Servants Series 5

by ss9

Is this happy ever after, for Flora and Walter, Andrew and Rebecca? And will the mystery surrounding George Cosmo's past finally be revealed?

2. Episode 2

Dinner in the dining room is as elaborate as ever, but this does nothing to uplift the subdued mood amongst the aristocrats which is even managing to out-do the misery of breakfast. Even the presence of the vicar, the Reverend Postleberry, fails to rouse enthusiasm for conversation. The more jovial the Earl is becoming, the more frowns on faces intensify and the more wine Lord Julian pours down his throat, demanding a refill from George every few minutes. Lady Caroline barely even notices her husband's slight dependency, preferring to silently glare at her father in the most disapproving of manners; she may be a stuck-up spoiled brat, but she can recognise instantly when her Papa is up to something. Adams stares intently at Rebecca from his position opposite her behind Lord Julian, now an all too familiar situation where he can't take his eyes off her but she can't even raise her head fully to look at him. It breaks his heart to see her so sad, but breaking up with her is for her own good, Hugo will look after her he is sure. Then why does he feel so empty inside? Surely he should feel good with himself for putting her needs before his own? A small voice is telling him that he shouldn't have been so selfish, he is making it easier for himself rather than her, but in the end, after she has gone, what will he be left with? A daughter he can't communicate with properly, debt and a barren soul crying out for its mate. Even through her sadness, Rebecca remains the most beautiful, intelligent and fun-loving woman Adams has ever clapped eyes on and now he has given her and their child up for no other reason than social hierarchy.

Lady Francesca pushes her steak around her plate, almost as if she expects a footman to lean over and cut it up for her rather than using a knife herself, every now and again nudging Lord Montague sharply under the table for slurping his wine too loudly next to her. Apart from a little snort of displeasure, Franny stays silent and sullen, her sister watching her carefully and thinking that she is probably desperate for another good sorting out from a certain valet, who would almost certainly oblige if he knew, whether he was approached by Franny or not. Well, Rebecca muses, they are welcome to each other, like two peas in a pod - she's probably up the duff now by him anyway, my that WOULD be fun, as Rebecca is pretty sure that poor frail Monty hasn't had the guts to go near her sister in an intimate way for a long time.

Rebecca clearing her throat and exclaiming: Francesca, my dear, as you suddenly found far too much to do to see me this afternoon, perhaps we could have our little chat after dinner?

Earl jumping in energetically, carefully watching Hugo: Oh, er, after dinner you say? My dear Rebecca, I was hoping to have the pleasure of your company, maybe a post-dinner drink?

Rebecca raising her eyebrows in surprise: Oh, I see, drinks, well of course, and Hugo I presume?

Earl chortling nervously: Well I was thinking just you and myself, I am sure you will be seeing enough of Hugo once you are married!

Both the Earl and Adams note with interest the silent, knowing glances between Rebecca and Hugo, but neither said a word about secretly breaking off their engagement, having decided on a sham wedding. Hugo smiles weakly at the Earl, who barely acknowledges the Laird's presence, except to keep a close eye on his manner to detect any sign of trouble between the happy couple.

Rebecca nodding, a little concerned at the request: Indeed, I would be delighted to, Algie.

Earl raising his glass to her and smiling, barely able to hide his glee: Oh marvellous, marvellous! Tell me, Rebecca, do you like Taplows?

Rebecca with a fleeting glance in Adams' direction: Of course, it is the most delightful house, and the surrounding countryside is beautiful.

Earl sniffing out a laugh: Much better than the dreariness of Highlands, I have no doubt!

Lord Farquarson coughing loudly and growling: Now, now, my good man, there's nothing wrong with a bit of remoteness! There is much to be said for a good deal of mountains in your back garden, helps one appreciate Scottish beauty.

Earl his eyes swivelling to focus on Rebecca: Oh, I don't need to see mountains to appreciate the beauty of Scotland.

Franny peering at a very pale Julian and shreiking: Julian, my dear, you look absolutely ghastly!

The Earl's eyes reluctantly leave Rebecca and turn in astonishment to see Lord Julian swaying gently in his chair, his eyes popping and rolling as he lets out a loud burp, causing Rebecca to smile for the first time in days. Lady Caroline swivels in her chair to stare at him, a look of deep disgust spread across her delicate features as if it is the first time she has noticed him all dinner time, but Julian fails to even register everyone observing him closely, whether in amusement or not, due to his vision being completely impaired by steady alcohol consumption throughout the day.

Julian slurring and blinking uncontrollably: I think…..I think…..I think I may have hadth a bit tooooooooo muchth to drinkth, one glass of it goes STRAIGHT to my head and……oooh….why is the ceiling sooooooo close?

Franny snorting and smirking, glancing at faces for reaction: I'm not surprised you're drunk, the way you've been bally well putting it away all day!

Over by the door, George and Will are sniggering and exchanging knowing glances, their whole bodies wracked as they try to stifle outright laughter. Adams shoots George and glance, cocking his head towards the door, and with a wink George opens the door a crack and grins broadly when he sees a bored valet leaning against the door, deep in thought. Frank leaps up as the door opens, jumping in shock, but when he sees it is only George tuts and snarls

George indicating to behind the door and whispering: 'ere, mate, think you're needed in here. Looks like he's been at the bottle again!

Frank mutters some expletive under his breath, huffing as if he had been asked to move the whole of Taplows three feet to the right, only George's fixed smirk giving away something distasteful inside the dining room. Ever since Julian had become more and more dependent on the wet stuff, there was a need to have Frank on hand for any unforeseen and unfortunate little incidents. Frank forces his way past George, making sure he crunches firmly on the footman's toes on the way in causing George to wince in pain. The sight that greets him, however, makes him instantly forget about hurting George – suddenly, there are more pressing matters to hand. Julian has begun to retch in his seat, Caroline screeching and leaping out of the way, but fortunately the retch is followed through by another loud burp rather than anything else

Caroline waving her hands in front of her face, almost in tears: Get him away! GET HIM AWAY! He's repulsive, Daddy, I hate him, I HATE HIM!

Rebecca and Hugo are sniggering behind their hands, almost like they used to do as children playing together and laughing at their idiotic parents, while Franny feigns a disapproving glare. Frank dashes forward and hovers awkwardly around his master, not noticing Adams' broad grin at his predicament. Scraping back his chair, Julian staggers backwards, knocking the chair back into two legs and causing it to crash into Frank, smashing into his thighs painfully, a stifled yelp rippling from Frank's lips. For a moment Frank catches Franny's gaze and he can swear that she has a lustful glint in her eyes, but before he can ponder it further Julian sways forward, smashing into his food with a loud crash, Caroline yelling and blubbing as the Earl sits in stunned silence. Frank lunges forward, pulling Lord Julian back by heaving him round the waist, but this had been a rather stupid thing to do – Julian groans loudly, staggering round and lolling into his valet then trying to steady himself.

But just as Frank opens his mouth to speak, to ask his master if he would mind awfully leaving to go to bed, Julian baulks and retches, followed by one long spray of warm, half-digested food right into the valet's face and mouth. For a second or two Frank can only stand in complete and utter shock, George, Will and Adams scrunching their faces up in disgust before grinning and laughing hysterically. Lady Caroline runs out of the room, wailing, while the Earl mutters 'that's disgusting, Julian, pull yourself together!' Frank, meanwhile, lets out a small, horrified whimper, vomit dripping from his nose and cheeks and down his spotless livery, but just as he thought he could move, Julian falls completely onto him, out cold, the last regurgitated bits of food dribbling down Frank's back.

Earl jumping to his feet and slamming his napkin down: Keneally, get him out of here! NOW!

Frank nods slowly, his own dinner churning in his stomach as he tries desperately not to retch and vomit himself, then shoots a desperate glance over to Will and George, who just shake their heads, as if to say 'you're on your own, mate!' Frank spits and wipes his mouth on his sleeve, then walks backwards with Julian flat on top of him, his body weighing down on the valet's shoulders, his arms draped over them and his feet dragging along the floor. Will and George fling the doors open to let them through, still sniggering as tears run down their cheeks, while Adams is hardly able to contain his amusement at the turn of events

Will winking at a humiliated Frank and chuckling: Bad luck, mate! Such a shame! Best get that livery clean, eh? Don't want you stinking of puke around the ladies, now, do we?

Frank hissing vengefully, his face contorted in anger and disgusted fury: Ah ps off, Forest, and go and boil yer privates!

George calling after a struggling and cursing Frank: Give us a shout if you need any help, won't you! Oh, and don't forget to come and clean up your master's mess when he's finally stopped hurling, wouldn't want anyone slipping in it!

Adams appears behind them, smiling broadly over their shoulders as all three watch Julian fall from Frank's arms and onto the floor, where he begins snoring loudly to Frank's utter dismay.

Adams quietly, patting them both on the shoulder: C'mon lads, back to work. Let's leave our little friend to tough it out, shall we? Let him get his hands dirty for a change, the snivelling bag of filth.

