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?

6. Episode 6a

The dawn broke misty and uninviting over the house, almost as if reflecting the heavy mood of pretty much everyone under its roof. The sun's desperate attempt to brighten up the cloud-laden sky had failed and left it hanging weak and pale behind an unmoving whisp of dull cloud; the air although chilly remaining still and thick as the thunder clouds begin to roll in slowly from the east. Julian and Monty had returned from their early morning ride by breakfast and in time to bid farewell to Lady Rebecca and Lord Farquarson, both of whom were still set to return to Scotland with Lord Hugo's body, while the undertakers prepared him and carried his coffin to the awaiting carriage. Rebecca had been told by the doctor that she could still travel if she felt up to it, even though his professional opinion was to air on the side of caution, so with Lizzie's help she had dressed in her warmest black dress, her mind wracked with sadness for Hugo and leaving Andrew, and had made an effort to go to breakfast.

Downstairs, just after the lower servants had tucked into porridge and bread, Lizzie watched her quiet, obviously distracted father leave the room before pulling Will aside, her slight annoyance obvious on her child-like face.

Lizzie dragging Will into the corner and whispering harshly: You KNOW I'm leaving today, why haven't you come to say goodbye? I waited for ages last night, thinking you'd have something to say to me at least, considering everything!

Will glancing around him and sighing heavily: Look I'm sorry, I just didn't know what to say to you to be honest. Anyway if that father catches us together I'll be in for another thump and I'd rather keep my limbs if you don't mind!

Lizzie pouting in disgust: What, so that's it then? No persuading me to stay? No telling me that you felt something for me after all!

Will in obvious irritation, his voice slightly harsher than he intended: I've got other things on my mind that's all………

Lizzie huffing and placing her hands on her hips: On other women I've no doubt! Grace is right, you footmen are all the same, one minute you're being as nice as pie, the next I mean nothing, AND it was all your fault in the first place!

Will shrugging dismissively, conscious others are watching them: Oh c'mon love, I've just been busy……

Lizzie turning and storming off, calling behind her: Oh forget it! I'm better off in Scotland!

Will throwing his arms up in despair: What d'you want me to say, I'll sob my heart out! For God's sake Lizzie, come back!

A short while later, to Adams' complete annoyance, Jarvis has given him far too many tasks to be getting on with for one morning, let alone to get time to go and see Rebecca. He had heard through Lizzie that she had decided to brave the long, cold journey up to Scotland with her father, despite what he or the doctor said to her, and so he has to get to see her before she leaves. For all he knows he may not see her again until after the babies are born, and that thought alone tears at him as he frantically tries to count the number of large and small knives in the Earl's precious Georgian set. Of course his mind keeps wandering, causing him to loose count, so he has to begin all over again, determined to get it done so he could try to slip in to see his beloved aristocrat one last time. As if his prayer is answered, however, Jarvis looks round the door to the dining room and calls out to him in rather abrupt manner

Jarvis: Mr Adams, if you wouldn't mind assisting me with the departure of our guests?

Adams clattering down a handful of knives a little over-keenly: Certainly sir! I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Jarvis smiling dryly as Adams follows him out: That's what I like to see, enthusiasm from my staff. There seems to have been a serious lacking of that of late.

However once they have both made their way to the hallway, despite of their own punctuality, there is not an aristocrat to be seen. Jarvis tuts and flips open his pocket watch in mild irritation – he has work to be getting on with, he doesn't want to be kept waiting in this manner. Lord Farquarson had specifically told him that he wanted him to be at the door at half past ten prompt and not a moment later, but obviously his request for good timekeeping on Jarvis' part had fallen short of his own and this is most displeasing to him

Adams seeing his chance to go upstairs: Sir if I may be so bold as to suggest, perhaps I should go up to Lord Farquarson's room to check everything is in order for departure?

Jarvis sniffing and frowning furiously: This is most inconvenient – he has his own valet for such matters! The carriages are waiting and although I'm sure Lord Hugo has all the time in the world, I for one do not! Oh, very well, but do be quick Mr Adams!

Adams clearing his throat and nodding: Yes, of course Mr Jarvis.

Without wanting to be seen to be actually running up the stairs, the under-butler strolls instead while his mind has already raced ahead and is now kissing Rebecca passionately. Briefly he pauses outside Lord Farquarson's room, but he can hear the old duffer yelling at his valet for mixing up his socks in the most 'abhorrent' way so hurries along an empty corridor until he reaches Rebecca's now ever so familiar door. Lightly he knocks and to his mild disappointment his daughter opens it, her brown eyes slightly red and her cheeks flushed as if she had been crying, but instead of shooing him away she beckons him inside and leaves herself to give them a bit of privacy.

Rebecca is standing by the window looking out, her room now empty as her bags and boxes had been packed and are now weighing down her carriage outside. She still looked to Adams the most elegant woman in the world, her fitted black coat outlining the still slim curves of her waist and her hair bundled neatly inside her equally black bonnet. Slowly the under-butler moves up behind her once she fails to turn to see him, sliding his hands over her waist and leaning in to nuzzle the back of her exposed neck. Quick as a flash she turns and pulls him away from the window, panic on her pale face

Rebecca ducking behind the curtain: Andrew, what are you doing! Someone might see us and then what would we do!

Adams lowering his eyes and sighing: I'm sorry Becca, I couldn't resist. I'm just so fed up of creeping around, not being able to show my affection for you in public, and now you're leaving my mind is all over the place at the moment.

Rebecca's shocked expression softens and she stares deeply into his eyes, not really knowing what to say to him. Everything had been said, she has to go and one small fainting incident isn't going to stop her, but she still loves him more than anything and he alone would be the reason for her staying, but even this isn't enough. Maybe she would return in a short while, maybe after Christmas to spend time in London with the Sturges Bournes. Gently Adams pulls her close with one arm while pushing back the stray red curls which had escaped from her bonnet and are delicately framing her face. They may have not been able to have much carnal fun recently but she sure has hell isn't going to escape without a rather passionate kiss or two, just to remind her most forcefully that she is his. But as he is kissing her, enjoying the delightful feeling of her warm lips entwined with his, the immediate sadness of the moment hits him and he can't help the tear which springs from his eye and trickles down his cheek until it lands on hers.

Rebecca breaking apart slightly and whispering breathlessly: I love you, Andrew, so very much.

Adams rubbing his nose softly against hers and grazing his hand against her stomach: Aye, I know, and you know that I love you more than my own life. Just look after yourself and the babies and make sure you see your physician regularly. Mark my words I'll get the truth from Lizzie if you don't! I will write every week, and I want you to write back and tell me exactly how you are, every detail, what you've been doing with your days and everything.

Rebecca smiles softly and nods in agreement, hugging him tightly. Suddenly there is a loud knock on the door and her father's voice booms through it, ordering her to the carriage

Rebecca keeping her voice firmly under control: Of course father, I shall be out momentarily I'm just tying my bonnet!

As she moves to the door Adams snatches her hand and pulls her back into another passionate embrace, tracing the outline of her bonnet ribbon with his finger. When the clinch is over, Rebecca reluctantly pulls away and with a brief tearful glance exits. Adams follows on a minute later, suppressing his confused emotions as only a gruff Scotsman can and resumes his position next to Jarvis

Jarvis turning to him and muttering angrily: Where the hell have you been! Farquarson's here so where on earth did you vanish off to! Actually don't answer that, come to my office after dinner tonight and explain yourself then, I have plenty to discuss with you anyway including your rather inappropriate request to Mrs Ryan about Miss McDuff's replacement!

Adams gulping hard and gritting his teeth: Aye, sir.

Outside, the Earl has appeared to see off his guests, as have Lady Francesca, Lord Montague, Lady Caroline and a slightly swaying Lord Julian. Adams notes very quickly that his Lordship barely pays Lady Rebecca any attention whatsoever, apart from a quick kiss of her gloved hand, but Rebecca herself hardly notices or cares, instead she is focused firmly on the harrowing sight of Lord Hugo's coffin in the glass-walled coffin.

Lord Farquarson climbing into his and his daughter's carriage: Rebecca my dear, into the carriage please, we have little time to waste!

To the surprise of everyone, Rebecca doesn't respond. Slowly she walks up to Hugo's carriage, unblinking as large tears begin to pool in her eyes, and reaches out to touch the glass as if somehow it would bring her closer to him

Franny leaning towards her husband and snorting: I knew it, she's gone mad poor woman!

Farquarson his face growing redder as his moustache bristles: Rebecca! Into the carriage now please, lets not keep these good people waiting!

Her father's words only slightly enter Rebecca's rather numbed consciousness as Adams instinctively steps forward to comfort her, but on seeing Jarvis' rather harsh glare he steps back into line next to him and continues to watch her intently. Something certainly isn't right, she seems to be shaking under all those layers but her bonnet obscures her face and he can't see if she is sobbing or ill. Still her feet seem rooted to the spot, and her eyes glued to Hugo's coffin through the glass, but as her furious father approaches behind her shouting about timekeeping her knees buckle and she swoons into his arms.

Adams darts forward but hurriedly grinds to a halt a little way from where Lord Farquarson is calling out to Monty for assistance

Jarvis stepping towards a rather bemused Earl: My Lord, may I suggest the Lady be brought inside?

Earl puffing out his chest and nodding emphatically: Certainly, certainly. Monty bring her inside, into the drawing room!

Once Rebecca has been placed on a chaise and her bonnet removed, Lizzie hurries in with the smelling salts and wafts them under her nose softly calling out 'my Lady', concerned she would not be able to travel after all. Instantly Rebecca is roused and gasps in shock as she comes round at all the faces staring at her, one in particular a little more amused than the others

Franny a wicked smirk spread across her face: Well her frailty is hardly surprising, is it father, when you consider that she is with child!

