Nights Like This

Chapter 25

The first performance of 'Pride and Prejudice' was two nights later to a standing room only theater. Marco's first appearance on stage got a big hand. He and Agatha played remarkably well together.

Alexei's scene where Mr. Collins, refused by Elizabeth, proposes to Charlotte, also received applause. The pompous Collins took a long time explaining his desire to marry to what he presumed was a surprised and grateful Charlotte, while she subtly encouraged him to get on with it. Alexei held Metty's hand, a move not rehearsed. His new-found warmth for Metty strengthened his performance. When she accepted, he lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her hand, also not in the script. The audience applauded loudly.

Afterwards, the cast changed into their clothes as family and friends came backstage to congratulate them. Ava congratulated Metty and Agatha. She saw Jessica.

"Jessica, you were outstanding as Elizabeth. You're quite the actress."

"Thank you, Mrs. Reynolds."

Someone knocked at the door. Tonya opened it to Dr. Wilson and the president of the College, Dr. LeMars.

"Photographers are here. They would like pictures of Don Marco and Don Alexei with their partners. And the rest of the cast."

Madison walked forward.

"No, they want Metty. She plays opposite Alexei." Madison stiffened. "They want the rest of the cast later. Please come to the stage when you've finished changing.

She hurried to change and went to the stage. Alexei and Marco were there with Dr. Wilson and Dr. LeMars. Alexei motioned her over to his side.

"Have you met Metty Griffin, Dr. LeMars?"

"Hello," said Lemars, then turned back to Marco.

"Congratulations on your performance, Marco. If I can help you or Alexei, please contact me directly." He handed Marco and Alexei cards.

"Thank you. We have enjoyed our time here, said Marco."

Agatha hurried onstage and joined them. The photographers arranged the group for several pictures. Reporters asked a few questions. The rest of the cast and crew drifted in and posed for pictures.

After the news people left, the group began to break up and leave. Jessica walked over to Marco.

"The show was great," she said. "I didn't know you were such a fine actor."

"I have a lot of talents," he said.

Alexei motioned Metty slightly to one side.

"Metty, do you have a date for the Winter Dance yet?"

Metty's lips quirked. She shook her head. "No.

"Would you care to go with me?" he asked.

Before she could say yes, Jessica said, "So third time is the charm." Metty looked at her, puzzled.

"Couple of girls have already turned him down." She smirked at Metty. "He's moving down the list to his third choice. Or is it fourth?"

Alexei glared at Jessica. Metty turned back to Alexei. She said, "I'd be glad to go with you, Alexei. You got lucky when you asked me."

He grinned and whispered. "Fortunately, the others said no." He spoke in a normal voice, "I'll call you. Some of the cast is going to Chevalier's for a late dinner. Will you come with me?"

"Yes to that, too," said Metty. "My mother and my grandmother are here. I want to talk to them first."

"Would you introduce me?" he asked.

She nodded, and moved towards the steps. Alexei followed her and Marco hurried after them. Jessica scowled as she watched Alexei and Marco chat with the women for several minutes. At last they all walked out together, Marco talking to Mrs. Magyari and Alexei and Metty holding hands. Jessica, who had not been invited, pushed her way offstage. Madison trailed after her.