Will smiles at Adams, united in their hatred of Frank Keneally, nodding and turning back into the dining room, shutting the doors firmly behind them.

The topic of conversation that night was of course all about Lord Julian. George and Will were telling the story, with the odd help from Adams, who's mood had been momentarily uplifted, ever so slightly, at the prospect of damn Keneally spending his afternoon, looking after the, green around the gills, aristocrat.

Will: God, you should have seen his face, it was hilarious. I haven't seen him looked so horrified since I told him about Jarvis and Mrs Ryan. He snorts, spitting carrots all over the place.

George: And Lady Caroline was screaming her head off, I'm surprised none of you heard her, then you had the Earl and Lady Francesca looking disgusted and Lady Rebecca and Lord Hugo, trying desperately not to laugh. At this Adams swallows, he'd noticed that too, but had chosen to ignore it.

Lizzie: Poor Lord Julian.

Will: It's all the pressure with his little wife. Laughter descends all around the room, slowly dying and everyone glances around at each other, and then the conversation begins again, this time about the absent Johnny and a certain Mrs Stanwick (peacock version)

However George was concentrating on avoiding any eye contact with Grace, who had obviously been trying to catch his eye, all through his and Will's performance. She was whispering with Charlotte about something that causes them to giggle and look up at him. He quickly looked away, why do women have to do that? He was sure they were just trying to make him feel uncomfortable.

However it had the affect on him, Grace had been hoping for as she saw him get up and quickly hurry out of the room, she stood and checking no one was looking, casually followed him out. She saw him nearly at the bottom of the corridor and she sneaked through a door to her right and turning left to run down a corridor, she stopped and quietly opened a door to her left, peering round it she saw him coming. Then just as he was passing she flung the door open and jumped out at him. He jumped, stepping back quickly, but she jumped forward and linked her arm around his'.

Grace: You know George Cosmo, anyone would have thought, you'd been avoiding me.

George: What! No way! I've- I've just been busy. She nods, understandably

Grace: Well I hope you're not busy at the moment as we have to talk about something.

George: R- Really, what about? Suddenly panicking, knowing exactly what she wanted to talk about.

Grace: Oh come on. Beginning to walk, dragging him along with her We can't stay here forever. Time's passing George. We need to make decisions, before it's too late.

George: Yes, of course, but right now? I mean… couldn't we do it tomorrow? Stopping her and stroking the side of her face.

Grace: Oh and then the day after and then day after that! You've been putting this conversation off, I know you have!

George: No! No I haven't. Go on then, lets talk.

Grace: Well, beginning to walk again I was thinking we could leave when you get back from India and we can go back to where you used to live or something. What do you think? Looking up at him for the first time and her smile fades. What? All he had to do was say, yer or something… but he couldn't lie to her… he knew that even though he was waiting for news from Richard, he shouldn't get his hopes up or hers. He knew deep down that it wasn't going to be good news, it was hopeless. George?

George: I'm sorry Grace. Shaking his head and turning.

Grace: What! Running round to his front, stopping him Talk to me George!

George: Just leave it Grace. Trying to walk past her, but she stops him.

Grace: No! I'm not just going to leave it. Lowering her voice, as a few people walk past them, glancing at them. She grabs his arm and drags him into a room, close by, slamming the door shut and turning to glare at him. Why the sudden change of heart? You seem right up for the whole idea!

George: I'm sorry, I shouldn't have told you that in the first place.

Grace: What! Why!

George: It's not possible Grace.

Grace: It is-

George: It's not gonna happen! She falls silent and backs away from him and he makes for the door, but she stops him again Grace-

Grace: I want an explanation! No! I demand an explanation! He doesn't say anything Is it me? Nothing It is! Isn't it! She gasps and he shakes his head

George: No, it isn't. Believe me, you are the last problem. she sniffs

Grace: Then tell me. He shakes his head You can tell me anything. Please. For a moment, he considered telling her, but the words wouldn't come out, she'd never believe the whole thing was an accident, no one would, he doubted whether Richard truly believed that the whole thing had been an accident.

George: Look Grace please. Just let me go! She shakes her head.

Grace: Not until you tell me why! He doesn't say anything and she walks towards him. If you love me, you can tell me anything? taking his hands in hers, but his silence, brings tears to her eyes. You… don't love me then. swallowing and he looks up at her You don't want me. then she raises her voice, it turning harsh. All I was to you was some stupid girl, you wanted to have your way with! He still doesn't say anything, preferring to stare at the wall and she lets go of his hands, the tears beginning to roll down her cheeks Well it's a good job I found out now, what you are like!

George: Grace, please- laying his hands on her arms, but she shakes his hands off.

Grace: Don't touch me! Don't come anywhere near me ever again! I really thought you were different George, but it's clear that you are just another Frank Keneally or William Forest aren't you? He looks down ashamed And no one, NO ONE! Has ever made me feel as… cheap in my life, as you just have… He tries to get past her again, but she stops him again. You disgust me.

He couldn't listen to anymore and pushes forcefully past her, almost knocking her off her feet, and flinging the door runs down the corridor, not giving her a second glance. He runs round the corner and up some stairs. Stopping to get his breath back, he leans back against the wall, sighing to himself, before sliding to the floor in despair. He did want her… he loved her! He wanted to be able to say yes and for them to marry and leave Taplows, but he knew he couldn't break the barrier between Taplows and the outside world. Taplows was his hideout, his protection and he couldn't risk that safety. He knew that the second they left, he would get wind of him and would come after him, he couldn't do that to Grace. They couldn't spend there whole life on the run... no! She'd get over it, she'd have too. She'll find someone else and she can have everything she ever wanted with him, it wasn't fair that he put all his problems on her.

A short while after the whole 'blasted Julian fiasco', as the Earl would refer to it for weeks to come, the aristocrats had at least found themselves able to eat their deserts without feeling too queasy (apart from Lady Rebecca, who's problem had hardly been brought on by Julian of all people), and now are entertaining themselves in the drawing room. Even Lady Caroline has come back from sobbing to grace them with her presence, although that had mainly been due to her intoxicated husband being sprawled right across their bed, snoring and dribbling into his pillow.

The Earl, building up the courage to remind Rebecca that he wishes to see her in private, requests jovially right under Adams' nose that she sing for them, with Monty accompanying her on the pianoforte. Lady Francesca purses her lips sourly at this suggestion, her sister once again being the centre of attention, but refrains from uttering a word as she places herself and the numerous skirts of her evening gown next to the Earl, who is beaming in delight.

Sighing, Rebecca glances at Adams by the door as she moves over to the piano, Monty flicking his tails out behind him as he settles himself on the stool and tinkles briefly with the keys. Adams had heard her singing before; she always loved to sing when he was at Highlands, he could hear her beautiful voice ringing through the house, although she loved mainly to sing softly to herself while parading in the gardens. She had only ever sung for him once, privately, and that was the day he decided to give up gambling and wasting his money for good. It had been a beautiful late summer day the previous year, as they kissed and walked together lazily along the hillside, even though he had only originally gone to take her her afternoon tea. Well, that's what he had told the other staff, anyhow.

Adams' heart skips a beat when she begins to sing, the very same song she had sung for him on that day – a romantic notion about how love can conquer all, a rendition she had heard during a rather musical version of Romeo and Juliet once. But although her words are full of joy, and her voice as uplifting and sweet as ever, her tone is one of sorrow and her eyes begin to fill with tears as she locks her stare with his. For a moment, Adams can hardly force himself to look away from Rebecca the natural performer, with all the grace, charm and looks of a stage beauty. Oh, how he secretly still loves and adores his Lady. Her tears, which she manages to blink back, would only seem to others as adding to the passion of the song, but eventually Adams breaks their gaze to look at the Earl's awe-filled expression and the tear trickling down Hugo's face.

A bloody tear, for God's sake! Must be all that being in touch with his inner feelings nonsense, Adams muses, the likes of him, including a certain chef, seem to enjoy going over the top about absolutely everything – what the hell does Hugo have to cry about anyway, getting to marry a woman like her!

After the song, during which Rebecca completely fails to notice anyone but the under-butler, polite applause ripples throughout the room, even Franny able to manage a dainty tapping of her hand and a sickeningly false smile.

Rebecca smiles faintly, curtseying daintily as the Earl rises to his feet, blushing furiously. Adams pours Lord Hamilton-Hussey a brandy, but keeps one eye on Rebecca as the Earl takes her aside and mutters something to her. Nodding, she glances over his shoulder at a sullen Hugo and follows him out of the room, right under the beady stare of Lady Francesca. Adams clatters down the brandy decanter in an unexpectedly sudden panic and with a shifty glance around the room follows them out quietly to where Joe and Fred are on duty

Fred looking over at Adams and noticing his wide-eyed distraction: Everything alright, Andrew? Don't tell me another one of them has thrown up, this time all over the Persian rug!

Adams hardly hearing, stepping forward and glancing around: Hmm?

Fred leaning in behind Adams: Earth to Andrew Adams – anybody there?

