Disclaimer: I do not own any of the Prometheus or Alien Characters.

Exciting First Day

The days had come and gone for David as he prepared for his new employment. He was a little anxious to say the least as he put on his uniform since today was his first day as head butler for the Holloway household. He buttoned up his vest, one at a time, as he admired the scenery from his new window. It was early morning. The sun was just barely peaking over the mountains.

He tugged on his white gloves as he spared a final glance at the view before taking a glance at his pocket watch. 6:45AM. His notes concluded that the Master was to be woken everyday at 7 unless told otherwise. The Mistress was to be woken by the maid. Satisfied, David put it away and put on his tail coat. With one final glance in the mirror he straightened his appearance. "Time to work."

David was sure to familiarize himself with the manor's interior the previous evening. One of the other servants had offered him one of the original drafts of when it was first built. Not that it did David too much good since it had been renovated several times since. But its bones as it were, still remained the same.

Finding his way to the master bedroom was relatively easy considering this was his first time going towards it. He opened the large doors with ease, noting the two longs bumps on the king sized bed. He makes his way to the window and pulls the curtains open. The new light brightening up the room and making the bed's occupants grunt in protest.

David came forward with a pair of slippers and placed them on the floor next to what he assumed was Mr. Holloway, then took the robe off of the hanger. "Master Holloway, it's time wake up."

The master groaned in response and lifted his head to leer at David. His eyes were bloodshot, hair askew, light stubble. He blinked at him a few times before sniffing and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He threw off the blanket and sat up with a loud yawn. He turned towards David and let his feet drop as they snuggled into the slippers.

He held the robe open for him as he stood up and allowed him to place it on his arms and straighten it on. Fastening the belt when Master Holloway finally spoke, "What is on the agenda for today, David?"

David pulled away and straightened. "You have a meeting with your business partner Elliott Lawrence at ten. Afterwards, a physician will be arriving for Mrs. Holloway's checkup at noon. At three-o-clock, one of your associates will be arriving with a proposal for possible expansion. That will be the final visit this day."

"Meal times?" He asked as he had David follow him to the bathroom.

"Breakfast will deserved at 9 am sharp. Lunch at noon-"

Master Holloway interrupted, "How will my wife be receiving her lunch if the doctor arrives at the same time?"

David had planned ahead for this. With a short glance at the curly hair under the blanket he continued. "I'll be sure that Mrs. Holloway will receive her lunch during the physician's time here."

"Good. And dinner?" He asked.

"At 7 sharp."

"Excellent, that will be all for now, David. I will see you in the dining room." He dismissed.

David bowed respectfully. "Very good, Master."

The Master and his wife entered the dining hall later that morning. Master Holloway took his seat at the head of the table while the Mistress took a seat to the right. David and other servants brought out different platters containing the cuisine.

As the plates were placed in front of them, David gave each description wth poise. "For breakfast this morning we are serving a fried egg, black pudding, baked beans, and toast. Served alongside with chamomile tea." Each plate was uncovered and Master Holloway began to eat almost immediately. But David noticed that Mrs. Holloway however was more rather picking at her food.

"Ellie, something wrong?" Master Holloway asked, also noticing his wife's lack of appetite.

Mrs. Holloway jolted at her name being called and looked up to smile at her husband. "Not at all, darling. I'm just not that hungry. I was a little ill earlier this morning." She rubbed her stomach, making David frown. Her color was off. In fact she seemed a little pale.

He stepped forward. "I beg pardon? If I could be permitted a few minutes in the kitchen, I might have a solution." They both nodded. David gave a slight bow then went straight to the kitchen and asked the cooking staff, "Are there any peppermint leaves?"

The chef coughed and opened a cabinet, "Yes, right here. We use it for deserts." He pulled out a glass jar. "There you are."

David took it with a thank you and examined it thoughtfully. "Do you have a mortar and pestle?" The one of the sous-chef handed him one. "Thank you." He grabbed another kettle, filled it with water and placed it on the stove. He then opened the small jar and poured some of the leaves into the mortar. Taking the pestle in hand, he starts to ground the leaves. Hard and fast until they were mere shavings. As if triggered, the whistling sound alerted him that the water was boiling. He poured a few teaspoons of the leaves into the teapot before filling it with the boiling water. He places it on a new silver tea tray and brings it to the out to the dining hall.

