A/N: Hi everyone. Sorry for the delay with this chapter. It has been extremely challenging, by far the most difficult I have ever written. For anything. Ever. The planning alone took me an absolute age, and I feel as though I need several of Mr Butler's wonderful cocktails! I've divided it into two parts (both of which I have uploaded) as I needed to tie up some loose ends first, and I didn't want that to impact upon the arrival of Jack's family, which is obviously an incredibly important chapter. His family are introduced at the end of the first part of this chapter, and the second part will focus on the weekend they spend with Jack and Phryne. These instalments are quite lengthy, but I hope they're manageable. As always, if you have any advice/comments/constructive criticism I would be very grateful to hear it, I take absolutely everything you say on board and am very grateful for any and all input.
In terms of the wedding, I know I have made allusions and references to it in the dialogue between Phryne and Jack and the narrative itself, but have not revealed their plans specifically. I have purposely omitted significant details regarding the wedding plans because I want the chapter to be enjoyable and new, as opposed to simply giving a more detailed account of facts already revealed in previous chapters. But Phryne and Jack are planning it, and I am very much looking forward to writing it. I hope you'll enjoy reading it too. The wedding will be in approximately 4 chapters' time.
SJM: I had intended for Lord Farnsdale to only be mentioned in that single chapter, but if you'd like to meet him I can always invite him to the wedding reception Aunt P is throwing .
Thank you for your patience and for reading. I hope you enjoy the latest instalment.
Love,
HQ21
Phryne and Jack enjoyed a brief walk across the St Kilda foreshore, in which Phryne attempted to distract Jack from her pale complexion and weariness by asking many questions about the case which her nausea had so uncharitably prevented her from assisting him with further. After having previously confirmed that her initial theory about the identity of the killer was correct, he explained that the victim was having an affair with the killer's wife, prompting him to attack him outside the public house where his body was discovered. The charred remains of his clothes were found, the broken bottle was concealed beneath old newspaper in a trash can nearby, and the man was in the process of threatening his wife and yelling obscenities at her when the Police arrived to arrest him.
By the time they arrived home Jack was relieved to find that Phryne seemed to have recovered noticeably; her skin had been shockingly white when he arrived, and had now adopted a healthier glow. Her eyes were bright, her voice confident and her manner animated. The tiredness which had afflicted her seemed to have been driven from her body by her interest in the case, and if he had not seen how worrying she looked when he arrived back from the station he would have almost believed that she was well. However, armed with his knowledge of how fragile she appeared when he did return, and knowing her reluctance to acknowledge let alone discuss feeling anything less than perfectly healthy, he led her through the back of the house and into the garden, suggesting they sit down and take in some of the air.
"Wasn't that what we were just doing?" Phryne asked curiously, smiling gently as she sat down. Phryne looked at Jack's face for a moment and instantly saw the concerned eyes which shone through the unreadable mask he wore. She sighed gently and nodded. "Very well, Jack" she added, just as a noise from the back door distracted her from her previous line of thought.
Phryne turned and watched as her astute companion, Dot, walked across the garden with a silver salver which held a large jug of water with ice and lemon, and a small plate of warm biscuits which smelled divine. Phryne's mouth watered slightly as the tray was laid down upon the table. Dot, who caught her gazed, smiled gently as she poured her a glass of water with ice and lemon.
"They're ginger biscuits, Miss, fresh out of the oven" she stated, placing the water before her and pouring a glass for the inspector. "My sister ate them when she was expecting. She said they help with the nausea" she explained gently. Phryne looked up at Dot with warm eyes.
"Thank you, Dot" she said, offering her a small smile before turning her attention back towards the biscuits. "That was very kind" she added.
"That's alright, Miss" she said sweetly. "I'll be in the kitchen if you need me. Mr Butler says dinner will be ready shortly" she stated, placing Jack's water and the jug on the table and walking across the garden and back towards the house.
Jack found himself feeling reassured once more in the knowledge that Dot was now aware of Phryne's pregnancy. Dot was an intelligent and caring young woman who would do everything she could to help Phryne through the pregnancy, which he knew would be difficult for her. But the fact that Phryne felt ready to tell Dot about the baby was a very good sign; it must have been a great comfort and relief for her to reveal the secret to her, someone she trusted implicitly and cared for beyond measure. Despite her stubbornness, Phryne did listen to Dot, and Jack did not doubt that if Dot suggested or advised Dot in relation to the pregnancy, she would listen to the advice. She'd consider it, at least. As Jack thought about this he watched as Phryne took several sips of her water and glanced longingly at the biscuits. He knew her appetite had suffered over the past couple of days, and based on how pale she looked when he returned home he doubted that she had eaten very much at all that day. She must be hungry, and as much as he wanted to watch her consume the entire plate of biscuits as well as dinner, he knew that her nausea and her nerves may not allow it.
"Phryne?" he asked gently, prompting her to look up towards him expectantly. "Do you feel able to eat something?" he asked gently, not wanting her to feel that he was issuing a command or passing judgement. She inhaled deeply.
"I want to, Jack, really" she replied, her voice tired and slightly resigned. "But your child seems determined to either starve me to death or have me vomiting ad nauseum" she continued gently, smirking slightly at the final words; Phryne appreciated puns. Jack considered her words and observed that she referred to the baby as his child, as opposed to theirs. But she did not do so in a cold or dismissive way; she was attempting to make light of something which was concerning her, which she often did, particularly when she was afraid of appearing vulnerable. Jack nodded slowly.
"I'm sorry" he said gently. "I know these past couple of days have been especially difficult for you" he continued, remembering how sick she had been in the morgue the day before, how weak she had felt in his arms.
"I'm fine" she replied gently, inhaling sharply and reaching for a biscuit. "And I'm famished" she added, as she drew the biscuit to her lips.
Phryne had not realised just how hungry she had been until Dot brought out those delightfully-scented biscuits. Over the past couple of days especially her stomach had revolted at even the idea of food, but she had been pleasantly surprised about her ability to keep down a sandwich for an entire hour, and so perhaps there was hope yet. She took a tentative bite of the biscuit and found the taste exquisite, the texture divine and the temperature immeasurably comforting. Jack watched with relief as she ate several biscuits as they continued to discuss the case, which Phryne had expertly raised once more in an attempt to deflect from the previous conversation. Phryne could feel herself becoming more energised and alert with each biscuit, and as she looked at surprise at the depleted stock before her, she pushed the plate gently towards Jack to offer him one before her voracious appetite prevented future opportunity; he smiled at her warmly and shook his head as he continued his narrative, which Phryne listened to attentively. She'd never been very fond of ginger, but these biscuits were simply wonderful, and she was already feeling slightly less nauseous. She made a mental note to ask Dot to bake some more when she had a chance.
