A scene I would have liked to have seen following the arrival of Baby Bates. Just some fluff, but hopefully fun.

Modern AU: Anna can't believe her good fortune when she lands an interview for her dream job...but when she meets the boss, she's not sure whether her luck is so good after all...

WW1 AU, 1916. Sergeant John Bates has been severely injured in the line of duty at the Battle of the Somme and is sent to a rehabilitation hospital back in England where he meets Nurse Anna Smith. Will she be able to bring him out of the shadows? Will he allow her to help him on the road to recovery?

A little scene between Ruth and Nelson.

A bit of Bromance.

A bit of family fluff inspired by the Bates family photo this week.

Modern AU: 'When Anna Smith moves to London to start a new job, she has no idea how much her life will change...'

Modern AU: John Bates is a football coach, an injury forcing him to retire from playing football at an early age. A visit from an old friend changes his life forever. Has John finally found something more important than football?

After being in prison for more than a year, John Bates decides to participate in the prison's pen pal program. When Anna Smith is assigned to him, will they both find comfort in a handwritten love?

My first cross-over fic, set in early season 9 for Spooks and after book 10 of the Ruth Galloway series. Just an idea I had to bring the two Ruths together. I don't own the characters, but I love them, so I'm borrowing them for a bit. Reviews are always appreciated. Cheers, S.C.

modern/au They were told 'where' and 'when' to meet but very little about the 'who'. Anna Smith only knows that his name is John. John Bates knows even less than that. For the batesessecretservice Banna Secret Santa exchange on tumblr and with best wishes for JamesLuver/thank-god-and-you. And a big THANK YOU to annambates for the cover art!

After losing his job at Downton Comprehensive, John Bates is attempting to rebuild his life. Former student Anna Smith is on the verge of small screen stardom. A school reunion brings new perspectives and second chances, bringing two different worlds together once more. Modern Anna x Bates AU. M rated from Chapter 12.

A/B. 1926. The Bates' marriage has weathered every storm thrown their way. So much has changed, but there's only one thing Anna wants to stay the same.

Modern AU: Anna Smith always loves the first snowfall of the year, as it signals the beginning of her favourite season…but this year perhaps it will signal the beginning of so much more. Written for the batesessecretservice Secret Santa Exchange on Tumblr for yourenotevenirish - hope you enjoy your gift!

An expedition to buy a Christmas tree turns out to be a little more eventful than John bargained for. Written for the Banna Secret Santa Exchange 2018.

Modern AU. If there was one thing John hated, it was the passing of Halloween.

Christmas 1925 proves to be a quieter affair at Downton Abbey, but merriment and excitement is still in the air - particularly for Mr and Mrs Bates.

What's a parent to do when their child is on the verge of discovering the truth about Santa Claus? Spin the truth. (Modern Banna and family with a hint of bromance).

After going through a bitter divorce, the last thing John Bates is looking for is love. Upon arriving back in Downton to work with his old friend, Robert Crawley, John meets and falls for a lovely waitress named, Anna Smith. Anna is a single mother trying to escape and forget a troubled past. Will the two finally find the happy ending they are both searching for?

When John's daughter and Anna's son become friends at nursery school, they don't expect their lives to change forever.

I have a few vignettes gathering dust on my computer. Some are from prompts on tumblr, some are just my reactions to scenes that affected me in some way. I've decided to dump there here as I come across them. Mostly canon, mostly rated K (otherwise noted) and not in any particular order. Please let me know what you think, thanks!

John had heard countless stories about the Highland faeries as a boy. They appeared under a full moon, his grandmother said. Dancing in the glens when the dew formed, enticing men to give away their souls. He never thought he'd end up marrying one.

A little series of drabbles in the FFF universe inspired and shared by Tumblr friends. These are not in chronological order.

Modern AU. When Anna agrees to help her longtime friend John avoid his ex-wife and navigate murky waters with his family, she never expects to realize she's not quite over her college crush on him. When it turns out that she needs his help as much as he needs hers, will either one of them be able to keep their feelings platonic? Rating change at Chapter 11.

An offshoot of "The Worst Kept Secret" by theglamorfades. How did John and Anna become a couple?

Modern AU. When John Bates agrees to take care of Isis whilst his best friend is away, he doesn't expect his world to collide—quite literally—with Anna Smith. Cover image by annambates.

Modern AU for Secret Santa Exchange 2017 "Did you mean what you said, earlier?" John asked, eyes still fixated on the child, "About marriage?" Anna sighed, "Oh, John. You're not still brooding about that are you? I've never known someone to dwell so very much."

New Year's Eve is the most predictable time of year - isn't it? Anna x Bates Modern AU one-shot.

written for annambates for the batesessecretservice Secret Santa on tumblr. John and Anna are thrilled to welcome eight month old Evan into their home on Christmas Day but the feeling is not quite mutual for some reason. Written in the 'Ten Items or Less' universe - consider it some kind of sequel, I guess. ugh, I hope this even makes sense... xoxo

Modern AU. Not everything goes quite according to plan in the Bates household on Christmas Day.

Like it did almost any time it came, the snow snuck up on them unexpectedly, in the dark of night. When John opened the curtains on the grey December morning, he raised his eyebrows and whistled.

Anna Smith and John Bates have been friends since childhood. As they both leave to attend university their futures threaten pull them in separate directions. But will a wild night redefine their relationship?

Bates and Anna's road to happiness has already had more than its share of bumps; his arrest and what comes of it is only the next test of their love. Short vignettes covering on- and offscreen scenes in their romance; sequel to "For This Love."

Modern AU. John has an aversion to Halloween, even with Anna's undying enthusiasm. But something might be about to change his feelings.

Modern Banna fluff

Little slice of modern AU Banna life

Random moments of Bromance between Robert Crawley and John Bates. Not in chronological order.