Adams swinging round and glaring at the footman: Did you see where his Lordship and Lady Rebecca went together? Come on, quickly!

Fred shrugging and shaking his head: Not sure, in the direction of the library, I think. Looked a bit cosy if you ask me, if you didn't know she was engaged to the blessed Hugo you'd think that they had a bit of a romance going on, so if you ask me I'd stay well away from them, give them some privacy…….

Adams rushing back up to Fred, his face contorted in anger: Well I didn't ask you, so shut your mouth Matkin and get in there and serve that lot their drinks while I go and watch over the Earl, or you'll be smirking on the other side of your Goddamn face!

Adams snorts and stalks off, leaving Fred to catch Joe's stare and roll his eyes in exasperation. Pausing outside the library, the under-butler glances shiftily around before sliding up against the door to listen through it to the other side, but to his dismay all he can hear are quiet, muffled voices until Lord Hamilton-Hussey and Lord Farquarson can be heard heading towards him. Quickly, he pulls away from the door as the two aristocrats stop a few metres away from him, chatting and gafawing about the state of British politics and the growing strength of the Empire. Damn it, he thinks, screaming 'ps off, you stupid toffs!' in his mind, but all the willing in the world fails to shift them and their musings, leaving Adams helpless and frustrated.

Inside the library, and Lady Rebecca has already glanced at the clock twice. The Earl had poured her a drink with something a little more potent than she is used to, handing it to her and smiling satisfactorily as he babbles on about the unusual ghastliness of the weather considering the delightful location of Taplows. After a minute or two, the Earl moves over to the fireplace and there is a rather long lapse in conversation as Rebecca busies herself with smoothening down her skirts and feigning an interest in the cover of a book next to her about the eccentricities of modern man, or some such drivel. After a moment, Rebecca places her obviously untouched drink on the table and breathes in deeply, the grandfather clock ticking noisily behind her, and opens her mouth to utter some words about the hunting season being particularly poor that year, but the unobservant Earl coughs loudly

Earl pacing by the fireplace and barking gruffly: You're a very attractive woman you know,

Rebecca. I'm sure you've got a mighty fine pair of legs under all those skirts and whatnot!

Rebecca her jaw dropping open in shock: Well….well thank you for the compliment, Algie, I, er…..

But suddenly, by the window not far from where the Earl is standing, there is a soft rustling sound and a strange movement from behind the heavily patterned closed curtain. Rebecca turns her head and stares, but the Earl just waves his hand towards it dismissively, obviously desperate to get back to the issue at hand

Earl shrugging and refilling his already empty glass: Don't worry, probably just Monty making a nuisance of himself again.

Rebecca moving further back into her chair: Monty! Why would he be behind the curtain, unless to hide from my sister's vulgarity!

Earl snorting and howling in laughter: No, no, I mean Monty, one of the hounds! Always getting himself into scrapes, it's a wonder he's survived this long. Anyway back to what I was saying, I am sorry if I was so open, I meant to really say that I am delighted you enjoy Taplows so much.

Rebecca draws her eyes away from the curtain, thinking no more of it, a much more pressing matter to hand. To Rebecca, this all seems a little strange and definitely not the done thing – a widowed man asking to see an engaged lady in private, then behaving so very strangely and saying the most inappropriate things to her. Oh, this is all she needs right now, some old coot coming on to her, obviously trying to get his leg over, just at her most vulnerable. If only he knew that she is pregnant by his under-butler! Damn silly fool. And why doesn't he stop pacing about and fiddling nervously with his jacket pocket, if he carries on like this she feels she will have no choice but to stand up and walk out.

Earl avoiding any sort of eye contact with Rebecca: Is there any particular reason you find Taplows so agreeable? Any…..well…..person?

Rebecca daintily placing her hand to her chest and raising her eyebrows: Oh, Algie, I'm not quite sure what you mean, everyone here is delightful…..

Earl nodding emphatically: Yes, yes, but is there anyone who you may delight in seeing more than others? That you may secretly admire or even…..desire?

Oh please Lord no, he doesn't know about Andrew, surely not, Rebecca thinks in panic. Moving slightly forward in her seat, she shakes her head at the Earl and smiles weakly, the words catching in her throat. But if he had found out about them, she convinces herself, then he wouldn't bring her in here, he would just sack Andrew and leave Hugo to deal with her, so it can't be that, he must be trying to get at something else, he must mean…….no, surely he can't mean….himself!

Earl Collapsing on his knees and staring up at her alarmed expression: Are you completely sure, Rebecca – my sweet, sweet girl, that you do not find anyone in this house attractive!

Rebecca her eyes wide, not knowing whether to laugh, cry or vomit again: Well to my knowledge…..sir….the only residing male in this house apart from currently Julian is you, and I'm afraid I don't……I can't……!

Earl snatching up her hand, his eyes pleading: But Rebecca you are so adorable and beautiful – oh, and healthy - everything I could want in a wife……

Rebecca jumping to her feet, almost knocking the Earl backwards: A WIFE, my Lord! But I'm engaged to Hugo, I'm flattered of course, but…..!

Earl clambering awkwardly to his feet and delving into his pocket: I know but he is no good for you! Look, I have a ring, Lady Rebecca Farquarson, will you do me the honour of marrying me?

Rebecca panic rising in her chest, the Earl flipping open a velvet box: But this is all so sudden Algie, I can't think, my mind is

Earl blocking the door to stop her path, lowering his voice to almost a whisper: Please, before you give an answer, just hear me out. Ever since you came to Taplows, I have been thinking hard about my future and how I wish to spend it. I am not as young as I was, and I am increasingly becoming aware of my age, but you make me feel young again, and alive, in a way I have never felt before. I will not deny that I am in love with you, and had hoped in time that that love could be returned on your part, but if not then I will still be a loving, caring husband and I can provide you with anything you want, now I have my money back.

Rebecca looking at him with desperate sympathy: But money can't buy everything, I will have other needs, other wants, things I know you will never ever be able to give me

Earl snapping the lid shut, his face reddening futher: Are you telling me Hugo will be able to give you those things too! I'm not blind, Rebecca, I can see what that man is, and I am pretty certain of the one thing he will be unable to give you, no matter how hard he tries!

Rebecca her hand flying up to her mouth as she gasps: But how could you know….!

Earl interrupting forcefully: A nice Georgian nest of tables, that's what! The only one of their kind – he wouldn't know a half decent antique if one stood up in his soup! And that's not all, I've seen the way he stares at you, it's all lust with him I can tell, not a gentleman at all, a creature of your delicacy needs respect not some rascal staring at your particulars!

If the tragedy of the situation hadn't dawned on Rebecca, then she may have burst out laughing at his insinuations towards Hugo and his sheer hypocritical ignorance, but no she has to stay calm and hear him out – although something at the back of her mind is telling her that maybe, just maybe, a union with the Earl of Taplow could solve all her problems – well not all of them, obviously, but if it meant she could be near Andrew, then she is sure that she could spend as little time in her marital bed chamber as possible, just enough time of course so she could pretend to him that nature had taken its course, before secretly rushing off to her lover's arms while her unsuspecting husband had his afternoon nap. If they married quickly – very quickly – then she is sure she could convince him that the child is his and not anyone else's, although of course if he were to suspect anyone he would suspect Hugo over his under-butler, but thinking about having to spend a little time with the Earl in a more intimate respect is a prospect she would rather not consider at this moment or any moment for that matter.

And how could she do this to Hugo, and to Andrew? But Andrew had finished with her, in the most callous of ways, he wouldn't care surely who she married, not any more, although would he like the idea of the Earl – his master – bringing up his son as the heir to the Taplows title and estate? And she would feel such a hypocrite, marrying a man she doesn't care for as a wife should when she has already told Hugo she only wished to marry for love.

How would she explain her decision to him? Her reasons – that maybe, just possibly Andrew would love her again if she were near to him every day, and that it would be wonderful bringing her child up in a place she fell in love with the moment she stepped out of her carriage – seem rather weak when thought about rationally. She can't bear the thought of losing Hugo's friendship, but as if to prompt her decision, the Earl in his desperation blurts out his most prominent reason for wanting to marry a woman so much in her prime

Earl pouring himself his third brandy and knocking it back in one: Of course, as I say, I'm not getting any younger and there will come a time when…..now that little Harry has passed away, God rest his soul, I am bereft of anyone to inherit the title, and I don't hold out that much hope for Caroline and Julian considering his drunkenness, and I'll be damned if that wayward nephew of mine in Canada gets a penny, running off with the circus for pity's sake! Do you see what I'm saying?

Rebecca glancing down at her stomach and placing a hand on it protectively: Oh yes, I see very well, you need a son, and I completely understand your predicament, but……

Earl hanging his head and shakily placing the ring back in his pocket: You need time, obviously, I can tell, I shouldn't be forcing you into a decision, you need to consider it so I will leave you alone to think about it.

Rebecca stepping towards him and momentarily shutting her eyes: I don't need to think about it, I've already reached a decision.

