and when he comes to a closure he rants about Mr. Laurie.
“All this time he was hiding all of this inside of him. Poor Mr. Laurie.”
“How can he be poor?” asks Wentworth.
“Just imagine how hard it has to be to feel so deeply the whole time and not being able to express your emotions. I feel very sorry for Hugh Laurie.”
“Only you can feel sorry for the person who is at fault for Mr. Padalecki leaving you.”
Jensen Morgan replies that he is sure that if Mr. Padalecki’s feelings had been strong enough not even Mr. Laurie would have been able to be successful with his machinations. Jensen Morgan concludes that apparently Jared Padalecki had not been emotionally invested in him, and therefore it had been easy to manipulate the young man.
Wentworth Morgan once more makes the attempt to defend Mr. Jared Padalecki but Jensen insists on being done with the topic, and so the brothers talk some more about Dr. Leonard and his promise to help Jensen Morgan with his internship, and their plans for New Year’s Eve.
After the phone call to New York Wentworth avoids the other residents of the house. He remains in his room for the afternoon where he prepares for the evening and the party at the house of friends of the Pattersons. Only David Hatcher braves the moodiness and spends some time with his friend, talking about the people they are going to meet.
New Year’s Eve is rather uneventful this time but Wentworth enjoys the time with the older Pattersons and with his friend. He is rather grateful that Mrs. Bishop and Mr. Laurie are not part of the crowd but then again they belong to a superior circle of society. At midnight Wentworth Morgan sends his wishes to family and friends and informs them that he will call the next day after breakfast.
The last days of the holidays the young man returns to his family in Santa Monica where he is reunited with Jensen as well and finally the young men get the chance to talk about all the information face to face. The older Morgan brother admits that Mr. Laurie’s behaviour hurt him more than he revealed at first, but he also assures his younger brother that he does not want Wentworth to tell the tabloids about Mr. Hugh Laurie’s proposition, in order to seek retribution.
On the last day before the two brothers have to return to university Wentworth Morgan receives an e-mail that surprises and angers him, both at the same time. Curiosity gets the better of him at the end though and so he opens the message from Mr. Laurie.
From: Prof. Dr. Hugh Laurie (hugh.laurie@harvard.edu)
Date: Saturday, 5th of January 2008
To: Wentworth Miller
Subject: Pride & Prejudice
Dear Mr. Wentworth Miller,
When I left the home of the Pattersons that afternoon I was very much enraged about the accusations directed at me. I will in the course of this e-mail explain the reasoning behind my actions.
First I will address the matter of the connection between you brother and my dear friend Mr. Jared Padalecki. It had been quite clear from the Mr. Padalecki’s arrival at the opening of the gallery that he was very interested in you older brother and he did not fail to express his liking and admiration. Unfortunately the enthusiasm displayed by your brother was not mentionable. Even during our stay in Las Vegas, the affection was more of a brotherly, friend-like nature than of a romantic one.
Taking into account the abominable way your mother, younger siblings and even sometimes your father, acted I do not feel any regret for advising my friend to break off all contact with your older brother. It has happened in the past already that Mr. Padalecki got emotionally involved with a person that only acted out of deceitful reasons.
There is only one thing I regret doing in the dealings with your brother and that is the concealing of your brother’s presence in New York these holidays. It was not the right thing to do but there is nothing to be done about it now and so I will close this case with the statement that the end of any engagement between my friend and your brother can only be an advantage.
Secondly I want to address the affairs that involve me and Mr. Murray. I am not aware of all the things Mr. Murray accused me of but I can assure you that this man is of a vicious nature and that he has to be dealt with very carefully.
He used to be some kind of brother-in-law to me and my younger sister for he was the son of my father’s lover after my mother’s death. After my father died it was upon me to take care of the family and the family business. Mr. Murray made it very clear that he did not care for working in the family company and asked for a monetary compensation instead.
I was sure that this would be the last time I would see Mr. Murray but unfortunate fate had us cross our paths at a latter time once more. My younger sister, Alexis, spent some time during the holidays with friends on Martha’s Vinyard at our house. When I joined them earlier than was planned, I discovered her in the arms of Mr. Murray.
She told me at once about the elopement plans the two had made and I was able to talk her out of this before any more damage could be done. After this incident I did not meet Mr. Murray before that evening at the club in Santa Monica.
For any verification on this story you might ask Dr. Robert S. Leonard for he was present when this happened. He will talk with you about Mr. Murray’s and my shared past.
I once more want to apologize for inconveniencing you with my declaration and wish you all the best for your future.
Kind regards,
Hugh Laurie
Wentworth Morgan has to reread the message again and then he calls his older brother to let him read the e-mail as well. The content is so surprising that the young man is inclined to discredit the words written.
“But Mr. Murray always appeared to be so charming. It is hard to believe that this is true.”
“What reason would he have to lie about that after admitting to his horrendous actions concerning you and Mr. Padalecki? Furthermore the revelation harms his sister’s reputation. I believe it to be true,” argues Wentworth.
“Maybe Mr. Murray was just misguided and did not mean to cause the harm he almost did?”
