Servants Series 5

by ss9

Is this happy ever after, for Flora and Walter, Andrew and Rebecca? And will the mystery surrounding George Cosmo's past finally be revealed?

1. Episode 1

The next morning a still tired Flora Ryan rolled over in bed trying desperately to escape and ignore the gently shaking as Walter tried futilely to wake her up, chuckling slightly to himself, as Flora tried everything to evade him, even stuffing her head under the pillow in an effort to shield her eyes from the dim morning light.

"Come on now Flora, wakey wakey!" Jarvis hissed in her ear. "You've only half an hour before breakfast, I've already let you sleep in far too long."

Groaning in annoyance Flora finally gave in, huffing slightly she flung back the covers practically rolling out of bed and crashing into the already dressed butler, who immediately wrapped his arms round her waist in order to steady her. "Whoa love there's no need to batter me about just cause…." Walter began but an already irritated Flora cut him off.

"Well if you're going to stand right in the way, what the hell do you expect? Walter move!" She added exasperated, finally pushing her dishevelled curls out of her face as she tried to free herself from the butler's grip.

Chuckling slightly at her bad mood, Walter released her grudgingly moving to her easy chair by the fire and watching in fascination as she began to wash and dress. After a few minutes of this close scrutiny the housekeeper turned to face the smirking butler.

"What pray is so fascinating?" Flora demanded as she continued to force her wayward curls into some semblance of a bun before pinning one of her lace caps over the top, then moving to her cupboard to select her dress for the day.

Sighing softly to himself Jarvis stood suddenly and moved to stand beside her, holding her dress whilst she stepped into it, his now practised hands making quick work of the many fastenings; unable to resist nuzzling into her neck as his hands slid round her waist holding her firmly against him. Kissing his way up her neck, he nibbled softly at her earlobe causing Flora to chuckle slightly.

"If you're so hungry Walter, let's go down to breakfast, I rather like my ears as they are!"

"Are you sure?" He added saucily, turning her round to face him, and raising an eyebrow lasciviously.

"Since you made me get up and dress, I'm sure!" Flora snapped back, playfully swiping at his wandering hands, and moving decidedly towards the door a disappointed butler following in her wake

When they arrived in the dining room, it was already full. The rest of the senior staff were seated round the table, all except Frank who unbeknownst to them was securely ensconced in the coal cellar. The sight of the butler and housekeeper arriving late and together raised a few eyebrows and caused a few valets to snigger slightly into their tea, but any louder expression of smuttiness was suddenly curtailed when the staff faced the full fury of not only one Corey but two; Emily's stony countenance mirroring that of her son from across the room.

Settling down in the available seats, Flora studiously avoided the amused glances that were being thrown in their direction as she dutifully poured Walter his tea, however she was unable to avoid Emily's penetrating gaze. Glancing up at the older woman, she noted with some satisfaction the pleased expression on her face, and so gladly returned her smile. Taking this as an opening for conversation Emily moved to the spare seat next to her son and opposite Flora, leaning forward conspiratorially she began to speak. "Overslept this morning did we?"

"No been up for hours!" Walter replied without thinking, wishing suddenly he could bite back the words as soon as they were spoken, as the surrounding servants all turned to stare at him in amazement; whilst Flora slowly turned from flushed pink to bright crimson as she imagined the lurid thoughts running through their minds. "I mean I've been up, had some paper work to finish…." Jarvis began but stopped when he realised there was no way to rescue the situation and so settled for attacking his breakfast with gusto, whilst the blushing housekeeper settled for sipping her tea.

"Really?" Emily began unsure as to she should respond to such a frank admission by her only son, before settling for ignoring the comment completely, and turning to chat to the housekeeper. "Flora my dear, have you heard about the dinner service?" She began stopping only when the shocked and panicking housekeeper began to choke on a mouthful of tea.

For a second nobody moved but then Felix leant across and patted Flora firmly on the back, stopping her from choking; after a second Flora managed to regain her composure, and looked up at Emily with a strained expression, one that Emily took for confusion.

"Why much of it has been smashed, one the maids found it early this morning all over the floor, what on earth could have happened?" She asked most earnestly.

"Urghhhhhhhhhhh." Flora began, glancing over at Walter a slight pleading expression on her face.

"I'm afraid it's my fault I should have alerted someone last night!" Walter cut in, causing his mother to turn and look at him in surprise, an expression shared by the housekeeper who was puzzled as to what story he would come out with this time.

"I stayed in here last night to finish my brandy and cigar, and in order to let the smell out I opened one of the windows and I forgot to shut it properly, who knows maybe it was a fox or even that darn peacock, but after I was walking back from my office late last night I remembered to check the latch. The room was a mess then, but it seemed pointless to deal with it so late at night and then this morning it completely slipped my mind."

For a moment nobody commented, however glancing round the room Jarvis could see the mixture of smirks and raised eyebrows. Whether that was due to the suggestion he didn't inform anyone this morning because he had forgotten rather then he was otherwise occupied or because they doubted the veracity if his entire story he could only guess.

"Humpf!" Cut in Mrs Diggins. "That silly peacock is becoming a darn nuisance, first waking good Christian people from their rest, then frightening Mr Benjamin and now midnight raids on the house. Mr Jarvis if you do not decide to do something about that blasted bird, then I will not be held responsible for my actions the next time I see it!" She added getting stormily to her feet and slamming her teacup down into the saucer.

Pausing by the door the lady's maid turned back to the rest of the staff, who of course immediately hid their sniggers and smirks and became suddenly fascinated by the contents of their plates and teacups. "Oh I know what you are all thinking, idiot grins on idiot faces, well on the day one of you gets savaged by a rabid peacock don't go coming to me for sympathy or support, if I had my way that bird would be shot and served up for Christmas lunch!" And with that parting retort she flung open the door and stormed out into the corridor.

For a moment nobody broke the silence that had descended, squirming slightly in his seat Jarvis smiled briefly at his mother before turning to talk to Flora. Leaning in closer he passed her his now empty teacup, taking the opportunity to whisper in her ear as she automatically refilled it for him. "If you could spare the time this afternoon Mrs Ryan, may I suggest we take a walk round the gardens, after all lots to talk about and I'm sure the fresh air will do us good."

"Hmmmmm fresh air?" Flora countered. "Do you have any detours planned?" She added smiling up at him teasingly, letting her fingers brush against his as she handed him his teacup, her grin widening when Walter's hand began to shake spilling tea into the saucer. "I hear the view from the gazebo is particular fine at the moment, what with the lake being frozen and the fresh snowfall last night, somewhat chilly but I'm sure we'll think of something!"

"Well…yes…" Jarvis stuttered slightly shocked by her brazenness in front of the rest of the staff, his disbelief growing when under the table he felt her trace the tip of her foot up and down his calf. Shifting uncomfortably in his seat he tried desperately to ignore her and concentrate on eating his breakfast and drinking his tea, however every time he raised the cup to his lips Flora's foot would drift higher causing his hand to shake uncontrollably.

"Walter my dear boy are you ill?" Emily asked suddenly after the butler had developed such a bout of shakes that he spilt hot tea all over his bacon and eggs.

"I'm fine!" He replied through clenched teeth.

"Yes nothing a breath of fresh air won't cure I'm sure!" Flora added, giggling into her own cup of tea.

That was the last straw for Walter and he hurriedly got to his feet, downing his tea and making a move towards the door, however at the last minute he had a sudden flash of brilliance, unexpectedly he leant forward and planted a quick kiss on Flora's cheek. The shocked housekeeper went rigid in her seat; unable to believe Walter had acted like that in front of the entire staff. Glowering slightly she ignored the broad knowing smiles of the staff around her and turned to glare at the smirking butler who was by now at the door.

"Walter Corey, how dare you…."

Ignoring her exclamation the butler laughed out loud, calling out to her as he made his way to his office. "See you later then dear!"

After a rather subdued lower servants breakfast, where when Will asked Adams politely to pass him the jug of milk he did so without any sort of derogatory remark, much to everyone's silent surprise, the under-butler made his excuses and left the table to report to Mr Jarvis.

He finds him as he expected, sitting in his office and scribbling furiously in his book of figures, working his abacus every now and then and tutting when he makes a mess from writing down an incorrect amount. On hearing Adams' quiet tapping on the door, Jarvis only manages a brief glance up before returning to inking his quill

Jarvis: Mr Adams, good morning. I trust you slept well?

Adams stepping in and shutting the door behind him: Morning, sir. I….yes, very well. As always.

With a subtle snort of amusement, the butler blots his page before shutting the book and dropping it into a drawer, followed quickly by the abacus. He scrapes his chair back and stands, hovering behind his desk as he tugs at his cuffs and smoothes down his jacket

Jarvis smiling broadly and walking over to his mirror to check his appearance: Well, as you know Admiral and Lady Dalrimple-Sykes will be leaving this afternoon so if you could make sure everything is in order for their departure, as usual. At least that will mean two less of them upstairs to worry about, eh, Andrew?

Adams not quite sure if that was some sort of snide dig or not: Aye, sir, of course.

Jarvis finishes examining his hair then rubs his hands together, turning to the fire and stoking it as a strange icy draft blows around their feet and chills their toes to the bone.

Jarvis: Yes, I will be glad to be shot of that bloody idiot the Admiral, with all his obviously over-inflated tales of the high seas and that stupid habit of wearing his full dress uniform for dinner. And that silly mousey wife of his, now we know where Lord Julian gets it from, don't you agree Andrew?

Adams jutting his chin out and rocking on his heels: Yes sir, completely. I know Rebecca finds her totally distasteful and an utter bore to converse with.

Jarvis placing the poker by the side of the fire and staring into the flames: Yes, well.

Adams after an uneasy lapse in conversation: You don't approve, do you, sir.

Jarvis forcing a smile and lowering himself slowly into his easy chair: I won't lie and say that I do, Andrew, but I can't force you not to see her. I WON'T force you, but if you're caught….well, I will deny any knowledge. I can see she means a lot to you, but you do know it can't go anywhere don't you? If it came out, well, it would be the biggest scandal Taplows has ever seen. Well, apart from that terrible business with the second Earl, His Lordship's great grandfather, and that poor boy from the village…..

Jarvis trails off, shaking his head thoughtfully, then looks back up at Adams and sees the worry etched on his face

Adams: Yes, Mr Jarvis, I realise it can't, but I can't help it. Every time I see her, every time I'm near her, there's nothing I can do. And after last night, I was so terrified for her, scared of losing her. You may not understand sir, but…….

Jarvis quietly as a smile tugs at the corner of his mouth: I understand perfectly, Mr Adams. Perfectly. Now, best go about your business, there's enough to be done this morning and His Lordship won't be kept waiting. He is to breakfast in the Orangery, even though it's freezing cold – well, I did try to encourage him not to but if he wants to chill his silver-spooned arse to the bone in there that's his business. He stands up and stretches Silly fool. He'll only blame me afterwards too, for the fact it's winter, and that Taplows hasn't been blessed with permanent summer by the Lord Almighty himself.

Adams exhaling a genuinely amused chuckle: Indeed, sir. I will tend to him now.

Jarvis clenching his fists and frowning distastefully: Yes, if you would, while I go and sort out our little friend in the coal cellar. I can only hope that the rats down there have eaten him in the night, those disagreeable creatures do have certain cannibalistic tendencies apparently.

Adams raising his eyebrows eagerly: Do you require any assistance with Mr Keneally, sir? I'm sure I could……

Jarvis sniffing and turning the door handle: I'm sure you could, Mr Adams! But I think you've done enough, leave him to me. Don't worry, he won't be going near Lady Rebecca again, not if he wants to keep his manhood intact anyhow!

Adams before stepping through the opening door, somewhat disappointed: Aye, sir. I've leave him in your very capable hands.

Jarvis pauses in the doorway of the coal cellar, peering into the darkness for signs of movement. With a loud 'hrumph' he climbs in, shivering slightly in the frosty morning air while being careful not to touch the sides and get his jacket and waistcoat all sooty.

Jarvis barking loudly: Mr Keneally, I presume you're alive in here? More's the pity!

No answer comes, just a shadow shifting and a quiet moan, but as Jarvis walks in he moves out of the way of the slight bursting through the open door, illuminating the exact spot where Frank is lying, still half asleep and frozen stiff. Jarvis stares down at him with complete contempt and absolutely no pity, waiting only a moment before his patience has been tried a little too much

Jarvis kicking the valet firmly in the shin and hissing: Come on Keneally, wakey wakey rise and shine, my boy!

Frank groans, rolling onto his back and reflexively gripping his leg in pain. He opens his eyes just a crack, squinting in the glare of the light and putting his hand up to shield them. Frank can, however, make out Jarvis' silhouette towering above him, although he is at that moment far more concerned with his dithering, aching body and his still seeping injuries.

Frank his mouth glued together and his voice rough: Oh, ps off, will yer Jarvis, leave me be.

Jarvis: Keneally, you really know how to cause trouble, don't you? When will you ever bloody learn! You're an arrogant fool, you always were!

Frank painfully shifting himself up onto his elbow: Well I had you as a role model, didn't I, you and your damn hypocrisy, so what do you expect!

Jarvis roughly dragging Frank upright and smacking him on the side of his head: I should've known a night down here wouldn't do you a scrap of good………

Frank laughing loudly to cut into Jarvis' words: Mr Jarvis, Mr Jarvis! You and me, we're not all that different, y'know. We like attractive women, we know what we want and we have a good nose for the more elaborate of money-making swindles, none of these silly little scams Forest and Adams like to get themselves into.

Jarvis straightening up and looking away: I don't know what on earth you're referring to, Mr Keneally, so you should watch that tongue of yours!

Frank snorting in disapproval and hugging his knees: Oh, I think you do know what I mean, but don't worry mate, your secret is completely safe with me, I won't tell a soul.

Jarvis suddenly feels sick – how could he possibly know about that?

Jarvis: I'm sorry Frank, but I think we're very different, you and I. I know the meaning of hard work and loyalty, whereas you….you've never done a decent day's work in your whole stinking, sorry life Keneally, you're whole existence is one long sham!

After carrying out his morning duties to the letter, including being civil for the second time that day to Will Forest, Adams has found five minutes to check on Rebecca's whereabouts and subsequently her safety. He had told himself that his fear is irrational, especially now that Jarvis is keeping Frank firmly occupied, but even still he has to see with his own eyes that she is safe and well, even if it is from only a distance. He had woken early that morning, so after watching his lover sleep for a long moment, marvelling in her beauty, he had kissed her softly on the forehead and left, still fully clothed from the night before bar his shoes on the floor. But now he needs to see her smile and laugh again, just to let him know she is feeling fine.