Anna and John enjoy their last half-day before the arrival of their first child.

Inspired by the song "Bus Stop" by the Hollies.

A life shattered does not have to be broken forever. It is simply different when the pieces are put back together; a mosaic that doesn't have to be less beautiful just because it has imperfections.

A letter that John writes to His Lordship the evening after the "One kiss, to take with me" scene.

It was strange, how quickly he had grown accustomed to being touched in such an intimate way. No one had ever done anything before, and he had been quite certain that no matter who was doing the touching, it was simply something that he would not get used to. But Anna had proven him to be wrong yet again. Now, it was his safety.

John Bates has always looked to the stars. Cover image by annambates.

Modern AU. There are certain mundane things in life that make it feel as if you're falling in love all over again.

John and Anna have an important discussion in the months before their baby's birth.

A series of drabbles written in response to the fic challenge, created by awesomegreentie and terriejane on Tumblr :)

Modern AU. Anna and John's plans to spend a quiet day together are derailed by the bad weather. It isn't always a bad thing.

John Bates had never felt so wonderfully fatigued in his whole life.

In the Chalk Pit, Elly Griffiths gives us one line to describe what happens between Ruth and Nelson. I didn't feel that was enough, so here is my take on what really went on upstairs. I don't own the characters, but I love them, so I'm borrowing them for a bit. Reviews are always appreciated. Cheers, S.C.

Modern AU. If Anna had been told three years ago that the week of her sister's wedding would change her own life for good, she probably would have wondered what on earth they had been smoking. She had longed for more, it was true, but she would certainly not have believed that such a clichéd scenario would have brought her together with the man that she was in love with.

Modern AU. After weeks of live performances, football commentator John Bates has made it to the final of "Dance With Me", in no small part down to his professional dancing partner Anna Smith. And with controversial performances and backstage dramas spilling into the public eye, this night is set to change John's life in ways he couldn't have guessed. Cover art by brendanbyfanny.

Alphabetically prompted snippets of 155 words in length. Waxing poetic with the Bateses. Enjoy.

Modern AU. Anna Smith had always loved flowers, but she had never thought that one strange bouquet would bring her together with a man like John Bates.

They've never spoken but their paths cross every day... can you really love at first sight?

Prompted by a Secret Santa exchange on Tumblr.

'Today was Anna Smith's most favourite day of the year.' Modern AU for the Secret Santa Exchange- Merry Belated Christmas mr-and-mrs-bates!

The years may have passed, but Anna and John Bates' love has never faltered.

December 1st means one thing at Grantham Industries: the official start of Christmas, and the all-important draw of the office Secret Santa. As the staff gather to take their picks, will John draw the one name he really wants? Written for the Banna Secret Santa Exchange 2016. Modern AU A/B, featuring other members of Team Downstairs.

Modern AU. Anna Smith thinks she's content with her life, her teaching career the focal point. Then she meets Sergeant John Bates, and soon her feelings of friendship blossom into more. However, the road to true love is never smooth and, sometimes, in the most hopeless of hours, there is a choice between fighting and fleeing which can prove the mettle of what was there all along.

Set in 1956. Father John Bates is at a turning point in his life when he's offered a chance at a new beginning...but life sometimes has different plans.

There is so much love in the Bates household.

From the beginning of time, people have judged others based on the surface of the story, forming opinions after seeing one side or clinging to their pre-conceived notions. From a young age, Lizzie Bates realises that the world isn't always a kind place, but she has learnt a valuable lesson along the way.

Journal entries written by John & Anna(actually Handy-for-the-bus & Terriejane)after they left service and became the proprietors of the Grantham Arms Hotel in Downton Village. Rated K through M.

Letters written between two newlyweds during WW2. Every post is one letter only, and you will have to wait for the next one to read the response. The letters come accompanied with a short scene (present or flashback).

It is time to make a dream a reality.

It was a war that had dragged on for months, and would probably never have a ceasefire. With his military background, John was quite the soldier. But, Anna had discovered, she could be quite the sergeant too. She would never concede defeat as long as there was air in her lungs. It was the loveliest of wars, one that she was more than happy to do battle in.

On a small Island in Scotland an injured soldier returns home to heal his body and soul, but little does he know that his recovery is in the hands of an unknown friend. Begins in the Summer of 1945.

A series of alphabetic drabblish snippets in the life of Anna Smith and John Bates. Originally from the Tumblr drabble challenge. The words were given to me by my online bestie Anglophile68.

Modern Day AU, Coffee House Fic. Fluff? Probably. Based on a prompt from awesomegreentie. We started with a T rating, but who was I kidding? We promptly moved up to a strong M at Chapter 5.

Modern AU. For the last six weeks, they had had the same argument at five to nine on a dark Sunday evening.

"After a bad break-up, the AMB dance club is the last place John wants to be, but a chance encounter there ends up changing his mind...and his life."

Modern A/U - Anna Smith is an up and coming fashion designer while John Bates is trying to put his life back together while working as a personal assistant to TV Executive Robert Crawley. John and Anna are convinced by their close friends to try online dating in order to find love, but will they be successful?

Modern AU. The best relationships bloom through simple, shared joys. Cover image by annambates.

When Anna goes to the Harrogate RSPCA to adopt a homeless cat, she finds more than she bargained for.

Little one shots of roughly 1,000 originally written for a Tumblr challenge. Could be anything, but all are Banna.

Anna spots a special pair of shoes. Modern AU, written for the 'A Picture is Worth a 1,000 Words' challenge on Tumblr.

Anna wants to do something special for John, and enlists their children's help.

John and his son, Jack engage in a Star Wars inspired light saber battle while Anna runs errands.