He places it down on the table before bringing a cup and the tea to the Mistress. He places the cup in front of her and then pours the tea in. The steam from the hot beverage goes up and Mrs. Holloway breathes it with a contented sigh. "Peppermint tea has been known for years to help soothe nausea. I believe that this and some simple toast might be best for you. Then later, if you feel more comfortable, we can give you something more solid."

Mrs. Holloway took the teacup into her hands. She blew on it thoughtfully before bringing the liquid to her lips. After a nervous sip, she instantly relaxed then took larger sips. She pulled away and smiled at him. "It's perfect. Thank you, David."

He smiled, "My pleasure, Mrs. Holloway."

Mr. Holloway chuckled lightly. "Well, it seems clear that I was right in employing you, David. Well done!"

David bowed. "Thank you, Master Holloway." He backed away lightly and stood with the other servants. Elizabeth…Mrs. Holloway was able to eat her toast with more comfort as she drank the tea. Her color was even returning to normal.

Master Holloway took another bite of his meal before addressing his wife. "The physician will be here at noon to examine you, Elizabeth."

Mrs. Holloway frowned. "Charlie, is that really necessary?"

"Yes." Master Holloway replied with more stern. "You've been unable to keep food down for the past week. You need to see a physician. That's the end of discussion."

"But, dearest…" She started.

Master Holloway slammed his hand down on the table. "I said that that was the end of it!"

She flinched. "Yes, Charlie."

He nodded. "Good." He finished his plate and waved the servers over. "I'm finished," he said while wiping his mouth with a napkin. He stood up, "I have a meeting with a business partner, in half an hour. If I'm still with him while you are with the physician, I'll have David bring me the results of your possible diagnosis."

He left the room but some of the servants, including David, waited until Mrs. Holloway was finished with her toast before cleaning the rest of the dishes and departing themselves.

Right on schedule, the door bell rings, alerting everyone of the arrival of today's first guest. David made sure he was first to the door. He opens it to reveal a man his age with glasses red hair, and a sideburns. David gives one of his most welcoming smiles. "Mr. Lawrence, welcome to the Holloway Manor. My name is David."

Mr. Lawrence regarded him with mild interest. "Ah, so you're the new butler. How droll."

David kept the smile on his face still and held his arm out. "Mr. Holloway is waiting for you in his office please follow me this way." He led the man to where Mr. Holloway was waiting. He knocked on the door, "Master Holloway?"

"What is it?" He called out from the other side.

"Mr. Lawrence has arrived."

There was some shuffling and then, "Come in."

David opened the door and Master Holloway held out his arms in a warm welcome. "Ah, Mr. Lawrence!" He greet the man with an eager shake of their hands. "What a treat it is to see you again!"

"I believe the pleasure is mine, Mr. Holloway." Mr. Lawrence replied.

Master Holloway grinned. "Sit sit, please!" he gestured to one of the vacant chairs to which his guest politely accepted. "Would you care a drink, my friend? Brandy or scotch perhaps?"

"Do you have any whiskey?" His guest asked.

The master clapped his hands. "That we do! David?" He asked, getting his attention. "Please pour a glass of whiskey for our guest here. I'll take a brandy."

"Yes, Sir." David immediately went to the liquor cabinet and pulled out the two bottles as the men conversed.

"So how goes my factory in Manchester?" He asked.

David came forward and gave each of them their requested drink as Mr. Lawrence spoke. "Oh splendidly, Mr. Holloway. I truly believe that this could be the year that we discuss the possibility of another expansion."

Mr. Holloway grinned. "I'd hoped you were going to say that." He nodded as David handed him his drink. "That will be all for now, David. You're excused."

"Very good, Sir." He turned away and closed the door behind him.

David decided to make himself useful and familiarize himself in the wine cellar. He took off his jacket and rolled up his sleeves as he took in the stock of each individual brand. He actually lost track of time as he went through each of the extravagant bottles. Then the bell to the master bedroom rung. He went to his jacket, pulled out his pocket watch and saw that it was ten to noon. "The doctor is due soon. What could he master want now?" With a sigh, he pulled his jacket back on and headed towards the parlor.

He'd expected to see the Master sitting with his guest across from each other, but when he entered, he was met with the pleasant surprise. "Mrs. Holloway? You called for me?"

The Mistress looked up from her book at him with a gentle smile when he walked in. "Yes, David. Would you please bring me another cup peppermint tea?"

He frowned as he noted that her color was slightly off once again. "Are you alright, Ma'am?"