It doesn't take Adams long to find her. He could hear her dainty laughter echo through the house, obviously in polite response to some thoughtless comment of Lady Caroline's, so listens up against the drawing room door to the small talk on the other side before tapping lightly and entering to 'busy himself' refilling the whiskey and brandy decanters right in Rebecca's eye line. Not a word of acknowledgement comes from the lips of either the Earl or Lady Caroline, although Lord Julian's face lights up on seeing more alcohol appearing in the room, his nerves already shattered from his marriage of only days.

Lady Rebecca, however, while perched straight-backed on the edge of her chair, tea in hand, carries on her courteous chatter while her eyes flitter from Andrew back to Caroline, desperately trying to watch him carefully. He feels a rush of admiration for her – after everything that had happened the night before she still manages to carry on being the most graceful of aristocratic women, not a hint of the trauma she had encountered. Glancing up, Adams watches her for slightly longer than he possibly should have done under the circumstances, the decanter hovering in one hand and a bottle clutched in the other. If only they knew, he muses. How they had laughed together at their expense, how they had fallen in love and lain together, the toffs would be so shocked that for only the second time in her life Lady Caroline would be totally speechless.

Rebecca turns her head, catching Adams' eye and holds his gaze, a soft smile spreading across her full lips. The under-butler nearly drops the decanter he is so drawn in by the intensity of her stare, it urging him to follow her if she should leave the room. She tugs at her shawl, suddenly realising that Lady Caroline had been calling her name and tapping her arm. With a blink she breaks their gaze, then makes out that she is listening to her friend's boring breathless nattering about the dreadfulness of life on a country estate until she is fit to burst

Rebecca clattering her teacup into its saucer and placing it back on the table: Well, have you thought about moving into a smaller property, Caroline my dear? Maybe you could all go and live in Tappleton and let the whole of Tappleton move into here? There's enough room, I'm sure!

Caroline suddenly looks put out at her friend's rather rash comment, but Rebecca could hardly care less and rises to her feet. To Adams' delight, she is wearing his most favourite dress, a light blue taffeta full frock, buttoned up the front and tight on the waist to accentuate her delicate figure and with a simple lace collar and cuffs. She appears to him to be the epitome of sophistication and loveliness, how could Keneally ever want to do what he nearly did to her?

Rebecca sniffs and with her skirts swishing around her bids her leave and trots out of the room. Adams waits for a moment, wondering how long he should leave it before following her, but his hands seem to be working faster than his brain and before long all the decanters have been refilled and he has silently left. But to his disappointment, she hasn't waited for him in the hall, or even on the stairs. Adams paces up and down the hall, shaking his head, but a draft whistling from the front door catches his attention and he notices that it has been left open ajar, not a footman in sight to shut it as no visitors are expected to arrive or leave until the afternoon. With an inkling of suspicion, he slowly opens the door and glances outside, shivering in the bitterness of the cold. It is even too chilly for him, a hardy Scot, who is used to the most icy of Highlands winters.

Hurrying back inside, he checks for and fetches a certain fur-lined coat and with a self-conscious glance dips back outside, pulling the door over behind him. Nobody in their right mind would be out here in such wintry conditions, with huge threatening clouds overhead, so he is fairly confident he won't be seen. It doesn't take long for him to spot her, a figure in a flowing blue gown almost running across the grass away from the house which suddenly halts and begins to shake, clearly wracked with sobs. Muttering under his breath, Adams gathers the coat up in his arms and runs across to the figure, desperate to get to them, to hold them and never let go. Reaching Rebecca, he throws the coat over her shoulders and without a word draws her into a hug as the second snow of a rapidly approaching winter begins to fall, sprinkling their hair and clothes with light, fluffy flakes.

Adams pressing her face into his shoulder: Becca, my darling, what are you doing out here, in the freezing cold, and without your coat and bonnet?

For an instant Rebecca doesn't respond, only continues to stain his jacket with tears, but suddenly she pulls back, her large, blue eyes twinkling with tears. It breaks Adams' heart to see her like this, he hates to see her cry but she had done so much of it lately, when normally she is such a lively, positive person.

Rebecca drifting her fingers across Adams' cheek: Oh Andrew, why is it all going wrong? Everything is just so beastly, I hate this, I hate my life, the only things I love are you and our child. But I feel too awful about what I'm doing to Hugo, he doesn't deserve that!

Before a response can form itself in the under-butler's mind, Lady Rebecca leans up and kisses him hungrily on the lips, with such force that he almost staggers backwards, and throws her arms around his neck in the passion of the moment. In instant panic over being seen from the house, Adams gently but reluctantly pushes her away as the warmth of her mouth envelopes his lips as the urgency to have him overwhelms her.

Adams gasping for air, his voice breathless: Rebecca, stop! It's broad daylight, we'll be seen!

Rebecca her eyes now more consumed with lust rather than sadness: Don't you want me?

Adams meeting her passionate gaze: Of course I do, more than you will ever know, but can't we wait for tonight? I just wanted to check you were alright….

Rebecca snatching his hand and dragging him back towards the house: Well I'm not alright! I'm not, Andrew! I want you to take me away from all of this, right now, I want to forget just for a little while!

Adams halting and swinging her back towards him as the snowflakes settle on his eyelashes: Becca, please! Talk to me!

Rebecca panting through exhaustion and cold, fresh tears stinging her freezing cheeks: Take me back to the house and make love to me, Andrew, that's all I want right now!

Adams grabbing her arms and kissing her forhead: Oh Becca my darling, darling, girl. You're the most hysterical I've ever seen you, I wouldn't be a gentleman if I did such a thing! I may have done in the past, but I'm a changed man now. I will see you tonight, we'll have all night, when my duties are finished, to be together, I will have a plan by then, I promise! Trust me!

Adams glances up at the house, then back at Rebecca, sliding his arms around her waist and kissing the tears from her cheeks. The snowflakes are beginning to settle on her fiery hair, her cheeks pinking as the cold wind scrapes her cheeks while her lips are rosier than ever. She smiles and nods, melting into his embrace, running her icy hands under his waistcoat and noticing he is wearing the pocket watch she bought him.

She muses to herself, quite unexpectedly, that it no longer seems peculiar to her that a woman in her position should be held so lovingly by a man in under-butler livery, with her returning the embrace tenfold

Adams breaking the hug and slowly leading her back towards the house, carefully avoiding holding her hand: You're beautiful, Rebecca, but I don't know how Frank got such the wrong idea about you, he must have been completely crazed, I mean I don't suppose you've even said so much as two words to the little rat! How dare he have such an interest in you!

Rebecca pausing then speaking slowly, unsure what to say: Well, I….I may have encouraged him just a little….

Adams halting and glaring at her in confusion: Encouraged him! In what way!

Rebecca returning the glare with pleading eyes: But it was all for a good cause, a reason, just listen and I'll explain….

Adams his expression one of shock as he raises his voice aggressively: Did he touch you! Before last night!

Rebecca placing a hand on his arm softly: Listen to what I have to say first, please Andrew……!

Adams roughly shaking her touch, his lip trembling: DID HE TOUCH YOU BEFORE LAST NIGHT! ANSWER ME!

Rebecca her voice turning shrill and panicky: I've only ever let him touch my leg, take off my stocking, that's all, but it was all to save our relationship!

Adams backing away in horror: You encouraged another man, let him lay a hand on you, to save OUR relationship! How does that work, Lady Rebecca, do tell!

Rebecca her pretty face contorted in distress: It was my sister, she hired Frank to spy on us – on me, she wanted proof that we were still sweethearts so I needed to throw him off the scent, that's why I wrote and said that everything would be fine but I couldn't see you for a while, I had to pretend you had broken off our relationship…

Adams waving his hands round manically, not caring who sees him: So let me get this perfectly straight! In order to protect our romance, you banned me from seeing you while pretending to Frank you are available, let him into your life, strung him along, let him grope you – in a sexual way – and you wonder why he….? YOU WONDER WHY!

Rebecca: Andrew, don't shout like that! It wasn't like that, not how you describe it!

Adams snorts in disgust, looking at the mother of his child as if she is no better than some woman off the street before walking slowly towards her again, disappointment etched on his face. For a moment he can't speak, but the more he looks at Rebecca the more the truth eats at his soul and makes it harder to bear

Adams lowering his voice to almost a hiss: Oh I would say, Lady Farquarson, that it was EXACTLY like that! I don't condone his actions last night, but now I can go some way to understanding why he would think he had a chance with you, throwing yourself at him, acting like a common little….little…..

Rebecca her cold face reddening further with fury at his insinuation: Common little what, Andrew! Hm! Go on, say it, if that's what you really believe! Yes, I now regret what I did, I should have told you from the start what Franny was planning, but I didn't know what sort of man Frank was then, I thought he was harmless and naive, just being used by my strumpet of a sister! You have to believe me, Andrew, please!

Adams: I don't know what to believe, My Lady, I really don't. I love you so much, why did you have to do this to me? To us? And our child! The images I have of you and that….that piece of excrement….how could you do it! Did he share your bed! The one we have lain in together!

Rebecca tears flooding down her face as she wraps her arms across her stomach: No! I swear! Yes I strung him along, but I did it FOR us, not to spite us, why don't you understand! And yes it went wrong, yes I've been a foolish girl, but please don't walk away! This is just what Franny wants, remember!

Adams gulps and stares at her, the pain slowly replaced by an emptiness he hasn't felt since the day he left Highlands. But before he storms back towards the house, leaving a bereft Rebecca shivering in the snow, he utters words to chill her heart far frostier than any weather that may descend on Taplows.

Adams his eyes piercing hers: Well, Rebecca, I'm afraid your sister may have just got her wish.

She slowly sneaked up behind him and pinched her waist. He squealed, jumping a foot in the air, she quickly grabbed his hand, before anyone saw the commotion and dragged him round the back of the Orangery and out of site.

George: Grace! What the hell are you playing at!

Grace: Good morning to you too! Where did you get to last night!

George: Oh about that, I was needed upstairs for most of the evening, Frank was upsetting the Earl's guests… well Lady Rebecca, he's got a big crush on her and was causing trouble.

Grace: Oh. she didn't know what to make of that. Was this a relief or not, he'd moved away from her, but maybe… she had like the idea of him chasing after her… No! She quickly changed her mind about this, things were a lot better without him. Is she alright?

George: Oh yer, Mr- I mean Mrs Ryan was looking after her. he'd had to cut himself off quickly. He told Grace everything, but maybe it wasn't his place to tell her about Mr Adams… well everything except… that… which no one knew. He'd never told anyone at Taplows about that and never would if he could help it! Anyway, what is the meaning of this, dragging me away. If Mr Adams catches us…

Grace: Don't worry about that, there is no sign of Adams anywhere and besides Will said he'd cover for you, I'd say we have a good… half an hour, to make up for last night's missed time.

Smiling cheekily at him and dragging him towards the bakehouse.

Grace watched George as he did his shirt back up. She couldn't stop thinking about him, she'd begun to daydream and Mrs Ryan had gone ballistic with her the other day, she'd been thinking about what someone a cross between her and George would look like, when she knocked the tub of yeast over spilling it all over the floor. He looked up at her and saw her staring at him.

George: What? Didn't your mother ever tell you it's not nice to stare? Grace smiled nervously and muttered her apologies, then leaning back against the bakehouse wall, looking thoughtfully at him, began to speak.

Grace: George? Do you ever think about what it would be like away from Taplows?

George: Darling I went into town yesterday it was my morning off, how Taplows bound do you think I am? she sighs, exasperated, turning away from him and resting her head on the brick wall, her eyes closed Speaking of Taplows bound you really should get out more darling, if you are starting to think about stuff like that.

Grace turning back round: That's not what I meant! he raises his eyebrow puzzled at her. What I mean was… getting down onto her knees next to him is… do you ever wonder what it would be like for us… together… away from Taplows…

George: You mean like a holiday? he knew exactly what she meant, but she had to avoid that subject

No! For good! Eh oh! What should he say? Should he crack a joke? He couldn't say yes! She's start getting idea, thinking he wanted to leave.

George: Oh… no. Stupid! He could have come up with something a bit better than that.

Grace: No what?

George: I never really think about stuff like that. He turns and begins to tie his shoe laces. That wasn't true he did think about stuff like that… it's just…

Grace: Well if you did think about it? he turns to look at her Cause I've been thinking about it a lot lately and… I was wondering what you thought about it? He doesn't say anything and she carries on With Frank I wasn't ready… but now… with you… I feel ready. she looks up at him, placing a hand on the side of his face. Tell me what you're thinking.

George taking in a deep breath: I'm thinking about how beautiful you are.

Grace: Is that a no?

George smiling softly at her: That's a I want to be with you. she beams at him, throwing her arms around him and squeezing him tightly. Hey don't strangle me.

Grace: Oh sorry. loosening her grip. He smiles at her and she once again throws her arms around him and his smile quickly fades, thinking hard, his head spinning. Why had he said that! Well at least that had ended the conversation for now. He hadn't said yes, she had just read it as yes, but he couldn't say yes, but he wanted to say yes and he didn't want to say no, but he knew he would have to say no! His head was going to explode! He needed questions answering, before it was too late for both him and Grace.

He escorted her back up to the house and hurriedly made his way up to the footmen's room, carefully avoiding any members of staff, bursting the door open and hurrying in.

Will: Alright mate? George jumps and glares at Will, who is sat on a chair, polishing his shoes, why did Adams always have to be so bloody picky! Have a nice break with Grace? sniggering

George: Parchment! I need some parchment! taken aback Will, quickly hands him over some parchment and he sits on a chair, taking a few deep breaths, before beginning to write, every now and again reading it back over to himself until it finally read,

Dear Richard,

I need you're help, I'm not going to write it in a letter, but please can you try and get here for Thursday. Meet me in Tappleton, at the Cock and Bull, I'll be there at 11. Hope this reaches you in time.

George

That should so, he thinks to himself. Have you got an envelope mate?

Will: Yer, hang on a minute Georgie, let me just see it I've got one hidden up my ass. sarcastically What would I want with an envelope? Who would I ever write a letter too? George sighs, jumping up and hurrying out. God! Bleeding calm down! You'd think a break with Grace would take his stress away. he mutters to himself

George runs downstairs and to Mrs Ryan's office, but she wasn't there, damn! He sighs to him, leaning back on the wall. He'd get it sealed at the post office later. Nodding to himself, he breaths in deeply. Calm thoughts. Surely things in the outside world had settled down. Talk to Richard and then if things are bad, then he'd talk to Grace. He sighs softly, and makes his way back up to the footmen's room to collect his wig and then get to work, before Adams found out he'd been skiving and gave out a weeks punishments.

