Sunset
As the sunset settles across the horizon, painting the sky with glorious brushstrokes of cerulean, heliotrope, coral, and amber, they stand here with the others, watching. Almost numb with disbelief that this is happening again in their lifetime. She prayed then that they would never play witness again to this heartbreak. They have all been told that the world is supposed to be a more civilized place, a place of progress, a time when tragedy of this nature should be a thing of the past.
She looks out over platform, sees the scurrying of men into carriages, sees baggage being loaded, and women wiping their tears from their eyes. She hears the piercing cries of little babes, their mothers holding them close. Her head shakes slightly in disbelief, that this is all a horrible dream a nightmare. She feels his hand on her waist, gentle pressure pulling her toward him. He has found the family; they are just this way, he tells her. She knows that he is anxious, but he will not falter, will not give himself away because Lady Mary needs him to be strong, needs him to be her support as he always has been. And she needs him, especially now.
The young man in the olive uniform turns; he looks so much like his father, Elsie thinks. All blond hair and blue eyes, but she knows that he is his mother as well. Strong and cool, intelligent. Young George Crawley extends his hand to Charles, shakes it firmly. Charles wishes him well. Tells him things that his grandfather might, if he were here to do so. George bends, draws Elsie into an embrace, and kisses her cheek. His father's son, she thinks fondly. Kind, thoughtful, sincere. She tells him to take care of himself, to try to stay from harm's way. To write to his mother, to them if he has the time.
The station attendant calls for the passengers to board and the Carsons step back, allow the family to say their goodbyes. Charles keeps a steady eye on Lady Mary in case she should need him. Elsie tucks her hand inside her husband's elbow, keeps her eyes on him, in case he needs her.
The train filled with men pulls away into the distance.
The beautiful sunset over Downton belies the storm clouds that are gathering over Europe.
Thank you for reading. I want to thank you all for your warm reception to these prompts. I've had a whale of a time stretching my legs as it were. If you are inclined, reviews are always appreciated.