The Smile

XI - Closeted relationship

Alex and Elizabeth stops. Facing the wooden door which indicates Madam Eldestein's office. Lisa opens, smiling at her friend.

"I'd like to see Ryder, only, this time."

The concerned turns at Elizabeth, searching a meaning to this. But the other one was also lost. Lisa had never acted like this. Dr Darcy goes away in silence.

"Sit, please."

Alex responds. Lisa sits in front of her. Crossing arms and never looses a single glance at the concerned, looking for any sign of weakness.

"Tell me. What are your thoughts on Dr Elizabeth Darcy ?"

The tone in her voice wasn't even accusatory. She was a bit nice, and curious. But, Alex thought it was ironic, she follows :

"I.. She's a very skillful dentist and she thought me plenty techniques. She's a help."

Too much words in such a short moment. Lisa was fascinated by Alex's shyness.

"I heard you too were getting along very well."

Silence.

"What do you mean?

- I am just thinking of you two as two close employees..

- Are you saying ..?"

Lisa stands up.

"I know things.

- I am begging you, please, don't ..

- Eliza is crazy about you. I think you're too. Go get her."

Alex is knocked out of surprise : she had never imagined the director shipping their couple, and being supportive and friendly.

"Please, be quiet and discreet.

- I...

- You'll thank me later. Now go back to work."

Lisa displays a full smile. Her wrinkles under her superior lip underline the lost smirk she once had, when she was younger and careless. Now the smirk had lets the grin draw her face.

Alex gets out of the office. Elizabeth runs at her.

"What did she say..?

- She's protecting us.

- What ?

- But, she doesn't know about..

- Okay, perfect then !

- Wait.. it means she knew about..? I mean.. before...

- Yes, darling, she knows since the beginning..

- Since..?

- Since I blushed when she mentioned you, Elizabeth whispers."

Alex was shocked again.

In a sudden, Madam Eldestein comes at them. Lifting files in a hand, she yells at Elizabeth, whose tried to hide in her blue blouse :

"Aren't you forgetting something ?

- I..

- The competition you started. I need results.

- For sure I will..

- Do as I say."

Ryder manages hardly not to explose of laughter when noticing Elizabeth's attitude. Perhaps roles were exchanged. Now, Dr Darcy was more vulnerable. Alex discovered a shy one.