Smiling, the Earl raises his head and collapses into a chair, obviously fearing the worst as she can't have given it much thought at all. Rebecca remains standing, her face expressionless except for a small tear which had worked its way to the rim of her eye, sitting there just waiting to fall. With a sigh, she turns her face towards the fire to watch the flames flickering and dancing brightly

Earl reaching out to take her hand: Well? My dear? What is your answer?

Rebecca gulping, her nerves shredded and voice shaking in emotional shock: This is the hardest decision of my life. I feel so beastly, really I do, I'm such an awful person, but my answer is final, Algie. I don't love you, and I doubt I ever will, my heart belongs to another.

Earl desperately trying to keep his patience: Yes, yes, Hugo I know, but does that mean 'no'? Rebecca?

After dinner true to his word both the butler and the housekeeper retired to his pantry to await the arrival of Emily once she had finished decorating pies with Felix. However if the butler had expected a comfortable and quiet half an hour or so then he was sorely mistaken, from the moment they had walked through the door and Flora had closed it behind her it had been a non-stop barrage of questions and provocation from his fiancé.

"Alright Alright Woman you win I'll tell you what he said, but for pity's sake will you stop doing that!" Walter finally exclaimed clasping his hands over his ears for affect as a smug Flora Ryan leant away from him and moved to rise from his lap, but on seeing this the butler quickly wrapped his arms round her waist to prevent her from leaving. Graciously Flora allowed him to hold her close an expectant look on her beautiful face.

"Fine but no interrupting! Not one word!" Walter demanded, to which Flora nodded demurely, seeming to imply as if she would do such a thing.

"Well I managed to see the Earl directly after breakfast… He began automatically reverting to storyteller mode.

"I know that…!" Flora cut in exasperated, which earned her a stern look from the Butler, "Sorry, do please continue." She added reluctantly after a few minutes of stony silence from Walter.

"As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted I secured an appointment with the Earl although he seemed far from happy about it I can tell you! And I can honestly say I have never been so nervous in all my life, I mean talking to the Earl and trying to persuade him to do what is the most sensible course action is difficult enough, but trying to persuade him to do what you want him to, now that take real skill…." He paused, waiting for some cutting remark from Flora, as he could tell by her face she was really struggling to stay quiet.

"Did you have something you wanted to add Flora my dear?" He asked teasingly, openly baiting her but the housekeeper stayed true to her word and simply shook her head.

"Very well then. Well he sat down behind his desk and shuffled with his papers, not even bothering to look at me and then he huffed a bit before bawling 'Well for heavens sake man you wanted this meeting and dragged me away from my guests for it so out with it!' I was naturally cautious about how to broach the subject and so I politely informed him that it was a personal matter it concerns Mrs Ryan and myself and then do you know what he said?" Walter asked rhetorically, and Flora shook her head once more in her impatience to know their fate.

"He said 'Don't tell me you're actually going to do the right thing at last and make an honest woman out of her?'" Walter stopped suddenly as Flora gasped out loud, her pledge of silence forgotten in the face of the Earl's revelation.

"He knew, but how could he?" She asked desperate to know the answer.

"Apparently he's known for ages, I even think he thinks it's been going on longer that it actually has, he made some comment about Butler's interfering in housekeeper's appointments and rendezvous' during garden parties in Orangery's." Walter replied being deliberately vague realising he had almost slipped up and revealed parts of their past that he believed Flora to be unaware of.

"Well the Orangery I can understand after all you did drag me in there and even I was very surprised when no one seemed to notice but how could he know about the other, I mean I didn't even know you had interfered until recently?" Flora added.

"You know, how..?" He exclaimed.

"Hmmm why don't you guess, who could you possibly have told about your encounter with flying poultry based ammunition?" Flora replied teasingly, tugging at the edge of his neck tie to emphasise her words.

"Mother!" Walter growled. "Can that woman keep nothing to herself?"

"Oh darling don't be angry with her, personally I think it's such a romantic story." Flora said placating nuzzling into his chest and playing with the buttons on his waistcoat.

"Oh alright, since you aren't angry at me for interfering. I'd never done that before you know, exploited my influence to get an acquaintance a position, I never had thought it proper but when I saw you again after all those years something just made me do it; it didn't take much, the Earl was already impressed and so I just gave him a little nudge. I said how I had heard along the grapevine what a hard worker you were and that this wasn't the only other position you'd applied for so if he didn't snatch you up soon it would be too late."

"Walter Corey you dirty rotten liar, this was the only place I had applied for!" Flora retorted giggling as she playfully punched his arm.

"Well I didn't know that, so technically I wasn't lying I was simply suffering from an absence of information." Walter replied. "But back to today and my discussion with the Earl, well as you can imagine I was stunned and I must have stood there for several minutes my mouth opening and closing like a fish in water but no words would come out. That amused his lordship and he had a good laugh at my expense whilst I regained my senses. Then he barked out, 'So what has it got to do with me?' And of course I replied telling him that we wanted his permission and if it is possible we would both like to retain our positions afterwards. For a moment or two he ummd and arrrd and I was certain he'd tell me it was out of the question but then he simply nodded adding 'Well it's not like I can do without either of you, who else would be available to organise the trip to India at such short notice let alone be ready to leave the country in a matter of weeks." Walter trailed off seeing the look of pure joy on Flora's face.

"You mean it he really said yes, we can get married and stay at Taplows?" Flora asked nervously convinced that this couldn't be happening.

"Yes he did, I give you my word on it…" But Walter didn't have time to finish his sentence as an ecstatic Flora flung her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately.

After a few moments the jubilant pair separated Walter leaning down to place tender kisses on the tip of Flora's nose and along her cheek. "So did he say anything else?" Flora asked eventually.

"Well yes actually, after I had thanked him profusely he started to go on about finding us different quarters as there is no way one of our rooms would be big enough for us both, although he did make some passing comment about how he's sure we'd found ways to manage in the past! He's left it up to us to sort that out, but he did instruct me to make sure our rooms were separate from the rest of the staff, apparently he doesn't want us leading by example."

"Rooms?" Flora asked puzzled.

"Ah well I asked him that too, and he retorted with a brief guffaw that nature has a way of taking its own course and after a while we might need room to expand, he even made some bizarre muttered comment that it would be good to have more children around wouldn't want the little lad to get lonely…" Walter trailed off deep in thought his mind wandering back to the question of the Earls intentions towards Lady Rebecca as surely he must have been referring to a possible child of his own?

"Oh Walter that's wonderful, now the Earls agreed it makes everything so much more settled not to mention its another thing that that monster Keneally doesn't have over us!" Flora exclaimed delighted and jolting Jarvis back from his own musings.

"Yes it is and he's even getting us a wedding present." Walter added a slight smile pulling at the side of his mouth as he recalled the exchange in the Earls office.

"May I ask what?"

"A double bed, apparently their more convenient for co-habiting partners." Walter replied chuckling to himself. "He even commented that I'd better instruct the supplier to order one with strong springs…."

"Walter you're fibbing I bet he said nothing of the sort!" Flora retorted blushing bright scarlet at the thought that the Earl knew that much about their goings on.

"As if I would!" Jarvis retorted pretending to be offended by her accusation. "So are there any other questions Madam would like answering?"

At this Flora smiled broadly and snuggled up against Walter. "Well now you come to mention it… Why don't you tell me what was the first thing you noticed about me all those years ago?"

"Your lousy aim!" Jarvis retorted.

"Ahhhh now I know that's not true because according to your mother…."

"Remind me to kill her when she finally arrives!" Walter interjected.

"Walter be nice it was thanks to her that…." Flora trailed off leaning forward and whispering something unprintable in the butler's ear that made him smile saucily and even a faint touch of colour enter his cheeks. "You see she does do some good!" Flora added out loud when she sat back into his embrace.

"For once you have a point." He agreed grudgingly, "but personally I am far more interested in what we'll get up to tonight, after all you did promise to be good in order to find out in advance!"

Smiling dangerously, an almost feral glint in her eye that made Walter feel suddenly un-nerved Flora reached into her pocket and withdrew a folded piece of paper which she waved provocatively under the butler's nose for a few moments before curiosity got the better of him and he snatched it out of her grasp. Opening it quickly it didn't take long before the Butler's eyes widened in shock, "How did you?" he began but was cut off when Flora leant forward to kiss him once more.

Pulling away Flora smiled smugly and prised the paper out from Walter's fingers, before folding it neatly and placing it back in her pocket. "Oh that is elementary my dear Walter, since I got to choose last time and it was my place of choice, I admit my curiosity to find out what was in yours got the better if me and so I retrieved the paper from my desk the next day."

"So you mean it? You really mean we can….in there?" He blurted out his brain finding it difficult to assimilate what she was saying.

Chuckling slightly at his continued disbelief Flora leant forward and whispered softly in his ear. "We certainly can, although really Walter I do have to ask why the Earl's study of all places?

"You'll just have to wait and see love!" Walter replied cryptically as he pulled the love of his life back into his arms determined to make up for all the years they had lost.