Cut back to Frank and Jarvis in the coal cellar.

The butler has forcefully pushed back Frank so he is lying on his back on the cold, blackened floor, and now his foot is placed hard on the valet's chest, crunching down just enough to hurt him. Frank automatically grabs Jarvis' lower leg to try to wrench him off, but to no avail, as the butler sneers down at him

Frank gripping the bottom of Jarvis' trousers: You can't do this to me and get away with it, you know you can't! And since when have you cared so much about the aristocracy, or indeed been so cosy with Andrew Adams, huh! If you don't get your stinking great foot off me your secret may no longer be so well kept!

Jarvis twisting his heel into Frank's ribs, causing him to yelp in pain: How dare you threaten to expose me when you are in a far worse position, and you know exactly what I'm referring to!

Frank spitting and panting heavily: Can't say I know what you mean, your brain must be making things up in your old age. You've got nothing on me, bar Lady Rebecca!

Jarvis: Don't come the innocent with me, my lad! I'm sure I don't have to remind you about Italy, and what went on!

Frank snorting and laughing mockingly: No, you old fool, it was YOU and that bit of foreign totty in the bar, not me or the rest of the lads, my good God, Jarvis, how you conveniently forget for the sake of a bit of housekeeper skirt – or should I say lack of skirt - in your bed; or do you use her bed? Or do you alternate? Maybe you don't even use a bed at all!

Fortunately, Frank fails to see the look of utter nervousness on Jarvis' face, which eventually evaporates when he realises that there is no way the valet could know about that, he was too busy trying to have his way with Lady Rebecca at the time!

Frank smiling wickedly at his naughty thoughts: Actually, I'm not too sure I want to know, unless you want me to join you, I mean I'm sure I could put up with the misfortune of having you around starkers if there's a nice piece of Flora Ryan to be had, 'cos I'm tellin yer now mate, it certainly won't be you who I'll be f……

Jarvis cutting in by lifting off his foot and hauling Frank up, slamming him against the wall: You little bd! You twisted, idiotic bag of...of…..damn it, I should've gone straight to the Earl with you after all that trouble in Italy, I bloody should! What the hell I was thinking I don't know – to protect His Lordship! Pah! You've been a danger to society as well as yourself ever since you came back from the damned place and all its temptations!

Frank looking alarmed, holding his hands up and shaking his head: Look, for God's sake mate, that's all over with! Let it lie, will you! I said I was sorry at the time!

Jarvis momentarily leaves go of Frank to shake off his jacket, throwing it onto the floor, suddenly not caring how sooty he has to get to teach the little snot rag a lesson or two about life. He roughly unbuttons his cuffs and rolls up his sleeves, Frank watching him with an uncomfortable feeling of mild fear building up inside him, something he hadn't really felt about Adams no matter how much he had beaten him up. Frank had hardly ever been scared of Jarvis before, but a small voice in his head is telling him that he may have gone too far this time, and the butler pushed to his very limit is probably a kind of wrath he doesn't want to witness, let alone experience first hand.

Jarvis gripping Frank again and smacking his back repeatedly on the hard brick wall: Yes, as if I believed a word of your sad tale of woe, Keneally! And it's not as if you were willing to be convinced at first, was it? Arguing with me like that in front of Forest, disobeying me blatantly, going off with that bunch of cretins – murderers, for pity's sake!

Frank his voice high-pitched through his yelps: You've no proof they were murderers!

Jarvis scowling, his teeth gritted: Exactly, that's just it, the likes of them are too good to leave proof – the only proof they would've needed was when they had stitched you up, and at the time I wasn't about to let an innocent man – albeit stupid – hang, while my first duty had been to His Lordship, to protect his reputation! Maybe I should've let you be used in whatever fraud or death those mobsters were planning instead, left you to rot in Italian gaol, for all the thanks I got afterwards when you made a show of not only yourself but everyone, including Miss May!

Frank unable to help himself from pushing Jarvis that little bit further: Protect His Lordship my arse, Jarvis! Protect your own precious reputation you mean! Men like you are all the same – hypocritical losers who steal from their masters and sleep around when they feel like it!

Jarvis shoving his fists hard into Frank's tense shoulder muscles: Well, Mr Keneally, it seems we're not as different as you may think after all! And I even had to lie to His Lordship about why we had to leave hours earlier than was anticipated, did you know that, eh! God knows what your little friends would have done to us if they had caught up with us, it was dangerous enough me having to steer a damn carriage for the first time in goodness knows how many years, but I had had enough of your fooling around! At least you had the bloody sense to get in when I told you to!

Frank desperation entering his voice: Look, I didn't ask to be rescued, if that's how you see it!

Jarvis his fist flying out and thumping hard into Frank's arm: No you didn't, did you? Pig in bloody muck, that was you, wasn't it? And I see your taste for guns hasn't depleted, nor your thirst for danger, maybe you would've been a real asset to them, one of their finest while they go round killing people who get in their way! Someone to do all their dirty work and be the scapegoat in the end, although from last night's antics I'm now rather sceptical about your innocence, maybe you did know more about their unscrupulous scheming than you let on at the time!

Frank topples over, tripping under his own feet as he massages his throbbing arm, and crashes hard into a pile of coal, sharp shards piercing his cold flesh through his shirt and trousers. With a tired, painful whimper, the valet lands in a heap, accidentally biting hard into his tongue as tears of self-pity springing in his dull eyes, but the butler only scoffs at this pathetic attempt to gain him a shred of sympathy. Hissing 'sit the hell up, Keneally!', Jarvis pulls him up into a sitting position by his arm, but Frank's neck appears hardly unable to support his own head

Frank a wave of nausea rising in his dry throat: You're mad! Completely barking! And anyway Lord Julian wouldn't believe a word of it, he hates you remember!

Jarvis crouching and grabbing Frank's face, forcing him to look him in the eye: Lord Julian may very well hate me, but the Earl will believe me over you in a second, you think I didn't tell him when you left that you went without character! His Lordship can be a very persuasive man, and I am sure Lord Julian would soon see the error of his ways – and yours!

Frank his words thickening as warm blood fills his mouth: If you do that, I will tell Sturges-Bourne exactly what you've been doing with his money all these years, then see who has the last bloody laugh, eh!

Jarvis sniffing out a disapproving laugh and smirking: Do what the hell you like, nobody will suppose a word you say is true, just a discredited good-for-nothing desperate to bring somebody else down with him with a complete pack of lies and no proof of the allegations!

Frank hangs his head, knowing what Jarvis says is true. For the first time, he can't think of a single retort to come back with. He has him in a corner, the upper hand, a depressingly large hold over him which he can do nothing about. How Frank hates and despises everyone at Taplows. If Grace May had gone with him in the first place, after years of waiting for her, the bloody blessed virgin, then none of this would have happened and he would be rich from the tannery by now. Silly, foolish cow. Well, if he can't do anything to Jarvis, or go near the keeper of his heart ever again, then Grace May may just be vulnerable enough to be next to succumb to the Keneally charm all over again.

Jarvis drags Frank to his weary feet, a distasteful look on his face from having to lower himself to such a crude course of action. Once he is sure Frank can stand on his own despite the bitter cold and his numerous beatings, the butler orders him back to the house to clean up. He allows him the privilege of a shallow, tepid bath to make himself presentable to his master, now that Frank has recovered from his drunken antics in the servants hall the previous night and his subsequent massive hang over, of course.

Frank staggers out ahead of him, blinking in the glare of the settling snow, leaving Jarvis to sigh heavily and shake his head. With a small shiver due to the harsh weather conditions, Jarvis snatches up his jacket and brushes it down, adjusts his neck tie and rolls down his sleeves. Maybe now Keneally has learned his lesson, he muses, although somehow he doesn't really think so. But, that's enough of the Irishman for one day, he has a certain Irish lady to court and he is damned if some jumped-up smart-alec valet is going to get in the way of that!

Later that afternoon the light flurry of snow that had been falling since the morning had finally abated, although the dark ominous clouds from earlier still lingered on the hillside threatening a deluge later on. Precisely as the clock in the servants hall struck two, the butler enclosed securely in his long over coat, hat and scarf walked along to the housekeeper's office, wrapping his knuckles sharply on her door he pushed the door wide open, a broad smile spreading over his face as he spotted Flora Ryan all togged up and ready to go.

"Only you would still want to go for a walk in a snow storm!" Flora countered before he could speak, but despite her objections to the weather she gamely picked up her woollen muff, moving to link her arm with the butler's before forcing her gloved hands into its warmth.

"Well you did say some fresh air would cure me of my ailments!" Walter replied chuckling as the housekeeper groaned slightly, rolling her fine eyes at his twisting of her words from earlier.

Ten minutes later and the pair had managed to walk down the slope towards the lake, Walter pulling the giggling Flora up the stairs, before turning and sweeping off his hat bowing to Flora, his spare hand indicating towards the surrounding snow covered countryside. "Your view Madam!" Jarvis added. "Does it meet your expectations?"

Laughing so hard she thought her sides would split, Flora leant against one of the wooden beams of the gazebo, only managing to call out a breathless "Bravo", before once more succumbing to a fit of giggles.

"Well if you think this is good, then just wait till you see the entertainment!" Jarvis retorted, but instead of heading into the gazebo he danced off down the jetty, pausing on the edge before stepping down onto the ice and whirling round to face the housekeeper before bowing once more.

Panicking slightly worried that the ice would prove to thin and he would fall into the freezing water, Flora dashed towards the lakes edge. "Walter Corey get off of there!"

"Why love you aren't worried about poor little me, are you?" Walter retorted.

"Walter please you don't know if it's safe!" Flora pleaded from the edge of the jetty.

"That's true I suppose there is only one way to make sure!" He replied before jumping up and down on the ice, before unsteadily twirling around causing Flora to shriek with terror.

"Walter Please!" Flora implored, tears of pure fright falling on her flushed cheeks. "You know I can't swim, and by the time any help came from the house you'd have drowned for sure; come back to the bank!"

Suddenly serious Jarvis slid back over to the jetty, reaching up to brush the icy tears from her face, before clambering up beside her, Flora reaching to drag him up as quickly as possible. "Don't you ever scare me like that again!" She snapped at him once he was safe on the wooden jetty, before flinging herself into his waiting arms.

Holding her tight against him, Walter rocked her reassuringly in his arms smoothing her hair from her face and planting kisses on her ice-cold forehead. After a few moments the pair separated, the snow that had been falling in scattered bursts was now descending from the heavens with a vengeance, as if determined to cover every inch of the land in a blanket of pure white. Glancing up at the rapidly darkening sky Walter reached down and seizing Flora's hand began to march them both back up to the house as quickly as possible.

However halfway up the slope it soon became obvious to them both as they slipped and slid over the icy ground that they had to hurry, the wind that had been blustery all day was now whipping up the freshly fallen snow and severely restricting their visibility to such an extent that it had been several minutes since they had been able to see the house. Fortunately despite this they both knew if they kept walking up the slope then it was inevitable they would bump into the house or one of the many outbuildings.

Suddenly out of the whiteness Jarvis caught sight of a shape looming in the darkness, shielding his eyes he tightened his grip on the housekeeper dragging her after him as he stormed off in its direction. Groping his way alone the wall it wasn't long before his hand grasped the unmistakable form of a door handle, turning it sharply he barged the door open yanking Flora quickly through the doorway before collapsing back against the wooden door exhaling sharply with relief. For a second Walter kept his eyes shut, enjoying the sensation, as his whole body seemed to cry out with relief at being away from the harsh wind and the icy cold, however his relief was soon shattered when he heard the unmistakable of Flora crying. Opening his eyes quickly the reason for her hysteria hit him like a charge of cavalry; they were standing in the chapel.

For a second Walter just froze, he knew Flora hadn't been in here since the accident and had delegated all her duties for the flowers and upkeep to Grace, however he was suddenly spurred into action when the sobbing Flora began to lurch to one side. Dashing forward his arms outstretched he just managed to reach her time before the overwrought housekeeper collapsed completely. Rocking her gently in his arms, the panicking Butler glanced around for something to help wake her but there was nothing obvious lying about. Tightening his hold on her Jarvis leant down placing quick desperate kisses on her frozen brow and down her cheek, constantly whispering to her begging her to wake up. After what for Jarvis seemed like an eternity Flora began to stir, her eyes flickering open and for a moment they softened as she gazed lovingly up at him, then suddenly the memory of where they were hit her like a tidal wave and her expression crumpled.

Pushing aside Jarvis arms Flora got to her feet and stumbled towards the door, a worried Jarvis only a few steps behind her so when she tried to pull the door open he was there pushing his full weight against it. "Please Walter I can't stay here it'll destroy me!" Flora gasped, turning to look pleadingly at the butler.

"But if I let you out then you could die! God damnit Flora there's a blizzard out there; if you took the wrong turn, or slipped and fell you'd freeze to death." Jarvis retorted before pulling her firmly back into his arms.

"It's alright Flora I'm here no one is going to hurt you, I won't let anyone hurt you ever again." Walter whispered in her ear as he gently removed her bonnet pulling the clips out from her hair and running his hands through it soothingly.

"I know you'll try but you can't be with me all the time, it could have been me captured at the burglary instead of Grace, then in here with that drunk and even those threats from Frank I mean now we know what he's capable of…." Flora trailed off clutching Walter so tightly to her as if letting him go would mean her certain destruction.

"We can leave, just say the word and we can leave as soon as the storm is over…"

"And go where?" Flora asked. "Wherever we go it doesn't matter there will always be Frank Keneally's and Bill Forest's no where is safe! And if it's not safe for me then how could it be safe for the children?" She retorted her beautiful face flushing with pain and anger.

"Flora you can't think like that, what happened in here… You are going to have to let go, find a way to put it aside…" Jarvis began consolingly.

"Put it aside!" Flora snapped pushing aside his embrace and getting to her feet, her whole frame shaking with barely contained fury. "Put it aside!… How dare you…If you had any idea what I went though, perhaps then you would realise this wasn't something you can just put to the back of your mind!"

Getting to his feet Jarvis closed the distance between them seizing her firmly by the shoulders he shook her. "Well how can I you've never told me, you've never let me in!"

"So what you want to know all the gory details is that it?" Flora snapped, ignoring the look of pain and distress in Walter's eyes.

"That wasn't what I said!" Jarvis replied.