Shortly afterwards Mr Butler entered the garden and announced that dinner was ready, which Phryne thanked him for and headed inside with Jack, the notion of facing an actual meal causing her to feel slightly anxious. However, it soon became apparent that Dot had either suggested the menu or informed Mr Butler that Phryne was not feeling very well, as dinner was light and rustic and incredibly soothing. Phryne managed most of her vegetable soup and a reasonable amount of chicken in a light sauce with vegetables, though she did politely decline the offer of dessert which, to her surprise, so did Jack.
"But Jack, you adore Mr Butler's trifle" she said with confusion. Jack looked up at her with his honest policeman's eyes.
"I'm not hungry" he replied gently. Phryne removed her napkin from her lap and rose from her seat.
"You're always hungry" she challenged. Jack looked up at her innocently and rose.
"Not always, Miss Fisher" he replied gently. Phryne considered him for a moment and lowered her eyes.
"I don't want you not to have dessert on my account" she said kindly. "Jack, I don't want you to change a thing." Jack smiled at her warmly and walked around the table until he was stood before her. She felt his hands upon her waist, a habit he had been enacting more recently and which she absolutely adored.
"It's just dessert" he said gently, as she rose her eyes to meet his. "Please don't worry, Phryne" he said kindly, feeling the tension leave her body beneath his hands.
"I'm not worrying" she replied gently, opening her eyes and tilting her head back so their gaze met. "We both know nothing can keep you away from Mr B's dessert for very long" she said teasingly, earning her a small smile from Jack. Phryne slowly removed herself from his grasp and led him towards the parlour. "I expect I'll find you sitting by the refrigerating machine later armed with the trifle and a large spoon." Jack laughed as she led him into the parlour.
Phryne and Jack spent the next couple of hours in the parlour, listening to music and discussing the plan for the weekend, which Phryne assured Jack she was feeling more than able to proceed with. He only asked her once, knowing her answer would not alter and that asking her again might upset or even annoy her, and so he resolved to do everything he could to support her whilst she was feeling unwell. He felt notably more confident in his ability to do so now that Dot was also aware of the pregnancy, as she was always at the house during the day and would be able to ensure Phryne was alright when they were not together. He felt quite certain that she would also prepare a considerable supply of the biscuits she had made for Phryne, which Miss Fisher had finished after dinner. Shortly after Dot came into the parlour to say goodbye to Phryne, the topic of conversation shifted to the following day, when Jack and Phryne had an important task to complete.
"Are you still happy for us to arrange the marriage license tomorrow?" Jack asked gently. Phryne looked up at him with bright eyes.
"Of course" she smiled. "If you come over at around three we can drive there together and collect it, before coming back home and finalising the other necessary arrangements" Jack nodded and smiled gently, as he suddenly realised that they had both already begun to refer to Phryne's house in St Kilda as 'home'. Jack nodded in agreement and poured Phryne another glass of water, causing her to eye him suspiciously. She knew that he was taking care of her, and she appreciated it greatly, but at the same time she felt worried and slightly unsettled at the concept of being 'looked after'.
"If I were a sceptical woman, Jack, I'd be concerned that you were dosing me" she teased, as she drew the glass closer to her and held it in her hands.
"Only a very foolish man would attempt such a thing, Miss Fisher" he said, raising his eyebrows as if to challenge her. Phryne smiled.
"Well, you did agree to marry me" she purred, raising the glass to her lips and smiling as she sipped.
Phryne slept late on Thursday morning, rising at half-past ten and feeling considerably better than she did the day before. As she rose from her bed and headed towards the bathroom she felt customarily dizzy and slightly nauseous, but she had energy and her mind was clear. She smiled with relief as she sat on the edge of the bath and turned on the tap, pouring chestnut blossom scent into the tub and running her fingers through the water.
Ten minutes later Phryne was lying back in the bath and enjoying the hot water and comforting aroma of her scented bath when there was a gentle knock at the door which she recognised instantly.
"Come in, Dot" she called, her eyes remaining firmly closed, her dizziness mercifully abating. For now, at least.
Phryne ran her hand through the water and turned to face the door just as Dot walked in.
"Good morning, Miss" Dot greeted warmly. She'd heard the sound of running water which alerted her to the fact that Miss Phryne had awoken. "Did you sleep well?" she asked, attempting to ascertain her wellbeing without directly asking her, as she knew she had a tendency to be evasive over such matters. Phryne smiled gently.
"Too well, apparently" she replied warmly, watching Dot as she spoke. "I'm feeling much better" she added gently. Dot nodded and smiled slightly. "Thank you" she added sincerely. Dot blinked and simply nodded before approaching the second of the tricky subjects to raise with her employer.
"Do you feel up to breakfast, Miss?" Dot asked tentatively. To her relief, Miss Phryne appeared to be considering the question.
Phryne felt slightly nauseous but was incredibly hungry, and knew that eating would be advisable, especially when she felt able to do so. She found the memories of how unwell she felt the previous couple of days to be quite frightening, and she wanted to do everything she could to prevent herself from feeling so wretched again, especially this weekend. But more than anything, the baby needed her to eat. So she would.
"Could I have some toast please, Dot?" she asked gently. "And some lemon squash, if I haven't depleted the entire supply" she added, considering once more her newfound fondness for the cordial. The bitter taste was most refreshing.
"Of course, Miss" Dot replied, barely containing her relief. "Would you like breakfast now or-?"
"Yes please, Dot" Phryne replied gently. "I was about to get out anyway. I've got a busy day ahead and I'm absolutely famished" she said, placing her hands on the edge of the bath and rising to her feet. Dot handed her a towel and watched as she wrapped it around herself and stepped out of the tub.
"Busy, Miss?" Dot asked, confusion and a slight hint of nervousness present in her tone. "I thought that as Miss Jane and the inspector's family are arriving tomorrow for the weekend that you might like to have a nice, quiet-" Dot's words were silenced by a kind smile and tender expression from Phryne, who secured her towel tightly and walked towards her.
"A thoughtful notion, dear Dot, but impossible I'm afraid" she said gently. "I have some errands to run in town today; just a few final things to pick up for the weekend" she explained. "Jack and I are also going to collect our marriage license today" she added. Dot beamed.
"That's wonderful, Miss" she smiled. Phryne smiled back, feeling both anxious and exhilarated.
"Yes, it is" she agreed. "If you'd care to accompany me we could always have lunch in that little café you like in Collins Street?" Phryne offered. Dot smiled.
"I'd like that, Miss" she replied warmly. "I'll go and get your breakfast" she added, turning and walking out of the room and heading straight for the kitchen, lest Miss Phryne should change her mind about her hunger.
Phryne put on a robe and sat down at her dressing table, brushing her hair and applying her make-up and perfume, before walking over to her wardrobe and selecting a dove-grey skirt and white blouse with matching Mary Janes. She lay the garments on the end of her bed just as Dot reentered with her breakfast tray. Phryne smiled and got onto her bed, sitting cross-legged on her side as her companion handed her the tray, which she noticed also contained a plate of freshly baked ginger biscuits.
"Thank you, Dot" she said, before lightly buttering her toast and taking a few tentative bites. After the third bite she felt satisfied that her stomach appeared to be permitting sustenance this morning (much to her relief), and so she slowly ate both pieces of toast and three biscuits, as well as an entire glass of lemon squash. Dot could barely conceal her relief.