Two hearts, finding each other unexpectedly, fighting through adversity, celebrating in joy - becoming one. Anna and Bates throughout their relationship, in scenes throughout the series of Downton (canon and AU), and how their love conquers all.

Best friends would do anything for each other - even pretending to be more than that, for a day. Modern AU.

Modern AU. Glimpses into Anna and John's relationship as they deal with highs and lows, together as Team Bates.

Modern AU. After Anna suggests that they should watch a TV show together, John confides in his friend. Robert thinks he's got the measure of it, but John finds that the evening goes beyond his wildest expectation.

She'd never thought that she would meet a man like him. But John Bates is an enigma at the best of times, and Anna Smith simply can't work out whether the man that she's fallen in love with has given his heart in return.

Could a series of unlucky mishaps for two lonely travelers end up being the very best luck of all? / Written for batesessecretservice's Banna April celebration on Tumblr ;)

Two is company but three is a crowd when it comes to bed time.

Eight months into her pregnancy, Anna is having trouble sleeping at night.

CHAPTER THREE: "He's a good father. She never doubted he would be, but she never tires of marveling at it, either." Post-season 6 collection of one-shots featuring the Bates family.

Modern AU. Anna's Valentine's Day plans had not involved reeling in a stubborn Mary determined for revenge on Matthew. John had not envisaged he would spend the night trying to stop a rebounding Robert from completely spoiling things with Cora. But on the day for lovers, fate has a way of working things out.

Modern AU. John Bates, an eclectic Artist and Dr. Anna Bates, a controlling surgeon meet on Christmas Eve while waiting for news about loved ones in the hospital. They are quickly captivated by one another's kindness and caring ways, but will their polar opposite lives prove to be too much chaos for a chance at real love?

Short slices of Banna, mainly from Terriejane's Weekend Challenges on tumblr, plus other odd assorted prompt type things that have passed through my head.

He had been gone for ten months, but it felt like centuries ago. For now, the memories would have to do. Modern AU.

A modern A/U one shot where John Bates is desperately trying to get home in time for Christmas with his wife and children

It promises to be the best year of their life.

With the war in South Africa stretching on longer than anticipated, Robert has a drink with his batman and reminisces about home.

"I promise, Mister Bates. I believe in your innocence, and I won't rest until you are free," Anna Smith said, addressing him with all the ideological innocence of a new solicitor.

Modern AU. John Bates has no idea how his life is going to change when Anna Smith asks a favour of him.

John Bates isn't looking forward to facing his hardest Christmas, but a call from his best friend Anna gives him a reason to celebrate. Modern Anna x Bates AU.

Modern AU. She is still the main suspect of Green's murder, but finally out of prison, at least for the time being. Desperately looking for a job, while trying to put her life back together, Anna meets Mr Bates.

"The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra." Modern AU: He rescued her in the express check-out, and she rescued him from a life of ordinary. Written for silly-beggar and the Team Bates Secret Santa Exchange. Please R and R.

The sun beat down on them, accentuating the fine figure of her husband, hunkered over in the tiny garden that was really no more than a patch of grass.

"If we have to leave here, if we have to leave the country, we are going to be together." AU from S2E6.

Years have passed by in the blink of an eye, and yet the people within these hallowed halls haven't changed much in the decade that she's been away.

Halloween had never been John's favourite time of the year, but perhaps his opinion can be changed...

This little piece of fluff is down to silly begger on tumblr. That'll teach you to put ideas into my head! John and Anna, AU, not so strangers stuck in a lift. Same old same old.

"Mr Bates," her voice was soft, though it had a ring to it too. Persuasion. "Will you come and dance?" - Modern Anna x Bates one-shot.

Drabbles set in "Play Dates and Park Benches" verse I post on tumblr, usually in response to requests and prompts. May contain slight spoilers.

He had never felt so blessed. Spoilers for S6E4.

Vignettes from season one from Anna's perspective.

A ficlet for each episode - revealing a little more of what happened between Anna and Bates each step of the way, through the good and the bad. (Trigger warnings for Chapter 20 and 29.)

Anna is a maid travelling with the Earl of Grantham and his family to Newport, visiting Lady Grantham's family. John is seeking a new life in America, away from his past sins. Sparks fly on the ship of dreams and startling revelations promise to change both of their lives for good, but when the ship hits the ice they are not guaranteed a happy end. Highclere Award '14 nom/winner.

It's both the proudest and most difficult day of John Bates' life.

Anna's new dress affects John in unexpected ways.

Brandon and Marianne in the months after Willoughby had broken her heart. A short story.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but Anna thinks a kiss is worth a thousand more.

Bates and Anna au that takes place during the logging boom in the Santa Cruz mountains of California in the late 1800s. M for mature themes. It is really not as far-fetched as it sounds. Come on, give it a chance. You won't be sorry. Seriously. Read the reviews if you won't take my word for it.

The question comes as she sits at the little table she uses for work.

Anna is the only child of Simon and Amelia Smith, owners of a successful cotton factory. When she reaches the age of 21, they decide she's old enough to learn the family business and wed the son of Simon's most trusted business partner. However her parents plans don't go as they wish when Anna discovers that the world holds more than an arranged life. AU, begins in 1851, London

Encounters with the Crawley children prompt Bates to reflect on his childhood and his resulting doubts as to whether he can be a good father.

Modern A/U John Bates is an international acting sensation who has just bought a vacation home in St. Andrews. Anna Smith is a grad student at St. Andrews University. When John hires Anna as his house sitter will the two of them finally find forever?

A "fill-in-the-blank" canon-style journey through Anna and Bates' courtship. I think of this as a "prequel" to A Meeting at Night and Homecoming, but each of the stories can stand alone. This is to be a multiple chapter fic, which began with a T rating and firmly MOVED UP TO A STRONG M AT CHAPTER 16.