"No but it was what you meant!" Flora retorted. "Well if that's what you want!" She added storming to the front of the chapel. "It was here I saw him first, I couldn't make out who it was the light was so bright so I called out and then when he started to come towards me I realised it was that drunk and so I started to panic…He kept telling me to keep quiet that he didn't want to hurt me but then when I tried to leave he wouldn't let me…So I tried to distract him, I threw one of the candlesticks at him and ran for the doors but I didn't make it he grabbed hold of me a began to drag me back, I tried to fight him, but he was so much stronger than me…I was terrified I thought…I thought he would try and force himself on me and I had to protect my baby, I managed to break free, I managed to hurt him but then he got so angry and dragged me back my hair, somehow I got free again but then he started to hit me and he flung me against the end pew…"

Suddenly Flora stopped her eyes fixed in the pew in question as tears began to trickle down her cheeks as she stepped towards it her hand shaking as she reached out towards the smooth polished wood. "It hurt so much, like being stabbed thousands of times, I couldn't stand with the pain and I collapsed, I can still remember the crack as my head hit the flagstone and all the time he just stood there looking down at me; a look of pure bewilderment on his face as though this couldn't possibly be real, I asked him to help me but he just left me….He turned and left me lying there and I knew I was loosing my baby but there was nobody there….nobody at all!" She added choking on her words as her legs gave way under her.

Jarvis stood frozen to the spot, a single tear falling down his cheek, in all his nightmares he had imagined what had happened; had played over in his mind what that monster could have done to her but nothing that he had conjured could compare with the harsh truth. Shaking slightly he made his way over to her, collapsing on the floor next to her he tentatively reached out, enfolding the wheezing weeping woman in his arms. For a moment she struggled, before finally collapsing sobbing against his shoulder, gasping for breath she began to tug futilely at the fastenings of her coat. "I can't breath!" She managed to rasp out as her breathing became more erratic.

Panicking slightly, afraid that she might faint again Jarvis pushed her hands aside ripping at the fastenings of her coat and then her dress managing to find the fastenings of her corset and attacking the knot that had formed in place of the bow at the top, his red, frozen fingers struggling with it in vain. "God damn woman why did you lace yourself so tight?" He muttered, before finally caving in and reaching in his pocket for his penknife and dragging the blade down the top few lacings of her corset.

Now finally able to take a deep breath Flora gasped for air leaning back against Walter's shoulder as the colour in her cheeks gradually returned to a healthy pink. "Why do you think?" She retorted once she was capable of speaking once more. "After all a lady still has to try and make an effort, can't have you running off with some slender waisted slip of a girl now can I?"

"You know that will never happen, no matter what, I love you… I'm sorry Flora you were right I could never understand, but I will try; now at least I have an idea of what you went through. I won't mention trying for a family again; just to be able to hold you on occasion that'll be enough, we'll be happy just the two of us…"

"No!" Flora cut him off a look of determination on her face that he hadn't seen in months. "We won't, we'll say we are and perhaps on the surface we might even seem content, but we both wanted that child so badly we'd only be kidding ourselves Walter, I want our child, our family and I want to feel safe and happy all the time. But this isn't a perfect world and we can't have everything we want…But that doesn't mean we have to stop trying."

For a second Jarvis's breath caught in his throat. "Flora do you mean it?" He asked, his eyes boring into hers trying to find the truth behind her words.

Smiling softly Flora nodded. "I don't know when I realised it, maybe it was having the children here, or perhaps worrying about Rebecca's pregnancy but I want a child of my own, our own I want to marry you and spend the rest of my life with you, raising our family. If you'll still have me of course?" She added nervously.

Chuckling slightly Walter leant forward his eyes falling to her heaving chest and despite everything he was unable to prevent the lascivious images that ran through his mind. "Hmmmmm well since I don't have a whole list of candidates to draw from…" He stopped when Flora smacked his arm playfully.

"Alright you wench I accept, which means I think this belongs to you." He stopped, his hands moving to loosen his necktie and causing Flora's eyebrow to shoot skyward, her look of shock only abating when instead of undressing further Walter pulled out from under his shirt a dark cord on which dangled a certain band of gold and sapphire. Using his penknife once more Walter quickly freed the ring before reaching out for Flora's left hand and sliding the ring back on her finger where it rightfully belonged.

For a moment they both gazed down at the ring on her finger, Flora twisting it this way and that watching as it sparkled in the dim light, before leaning up and kissing Walter tenderly on the lips; moving apart slightly Flora nuzzled her head against Walter's shoulder.

"So now how are we going to fix this?" He asked his fingers playfully tugging at the partially unlaced corset. "I mean we'd better make you presentable or people will really start to wonder what I've been doing to you!"

"Well since you decided to act the pirate and slash it open you think of something!" Flora retorted.

"Oh I can think of something!" Walter added cheekily.

"I bet you could, but considering where we are don't you think we ought to wait, I mean the dining room or dairy is one thing but this is holy ground and besides considering the negative associations with this place I wouldn't like to think of our next child being conceived here."

"You're right we'll wait, I think after last night's events we've earned ourselves an early night, perhaps a little private celebratory dinner…"

"Followed by?" Flora asked teasingly playfully tugging at the buttons on his waistcoat.

"What can't I have any secrets anymore?" Jarvis asked a smile pulling at the corners of his mouth.

"No none!" Flora quipped getting to her feet, seizing the loose strands of her lacings and managing somehow to fasten her corset halfway down, however when it came to re-buttoning her dress she struggled with the final few clasps.

"Hmmm a fair maiden in distress." Walter chuckled getting to his feet. "Need a helping hand?" He added.

"Well, that depends on where you're planning on putting it!" Flora retorted cheekily.

"Well I would have thought that would have been obvious!" Walter replied walking up behind her, sliding his hands round her waist and kissing down her slender neck. "As always where it will do me the most good!" He added his hands moving to fasten the dress for her, his superior strength managing to accomplish what she could not although to both their eyes the fabric looked severely under strain. "Well my dear." Walter started wrapping her cloak firmly around her. "I think we'd better get you indoors before either your dress or my restraint gives way under the pressure.

Giggling softly Flora linked her arm through his letting him lead her to the door without a backwards glance, this place was in their past and out there was their future, and this time she was going to make sure that no one had the power to ruin it for them!

Frank watched her in the shadows, Damn! He'd been so occupied with this whole Rebecca and Franny thing that he had almost forgotten he had to be extracting justified revenge against that damn Cosmo lad… and he'd almost forgotten how beautiful she was. She picked up a cloth and folded it carefully, what did she see in George?

Meanwhile indoors Frank heard voices from behind him and stepped back against the wall, hiding himself from the gazes of a passing George and Will. They didn't see Frank, however they did see Grace and glancing at Will, George snuke up behind her, nipping her waist and making her jump a foot in the air and squeal. Turning around sharply she hit him playfully on the arm, giggling as he poked her gently in the tummy.

George: Alright gorgeous? she can only nod, as she tries to grasp his hands to stop him tickling her.

Just seeing the two of them together made him feel nauseous. There had to be some way of getting of rid of him or getting Grace back, he couldn't stand the sight of them fawning over each other.

Grace through giggles as she tries to push him off her: George! If I don't get this stuff finished Mrs Ryan will have my guts for garters. George sighs pulling his arms from around her sulking Oh don't look at me like that. Besides the quicker I start the quicker I finish. her voice sultry, as she runs a delicate finger across his lips.

George: Well hurry up, you are going to miss your lunch break if your not careful. she nods and with one last kiss he turns and hurries away

Grace continued to fold the sheets, less carefully now and obviously anxious to get to dinner, sacking them in a high pile on top of table. However she didn't realise she was being watched. Frank had moved out from the shadows and stood in the doorway, leaning on the doorframe and his heads tilted slightly, as he watched her work.

Grace: What do you want? suddenly realising she was being watched

Frank: Nothing really. strolling slowly to towards her, his arms folded across his chest as she watched her continue with her work, getting increasingly nervous as he got closer, until she could feel his breath on the back of her neck and he hissed in her ear Just watching… got a problem with that? She stiffens slightly and noticing this, his smug grin broadens. Didn't think so. with that he steps back, eyeing her up and down. Grace shivered slightly, trying to focus of the pale pink sheet in her shaking hands

Not taking his eyes off her he leant forward and picked up one of the sheets and began to fold it. She stared at him, her eyebrow raised. What did he want now? She thought to herself and for a moment she considered finding an apron for him, but stifling a giggle she decided maybe it would be best to try and stay on the right side of him and hopefully he'd leave her alone.

However, Frank was beginning to plot, this time he was determined to get what he wanted and nothing, I repeat NOTHING was going to stand in his way. Somehow he was going to get Miss May back and George Cosmo out of both of their lives forever.

Frank: You look very beautiful tonight Grace. she shifted slightly and muttered her thanks. Is that all you are going to say?

Grace: What do you want me to say? putting her final cloth on the pile and stepping back, so he could put his final one on, then stepping closer he whispered.

Frank: Think about it and get back to me. With that he gives her a little wink and flicks the bottom sheet with his finger, causing all the sheets to collapse, he smiles at her shocked tearful face and swept out.

Grace looked tearfully down at the scattered sheets and sinking to the floor she began to sob. Not only was she going to have to fold all of them AGAIN, but she also had the lovely prospect of Frank breathing down her neck once more. She'd begun to think he'd got used to the fact that she wasn't going to come back to him and was very happy with George now, but maybe he'd just backed off for a bit to do some serious plotting. Sighing she realised that this was probably it. She should have realised he wasn't going to leave her alone… what man could? The only question was what was he up to now and what was she going to do about it?

The next morning whilst the junior housemaids were scurrying about making up fires all over the house the two most senior servants were still in bed. Snuggling contentedly into Walter's shoulder Flora Ryan absently played with the beautiful ring on her finger whilst a smiling Jarvis stroked her hair lovingly. "Don't you think we really ought to be getting up?" Flora whispered. "I mean there is no way the Earl will believe that all of sudden we are both ill, and we have duties that must be attended to."

"He mightn't notice!" Walter chuckled. "After all you never know until you try!"

"Walter…" Flora began shaking her head in disbelief.

"Oh alright, you win…Only you go first..." Jarvis replied before unexpectedly stealing the covers from around Flora and pushing her playfully, albeit a little more forcefully than he had planned, causing the stunned housekeeper roll out of bed and land on the floor with a loud crash. For a second Flora remained sprawled on the floor, then suddenly the realisation of what Walter had done finally struck home, outraged and determined to wreak an immediate revenge Flora hurriedly got to her feet. Rushing over to the sideboard she seized the full water jug and smiling wickedly at Walter's frozen expression of surprise and disbelief she flung its contents right in the Butler's face. For a second he simply sat there in amongst the sodden bedclothes, the water dripping slowly down his face, droplets falling from the end of his nose and splashing onto his sopping wet and now transparent nightshirt.

"I cannot believe you did that!" Walter finally blurted out, his eyes glancing up at the housekeeper who by now was shaking with laughter.

"You deserved it!" She managed to gasp out in between giggles. "If this is the way you treat me when we're engaged what will you do when we're married?"

"Well why don't you get over here and I'll show you!" Walter replied, wiping the remaining water from his face and grinning at her saucily before tugging his nightshirt off over his head and patting the space beside him in bed.

"You have to be joking!" Flora stuttered. "It's soaking wet…"

"It'll dry!" Walter retorted, beginning to pull back the covers and swinging his legs over the side of the bed his eyes locked with hers an almost feral glint in his gaze.

For a moment Flora stood stock still before making a mad dash for the door; however her delay had cost her dearly and by the time she had reached the door she found her escape route blocked by a very wet and very naked Walter Corey.

"Walter I'm warning you!" She began but was suddenly cut off when the butler seized hold of her, leaning down and scooping the struggling housekeeper up into his arms, carrying her over to the bed and dumping her onto the saturated sheets before leaning down and kissing her passionately. For a moment Flora squirmed against him shivering as the water soaked into her nightdress, but eventually she gave in, kissing him back with the same level of intensity; breathless they broke apart Walter tugging at her nightdress but Flora caught his hand. Glancing up at her Walter raised his eyebrow at this sudden change of heart but fortunately Flora smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning in to whisper in his ear.

"You do realise this will be the second day in a row we'll turn up late for breakfast… Together… People might start to talk!" She added giggling softly. "They may somehow get the idea that there's something going on between us!"

"Now where would they get an idea like that from?" Walter asked leaning to kiss her briefly and tenderly on the lips. "But if it bother's you love, let me reassure you can arrive late for breakfast alone this morning, I have a certain aristocrat to go see something about two members of his staff seeking permission to marry…" Walter added teasingly, curling stray locks of hair round his fingers.

"Really anyone we know?" She replied, threading her fingers through his hair and pulling his mouth down so it hovered just above her own.

"Well I could give you a clue…" Walter began but he was cut of when an impatient housekeeper captured his lips with her own rolling him over onto his back and tugging her own nightdress off over her head before pulling the still damp covers over the both of them. Smiling down at him Flora quickly retorted, "no need Walter I think I have a fairly good idea already."

"That's a relief I was starting to worry and if I can work my magic on his lordship and then on the good Reverend it will only be a matter of weeks if not days!"

"As far as I'm concerned the sooner the better, but please do try and save some magic for the bride to be…" Flora added.

"Oh think I can safely promise you that, but if madam would care to sample the merchandise…" Walter trailed off content to gaze lovingly up at his fiancé before reaching out and drawing her into his loving embrace.

An hour or so later the rest of the senior servants had gathered around the dining room table for breakfast, all except the butler and housekeeper, a fact that did not go unnoticed by the staff, especially after the display made over breakfast the day before. Suddenly the door was flung open and a still stiff, sore and disgruntled Frank Keneally stormed in; ignoring the hushed greetings of his fellow servants he seized a plate and began to shovel heaped spoonfuls of Kraus's superior breakfast onto his plate. Slamming it down on the table Frank slumped into his chair, his elbows resting blatantly on the table as he began to scoff down his food, his thoughts flitting from plans regarding young Grace May to plotting his revenge against Jarvis.

After a few minutes Frank sat back in his chair, wiping at his mouth with his napkin his eyes raking over the staff, narrowing in disapproval. Look at them, the useless sheep, all sitting there no ambition, no aspirations doing whatever they're told, and talking about giving orders where were the two sergeant majors this morning? Glancing at either end of the table Frank was pleasantly surprised to see both were missing, now that is interesting both of them absent at the same time, where could they be or more to the point what were they doing? What he needed was to do a little digging; looking over at Corey senior engrossed in conversation with the flamboyant Felix Kraus he smiled slightly to himself now that was a definite possibility.

"More Tea Mrs Corey?" Frank asked his most charming of charming smiles plastered on his handsome face. For a second the old lady simple stared at him in disbelief, in all her time at Taplows the valet had never once acknowledged her presence and besides she had always taken her son's lead and she knew how much Walter distrusted and disliked Frank.