"You're looking much better today, Miss" she commented as she relieved Miss Phryne of the tray.
"Thank you" Phryne responded, as she turned over the newspaper and flicked through it, scanning it quickly and reading an article on British politics which interested her, before skimming the other headlines and putting the paper aside for later. As she did so she caught sight of the time and her eyes widened. "It's almost eleven" she stated. "Jack and I are heading into town at three, so we should leave presently" she added, uncrossing her legs and getting out of bed.
The familiar sensation of dizziness which occurred when she stood up too quickly returned to her, causing her to chastise herself internally, before blinking herself out of her faintness and heading towards her clothes. Dot selected some undergarments for her and assisted Phryne to dress, handing her the silk chemise after she had put on her underwear and stockings. As Phryne held the garment in her hands she noticed Dot's eyes drift briefly to her abdomen, where they remained for just a few moments before her attention travelled to the dove-grey skirt on the bed. Whilst her back was turned Phryne glanced down at her flat stomach, stared at it inquisitively, and felt a slight wave of panic. She hadn't changed, had she? She looked just as she always did. Surely it couldn't be obvious already? she thought, as she found herself feeling uncharacteristically nervous and self-conscious. She swallowed hard and pulled on the chemise, donning it before Dot turned back to face her.
Dot looked up at Phryne, smiled, and assisted her with the skirt and blouse. She noticed that her employer had been quieter than usual during the process, and her features bore signs of worry. She looked up at her with a tender expression and waited until their eyes met.
"Is everything alright, Miss?" she asked gently. Phryne considered the question for a moment before responding.
"Yes, Dot, of course" she replied brightly. "I'll just put on some jewellery and meet you downstairs. We'll leave straight away, if that's alright?"
"Of course, Miss" Dot replied, smiling gently before leaving the room.
As the door closed firmly behind Dot, Phryne closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, before opening her eyes quickly and reaching for her silver and diamond bracelet and a pair of matching earrings. She secured the earrings first and then the bracelet, which she clasped tightly around her dainty wrist. As she did so her eyes drifted to her stomach which, from previous inspection, she knew was flat and toned and normal, and absolutely the same as it always had been.
Except it wasn't.
Phryne allowed her hand to drift towards her abdomen, where it hovered for a couple of moments, until her anxiety rose and she faltered, lowering her hand and inhaling sharply before turning on the spot and walking out of the room.
Phryne and Dot spent a very enjoyable afternoon in the city, where they bought some puzzles, games, toys, a football, pencils and paper and buckets and spades. In anticipation of the weekend, Phryne decided to stock up on supplies for the children who would be staying with her, wishing to ensure that they had suitable amusements. She knew that coming to a new place must be quite daunting, particularly when you're young, and most definitely when it involves meeting and staying with a complete stranger. She also knew that Jack's family were travelling down by train, and so probably wouldn't be able to bring as much as they cared to in terms of toys and games. She chose many of the items herself, but did rely heavily on Dot's judgement, as she had young nieces and Phryne felt that she knew very little about children. But as she and Dot headed back to the car after their shopping trip and lunch, she found herself feeling moderately more prepared, which reassured her slightly.
The rest of the afternoon was spent, as Dot had hoped it would, quietly and in the garden, where even Miss Phryne would struggle to find any trouble. She hoped. Indeed, she and Phryne sat and talked companionably for over an hour, drinking lemon squash and nibbling ginger biscuits as the sun shone down upon them in the beautiful garden, which smelled of hibiscus and roses. Phryne was fairly relaxed in her quiet little garden with her cherished companion, until their conversation drifted into unfamiliar territory, and some of her most significant fears returned.
"The children will love what you bought them, Miss, they'll be spoiled for choice" Dot declared, as she continued with her embroidery. Phryne's eyes drifted up to her companion's and she inhaled sharply.
"I hope so, Dot" she replied gently. "I'm very glad you were with me, otherwise I wouldn't have had a clue what I was doing" she continued. Dot, noticing a slight change in her employer's tone, put down her embroidery and listened attentively. "I really don't know very much about children" she admitted. Dot looked at her kindly.
"You know more than you realise, Miss" she stated with conviction. Phryne looked at her doubtfully. "And the rest of it you learn. Everyone learns, no one knows everything at first" she explained. "And you have the inspector, and me, and Mr Butler" she continued. "We'll work it out, Miss" she assured her. Phryne watched Dot for a moment and swallowed.
"I'm not like everyone else, Dot" she replied, her voice low and hesitant. "The more I think about it the less I know what I'm doing" she admitted, clenching her jaw tightly as she found herself beginning to feel emotional. She exhaled slowly and looked back up at her companion. "I wouldn't be like other mothers."
"Miss Phryne" Dot replied, edging her chair slightly closer to hers and looking into her eyes with a confident expression. "Do you remember what you told me when I told you that Hugh had proposed?" she asked gently. Phryne considered the questioned for a moment and nodded. "I told you about Hugh's views on married women, and how they weren't the same as my own, but that they were how things were for married women" she continued, her eyes sparkling at the memory of Miss Phryne's response. "And you said that that didn't mean that was how they had to stay" she stated, looking up at Phryne with such warmth that she almost smiled in response. Almost, but not quite.
"Yes, Dot" Phryne replied. "I remember that."
"So do I, Miss" Dot responded. "I remembered it every time Hugh and I argued, every time I doubted myself, and every time someone told me or made me feel that what I wanted wasn't right" she explained. "And I remembered it because you were absolutely right, Miss. You always are" she added warmly. "And the advice you gave to me then applies to you now" she said kindly. She watched as Phryne inhaled deeply. "Just because you aren't conventional, Miss, doesn't mean that you won't be a wonderful mother" she said gently. "I know you will." Phryne shook her head.
"You can't know that" she responded, her voice slightly choked. She inhaled deeply. "No one can predict what they'll be like as a parent."
"But they know what they're like as a person, and that will tell you the same thing" Dot stated with conviction. "You're loving and kind and brave and selfless; that's the kind of person you are so that's the kind of mother you'll be" she stated, speaking slowly and with emphasis on certain words. "What would make you think otherwise?" she asked tentatively.
Phryne swallowed hard and looked up at Dot with bright eyes. All of the reasons she could think of, every single one that had been tormenting her and worrying her since she discovered that she was pregnant, swam to the forefront of her mind and demanded her immediate attention. She couldn't unload all of her concerns on Dot, it wouldn't be fair. And the prospect of bearing her soul absolutely terrified her. So instead, the reason that was the most prominent in her mind, the words which were dancing upon her lips, were what she told Dot in response to her question.
"What if I'm like my father?" she asked, the searing words burning her lips as she spoke them. Dot blinked, apparently having not been expecting that question, as Phryne's mind swam with associated thoughts.