She coughed and laid a gentle hand on her stomach. "I assure, I'm fine. Especially after some more of your tea."

David smiled. "Of course, Mrs. Holloway. I'll bring some to you immediately."

Elizabeth nodded in appreciation as David left to bring her some more of the comforting hot beverage that had prepared for her that morning. Her stomach had been bothering her for a few days and was having a rather difficult time eating. But she still believed that there was no need for a doctor. She decided it was best to dismiss the thought and get back to her book. It was about the Pyramids of Ancient Egypt. She read that there are some still standing to this day, being uncovered after centuries of being buried in sand. Oh what wonders they must have!

She didn't know how much time had passed before David came back, but not with a tea cart. He was not alone. With him was the physician that they'd also been expecting. She tried not to grimace as the familiar older man came in with his leather bag. "Doctor Mathew." She greeted, hiding her disdain. "Thank you for coming."

The older man smiled. His white hair shining in the light. "It's always a pleasure, Mrs. Holloway." He put his bag down on a nearby chair and popped it open. "Now then, what seems to be the trouble?" He walked up to her and lifted up her right wrist, feeling for a pulse.

She sighed. The sooner we start, the sooner he leaves, She thought. "I've been having a difficult time eating as of late. This morning I was sick." She eyed David who stood patiently by the door. "And I was again just a few minutes ago."

"I see ." The doctor hummed. Then he turned to David, "Could you bring me my stethoscope from the bag, ummm…." he paused. "I beg pardon, but I didn't quite catch your name."

"It's quite alright, doctor. My name is David." He replied, handing him the stethoscope. "I'm the new head butler for the Holloway household."

The doctor appeared troubled. "Oh goodness! Well what happened to Andrew?"

Elizabeth looked down. "He passed away a few weeks ago of a stroke."

"My word, why didn't anyone send a message?" He asked.

She sighed. "He had stated in his will that he wanted a small private burial, with only his immediate family. Charlie was adamant on having his wish. He respected the man very much."

The doctor chuckled and put the stethoscope in his ears. "I suppose. Now," he put the tunable diaphragm against her back. "If you wouldn't mind to give us the room?" He said to David.

She nodded to him, "If you please, David."

He nodded. "Yes, Mrs. Holloway."

"I'll ring for you when we are done." She assured him.

He bowed once more and left the room. Leaving her and the doctor alone.

Doctor Mathew coughed once and said, " Now, Mrs. Holloway, take a deep breath in." She took a large one in. "Now out." She blew out. "Again" She repeated the actions a few more times. "Well it seems that your lungs are fine. Your pulse is a little faster than normal however." He'd taken out a mouth thermometer, shook a few times. "Now open," She did as he said without argument, letting the small tool go under tongue and hold it. She rolled her eyes as he took out his pocket watch. She waited for a few minutes before he pulled it out of her mouth. He glanced at it with uncertainty. He placed his hand against her forehead. "You're a little warm."

Elizabeth eyes widened. "Could it be the flew, Doctor?"

"I don't think so." He shook his head. "You said that you were sick a few minutes ago?"

She blushed. "Yes. I've been having difficulty with keeping anything down. Only bread seems to be able to sustain me. And peppermint tea."

"Well, Mrs. Holloway, it seems fairly obvious to me." He said.

She looked at him, confused. "What is it?"

"You're pregnant."

David was grinding more peppermint leaves in preparation for Mrs. Holloway. He'd already filled three jars and was working on preparing lunch for her when the bell rang once more. He glanced up when he noted that it was again from the master bedroom. Clearly the doctor had finished his examination. He glanced at his pocket watch, surprised at the time. He sighed and prepared everything on the cart. He'd prepared a sweat potato soup with crackers, and again with more peppermint tea on the side. Master Holloway and his guest received herbed pudding with bangers and mash. Again, he'd proven his worth so far.

He took the plates placed them gently on the cart, covering each dish. He then road the cart towards the bedroom where she and the doctor would be waiting. Once he was at the door, he rapped twice. "Mrs. Holloway? I've brought your lunch and more tea."

"Please come in, David." He heard her say quietly on the other side. He opened the door and pushed the cart in. The Doctor was putting his equipment away while Mrs. Holloway stood staring out the window.

"Where would you like me to place the cart, Mrs. Holloway?" He asked her.

She pointed without turning, "The table over there, please."