"Why thank you Mr Keneally but I think I have had enough tea for this morning." Emily replied curtly, unsure about how to deal with the valet overt friendliness.

"As you wish My lady…You know it's a shame we haven't had the time to talk properly since you arrived after all we so much in common, it must have been so strange living and working with family, I know how unnerving it was for me returning here after so much time, fitting back in after everyone else had moved on with their lives…Feeling both like I belonged and yet still out of place." Frank added a disarmingly soft smile on his handsome face.

"Yes well I admit it hasn't been easy." Emily began unsure about how to deal with the Valet's outpouring, on one hand he seemed so sincere so lost and her mothering instinct automatically kicked in, but despite all this there was something about him that she just couldn't put her finger on, some gut feeling that urged caution before she continued. "However since my dear husband's death it has been such a comfort getting closer to my son and meeting such dear new friends."

"Yes and of course Mrs Ryan, it must be nice to have such a loving family unit, and who knows?…" Frank trailed off winking conspiratorially, his obvious hint was not lost on Emily but she chose not to openly acknowledge it. "I've always looked up to Mr Jarvis, when I first came here he took me under his wing, got me out a few scrapes I can tell you… I have to admit part of my reason for coming back was to show him how much I've grown up in the past year or so, I let him down so badly when I left Taplows, but I was young, foolish and hopelessly in love… I only hope I can get the chance to pay him back in full!" Frank added sincerely.

"I am sure Mr Jarvis will be delighted to hear you say that Frank!" Felix said, getting to his feet and flicking his hair back over his shoulder as he prepared to head off to his kitchen, the majority of the senior staff had already left the room seeing about their duties. "Perhaps you can tell him yourself whenever he manages to put in an appearance?" The chef added somewhat affronted by the Butler's continued inconsideration of the time and effort it took to prepare the senior staff menus.

Waiting for the chef to leave Frank also got to his feet moving to walk to the window and gaze out at the snow drifts that had built up against the house, a slight smile twitching at his lips as he saw the poor suffering footmen all togged up helping to shovel the snow from the doorways and paths around the house and grounds. For a moment he prayed to any deities that would listen that that pesky Cosmo lad would get frostbite in someplace embarrassing, and his bits would turn blue and drop off, that would certainly put a cramp in his romance of Miss May. Chuckling slightly Frank turned round his gaze falling on Emily who was slowly clearing the table.

"Mrs Corey I was wondering do you have a suggestion how I could make amends with Mr Jarvis?" Frank asked suddenly.

"Well urghhhhh I really don't know, I suppose simply show the respect due to his position, after all forgiveness and regard can't be bought Mr Keneally they have to be earned!" Emily answered after a few moments deep thought.

"But you've known him all his life… There must be something?" He pleaded.

"Well he has always been interested in improving himself even when he was a little boy, he enjoys testing his languages Mr Keneally, perhaps a book, or maybe you can offer to teach him some Gaelic, I'm sure he'd relish the chance to impress a certain Irish Lady…" Emily trailed off.

"That's not a bad idea!" Frank replied his twisted mind imaging all the disgusting and derogatory phrases he could teach Jarvis that would ensure a heated reaction from his ladylove. "It's strange to think of Mr Jarvis as anything other than our respected Butler, to think of him as a small boy; I imagine he was the kind of child that liked to be in charge, possibly even throwing a strop if he didn't get his own way sometimes borrowing his friend's toys and never giving them back. He must have given you a few sleepless nights growing up, quite the little rascal and I don't doubt irresistible to the ladies, you must have been chasing them off with a broom, of course that's if he brought them home."

For a moment Emily didn't know how to respond, Franks words and manner seemed to contradict each other, on one hand he appeared friendly and interested on the other his words hinted at something much darker. "He always knew his own mind and tastes, he knew he wanted better than what he had and was prepared to travel to get it, I'm very proud of his achievements."

"Of course, of course." Frank replied moving to help her clear. "Is he very like his father?"

"Oh he's a true Corey male." Emily replied smiling softly to herself, as memories of her marriage flittered through her mind, Frank smirking to himself as he saw her guard slip.

"So your husband had the taste for the finer things in life as well?" Frank asked innocently.

"What?" Emily asked confused.

"Money, fine wines, Foreign beauties…I mean first the lovely and talented Madam Gertrude de Chalvois she simply raves about him, but then again maybe that had something to do with the size of his tip…In Italy he was fighting them off practically a different woman every week, but of course now he's happily settled with one of my own country woman and a rather fine specimen at that! I mean if he wasn't upstairs with her on a regular basis I might have been tempted to dip my toe in… I suppose that's where they both are now making sure the bedsprings are getting a thorough testing… I wonder if there's a handy keyhole available after all its hardly fair that I should be the only one around here that hasn't had a butchers at that lovely… " He stopped suddenly when a certain voice cut like glass through the room.

"Sorry to disappointment Mr Keneally but you are going to have to do without your morning entertainment!" Flora snapped.

Whirling round Frank plastered a fake ingratiating smile on his face. "Mrs Ryan how delightful that you could spare us the time…I was worried that your other duties would keep you upstairs all day but then again I suppose Mr Jarvis has to give you a break occasionally wouldn't want him wearing you out completely, why then none of your other little playmates would be able to get a look in…"

However the valet's tirade was suddenly cut short when out of the blue both women lashed out simultaneously; Emily's right hand colliding with the left side of Frank's face at the same time as Flora's left caught the other. For a second the valet stood there in shock his hands automatically flying to his face to hold his stinging flesh, gingerly touching his right cheek he quickly noticed the blood on his fingers and so dashed over to the mirror, his expression of horror growing as he saw the deep cut across his chiselled cheek bone.

"You Bh!" He yelled at Flora as he whirled round to face her. "An inch higher and that could have been my eye!"

"How dare you speak to her like that? When I find my son and tell him how you've behaved…" Emily began but she was cut off when the furious Frank turned his attention to her.

"Who asked your opinion you old crone, face it nobody here wants you around, not even your own son I suppose that's why you spend all your time with that twisted faggot of a chef after all it's not like he has any friends either, not since your beloved boy found about his best friend's perverted tendencies!"

Shocked and shaking Emily turned and fled the room, intent on finding her son and both getting help and some honest answers to her questions. "Why did you do that Frank, lashing out at an old lady like that, Walter was right about you, you're all bitter and twisted no wonder no woman in her right mind would ever willingly want you near her, first Grace then Rebecca, my my you really know how to turn on the charm…" Flora sneered looking down disgustedly at the valet as if he were nothing more than one of Mr Benjamin's little accidents.

Storming over he roughly grabbed the housekeeper's wrist. "Perhaps it was time somebody declawed you, since obviously your darling Walter hasn't the balls, that'd stop you…"

But Frank tirade was suddenly cut short when he caught sight of the actual implement that had caused the damage to his face. "Well I'll be buggered, so the old goat finally managed to get a ring on your finger, not that it'll stop you after all even marriage is only a piece of paper, I doubt our little Willy boy is going to be pushed out in the cold because of it…Arrgh Don't go thinking you can get away with that little stunt again." Frank yelled as Flora raised her other hand to land another blow.

"After all the pair of you are going to be in enough trouble when I spill your wedding plans to Lord Julian, I mean servants carrying on inappropriately going behind their master's back why it could be the start of some sort of dangerous trend, and we do need to set an example now don't we?" Frank sneered as he looked Flora up and down.

"Of course given the right incentive I could be prepared to forget this information for the time being, you scratch my back I'll hump yours, so to speak…I mean I know you're a little older than me, but then youth isn't everything there is something to be said for experience and from what I've heard you've certainly got that!" Frank said backing them both towards the table. "And I wouldn't even tell your beloved Walter it could be our little secret." He added raising one hand and brushing it surprisingly softly down her flawless cheek before leaning forward to kiss her, his locked on her rosy lips.

Disgusted by the valet's suggestions Flora spat in his face, freeing her arm from his grip and storming off to the door, flinging it wide just as help arrived in the form of a very out of breath Will and George both of whom eyed the incandescent housekeeper with wary expressions. Pausing on the doorway Flora turned and addressed Frank one last time. "Oh I don't think so Mr Keneally, I'd rather be thrown out on the street with no money and no character than ever lower myself to letting you touch me, you're not even worthy of the dirtiest whores in Christendom, so take your threats and Go hIfreann leat!" And with that she turned leaving a puzzled pair of footmen gazing at the seething and bleeding Valet.

Meanwhile, upstairs breakfast is just beginning, with the under-butler the most senior in attendance. Fortunately for Felix, for the first time in a while there were less to cook for, now that Admiral and Lady Dalrimple-Sykes had just about manage to leave for London in yesterday's snowdrift, leaving the other rather stoney-faced aristocrats to sit it out without the continuous inflated stories from the Admiral. For Lady Rebecca, his ramblings had been quite fortunate, as it had meant that she could avoid conversing with her sister, but now the cold silence between many around the table is more obvious than it had ever been before. Lady Caroline barely has a kind word – if a word at all –for her beleaguered husband, whom Adams has noticed seems to get thinner and more drawn by the day, considering his young years. Rebecca stares down at her plate as George serves her bacon and eggs, Adams watching her closely from a comfortably distant position at the back of the room. She looks far worse than he expected, her eyes dull and lifeless and her perfect skin slightly blotchy and red, as if she had buried her face in her pillow all night and cried continuously until her cheeks were red raw from her salty tears. He had successfully managed to avoid her all yesterday evening, hardly surprising considering their differing status, and it had been a very difficult decision not to visit her. He had needed time to think – and drink – and even though he had sat in his room for hours after his duty finished everything was still just as unclear, if not more, after the half bottle of whiskey than before it.

Rebecca sniffs at her bacon and screws up her delicate features, gripping her stomach and staring at her eggs as if they had turned to slugs or something equally as repulsive in front of her eyes, and for a moment Adams worries she is about to throw up, morning sickness aggravated by their horrendous argument the day before. But, as ever, the Lady finds her composure and instead nibbles at a mushroom, her eyes darting from Francesca and across to Andrew in a fruitless attempt to attract his attention.

The laird forces out a smile and a brief comment about the bitterness of the weather, and that he has decided to put off his afternoon ride now that the snow had fallen heavier over night, creating three foot of snow in some areas around Taplows. For the first time, Rebecca speaks, her voice slightly cracked with emotional strain

Rebecca: Well, I may very well take a ride. I find it so stuffy sitting around the house, I need the fresh air once in a while.

Hugo leaning over to her and whispering in concern: But Becca my dear, should you?

Rebecca snorting dismissively: Why, because I'm a helpless female you mean? Unable to put up with a bit of wind and snow?

Hugo sighing in exasperation: Becca you know what I mean! You were shivering yesterday, after your ill-advised walk, I'm a bit concerned about you, see your hands are freezing and it is adequately heated in here.

Rebecca watching her father munching on his toast: Shhh! I don't want to upset father, I'm fine, I really am. It's just a bit of a chill, Hugo, stop fussing.

Adams watches their quiet conversation intently, lip reading as best he can until he is sure that Hugo is concerned for his fiancées welfare. A pang of guilt grips the under-butler, his lover obviously in a fragile way only such a short distance into her pregnancy, but then the image of her with Frank as he touches her thigh creeps into his consciousness and his anger towards her boils and rages inside him once again. He is sure that if Frank were to waltz into the dining room right that very minute he wouldn't be able to help lunging at him and beating the living daylights out of him right in front of the toffee nose of the Earl. To his sudden shock, the door edges open and his fists clench together, but he relaxes them when he sees Jarvis edge silently into the room, his usual serious expression replaced with a subtle but rather cheeky smile. Well, thinks Adams, at least someone in this Goddamn house is happy.

Rebecca turning to glare at Francesca, a sudden fire in her eyes: Franny, my dear sister, I would be most grateful if you could spare me time to chat later this afternoon, there is something that I think we should discuss. Oh, and I very much desire Monty to be present, this is something I feel I should share with you both.

Hugo pauses with his cup of tea in his hand, his eyes widening in shock. Both he and Adams realise instantly what is going to happen, and the laird shoots a concerned glance at the under-butler. But as far as Adams is concerned, if Rebecca wants to have it out with her sister then that's her business, if indeed what she said about her scheming is true.

Franny clattering down her fork, sniffing and smiling slyly: Well, of course, Becca. Do you require father to be there too? Or is it secret?

Rebecca concerned for her father's frailty: Oh, no, father mustn't be concerned with triviality such as this.

The Earl is about to join in, his gaze firmly fixed on Rebecca's face and other parts of her anatomy throughout the whole of breakfast much to his daughter's disgust, but Jarvis walks up to his chair and bends down to whisper in his ear

Jarvis clearing his throat: Pardon the intrusion, your Lordship, but may I speak with you after breakfast? Privately?

Earl frowning at such a blatant request: Good God, man, I have important business to attend to! There is a rumour that I may have to go and vote in the Chamber before Christmas, bloody inconvenience of it! Whatever it is, can't you sort it without bothering me? If it's to do with Mother's incontinence then take it up with Dr Evans, I would rather not know any more detail than is necessary!

Jarvis shaking his head as all eyes turned to him and the Earl: No, no, nothing like that. It will only take a moment, sir.

With a disapproving snort, the Earl nods and waves the butler away and rises to his feet, wiping his mouth on his napkin and smiling broadly at Lady Rebecca. He opens his mouth to speak to her, but then hesitates, for some reason thinking better of it as he glances at Hugo and frowns. Something has been worrying Jarvis on and off for the past week about his master's strange behaviour towards Lady Rebecca, a woman obviously very vulnerable of late where the male of the species is concerned. Well she would have to be a little, well, strange herself to take any interest in Mr Adams, even Jarvis could see that he is hardly the catch of the century. Poor, deluded creature. With a perverse chuckle to himself, he decides that maybe he should ask Felix what the possible attraction could be.

