AN: This is an idea proposed by adamsforthought at "Anna and Mr Bates reading Room" on tumblr. There are 23 questions to ask "Baby" Bates in honour of his 90 birthday, which was yesterday. It's just brilliant.
Instead of answering those questions, I've used them as prompts for small drabbles.
I'd like to thank everybody at "Anna and Mr Bates reading Room" for being an amazing group of talented authors, and specially Terrie for the encouragement. I enjoy the stories very very much.
Disclaimer: Not mine. Everything belongs to J. Fellowes. [I haven't read any of the answers posted on the site. If there's a coincidence, it's just that: a coincidence.]
1. Name
"Boy!"
He hears her from he is sitting, a book open on his knobby knees, and he knows he has to answer to his mother. Only, he can't. Just one more line. Just one small paragraph. He just needs to know what exactly is going to happen to the captain.
"Boy!"
He wants to answer. In a minute, Mum. He doesn't, as the vessel keeps its terrifying journey and the crew waits for their next encounter.
"William John Bates, will you come to supper?!"
He freezes. No matter how terrible the wrath of the sea creature can be, it will be nothing compared to her mother's use of his full name.
"Coming, Mum!" He cries. Remembering to put a finger between the pages, he takes the precious book he has borrowed in his arms and runs towards the cottage, the smell of baked pork and potatoes making him realise he is really hungry.
Prompt: We know your daddy would have opted to call you Kumquat but what is your real name?