Lady Mary sends Anna on an errand to Ripon and she is pleased when Mr. Bates asks to walk with her.

Anna sees an unexpected but familiar man playing the piano. Modern AU.

In the past, that combination of words together had never failed to send shivers down Anna's spine. In the present, she heaved a heavy sigh, pushing tendrils of hair that had escaped from her messy bun away from her face, whole-heartedly wishing that she never had to hear those words ever again.

It was official. They were moved in. A fresh start ahead of them.

"Would you?" The words were whispered so quietly that it took a moment to register them. When he did, heat flooded his cheeks, and his pulse began a nervous throb in his throat. Anna's eyes were on him, wide and eager, penetrating through to his very soul."Of course," he croaked. "Anything for you."

Modern AU. John Bates is struggling to get his life back on track after a traumatic experience. He follows his mother's advice and seeks help with a therapist, Anna Smith. Can she help him get through this difficult period and ignore the growing connection between them?

He went away, time after time, but their love could never keep them apart. Modern Anna x Bates one shot.

A sequel to "Twelfth Night" and "First Birthday." Bates adjusts to the demands of fatherhood and friendship. Angst-free Bates family fluff and RoBates bonding.

He'd had flashes of terror in Africa. He'd had real fear when he'd been shipped back to England to recover. He'd been afraid when he'd come to Downton. But he wasn't afraid of being sacked anymore. He wasn't afraid of the pain he was putting himself through. There was something far bigger to preoccupy his mind now. He remembered her smile, and shivered.

When an affair runs its course, what direction do you turn?

Modern AU. Life can always come up with a few surprises. (completely A/B, but with other characters' appearances as well)

Bates and Anna couldn't have known where that first handshake would lead them: short vignettes covering on- and off-screen scenes in their romance.

Amorous meetings at night. Chapter 1: A wedding night. Chapter 2: A homecoming.

Self explanatory. Takes place after our intrepid duo's first off-screen kiss between series one and two.

Can lovers who were ripped apart in one life find each other and reconnect in the next? AU Anna/Bates reincarnation story. What would have happened if Bates had hanged? Romance with a heavy dollop of mystery as Anna and Bates's paths cross once again and they are inexplicably drawn to each other. Will they figure who they were in the past? And how does that affect their future?

John needs a little incentive to stay in bed, and Anna is more than happy to provide it.

John Bates was never a fan of games. Fate put a stop to his participation, but when it brings wonders he could never have imagined, he wishes that he could measure up more. AU after S6.

He imagined the scene now; a normal day up at Downton Abbey. Anna, sitting in the servants' hall. The others surrounding them at the table. Anna's status would be there for everyone to see: the dearest person in his heart, a heart that took every sole beat for her like a clock tuned to its master's hand.

John and Anna, along with their children, take a trip to Ireland to visit John's cousin. After his eldest daughter drops a bombshell on their faery hunt, John is determined to spoil his wife, but Anna has a secret of her own.

It's Valentine's Day in Downton. John Bates, is the owner of The Red Lion, struggling as a bar tender with his past and under the assumption that love and life is passing him by. But a chance encounter with Anna Smith will turn his life upside down.

Terriejane (on Tumblr) gives the first line and we have to write around it. It's fun and if you want to give it a try go on Tumblr and look for her blog. Every week she posts as few lines and they are always fun! Hope you like these little drabbles :)

Slightly steamy Banna written for one of terriejanes pic fic prompts. John is more cooperative about letting Anna tend his knee with a little...incentive.

Weekend Challenges by Terriejane. Some will be Modern and AU.

A small collection of independent 100-word drabbles about Anna and Bates in a wide variety of settings. Most of them were inspired by Terrie's graphic/picture prompts on Tumblr.

Modern AU. He always left her chocolate candies on her desk. They were a secret, of course. And on Valentine's day, she expected another. After working for the man for ten months, she knew it would be forthcoming. Mister Bates was sweet like that, to think of her.

What would the world be like without John Bates? That is the question that Mr. Bates is forced to ask himself as Christmas is fast approaching and his wife Anna is awaiting her fate in prison. Will his guardian angel be able to show John his true worth? And what would have happened to his family, friends, and co-workers had John not existed?

When a snowstorm leaves Anna Smith, a nurse from Yorkshire stranded at a cozy roadside diner run by one Mr. John Bates, could it be the start of something wonderful? Modern A/U, mostly shameless holiday fluff and cuteness.

If God wouldn't give them a chance, perhaps they should make one themselves, Anna decided. But she knew God worked in mysterious ways.

A secret is confessed on a quiet evening in the cottage.

One shot Banna AU. John doesn't like birthday surprises...but he'll like this one. From terriejane's weekend challenge prompts

John's mother challenges him to admit his feeling for Anna.

Their greatest dream had come true once more, just in time. Spoilers for S5 CS.

A short one-shot loosely based on a song I really like called "Same Old Lang Syne" by Dan Fogelberg. Anna and John run into each in the grocery store after being apart for many years. Will it be awkward or is this exactly what both of them have been looking for?

He could not keep his hands off of her. Spoilers for S5CS.

Modern AU - When John Bates knocks on the door of his goddaughter's cottage, he didn't expect to find someone else living there. Christmas fluff based on a well-known Christmas film.

Ever since they met, their Christmases have never been quite conventional. Modern Anna x Bates AU, Christmassy fluff.

A bit of modern AU Banna Christmas fluff. Inspired by TerriJane's Weekend Challenge on tumblr and loosely based on the Christmas song, "Christmas Wrapping" by The Waitresses.

My contribution to Terriejane's tumblr challenge. John lives in the mountains, but when his friend Robert calls in a favor he reluctantly opens up his cabin to help an actress research a role for an upcoming movie. John isn't looking forward to it, but will that change when he meets Anna Smith? Right now it's just a one part stand alone, but that might change.