But, back to the concern in hand – although Jarvis has never been especially close to his Lordship, he can tell when he is planning on something, but quite what he isn't sure. If he is planning a proposal to Lady Rebecca, he knows to his dread he will be the one on the front line who will have to pick up the pieces and feel the Earl's wrath when rather than if she turns him down flat. He had to feel rather sorry for his Lordship, however, as he is in a terrible position as far as the line of succession is concerned, and any last ditch attempt to marry an attractive, healthy woman of child-bearing age had to be understandable if not a little admirable. The butler almost winces at the thought of his master being humiliated in such a fashion, as he remembers with unease the fateful party when Flora threw her ring at him. No matter how awful the Earl could be, he doesn't deserve such treatment, however understandable it might be

Ten minutes later, and Rebecca is back in her room changing into her second outfit that morning, as she has been unable to get comfortable in her first dress and corset. Lizzie tightly laces her into her fresh corset, tugging forcibly at the lace and catches and causing Rebecca to wince slightly and feel a little nauseous again. She knows she will have to tell the maid that very soon she will need easier fitting undergarments, and that her vomiting of that morning isn't the result of a contagious or illness-inducing type of outside interference. Once dressed and presentable, Rebecca perches herself on her bed and requests that Lizzie fetch the under-butler. Without even questioning the request, Lizzie nods, staring at an extremely pale Lady in mild concern before hurrying away to search for her illusive father. Another ten minutes later, and Rebecca begins to panic – what if he doesn't want to come, even though she has specifically requested he attend her? Oh, what an awful, ghastly mess! How could she not have seen how harmful Frank could be? If she had told Andrew from the start, then none of this may have happened, she wouldn't have left herself to vulnerable, to think that she very nearly let Frank go further with her after he removed her stocking, maybe Andrew is right, she's nothing but a common prostitute, she's as bad as Francesca!

In her daydream, she has failed to notice a servant standing next to her, not saying a word but looking at her intently. He gives a little cough and Rebecca's head quickly turns from her position on the bed, that same sad, dull look in her eyes. For a moment Adams feels weakness enter his expressionless stare, but he only has to glance at the bed for all those angry and bitter feelings to well up inside him again and he resolves to carry on his course of action

Adams barking a little harshly: You called for me, Lady Farquharson.

For a second Rebecca is slightly taken aback, blinking in confusion at this rather abrupt greeting that she certainly hadn't expected. Maybe a smile, a forgiving and loving touch or even angry words of hurt and tears would have been more fitting instead of an emotionless statement more appropriate between servant and mistress than between lovers.

Rebecca shaking her head and mumbling: I…er…..yes I did, Andrew. We need to talk.

Adams shifting his eyes so he is staring at the wall above her head: Was there something you required from me, m'Lady, as I am sure Elizabeth McDuff can provide you with anything you need.

Rebecca slowly standing, her stomach churning in panic: Andrew we need to talk about us! About our baby! I have said I am sorry about what happened with Frank, and I truly am, it's you I love, you know that! I waited for you for long enough, after you left, and I…….

Adams loudly cutting Rebecca off: I am sorry, m'Lady, but I have various duties to attend to for the Earl, I will fetch anything you require at this moment, but as I say Elizabeth will be in your attendance unless she is needed by Mrs Ryan.

Rebecca feels a sharp pain of despair shoot through her stomach as she stares hopelessly at an unmoving under-butler, her eyes dampening with fresh pleading tears. In her desperation, she dashes up to Adams and throws her arms around him, hugging him tightly, urging him to respond positively and hug her back, to stroke her hair like he has done so often before, kiss her lips and tell her that all is forgiven and forgotten. But instead, he doesn't even move his arms from by his side, continuing to stand there rigidly while slowly Rebecca's hopeful grip loosens and the tears silently flow down her cheeks.

Adams his voice steely and unshaken: Pardon me for saying so my Lady, but it hardly seems appropriate for a Lady of your significant stature to be in such close proximity to one in a position far less worthy of your affection.

Rebecca pulling roughly away from him and wiping away her tears: You are being ridiculous! Why do you choose to use such formality, as if we are nothing more than servant and mistress! Do not suppose to talk to me like you would my father or my sister, Andrew, I will not stand for it!

Adams his eyes flickering to meet with hers, his jaw tightening: I am only carrying out my duty, Your Ladyship.

Rebecca collapsing onto her chaise: It depends, Mr Adams, how you define your duty, does it not!

Adams feeling his nerves begin to shred and the emotion to build: My duty is to His Lordship and his guests, Lady Farquharson, I know my responsibilities well.

Rebecca blinking her tears away and regaining her composure: Well it appears that you do not, as you do not seem to realise you have a responsibility to me and the baby you helped conceive! So is that all you have to say? Are you going to let my sister and Frank Keneally ruin everything? Is this your way of telling me it is over and we are back to how we were in the beginning?

Adams opens his mouth to speak, desperate to scoop her delicate frame up in his arms, but it is no good. It's not just to do with Frank and Franny, but to do with the whole damn situation. Maybe this way is best. He supposes he could in time forgive her, but what would be the point? She is to marry Hugo, move to his big castle and have a child which will undoubtedly have two loving parents - he would soon be a distant memory to her. Maybe they could write once in a while, and maybe he could send his child birthday and Christmas presents, although it's not as if he could ever afford anything to match Hugo's gifts. Of course he still loves Rebecca, with all his heart and soul, and he always will, but it is easier for her if she thinks he doesn't want to know her or love her any more, it makes her decision to marry the laird far less of a complicated one. Yes, this is best. He is doing it for her

Rebecca gulping hard and raising her eyebrows, hardly wanting to hear his reply: Well? Are you finishing our relationship, or are you not? You either love me or you do not, it is simple.

Adams bowing his head and shutting his eyes briefly: If that is all, m'Lady, I would very much like to return to my duties.

Rebecca lets in a quiet gasp and almost stops breathing, unable to let out even one word in response as he her jaw wobbles under the strain of the emotional weight pressing down on her. She slowly nods a dismissal, lowering her eyes to stare at her hands until the under-butler has reluctantly walked through her door and away from the closest thing he has ever had to a family of his own. He pauses outside the door, convinced he can hear the sound of a chamber pot being hurriedly scraped off the floor followed by a retching. Using all his will power, he suppresses his tears as he starts on his long walk down the corridor back to the servants quarters.

George had been relieved to get back downstairs that morning, their had been such an awkward silence over breakfast. It was only 10 and the day had been more intriguing than nearly all of last week put together… if you didn't include that whole thing with Frank and Lady Rebecca. You had Mrs Ryan getting the better of Frank and now the whole group of aristocrats were only just controlling themselves at the breakfast table. He sighs to himself, he'd never understand rich people, all that money, yet they are never satisfied and now he had the morning off, could things get any better?… well he'd answer that after he'd seen Richard. He only hoped he'd got his letter in time, he'd left it pretty short.

He made his way into town, thinking to himself, what was going to happen? What was he expecting Richard to say? What was he expecting to happen when he said it? He was thinking again! Will would have said that was a bad sign, all his thoughts were jumbling up in his head, he needed a way to control them and file them in his brain… how do you do that? He was sure he wouldn't even be able to file all Mrs Ryan's papers, even though they were on paper and could be put in place… could he put his thoughts in place? Can you control your thoughts? Can you think about when you want to think about something? He was just confusing himself now!… but… he sighs. Surely you can! If he can control his thoughts about Grace while he is supposed to be concentrating on his work, surely he can control these types of thoughts. How can you have a different type of thought? A thought of someone, a thought as a question, a thought as a conclusion to the question? He'd never understand his thoughts! He'd never understand anything about himself!… but surely understanding himself is a thought and therefore is the same as never understanding his thoughts!

Maybe he just should avoid thinking all together!

His thoughts were always getting in the way, he hadn't been able to sleep, cause he'd been too busy thinking about his meeting with Richard. He couldn't get it off his mind. When he wanted to get something off his mind he'd go and see Grace, but he'd even been avoiding her, she wanted to talk about life away from Taplows… but for George at the moment, that future looked pretty far away. He'd have answers after he'd talked to Richard… he only hoped it was good news… if any news at all.

As he arrived at the Cock and Bull he saw the usually group of drunks slumped over the pavement outside, still out of it and sloshed from the night before. Inside he got himself a drink and made his way over to a table in the corner, glancing around the room for any signs of his brother.

The minutes past and George was beginning to give up hope, but he just kept convincing himself that Richard was always late… which was more of a fact than George's muddled mind trying to satisfy itself. Finally he caught sight of someone, vaguely familiar.

George: Hey Richard! he hisses and the tall, well-built man turned to look at him.

Richard: Alright Georgie? Getting himself a drink and coming to sit with George in the corner. Was worried when I got your letter? Thought something had happened?

George: Well I think that's the problem, nothing has happened!

Richard: You still got your cover here? George nods

George: Jarvis found out quite a while ago that it was a fake character and a fake name, but did nothing about it and a mate knows I gave him a fake character, but isn't suspicious of anything

Richard: You've been bleeding lucky if you ask me.

George: Yer… but just wondering… lowering his voice what's going on… at your end I mean.

Richard: Why the sudden interest? You're not considering leaving are you! sitting up straight and spluttering slightly

George: Look brother, I'm getting desperate here. Richard raises his eyebrow The girl I'm seeing wants to leave Taplows… and I need to know if it's safe.

Richard: Jesus mate! You are willing to risk everything for a lass! George nods Can't you remember any of the Sugden rules I've taught you! Women ruin everything! Have a laugh! Have a bit of roll around! But don't get involved!

George: Yes I bleeding remember but I'm not a god damn Sugden anymore, I'm a Cosmo! He sighs to himself and mutters I'm not sure who I am anymore.

Richard: You're a Sugden by blood and maybe it's about time you remember that!

George: You don't get it do you? It's not just a name, I've changed. I've lost the Sugden in me and I'm a Cosmo, I'm an individual. I've made up my own set of rules. Richard snorts and George swallows as his thoughts are let loose in his mind, thoughts of darkness and sorrow and he mutters What did you say to me? That day? Richard looks up at him and George whispers After dad had left, the day they fished mum out of the-

Richard: Yer alright! he says quickly, stopping George I remember, you were upset and had gone missing. George nods I found you in the field at the bottom of the park on that rope swing, you… dad and I built. he nods again

George: You remember what you said?

Richard: I said many things, I was 11, you were 7, how am I suppose to remember-!

George: I remember word for word! It's just you and me now Georgie boy, and we are going to do it, we are going to get there… just remember… I'll always be there for you, no matter what… I promise. Richard swallows as the past surfaces at the back of his mind You never broke that promise, you were always there for me, through everything, right up until you helped me get into Taplows. I'm asking you now, as a Sugden, as a friend… as your little brother to help me. I always looked up to you, you were my big brother, you still are… no matter how much you wish you weren't. You were my fantastic big brother, who I thought could do anything. You aren't going to break your promise now are you? Richard looks up and sighs

Richard: God you are so bloody annoying! You do realise you are going to make a piss of life?

George: Well yes, but I can make a piss of my life with or without your help. All I want to know is what the chances of them catching up with me if I were to leave Taplows. I'm not about to leave if they are going to get wind of me a week later.

Richard: Well thank god, you've got that much sense

George: Please Richie. George looks at his half worried, half annoyed face. He'd always managed to win his brother round, when he was a kid, was he really losing all that Sugden power. Sugden power! That was what Richard called it when they were kids, it was a cross between cheekiness and cleverness, he'd got from his mother, and Richard and his father had that Sugden weakness, which meant they were always won round.

That was the earliest memory he had of his mother and father, her using her Sugden power against his Sugden weakness. She'd been trying to get him to tell her where he was taking her at the weekend, he was always surprising her like that and spoiling her. The two of them had been laughing and teasing each other, not that unlike the time he'd seen Mrs Ryan and Jarvis from inside Jarvis' wardrobe. She'd won of course, like Mrs Ryan. They'd been described as the model family on their road… maybe that phrase is a jinx, cause after that, things went from perfect to the worst possible.

He'd only been young at the time and would never properly understand what had happen, all he knew was something had happened that made his father leave… he didn't know what, things had been perfect between him and his mother, but one day they woke up and all his stuff was gone along with him. After that his mother was heartbroken, it seemed pointless for her to get up in the morning without him. She could hardly even look at her sons they reminded her of her husband too much. Eventually she made up her mind, she knew he was never coming back and went missing, not more than 2 days later her body was seen floating in the River Thames. Richard was left to look after George and they managed well enough. They'd never been poor, they had enough to keep them well feed, with everything they needed. But then there was that accident a few years ago and George had been forced to go to Taplows to hide. What was once was described as a modal family were all broken up… lost.

Richard: You have to make me a promise. George looks up and Richard continues. Promise me you won't do anything stupid. I've given you a lot and I would hate for you to go and throw all that safety down the drain… no matter what this lass wants… if you love her at all, you'll let go, for her sake… think about her safety too. George nods

George: I promise.

Richard: Then I'll see what I can do, but I'm not promising anything.

George: Thanks mate! You have no idea, what this means to me!

Richard: Well what are brothers for? George grins, and looks at the clock on the wall. Damn! He was really going to have to run if he was going to get back to Taplows before lunch!

George: God! I better be going! Richard nods

Richard: I'll write. George nods and turns Hey mate! One more thing. George spins back around Is she… a bit of alright? George grins and nods

George: A bit more than a bit of alright. Richard smirks and George stands there for a moment

Richard: Well get out of here you lucky bd! George grins and turns, running back towards hell, yet feeling a lot more calm then he had an hour or so ago.

Lying back on her bed, Rebecca breathes as deeply as the constraints of her clothing will allow, shutting her eyes to try to let the nausea pass as quickly as possible. Her stomach and throat hurt from being sick so many times in one morning, but that to her is the least of her worries, now that Andrew no longer loved or wanted her. She had never seen him like that before, so cold and distant – no wonder he isn't all that popular downstairs if that's how he treats people he doesn't care for, for all she knows he could be just as aloof with Lizzie, poor child.

Very soon Rebecca succumbs to the softness of her bed, and after another bout of tears she is soon fast asleep, sprawled out on top of her covers and breathing softly. But after only what seems like a few minutes of slumber, she can suddenly feel warm air on her neck, and the slight brush of lips. Frowning and moving slightly, Rebecca moans quietly as a hand slides up her waist and over her stomach, the lips moving down her neck and chest. With her eyes still closed Rebecca calls out a sleepy 'oh, Andrew' as the weight of a body slides over her, the hands wandering more furiously down through her skirts as the lips capture hers and she returns the kiss with a passionate intensity. But stop – something isn't right! The softness of her bed has been replaced with a hard surface, and a sudden chill shudders through her body as her eyes fly open in panic. My God, it's not Andrew, it's Frank! But to her horror she is unable to fend him off, she can't even move her arms even though they aren't constrained, it's as if she is completely frozen to….yes, it's a floor, she's lying on the floor in a dark, dirty room – if one could even call it a room, it was too cold not to be outside! As Frank begins to work the lace of her dress, Rebecca looks down and sees her dress is almost black with dirt, her arms smudged as if she had been rolling around in the stuff. Glancing around, terror-stricken, Rebecca notices through the murky darkness that they are surrounded by what looks like coal; yes he must have brought her here, to the coal cellar, while she was still asleep! Frank doesn't say a word, but simply smiles, as there is nothing for him to reply to because Rebecca can't utter a word or a scream, completely paralysed by whatever he has done to her.

