Chapter One
There is one minor spoiler for Series 5 Episode 8. It doesn't give away much of the plot just a point of interest. So if you haven't seen the new series yet, you can probably read this without too much worry.
Elsie Hughes walked down the stairs to her office with an almost smug expression on her face. She'd just completed her rounds for the morning and was pleased to find everything in perfect shape. Pride ran through her. Her ability to embrace change and new things meant she was able to run the household to her exacting standards with vastly fewer staff members.
Had anyone asked her even a few months ago she would have thought it impossible. However, today's rounds had proven that not to be the case. She fought the smile that threatened as she imagined Mr. Carson's disbelief when she shared her accomplishment. Should she tell him now or wait until their evening glass of sherry?
The advantage to waiting to the evening was there was a better than average chance her success would annoy him. Having him all to herself would mean she could tease him, a pastime she seemed to enjoy more and more of late. She enjoyed it even more when he turned the tables on her and almost flirted. Those moments seem to happen more frequently of late.
She wondered if this trend would continue now that they would no longer be separated for at least three months each year. Lord Grantham's announcement about no longer keeping a housekeeper for Grantham House meant she would be making the annual trek to London with him. More time with Mr. Carson was something she looked forward to.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the voice of the very man she was thinking about. She paused, listening to what he was saying, "Mr. Barrow, I'll be turning over things to you for the next few days."
The unctuous voice of Thomas filled the gap, "Are you taking a few days off Mr. Carson? I hope everything is alright."
She smiled to herself imagining his face at the impertinence of the question, "Everything is fine Mr. Barrow. His Lordship has asked me to oversee a few repairs at the London house. I will be travelling there in the morning. I trust you will able to handle things here in my absence?"
"Of course, Mr. Carson."
Elsie took a step into the alcove not wanting Thomas to see her. She thought about Mr. Carson in London and wondered briefly if he would stay at the house or elsewhere. A secret smile crossed face, she wondered. Without a second thought she turned back to the stairs to go upstairs, perhaps a brief chat with the Lady of the house was in order.