Most Ardently

by Gabe Cole Novoa

The grin that spread over Oliver’s face was unstoppable. A lightness flooded his chest, and a giddying thought formed in his mind: I can do this. Neither Bingley nor Darcy had made the connection between him and the second-eldest Bennet they met last night. “I was just asking Oliver if he’d be amenable to showing us around the fair,” Bingley said to Darcy. “He’s attended every year since he was a child, so he’s quite familiar with the goings-on here.” He. Oliver couldn’t stop smiling. It was such a simple thing, but the rightness of it was a balm. Being recognized for who he was brought him a euphoria like nothing else he had ever experienced. You see me, he thought, and it made him so happy he wanted to laugh out loud. “That would be helpful,” Darcy said, his gaze settling on Oliver. “I’m shocked there isn’t a map readily available. This fair is much larger than I had anticipated.” “But only if it wouldn’t be a bother,” Bingley added quickly. “We’d completely understand if you weren’t able to show us around.” The redhead looked at Oliver pleadingly, a sheepish smile making him look even more boyish than usual. It was easy to see why Jane fancied him. “I can do it.” The words were out of his mouth before he could think better of it. “It might be nice to enjoy the fair with some new companions.” Bingley clapped and grinned widely. “Perfect! Where to now?”