Cut back to the library

The Earl is staring at Rebecca in disbelief, his eyes wide in amazement as he grips the arms of his chair, forcing himself out of it so he can stagger over to the drinks cabinet again with a mind to draining the rest of the brandy straight from the bottle in one long gulp. Lady Rebecca falls, bereft, into her chair, hardly able to believe what she had just said – but she had said it for good reason, reasons only she would know, and it is the best decision for her and her child under the circumstances. So why does she feel so empty and without hope? Snatching up her drink she downs it – well, what the hell, she needed it and one drink wouldn't do any harm!

Earl gripping the bottle and turning back to her, his entire body shaking: C…can you repeat what you just said? Just so I know I heard properly?

Rebecca the tears welling up uncontrollably in her eyes: I – I said yes, I accept. I will marry you. You should set a date as soon as possible.

The Earl places the bottle back down, thinking it best not to drink excessively and show Julian-like tendencies in front of his new fiancée for fear of frightening her away. How sweet, he thinks, she is even shedding a tear she is so happy at her decision. A very sensible woman, this Scottish beauty. Slowly and cautiously, without a word, he moves towards her, then bends down, his parted lips heading straight towards hers. Thinking quickly, Rebecca slides backwards then with a mild yelp ducks under his outstretched arm and leaps out of her chair, hurrying across the carpet to the settee by the window as the Earl falls flat on his face into her vacated chair

Rebecca folding her arms protectively, her voice shrill with fright: Er, Algie, I really think we should wait for this, it's a bit soon, after the wedding yes, I think, but until then I'm afraid not! I am an inexperienced, chaste virgin and I promised my mother on her deathbed that I would be deflowered only on my wedding night! I am afraid I am ignorant when it comes to men, I hardly know one end from the other, let alone what to do with any of it!

Rebecca can hear herself wittering on nervously as she thinks 'shut up, you stupid, silly woman!' to herself but still the blatant lies spill from her lips in a desperate attempt to keep her new husband-to-be well away from her for as long as necessary. The Earl, slightly stunned by this rather frank outburst, regains his composure and steps towards her, grinning broadly. Oh hell, Rebecca panics, he's not buying it in the slightest, it's not bloody working!

The Earl closing in on her, backing her towards the side of the settee: Yes of course I will wait, my darling, although it will be difficult! But you won't deny your future husband a little kiss, though, will you? I presume it won't be your first time for that!

He takes her hand and raises it to her lips before sliding on the beautiful, gleaming diamond ring – almost a perfect fit. Rebecca can't help her face creasing in disgust, a creeping feeling of nausea spreading up from her stomach and her skin prickling in repulsion not pleasure as the Earl's wet lips work their way up her bare arm. She looks away, trying to pretend it isn't happening – somehow, even the touch of Frank when he was trying to rape her seemed less abhorrent than being kissed by this poor, desperate aristocrat with the weight of hereditary responsibility bearing down on his shoulders. She tries to convince herself that years of tradition and social expectancy has driven him to this, yes his desire for marriage and the inevitable sexual relations with her is all to do with duty, obviously nothing else on his part. But it is no good, the more he kisses her, the closer he gets to her face, the louder his animalistic growls of lust become, the closer Lady Rebecca gets to 'doing a Julian' and vomiting in his face

Rebecca Shutting her eyes tight and shrieking in desperation: But I'm still engaged to Hugo, at least wait till then!

Earl sliding his arm around her (thankfully still) tight waist and pulling her in: Oh, do I have to? You're so….desirable!

The Earl sees his chance and lunges at her, kissing her passionately and with such force Rebecca can hardly breathe through instant shock and being generally smothered – she feels as if her entire head has somehow found itself inside his mouth his tongue is so far down her throat. Gagging, she tries to push him off, forcing herself backwards, but instead of finding her feet stepping onto carpet her heels catch on something behind her, causing her to lose her balance and topple right over it and then go flying backwards over the arm of the settee. Without thinking, she reaches out to try in vain to stabilise herself, grabbing the Earl by his jacket and wrenching him forward, pulling him on top of her while her legs fly up revealing her petticoats and stockings. Before either can react, except for another scream of fright from Rebecca, the Earl flat on top of the future Countess of Taplow, a shrill but weak voice pipes up from down the side of the settee – from the exact area where Rebecca had tripped, in fact:

'Ooh, my son, finally engaged! How marvellous, wait till I tell your father!'

A short while earlier outside the library door, Lady Hamilton-Hussey sweeps passed her husband, calling out unusually loudly down the hallway, emphasising certain words, that she is on her way to bed with rather a BANGING headache COMING on. Her husband barely smiles at her but nods as she feigns a nod and a glances over her shoulder, as if expecting someone to be not too far behind her, then makes her way towards the main staircase, a rather buoyant spring in her step for someone with a BANGING headache. Anyone could see, even a lowly under-butler, that the Hamilton-Hussey marriage is most certainly on the diamond-encrusted rocks, so instead of following his wife to check she isn't suffering, Monty asks Lord Farquarson to join him for a cigar in the orangery, and to Adams' relief he agrees. But just as he has got rid of one distraction, who should shiftly appear but none other than Frank Keneally, without a speck of vomit in sight. He smiles smugly to himself and rubs his hands together in obvious satisfaction, but on seeing Adams he can't help but saunter up to him – catching Adams on his own and therefore being able to taunt him in private is a rare thing so how could he turn down such a perfect opportunity?

Adams gritting his teeth and jutting out his chin: What the hell do you want, Keneally?

Frank his lips curling into a wry smile as he shrugs: Ah, yer know, just thought I'd check on how the lovely Rebecca is doing.

Adams staring down his nose disapprovingly: She's very well, no thanks to you.

Frank raising his eyebrows and snorting: Really? I had heard otherwise, that since the other night she hasn't been near you. Anyway you of all people know what these aristos are like, how frustrated they get - I'm on my way upstairs to go and give Lady Francesca what she's been desperate for for days.

Adams throwing his head back in sarcastic laughter: What? A sense of decency and self-respect?

Frank glaring at Adams and moving dangerously close to him: Oh you think you're so smart don't you, although not shrewd enough to become butler I notice! Well this'll wipe that smugness off you're face, I may be doing tubby Franny but I'll be thinking about your bit of posh the whole time, that slender body, what I could've done with her if you hadn't shown up and ruined it, and you can't do a damn thing about it! How pathetic!

Adams sizing Frank up and grimacing: I know she's pretty low, but YOU – I don't know how she can bear to be near you, knowing what you've done!

Frank hissing furiously, his face contorted in fury: She doesn't know about the other night, and she never will, alright! Don't you breathe a word, or you know what I'll do, and what will happen to you!

Quick as a flash, without thinking Adams raises his fist, but Frank's reaction is too fast and he catches it, stopping the full force of the blow

Frank crunching down on Adams' knuckles: Just you try it. Make my day!

Adams finally lowering his arm, his body wracked with anger: Your master is so out of it most of the time he won't remember what you've told him! Do what you like to the Hamilton-Hussey marriage, but come near Rebecca again and I'll snap that scrawny little neck of yours with my bare hands, I swear to God!

Frank suddenly losing his annoyance and smiling broadly: Oh don't worry, I've no plans for HER any more. I've other things to do, other fish to fry, so calm down mate, I'll not be bothering you again. Now, I'd best get up those stairs and find my plaything, who knows she might even pay me again!

Frank winks at Adams, patting him on the arm then walking away, whistling and grinning like the cat who got the cream, but the under-butler stays silent, watching him, completely revolted by his sheer audacity and lack of remorse. For a while, he had forgotten about the Rebecca situation in the library, but suddenly – jolting him quickly back to reality - Adams just about hears the cry from inside and his heart begins to thump as wildly as it did the night of Frank's attack. He reaches subtly behind him and grabs the door handle, twisting it firmly then backing into the room, keeping a close eye out for a rogue Hamilton-Hussey or valet heading his way. Quickly Adams turns around, and gasps in stunned surprise at a sight he certainly had hoped he would not see, although Lady Mary's presence somehow hadn't placed itself in his image.

His Lord and master is spread-eagled on top of his one true love, her skirts hitched up and her legs dangling and waving over the arm of the settee, while her face is contorted into a look of sheer, utter horror. Lady Mary is stood not far from her son, hunched over and smiling happily, clapping her hands together in glee and crying joyfully. Adams' eyes dart from the Earl and Lady Rebecca, to Lady Mary, then back again, trying to make sense of what the hell is going on

Adams mumbling weakly as Rebecca stares at him pleadingly: Sir…I heard a scream, and naturally I……

Earl scrambling backwards off Rebecca, his face plum red in fury: MOTHER! What in God's precious name are you doing in here! And why where you down there, although I doubt I'll get a satisfactory answer!

Rebecca hurries to hide her modesty, scrambling upright and brushing down her skirts, touching her stomach through a natural protective reaction to check she is alright otherwise. It is only then that she turns her attention to the craziness that is her future mother-in-law in her dressing gown, not sure whether her timely appearance was a blessed relief or had just made things worse

Lady Mary wrapping her small frame around her son and hugging him: I was hiding from your father, when I heard you talking to this lovely girl – what is your name, dear, I'm not sure I've seen you before? My, you're pretty, my boy has struck lucky with you!