"You won't be" Dot said with certainty. "Miss Phryne-"
"I drink, I take risks, I'm selfish, and vain and indulgent" Phryne interjected, the eyes which met her companion's now swimming with tears. "I hated my father growing up, Dot. Really, really hated him. His behaviour and his actions affected me profoundly, in ways I don't like to think about" she admitted, the words coming from her with great difficulty. "He was cruel and nasty and drunk and I-" she clenched her jaw and shook her head. "I don't want to be like him" she said, her assured tone trembling slightly. "I don't want to harm the baby" she stated, as the tears which brimmed in her eyes began to fall freely down her cheeks and the terrifying prospect. "I don't want it to hate me".
"Miss Phryne" Dot soothed, leaning forward and wrapping her arms around her and drawing her close.
Phryne closed her eyes and leaned into Dot, allowing her to embrace her as she felt the weight of her admission leave her briefly, granting her a reprieve for only a moment before the fears she had came flooding back to her. She closed her eyes tightly and tentatively returned Dot's embrace, feeling the familiar and confident presence of her companion to be incredibly reassuring. Even her scent made her feel better; Attar of Roses mixed with polish and fresh flour. Phryne allowed herself a few more moments of weakness before swallowing the lump in her throat, inhaling deeply and slowly removing herself from the warm embrace.
"Sorry" she breathed, wiping her eyes and attempting to regain her composure. Dot watched her attentively and held her hand.
"Don't be" she replied kindly, in a tone which almost reduced Phryne to tears one more. "Everyone has doubts, Miss, really" she assured her. "You are nothing like your father" she stated with conviction. Phryne looked at her, desperately wanting to believe her. "The fact that you're so worried about being like him is one of the things that means you never will. And it's clear because of how worried you are about becoming the kind of parent you don't want the baby to have that you love it, very much" she said gently, offering her a small smile. "You aren't cruel, Miss Phryne, and you aren't nasty. I don't think you're capable of being either, certainly not to someone who is innocent, and definitely not to a child" she continued. "Your child" she corrected, watching as her employer's lip trembled and she had to look away. "And you may indulge in alcohol but you aren't an alcoholic. There is a difference" she explained. Phryne nodded.
"I know" Phryne replied quietly.
"You're nothing like him" Dot repeated. Phryne inhaled deeply and nodded.
"Thank you" she replied, speaking slowly and quietly, and offering her companion a small smile. Dot felt Miss Phryne squeeze her hand tightly. "Thank you, Dot" she added. Dot nodded and smiled.
"I mean it, Miss" she stated confidently. Phryne smiled and looked at her affectionately.
"Yes, I know you do" she replied gently. Dot looked at Miss Phryne for a few moments, and was unsure of whether she believed what she had told her, or just that she believed it.
"This baby is so lucky to have you, Miss Phryne" she said gently. Her words caused Phryne's smile to falter and her eyes to drift to the ground. Dot's heart broke. "Miss-"
Before Dot could utter another word their attention was attracted to the sound of chatter near the kitchen. Phryne turned towards it and watched as Jack walked out of the kitchen and into the garden. She forced her fears aside, inhaled sharply and immediately rose from her seat.
"Jack" she said brightly, smiling as he approached her. "You're back early" she added. "It's only just after two" she stated with confusion. Jack approached her and cast a glance over her face, which was pale but tear-free, and nodded.
"I have to go back shortly to orchestrate a raid on one of the more depraved establishments in Little Lonsdale Street tonight" he sighed. "The Commissioner's breathing down my neck and threatening to come to the station, so I came back early to make sure we'd have time to get the marriage license" he explained gently. Phryne nodded in understanding and offered him another small smile. His eyes drifted over her paleness and bright eyes once more, and he looked upon her with concern. Something about her pallor and her demeanour were not quite right. And Dot looked worried. "Are you alright?" he asked gently. Phryne inhaled deeply and her shoulders fell.
"Of course" she replied simply. "Dot's biscuits are wonderful, they're really helping. I'll probably need a constant supply for the next six months" she smiled. Jack considered her for a moment and nodded. It was clear that something was wrong, but it was also apparent that she wasn't ready to tell him. Not just yet.
"Alright" he replied gently. "Are you feeling up to-"
"- sitting in a car, walking into the Registry Office, speaking to a clerk and collecting a piece of paper?" she asked teasingly. "I'm sure I'll manage" she smiled. Dot watched her and felt her own concerns increase. She suspected the inspector knew something wasn't right, too, as he looked slightly worried. But he nodded gently at Miss Phryne and looked at her with kind eyes which seemed to relax her slightly which, in turn, relaxed Dot also.
"Okay" Jack responded. "Are you ready?"
"Always, Jack" she replied gently. "We won't be long, Dot" she informed her companion, looking into her eyes and offering her a weak smile.
"See you soon, Miss" Dot replied warmly. Phryne nodded and linked her arm through Jack's, as he led her to the car, only one of them aware of the apprehensive expression on Dot's face.
Jack and Phryne obtained the document without issue, and were informed of the standard conditions and terms of the marriage license, which they listened to attentively. They arrived back home shortly after 3pm, where Phryne promptly locked the precious document in her safe, before sitting down in the parlour with Jack. They checked their diaries and discussed future plans and arrangements, before agreeing to marry on Saturday 12th April 1930. Phryne's concerns, although still present and causing her stomach to tighten, were lessened significantly by the presence of Jack, as well as the planning of their wedding, which made her feel more confident about their ability to look after the baby. They were creating a stable home life for their family, built upon their love and commitment for one another and their child. That was a start.
"I'll call the Registry Office and see if the date is available" Phryne said, rising from her seat. "It'll have to be in the morning, of course" she stated, considering the plans for the celebrations. Jack nodded in agreement.
"Of course" he responded, rising from his seat and standing before Phryne. "And you're certain you're happy to marry in a Registry Office, as opposed to a church?" he asked. They had discussed the matter previously, and Phryne had stated quite clearly that she did not want to have a church wedding, but he wanted to be sure.
"Yes, I'm certain" she replied gently, feeling suddenly quite nervous. Her experiences of religion, personally and professionally, had not been pleasant and she wanted to remove religion from their union as much as possible which, from a conversation she had had with Jack previously, he was quite content with. "Besides, you've already had a church wedding, and I'd hate for the process to seem repetitive" she stated teasingly, offering him a smile. Jack chuckled.
"That, Miss Fisher, would be impossible" he declared, placing his hand on her hip and drawing her towards him. She was still smiling.
"I'm very glad to hear it, Jack" she responded. "Because I fear if ever tried to set foot in a church wearing a wedding dress I would either burst into flames at the door or be struck down at the altar" she said lightly. "Certainly if I was wearing white" she added. Jack smirked.
"And are you wearing white?" he asked innocent. Phryne smiled.
"That, inspector, will be a surprise" she declared, smiling at him once more before reluctantly removing herself from his embrace and heading towards the phone.
Ten minutes later Phryne had spoken to the necessary individuals and had arranged for her and Jack to marry on Saturday 12th of April 1930 at 11am. Jack smiled at her when she told him and they kissed passionately in the hallway, as fear and relief and exhilaration coursed through their veins in equal measure.