Completely helpless, Rebecca can only watch in disgust and distress as Frank kisses every inch of her exposed, icy skin, until once again he glances up at her, but……Andrew! She gasps as the Frank who had been touching her has suddenly become Andrew, still in the coal cellar. The roughness of Frank changes immediately to a familiar soft caress and loving touch, making her feel safe and warm, as confused tears of hurt and love trickle down her smudged cheeks. Andrew mutters something inaudible, but Rebecca still can't move or ask him to repeat it, all she can do is let him hold her. Just as she begins to calm, Frank reappears, Andrew has gone and the valet laughs viciously, pulling and ripping at her dress….suddenly Rebecca finds her voice and begins to scream shrill, piercing cries which seem to go on for hours in her mind, until….until….Hugo! Hugo! No longer Frank, or Andrew, Hugo is lying on top of her softly whispering her name over and over, shaking her gently even though she is wide awake, while she stares at him in confusion in the coldness of the coal cellar…..

Hugo tapping Rebecca's arm: Becca, wake up! Wake up, for goodness sake!

Rebecca's eyes fly open and she hurriedly sits bolt upright, scanning the room furiously and panting heavily, her brain quickly trying to work out where the hell she is. But she is in her room, and her dress is spotlessly clean, without a valet or under-butler in sight. Gulping hard, Rebecca turns to see Hugo perched on the end of her bed, a look of concern on his dashing features. After only a short pause, she flings her arms around his neck and hugs him tight, fresh tears flowing as he hushes her.

Hugo running his fingers through her hair: You wouldn't stop screaming, I didn't know what to do, I thought you were being attacked or something equally ghastly!

Rebecca sobbing into his shoulder: Oh Hugo, I've made such a beastly mess of everything, I really have! And how I've treated you, oh how can you even bear to look at me! I can't let you marry me, I just can't, I'd never forgive myself, turning you into something you're not!

Hugo pulling away and holding her hands, shaking his head: Rebecca, you're being ridiculous! I'm going to marry you, and that's all there is to it! You know I love you!

Rebecca her chin wobbling pathetically: You only love me as a sister or best friend.

Hugo shaking his head in exasperation: Yes, but…..

Rebecca dabbing her eyes on the back of her hand: There shouldn't be a 'but' though, Hugo! You shouldn't have to marry me, we know that we will just end up resenting each other, and the child, caught in the middle of parents who do not love each other as they should!

Hugo hugging her again protectively: What's brought all this on, Becca? You've been so – so strange lately, not the Becca I know and love, it's as if all your carefree existence has gone and now you do nothing but cry and worry, when you never used to be like that.

Rebecca resting her chin on his shoulder: Well life's not carefree, is it Hugo? It's not all lovely and simple, we both know it's not, you know more than me how hard it is to pretend and to lie and to ignore your feelings, repressed by this – this horrible society that takes away our freedom to do what is in our heart, prevents us from being with those who matter most to us!

Hugo: Has Andrew said something to you, has he….Becca, tell me what's happened!

Rebecca leaping to her feet and swishing over to the window to gaze out: All I want is to be with him, don't you see? And if I can't, then I can't burden you with me, you're too good for that, I will only bring you sadness! I don't care what happens to me any more, but I care for you so after I give birth, I will hand over my child to you, so you can bring it up, as I know you will be an excellent father. At least I can give you that much! Haven't you always wanted children!

Hugo tentatively walking up behind her, utterly shocked: Yes but…..but the child will need its mother! You don't know what you're saying my dear, you're talking in riddles – firstly you think the child will be scarred by a dysfunctional parentage while at the same time you want me to bring it up without you? It must be the pregnancy, making you not think straight, come and have a cup of tea, you'll feel much better.

Rebecca spinning round and glaring at him almost resentfully: Don't patronise me, Hugo, you know me better than that! Things have happened lately to make me question everything, and now my decision is final!

Hugo throwing his arms in the air in slightly camp manner: But where will you go? What will you do! If you refuse to marry me then I insist you stay with me in Scotland until the baby is born – no, not just until the baby is born but forever, you can have your own wing!

Rebecca sadly lowering her head, her voice cracked with emotion: No, no, that's worse than not marrying you, your reputation would be in tatters, and I know how much it means to you. I can stay through the pregnancy, but we can think of a reason why I left the baby with you, I have a little money put by, I can buy a small property, maybe by the sea, I don't care for trappings of wealth, you know that! Maybe we could lie and pretend we married in secret, but I couldn't cope so left you, but I can't marry you for real, my darling, sweet man. There would be little point, and besides I would be too much of a financial burden, and marriage is a sacred thing, we wouldn't even be able to consummate it.

To Rebecca's complete surprise, Hugo breaks down, sobbing silently as he collapses in front of her, cradling his head in his hands, a broken man. Gasping, she falls to her knees and draws him in, wrapping her arms around him and rocking him, despising herself for what she has put this gentle, caring man through. It is almost a minute before the laird can utter words through his tears

Hugo: I am such a poor, useless excuse for a man! I can provide you with wealth and warmth, but I cannot give you what you would desire, and I feel helpless for it. But I will marry you if you change your mind, my offer still stands. And it will do until my dying day.

Rebecca smiling softly through her sadness: I know, I know.

Hugo kissing her forehead: I will do everything in my power to help you. If you insist on leaving after the baby is born, I have friends in London who will be more than happy to provide you with a home until you find your own, and of course you will be welcome to see your child as often as you wish. But what of Andrew?

Rebecca glancing away and frowning: I will have no requirement for a male servant, a maid will be adequate for the size of property I will look for.

Hugo sighing and rising to his feat: Becca, you know what I mean! He loves you, you know he does.

Rebecca: No he doesn't, not any longer. He…..he's just gone off me, that's all.

Hugo blowing his nose and regaining his stiff upper lip: I will talk to him. You cannot be right.

Rebecca as Hugo helps her to her feet: No! Please, do not mention anything. Some things are best left, Hugo, you'll only make things worse.

Hugo hugging Rebecca again, and muttering gloomily over her shoulder: I don't think things could actually get any worse

Up in the Earl's bedroom, Adams is bored out of his brain. His master has changed waistcoats four times, not allowing the under-butler to leave for reasons completely unbeknown to him, even though the Earl's valet is as Adams stands there (and to his full knowledge) down in the servants quarters stuffing his face with cake with his feet on the table. If the Earl had even bothered to look in Adams' direction even once, he would have seen the utter mindlessness on his face, but instead he chats away at him rather than to him, marching up and down his bedroom in some sort of over-excited frenzy

Earl posing in front of his mirror, hands on hips: Right, Adams, what do you think of this one!

Adams rolling his eyes and faking a smile: Well, it looks…….

Earl tugging at his dark blue waistcoat: Marvellous, well it'll be this one then, glad we've decided on that! It's very important to look your best, you know, when you're in my position, a lot of people look up to me, and it's for men like myself to lead the way in this world!

Adams fully controlling his distain: Aye, sir, indeed it is.

The Earl pulls on his trousers, with Adams' reluctant help, and after a few grunts finally manages to fasten them. Adams finds it very difficult not to laugh at the peculiar sight of his master trying to stretch round trousers obviously too small for him, now that he had begun eating more prodigiously since Lord Fiffington-Piffles was caught, but then suddenly thinks with mild agitation that he is hardly one to talk and maybe he needs to attend Mrs Diggins' Weight Watchers classes again.

Just as Adams thinks that maybe he might finally be dismissed, the Earl quite unexpectedly heaves off a painting from the wall to reveal his safe. A rush of panic rises in the under-butler's chest as he Earl twists the combination, hoping to God that Jarvis managed to put back the pistols without trouble, but to his relief his master doesn't even go near the pistol box, instead fishing out a much smaller, square velvet box, a huge grin on his flushed face

Earl spinning round to Adams and opening the box: See this in here? Was my grandmother's engagement ring, don't think you could ever afford something like this!

Adams far more intrigued with whom he may be propositioning than the comment: Indeed not, sir, it is beautiful.

Earl snapping the lid shut and smoothening his hair in the mirror: It is fit for a lady, is what it is. Tell me, Addis………

Adams: Adams, sir….

Earl brushing the interruption aside in annoyance: Adams, whatever – tell me, do you think women may find me attractive?

Adams stuck for words not only out of utter shock: Well, er, it's not something I've ever really thought about, sir.

Earl opening a bottle and splashing much of the contents onto his neck and face: No, of course it isn't, you're right. You are Scottish though? That is a Scottish accent I can detect?

Adams rocking on his heels uneasily: Yes, I'm from Glasgow, sir.

Earl jumping up and clapping his hands together: Excellent! Well, in that case, you can tell me a bit about the female Scottish temperament! I have a little – well – business to attend to tonight.

As the strange stench of the Earl's aftershave begins to overwhelm Adams a little too much, it starts to become a little less hazy as to his master's intentions, alarm bells beginning to ring in his ears. First the ring, now asking about Scottish females, what on earth is the old duffer up to?

Adams his mouth drying slightly: Well, sir, they can sometimes be a little…fiery, I suppose the word is. Know their own minds, and can be stubborn as mules, my Lord.

Earl frowning and rubbing his chin: Hmmm. Know their own minds, eh? Don't mind the fiery side, though, gives them a bit more 'umph' in the sack, what!

Adams smiles weakly, his legs beginning to buckle slightly under him in disgust. There is only one Scottish firebrand he could possibly be interested in staying at Taplows at this current time, and it certainly isn't Lizzie.

Earl edging towards Adams and lowering his voice: Do you think you could possibly have a word with Mrs Ryan, about a certain Lady Rebecca? I know Rebecca has spent time talking to her, for no good reason I can think of, but I thought maybe…..well, she could ask her what she thinks of me?

Adams his eyes widening in amusement rather than worry: But sir, if you don't mind me saying so, Lady Rebecca is already engaged to be married.

Earl snorting and huffing in contempt: Yes, well, I won't worry about that for now. Minor issue. I intend to approach Lady Rebecca after dinner tonight, so I won't want to be disturbed, but don't band it about, keep it under your hat.

Adams nodding obediently: Aye, sir.

What a bloody foolish idiot the Earl is, Adams muses as his adjusts his Lordship's necktie. How on earth can he think that a woman as fine as Rebecca would go for an aging, fat, blundering duffer like him! One thing Rebecca has is good taste in men, most certainly!

At least with marrying Hugo, Rebecca knows that there is no romantic commitment, but if she chose to marry the Earl, well, she would know what he would expect of her and that she would have to do her duty as a wife. The idea is ludicrous – preposterous, in fact. So incredibly laughable that really Adams shouldn't give it another thought, except to chortle to himself. Besides, she would never do that to him, hurt him so blatantly by committing herself sexually to his own master.

But something at the back of his mind niggles, a slight pang of worry, so maybe he should speak to Hugo about it, just to put his mind at rest. He couldn't face the idea of seeing Rebecca to discuss anything, especially talk of marriage to anyone but him, so best stay out of it and let Rebecca let down the Earl privately and with minimum fuss. And anyway, if the Earl found out that he had told Hugo, or even hinted to Rebecca, then he would be out on his ear no questions asked, and with things like they are Adams can't afford to lose his job right now with nowhere else to go but back to the grime and debt of the Glaswegian slums. But would listening at the door when the Earl and Rebecca are alone do any harm? He could easily send away the footmen, be on door duty, just to make sure she was alright afterwards of course, nothing to do with his own peace of mind. Yes, that may be just what he'll do.

Later that day once the aristocrats had been fed and watered the senior servants gathered once more for this time for lunch and for the first time in ages every single one was present; much to the delight of Mr Kraus who of course put the high attendance level down to his excellent cooking rather than the fact that practically everybody had missed breakfast and was by now so starving they would have gobbled down even Andrew Adam's slightly dodgy culinary efforts. Sitting at the head of the table Jarvis gazed round contentedly at the rest of his staff, all except Frank of course who he purposefully ignored. He'd been informed by several sources of Frank's conduct towards both Flora and his mother that morning and for a moment Jarvis's eyes hardened it was only a matter of time before the valet slipped up and then he'd be able to settle is account with that whelp in full.

Shaking his head slightly in an effort to dispel his unpleasant thoughts Jarvis joined in the dinner conversation, unable to keep the broad smile from his face which caused some to raise their eyebrows in surprise and whisper conspiratorially behind their napkins, something was certainly afoot! Seeing her son in such an obviously buoyant mood sent alarm bells ringing in Emily's mind he had to be up to something and she knew she wouldn't have to look far to work out the cause of his good humour. Glancing across to her son's right she caught sight of the housekeeper, and for once Flora appeared in almost a good a mood as Walter as she chatted away to Bridgette apparently the pair had managed to come to some sort of an understanding, and were now locked in conversation about fashion or travelling or both. Something was definitely going on here, and she was determined to get to the bottom of it!

As if noticing his mother's piercing gaze for the first time Walter turned to smile at her, and he could tell from the unmistakable glint in her eyes that she knew he was hiding something. How could parents do that? Always tell when their children were lying or were keeping something secret from them; well however she did it Jarvis just hoped it was an inherited trait, especially if the children turned out like him instead of Flora. Gazing lovingly to his right, his eyes softened as he beheld the exquisite creature by his side, his ring sitting proudly on her finger for all to see and Jarvis was surprised no one had yet to ask them outright.

Leaning forward Walter caught his mother's eye on purpose this time, before muttering quietly. "Mother would you be so kind as to join me for a drink after dinner this evening I think it is about time we caught up with each other, haven't had a proper chat in ages."

"Well we've both been busy…And talking of busy I did promise Felix I'd help him with decorating his special cherry pies for tomorrow…" Emily began but was cut off by a suddenly sullen butler.

"Well if he's more important to you than talking to me…." Jarvis started huffily, sulking at the thought of his deviously laid plan going awry.

"That wasn't what I meant!" Emily snapped back interrupting her son. "I only mentioned it because it means I won't be able to come straight to your parlour after dinner, however if you can't wait half an hour…" Emily added her own temper rising in the face of her son's continued hostility towards Felix, especially now she knew what it was over, she never thought her son would be the type to turn on a good friend over something like that.

"Don't worry Emily we can wait!" Flora cut in suddenly almost like a referee between to sparring partners. "After all it gives us time to talk first!" Flora added turning to glare at Walter and whispering in a soft yet firm tone. "You have some news for me, do you not? After all I think you've kept me waiting long enough, I've been on tender hooks all morning and every time I've asked it's been the same reply, 'I'll tell you later!' well I think now is late enough don't you?"

