A/N: For the July 2014 Fanfiction Bonanza. I didn't exactly follow the rules. But I'm not good at following the rules in my writing. Thanks to A-Tardis-At-Downton for a lovely set of prompts! And Happy Independence Day to all fellow rebels out there! No offense to loyalists and royals alike! :)
July 1st Prompt: Novel
Clouds gathered over Downton town and meager sunlight streamed through clouds to anoint two sets of practically tucked tresses. The one head, wider than its companion, sported clusters of bright red curls. The second was more angular, as was the prudent yet gentle face beneath its brunette waves. Both heads were now turned, watching the figure of a young woman as it made its way down the lane to the post office, its progress hindered slightly by a heavy basket, hooked determinedly over one thin arm. As the traveler disappeared through the post office door, the brown haired observer's lips parted and a fond sigh escaped.
"Was that Daisy I just saw?" Mr. Carson inquired, coming up behind Downton's housekeeper and cook, and peering in the direction of the post office.
"Yes," Mrs. Hughes replied, turning over her shoulder to meet his furrowed brow.
"One of the lads in the post office has taken a fancy to her. He says he wants to learn how to cook. So she's been teaching him," Mrs. Patmore supplied.
Mr. Carson offered a "Hmm," which was not disapproving, but not delighted either.
"It's a novel approach, I must admit, but then it's been years since I've been courting so what do I know?" Mrs. Hughes remarked.
"No matter what I tell her, she won't believe he's stuck on her. She swears he's only interested in the food," Mrs. Patmore shook her head.
"How do you know he's interested?" Mr. Carson asked.
The venerable cook scoffed slightly. "Because I've got eyes, haven't I? The way he looks at her—like he's been lost at sea for months and she's dry land."
Mrs. Hughes stifled a laugh.
"I see," said Mr. Carson, with gravity. "And is this 'lad' good enough for our Daisy?"
Both heads now swiveled towards the butler, and two pairs of raised eyebrows were leveled at him.
"While I can't entirely hold with a member of the staff having followers," Mr. Carson explained, "it seems that the times have overborne me. And as long as she is going to have one, I want him to be worthy of her."
With that pronouncement, he turned to head back to the Abbey. The ladies, after exchanging an amused glance, turned to follow him.
