Chapter 25
The usual morning routine was hectic enough but as Lord Marlborough was coming for dinner this evening, and staying at Downton overnight, things were even more frantic. The Dowager Countess was also joining the family for dinner and she and Mrs Crawley were also staying until morning. Therefore, there were more bedrooms to prepare and more rooms to clean before breakfast. Elsie glided down the corridors of Downton inspecting the maids whilst they worked, checking standards were of the highest level to prepare for this evening. Lord Marlborough had become a frequent visitor over the last few weeks, although had never stayed overnight until now, and Elsie had a sneaking suspicion that His Lordship was lining him up as a possible suitor for Lady Mary. 'That poor girl' Elsie thought; not usually one to have sympathy for Lady Mary but for her family to be trying to find her a partner so soon after the tragic death of her husband was unacceptable. The young woman should be allowed to grieve, Elsie thought. However, it seemed that this visit by Lord Marlborough, just a couple of days before Lady Mary headed to Scotland, was a last ditch effort to match make. Elsie had been up and about since 4.00am, with so much to do over the next week; there was the visit this evening, a special family dinner in a couple of days' time to say goodbye to Lady Mary, a garden party that Her Ladyship was organising to raise funds for good causes and, of course, the little matter of her own wedding to organise (although Elsie was determined, despite the wishes of Beryl, Anna and Daisy, that her wedding would be a very small affair).
As Elsie rounded the corner of the upstairs corridor, she ran full force into her future husband. Charles reached out to take hold of Elsie, to prevent her from toppling over.
"Mrs Hughes, you are in a hurry today," Charles quipped.
"Well, Mr Carson, there is much to do and certainly no time to dally," she replied with a weary smile. Charles could see she was exhausted. She had been up since the crack of dawn. Despite standing in the middle of the corridor, where anyone could see them, Charles pulled her close.
"You need to slow down Elsie, you are overdoing things. I worry about you," Charles said, whilst holding her to him.
"I am fine. We are all busy. Once this next week is over, it will be fine," Elsie replied, enjoying the warmth of Charles' strong, sturdy body next to hers. She let out a long sigh, closed her eyes for a second, and allowed herself to enjoy a few moments of peace, resting against Charles' chest. He barely moved but simply held her securely and safely to his body. He could feel her body sag against his, the tension easing a little.
"Mrs Hughes! Mrs Hughes! Oh there you are …." Anna called as she dashed down the corridor, stopping hastily when she realised Mrs Hughes was not alone, and in fact was in the arms of Mr Carson. Charles and Elsie sprang apart, uncomfortable with being caught sharing this intimate moment.
"Oh I am sorry," Anna said.
"Not at all Anna. Now, how can I help you?" Mrs Hughes asked.
"Lady Mary said to tell you that Lord Marlborough is now bringing a guest, his uncle I think, Lord something or other, so we'll need another room prepared," Anna said tiredly.
Elsie sighed and rolled her eyes, "No rest for the wicked," she said, giving an exasperated smile. Charles looked at her, concern written all over his face. She reached for one of his hands and held it lightly, attempting to reassure him that all was well.
"I'll be fine Mr Carson," she assured him, aware that Anna was still beside them.
"Right, let's go Anna," Elsie said, as both women strode down the corridor together.
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The chaos of the morning was finally over and Elsie was enjoying the view from the Blue Room, the final guest room they had prepared for this evening. The guests would be arriving in an hour or two but Elsie took the opportunity for a little breather, gazing out of the window across the stunning grounds of Downton. The view from this room was magnificent and she could see all the way down to the lake. The sun was shining brightly; how she would love to walk down to that lake with Charles and soak up the last of the afternoon sunshine. Her reverie was broken, when she felt a solid pair of arms wrap around her, warm lips nuzzling at her neck.
"Is that you Mr Molesley?" Elsie teased.
"Mr Molesley!" Charles shrieked, as Elsie laughed, leaning back into his embrace.
"Oh, it's you Charles. Easy mistake to make!" she continued to jest.
They both giggled as Charles continued to graze her neck with kisses, his arms tightening around her waist. They both faced the window but neither was enjoying the view outside. Charles was entirely focused on Elsie, whilst she closed her eyes and enjoyed being embraced by him.
"How are you feeling, my love?" Charles asked with fondness, between kisses.
"Much better now," Elsie stated, still leaning with her back against Charles' chest and raising one of arms behind her, to grip the back of his head even more firmly to her neck. She murmured with pleasure as he continued to spoil her with affection. Charles raised one of his hands slowly; and lightly stroked the underside of one of her breasts with just his thumb, whilst still gently nipping and kissing her neck.
"That feels wonderful Charles," Elsie whispered breathlessly. She could feel a flush rising up her body. She grasped the hand that was still holding her tightly across her waist and entwined her fingers in his, gripping tighter as she became more flustered.
