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"You're too persistent for your own good."
"So I've been told."
"I promise I'll think about it and let you know. What else did you have to talk to me about?"
"Well, I talked to Richard this morning. I think he needs to be told about everything that happened to you, and what’s going on now. If Wickham and Collins go to trial, it will be in the papers and on the news, and he still pays attention to what’s going on in Boston."
"You're probably right," Georgiana responded softly.
"He loves you, Georgie. If anything, it's one more person in your corner, supporting you." He sensed her hesitation, and had a feeling he knew its cause. "I can tell him if you want. It’s up to you.”
"Yes, I–I would rather you told him. I'm sorry, I know it's not your responsibility, but—"
"I don't mind. It might be better if he hears it from me."
"Thanks, Will. I appreciate it." She paused. "Speaking of Boston, I was thinking that at some point, it might be easier if I'm staying there. I guess I should wait to hear what Maggie thinks."
"Has she been in contact at all?"
"No, but I'm expecting a call from her later today or tomorrow. They were sending the detectives into New York to look for Wickham over the weekend, and she told me she'd update me as soon as she knew anything." She paused. “You haven't said anything about South Carolina."
"I know."
"How did it go?"
How to answer that? "Um…it wasn't what I expected."
"Oh. Is that good?"
"It wasn't all bad. I saw Elizabeth, we talked a little... That's about it. I really can't say if anything has changed. I think it's too soon."
"Maybe that means there's still hope."
He closed his eyes and sighed. "Maybe."
* * *
On Thursday morning,Will stood at the windows of his office at RJD Properties, taking in the view of the city. He was waiting for Stephanie Hanscom to arrive; a car had been sent to her hotel, and she was due at any moment. Will would give her a tour of the office, introduce her to his VP of operations here in Boston, and give her a quick overview of RJD's interests. He wanted her to have some knowledge of FRD Design's parent company.
Richard had taken advantage of Will's offer and decided to remain home with Lauren. They’d had a lengthy discussion on the phone this morning, and Will had told him everything about what happened to Georgiana on New Year's Eve, as well as everything that was happening now. Initially, Richard had been stunned into silence, and when he finally spoke, he sounded shocked.
"My God, Will. Why didn't you tell me about any of this sooner?"
"I'm sorry, but Georgiana didn't want you to know. Really, the only reason you're finding out now is because it's all coming to a head. With Wickham and Collins both here and locked up, things will probably start moving a little faster."
Maggie Harper had called Georgiana Tuesday to let her know the authorities had caught up with Wickham in New York. He was arrested and processed into the system there and would be brought back to Boston. Depending on his representation, she expected his arraignment to be held early next week. From what Georgiana had been told, the detectives had uncovered a large stash of Rohypnol, often referred to as the date rape drug, in his hotel room. They’d also confiscated a laptop and some additional pictures, some of which were similar to those he’d taken of Georgiana. The police were starting the process of trying to figure out who the women were, and trying to connect Wickham to any past reports of unresolved sexual assaults, as he’d apparently lived in Boston for quite some time.
"I wish I’d known,” Richard said. “I would've done something for her, been there for her in some way."
"I've been with her, and Alice has known all along. She's been a big help."
"If either of you need me foranything, all you have to do is ask. You know that, right?"
"We know. Thanks, Rich."
"All right, I'll let you go. Don't scare Stephanie too much with that Darcy scowl. Make her feel welcome."
"Shut up."