"I loved you and you left me without so much as an explanation. Vanishing from everywhere I knew. You didn't return my calls or my messages. I couldn't even know if you were still alive." Modern AU, Christmas.

Modern AU. Anna and Bates meet at a pub the night before Christmas Eve. The Game is on! Nothing but fluffy flirty fun, with maybe a touch of steam...

Modern AU. John Bates, finally having called things off with his on-again-off-again girlfriend Vera, has been working at Grantham Books for a few months when he first meets Anna, a captivating young graphic designer who is everything he isn't. Primarily Anna/Bates, but with cameos from most of our faves.

Series 2 Ep 3 One shot from Bates pov.

What would our story have been like if Mr. Carson & Mrs. Hughes had secretly married in 1914? Many characters are in for a roller coaster ride of humour & heart as they furiously try to keep it all under wraps. An alternative look at the story we've come to love so well. *Starts during S1E6*-Chpt 15 & 34 are a bit M

A series of daily drabbles I did on Tumblr back in September. All fluff and smut…so basically all the happy Banna for your enjoyment!

Please note: Spoilers through S5E8. When Anna returns home, John isn't the only one to welcome her with open arms.

John tries to be helpful as Anna sorts through various outfits in an attempt to find the perfect dress for an evening out.

Continuation of the cottage scene in S5E7. Their troubles are seemingly behind them, and Anna and Bates are so very happy.

Different universes, same love.

Anna comes home after getting caught in a rainstorm, and Mr. Bates is there to greet her.

John and Anna spend a night to themselves attending a premiere for a show John has been working on.

"Anna didn't know how she had managed to exist without it upon her; already it was like a piece of her, as important as a limb or a vein connected closely to her heart, as significant and as rooted as her soul." Canon one-shot, set in 2.8. Inspired by an OTP Prompt. Slight M rating.

Modern A/U - Response to prompt from Tumblr: "A 19 year old Anna meets a 35 year old Mr. Bates in London."

Modern A/U: Bates and Anna's journey through the difficulties of infertility. A look into the future can be found in our fic Christmas Cheer

The setting is London in 1912 and John Bates is a campaign manager for Robert Crawley. During a speech for the Labour Party, John has a chance encounter with a young, Anna Smith, a budding journalist for The Sketch. Will their meeting prove to be a life changing moment for Mr. Bates?

London -1905. It was as though she'd flipped to a page in a book too soon and read a few lines out of order in the story.

The slow yet inevitable evolution from strangers to friends and from friends to the promise of something more.

Bates finds something Anna did not intend for him to see and misunderstands why she has it. SPOILERS for S5E2

Bates reflects on how imperative Anna's smiles are to his happiness. Originally posted on my tumblr.

Just a musing of what breakfast between modern John and Anna would be like

Anna and John try to enjoy themselves at the beach, but a conversation with Mrs. Hughes leads John to contemplate the issue of misunderstanding. Can he and Anna use the unexpected turn of events that arise to reassemble their lives properly?

Anna's world is rocked again by devastating news. Things only get worse when she overhears a conversation between Lady Mary and Mrs Hughes about John's fabled visit to York on the day of Green's death. With doubts festering for the first time, she sets out to discover if her husband really is capable of murder. In turn, can she allow him to support her through her own struggles?

While spending an evening at the fair, Anna and John come across a new attraction.

Anna brings her newborn daughter up to the house to introduce her to the servants, and cherishes watching John with her.

When Lady Mary bobs her hair, Anna wonders if she should do the same, and asks John for his opinion.

Modern AU. Ex-military, divorcee, lame and a penniless writer. John Bates doesn't have a lot to look forward in life until he sees her across the street.

Anna and John are very much enjoying their first few days in the cottage, with readying their home falling a little by the wayside for more pressing activities. But when John takes a bath and Anna decides to join him, things don't quite go as planned.

Sometimes, in the face of extreme loneliness and melancholy, the mind creates a mechanism whereby a person can cope with their hopelessness. Almost physically wanting her into being, he could picture Anna in the drawing room seated next to him in his mother's chair.

Fluffy Anna and Bates family drabbles and scenarios in no particular order.

Oneshots based on Anna and John's relationship, from the fledgling days of friendship to the horror of his imprisonment, stretching beyond into their happy life together.

Will the walk home from the flower show be awkward now that Anna has admitted she's in love with Mr. Bates?

John is interested in Anna's scars.

As John and Anna embark on their new life she recalls how an item of John's got her through her darkest time.

Modern AU one shot shamelessly stolen from the short "Happy Birthday To Me" starring Brendan Coyle.

The Bates family spends a day by the sea.

Some sweet Banna fluff set post Series 4.

Modern AU for Anna and Bates, loosely based on their S1 and S2 courtship. Bates is a bartender in New York City, and Anna is a graduate student and a frequent customer. Each chapter is an opposing, parallel pair of 100-word drabbles.

Bates and Anna have finally found happiness together. *Major Fluff Alert*

John and Anna have been friends for years but suddenly John dreams of something more.

Anna asks Bates to read to her in bed.

Post Prison Release Series 3 - Anna and Bates have a heated moment of reunion in the courtyard. Will they be able to keep themselves from getting carried away?

John and Anna Bates' two year old hates naps. And afternoons off aren't what they used to be.

Modern Anna x Bates one shot. At a dinner party held by the Crawleys in the grand surroundings of Downton Abbey, Anna and John get the chance to explore.

In the space of a few hours, Anna Smith's life is turned upside down. Can a chance encounter on a Underground train change everything for the better, and guide her to where she is meant to be? Modern Anna and Bates AU, based on the film Sliding Doors. M Rated from Chapter 10. [Winner of 2014 Highclere Award for Anna/Bates Modern AU story]

Acts of kindness never go unrewarded, especially to those who show kindness the most of all.

"Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light." - Helen Keller :: The worlds of Anna Smith and John Bates become unexpectedly entwined, as they both question everything they've based their lives upon. :: Modern A/U

Modern/AU - Inspired by this 'Imagine Your OTP' prompt on Tumblr - "Imagine Person A teaching Person B of your OTP how to kiss, and Person B ends up kissing Person A really quick, nervously asks "Like that?" and leaves Person A silent and flustered for a moment."

She'd said the words aloud, determined not to dwell on the past. But merely an hour has passed since Lorraine's announcement about leaving for London, and with a pleading Sonya at her office door, Nikki can't quite shake off the feeling that perhaps her idea of ancient history isn't so ancient after all.

He gazed across the bed at his wife's face, relaxed and innocent in slumber. In these moments, she looked as young and untouched by life as the first day they'd met. Rated M

"Deny me light, deny me spring, but never your laughter, for I would die." Pablo Neruda

This is the story of how Clarisse became wife to King Rupert and Queen of Genovia.

John and Anna Bates are enjoying a quiet morning, catching up on some sewing in the servants' hall, when they find themselves drawn in to the complicated tangle that is Thomas, Miss Baxter and Mr Molesley. One shot at the moment, but may become a mini-story. Some spoliers for series 3 and 4.

Series 1 A/U - What if John had already been divorced when Anna confessed her love on the way to the flower show? Would he be able to overcome his doubts and insecurities and accept her love? This is a two-part fic.

S4 spoilers. After many months of healing, Mr. and Mrs. Bates begin to make up for lost time.

They release the prisoners at dawn.

When Bates returns home with the cut above his eye, Anna seeks him out later that night in the hope of easing his physical and emotional pains. Set during 2.06 after Bates returns from London. One-shot.

John Bates knows that he's not destined for great things, not after the life that he's had. But perhaps he can show the measure of himself in other ways.

Two friends trying to find their way free from their pain.

Series 1 - Slight A/U (but who knows?) - After Bates brings her the lovely tray; Anna witnesses him shoving Thomas against the wall, and goes to the courtyard to think. What happens when Bates joins her?

In the third episode of an eight part series conflicts are introduced, and arcs begin. So this is a bit of a launch pad. Everybody is in it including a couple of my own additions. There's flapper-talk, a storm, too much sherry, a fire and a suspension. Some romance, because so much romance was lost and needs to be made up for. And hopefully, humor. Action is in italics.

John Bates takes the early morning train for a new start in life.

Action in italics. Almost everybody in it but Isobel. She will be in next E3 according to me.

A/U following a brawl between Bates and Green where Thomas is involved.

AU set during series 1. Anna finds out about Bates limp corrector.

Fanfic screenplay for Season 5 Episode 1 of Downton Abbey. Sorry about the formatting. Action is in italics - my attempt to be more clear. Transferring formatting from Final Draft to Text has taken more out of me than it probably should have. Everybody's in this one, nearly.

The good times. The bad times. The times when they almost held hands. Set during the Christmas Special. Mr Bates and Anna-related angst.

John and Anna spent months travelling on the same bus to the same job but never noticed one another. That is until now. But will they act upon their feelings?

Downton's yearly tradition of anonymous gift-giving is upon the servants. Anna pulls her husband's name out of the hat—something she has always wanted to do—but what kind of special gift can she get for the man that she's already married to?

S2/AU - What happened the night that Bates told Anna he booked the registrar? Major fluff alert!

Modern story. Anna and John met at a party just before John left to go to war. They stayed in contact until John cut all ties after his injury. Years later they meet again under different circumstances. Through changes in both their lives, they can't be more then friends. But is friendship enough with their history?

A series. These are the moments I craved to see, as Anna falls more in more in love, beginning at the end of S1 E1. Some interstitial moments, and Anna's stream of consciousness in certain scenes. These are not my characters.

Anna and Bates, one year after the opera concert night. Spoilers for Series 4.

Anna is feeling frustrated after the garden party.

An exploration of Bates's character and personal growth, especially in relation to his relationship with Anna.

Anna and John's life together is pushed to the limit by the arrival of the charming Mr Green, who turns out to be anything but. When the unthinkable happens and they are left to deal with the consequences, can they ever be happy again?

Short piece that directly follows the garter scene, Series 3 Episode 2.

One-shot that follows Mrs. Hughes's activities and thoughts before and during the Servants' Ball (S2 Christmas Special). She ponders the troubles Downton Abbey has seen in the past few years, particularly the ones that have affected her the most deeply, and tries not to think about that one little word that she does not allow herself to say, even in her mind.

Follows Pub scene, S02E03. I have always felt like Anna would have needed a bit more reassurance from John after their break. I also think that an understanding was established between them about their relationship before going forward. Anna loves John but she is no fool. John has a bit more diffusing to do. This is what results when my mind goes that way.

The arrival of Mr Pamuk causes a stir both above and below stairs, leading Anna and Mr Bates into a conversation about what makes someone beautiful.

On the eve of Mary's wedding, both Carson and Mary seek a bit of quiet time with each other, as any father and daughter might do. *With a hint of Carson/Hughes pairing.

Modern story about our favourite Downton couple. John Bates is a history professor who gives a lecture in Ghent. Anna Smith is an actress who's shooting a film in Ghent. The two meet by chance.

George has a mishap, forcing his mother to confront a long-held fear. One-shot set in the world of "In the Company of Strangers".

Bates has something to Anna. Something that it was meant to be hers. Takes place during their first night in the cottage.

Anna and John attempt to rekindle their relationship following his return.

