The Origin of Daisy

by DeutchRemy

There are so many unanswered questions about Daisy. Where did she come from? How old was she when she came to Downton? Does she have parents? Well, this is her story.

13. Chapter 13

May, 1912

"Did you enjoy the war?" Miss O'Brien mocked in a high-pitched sing-song voice before she and Thomas burst into laughter. Anna glared at them from across the table but continued with her knitting as though nothing was amiss. "I tell you, Thomas, that girl is as thick as a…oh, good evening, Mr. Bates. We didn't hear you come in."

"Good evening, Miss O'Brien. I thought I might have a cup of coffee before retiring for the night." He eased himself into a chair in the servants' hall and as though she had anticipated his desire for coffee, Daisy scurried in and poured him a cup and laid out some cream and sugar on the table. "Thank you, Daisy." She gave him a sweet smile and asked Anna if she wanted anything to eat or drink before scurrying out again.

"Mr. Bates, let me be the first to apologize for Daisy's insensitive question about your war experiences earlier." Miss O'Brien was putting on quite the act, looking and sounding genuinely concerned when in reality she was only interested in making Daisy look foolish. "I can tell you from experience what a sillyhead that girl is. Always burning sauces or almost poisoning food. Asking uncomfortable questions."

Anna rolled her eyes.

Miss O'Brien continued, "But I suppose she can't help it. What with being dropped on her head when she was born."

Throughout her speech, Bates had been calmly sweetening his coffee to his taste, and when finished he took a sip, placed the cup on its saucer, and looked O'Brien straight in the eyes.

"Tell me, Miss O'Brien, is this a pastime of yours, inventing stories to make helpless girls look bad? I know you dislike me, as well as a handful of the staff and possibly even Her Ladyship herself, but a teenage girl who can't defend herself? That's low, even for you. Now if you'll excuse me," he picked up his cup and saucer and stood up from the table, "I'm going to finish my coffee, which Daisy so wonderfully prepared, I might add, in a more friendly environment." With that he walked out of the room.

Anna gathered her knitting supplies and followed suit.