Lady Mary reaches out and cups Rebecca's hot, flushed face and smiles, showing a row of missing teeth. Rebecca almost grimaces back, not wanting to be here, in the library, with mad old Mary and a fiancé old enough to be her father (although it does occur to her fleetingly that Andrew is pretty old, so the whole old enough to father her line hardly works in her case). Suddenly, a breathless Mrs Diggins appears in the doorway and shoots a fleeting look of concern at Adams, then at his Lordship who appears so furious that the lady's maid fears that he may send his old mother to Bedlam or somewhere equally abhorrent.

Mrs Diggins hurrying over to Lady Mary: Oh, your Lordship, I am so sorry, I don't know how she got in here, one minute I was preparing her bath, the next she had disappeared from her bedroom and I have been all over the house searching for her for nearly !

Earl wrenching off his mother and pushing her towards Mrs Diggins: Mother you are quite insane! What on earth do you mean, you were hiding from father! You'll be hiding for a bloody long time as he's DEAD!

Lady Mary her frail face falling in confusion: But….I saw him, before – I told myself to go and find him, before I had my bath and went to bed, and I did! I did, my dear! I went for a walk, and I saw him in the servants quarters, looking even more handsome and dapper than I remember, but he was talking to a lady so I became quite upset and thought I would hide, then he'd realise how badly he has been treating me lately!

Earl his moustache bristling in a very walrus-like manner: You went to the servants quarters! Why would you go to such a place!

Lady Mary tears springing in her eyes: I became lost and disorientated, but your father didn't even notice me, he just kept talking to the lady, in a manner I found most inappropriate!

Adams coughing and stepping forward: Pardon me, my Lady, but did the lady you refer to have black hair and was she wearing a blue dress?

Lady Mary nods faintly, but the Earl huffs loudly and barges past Adams, roughly escorting his mother by her arm to the door as Mrs Diggins waddles hurriedly behind them.

Earl glancing back towards a bereft Rebecca: I have told you so many times and still you won't listen, that is NOT my father, but Jarvis, the BUTLER! Father is dead, I am the Earl, and Lady Rebecca is to be my wife – the new Countess – and as soon as I can I will put you out of sight forever, do you hear me! You're scaring her off, she doesn't want a batty old widow saying ridiculous things following her around, confusing her!

Through the distraction, nobody except Rebecca sees the under-butler stagger backwards slightly, blinking in shock and bewilderment at what the Earl had just said. No, it's madness, he's being presumptive, assumes Adams. She won't have said yes, knowing the Earl he just didn't listen, won't take no for an answer, well surely Hugo will put him straight even if Rebecca can't!

Lady Mary tears falling from her bloodshot eyes as Mrs Diggins comforts her: If your brother was here……!

Earl lowering his voice to a spiteful hiss: Well he's not, so do not speak of him…..!

Rebecca moving off the settee and touching the Earl's arm: Algie, leave her be, you're upsetting her. Let her have her bath, I'm sure Mrs Diggins will look after her now, so don't fret.

The Earl's face calms and he smiles and nods at Rebecca, patting her hand and indicating to Mrs Diggins to take Lady Mary away, which she does without a word. As usual, notes Adams with sadness, Rebecca won't look him in the eye yet, but he supposes he can't really blame her - but for the first time she looks openly guilty, her eyes lowered to the floor in quiet contemplation. The Earl steps towards Adams, a large grin spreading across his lips, and leans in to whisper

Earl: Right, Adams, I have an announcement to make! You're right, though, she is a fiery one!

Rebecca suddenly looking up, panic across her dainty face: We can't announce it yet, I need to talk to Hugo yet, tell him………

Earl heading out of the door: Ah, right, of course. Well, I'm off to have a secret celebratory brandy in the drawing room, fetch that Forest will you Adams, I want him to serve me!

The Earl marches off, whistling to himself, leaving Rebecca standing forlornly in front of her ex-lover, her head still hanging. Adams slams the door and closes his eyes, opening his mouth to speak but finding no words coming out shuts it again and opens his eyes to stare at her as her admission that the news is true slowly sinks in

Rebecca her voice so soft and quiet she can just be heard: Andrew, I'm sorry. I am to marry him, and not Hugo. I can't explain right now, I can't, but you abandoned me, and everything changed……..

Adams cracks appearing in his shaking voice: So……it is my fault; MY FAULT, you've agreed to marry and thus have intimacies with the bloody Earl! Hugo not grand enough for you any more is that it? Does Taplows have one more bedroom than his humongous castle or something, so you thought the more status the better!

Rebecca begging tears streaming down her flushed face: You know I'm not like that, it's nothing to do with status, it's to do with what I want for me and for our baby!

Adams snorting in contempt and reaching for the door handle: To be honest, my Lady, I don't know what you're like any more – I thought you loved me, but then I find you've been encouraging that beast Keneally, and now you've dumped a friend to marry an old goat with a bit of cash in his pocket even though I am sure you do not love him or find attractive in any way! You do know what you will have to do with him, don't you! And pretty quickly I may add so he thinks my child – my SON – is his! You do realise………!

Rebecca suddenly yelling a little too loudly in ….. Yes, I do realise! I realise perfectly well! What I don't think YOU realise, Mr Adams, is that it is your fault that I am in this mess in the first place, and do you know what! I still love you, despite the fact you've given up on me, and I always will! I thought if I stayed here I could be near you, but now you've put me right off, I didn't realise that you hate me so much, that one little flirtation that went wrong to no fault of my own could produce such anger on your part! Now I realise just how difficult you must be to work with, why Will Forest hates you so much…….!

Suddenly Adams forces his arm around her waist and pulls her into him, kissing her firmly and with such passion that for a moment Rebecca is swept away by it, returning the gesture forcefully. But the thought of him being able to get back her affection by presuming to kiss her rouses her annoyance rather than anything else and she pushes him off, gasping and staring at him in rage

Rebecca panting heavily, her eyes narrowing: How dare you!

Adams wiping his mouth and eyeing her lustfully: What's the matter? Thought you'd be used to being treated like that by now and I didn't see you rejecting me in a hurry!

Without warning, Rebecca's hand flies out and strikes him hard across his cheek with a loud smack, completely catching Adams unaware. She had enjoyed their kiss, but there is no way she is going to let on to him, especially after such a hurtful remark. How dare he assume it was what she wanted? Adams winces from the blow, stunned into silence as Rebecca pushes past him and flings open the door, the tears still flowing. Without a second glance, she hurries away, destined for her bedroom, all the while desperate to get out of Taplows, run far away and never come back.

Meanwhile downstairs another family gathering was just about to get underway, smiling knowingly to herself Emily Corey made her way down the dimly lit corridors from the kitchen to the Butler's office, she had left Felix finishing off the remaining few pies. She was actually a little earlier than planned mainly because she was in such a state of excitement over this surprise that she had been little help in the kitchen, in fact Felix had positively insisted she leave at once especially after she had managed to put her elbow through the delicate crust of one his pies before knocking another off the table in her haste to clean up the mess from the first. So gladly she had agreed, abandoning the exasperated chef to his duties and heading off to meet her family as planned, humming the wedding march softly under her breath as she practically scampered down the corridor. She just had a feeling about tonight they had to have something important to discuss and from her point of view the only thing that was possible was an engagement, after all it was a little soon for the patter of tiny feet but well just give them time.

Turning the corner she stopped suddenly outside the door to the Butler's office, a smile spreading rapidly over her face as she caught sight of the happy couple inside, seemly oblivious to anyone outside their own personal sphere. For a moment she stood and watched them as they sat whispering and laughing together, obviously so much in love and excited about something. However just as she was about to tap on the door and alert them to her presence Flora happened to glance up and spot her first, smiling broadly the housekeeper pushed herself out of the Butler's lap blushing furiously at having been caught in such a intimate situation. A moment later a chuckling Walter got to his feet and smiling almost apologetically at his mother walked over and opened the door ushering his mother quickly inside.

"I'm afraid you'll have to forgive my fiancé mother, the poor dear has had an evening full of shocks seeing you there just put the icing on the cake, I'm surprised she didn't keel over with the strain."

"Walter Corey..!" Flora began outraged but her exclamation was quickly cut off by the look of stunned surprise on Emily's face. "Well I suppose that's dealt with then, with your usual tact and understanding I might add, talk about telling her gently!" Flora added a note of exasperation creeping into her voice as she surveyed the smug expression on her husband to be's face.

"Well mother a little response might be nice, how about congratulations perhaps even a few tears, just something to show you're pleased!" Walter goaded softly, nudging his mother gently with his elbow and jolting her out of her reverie.