First Kiss prompt by The Servant's Hall. Set after 1X07 and before 2X01, Molesley's meddling during a village party leads Anna to ask Mr. Bates some unsettling questions.

Anna is having a bad day, made worse by going to a place she'd rather not. But things can turn around, and as she discovers, surprises are in store. One-shot, written for Anna/Bates 'first kiss' prompt challenge. Set between 1.6 and 1.7.

John fights depression and tries to get his life back on track. Anna's past still torments her and she's forced to take some time away from work to move on. They both end up in a place called Calm Waters. Will they be able to help each other and cure themselves? Modern AU. M-rated from Chapter 9. Nominated for two Highclere Awards, winner of A/B angst.

Spring has arrived in the hamlet of Lark Rise, and young Edmund Timmins is telling an unlikely tale, the likes of which his mother Emma finds troubling. But Emma's troubles don't end there, for her husband Robert seems increasingly out of sorts... Robert/Emma. One shot.

Set during 3x09 (i.e. the Christmas Special) following Anna's dance at the Ghillies' Ball.

AU Modern fiction. John Bates is a single father, former fireman, now a mechanic. Anna Smith is a famous singer. The two meet at Mary Crawley's 30th birthday party. The Crawleys and their daughters also feature heavily...

A series 1 Bates/Anna "missing moments" oneshot collection, attempting to explain what's going on in their heads and fill in a few scenes where they're occupying the background. Banna, possibly (probably) featuring other couples in the near future.

When Mr. Bates' cane is stolen, Anna helps him buy a new one. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna and John enjoy the sight of each other early in the morning. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

S02E03 AU. John takes Anna as his mistress. Prompted by anon on Tumblr. Nominated in A/B fic in Highclere Awards 2014.

S02E03. Anna and John take a walk after Anna confronts him in the Red Lion pub. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna and John ruminate on each other through the five senses. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna tells John that she's pregnant while he's in prison. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

S02E05. After Vera's visit, Anna needs some reassurance that John is hers and hers alone. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna and John, in happier times. Various scenarios prompted by various people on Tumblr.

John's baking session turns messy. Prompted by phoenixwrites on Tumblr.

Anna notices one of John's quirks; John discovers that a mundane activity is more exciting to Anna than he'd initially thought. Prompted by a-rabbit-hearted-girl on Tumblr.

Anna is woken by John's nightmares for the first time. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna and John reunite at the cottage after Mr Matthew's death. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

Anna is greeted by her cycle for the first time since moving into the cottage with John. Prompted by anon on Tumblr.

John goes swimming at the lake where he threw the limp corrector. Whilst there, he runs into Thomas.

Elsie's reflects on how both she and Charles are part of Downton Abbey and wonders about the future.

John Bates reflects on various meanings of the word "anything" in his life. Spoilers for 3x07.

Hello there, FanFiction world. Yet another virginal author ready to risk semi-public humiliation with a bit of my musings. Disclaimer: I don't own any characters created by Jullian Fellows or ITV. I do, however, own a garter.

Modern AU. Anna is a successful ballet teacher with a charming boyfriend. John is a single dad who is going through his second divorce. When Anna becomes John's daughter's ballet teacher, everything can change. Will they give into their feelings?

With their first New Year as a reunited married couple upon them, Anna and John make plans for their future.

A new event brings some changes into the lives of Mr and Mrs Bates. Spoilers for S3.

It's Christmas 1914. Anna and Mr Bates' situation is the same as it always has been, until a mishap under the mistletoe forces everything to change. Winner of A/B canon, and nominated in A/B angst in Highclere Awards 2014.

Five Christmases. Five different wishes that are hoped for. It's a time for magic to happen and dreams to come true - will they do so for Anna and John? Set from S1-S3.

John Bates has finally been released from prison. Bit of fluff, really. Spoilers for series 3.

Mr. Bates helps Anna come to terms with her actions after the Pamuk incident. Set after 1.03.

"His lordship said to stay in bed and read books. I don't think he had this in mind."

Frustrated by her family's inability to see things her way, Edith turns to Anna for reassurance about following her heart.

John Bates learns a new truth. Little more than a drabble.

Slight S2/S3 AU one-shot. What if John had still been granted the reprieve, but Anna and Lady Mary had taken their trip to America? Within a world of difference, there are some things that can't be left behind. Anna/Bates from across the ocean, with some Anna/Mary friendship.

While in France, Anna purchases a present that she thinks her husband will enjoy.

Anna and Gwen discuss flowers and followers, and Mr. Bates finds a way to smooth the waters. Anna/Bates, with Anna/Gwen friendship.

Anna and John have finally been afforded the time to get used to each other. Highclere Awards 2014: Winner of A/B fluff. Nominated in M-rating and A/B fic.

During the course of one very long day, John Bates confronts the ghosts of his past including PTSD and alcoholism which allow him to express his feelings for Anna for...the first time. Takes place between Seasons 1 and 2, soon after the war started. Chapter 7 is up: LAST CHAPTER! Anna's past allows John to say those three little words for the first time.

She had always loved Christmas, ever since she was a little girl. He didn't particularly care for it, not after so many unhappy memories. But each Christmas is different from the other, and opinions and views could be changed. For both of them.

He had promised her that he wouldn't give up on hope. But promises are made to be broken. Nominated for a Highclere Award 2014 for technique and A/B angst.

In the aftermath of Mr. Pamuk's unfortunate demise, Anna finds herself in need of a salve. Anna/Bates friendship

Carson to Lady Mary: "Suppose I give you a sixpence to spend in the village instead?" What did Mary buy with her sixpence and how does it play into their futures? A hint of Carson/Hughes at the end.