“You can’t have them both be good!” laughs Wentworth,” There is only so much good in them both that it is enough for one man and I for my part am inclined to believe it is Mr. Laurie.”
It is decided that they will not tell their mother about the content to ensure that Ms. Alexis Laurie would not have to suffer from bad press. The secret amuses the two brothers for it feels very much like being in the know about a state secret that has to be well-protected.
Chapter Twenty
When their sister Charisma talks about last night’s outing to Rosenbaum’s it comes as a surprise to everyone to hear that Chad Michael Murray had ended the relationship with Ms. Heigl and was back working at the bar.
This news has Sandra Morgan gush about the young man’s good looks and charms for she remembers with satisfaction the besmirching tales Mr. Murray told about Hugh Laurie.
Charisma then describes her friends’ plans of going to Tijuana, Mexico, during spring break. She concludes her tale with the wish to join in the party. This causes a mass reaction at the breakfast table. Whereas Tom Morgan throws in that he wants to join in as well and Mrs. Morgan agrees that it would be a very nice idea to go to Mexico, Mr. Morgan adamantly refuses to allow any of his younger children to go to Tijuana without proper supervision.
The finality with which Jeffrey D. Morgan refuses to let either of the youngest siblings go away for spring break, calms Wentworth somewhat for Charisma eagerly points out that Mr. Murray is to accompany the group of young people and therefore an older, more responsible person will be present.
As Mr. Morgan once more forbids Charisma and Tom Morgan to join their friends, the young woman starts histrionics and wails for the next hours to come.
Before the wailing stops though Wentworth and Jensen have to leave for Palo Alto. They agree that it is good that their father will not be moved on the topic of Mexico and contemplate if it might be a recommendable idea to inform at least their parents about Mr. Murray’s true nature. In the end they decide to wait and see how things are going to develop.
College starts again the next day, and studies and exams take up most of the brothers’ time. There are occasional updates from Santa Monica, and Wentworth watches the developments in the Mexico business with growing horror. Both his mother and Charisma Morgan are slowly but consistently wearing Jeffrey D. Morgan down and it is only a matter of time before he will cave and surrender to the female superiority.
As projects and exams increase in number, the young man thinks less and less about the problems back at home. Studying and revisions take up almost all of his time. With a little bit of envy, Wentworth watches his two friends Ali Larter and Leonard Roberts grow closer with every day. With increasing frequency he has to think about Mr. Laurie’s offer.
This unexpected development confuses Wentworth Morgan for more than one reason. There is of course the obvious, Hugh Laurie being an abominable man who does not deserve any other but hateful thoughts. But what has the young man really in a state is the sudden interest in men he notices.
When Wentworth talked with his older brother about Jensen’s preferences it had been one of the things that he had been thinking about in abundance and now he finds himself finding an answer to the past questions. Apparently he can be attracted to a man as well.
Close to the semester break a surprise excites Wenworth Morgan. His aunt calls him and invites him to a sailing cruise in the Caribbean. The offer of a weeklong stay on his aunt and uncle’s yacht is a fine prospect that he readily agrees to, and so preparations are made for Wentworth to join his relatives in Miami Florida where they will depart for the Caribbean Sea.
After the last exam is written the young man helps his brother pack for a five day trip to Princeton-Plainsboro where Dr. Robert S. Leonard has organised a very short internship with the paediatric department.
When the older brother is safely sent off, Wentworth heads for his own vacation. The journey is not worth being mentioned and soon he finds himself onboard the luxurious sailing yacht and on his way into the Caribbean. Never before has he been to Central America and Wentworth is curious to visit as many islands as possible on his seven day sailing trip.
They enjoy particularly fine weather and the route that Patrick Dempsey planned beforehand takes them past many private islands and deserted spots. There is an energy in the people and life that fascinates the trio and after the first day they keep from going any touristy areas or places and instead anchor and sail in lesser known regions.
Chapter Twenty-One
On their fourth day they leave a harbour with the recommendation to visit a close by island. The name of the secret treasure is Isla de la Casilla Blanca and the residence situated there is called Netherfield by the locals.
After two hours of sailing they arrive at a small isle that has to be the most happily situated place in the whole world. They are amazed about the beauty of nature and the harmony between nature and man-made construction. The place is absolute perfection.
It is decided after some debate to anchor in the small bay and take a look around. They have been reassured that the owner is away and will not visit any time soon. When in inquiring after security measures, it is explained that there are permanently servants living on the premises that willingly show visitors around when being asked.
The sand at the beach is pearly white and Wentworth has to admit that he would love nothing more but to remain on this island for the rest of his life. There is a tranquillity about the place that appeals greatly to the young man.
They find the housekeeper of the island and the house. Mrs. Hennessy is a kind Creole woman of advanced age. She shows Wentworth and his relatives around the house, pointing out the highlights and the more valued possessions. The young man notices that the paintings and the artwork on display are a surprisingly high quality.
Just as Mrs. Hennessy explains one of the statues in the recreation area, Wentworth recognises the person on a photo. The man portrayed is clearly Mr. Hugh Laurie at the same age as Wentworth Morgan. Surprised and curious he studies the photo more closely.