"I have to go" Jack said as the kiss ended. "I'm sorry, Phryne. There's nothing I'd rather do than stay here with you and help to make the other arrangements."
"It's fine, Jack, really" she responded kindly. "We've talked about it and we know what we want" she added gently. "I'll make the calls." Jack smiled and nodded, before kissing her once more and telling her he'd be back late. She walked him to the door and watched him walk down the steps and towards his car. "Don't have too much fun in Little Lonsdale Street without me" she called, causing him to suppress a smirk as he turned back around to face her.
"I'll try not to, Miss Fisher" he declared, before raising his hand to wave and then turning on the spot and heading towards his car.
Phryne closed the door behind Jack and inhaled deeply, as fear and exhilaration continued to course through her veins. She smiled gently, before removing her hands from the door and heading back towards the phone. She had several very important calls to make.
After making the necessary phone calls to complete the arrangements for the wedding, including a call to an ecstatic Mme Fleuri whom she wished to instruct to make gowns for herself and Jane for a 'very special occasion', Phryne retired to the parlour and began to write out the invitations to the small and intimate wedding. Dot came in with a tray of lemon squash, sandwiches and ginger biscuits, and sat with Phryne as she wrote. They spoke of the wedding and the dress, and Dot waited patiently to see if Miss Phryne would open up to her as she had done in the garden. But it was clear that her mind was currently on the wedding, and she didn't wish to interrupt her, much less distract her from what she was currently doing. Shortly after 4pm Phryne declared that she was finished with the invitations and would take them to the post box herself. Dot, sensing she wished to be alone, agreed with her warmly and said she would speak to Mr Butler to ensure the arrangements for the weekend were running smoothly.
"Dot" Phryne called, just as she turned to leave. Dot turned on the spot and looked at her employer kindly. Phryne was holding some of the invitations in her hands, drummed her fingers on them lightly, and then took several steps towards her companion, before wrapping her hands around her and wrapping her in a warm and sincere embrace. "Thank you" she said, uttering the words with such emotion and sincerity that Dot felt quite overcome. She leaned back from the embrace and met Phryne's eyes, which shone brightly. "I won't be long" she assured her, pressing something into her hand before kissing her on the cheek and walking out of the room. When the front door closed behind Miss Phryne, Dot looked down at the item she had given her, and smiled as she opened the envelope to her and Hugh's wedding invitation.
Phryne walked the brief journey to the post box with her heart racing as her body was gripped by fear and excitement. When she reached her destination she posted each invitation individually; it felt terrifying and thrilling and completely empowering, and her breath caught in her throat as she pushed the last one through the gap. She leaned back from the post box and considered it for a moment, before turning on the spot and heading back to her house. Phryne was smiling the entire way home.
After arriving home safe in the knowledge that the main arrangements for the wedding had been made, and that they still had over two weeks to prepare other matters, Phryne's mind travelled back to her conversation with Dot in the garden, a subject she had been trying to banish since its inception. But now that she had no wedding arrangements to distract her, the matter came back to her with full, terrifying force. Her stomach tightened almost painfully and she swallowed hard. As she was processing her thoughts Dot stepped out of the dining room and called her name.
"Miss Phryne?" she called gently, causing her employer to turn towards her. "Would you like to sit in the garden until dinner?" she asked tentatively. Phryne felt a moment of panic.
"Thank you, Dot, but I think I need to lie down" she replied gently. She felt guilt and annoyance at herself overwhelm her as she observed the worried look on Dot's face, as her kindly companion began to walk towards her.
"Are you feeling alright, Miss?" Dot asked.
"I'm perfectly fine, thank you" she replied warmly. "I'm just so tired" she sighed gently. Dot nodded.
"Let me know if you need anything" Dot stated.
"Of course" Phryne replied, offering her a small smile. "Thank you, Dot" she added, before walking towards the staircase and heading up to her room.
As soon as Phryne closed the door behind her she inhaled deeply and released a long, slow breath. Her words to Dot echoed in her mind, as did Dot's response, which had reassured her slightly, but had not alleviated her doubts. In truth, she wasn't sure that anything would. She had so many fears and doubts about her ability to be a mother that they all seemed to meld together to create a single, overwhelming feeling of apprehension and abject terror. When she had confided in Dot her concerns about being like her father, she had felt a moment of release, relief and clarity. But it had only been temporary. And now, as she found herself quite alone in her room and unoccupied by any task which required her immediate attention, she found her mind wandering back to the subject which frightened her the most, and which she could talk about the least. Despite how much she really, truly, desperately wanted to talk to Jack about it. But she couldn't do it to him, how could she? It would be too selfish. Jack probably had enough of his own concerns about his unplanned impending parenthood without her adding to his already existent concerns; with her pregnancy itself, how unwell she had been and her emotional outbursts, she was becoming increasingly aware of how difficult she must be to be around right now, and she didn't want to make that worse, for Jack or anyone else. She couldn't do this, she couldn't afford to fall apart, not now. Jack's family were arriving the next day and she owed it to them, to him, to do everything she could to make them feel welcome and happy and reassured. Her fears and self-doubt would have to wait until she had time to address it properly and fully, and alone.
Phryne sighed at this lack of resolution and walked tiredly across the room, closing the curtains in a single deft movement before easing herself onto her bed and curling up to face the window. She was exhausted from planning and crying and thinking and she just needed to rest which, much to her relief, she was granted. Almost.
Phryne woke several hours later from a nightmare she had only experienced since her youth a handful of times; her father had locked her in that tiny, dank, airless room once more, and he'd left her there for hours, possibly overnight. Each moment she spent in there in the dream felt like a full minute in real life, and so she was very grateful to whoever it was who was presently knocking on her door.
"Yes?" she called tiredly, as she pushed herself into a sitting position. The door opened a fraction.
"Miss Phryne?" asked Dot gently, opening the door further and admitting light into the room.
"Yes, Dot?" Phryne asked gently, turning towards her as she ran a hand through her hair.
"Dinner will be ready shortly, Miss" she explained. Phryne nodded. "And Hugh is on this raid with Inspector Robinson, most of the officers are, apparently. And so I was wondering if you… might like me to stay a while?" she asked tentatively. Phryne's gentle expression softened and she turned towards her companion with a warm smile.
"Are you sure?" Phryne asked. Dot nodded.
"Of course, Miss" she replied confidently. "It seems like ages since we've just sat down and talked." Phryne nodded.
"Indeed it does" she agreed. She knew that Dot was worried, and she wanted to reassure her that she was fine, and she needn't be concerned. She looked up at her with a smile. "I'd be delighted, Dot" she stated. Dot smiled and nodded, before excusing herself from the room and heading downstairs.