Monty swiftly turning to his wife, his eyes flaring: Francesca! How could you! It is Rebecca's news to tell, not yours!

Franny putting on a surprised and rather puzzled expression, her voice shrill: Oh, I'm sorry, I thought father knew, how silly of me! Oh Becca do forgive me for revealing your little secret – sorry I mean your marvellous news!

Farquarson turning his amazed stare to a groggy Rebecca: Is this true? Are you really expecting?

Rebecca sighs and nods, her eye catching Adams standing unflinching by the doorway. As Lizzie helps Rebecca to sit up, she also sees him and wonders if any of this is actually registering with him, and if he really cares at all anyway.

Farquarson huffing and turning to the assembled aristocrats: Well that settles it then, Rebecca must remain here, I can't have her gallivanting up to Scotland in her condition, if that is agreeable with you Algie.

The Earl gives a rather interested little snort – any excuse to have her stay longer and therefore increase the possibility of marriage with her in a year's time, once her period of mourning would be over. Yes she would have Hugo's child, but now he knows she is far from barren a second child should be absolutely no trouble at all. Her staying longer at Taplows would be an ideal solution, although of course he would have to keep his distance for a long while to come yet.

Rebecca trying to struggle to her feet: But father I'm fine, I can travel, really I can!

Farquarson shooing his daughter back onto the chaise: Certainly not! Hugo is no longer with us so you will obey me, I am sure it is what he would have wanted. You cannot put his child at risk, it very well may be a son which would be even more reason to remain here! Don't worry my dear, we will give Hugo a good send-off.

Adams can feel the excitement and joy building inside him, hardly able to believe that she would be staying after all. He wants to jump up and down and actually run over and hug Lord Farquarson for his insistence, but somehow his professionalism prevented him from doing so – as did the rather unnerving eye Jarvis appears to be keeping on him.

Franny huffs and storms out, furious that her father hadn't taken his hand to his elder daughter for her bare-faced cheek at getting pregnant quite obviously out of wedlock, even if the gentleman in question did in fact become her husband. That, according to Franny, certainly is not the point, and she does not consider for one moment that she may be a little hypocritical over the small issue of bd children.

The under-butler risks a small smile at Rebecca, their eyes meeting over the back of the chaise. He has been given another chance to do the right thing by her, to make her feel secure, and this time he isn't about to let her get away so easily. However, this did mean he not only had Molly's employment to worry about but he would have to make sure he could see Rebecca regularly, and hopefully with any look never the twain shall meet. Molly had always been very sure of everyone's place in society, even more than Jarvis which he thinks is rather amazing, and she would far more likely be horrified by his involvement with an aristocrat than his butler had been. Oops, that reminds him. Jarvis has forgotten about his relationship with Rebecca, no wonder he kept looking at him strangely when he couldn't take his eyes off her. He had better not forget to see him after dinner, otherwise he may find himself without employment even before his sister starts at Taplows. With a small chuckle of delight, Adams exits the room to inform the coachmen that Her Ladyship would, quite regrettably, not be venturing up to Scotland today.

Later that day once Lord Faquarson had finally been seen off to Scotland and Jarvis had had to endure a long and very tedious meeting with the Earl, in which the old duffer seemed more eager to garner gossip about Lady Rebecca's shocking pregnancy then discuss the plans for the India trip, the Butler finally made it back to his office. Practically throwing himself down into his fireside easy chair a grumpy expression creasing his handsome face, he reached into his breast pocket drawing out the cigar that was hidden there in case of emergencies. For a moment he weighed up the options, if he smoked it now he ran the risk of being called away and therefore ruining a perfectly good cigar, but damn it he'd had a very trying few days and that morning had simply put the icing on the cake. Those blasted aristocrats couldn't they just stick to the carefully laid plans he had to arrange for them, they had no idea the complex behind the scene's planning it required to keep them in their ivory towers of luxury!

Huffing slightly Jarvis reached over to his candle, carefully lighting his cigar before slouching back in his chair, closing his eyes for a few moments as he let the strains and stresses of the day wash away. However despite all this there was one niggling worrying thought that still refused to shift, what was he going to do about Flora Ryan? Reaching into his waistcoat pocket Jarvis removed his pocket watch, snapping it open he gazed in wonder at the coil of hair that still lay safe within the casement, stroking it reverently he allowed himself to imagine running his fingers through its owners long dark locks.

Smiling to himself he suddenly realised he must have done so on numerous occasions not to mention other far more intimate caresses, and he had to suppress a somewhat naughty chuckle as he remembered her ardent response to his most innocent of touches. Deep down part of him was angry and frustrated at his inability to remember any of their liaisons, especially the first time, what wouldn't he give to remember the first time he had lain with her and savoured her unique delights; but at the same time part of him couldn't suppress the glee at knowing he had done so, that she had given herself to him on numerous occasions and with obvious enthusiasm.

It was thus, his ego satisfactorily massaged by the thought of Flora desiring him possibly even pining away from lack of his touch and attention that the Butler happened to glance at the time. The tiny carriage clock on his fireside mantle had begun to strike the time, a quarter past eleven, at this the Butler smiled broadly any moment now his morning tea would be arriving. He had specifically instructed the housekeeper over breakfast, that he would be requiring this additional supplement to his diet and at what time he insisted it be served at and she had demurely assured him she would see to it personally, and for Jarvis that had meant one thing, that she would be bringing it herself or at least supervising one of the maids.

Settling back in his chair his ears straining to hear the delicate patter of her heels against the flagstones, he allowed himself to indulge in a little fantasy of his own, of her coming to see him all despondent and apologetic, busying herself with the tea things whilst all the time searching for an opportunity to tell him how sorry she was to have ever questioned him and of course she had realised how foolish she was being in even considering travelling. He of course would sit there quiet but benevolent, humouring her whilst she babbled nervously, and accepting her apology with tact and understanding, before perhaps suggesting they spend some time together that evening; if it wasn't raining they could go walk round the gardens and he could show off his superior knowledge of the constellations or if that wasn't possible they could always spend a quiet cosy night in by the fire.

It was at this point as his thoughts were rapidly diverging from friendly polite exchanges to something far more stimulating, that the door to his office was barged open and the Butler span round in his chair his expectant expression falling into one of disappointment as instead of the housekeeper standing in the doorway there was a somewhat cantankerous Emily Corey.

"Mother!" Jarvis exclaimed, unable to hide the panic and disappointment in his voice; disappointment that once more Flora had managed to elude him and panic at the thought his mother might notice the somewhat pink flush to his cheeks, amongst other signs of the amorous nature of his thoughts, just a moment or two before her untimely entrance.

"Well who were you expecting Queen Victoria herself?" Emily snapped, storming over to the desk and practically dropping the tea tray onto its surface.

"No…It's…" Jarvis began, tugging nervously at his collar in an effort to cool his sky rocketing temperature.

"Oh so you were hoping for someone else? Well hard cheese Walter, unlike you who seem to have nothing better to do than sip tea and smoke those disgusting cigars of yours, people such as Mrs Ryan and myself have other more pressing demands on our time!" Emily retorted striding over to the window and flinging it wide open in an effort to rid the room of that awful stench as she would put it.

"I don't suppose you gave us a second thought when you forgot to inform Felix about Lady Rebecca remaining behind, the poor man is beside himself! He had a perfectly elegant banquet planned for this evening, but now everything is up in the air, he had planned to do quail but now he hasn't enough for all the guests and the gamekeeper is unsure whether he will be able to find him another at this time of day; so I suggest you avoid Felix if you value your shoulders without a cleaver buried between them!"

"Look Mother it was hardly my fault now was it, it's not like I had anything to do with her ladyship's condition!" Jarvis blurted out without thinking, unable to suppress the immediate flush of embarrassment at his mother's raised eyebrow and amused expression.

Chuckling slightly at her son's mortification Emily walked back over to the desk and began to pour his tea. "I would never have suggested you were Walter, but since we're on the subject of your responsibilities perhaps now would be the right time to sort out this wedding business?" She added, but her tone of voice belied her words and Walter knew this was far from a suggestion, more like an imperial commend, resigned to having his ear chewed off the Butler sank back into his seat prepared to endure one of his mother's lectures.

"Well…?" Emily began expectantly.

"Well what?" Jarvis retorted.

"You know very well what! What is going on, or more to the point is the wedding still on?" Emily snapped back, angry at her son's apparently cavalier attitude.

"How the hell should I know." Jarvis muttered, seizing a piece of Grace's famous Dundee cake and practically shoving the entire slice into his mouth.

"Well for goodness sake Walter it is your wedding I would at least have expected you to take some interest in the matter!" Emily retorted. "It is in a matter of days you know, well it's supposed to be at least and tomorrow is Sunday so that is the last decent opportunity to cancel as you'll have the chance to speak to the Reverend in person and explain the peculiar situation. That is of course if you intend to cancel it….?" She trailed off eyeing her son suspiciously as she delicately sipped her tea.

"Honestly I don't know what I intend to do." Jarvis replied softly.

"I don't suppose you've done the obvious?" Emily asked, an element of exasperation entering her voice at her son's continued dithering.

"Which is?" Jarvis asked.

"Spoken to Flora about it!" Emily snapped.

"Well not directly, I mean it's a delicate matter and we need privacy…Something that seems in short supply around here now a days I might add!" Jarvis replied defensively. "I was planning on discussing it with her this evening providing we can snatch a few blessed minutes without some bloody aristocrat fainting or dying on us!"