Charles, with the hand that was at her breast, began to undo a few of the tiny buttons at the top of Elsie's dress. The quiet murmurs she was making were almost his downfall, as he felt himself straining inside his trousers. He wanted to remain a gentleman, he wanted to respect Elsie's honour until they were married, but after twenty years of longing, it was becoming increasingly difficult. He felt Elsie pressing her bottom into him. He knew she would be able to feel his growing need for her.
"My, My, Mr Carson. I am a very lucky lady indeed," Elsie said, as she continued to push her bottom up against him. She knew he had said he wanted to wait, but she wanted him so much.
Charles slipped his hand inside her dress, pushing her corset down a little and gently caressing the top of her breasts. They feel so soft, Charles thought. She gripped his other hand tighter. He was now groaning against her ear.
"We could Charles, right here, we could", she panted gently. She could not believe the effect he had on her.
"Ummmm … God Elsie … I want to ….. I want to so much … you must know that …. Ummmm …. You are so beautiful …." His words trailed off as he resumed his sucking and biting at her neck, fondling her breasts more roughly.
"Then why wait Charles? We are to be married, I love you so much and I want you … I want you now," Elsie turned in his arms and started kissing his mouth with fervour, flicking her tongue over his lips, wrapping her arms around his neck and pressing herself hard up against him. She could feel that he wanted this. She began to push him backwards towards the bed. Charles was groaning loudly now as his head moved downwards, his mouth kissing her throat, down to her breasts. She raised one leg, sliding it up his thigh. Charles grasped her leg, holding it against his side, and letting his hand slide up to massage her behind.
"Carson? Carson are you up here?" Lady Mary's voice sounded along the corridor.
"Oh good god. Not now," Elsie panted.
"Carson! ….. perhaps he is in the Blue Room?" They heard Lady Mary say to someone, as they both panicked, pulling apart, trying hastily to rectify their ruffled appearance.
"She can't see us like this Elsie!" Charles was nearing hysteria. He knew it would take him longer than a few seconds to calm down. Elsie looked at him, whilst still hurriedly re-fastening her buttons, smoothing down her dress, trying to push loose strands of hair back into some sort of order. She could see his dilemma.
"I'll go. I'll sort this. You just stay here," Elsie took control as usual and headed for the door. She paused briefly, looking over her shoulder to give Charles a warm smile. Despite the unnerving situation they both found themselves in, Charles returned her smile and let out a short laugh. The effect this woman had on him, his life was never going to be dull again, he thought happily. He watched in admiration as Elsie left the room and with total confidence, heard her address Lady Mary and Lady Edith,
"Good afternoon Lady Mary, Lady Edith. Did I hear that you were looking for Mr Carson?" Elsie asked.
"Yes Mrs Hughes. We need to confirm the wine choices for this evening's dinner, Lord Marlborough is rather picky when it comes to his wine," Lady Mary said, rolling her eyes. It was obvious she and the Lord were never going to make a match.
"Oh I see. Well I am afraid you have just missed him, Mr Carson had to go into the village to speak to some of our suppliers," Elsie said with assurance.
"Oh, never mind. I'll speak to him when he gets back," Lady Mary said, as she walked back down the corridor. She had no idea what she had almost stumbled upon. However, Lady Edith was much more observant, noticing the flushed appearance of Mrs Hughes, and the one or two buttons that remained open at the top of her dress. She also turned and started to walk down the corridor but as she did so, and without looking behind her, said light-heartedly,
"You can come out now Mr Carson!"
Elsie's eyes widened in surprise and behind the closed door, Charles looked stunned.
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The downstairs staff were lined up in formation awaiting the arrival of Lord Marlborough. The family too, were waiting to greet His Lordship on arrival. Elsie and Charles stood side by side as usual. The car pulled into the drive and Lord Marlborough stepped out, to be greeted by the family. He was followed by his uncle, a man probably in his sixties, who Elsie heard being introduced to the family as Lord Gilfellon. That name is familiar, she thought, but she couldn't think why. A valet and footman, who had travelled with their visitors, were shepherded over to stand by Mr Carson. Once the introductions and greetings with the family were complete, Lord Grantham, as was customary, introduced his butler and housekeeper.
"Lord Marlborough, Lord Gilfellon, may I introduce Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes, our irreplaceable Butler and Housekeeper. If you need anything at all, please do not hesitate to …." Lord Grantham began but was interrupted by Lord Gilfellon,
"Elsie? Elsie Hughes! Is that really you?" The older man exclaimed, as he approached Elsie with a surprised but thrilled expression on his face. The other staff, and the entire family, turned to stare as he walked towards the Housekeeper.
"James? Oh my goodness James … I mean Lord Gilfellon … I do beg your pardon," Elsie replied, absolutely astounded.
Charles gaped open-mouthed at the scene unfolding before him, and particularly at Lord Gilfellon, whom he noticed could barely take his eyes from Elsie Hughes.