Phryne and Dot had dinner together and spent the next couple of hours in the parlour, just talking. They talked about Dot and Hugh, their house, Hugh's attempts at trying to persuade her to go on holiday with him (which Phryne encouraged, as Dot was clearly keen to go, and only questioned the decision as she was worried about leaving her). They also talked about her sister, her nieces, a couple of films she wanted to see and a new dress she was working on making for herself. The conversation was easy and effortless and funny and a very, very welcome distraction for which Phryne was most grateful. She hadn't felt so care-free in weeks. Even as the subject of conversation shifted to herself and they discussed recent cases, the wedding and the arrival of Jack's family the following day, Phryne felt relatively calm and composed. They even talked about the baby a couple of times, mainly in relation to doctor's appointments, Phryne's health and how Jack took the news, and Phryne found these subjects to be ones she could deal with without feeling utterly terrified and bursting into tears, which she was grateful for. At half-past eight Mr Butler drove Dot home, and Phryne headed upstairs for a hot bath and stiff drink (or, at least, a really strong lemon squash).
After having a very long and soothing bath Phryne found herself feeling calm and relaxed and not the least bit tired. She sat at her dressing table and began to apply her damask lily-scented hand cream as she considered the day which had just passed. Despite her breakdown in the garden in front of Dot, she considered that the day had been one of considerable success; she and Jack had not only obtained a marriage license but had set a date for the wedding, arranged that date and then made preparations for the celebrations afterwards, and had even written and sent the invitations (with the exception of those she would be giving to Jack's family the following day). She had discussed the arrangements for the arrival of Jack's family with Mr B and all appeared to be in order, she had bought some last minute toys and amusements for the children, and had managed to go an entire day without vomiting or feeling the need to lock herself in a dark room and lay perfectly still for the next week or so. Phryne felt content with the day, which had been busy but well spent, as everything now felt like it was beginning to fall into place. And yet, the more she considered the arrangements and her household, the more she felt that something was missing. She pondered the issue for a couple of minutes and quickly realised what it was and what she must do to rectify it.
At half-past ten Phryne Fisher, who was dressed in a nightdress and cream robe, walked quietly down the stairs and towards the glow of artificial light from the dining room, where she could hear the tinkling of glass and silver. She stood in the corridor for a couple of moments and watched as Mr Butler cleaned glass, polished silver and inspected bottles of wine for the following day, even at this late hour. He really is a wonderful man, Phryne thought, as she watched him inspect a bottle of Chateau d'Yquem with an expert eye. She smiled.
"I think the '19 is a perfect choice, Mr B" she said gently as she walking into the room. Mr Butler, who had evidently not heard her approach, turned towards her with a warm look and a paternal smile.
"Miss Fisher" she said gently. "Thank you, yes. I hoped it would go with the menu for tomorrow evening" he smiled. Phryne nodded slowly in response. "Is everything alright, Miss? Is there something you require?" he asked congenially. Phryne shook her head.
"No, Mr B, thank you" she replied, as she took a few steps into the room. "I have everything I need" she added gently, before walking towards the table and indicating towards it. "May I?" she asked.
"Of course" Mr Butler replied. He had known Miss Fisher for long enough not to be surprised by her mannerisms, but being asked if he would mind if she took a seat at her own table was something of an oddity. He considered her for several moments, observing the paleness of her skin, the brightness of her eyes, her tense sitting position; she needed to talk, that was clear, and he was always more than willing to listen. He placed the wine on the table, slowly drew out a chair and sat down beside her. "Is everything alright, Miss Fisher?" he asked gently, his warm and paternal tone reassuring Phryne immeasurably.
"Yes, Mr B" she replied. "I… I'm sorry to call on you so late. I thought you'd be awake and I-"
"It's no trouble at all, Miss" he responded sincerely. "Please" he added, encouraging her to continue. She looked up into his kind, wise eyes and inhaled sharply.
"There's something I need to tell you, Mr B. It's rather serious" she began, her voice low and gentle. Mr B nodded gently in understanding, and appeared visibly unshaken by her words. He was watching her with the kindest, warmest eyes, which she felt certain were what gave her the strength to continue, despite the fact that she was presently struggling with her words. "It… it means that things will change, here, with us, and I will understand completely if that's not acceptable for you, and if you're unhappy with the position" she continued, pausing for a moment to collect her thoughts before she continued rambling. Mr B, who she believed may well be the most patient man in the world, nodded gently in response once more and watched her attentively.
"It's alright, Miss Fisher, I'm sure whatever it is we will be able to deal with" he responded warmly. Phryne inhaled sharply, hoping very much that he was right. She released a small breath and looked him in the eyes as she spoke.
"I'm pregnant" she said simply, the words low and gently spoken. Despite the fact that she had said it three times now, she wasn't finding it any easier or less daunting. She was looking into his eyes as she considered this, and noticed not a flicker of surprise or anger or frustration in his gaze or upon his face. After less than a moment he smiled.
"Congratulations, Miss Fisher, that's wonderful news" he said warmly. "I am very happy for you and the inspector. You must both be delighted." Phryne considered his words for a moment and nodded in response.
"I… yes, Mr B, thank you, we-" she replied gently. "You knew" she said, confusion present in her tone. Mr Butler watched her for a moment before half-nodding.
"I… suspected, Miss, but I didn't know for sure" he admitted gently. Phryne stared at him, shocked.
"Why- why didn't you say something?" she asked. Mr Butler looked at her warmly.
"It wasn't my place, Miss" he responded in a soft tone but with conviction. "I couldn't be sure, of course, but I knew that if it was the case then you would tell me if and when it became necessary that I know" he explained. Phryne watched him for a few moments longer before nodding.
"How did you know?" she asked with concern. Mr Butler looked at her affectionately.
"In recent weeks you haven't been eating as much as usual, and you've been avoiding certain foods which I know you are fond of. You haven't asked for Beef Wellington in over a month" he began. Phryne watched him intently. "You've also seemed – pardon me for saying, Miss – more tired than usual, and slightly paler on occasion" he continued, as Phryne nodded once in acknowledgement. "You also haven't asked me to prepare you a cocktail in almost a month, and your favourite cognac has been in the parlour untouched for about that time too." Phryne considered his words and nodded.
"Yes" she replied simply. "I found out about a month ago" she explained. Mr Butler smiled warmly at her and nodded.
"And you are… well, I hope, Miss?" he asked gently. Phryne smiled.
"Yes, Mr Butler. Thank you." She replied. He nodded.
"And the child?" he asked, his eyes lowering towards her abdomen, which was concealed beneath the table.
"The baby too" she confirmed, smiling gently in response. Mr B nodded.
"I really am very happy for you, Miss Fisher" he said affectionately. And he was. He really was. Phryne considered him for a moment before nodding.
"So, you… you aren't concerned about how this will change things, for us?" she asked gently. Mr Butler looked at her expectantly. "When I hired you it was to be a butler in the house of a single woman. I soon added Jane and now I'm adding a husband and infant too" she explained. "This isn't what you expected, Mr B, and I'd understand completely if you wanted to-"
"Miss Fisher" he interjected, for possibly the first time ever in Phryne's service, "I can honestly tell you that the thought had never once crossed my mind" he stated with conviction. Phryne nodded. "I would very much like to remain in your service, Miss, and it would be an honour and a privilege to work and reside in a house with the child of the Honourable Miss Fisher and Detective Inspector Robinson." Phryne smiled and nodded in response to this sentiment, and found herself feeling close to tears.