"Well of course I'm pleased, but it took a moment or two to register talk about baptism of fire, no good evening mother we have something to tell you, I mean with an intro like that it still feels like I'm waiting for the axe to fall…" Emily snapped back, eyeing the pair of them with interest waiting for one of them to either confirm or deny her suspicions. "You don't have any more news I should prepare for?" She prompted, her penetrating gaze settling on Flora who began to squirm uncomfortably.

"Urrgh…Mother lets not get ahead of ourselves shall we, plenty of time for all that now isn't there!" Walter jumped in moving round the room and sliding his arm round Flora's waist protectively and the housekeeper gladly leant against his shoulder for support. "But you're right there are something's I haven't told you, most importantly the Earl has given his permission and we can both retain our positions…"

"Well that's all well and good!" Emily cut in moving to the fireside chair and sitting down gracefully whilst Walter poured them each a brandy. "But what I want to know is when, when?" She added her impatience getting the better of her.

"Oh well that isn't settled, hopefully before Christmas…" Flora began but Walter suddenly cut her off.

"Or a week on Thursday to be more precise!" He added casually causing both women to suddenly start, this time Flora joining Emily in her impression of a fish out of water.

"A WEEK NEXT THURSDAY!" Flora exclaimed her hand shaking so badly that she threatened to spill her untouched brandy all over fireside rug. "Walter Corey how could you not tell me…I mean less than two weeks to organise a wedding, When did you find time to sort this out?"

"Oh I asked the Reverend when he arrived earlier I mean surely a week is enough." Walter scoffed, at the outraged pair. "I mean what's there to organise, we've got the bride and groom sorted and well the rest is just fripperies isn't it?" He added jokily, glancing up his confidence began to wane when he saw the furious look on Flora's face.

"FRIPPERIES!" Emily retorted. "Oh my boy you have pulled some stunts in your time, but this takes the biscuit, a woman's wedding is the most important day of her life, well before the day she holds her first child, it needs careful planning everything has to be just perfect!"

"Yes but…" Walter began trying to cut in but glancing across at the still silently fuming Flora he decided perhaps it would be better to remain silent and look suitably chastised.

"No buts Walter, well this doesn't leave us much time Flora my dear, certainly not long enough to have a new dress made up or anything, but that doesn't mean we can't make it something special if we concentrate on flowers and we can talk to Felix about a doing the food for a small party…"

"I don't want him involved…" Walter began but this time Flora cut him off.

"Well what would you suggest Walter that we simply forget about the whole thing and treat it like an everyday trip to church, just pop into Tappleton get married and be home in time for supper?" She asked her voice dangerously low and tense.

"No of course not, it's just well our getting married is what's important, and I thought you'd be pleased that I'd managed to arrange it so soon you keep saying how you just wish we were married already I thought I was giving you what you wanted?" Walter replied sullenly whilst refilling his glass and so missing the shared looked of resignation that passed between both Flora and Emily.

"Don't look to me dear, he's your problem now." Emily added teasingly, causing Walter to look up suddenly from his drink.

"Yes and don't I know it!" Flora replied chuckling under her breath. "Oh well I suppose we can sort something out but Walter really you know what people will think?" She said as she glared at him, her expression softening at the Butler's still confused face. "That I must be expecting and we can't possibly wait to organise a proper wedding, there's not even any time to invite any of my family; I don't know how I am going to explain that to my mother!"

"She'll understand my dear, Mother's have a way of doing that where their children are concerned!" Emily added levelling her gaze at her suitably abashed son. "So where shall we start?" Emily asked standing up and taking Flora's arm as the pair began to plan the wedding as they walked towards the door. "Perhaps your wardrobe after all I'm sure we can find something suitable and then we can discuss how we can alter and accessorise it."

"Wait…shouldn't Flora and I discuss things first?" Walter started his panic obvious in his voice as he watched his mother escort Flora away probably for the rest of the evening which would ultimately put a severe cramp in their plans for the night.

"Was there something you wanted Walter?" Flora asked teasingly, knowing exactly what was the real reason for his sudden interest in the wedding arrangements.

"Well…. Yes there was but…." Walter tried to reply but was put off making up a suitable excuse by both Flora's amused expression and his Mother's all knowing gaze, blustering slightly under their intense scrutiny he paced up and down the room before turning on his heel a smug smile quickly spreading across his face. "Fine my dear you may spend time going over your wardrobe if you wish, it's just I was going to make a start on picking our new quarters but if you're certain that you trust my judgement in such an important matter…." Walter trailed off seeing the look of sudden panic on Flora's face.

"No you're right we do need to select our rooms, after all god knows what state they will be in and it's not like we can drag the other staff off to help tidy them up, after all it's not like I don't have enough on my plate at the moment!" Flora added despairingly, seemingly weighed down by the burden of her combined duties.

Sighing softly Walter walked over to the pair, sliding his arm gently around Flora's waist he squeezed it reassuringly before planting a tender kiss on her forehead, as Emily patted her hand soothingly. "Don't worry Flora I think you'll be surprised how quickly people will volunteer to help out, I for a fact know of a certain under-butler who owes us more than a few favours, and it's not like mother has anything better to do, somehow we'll manage!" Walter said soothingly as they all walked towards the door. "And besides I'd gladly marry you wearing a Hessian sack…"

"Yes you might but some of us have standards!" Emily cut in, shaking her head at them both before marching off down the corridor, Walter might be all laid back about this but this was her only remaining child's wedding and she had some serious planning to do. After all the Lord created the world in seven days and alright she was hardly divine but she was a Corey, plan a wedding in ten days, that sounded like a challenge!

After Rebecca had stormed away from him, Adams cursed himself for his mindless stupidity before dashing off in the opposite direction to find Will Forest and order him to tend the Earl. He had been so pre-occupied that the usual snide comments and a firm clip round the ear never occurred leaving Will rather baffled and almost concerned for Adams' state of mind. The under-butler then returned to his freezing quarters and proceeded to light the fire before his hands and feet froze and dropped off, the ice forming on the inside of the windows and almost cracking the glass.

Now, fifteen minutes later, Adams is huddled in front of the fire, an unopened book on his lap while his muddled mind jumps from one minute thinking he has every chance of getting back with Rebecca, while the next realising that all is lost and their relationship can never be rekindled again. With every change of heart he refills his whisky glass, gulping down the contents until his throat feels on fire, but just as he chinks the bottle and glass together for the fourth time in ten minutes, a quiet but rather stern voice interrupts his private musings:

If you keep on like that you'll drown yourself, or is that the plan?

Adams pausing with his bottle and looking up in surprise: Mr Jarvis! I was just having a tipple before bed!

Jarvis smiling dryly and shutting the door behind him: I'm not here to scald you, Andrew, what you do in your own private time is a matter for you, unless it is illegal or affecting your work.

Jarvis stops just in front of the closed door, a sense of awkwardness descending over the room as Adams pours his drink then offers one to the butler, which is received gratefully. He could afford his under-butler a little time to find out his troubles, as he feels his duty, but the thought of Flora possibly lying in wait for him in her bed, a naughty smile on her face and wrapped in nothing more than a crisp cotton sheet meant it was all he could do not to run from Adams' room to hers in sheer anticipation. Maybe if he isn't too much longer, they will get their opportunity in the Earl's study after all, considering the amorous look on her face in his office.

After a moment Jarvis moves over to Adams' fireplace, glancing around the room but keeping to himself his concern at seeing it in such a mess and wondering whether he should introduce room inspections to the more senior staff. He sips thoughtfully at his whisky, eyeing Adams then beginning to pace, wondering exactly what to say to him

Jarvis: And is it? Affecting your work?

Adams his attempt at confusion very unconvincing: I'm not sure quite what you are referring to, sir.

Jarvis halting just in front of the under-butler's chair and staring down at him: Oh, come on Andrew, I can see something is wrong, I'm not blind! You've been in a very odd mood, even for you, over the last few days and I thought I should come and find you, see what's going on, although you will have to forgive the intrusion.

Adams sighing heavily and rubbing his forehead: Rebecca and I - we have parted. It's over.

Jarvis placing his glass on the fireplace and pursing his lips: I'm sorry to hear that, although I can't really say I'm all that surprised. A refined woman like that would be difficult for any man to keep, especially for - I'm sorry to say it - a man in your social position, and I'm afraid you're not exactly...well...you know.

Adams nursing his glass and staring at the bottom of it: No you don't understand. She is to marry the Earl, not the wonderful Hugo, and my child is to be brought up a bloody Sturges-Bourne.

Jarvis unable to hide his amazement: The Earl! Are you sure!

Adams nodding his head slowly, his voice bitter for the first time: Yes, I'm completely sure, she told me herself, in no uncertain terms, that it is the best decision for her and the child, and she wants to marry him as soon as possible so she can convince him MY baby is his.

Jarvis lowering himself into the chair opposite Adams and frowning: Well this is most unexpected, and most inconvenient I may add, I do wish his Lordship would speak to me before making these decisions as it affects everyone here. I am very surprised that she accepted though, how very peculiar! I would have thought the Laird could give her everything she needs...

