Tom sat in the parlour, scribbling down some ideas for his next article. He was surprised that Sybil hadn't finished her shift at the hospital yet but she often ran over and came home late, helping with patients who weren't on her watch. He put down his pen and looked out of the window. It was getting dark and raining outside; he thought of going to the hospital to walk Sybil home, he didn't want her to exhaust herself working all hours. But he didn't want to suffocate her either so he put another log on fire instead. As he was kneeling on the hearth he heard steps on the stairs outside the flat and a moment later Sybil opened the door. She was a little breathless as if she'd been running and her hair was damp from the rain but she was beaming.
" You look like one of the footmen at Downton," she teased taking off her coat, " don't let Carson see you, a chauffeur lighting the fire in the drawing room."
" Well, I'd like to complain Milady," he said relieved to see her home.
"Yes Branson?" She said playing along.
"I haven't been paid any wages."
" Will this do," said Sybil giving him a kiss on the lips.
" You're soaked," he said touching her hair affectionately.
"I know," Sybil replied kneeling by the fire, " It was raining and I didn't take the umbrella. I don't mind." He put his arm around her and they sat for a moment listening to the crackling of the fire. Sybil turned to look up into Tom's face.
" Tom," she said, "I've got something— to tell you."
Tom looked concerned, " What? What is it?"
" Don't worry, it's nothing bad— it's good. It's a good thing." Sybil almost couldn't talk for smiling, "but it will change things" she added. Tom had an idea of what she was going to say and he smiled breathlessly. " Oh my god, are you? Are you really?" he asked. She laughed at his shock and nodded " two months." "You're pleased?" She added pressing her hand against his.
"Of course. Of course I am my darling," he said taking her face in his hands and kissing her.
Thanks for reading! This was written as part of a friendly one shot competition between me and Countess of Grantham. Always love reviews so feel free to post them good or bad! (Also the more favourites/ reviews I get the more chance I have of winning hehe) :)