"Thank you, Mr B" she replied. "You don't know how very happy I am to hear it" she smiled, a bright, genuine smile which lit up her features. "And we would, of course, be honoured to have you." Mr Butler smiled at Miss Fisher's words and nodded.
"Thank you, Miss" he replied, with a slight bow of the head. Phryne smiled.
"Well, I think I've taken up enough of your evening" she said, rising from her seat and surveying the table. Mr Butler rose too. "Mr B, please don't trouble yourself over this weekend, you must be exhausted" she said, feeling guilty that he was working so late when he would be waking so early.
"It's not a problem at all, Miss" he assured her. "And I have just finished."
"Wonderful" Phryne stated, crossing her arms as she drew her robe across her. "Thank you, Mr B."
"Not at all, Miss Fisher" he returned, his warm eyes and gentle smile imprinting themselves on her mind as she walked back up to her room and got into her bed, where she slept peacefully and without dreams until the morning.
Phryne rose depressingly early on Friday morning to the familiar feeling of nausea and imminent sickness, prompting her to throw the covers aside and rush to the bathroom with her hand over her mouth, before dropping to her knees and vomiting into the toilet. She felt instant relief at having been sick, and the burning in her throat which was now commonplace felt almost bearable. As she rose to her feet she found that her dizziness was not as pronounced as usual, and the nausea she was currently experiencing was bearable. But as she flushed the chain and tucked some hair behind her ear, she heard the sound of movement from the bedroom and turned around to find Jack walking towards her.
"Phryne?" he said gently, blinking himself out of his tiredness and looking at her with a warm expression. Phryne considered how caring he was, how much he wanted to be there for her throughout all aspects of this pregnancy, pleasant and otherwise. He would've sat with her in the bathroom all day if she'd asked him to. Not that she ever would, of course.
"Sorry, Jack, I didn't mean to wake you" she replied, rubbing his arm gently. "How was the raid?" Jack watched her for a moment before responding; he knew she wouldn't want to be constantly asked how she was, so he'd have to gage it from their conversation. She was slightly pale but she seemed to be alright.
"Fine, yes, good" he replied, rubbing his head and inhaling deeply. "We managed to locate and arrest the main men and the girls have been taken to hospital, where I'm told they'll all recover."
"That's wonderful" Phryne stated sincerely. "Well done." Jack hummed in response.
"I was planning on going to the station a little earlier today to get started on the interviews with Collins. I want to make sure I'm out of there by half four to collect my family from the station" he explained. Phryne nodded.
"Of course" she smiled gently. Jack considered her for a moment.
"How are you feeling about today?" he asked tentatively. Phryne looked up at him.
"It will be fine, Jack" she responded warmly. "I'm really looking forward to meeting your family" she added. Jack nodded.
"They're looking forward to meeting you too" he assured her. Phryne forced her nervousness aside and smiled gently up at him.
"Naturally" she responded with a smile, feigning arrogance, as she allowed her hand to drift down his arm before heading back into the bedroom. Jack turned and watched as she headed towards her wardrobe and began to select some clothes.
"It's only seven, Phryne" he said gently, following her into the bedroom. "Why don't you go back to sleep? Get some rest?" he suggested tentatively. Phryne removed the silk blouse and dark blue skirt from the wardrobe and turned to face him.
"I'm awake now" she replied. "Besides, I have a few errands to run today and I need to make sure everything is prepared for Jane's return and your family's arrival" she explained, as she turned back towards the wardrobe and selected a pair of shoes, laying the ensemble over a chair and placing the shoes upon it. She could feel Jack watching her.
"Alright" he conceded, his voice warm and kind. "Is there anything I can do?" he asked.
"No, Jack, it's fine" she replied warmly as she turned around to face him. Her eyes met his and she felt instantly calmer and at ease. But as she stared at his kind face and gentle expression she thought of a conversation she'd had late the night before, and she knew she had to tell him. "I told Mr Butler about the baby last night" she said simply. Jack considered her words, smiled, and nodded.
"Good" he responded, taking a few steps towards her, "that's good, Phryne, I'm very glad you did" he added. Phryne looked into his eyes and realised that he really was. She nodded.
"Dot knew and so does Jane, and so it felt right that I should-"
"Phryne" Jack said warmly, placing his hands on her waist and looking into her eyes. "You don't have to justify telling Mr Butler about the baby, or anyone else" he stated gently but with conviction. "I'm glad you feel ready to tell some of the people closest to you, especially the people in your household." Phryne inhaled deeply and nodded.
"Thank you" she replied. Jack's hands drifted down her waist onto her hips. She hummed in response and took a step forward, placing her forehead upon his shoulder and leaning against him, running her hands up his back and holding him close.
Jack, somewhat surprised by the action, placed one hand in the centre of her back and held her to him. He was very glad that both Dot and Mr Butler were aware of her condition, as he knew they would take care of her, and take the necessary steps to make sure she and the baby were protected and cared for, even if she did try to take it upon herself to do that alone. He desperately wanted her to realise that she was not alone. He held her there for a short while before feeling her stand up straight and step back out of the embrace. His hands fell from her body and he looked at her with affection.
"Would you care to shower together, Inspector?" she asked huskily. "Seeing as we're both awake".
"How economical of you, Miss Fisher" he returned, placing a harm across her waist and walking back into the bathroom with her. She smiled.
After showering and enjoying a light breakfast together, Phryne said goodbye to Jack and headed into her parlour. Dot arrived with the morning post, which she handed to Miss Fisher, who began to sort through it quickly, along with some of yesterday's which she did not quite get around to giving her attention. Dot bought in a tray of iced water with lemon, fresh ginger biscuits (they truly were a godsend) and a draft of the menu which Mr Butler was working on for the evening, which Phryne approved of instantly. Phryne spent the majority of the morning dealing with the correspondence, writing to and telephoning potential clients, diarising various social engagements and events, writing cheques for the bills she had received, and calling to make an appointment with Gilly, her lawyer, about a few matters they would need to discuss over the coming weeks.
After she had distracted herself sufficiently with the organisation of both her business and social calendars, Phryne turned her attention to certain domestic matters which required her attention. She and Dot spoke to Mr Butler about the menu and the food, which he had ordered in abundance and was preparing as they spoke. She and Dot then went upstairs to inspect the guest bedrooms which were beautifully made out, thoroughly cleaned yesterday and again that morning, before being suitably aired and the beds adorned with fresh linen. Phryne inspected the quarters closely and was satisfied and grateful for Dot's efforts, and was beginning to feel marginally more relaxed about the impending arrival of her houseguests. As she moved from one guest room to the other, she stood in the hallway and looked back in at them both, and found a sudden though striking her apparently out of nowhere. I wonder which room should be the baby's? she pondered, causing her thoughts to immediately turn away from the domestic preparations of that day. Phryne inhaled sharply and glanced from one door to the next, briefly scanning each of the rooms and trying to decide which qualities a nursery should have. She immediately discounted the spare room at the other end of the hall near Mr Butler's quarters, as she didn't want him to be disturbed and the thought of the baby's room being at the other end of the house deeply unsettled her, so she returned her attention to the rooms before her. The room on the left was slightly smaller but a more than adequate size for a nursery, whereas the larger room beside it had the benefit of being closer to her bedroom…
"Miss Phryne?" said Dot gently, drawing her from her thoughts.