"Perhaps…?" Jarvis muttered teasing leaning forward and surreptitiously sliding his hand underneath the table to rest on her knee, which he gave a loving squeeze before adding, "If you promise to be good I could be persuaded to tell you before Mother arrives…" He trailed off suggestively whilst running his hand along her skirt and caressing her thigh through the material causing Flora to sudden stiffen in her seat. "Otherwise I'll make you wait until she does!" He added finally.

"Well you'd better tell me!" Flora added frostily glancing around the room to make sure no one suspected what was going on before reaching down to capture his hand, and giving it a bone crunching squeeze which made Walter wince slightly, gritting his teeth against the pain, before she continued "Or you're going to find yourself particularly lonely this evening!"

"Now you don't expect me to take that threat seriously?" Walter replied through clenched teeth. "It's not like you've been able to restrain yourself in the past… And besides don't we have a certain something we're supposed to be working on, namely a family, a missed opportunity could mean months of waiting?...See I knew despite all indications that you women can be reasonable on occasion!" He added smirking smugly as the housekeeper grudgingly released his hand.

"Arghhhhh…" Flora hissed under her breath, her quick temper flaring at the sight of the self-satisfied look of victory on Walter's face. "You have a point…FOR ONCE!" She added her voice building from barely a whisper to almost a bellow causing the rest of the staff to turn and stare at her in amazement, and Flora spotted out of the corner of her eye Frank Keneally smirking maliciously at the couple's quarrel.

"Anything the matter?" Frank enquired, a look of phoney concern plastered on his handsome face.

"Absolutely nothing that concerns you Mr Keneally!" Jarvis quickly retorted barely able to hide his contempt for the valet.

"It didn't sound like nothing… If you and Mrs Ryan are in disagreement over something may I offer my services as a mediator? After all it might do her good discussing things with somebody else, I'm sure between us we work out what is what, and give her agenda a proper going over." Frank replied glancing over at Flora his eyes openly raking over her body before locking with Jarvis's as they narrowed in outrage.

"Thank you Mr Keneally but I think something's are better dealt with yourself!" Flora said quickly, glancing worried over at Walter who looked like he was about to throw his knife at the Valet's head he was gripping it so hard, and so she gently reached out covering his shaking hand with her own and squeezing it reassuringly. On feeling her touch Walter broke off his staring match with the valet and turned to look into Flora's pleading gaze, his feelings of anger started to subside when their eyes locked and he could see the obvious fear and yet underlying devotion towards him.

"Well that appears to be settled, so we'll not being needing to take you up on your KIND offer!" Walter said, sarcasm practically dripping from his every word, as he glanced back towards the sniggering Valet.

"As you wish…Although Mrs Ryan if you feel the need please do ask for my assistance, I am well versed at giving ladies a shoulder to cry on and know just what to do, if you need reassurance ask Lady Rebecca and I'd be happy to extend you the same courtesy…Just say the word!" Frank added such an expression of goodness and honesty in his tone that none of the senior staff except the butler could understand why the housekeeper suddenly went as white as a sheet, her hand flying to her mouth as if to stop herself from vomiting.

"Let me assure you that will never happen Mr Keneally!" Flora managed to gasp out before suddenly getting to her feet and storming from the room, Jarvis sat stunned for a moment before jumping to his feet, flinging his napkin down on the table he turned to leave but not before glaring at Frank with such an expression of disgust and loathing that it sent a shiver down the Valet's spine and caused the rest of the staff to pause and wonder. Then suddenly he was gone, searching for the woman he loved, leaving them all to eat their lunch and gossip in his absence.

However for Flora the last person she wanted to see at that moment was Walter, she knew he would be trying to find her, probably in an effort to reassure her not to worry about that monster Keneally as he would protect her and she'd end up practically living in a prison. Why couldn't he understand, hadn't the incident with Rebecca taught him nothing about that man? Flora had realised long ago that despite all his efforts even Walter would not be able to protect her from men like Keneally, if he was determined to hurt her then he would be content to bide his time and wait for an opportunity for Walter's guard to drop. There was only person at Taplows who would truly understand the way she felt, perhaps between the two of them they would come up with a cunning plan to remove the valet's contaminating presence from Taplows forever? Hurrying her pace Flora turned and headed into the main body of the house.

In a matter of minutes she stood outside of Lady Rebecca's door, taking a deep breath Flora knocked tentatively, in truth she was slightly wary of the reception she would get as she hadn't visited her friend since the night of the attack. Not because she hadn't wanted to but she had realised that she was one of the few people Rebecca might want to talk about it to, tell her things that she would be unwilling to confide to either Andrew or Hugo, and being truly honest Flora hadn't felt up to the job. She already had her own personal demons to fight and perhaps selfishly had purposely avoided her friend; she had finally managed to move on from her ordeal in the chapel, and grasp a little happiness and she knew that when Rebecca started to unburden herself it would inevitably trigger memories of her own dark past. However glancing down at the beautiful ring that once more lay on her finger she suddenly felt strong enough. She had the prospect of a happy future to look forward to with a man that she adored, and hope to cling to that someday soon she would hold their child in her arms, no matter what happened from now on she would be supported by a loving family and with that sort of back up there was nothing she couldn't accomplish.

More determined this time she knocked louder, and the door was suddenly opened by the slightly dishevelled aristocrat, Flora could just make out the room behind her at it looked as unkempt as its owner. However any further silent reflection was quickly curtailed when and impatient Rebecca asked in a slightly acerbic tone. "Yes Mrs Ryan how can I help you?"

"I came to say I'm sorry, I should have been to visit sooner…" Flora began her eyes taking in Rebecca's crumpled dress and red eyes, before she stopped dead. "What's happened, is it Frank or maybe Andrew?"

"Why would you care?" Rebecca snapped before turning back into her room but leaving the door open for Flora to follow. "I thought you were my friend but one of the times I really needed you here you desert me! And why, so you can spend all your time cavorting with your Walter….Don't even try to deny it I was so desperate I even asked Lizzie why you hadn't been to see me. I'd just argued with Andrew and I needed someone to talk to, someone who would understand and yet you'd gone out with your beloved Mr Jarvis. I even had her deliver a note to your office to come and visit me later that evening when you got back; I waited up for hours and yet you never came, never even sent word why you couldn't!" Rebecca yelled accusingly, her red curls flying about her face as she turned to face the housekeeper, tears gathering in her eyes for the umpteenth time that day, but her cheeks were flushed with anger.

"I was busy, the Earl has been very demanding since he knows I'm leaving, I think he wants to extract as much work as possible as punishment for my impertinence, and what with the extra guests and not to mention the children to look after I barely have time to attend my own meals…"Flora began to reply her tone indignant.

"Funny it's seems you have time in your schedule to go walking with your darling Walter! That's of course if you were out walking and hadn't just sneaked upstairs for a quicky on the Earls time?" Rebecca hissed her anger giving way to bouts of hysteria!

"How dare you!" Flora retorted her few qualms about yelling back at a lady now swept away. "It was nothing of the sort; we had lots of important things to discuss…."

"And they couldn't have waited a few hours?" Rebecca asked sarcasm dripping from her words.

"No they couldn't! I'm sorry Rebecca but there are something's that are more important, I didn't come to see you because I couldn't face it! Frank attacking you, well it brought back a lot of awful memories, and that was something Walter and I needed to deal with on our own…We needed to do that together, just like dealing with the repercussions of Frank attacking you is something that you and Andrew have to do together!"

"Well how can we? He's ended it, we're finished, he doesn't love me anymore!" Rebecca added collapsing on the chaise lounge and burying her face in a cushion, for a moment Flora hesitated before moving over and enfolding her sobbing friend in her arms.

"I'm sorry I didn't know I thought you'd be alright, I thought he'd be here looking after you…If I had known…." Flora whispered after a few minutes as she smoothed Rebecca's hair from her tear stained face, rocking her gently in her arms.

"I know you would have… I guess I just needed someone here who I could lash out at, I even quarrelled with Hugo earlier and we've never argued before… I got so confused I even called off the engagement."

"No you can't!" Flora exclaimed, "The baby you'll be ruined, Rebecca you have to marry you know that!"

"I know I do, but I can't do that to Hugo or my child… Our entire family would be a lie and as for Andrew…I don't know what I'm going to do, I don't want to be separated from my child but the only other option is to marry Hugo and that just isn't right!"

"But if he doesn't mind…" Flora began trying desperately to think of a way round the situation.

"I mind Flora! I want to marry a man who I can have a proper marriage with, preferably love as well, but if Andrew won't have me and I just can't marry Hugo then what can I do?" Rebecca pleaded.

"I honestly don't know, perhaps if you tried talking to Andrew, It's obvious to anyone how much he loves you…"

"No he doesn't he despises me now, oh Flora I did something so stupid I can barely think of it now without cringing…. I encouraged him…" Rebecca added before falling silent her beautiful eyes falling to her lap.

"I don't understand encouraged who?" Flora asked puzzled.

"Frank." Rebecca replied softly.

"WHAT!" Flora exclaimed.

"Oh please don't you turn on me too, I just couldn't handle it Flora, I thought he was harmless and I led him on but only because I knew he was reporting back to Franny and I wanted him to feed her false information, tell her that Andrew and I were over so she would leave us alone. But the only way that I thought he would believe me was if I ignored Andrew and made him believe I was falling for him. But when I told Andrew this he couldn't bare to look at me, he thinks I'm some cheap whore he practically said as much. If only I'd known what he was really like…"

"But I told you, Jesus Rebecca I told you he was not to be trusted, to stay far away from him and you promised me solemnly you would! I would have thought if anything, even if you could ignore all the obvious signs that he was an evil person that you would have trusted my greater knowledge of the man!"

"I know I promised… But I couldn't see any other way and he seemed so charming and attentive I found I couldn't help myself, you of all people now what that's like, so at the time it was hardly a chore. I just thought you had been so against him because he and Walter didn't get along."

"And why do you think Walter hates him so much? He's not an irrational fool; if he had been then god knows Mr Adams would have been out on his ear months ago… Walter knows that Frank isn't to be trusted, do you really think you're the first he's tried…" But then Flora cut off the memories of Frank's threats against her coming immediately to mind.

"Why didn't you tell me that?" Rebecca asked. "Who, when, what did he do?"

"I don't know the details but before he left last time there was some incident with Grace, they were engaged at the time and I think Mr Cosmo arrived in time to stop anything serious, and now…" Flora trailed off her words sticking in her throat.

"Now?" Rebecca asked. "What's happening now, surely he isn't making more threats against me?" She added panic obvious in her voice.

"No you're safe, Frank may be the basest human being alive, but even he still has some basic instinct for self preservation!"

"Then who?" Rebecca asked but on catching the latent look of fear in Flora's eyes she flung her hand over her mouth as she gasped in disbelief. "No he hasn't tried…"

"He's made threats to both Walter and myself and then this morning he tried blackmail me into sleeping with him, he even tried to kiss me but don't worry I soon told him where to go!"

"But why would he think he could blackmail you…Oh My God he hasn't found out about a certain rendezvous in the stables with a certain person who shouldn't be mentioned has he?" Rebecca asked clutching both of Flora's hands in her own.

"God No nothing like that, no he just threatened to tell Lord Julian about Walter and me…" Flora replied.

"But surely he's had ample opportunity to do that why hasn't he?" Rebecca asked puzzled.

"Well he hasn't had any proof of a Liaison before it would be just his word against ours but now, and to be honest Frank getting in first and passing on a twisted version to Lord Julian and then to his lordship well it could cause so many problems. Knowing Frank he'd turn our romance into something sordid, paint the picture that we're involved in all these sadistic practices and leading the rest of the staff in a downward spiral into sin and debauchery. If the Earl believed him we could both be sacked without characters and neither of us relish the idea of starting married life out on the street." Flora added softly.

"MARRIED!" Rebecca exclaimed, her eyes falling for the first time to Flora's left hand where the sapphire sparkled merrily. "Oh Flora it's beautiful, so simple and perfect!" She added as she seized the housekeeper's hand and examined her ring at length.

"I do love it, I still can't believe Walter's carried it all this time in the hope I'd change my mind, did you know he wore it on a cord round his neck, he said it kept me close to his heart even when I was being absolutely beastly to him. Then when we were talking yesterday, we dealt with so many ghosts and I told him about wanting to try for another baby, I don't know it just felt so right and I just knew this was what I wanted. He's already talked to the Earl this morning but the cad won't tell me what the old goat said, we want to do everything properly this time no sneaking about, a proper wedding but soon, as soon as can be arranged actually. We're telling his mother this evening and I just know she's going to take over, but considering the amount of work I have normally it'll be a relief to hand over the arrangements to someone else. I just hope we can get it all sorted before we go on our trips and preferably before you leave, you so have to be there even if we have to smuggle you out of the house dressed as a maid!" Flora added giggling.

"I'd like that." Rebecca added softly, she was genuinely delighted to see Flora so openly ecstatic and happy with her life, but in her heart she couldn't help feeling another stab of pain. Not for the first time she felt a flash of jealousy towards her friend, it wasn't fair that Flora was free to marry for love whilst she was constrained to marry only within an elite group or faced being ostracised. "Please pass on my congratulations to Walter; I hope you'll both be very happy."

"Yes but what about you and Andrew?"

"Flora please just leave it, he's made his feelings plain to me and I'm too exhausted with these cat and mouse games of his…I will sort it out but in my own way and if he can't forgive me then he never truly loved me anyway and I'm better off without him." Rebecca replied determinedly.

"But.."

"No Buts Flora I know your trying to be kind but for once my sister had a point, how could it have worked out between us, I'm a lady and he is a servant we are worlds apart and perhaps it is time that I grew up and realised that, since Andrew obviously already has!" Rebecca added bitterly.

"If you need anything don't hesitate to let me know, believe me I know what the early stages of pregnancy are like and it can't be easy having to hide it from everyone, so if you need dresses loosening or extra bowls for the morning let me know and I'll arrange it." Flora said softly, patting Rebecca's hand reassuringly before rising reluctantly off of the chaise as Rebecca's delicate carriage clock chimed the hour. "I really have to be going as I'm supposed to be at a meeting with the ladies maids in five minutes, I'll come and see you for elevenses tomorrow, hopefully by then Walter will have put me out of my misery and I'll know what on earth is going on." She added before leaning forward and kissing the silent Lady on the cheek.

"Take care of yourself till then!" Flora muttered before turning and heading towards the door, her concerns for her friend growing with every step.

As she closed the door behind her Flora leant back against it, her head tilting upward as if to communicate directly with the almighty, she whispered a prayer under her breath, oh please let some angel watch over her and keep her from foolish actions; after all Flora knew only too well what it felt like to be pregnant and all alone she only hoped Rebecca would be stronger than she had been and resist the temptation to do something stupid.