"I am glad to hear, it is about time you started facing up to your responsibilities!" Emily retorted, laying heavy emphasis on responsibilities as if that was supposed to mean something to him.

"Personally I don't think I've ever shirked them, unlike some I might mention. "Jarvis muttered under his breath, his thoughts returning to his father, as his mother chatted on oblivious; the feud with his father still rankled Jarvis despite the old mans death.

How dare his mother sit their and lecture him on responsibilities; what about the responsibilities of a parent to protect and nurture their child? He had always vowed that any child of his would be brought up in a very different environment where they would be encouraged to be all that they could be, not ridiculed because they weren't exactly like their tall, handsome and witty elder brother, but each child valued for their individual merits. At one time he had given up any hope of having such a family but now with Flora he might have a second chance, and despite loosing all memories of their relationship and the doubts over her fidelity sown by Frank the prospect of children might be enough to overcome those barriers. If only he could be sure she could still provide them, surely the only thing worse than a marriage built on lies and mistrust was one barren of issue, so perhaps it would be better to wait, delay the wedding until after he returned from India and then he could insist they try for a child before he had committed himself.

However just as he was pondering these thoughts and coming to some sort of decision he was rudely dragged from his daydream by his mother.

"Walter have you listened to a word I said?" Emily hissed her voice low and dangerously tense.

"Of course, you've been lecturing me on the errors of my ways as usual." Walter bluffed confidently.

"And after that?" Emily asked smugly.

"What do you mean after that…?" Jarvis blustered.

"I asked you a question." Emily retorted. "Yes or No?"

"Err, no…" Jarvis replied.

"Oh so you haven't noticed then, men are so unobservant, personally I would have thought you would at least have paid attention to her if no one else, she is your fiancée after all!" Emily snapped.

"Oh well I have been very busy…" Jarvis began.

"So have we! Yet even Felix has noticed how pale she's looked these past few days. I don't suppose she's mentioned it to you that she's been feeling unwell, any unexplained fainting or nausea?" Emily prompted, again accentuating her words hinting at a hidden meaning which of course she felt should be ringing bells in the Butler's brain but instead Walter continued to look confused, no sudden flash of comprehension flittering across his face, and so Emily sighed heavily shaking her head in despair.

"Look mother if you're so concerned the next time Dr Evans visits to check on Lady Mary or Lady Rebecca I will have him examine Mrs Ryan as well, alright?" Jarvis barked, his temper getting the better of him at his mother continued interference in his private affairs; why couldn't she go back to Eastbourne and leave Flora and him to sort out their own love life?

"Well fine!" Emily snorted getting to her feet and haphazardly gathering together the now empty teacups and depositing them on the tray, whilst trying desperately to hide her tearing eyes from her son. "I was only trying to help but it appears you don't want nor need your old mother's help so I'll leave you to it then shall I? Let you make your own decisions and mistakes, go ahead and ruin your life Walter, on your own head be it!" She added warningly, sniffing to hold back the tears that now threatened.

"Yes you do that, it's difficult enough having one highly strung woman in my life without having to listen to some old…." Jarvis began nastily but he didn't have time to finish his sentence as an outraged Emily clipped him soundly round the ear for his cheek. Clutching his now throbbing ear, a red faced and outraged Butler glared up at his mother. "How dare you, I am not five years old any more mother…"

"No your not but that doesn't seem to stop you acting like a spoilt little brat, first getting angry because Flora has agreed to look after her dying friend whilst she travels round Europe, then sulking because she doesn't come crawling in her on bended knee to bring you your tea tray and now insulting your own mother, sometimes Walter Corey I think you lost more than your memory when you fell in that lake, your manners for example!" And with that she seized the tray, and stormed out of the Butler's office, leaving her son to scowl after her, rubbing his stinging ear as he began to contemplate ways of expediently removing his mother from Taplows.

Even if Doctor Evans was beginning to feel queasy at the mere mention of Taplows it gave him an excellent chance to see Miss Lewis, even if it was only from a distance, as she was keeping as well away from him as possible. He was deeply regretting what he had said to her the other day. Why couldn't he think before he spoke! He needed to prove to the frightened young woman that that the reason he had acted the way he had was because his feelings towards her were so strong. He'd been hoping for a while to think about what he was going to say to her before his next visit to Taplows, but Mr Adams had seemed quite anxious he got there straight away to see to Lady Rebecca. Talking to woman had never been his strong point; he always ended up speechless or embarrassed. What could he say to make her-

Evans: Miss Lewis. Stopping her as more of an instinct rather than the fact he had something to say. She turned and looked at him almost terrified, a look which broke her heart. She waited for a moment waiting for him to say something, but when nothing came she carried on walking. I'm sorry! He called after her. She whipped round and raised her eyebrow. She was not going to give in that easy, she told Grace that the other day! I feel I should apologise for my… disgusting behaviour the other day. Then feeling his nerves grow he continued. It was impolite of me and I hope you can forgive me. She looks down at the floor and nods before carrying on walking. He quickly reaches out and grabs her arm, careful to be gentle and says. That's not a proper answer Charlotte, I'm apologising and I expect you to say something instead of giving me a cold nod. She doesn't move or say anything, staring down at the hand on his arm. Cursing herself as she realised she wanted him to keep his hand there. Can you tell me I'm forgiven?

Charlotte harshly as possible: You're forgiven, now may I please go!

Evans: You're still mad at me!

Charlotte: Of course I am; you really hurt me. You expect me to forgive you like that? A little sorry and a pat on the arm?

Evans: Then what do you want me to say? What do you want me to do?

Charlotte: Just… Clenching her teeth Stay away from me.

Evans: We both know you don't want that.

Charlotte tutting and pulling her arm from his grasp: You know nothing about me! She was almost at the bottom of the corridor when he shouted

Evans: Then tell me! She froze to the spot, almost egging him to carry on, but at the same time, not wanting him to say anything so she had an excuse not to listen. I want to know. He shakes his head No, I really want to know. How do you expect me to leave you alone if I don't know why? I walk away from no one without a good reason. She swallows a lump in her throat, listening to him getting closer behind her but she still doesn't turn around. Tell me what you're thinking. He whispers

Charlotte: I'm thinking that if someone sees us, we'll get into trouble and Mrs Ryan will hang me from a tree if she knew I was here talking to you now, instead of carrying out my duties.

Evans: You'd prefer to be talking me though…?

Charlotte: I'd prefer to be having the most boring conversation with Andrew Adams than carrying out my duties.

Evans: Well we are getting somewhere. A smile tugs at her lips, though she'd never let him see it. I enjoy your company Miss Lewis. Is it all too much to ask?

Charlotte: Well surely if you just enjoy my company there is nothing wrong with that.

Evans: Oh no? She nods Then maybe we could come to some arrangement.

Charlotte: Maybe we could. She hears him turn, satisfied and begin to walk away, but before she knows what she is doing, she'd spun around and grabbed him the back of his jacket, pulling him back towards the wall and pinning him against it, she kissed him passionately. It took him a while to realise what was happening. When he came round, he wrapped his arms around, kissing her back with all the passion he'd kept buried inside him. It wasn't until they heard a familiar voice not so far away that they broke apart. Mrs Ryan! In a whisper He glanced around and saw a cupboard door to their left. He quickly grasped her hand and dragged her through the door, closing the door quickly behind them. Dr Evans, if we get caught… She is cut off by him kissing her again. Wrenching her lips away, she whispered breathlessly That is no way for a gentleman to behave.

Evans: Well if that is not gentlemanlike, your display on the other side of that door certainly wasn't ladylike. She turns slightly pink, at him getting the better of her. Surely you can excuse a man madly in love. Her eyes widen, she didn't know what to say. So when am I to have the pleasure of your company?

Charlotte: I don't know at that moment. She was more concerned about what she was going to tell Grace, her behaviour in the last few minutes had been disgusting and she distinctly remembers telling Grace she wasn't about to run back to the unfeeling doctor.

Evans: But you will meet me?

Charlotte: For the pleasure of your company… only. Now will you let me go? He nods, allowing her to pass, not after giving her a slight kiss on the cheek. She checked both ways for a furious Mrs Ryan before stepping into the corridor. Doctor Evans leant against the wall, women give out such confusing messages, he concludes before following her out. Time to get away, before someone else collapsed or had a heart attack... He was convinced all Taplows positions were cursed.

Later that evening the senior staff gathered for their evening meal, for the Butler this was the first time since breakfast that he had had more than a few seconds in the housekeeper's company. Studying her intently as he sipped his soup, Jarvis had to stifle a frown, for once his mother appeared to have a point, the housekeeper was looking much paler than he would have liked and she appeared to be playing with her food making a pretence at eating it. It was the same routine with Mr Kraus's delicious bourguignon, a few tiny bites and then a lot of fussing with her spoon, even the delicate strawberry tarts apparently could not tempt her as she waved the maid serving her away before she could dare lay the dessert in front of the housekeeper. It was at this point that the housekeeper glanced up from the table for the first time since being seated, her eyes locking with the Butler who couldn't resist smiling softly at her and for the first time since the accident his eyes glowed with warmth and affection. Blushing automatically as she realised how long he must have been watching her, Flora tore her eyes away staring down at her clasped hands, but she could still feel his gaze upon her and she was unable to resist glancing quickly back up her first smile of the day tugging at her lips as once more they locked glances.

By the end of the meal as the coffee cups were being quietly cleared away Jarvis had settled on a course of action, he would invite her to his office tonight and then over a brandy as her outright what was wrong, perhaps all she really needed was someone to take charge. Dabbing determinedly at his mouth Jarvis waited for the housekeeper to stand first, before moving to follow her out into the hallway.