"Yes, ma'am." He followed her instruction and brought the cart to a small table that stood by a bookshelf. He unloaded each dish carefully as he listened in.

"I give you my congratulations, Mrs. Holloway." Doctor Mathew said. "Now that it's done, I shall take my leave."

David looked up. "Shall I escort you, Doctor?"

He waved his hand. "No need. I know my way around this house. Good to meet you, David."

"And you, Doctor."

The Doctor left without another word, closing the door behind him. David smiled as Mrs. Holloway as he poured her tea. "I take it that it's good news, Mrs. Holloway?" She mumbled quietly. "I'm sorry?"

"I'm pregnant." She whispered, her gaze still staring out the window.

He smiled gently. "Well this is good news! I'm happy for you!" She still wouldn't look at him. Her gaze never turned away from the window. "Mrs. Holloway?"

She coughed gently then turned to him. Her smile forced. "Please inform Mr. Holloway, David. I think it best for him to know sooner rather than later."

David was confused at her behavior, but he complied. "Right away, ma'am." He bowed once to her before departing again. What could make her react so unhappily? He thought with wonder. He'd seen his fair share of pregnant during his employment, most seem to be full of excitement. So what could bring Elizabeth to such worry over the news?

"Mrs. Holloway, David." He chided himself. "Not Elizabeth." He made his way to the dining hall and knocked on the door.

"Come in!" David walked in, seeing Mr. Holloway again at the head of the table with a plate full of food in front of him while his guest Mr. Lawrence did the same. "What is it David?" he asked.

He bowed. "I've come to give you the status of Mrs. Holloway's condition."

He stopped eating and gestured David to come forward. Signaling that he didn't want the guest to hear. He came over and whispered gently into Mr. Holloway's hear behind his glove. "Mrs. Holloway is pregnant."

Mr. Holloway froze. "You sure?"

"Yes, Master."

He wiped his face with his napkin and threw it down. "Come with me." Then he turned back to his guest. "Mr. Lawrence, I thank you very much for your visit today and I look forward to it again. Forgive me, but I must excuse myself. Have a good evening."

Mr. Lawrence waved. "To you as well."

Mr. Holloway and David left and both headed back to master bedroom. He didn't even knock when Mr. Holloway barged in to see Mrs. Holloway sipping a spoonful of soup. "Ellie, is it true?"

She sighed with regret and put the spoon down. "It is, Charlie."

"Close the door!" Mr. Holloway told David, who complied. He turned back to his wife. "How long?"

She shrugged. "The doctor said three weeks. Four at the most."

"Was he certain?" He asked.

"Yes, Charlie." She said, placing a hand on her stomach. "He always is."

He rubbed his chin then turned to the butler. "David?"

He stepped forward. "Master?"

Mr. Holloway stood next to him. "It is imperative that you know this, but I find it important that my wife refrain from any outdoor activities."

Mr.s Holloway's eyes widened and she stood up from her chair. "No, Charlie, you can't be serious!"

He turned to her. "I am very serious, Elizabeth!" He sighed. "We can't risk you overexerting yourself."

"But to lock me away in here?" She demanded.

He sighed. "You'll be free to move about the manor."

"This is madness!" She yelled.

He stepped forward and grabbed her arms, making David tense. "This is you third pregnancy and I won't have you injure the child!"

David's blood ran cold. Third? She was pregnant before?

She gaped at him as she tried to release his hold. "You make it seem as if I wanted to lose them!"

"You were too reckless!" He argued. "I can't have you taking anymore risks. You've already had two miscarriages and I will be damned if you have another one!"

This made David's heart sink. Two miscarriages? Was that why she appeared to be so afraid?

"Let me go!" She tried to pull away.

He shook her lightly. "Not until you listen to reason!"

"Mr. Holloway!" David grabbed his arm lightly. "You mustn't shake her, it could danger the child!"

He released her arms and backed away. "We will discuss this later. At dinner. Understood?"

Mrs. Holloway huffed but nodded gently. "Yes."

"Good." He turned on his heel. "David?"

"Master?"

Mr. Holloway looked over his shoulder. "I'm going to have you watch over Mrs. Holloway for the rest of the day." He said, catching David by surprise.

Mrs. Holloway's eyebrows went up. "You can't be serious."

"I am your husband, and since you are now carrying my child. You will do as I say." And with that he left, slamming the door behind him. Leaving David and Elizabeth alone.