An early night beckons for Anna, but like so many before this one, she finds that rest isn't coming so easily to her. But then it occurs to her that being wide awake in the middle of the night isn't a new problem...a series of some of Anna's sleepless nights, from DA Series 1 to an imagined S3. [Winner of 2013 Highclere Award - characterisation of Anna, characterisation of Bates]

Bates finds a moment of quiet in his day. Set in early S1. Anna/Bates if you squint. Companion to Quiet.

Anna finds a moment of quiet in her day. Set in early S1. Anna/Bates if you squint.

Mr Carson reveals some interesting secrets whilst enjoying a pint at the pub with Mr Bates. Pairings: Carson/Hughes and Anna/Bates.

Anna's miserable evening is brightened up by Mr Bates.

It's the night before Mr. Bates's trial and some of Downton's inhabitants cannot sleep. COMPLETE.

The first five years of their marriage hadn't been easy, but Anna wouldn't change them for the world.

Drabble, John and Anna, early on. First story, so I'm keeping it simple.

After the verdict, Anna finds solace in Mary's friendship and Mary's eyes are opened to a few unpleasant realities of life. Spoilers for the CS.

Alternate universe. John Bates tries to find the path that will lead him to find himself when meets Anna Smith, who is facing serious changes and hard decisions after leaving Downton Abbey.

John Bates has been released from prison but that is only the start of it. Two weeks on and he's finding it harder than he imagined. This is a little angsty take on his homecoming.

Literary banter between Bates and Anna leads to uncharted territory in the Grantham House Library. Set soon after the end of series 1. Fluffy one-shot, no angst really, I'm serious !

S01E04. "It's at that point that he realises the whole undeniable truth, the force of it hitting him like a train at full speed, as though it's a magic trick that has been saved until last for the grand finale: he, John Bates, is in love."

A few weeks after his return to Downton, John decides it's time to discuss the scandal that has kept he and Anna apart.

If he hadn't gone back to Downton, back to her, would she have stuck to their agreement?

After John's arrest, Anna spills all to Mrs. Hughes with her head held high.

Bates and Anna exchange letters during his imprisonment. Post Christmas Special.

On one of her prison visits, John has a request for Anna.

The day she has waited for for so long has finally arrived and change is in the air. But why can't Anna embrace it? A little look inside Anna's head, in 3 parts. First Downton fanfic, all for the absolute wonder that is Team Housemaid/Valet.

Bates' fate hangs in the balance. Will the truth of Vera's death come out before it's too late? Set during Christmas Special. Obviously, A/B pairing. But also some M/M and S/B incorporated.**FINAL CHAPTER IS UP: What is Anna's decision?

Mostly canon drabbles, in no particular order, revolving around Anna. And Mr Bates, of course. Enjoy!

On their wedding night, John watches Anna sleep, marvelling at everything they've overcome so far and pondering their future.

"Somewhere, deep in the weary recesses of her heart, she knows he is not coming back." Two women share a midnight vigil. Mid-season 2.

How exactly does Bates find out about the wedding night Anna has planned for them and what is his reaction? Fluffy one-shot.

Filling the gaps in and around Mr Bates and Anna's wedding. Rating moved up to T, just in case. We are now up to the morning after the night before.

Anna is left a beautiful bouquet of flowers. She, Daisy, and Miss O'Brien attempt to guess who they're from, but it's Mr Bates who holds all of the answers.

Bates negotiates his surrender under Anna's perceptive, healing touch. Follows our pair through much of WWI. Alternating POV. Ch20. The Final Chapter. Thank You! Sometimes predictions and promises just take a while. That's why it's good to be patient.

The space between Robert and Cora widens. Mary and Matthew try to cope with their true desires. Anna is left waiting for the verdict which will decide her husband's fate—and her own. Will the Christmas period prove to be a good one for anyone at Downton Abbey this year?

John Bates is granted his perfect Christmas. Unrealistically fluffy AU.

Written initially as a challenge. Anna and John meet for the first time at Downton and their relationship moves from there. Some strong language.

Bates is a free man and he intends to spend it honouring his wife. *Something to get me through the CS!*

It's Anna's birthday. Involves Happy Family Bates, cake and fluff!

A slight reworking of the near kiss between anna and bates

A look at a relationship I thought was horribly mistreated in Season 2.

Post S2, no spoilers, John is afraid he won't be a good father. Not much of a plot, me indulging myself and written as a challenge for LJ - LoveBelowStairs...and because I can't resist Baby!Fic!

He had lost her. He had pushed her away once too often. Whatever love she had ever held for him, he had ruined it. If only he could ruin his own love, his own longing for her just as effectively. Anna/John and a smidgen of Carson/Hughes. Already AU!

What would Anna have done if Lord Grantham had dispensed with Bates' services? Just how far would she go to be with him? Set after Episode 6 and an alternative way their story could have gone. FINAL CHAPTER NOW UP!

The war brings many changes to Anna's life.

One slip of the tongue can have far reaching consequences...

...run deep. Thomas goes too far and Bates gets to keep a promise, to Anna and everyone else's delight - until Anna realises that sometimes, words CAN mean more than action.

September, 1914: Anna is unusually melancholy, Mr Bates is oddly comforting. Mrs Hughes speaks her mind. Mr Bates uses her words against her.

Sequel to 'A Quiet Man', Bates and Anna are married and this story begins on their Wedding Night.'M' rated with good reason.

In which we explore what Mr. Bates might have pondered as he rode in the hay cart to the Downton Village Flower Show. A one shot.

A story of how, despite everything, the romance develops between Bates and Anna. Starting from the very beginning when John Bates first arrives at Downton. Story continues in 'To Have and to Hold' the 'M' rated sequel

Bates and Anna get a few things straight.

Anna is left wanting after her almost-kiss with Mr. Bates. My first attempt at Downton Abbey fanfic. I welcome any feedback and hope to post more chapters.

He had been gone a week, and now he was back - with some unexpected news.