"Mrs Ryan." He called softly, practically jarring Flora out of her reverie.

"Yes Mr Jarvis….Walter?" Flora added softly, as she beheld the somewhat nervous expression

"Flora." Jarvis replied, a small thrill of pleasure coursing through him at the simple pleasure of saying her given name and hearing her whisper his in that beautiful Irish lilt of hers. "I was wondering…I was hoping." He confessed jovially. "That you would grant me the pleasure of your company this evening?"

"I would love to." Flora replied softly, her checks flushing further when her voice came out sounding slightly too high for her ears.

Smiling broadly at such an obvious sign of the housekeeper's nerves, and in a desperate attempt to cover his own Jarvis babbled on. "Perhaps if it isn't too cold we could go for a walk around the garden or we could stay in, play some chess or cards…" Jarvis trailed off rubbing the back of his neck as he desperately tried to think of something, of anything else.

"A walk would be nice; I haven't had the chance to get as much fresh air as usual what with everything, the bad weather and all, and with any luck the stars will be out." Flora replied smiling encouragingly at the Butler.

"Indeed, unfortunately I have a meeting with Mr Adams in a few minutes so shall we say an hour in my office, that should give me plenty of time to set him straight and fetch my hat and coat from upstairs?" Jarvis added eagerly, his smile broadening as Flora quickly and enthusiastically nodded her agreement. "Excellent." Then suddenly before he could change his mind or she had the chance to move away, Walter reached out and caught her hand, squeezing it softly he brought it up to his lips, placing the tenderest of kisses atop her knuckles before gently releasing it and with a skip in his step striding back to his office intent on dealing with Andrew Adams as quickly as possible.

Gazing after the Butler's fleeing form it didn't take Flora Ryan long to realise she wasn't alone in the corridor, and as if by some supernatural sixth sense as the hairs on the back of her neck began to prickle and rise she realised who was standing watching her.

'Clap, Clap, Clap'

At the sound of the loud exaggerated clapping the housekeeper turned slowly around, her eyes searching for and finding Frank as he lounged against the wall by her office.

"Bravo!" The Valet added, taking a deep and embellished bow practically to the ground. "I really must commend you both that had to be the most sickeningly disgusting display of pathetic emotional drivel I have ever seen…" Frank trailed off before putting on a rather realistic impression of the butler. "We can go for a little walkies, or play chess or even cards…" Before changing and adopting a high pitched Irish lilt. "Oh Walter I'd love to, but really you've no need to bother if you just want to get your leg over you've only to ask, a couple of brandies and I'm anyone's!"

"How dare you!" Flora hissed, glancing up and down the corridor lest someone should overhear them. "That was a private conversation and not for perverted scum like you to listen in on!"

"Well then perhaps you shouldn't go holding it in a public corridor!" Frank retorted smugly. "And besides I would have thought you of all people wouldn't need to ask me, I dare because we both know you can't say anything to anyone about what I say and do, not unless you want your pathetic soppy Walter to find out about your not so secret secret! Because believe me there is precious little keeping my mouth shut as it is, and your continued unfriendly behaviour is hardly going to keep me on the straight and narrow; so I suggest for your own sake that you start treating me with a bit more respect!"

"Respect, you don't the first thing about it, I'm surprised you've even heard of the word let alone know what it means!" Flora retorted harshly, causing an outraged Frank to close the distance between them, grabbing her savagely by the arm and digging his nails into her soft flesh causing her to whimper in pain, cowering away from the valet.

"Now that is more like it!" Frank added, as he reached up to brush the stray tendrils of hair from her face.

"Let me go or I'll scream." Flora whispered as the valet brushed his fingers down from her jaw, along her neck and along the collar of her dress.

"And why, oh why dearest Flora would you want to do such a thing just as we're getting better acquainted?" Frank hissed nuzzling into her hair and breathing in her unique scent as his free hand moved to paw at her through her dress.

"Simple I would rather loose everything than give myself to you!" Flora snapped, seizing his hand and digging her nails into the back of his hand viciously until he reluctantly stopped the groping.

"Really?" Frank asked teasingly. "Well perhaps we should put that nice little theory of yours to the test then." And with that he turned striding off down the corridor the panicking housekeeper scampering after him. When he turned the corner he stopped dead in the shadows opposite the Butler's office, turning to the terrified housekeeper a confident smirk on his face. "Well Flora its make or break time, yes or no."

Shaking her head as tears ran down her face, the housekeeper glanced between the Valet and through the glass at where the oblivious Walter sat at his desk a large brandy in his hand as he worked on his figures. "Please don't…Surely we can compromise on this?" She begged.

Turning round his interest piqued the valet raised his eyebrow expectantly. "What sort of compromise did you have in mind?"

"Well perhaps I could pay you to keep quiet, I assure you cold hard cash would have a much more lasting appeal then any furtive quick fumble in a dark drafty cupboard!" Flora pleaded.

Smiling slightly at her suggestion Frank walked away from the door, heading back along the corridor to her office, opening the door for the housekeeper as he went, and closing it firmly behind them both. "I'm listening, but this had better be worth my time, not just some female trickery to delay me!"

"No I'm serious, I have some money saved up and there are the funds Walter gave me to go travelling…" Flora began her voice wavering slightly as she quickly calculated in her head how much she could scrape together.

"£100, I won't take a penny less!" Frank cut in, enjoying the immediate look of distress on the housekeepers face.

"Be serious you know I can't possibly have that sort of money…" Flora began.

"I am being serious Flora, personally I think that is rather cheap for my eternal silence, and besides you don't have to hand it over all at once. I'll have what you can give me now; I'm sure a clever woman such as yourself can think of a way to raise the rest." Frank retorted.

"But how?" The housekeeper gasped.

"Well you could always ask your lovely husband to be for a little pocket money!" Frank suggested smugly.

"A little pocket money!" Flora exclaimed. "£40 is hardly a little pocket money."

"Or…" Frank trailed off.

"Or what?" Flora asked hesitantly.

"Well I might be prepared to lower my price to £60, if that is all you can afford without raising suspicion but only on one condition." Frank baited her.

"I've already told you I won't let you touch me…" Flora began before Frank interrupted waving away her refusal as if it was nothing more than an idle threat.

"I'm not going to lay a finger on you, you have my word your honour," (an amused snort), "is safe, what I am suggesting his that you do me a little favour, it should hardly be taxing for a woman of your reported talent!" Frank added moving his hands to his belt which he slowly unbuckled as he sauntered across the room towards her, leaning back against her desk as his fingers moved to unbutton his trousers.

"What sort of favour?" Flora asked her voice wavering in panic as the valet untucked his shirt and continued to loosen his clothing.

Smiling broadly at the obvious panic in her voice, Frank paused for effect before answering. "Lets just say…It's probably a good thing you didn't have large dinner."

After Jarvis had sent Johnny to hunt out Adams, he went back to his office, his thoughts firmly focused on what he could possibly say to Flora during their little walk, and how exactly he should go about phrasing it. He knew that if he said the wrong thing, even in the slightest, it could scare her away again and after his recent behaviour he concluded that it wouldn't take very much to upset her and eventually no amount of affectionate glances would be able to convince her to give him yet another chance. The butler could tell that continued uncertainty surrounding his relationship with the housekeeper was lowering morale amongst the staff, so obviously it was his duty to try to make amends, both on a personal and professional level, but had he been any good at this affairs of the heart nonsense before his accident he wondered?

Had he let a woman, albeit beautiful, turn him into some sort of emotional wreck where his heart ruled his head and febrile tendencies took precedence over duty? He would have to find out somehow; maybe he could ask Mr Adams whether his professionalism had in any way been called into question recently. Jarvis had become so preoccupied with his thoughts as he sat slouched at his desk, his pocket watch open in his hand and running his thumb over the soft lock of hair he felt the need to caress every time he had a moment alone, he only noticed Adams standing in the doorway after the under-butler cleared his throat.

Jarvis instinctively snapping the watch shut and returning it to his pocket: Ah, Mr Adams, I hope I haven't interrupted your attendance on his Lordship.

Adams stepping inside and shutting the door behind him: No sir, he wanted an early night, he thinks he's coming down with a slight chill so he's retired with an even larger glass of brandy than normal.

Jarvis snatching up a piece of paper from his desk and rising to his feet: Good, hopefully we've heard the last of him for tonight. Now Mr Adams, this new maid Mrs Ryan has said yes to, you should have come to me first, I see the characters before her you know that!

Adams bouncing on his heels uncomfortably: Yes, I'm sorry Mr Jarvis, I just thought that because Lizzie has become Lady's maid to Lady Rebecca that Mrs Ryan might be the best person to……

Jarvis snatching his spectacles from his face and stalking up to Adams: Never mind what you thought, Mr Adams! If things are to remain professional around here you will follow procedure like everyone else do I make myself clear? And who is she anyway, this woman?

Adams closing his eyes, wondering for a moment whether to lie: She's….she's my sister, Mr Jarvis. But she has an excellent character from her old house as you can see sir, I wouldn't even suggest her if she didn't have experience.

Jarvis raising is eyebrows and snorting: Of that I've no doubt, Mr Adams, but where is her husband? Why is she down here at all?

Now this is where Adams DID have a plan – it all seemed so simple to him; well he had been lying about certain other things, hiding facts, for a long time now. One more little fib wouldn't hurt, Molly is highly competent and he was sure she would fit right in at Taplows, and she is his sister after all and he had run off and abandoned her. At least he could do right by one of the women in his life at the moment

Adams hanging his head and shaking it slowly: Such a tragedy – a complete waste. Her husband is dead I'm afraid, he was crushed down the pit by falling coal and so she is a poor widow who needs to return to service. He had been a successful tailor when they met, that is why she felt able to leave her position, but not long after their marriage Mr Watson had a terrible accident involving a tape measure and a large box of pins and he was never the same again. He gave up his job, a broken man, unable to look at those sharp metal bds again and went down the pit. It is so terrible, she can hardly talk about it.