Adams snorting: Well he can't, can he, he's bloody - he's one of them, like Chef, which suited me well when I knew because of that Rebecca couldn't be intimate with him, but now the Earl of all people will be taking what is mine on their wedding night!

Jarvis leaning forward and refilling his glass: Hugo is too! What the hell's wrong with this place, I hope it's not catching! But what was her reason for marrying into the Sturges-Bourne family? I know the Earl is desperate for an heir and will stop at nothing to prevent that brother of his or his trapeze artist nephew from inheriting, but Rebecca shouldn't have to worry about that, she could marry any one of the eligible aristocratic men around, it's not as if this country has got a shortage!

Adams sighing again: Well she doesn't have a choice now does she, she's pregnant and has to protect her reputation, and anyway she said...she said she wanted to be near me, and that she still loves me, after everything that has happened.

Jarvis his voice hardening: Everything with Frank, I presume. That piece of dirt has a hell of a lot to answer for.

Adams: Aye, that he does. You know he's been serving Lady Francesca a little too well, don't you? Seems a regular thing to me. It's sickening.

Jarvis Shaking his head in disbelief and chuckling wryly: Well, I wouldn't like to be in his shoes when Lord Montague gets wind of his wife's new hobby, Julian's drinking binges will be the least of his worries! I know Lord Monty is rather weedy but she's taken him for a mug for too long it seems and as the man he will sooner or later have to put his foot down and put her firmly in her place.

After another short pause, the fire crackling nosily through their silence, Jarvis breathes in deeply and glances at the clock, more eager than ever to escape to Flora and her warm embrace. They had just got engaged, he should be with her, what possessed him to find Andrew tonight of all nights when he should be in bed?

Adams sighing, placing his head in his hands: Why are women so complicated? You think you know where you are with them one minute, and the next they're pulling your heart to shreds. Ever since my heart attack I have felt useless to her, so inadequate that I began to wonder what she ever saw in me and why on earth she would want to have any sort of conversation with me, let alone...well...be with me in any other sort of capacity. And now - now it seems I was proved right.

Jarvis patting Adams on the shoulder sympathetically: If you love her, you should tell her. Even if it can never be again between you, you should let her know how you feel. Talking these things through is something I've learned to do the hard way, but if you don't you'll regret it, especially as it's your child she's carrying. And if she's going to be staying here, well, you'll see her and your child an awful lot, so estrangement isn't really a good idea, as I know.

Adams shrugging unenthusiastically: Maybe. All that 'in touch with your emotions' crap, eh? I think it's too late now, though. I suggested that she enjoys all the male attention she's been receiving lately and she slapped me, and now I don't think she'll ever talk to me again.

Jarvis feeling a little light-headed from the alcohol and blazing warmth of the fire: Oh poppycock, of course she will, women are strange creatures and always come round eventually, they see that they were unreasonable and too emotionally charged and once they've calmed down and stopped calling you an 'insensitive bd' or whatever one can always give them a good talking to to sort them out. Anyway a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, a cheeky glint in his eye I cannot believe you got her pregnant – a bloody aristocrat - you sly old dog!

Adams returning the smile, almost a little proud of himself: Aye, indeed. Toff society may reject you but there's no denying the laws of nature, not a single social barrier there, God made us equal and pro-creation is pro-creation whether you're rolling in money or haven't got two sixpences to rub together, isn't that right Mr Jarvis?

Jarvis tapping the arm of the chair: Quite true, Andrew, quite true! So, if you have a son he will become heir to the Sturges-Bourne fortune and one day be the Earl himself - how do you feel about that?

Adams growling gruffly, smacking the bottle on the table and causing Jarvis to jump: My son will be born a Scot and will always be a Scot, it turns my stomach to think that he will become English just to suit tradition!

Jarvis shrugging and spouting a crude joke: Well he may be of Scottish parentage but he was conceived here, at Taplows, so therefore don't you think it rather appropriate?

Adams leaping to his feet and leaning on his bookshelf: How would you feel! If Flora was to marry another man and bring your child up as his own, without you having a single say in the matter!

Jarvis frowning and muttering through painful memories: It very nearly happened, remember.

Adams scrunching his eyes shut and cursing himself: Of course, I'm sorry sir, I shouldn't have said that, after everything that has happened.

Jarvis smiling and looking a little sheepish: No matter, no matter. I have news of my own, actually. Flora and I are to be married.

Adams raising his eyebrows: Ah, back on then are you? Properly this time?

Jarvis puffing out his chest and looking rather pleased with himself: Indeed, Andrew! So much so that the big day is a week on Thursday, although my mother's fussing around, putting ideas in Flora's head about insignificant things like dresses, and cakes - bloody bridesmaids for God's sake, I mean what's that about? I know who I would like as my best man, however.

Adams unable to help a small smile and a look of interest: Oh yes, and who would that be? Someone reliable, someone you may have worked closely with?

Jarvis nodding sincerely: Oh, indeed, indeed! My old friend Mr Savage, the butler at Eastwell Manor. You remember him don't you? Haven't seen him for ages.

Adams looking crestfallen, shuffling uneasily: Er, yes, I remember him.

Jarvis chuckling nostalgically, failing to notice Adams' disappointment: We were young footmen together for a while, in our Duke of Montrose days, and we certainly got into some scrapes I can tell you! Thick as thieves, we were. I was so very young, though, probably around the same age as George. I was a bit of a catch back then, I had many female admirers, especially in the stillroom, well more than Arthur anyway! I think he got a bit jealous, poor fellow, especially when I became first footman. But not as jealous as bloody Jimmy Prothero, he was such a mummy's-boy valet, rubbish at his job, too busy preening himself but never actually getting the girls. It was his fault I left with a flea in my ear and a mediocre character, but anyway we won't go into that now. Bloody Prothero.

Adams flopping back into his chair: Well will you write to Savage?

Jarvis sighing deeply: Yes but he probably won't be able to come at such short notice, such was my probably regrettable haste, so I'll probably have to find an alternative.

Suddenly there is a hurried light knock and the door flies open, forcing both men to jump hurriedly out of their chairs, Adams nearly knocking over the last remainder of the whisky all over the floor. Lizzie stands panting in the doorway, the light from the hallway silhouetting her against the considerable darkness of Adams' room, as she desperately tries to catch her breath

Jarvis glaring furiously: What is it, girl! Do you usually interrupt your father in such a way!

Lizzie her eyes darting quickly from Jarvis to Adams: Mr Jarvis, Father – I tried to stop her, but she wouldn't listen, just ran from the room, I followed her, calling to her to stop, but she kept running, out into the cold and the snow – there's a blizzard getting up again – and she ran to the stables, took a horse! She's gone off, with only her dress and shawl for warmth, galloped away, so I ran to fetch Lord Hugo, told him, and he's gone after her, but by the time I found him she had been gone a good few minutes, and it was so snowy I couldn't see which way she went either!

Adams darting forward and roughly shaking his daughter's arms: Who do you mean! Don't tell me…….!

Lizzie staring hard into her father's pleading eyes: Lady Rebecca, Father! Shouted she didn't know what to do any more, maybe it was best if she went and never came back, but Lord Hugo wouldn't tell anyone she had gone, didn't want them fussing, said he would bring her back himself and not to worry, but I thought I had to tell you!

Adams drawing Lizzie firmly into a hug and kissing her forehead: You did the right thing, love, thank you.

Jarvis taking Adams' arm and trying to mask the look of anxiety on his face: It's alright, Andrew, he'll bring her back. He's an experienced horseman, he'll catch her up, don't worry. Best thing you can do is wait here and I'll alert the night watchman, if he doesn't know already. I'll be discreet, as Lord Hugo requested.

Adams swinging round, panting and rubbing his chest: Please don't tell the Earl. Please!

Jarvis lowering his voice to a quiet mutter: I am afraid I'm duty bound to tell the Earl, but I will tell him Lord Hugo didn't want the rest of her family to know. He won't want them to know either, that his new bride has just legged it for fear of marrying him. As I say, wait here, try and get a little sleep, and I will let you know if I hear anything first.

Nodding reluctantly, Adams slowly sits back down, Lizzie agreeing to stay with him. The best thing he could do is to tell his daughter everything – about Frank, about the baby, about the Earl. She would have to know, and now seemed a good time to explain himself.

Jarvis exits the room, shutting the door quietly behind him. For a moment he just stares at the wall, unsure what to do or what to even think, and rubs the back of his neck in confusion and tiredness. Oh, how he needs Flora's loving caress on his tense shoulder muscles. Firstly, he would tell the Earl what had happened, then he would find Flora, tell her – now they had their 'no secrets' policy – although that would be the final nail in the sex-in-the-study coffin for tonight. Well, he considers, he may get a bit of a look-in, but only if Rebecca is retuned safely in the night. He would hope, anyway. Unless he would still be labelled as 'unfeeling' for even thinking such a thing while a pregnant woman had unfortunately exposed herself to the elements and caught a ruddy cold. With a final, rather selfish sniff, a somewhat moody and put-out butler turns and marches off down the corridor to break the unfortunate news to his master