The capture shows Mr. Laurie together with a beautiful woman who smiles contently at the photographer, holding a baby in her arms. The blue eyes are all the same on young Hugh Laurie, on the woman and on the baby. Next to this photo is another picture but this time it is a slightly older Hugh Laurie with a youngster Chad Michael Murray and a little girl.
“This is the owner and his young sister,” explains Mrs. Hennessy.
“Mr. Hugh Laurie is the owner of this private island?”
“Why yes, of course he is. There is no better employer than him. In all my years working for the Laurie family, and I was already working for Mrs. Laurie before she died in that dreadful accident, I never heard a cross word from him. Not once.”
Wentworth took the picture with Chad Murray in his hand to take a closer look at the expression on their faces. There is none of the later contempt or conceit in their expressions. Young Mr. Laurie has his arms around adolescent Mr. Murray and holds his sister’s hand.
“Who is the other young man on this photo?” is Mrs. Dempsey’s question.
“The young man on this picture is Mr. Murray. He used to live with Mr. Laurie and his sister but he turned out to be very wild.”
Mrs. Dempsey’s question about the whereabouts of the owner are answered with the disclosure that Mr. Laurie with his sister and party of friends is to arrive the next day for Ms. Laurie’s birthday party. She happily describes in detail the party planned and tells them about the motor yacht which was especially commissioned for the young woman.
The sudden attack of anxiousness is lightened by the information that the party is only supposed to arrive the next day. When Mrs. Hennessy offers to show them the garden and the small harbour, the group eagerly follows her outside and into the immense layout.
They marvel at the tropical lushness of the plants and the exquisite design of the garden.
While Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey discuss the finer points of gardening with Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy, Wentworth walks until he arrives at the small harbour. A stylish motor yacht anchors beside a sleek Bénéteau sailing yacht.
Curious the young man walks towards ships. His approach comes to an abrupt halt when suddenly a figure ascends out of the belly of the sailing yacht. Wentworth is shocked to face Mr. Laurie who stares bewildered at the surprise visitor. His outfit is ruffled and his clothes are sweat-stained. Both men blush but force themselves to act normal.
Composed Hugh Laurie welcomes Wentworth Morgan and enquires after the young man’s family. When Wentworth assures him that everyone is well, thank you, the next question is about Wentworth’s spring break.
Their awkward conversation is interrupted when Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy show Wentworth’s aunt and uncle the harbour, and the whole party meets up with the two flustered men. Surprisingly Mr. Laurie greets Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey in a most charming way and offers to continue the tour of the isle.
“Do you enjoy playing golf, Mr. Dempsey?”
“Why yes, when I find the time to do so.”
Mr. Laurie insists on showing them the moderate golf court and they make their way through the garden to inspect the court. Wentworth and Mrs. Dempsey walk slower than the two men and so they can easily watch the interaction between Hugh Laurie and Patrick Dempsey.
“Is this the proud Mr. Laurie?” is her question to her nephew. “He is all ease and politeness.”
“I don’t know what brought about this change in character,” answers Wentworth.
The rest of the island is as beautiful as the part they already saw and the three visitors do not tire to compliment Mr. Laurie on the house, the garden and the beach. When Hugh Laurie invites for a light repast, they readily agree and so they are seated on the patio overlooking the sea.
Mr. and Mrs. Dempsey chat with the housekeeper and her husband, who takes care of the garden. With a strange feeling Wentworth watches the scene. He cannot help but feeling some regret for refusing Mr. Laurie, for the man he has been able to witness today is one of the most charming people he ever met.
“What do you think about the Isla de la Casilla Blanca?”
Mr. Laurie’s question has the young man turn to the side only to find the man watching him closely.
“It is a very beautiful place.”
“I would like to invite you and your aunt and uncle to stay and celebrate my sister’s birthday with us.”
“This is not only my decision to make, you will have to ask my aunt and uncle as well,” answers Wentworth.
“I already talked to them and they agreed on the term that you are alright with it. Will you consider staying for a whole day?”
Wentworth agrees but he cannot help but wonder what will become of this odd new development. It unsettles him somewhat to find Mr. Laurie so greatly changed from his past behaviour and character. This complete transformation makes it hard to judge the situation the young man finds himself in.
Mr. Laurie entertains his guests for the rest of the day and even has Mrs. Dempsey and Wentworth Morgan participate in the impromptu golf cup he organises in the evening. They are joined by Mr. and Mrs. Hennessy and the six of them enjoy their competition.
Surprisingly it is Mrs. Hennessy who wins in the end and her prize is a self-cooked dish from Mr. Laurie and a cocktail made by Mr. Hennessy. It amuses her and the three guests to watch the two men tamper in the kitchen and behind the bar.
The evening comes to an end when the party decides to retire. Wentworth stares in awe around the room he has been assigned to. The accommodations include all the amenities imaginable and the young man sits down in front of the computer to compose an e-mail to his brother.
After doing his correspondence, Wentworth Morgan settles down and quickly finds himself asleep. The many surprises of the day took their toll on him.