Jarvis frowning and perching himself on the end of his desk: Hmm yes, it is terrible. Still I don't understand why your sister can't get a position slightly closer to home but never mind, none of my business really. Alright, Mr Adams, we will give her probation. She is to come to see me Monday at 12 noon, and no later but even though she is older she will have to take whatever bed she is given. Lizzie may be Lady Rebecca's maid now but she is still residing here with her mistress so space is at a premium.

Adams a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth in relief: Oh yes sir, she will understand, and she's not too fussed over which bed she spends her nights in, she'll take whichever one Mrs Ryan wants her in, and whatever position of course.

Immediately the implication of what he had just said registered with the under-butler, but Jarvis declined a snide comment as Mrs Watson was after all Mr Adams' sister so would seem in very poor taste to do so, but of course didn't stop the naughty thought which entered his mind. Damn, Jarvis cursed himself, I have to stop thinking such things – especially these sudden rather taboo and decidedly blue thoughts he had just conjured up of soft caresses in interesting places, skin exposed slowly and seductively, a gentle moan or two and then him walking in and watching Flora and a woman he had never even seen before just when they're right in the middle of ……..

Adams staring in confusion at the butler as he repeated his sentence AGAIN: Mr Jarvis are you listening to me? Do you want me for anything further? Are you alright sir, you're trembling and your breathing is most erratic.

Jarvis slamming down the sheet of paper and muttering furiously: Don't know what the hell's wrong with me! Ever since the accident I've……never mind, go about your duties Mr Adams.

Adams his eyebrows shooting up in genuine interest: Sir? Is there something I can help with?

Jarvis slouching back into his chair and sighing: I'm not at all sure how much we used to talk together before the accident, Mr Adams, but since it happened have you noticed – am I any different, do you think?

Adams slowly lowering himself into the chair opposite the desk: Different, sir? I'm not quite sure how you mean.

As if unable to decide through his awkwardness whether he felt like sitting or not, Jarvis hauled himself out of his chair again and wandered over to his unlocked cupboard, from which he pulled out an unopened bottle of brandy and two glasses. With a twist of the mouth as he pondered his response to Adams, Jarvis poured generous helpings of the liquor into the glasses before handing one to his under-butler then moving over to his window to stare up at the moonlight

Jarvis after raising the glass to his lips and slipping at it thoughtfully: Well, am I a little more – you know. Do I appear to be lacking humour.

Adams sniffing and smiling dryly: Are you a little more moody, I presume you mean sir.

Jarvis a little shocked by Adams' frankness, but also grateful for it: Well yes, I suppose that is what I mean. Ever since the accident I've felt that because I have been unable to make sense of some things I have become very frustrated….

Adams chuckling knowingly: Are you sure that is the only type of frustration you have been experiencing lately, sir? Any warm-blooded male would indeed find himself lacking not only in humour if he had until recently been experiencing certain pleasures, even if his memory fails to recall such things.

Jarvis his hand beginning to shake so much he had to clatter his glass down: I don't really know what you mean, I er…..do you really think so?

The butler turned to stare questioningly at Adams, who finished off his brandy and smiled weakly. Jarvis wasn't the only one to be feeling a little dissatisfied in a certain aspect of his life recently so he had every sympathy with him

Adams shrugging, his brow furrowing as he secretly recalled his own desperation: I mean that your body had become accustomed to a physical activity of sorts, but all of a sudden that wee indulgence stopped. Your mind may have temporarily forgotten but your…..your particulars may not forget so easily. Sir. If you are feeling a bit below par that may be because your evening entertainment hasn't been as readily available as it might have previously been, no matter how much you may try to compensate for it.

Jarvis huffing, growing slightly pink with embarrassment at discussing such sensitivities: Well I should be able to put such sinful urges aside, and that is exactly what I intend to do, don't you agree Mr Adams?

Adams rising to his feet and catching Jarvis' eyes mutters quietly: Well maybe – maybe you should give in to them, you may find it useful in the long-run, may jog a few memories for you? It may also help you lose some of that weight you've been putting on recently!

Jarvis folding his arms self-consciously over his stomach and hissing: Mr Adams! You are above your station to say such things to me about my size, and it is hardly gentlemanly to suggest I go into town!

Adams stifling a small laugh, his expression deadly serious: Who said anything about town, sir? I don't see why you would need to travel all that way when all you have to do is walk along a few corridors and up some stairs to, I am sure, a very willing participant. If you don't mind me saying so sir, you two appeared most compatible before your memory lapse and you were both very much in love. She may very well be feeling your absence as much as you are feeling hers – wouldn't you much rather be feeling something else, both physically and emotionally? Let your instincts take over?

Jarvis storming over to the door and flinging it open, his fury raging: Mr Adams I suggest you now leave, your advice is most inappropriate and if you think I am that sort of gentleman then you are very much mistaken!

The under-butler nodded and took his leave, his work here well and truly done. He knew full well that Jarvis didn't really think his advice inappropriate, but he concluded that his denial wouldn't last very long and he would be upstairs in the housekeeper's arms before the night was out. Adams paused outside the door, considering whether to follow his own advice and venture up to Rebecca's room in the dead of night and convince her to succumb to the comfort he could give her after the events of recent days. He would be a fool not to even try, so he wandered back to his room to help himself to a couple more drinks – just enough to prepare him but not to hamper his performance.

Inside his pantry, Jarvis mulled over Adams' rather interesting words of wisdom. How did his under-butler think he would react to such a suggestion? Did he think he would say 'alright then, sounds like a great idea, wait here while I rush upstairs and roger the housekeeper senseless, then I'll come back and we can talk about next week's duty roster over another brandy'? He had completely forgotten that he and Mrs Ryan were due to walk together very shortly, but this could be blamed on the third large glass of brandy he was currently gulping rather than the fault of a freezing pond.

Maybe Adams was right, he thought, closing his eyes as his mind raced with images he had for days been trying to stifle. He could go up to her room, go inside, see what happens and if things developed naturally between them then so be it. Slamming down his glass defiantly, Jarvis breathes in deeply as he pours another drink – one to down to steady his nerves just when he is outside her door and ready to show her that he hadn't forgotten how to be a lover after all. He stood up, his mind a little hazy and rather light-headed and snatching up the glass leaves his room after momentarily reflecting on the cause of action he was about to undertake.

Once he reached her door, for a second he felt he couldn't go through with it no matter how desperate for it he was. What if she went completely mad and slapped him, or screamed the place down until someone came running to her rescue? No, that was a ridiculous thing to think, he thought shaking his head as he stared at his brandy, all the signs were there, she had given him nothing but encouragement through her looks and even the slightest touch between them had been undoubtedly filled with intense desire and sexual chemistry. It was now or never.

In double-quick time, Jarvis knocked back his drink and placed the glass carefully on the ledge next to him – he had to get this out of the way before the alcohol began to affect him too much and he proved completely useless to her. He tapped lightly on the door, but to his absolute disappointment no voice called out to him from behind it. Frowning, Jarvis knocked again, a little louder this time, but the door handle turned without much effort and he was able to open it a crack and peer round it. The room was completely dark, the curtains tightly pulled over the window and not a lit candle in sight. Quietly he called out to Flora as his eyes adjusted to the poor visibility inside the room, but just as he was about to give up and shut it again he could make out a figure lying on the bed, facing away from him.

Jarvis whispering as he stepped further into the room: Flora? Are you alright?

The housekeeper gave no reply, obviously fast asleep on her bed but still fully clothed. Quietly Jarvis tip-toed into the room, his heart thumping in his chest and his mind beginning to spin wildly at his own boldness as the alcohol began to take hold. He stood in the dark for a moment, staring down at Flora's sleeping form and wondering whether he should just forget it all and leave, she would never know he had been there so no harm would be done. Maybe he could see her tomorrow night instead, when he wasn't rather intoxicated and she wasn't so tired……..

Flora moaned slightly and stretched, interrupting Jarvis' confused thoughts, but she did not wake. Well, he didn't think she had anyway. Without even thinking it through, the butler sat slowly and carefully on the edge of her bed as she sprawled on her back, her face tilted toward him and her chest heaving gently as she slept. He could barely make out her features, but the moonlight shone through a well-placed gap in the curtains and he was able to make out the profile of her slender body and he found himself completely rooted to the spot, unable to leave even if he wanted to. Which he didn't.

Jarvis shut his eyes for a moment, a slight wave of nausea building in the pit of his stomach, but he pushed the alcohol-induced feeling aside and reached out to her face, brushing his hand gently down her cheek and unsure whether he wished to rouse her from her slumber or not. She looked too peaceful, well what he could see of her anyway, although slightly hazy vision didn't help the situation. He could tell that she had untied her hair, and it draped beautifully over her shoulders and reminded him of Sleeping Beauty – well he knew what the handsome prince had to do to wake his fairytale sweetheart, so with a small smile he leant forward and searching out her lips in the dark softly kissed them. Suddenly Flora's eyes flew open and she gasped in fright, pushing Jarvis away and scrambling up her bed, letting out a small shriek as she did so

Jarvis leaping backwards in sudden shock: It's alright Flora, it's me Walter! I'm sorry I didn't mean to startle you!

Flora squinting through the darkness and panting: Well you did, I thought you were…..! You just scared me, creeping in here, what did you think you were doing!