"Mm?" Phryne responded, turning towards her.
"Would you like to have lunch before we lay out the games and things for the children in the parlour?" she asked, her kindly eyes drifting over Phryne's face. Phryne blinked.
"Oh, no, I'll do that first, Dot, but thank you" she said gently, smiling at her companion as she led her down the stairs.
Phryne and Dot spent the next hour or so considering the parlour and removing from it anything particularly valuable, rare, breakable or risqué. One of the nude portraits was removed and replaced with a Salvador Dali painting Phryne had recently procured, and Phryne spent almost twenty minutes scanning her book shelves and removing anything outre, erotic or anatomically detailed, lest the curious children should stumble upon certain passages and illustrations. She carried her forbidden books into her bedroom and placed them at the bottom of her wardrobe, before heading back downstairs and setting up a small table with pencils and paper, stacking the board games and moving certain objects to higher shelves. At half past one she was satisfied with her and Dot's combined efforts, and acceded to accepting lunch, which they ate in the garden.
Phryne spent the next hour or so checking the rooms of the house again, consulting Mr Butler and Dot to make absolutely sure that all was in order and there was nothing else they required, before gathering her coat and bag and leaving to collect Jane from school. The car journey was filled with conversations regarding Jane's work, her activities and her friends, as well as certain revelations on Phryne's part regarding the fact that both Dot and Mr Butler were now aware of her pregnancy, and that she and Jack had set a date for the wedding. Jane smiled brightly for the rest of the journey.
Phryne and Jane returned to their home in St Kilda shortly after half past three, where Jane greeted Dot and Mr B warmly before heading upstairs to shower and change, as Phryne also headed up to her bedroom with Dot. Phryne had chosen the outfit she intended to wear that evening, which was a deep purple brocade dress with intricate patterns and a modest collar. Modest for Phryne, at least. Dot helped her on with the gown and her black shoes before sitting her at the dressing table and sat on the bed as Phryne brushed her hair and touched up her make up. Dot could tell that Miss Phryne was very nervous and attempting conceal it, and so decided to let her guide the conversation as she wished which, fortunately, was greatly assisted by Jane, who came into the room in her cream dress and spoke to Miss Phryne, which instantly brightened her worried countenance.
"Oh, Jane, you look beautiful" Phryne stated sincerely, smiling warmly at her ward, who twirled theatrically and then sat next to Dot on the bed.
"So do you, Miss Phryne" she replied warmly. "And you can wear your engagement ring tonight, can't you?" she asked. Phryne rose her left hand and moved her fingers to reveal that she was already wearing the ring. Jane and Dot both smiled.
"Indeed I can" she returned gently, as she considered the ring (and its meaning) with a tender expression. "It feels so wonderful that I don't have to hide it." Dot and Jane agreed with her and they continued to discuss the matter of Miss Phryne's wedding, as she finished getting ready before rising from her seat. "Shall we?" she breathed, gesturing towards the door. Dot nodded and rose first, heading across the room and opening the door. Jane, who also sensed Miss Phryne's anxiety, walked slowly towards her and clasped her hand tightly, smiling at her kindly, which she returned. She then turned on the spot and led her from the room.
As Phryne stepped into the parlour her attention instantly befell the small table in the centre of the room, which was adorned with jugs of water and squash, wine glasses, tall glasses and small plates, as well as a selection of light snacks consisting of small crustless sandwiches, miniature quiches (which the astute Mr Butler knew his employer was fond off), cheese straws and a small selection of cakes. Although dinner would be ready about an hour after her guests arrived, Phryne knew that such a long train journey would have been tiresome and provided little sustenance, especially for the children, and so she wanted to ensure that a generous supply of refreshments were immediately available for them.
"Thank you, Mr Butler, you have done a magnificent job, as usual" she said warmly. Mr B bowed his head slightly and smiled politely in response.
"It was no trouble at all, Miss" he replied generously. Phryne smiled. "Would you care for a drink, please?"
"Oh yes" she breathed, her eyes glancing longingly at her cognac, before turning her attention back towards Mr B. "Could I please have something fruity, refreshing and regrettably non-alcoholic?" she asked. Mr Butler smiled.
"Of course, Miss" he replied, before taking Miss Dot's and Miss Jane's orders and heading back to the kitchen.
Jane, who sensed that Phryne was still slightly agitated and nervous, headed over to the gramophone and began to select some music which she hoped would soothe her. Dot gestured to the armchair by the fire and Phryne sat down obediently, as the familiar sound of jazz music reached her ears and soothed her slightly. Dot sat down in the chair beside her and was making comments about the food, which Phryne responded to politely, before Mr Butler returned to the room and distributed their requested drinks. Jane accepted her sarsaparilla with a smile and warm thanks, Dot took her small sherry from him with a feeling of decadence, and Phryne received her fruity alcohol-free cocktail with gratitude. She could taste lemon and orange and raspberries, and it was delicious and fruity and incredibly refreshing. She placed it down upon the table and looked up at the clock on the mantel, realising that it was five minutes until five o'clock, and felt her stomach tighten with anxiety. For a moment she was worried that she was going to be sick, until the sound of a key in the lock and the front door opening wide tore her mind immediately from such notions.
Phryne rose to her feet and Dot did the same, as Jane adjusted the needle on the gramophone before stepping politely forward. Phryne took several steps and stood at the end of the table facing the door, as the sound of Jack's voice and quieter unfamiliar ones spoke in the corridor. Phryne inhaled deeply and composed herself, and waited patiently as Jack stepped into the room, his reassuring smile calming her instantly, as his eyes drifted to the door and to the entrance of the first person.
"Phryne" Jack said gently. "This is my mother, Sheila Robinson."
Jack's mother was a curvaceous lady in her early sixties, who wore a scarlet dress and maternal smile. She had dark brown hair and sun-kissed skin, and kindly, intelligent eyes which were identical to Jack's, and which focused immediately upon Phryne. Her smile widened and she walked immediately towards her.
"Mrs Robinson" Phryne greeted warmly, finding the kind eyes of the warm and intelligent woman before her calming her nerves instantly. "Phryne Fisher, it is so lovely to meet you" she said with a smile. Mrs Robinson met her gaze, smiled warmly upon her, and accepted her hand.
"Please, do call me Sheila" she responded, her voice deep and soothing. "And the pleasure is absolutely mine, Miss Fisher."