Jarvis loosening his neck tie as the heat began to rise up his neck: I was just….we were meant to go for a walk remember, I thought I would come and look for you but it was all dark, I thought you might have been sick! I shall leave right away……

Flora reaching out and taking Jarvis' hand as he moved swiftly towards the door: No! No, please. Don't leave. I just thought you were….an intruder.

Jarvis his fingers automatically wrapping around hers: An intruder who would be so bold as to kiss you, Flora? I would rather a burglar stole the whole of his Lordship's Derby than one single kiss from you.

Flora pulling him down so he was seated firmly on her bed again: That is very sweet, considering how obviously intoxicated you are! I am sorry, I must've drifted off, it's been a very busy day with one thing and another, I would much rather have an early night if that would be agreeable with you.

Jarvis smiling a little disappointedly through the darkness: Of course, I understand. It hasn't been easy for you lately and I don't suppose I have helped much. I shall see you at breakfast, when I hope to be a little more sober.

Flora squeezing his hand even more tightly, her voice soft and inviting: No I meant I want an early night – and I want you to join me. If you would do me the extremely great pleasure of doing so, if you can manage it of course. I hope I'm not out of turn thinking that was what you came here for in the first place?

Jarvis' decision-making skills had rapidly abandoned him after the final brandy, so if Flora could evaluate the situation and draw a conclusion on his behalf then that was certainly fine by him. He sought out her chin with his finger and urged her lips towards his, and she responded most keenly and leaned into him, letting his lips envelope hers in an all-consuming kiss. Moving on top of her he pushed her back down the bed and slowly began to unfasten her dress, their lips still entwined, but Flora gently pushed him backwards, breaking their kiss as she gasped a little for air

Flora running her finger over his lips: I don't want this just to be over in two minutes Walter, I want you to undress first so we can take it slowly.

Jarvis gulping as sweat began to form on his face and neck in anticipation: Oh of course, however you want it Flora my dear, it's up to you, I will undress it'll only take me a minute!

Flora giggled naughtily, but even by the time she had taken off most of her clothes and had found her way under the covers Walter seemed to be still struggling with his. She rolled over away from him, pretending to have become so bored with waiting that she had fallen asleep, but it was so funny to watch this rather drunk butler desperately trying to pull off his socks that she couldn't resist peeping over her shoulder and just about making him out in the corner of the room. For all his intoxicated clumsiness, she needed him tonight more than ever, she wanted to feel his comfort, know he is next to her and keeping her safe and warm. He could help her forget the horror of the past few days, Frank's leering face and wandering hands making her sick to her stomach, she needed to feel the wonderful familiarity of Walter's caress, his loving kisses and the intense pleasure their lovemaking created.

Finally, after tugging his shirt over his head and nearly stumbling into Flora's wardrobe, Jarvis climbed into the bed next to her and nibbled at her shoulder, but when there was absolutely no reaction from the woman who had practically begged him to stay the night he huffed and poked her where a second ago his lips had been

Flora shifting and moving her foot down his shin: Urgh you're cold, and I'm not a pin cushion Mr Corey. You won't get very far if that's all you're going to do.

Jarvis snorting, a little fed up with talking to her back: Well what do you want me to do?

Flora stifling a small laugh and turning to face him, her voice low and sultry: You mean you can't even remember how to treat a woman in her own bed? Do I have to draw you a map? Oh and I hope you've kept your lovely red braces handy, I hope I can bring back more than memories for you. And I also hope that you've brought your brandy too, although if you drink any more I don't think I will be able to put you or it to very good use!

Jarvis leaning up and over her: My, my you ARE hoping for a lot of things tonight aren't you? I hope I don't disappoint, not being able to remember how good I might have been before, but I will try my best as one thing I CAN remember is that Mrs Ryan only likes hard workers and I wouldn't want her to think that I wasn't putting as much effort as possible into the task in hand.

Without warning, Flora flung her arms around the butler's neck and pulled him down so their lips met firmly again, releasing them only so his could wander over her face and neck with the most tender of kisses. Finally both of them could release their most intimate of frustrations while bathed in the moonlight, their hands searching each other like it was their first time together all over again, that first exciting touch between new lovers, and for Jarvis in a way it was.

Jarvis woke with a start, his head pounding from a bit too much brandy the night before and a strange haze over his eyes. Raising his hand to shield his eyes from the harsh morning light that was flooding the room it took a few seconds for him to register his location. Trying to focus despite the lingering remnants of double vision, he glanced over at the bedside table expecting to find his usual morning after glass of water but much to his annoyance the glass had already been emptied. Huffing as loudly as his throbbing head would allow, Jarvis carefully swung his legs out of bed, his hands searching beside the bed for his dressing gown. It took rather longer than normal for him to realise that his dressing gown wasn't where it usually was, in fact it wasn't there at all, nor was anything else of his! Suddenly panic gripped him and the Butler forced his eyes open wide, ignoring the increased pain in his temple that the harsh daylight provoked. And in that moment Jarvis realised exactly where he was.

It was as the Butler was sitting on the edge of the bed, the tangled sheets clutched around him to preserve his modesty that the door to the room opened quickly and in strode practically the last person Jarvis was hoping to see, the absolute worse would have been his mother.

"Mrs Ryan." Jarvis squeaked, as foggy memories from the night before began to surface, of drinking in his office, a quick repartee with his under butler and then…. Jarvis had to stifle the reflexive moan; he had decided to prove to his under butler that he was still a man to be reckoned with and so had stormed off to prove his manliness with his fiancée. He could remember staggering upstairs, of finishing the bottle of brandy for Dutch courage before barging into her room, but after that it was all hazy.

"Good Morning Walter, personally I would have thought after last night we would be able to dispense with such formalities." Flora teased as she sauntered over to him, sitting down beside him on the bed and covering his hand with hers.

"Why last night?" Jarvis repeated a deep flush appearing on his cheeks and travelling rapidly down his neck, whilst trying to covertly move their joined hands from the most stimulating location of his lap.

"Oh come now Walter, I mean it's not like you to be so modest and a performance like that was hardly something a woman would forget…" Flora trailed off smiling at him in an almost bashful manner that the Butler found most appealing.

"Well it was nothing…" Jarvis replied, straining his already unreliable memory for any stray image or exchange; this couldn't be happening again, the first time since the accident that they had spent the night together and he still couldn't bloody well remember it.

"It was hardly nothing!" Flora replied giggling playfully as she moved her hand to trace up and down the Butlers toned bicep. "In fact I would go so far as to say despite the somewhat unorthodox start last night was one of our most enjoyable experiences, I mean I always knew you were inventive but I never realised you had such stamina! I'm afraid we both got more than a little carried away…I had quite the shock bathing this morning, you'd left bite marks in the most bizarre of places."

"Really?" Jarvis asked automatically, his curiosity getting the better of him.

"Yes really, if we aren't to busy later I'd be delighted to show you a few of the more easily accessible ones." Flora trailed off giggling attractively, before biting her bottom lip as her beautiful eyes finally seemed to register the real state of his undress. "Of course we do have a few spare minutes now…." She added softly.

For a moment Jarvis paused, uncertain but then the decision was taken out of his hands as the housekeeper lent forward covering his lips with hers in the tenderest of kisses, her hands running over his chest and up into his hair. At the touch of her lips and the intimate caress of her fingers Jarvis had a sudden bolt of recollection, of drunkenly undressing and joining her in bed, of passionate kisses and caresses that seemed to merge into each other, and even some hazy memory about braces of all things. But that the Butler dismissed as some bizarre product of his own addled brain, after all who would ever connect the ravishing creature held tightly in his embrace with something so mundane. Suddenly impatient the Jarvis pushed the housekeeper back against the rumpled bed, his hands make short work of her dress's fastenings as he soberly kissed his way down her flawless skin, determined that this time he would not only get the girl but live to remember every detail!

An hour or so later a very flustered Flora Ryan made her way through the main body of the house, skirting a group of gossiping housemaids Flora purposefully ignored the shrill titter that went up amongst the group as they spotted the housekeeper. Catching snippets of conversation as she passed, it didn't take long for her to realise it was the Butler's evening visit to her quarters that was the source of their amusement; apparently they had Johnny to thank for this latest round of gossip as he had spotted the inebriated butler muttering to himself as he paced nervously in front of her door and had lost no time spreading it around the staff. Sighing deeply, Flora smiled and shook her head a bit of household gossip was nothing when she thought about what she had gained, so engrossed in her own ponderings she didn't notice the young footman dogging her steps. Heading up the main staircase Flora was preoccupied with thoughts on how to preserve the delicate balance they had managed to recapture, she just couldn't let Frank or anyone ruin that and so she had only one option left.

"Mrs Ryan…" Will called out softly as he drew level with the housekeeper, causing her to start slightly from her daydream.

"Yes Will what is it I'm very busy…" Flora barked out as she strode down the corridor the nervous footman scampering at her heels.

"Can we talk…" Will started, "in private, it's important."

"No I don't think so!" Flora snapped nastily, stopping suddenly and whirling round to face the footman. "I think you've done enough talking already over the past few days!" She added struggling to keep her temper.

Will froze his eyes widening as he realised the truth behind her words. "I…I didn't mean…I didn't have any choice."

"OH Really!" Flora hissed. "Well I'm so sorry that you were inconvenienced, did you for one second think about me in all of this?…I somehow doubt it and now I have to put up with that monster holding this over me, if you had any idea the nightmare I've been living…"

"Well maybe I can help with that…" Will began closing the distance between them and reaching out tentatively to brush her sleeve.

"Don't help me, there is nothing you can do, as usual I have to deal with everything myself, I can't believe I actually thought I could trust you…" Flora began backing away from him as she glanced up and down the corridor terrified that at any moment the valet in question would come stalking round the corner a smug knowing smile on his face.

"You can trust me, you have too, Flora I know!" Will stated earnestly glancing down from her eyes to her stomach and back again. "You can depend on me when the time comes I won't let you down, I don't walk away from my responsibilities…."

"Your responsibilities?" Flora began chuckling humourlessly. "Oh you are priceless, is that what this sudden outburst of concern for my welfare is all about you being afraid that if Walter abandons me you'll feel obliged to provide for me and my bd child."

"No I want to be there, I mean I have a right to be involved…" Will began insistently.

"What right?" Flora retorted confused.

"I heard you talking to Felix, I know the truth why you were so afraid of telling me but you don't have to be I'm delighted by the idea and we can make this work; you know I've never stopped caring about you and this way surely Frank has no hold over you, over us I mean, the three of us." Will replied softly glancing around to make sure they weren't being overlooked or overheard before walking up to the stunned housekeeper and seizing her hand. "I promise I won't let you down again if only you'd give me the chance, surely you owe it to the baby to at least try, we can leave go anywhere even back to Ireland if you want, be close to your family…"

For a moment Flora stood stunned to silence, but then she started to laugh, tears running down her face as she leant back against the wall for support, holding her stomach for fear of splitting in two. "Oh you're priceless…you actually think…"

"But I heard you, you said…" Will began blustering.

"I said I was worried about telling the father but I meant Walter, I was afraid that after the accident he might not want the same things as before, a home a family but things are different now…" Flora added softly a tender smile tugging at her lips.

"oh…I see…I feel like such an idiot." Will muttered, tugging distractedly at his cravat as he tried to hold back the bitter tears of disappointment, glancing back down the corridor as he heard the first aristocrat's bell of the morning. "I'll go see to that then." He added nodding down the corridor unable to meet Flora's eye.

"Yes you'd better." Flora replied softly, pausing for a moment to watch the dejected, embarrassed footman slink off down the hallway before adding warningly "Not a word Will to anyone this time!"

Glancing back at her Will simply nodded before turning and dashing off down the corridor. Sighing and shaking her head Flora finally returned to her original quest and without thinking she pushed open the door she had been heading towards, expecting to find it a flurry of activity associated with the morning preparations of the aristocracy with lady's maids scurrying about fixing hair and clothing but instead she was greeted by a sight she had never expected to see, the bare bottom of one Andrew Adams.

"MR ADAMS!" Flora screeched out unable to stop herself in time.

Startled to say the least the under butler in question jumped a foot in the air, whirling round to see the aghast housekeeper standing in the doorway a look of pure horror on her face as she caught sight of something else she had never needed to spy before managing to cover her eyes. Panicking Adams backed up to Rebecca's bed grabbing the bed curtains and trying desperately to cover his modesty before finding his own voice.

"Jesus lassie what the hell are you doing here?"

"Looking for Rebecca." The housekeeper replied, desperately trying to keep her eyes averted whilst Andrew fumbled around on the floor for his trousers, whilst one hand still desperately clung to the curtain.

"And this was so urgent you never thought to knock?" Adams retorted angrily, his embarrassment at being caught in the nude quickly turned into annoyance at yet another sign of the housekeeper interfering where she didn't belong.

However before she could answer the door to Rebecca's bathroom was flung open and a very damp aristocrat came dashing out wearing nothing but towel clutched around her. "What on earth is going on…?" She started but the picture told her everything she needed to know. "Flora?" She began but the housekeeper cut her off.

"I'm sorry I didn't think to knock…" She began her own temper starting to rise as the shock began to wear off. "I mean you are supposed to be downstairs supervising the lower servants, how was I to know you had decided to yet again shirk your duties?"

"What so that gives you the god given right to barge in where you're so obviously not wanted?" Adams retorted tugging on his trousers roughly and buttoning then furiously. "And you have the nerve to lecture me on manners!"

"Well at least I know the meaning of the word unlike some I can mention!" Flora snapped.

"Really?" Adams asked. "Well since you're so clever perhaps you'd can to explain the term, interfering old biddy, who should really learn to stay out of other people's business!" He added harshly, ignoring the gasps of shock from both the women present, as memories of the many times Flora had intervened keeping him from Rebecca surfaced. After all it was mostly the housekeeper's fault that he'd had to wait till last night and now this most perfect of occasions had been ruined, and it was all her fault.

"Please Andrew, Flora…" Rebecca began placating but she was screamed down by a furious Flora Ryan.

"How dare you speak to me like that, when I think all that I've had to put up from you Andrew Adams, of all the god-awful mean things you've done and every time I've forgiven you, how dare you call me that?" Flora retorted storming across the room, practically screaming in the under-butler's face. "You really have the morals of an ally cat Andrew Adams, poor Lord Hugo isn't even buried and already your shacking up with his widow, decided to cash in your chips as it were. You're nothing but a cruel thug; I should have let Walter throw you out months ago well let me assure you from now on I won't be intervening on your behalf…"

"Now Flora you don't mean that…" Rebecca tried once more but again neither of the servants acknowledged her.

"Oh REALLY, well I'm gutted to hear that!" Adams retorted mockingly, before continuing. "And I suppose the number of times I've intervened to save your pathetic on off relationship with Jarvis doesn't count? Dear god if it wasn't for me he'd have let you disappear off into the sunset with Kraus not to mention the fact that you would have had a much quieter evening last night. I practically had to shove the poor man out the door and now I can see why, I should have done him a favour and let him get quietly pd in his office instead! At least that way the poor chap wouldn't be tied to a over the hill harridan such as yourself, I really pity Jarvis sometimes with the only prospect of an old barren…."

SLAP The blow rang out loud and clear across the room, and Adams stood in shock for a moment before raising his hand to his stinging cheek, a look of barely contained fury on his face and it took of his restraint to resist returning the compliment. However if he was showing such restraint Rebecca was not. Marching over to the housekeeper she seized her roughly by the arm, and showing remarkable strength she dragged her towards the door.

"Get out!" Rebecca demanded. "I don't know what is wrong with the pair of you but I won't have the peace of my bedroom disturbed by your petty squabbling…I am respectfully requesting that you leave Mrs Ryan, this instant, and I do not expect you to return until I have cause to summon you!" She added coldly.

"What?" Flora replied aghast at her friend's icy expression and demeanour, how could Rebecca be taking Adams's side against her? "Becca you can't mean it, he started it!"

"No you started it, I didn't ask you to attend me this morning and then you have the nerve to lay a hand on the man I love and expect me to take your side? I partly blame myself, in the past I have obviously been overly friendly and this has caused you to forget your station, however that will not happen again do I make myself clear?" Rebecca added opening the door and practically throwing the housekeeper out. "And if you ever threaten or lay a finger on him again…."

"How dare, how dare you speak to me like that…" Flora gasped her eyes bright with tears as she backed away. "After all that I've done for you both, and to think I came here looking for help….Well so much for friendship, I will do as you request Lady Rebecca, the pair of you deserve each other." And with as much dignity as she could muster the housekeeper turned and strode off down the corridor.

After breakfast the entire staff gathered in the lower servants hall, the housekeeper prowling up and down the ranks inspecting her maids appearance, and for once the girls had the sense to keep their mouths shut and their eyes lowered, sensing the housekeeper's foul mood a mile off. However unfortunately for Lizzie it was that precise moment that she came dashing into the hall her bonnet askew and tufts of hair visible round her forehead, as she had only just arrived back from attending Rebecca.

"Miss McDuff so glad you could join us, I do hope you've not begun picking up slovenly manners, you have not as yet left our employ and I would hate to have to issue you with an official warning and a dock in your wages!" The housekeeper barked.

"I'm sorry Mrs Ryan." Lizzie squeaked, her eyes wide with panic at the thought of loosing any of her hard earned wages, especially when it was hardly her fault. "But Lady Rebecca rose later than usual…."

"Excuses, excuses sometimes I think you take more and more after that father of yours…." Flora began but she was suddenly interrupted when in walked both the Butler and the Under-Butler in question, who sent the housekeeper such a smug look that she stopped reprimanding Lizzie in favour of glaring accusingly back at Adams.

"Ah Mrs Ryan." Jarvis began jovially, at first missing the look of barely contained fury on the housekeeper's face, his upbeat tone subsiding when he did indeed manage to catch her eye. "Is everyone ready?" He added a slightly nervous twinge to his voice as he automatically assumed that scornful look was for his benefit.

"Well most of us are Mr Jarvis, some of us are still aware of our responsibilities!" Flora retorted, still glaring at Adams who she held solely responsible for that fiasco upstairs, what Rebecca saw in him…Well actually she now had the answer to that and it certainly wasn't his sparkling personality that had appealed to her ladyship, but she had never thought Rebecca so shallow as to put her own physical satisfaction above their friendship.

"Actually Sir Mrs Ryan isn't completely correct William isn't ready as he's still attending his lordship, I've instructed him to catch us up as soon as he can, it should do the little rotter good he needs the exercise!" Mr Adams cut in favouring the housekeeper with a smug grin.

"Good good." Jarvis replied but his heart wasn't in it as he turned and led the party along the lane to the church, they had a good half an hours walk ahead of them and from what he remembered Reverend Postlebury was a stickler for punctuality. As they walked into the village Jarvis glanced frequently at the housekeeper, despite everything he still had not found the time to discuss the wedding with her but surely being the sensible woman he took her for she would understand and accept his decision to postpone it? After all they had plenty of time once he got back from India to resume their relationship and until then what could be the harm in a few naughty nightly fumbles, she had certainly been most enthusiastic in response to that idea both last night and this morning and if his luck was in tonight as well. Even so perhaps he ought to mention it to her before he spoke to the vicar and cancelled the wedding on Thursday. Gradually and as circumspectly as he could manage the Butler sidled off towards the housekeeper falling naturally in step beside her and lowering his voice so only she could hear him.

"You look positively radiant this morning!" He whispered causing Flora to jolt from her own personal ponderings, as she worried about dealing with Frank.

"Oh thank you." She muttered, managing a small half smile, before her eyes clouded over once more

"I was just wondering if well…." Jarvis began unsure how to phrase his suggestion so it would provoke the best response.

"If what?" Flora asked softly, as she tried to throw off her melancholy, she shouldn't be letting a stupid fight with some silly chit of a girl upset her like this, what was she thinking trying to be friends with a Lady it was bound to end like this, as soon as they had an argument Rebecca using her position against her.

However the housekeeper's sombre mood was not lost on the Butler and he paused for a moment, reaching out and resting his hand lightly on hers to make her turn to face him, whilst the rest of the staff thronged past them into the churchyard. "Flora are you quite alright, the last time I saw you, well you looked a lot happier than you do now, have I done or said something I shouldn't have or has someone else?"

However before the housekeeper could reply, the pair were suddenly and rudely interrupted by a loud cough from behind. "Now now we can't be having this, you're holding people up, surely there is plenty of time for exchanging sweet nothings in the evening, on the way to church of all places seems hardly appropriate." Frank jokily exclaimed, and embarrassed at being so exposed and ridiculed the Butler turned and with a slight huff stormed off following the rest of the staff inside the church, leaving the valet and housekeeper alone outside in the graveyard.

Falling in beside her Frank seized her elbow roughly, dragging her off the path and pushing her up against one of the large gravestones before leaning down and whispering in the housekeeper's ear. "So dearest Flora when am I going to get my lovely money?"

"I told you last night I can let you have £20 in cash tomorrow evening, I need to wait for the cheque to clear in my account before I can draw out the rest, but I should be able to get it to you by the end of the week…" Flora replied hesitantly

"And the extra £40?" Frank hissed, "I thought you said you had a plan? Why else would you have turned down my generous discounted offer."

"Generous!" Flora exclaimed loudly, clapping a hand over her mouth in an effort to keep things secret.

"Oh I think it was extremely generous, considering the going rate for such services is 6 pence with dearest Rosie in the Village, and £40 for going down on your knees for a few minutes, you really should be flattered Flora dear that I value you so highly!" Frank retorted. "Of course the offer still stands but I must warn you the longer you delay in getting me my money then the more exacting my demands will be, surely it would be so much easier for all our sakes just to give me what I originally wanted?" He stopped, brushing his free hand down her rosy cheek and then her slender neck.

"No!" Flora retorted trying to pull out of his iron grip and join the rest of the village in the relative sanctuary of the church, hoping desperately that some latecomer would interrupt them.

"But I'd much rather have you any day, we could disappear now just the two of us everyone is in church and I doubt we'd be missed and I know a lovely little secluded grove just off in the woods there…." Frank began his voice trembling slightly as his imagination ran away with him, his eyes raking openly up and down the housekeeper's slender frame. "You could scream your head off and we'd still have complete privacy." He added pushing his body against her and pinning her hands back against the tombstone as Flora tried to claw herself free. "Why don't I show you and then you can make your mind up?"

"Let me go or I'll scream!" Flora warned tersely as the valet practically heaved her off her feet and though the graveyard to the side gate.

"And how is anyone going to hear you with all that racket going on?" Frank retorted smugly, nodding over his shoulder at the church which was now full of worshipers singing the lord's praises in all manner of pitches and keys. "No you're going to come along with me, surely that'll be more fun than sitting in that drafty place trying to keep your eyes open?"

"But we had a deal!" Flora retorted, desperately.

"Well I'm changing it and believe me Flora this time I expect to be paid in full!"

A few minutes later and an exhausted footman practically collapsed against the church gate, panting loudly in order to catch his breath Will staggered along the path to the double doors pushing his ear up against it to listen. Pausing for a moment Will caught several muttered words, something about the seven deadly sins, one of the good reverends favourite topics, and today they would be covering vanity, well the silly old fool should be well enough acquainted with that by now! Deciding it would be professional suicide to enter the church during the reverend's sermon Will decided to hang about outside until the next hymn then slip in the back when no one was looking.

Walking round the side of the church out of sight and the biting wind he leant back against the wall pulling out his pipe, which he began to fill intent on a nice leisurely smoke, however suddenly his peaceful solitude was shattered as he heard a weak definitely female yelp. Glancing around Will's attention was immediately drawn to the wood across from the church, he just caught sight of some laboured movements and a flash of white and green, it was if someone was carrying something very heavy or someone. Immediately Will started towards the wood, his pipe dropped forgotten on the grass as he sprinted forward, not even bothering with the gate he scrambled over the wall, determined to find out exactly what was going on.

Meanwhile in the wood the housekeeper was doing everything within her power to escape the Valet, she had tried punching and kicking him but still he refused to loosen his hold on her, fighting off her every attack with a look of smug amusement and carrying her further away from the church with a minimum of effort.

"Don't worry Flora dearest we're almost there, I know you're as anxious as I am to see this business finished, although I can't promise to be quick a man has to maintain his standards after all. I couldn't have you comparing me unfavourably with all your other bed partners now can I?"

Then suddenly they stopped and Flora looked around, it was exactly as he had described a small secluded grove surrounded all sides, except the small gap they had squeezed though by thick course blackberry bushes which wild and tangled grew to over her head height blocking off all but tiny glimpses of the open woodland beyond. "See delightfully private, people could walk right past only a few feet away from us and they'd never see us." He added as he finally released her.

Pausing for a moment the housekeeper suddenly darted away from him searching for any gap in the hedgerow large enough for her to squeeze through, but the further round the grove she went the more hysterical she became, he had her trapped the only way out was the way they had came in and Frank was standing smugly in front of that his arms crossed mockingly as if waiting for her to some to that very same conclusion. "You have to let me go!"

"Or What?" Frank retorted closing the gap between them. "Go ahead scream at the top of your lungs no one is going to hear you and even if they did by the time they find us I'll have gotten what I want from you, why don't you just accept the inevitable like a good girl and just do as you're told. You can start by taking that dress off, after all although black suits you I'd much rather see more of that luminescent skin of yours."

"Never!" Flora hissed, making one last futile dash for the gap, but all to easily the valet caught her playfully round the waist picking her up and rolling them both down in the grass before pinning her down beneath him.

"My my if only your beloved Mr Jarvis could see you now!" Frank added evilly as he leant down to kiss her but Flora managed to get a hand free and slapped him hard around the face. Determined not to be thwarted this time Frank savagely seized her arms before practically carrying the struggling housekeeper over to a nearby tree. Pushing her up against it he seized her wrists, pushing them painfully behind her back until he could wrap them round the tree trunk, holding them both secure with one hand he reached up to his necktie which he began to unfasten.

"Now Flora if you're not going to play nicely then I'm going to have to restrain you for your own safety, if I don't you might be tempted to do something stupid like that friend of yours though somehow I doubt there are any handy vases out here!" He chuckled as he pulled off his necktie, pushing himself up against the housekeeper as he lashed her wrists together effectively staking her to the spot.

Once he was sure she was really secure, doubly and then triply knotting her restraints he pulled away so he could gaze at his handiwork, smiling in delight Frank lost no time in moving back towards her. His hands free to move over her body at will he cupped her cheeks between his hands brushing the tears that stained them away before suddenly covering her lips with his own and savagely plundering her mouth. Only pulling away when the resourceful housekeeper managed to clamp her teeth hard on his lip drawing blood, angry Frank pulled away wiping at his damaged lip and smearing blood on the back of his hand.

"Now that wasn't a smart thing to do, here's me trying to go easy on you, making an effort to make it enjoyable instead of just forcing myself on you and this is how you repay me?" He hissed moving back to her, grabbing a hand full of her dark locks and wrenching them savagely causing Flora to cry out in pain. "Oh if you think that hurts just you wait till I get really going!"

"Frank please stop, I can get you the money, even more if you want it…" Flora began but she stopped when the Valet began to laugh hysterically.

"You think this is about money? Well its not it's about something far more important than that, this is about revenge, on both you and that stupid sweetheart of yours. You're his only real weakness you know, and whatever I do to you he'll feel it just as deep he'll never forgive himself for not being able to protect you and deep down you'll never be able to forgive him for failing you either. He'll never be able to touch you without the knowledge that where he's been I've been that you were mine just as much as you can ever be his and that will eat him up."

"Why?" Flora managed to gasp. "What did we ever do to you Frank that you should hate us so much?"

"Why don't you ask your lover boy that yourself, I have far more important things to be getting on with." Frank retorted, his hands moving to the fastening s of her dress which he roughly unfastened, exposing her thin cotton chemise and corset which he set to with gusto, tugging at the lacings until he could pull the offending garment away from her body.

He then lent forward placing ravenous kisses along her alabaster skin his fingers looping under the collar of her dress which he began to work as far down her arms as he could manage exposing the slender straps of her thin chemise. Pulling away Frank ran his hands along her collar bone and down to her the tops of her breasts, skimming along the top of her chemise he looked on delighted as the housekeeper shivered in the cold winter's air her exposed skin goosepimpling, his eyes locked on hers savouring the desperate pleading glance but just as he was about to strip her completely there was a rustle from the bushes and out crashed a very scratched and bloody William Forest.