Servants Series 7

by ss9

The patter of tiny feet at Taplows but will everything go as well as planned? How is Molly coping with her new duties and how is Walter coping with a hormonally charged wife.

8. Episode 6b

Early the next morning Flora Corey shifted distractedly around in her fitful sleep her hands clawing at the bed clothes as she subconsciously sought comfort from her husband's normally soothing presence, however this morning instead of a warm body lying beside her, her clutching hands found nothing but air and cold sheets.

"Walter help….Don't let them take him….WALTER!" Flora cried out in her sleep, waking herself up with the volume of her last appeal. For a moment she simply lay there panic griping her very being as her eyes flickered round the room expecting the figures from her nightmare to be there standing over her, lecturing her as they stole her baby telling her it was all her own fault, that she didn't deserve to keep her baby not after loosing the first one in such a foolhardy way. As if sensing its mother's distress the child moved inside her, delivering a well placed kick or punch which started Flora out of her cycle of panic and into her motherly role. Taking a deep breath to purge her fears Flora rubbed her hand across her belly whispering soothing words, which after a few minutes seemed to do the trick, it was then she could turn her mind to other matters…Just where the hell was Walter?

Glancing across at the delicate little clock Emily and Felix had brought them as a wedding present Flora gasped at the earliness of the hour, where on earth could he be at five thirty in the morning? If there had been a call for him she would have woken as she had never been a deep sleeper, so the only explanation is that he had wanted to sneak out without waking her. At such a thought Flora couldn't stifle the stab of fear that struck her heart, he wouldn't would he? Shaking her head in an effort to dispel that ridiculous nightmare, he loved her; he would never betray her like that. Would he?

Unable to lie still any longer Flora swung her legs out of bed and after roughly pulling on a warm shawl and her slippers she tip toed down the staff corridor heading towards the female quarters trying to be as inconspicuous as it was possible for a eight and a half month pregnant woman to be. It didn't take long before she reached the door she was looking for; pausing for a moment she considered the implications of what she was doing…Did she really want the answer to this question?

Screwing up her courage she crossed the corridor pressing her ear against the wooden panel and listened for any sign of life within. Hearing nothing she allowed herself a small whimper of relief but then just as she was pulling away a soft yet distinctive sound caused her blood to turn cold, now unable to pull away she heard the tell tale signs of a woman enjoying herself. Shaking with fury she placed her hand on the handle at first intent on barging in and giving them both a bawling out, but at the last minute all her courage escaped her and shaking slightly she dropped her hand unable to keep the tears from trickling down her cheeks as another much deeper voice joined his partner only to be immediately shushed by Molly who added in a brazen manner. "Quieter my darling we can't be heard…If someone found out, your wife would kill us!" Before trailing off into tell tale giggles and other sultry moans as her partner endeavoured to change her mind.

"Too late!" Flora muttered stepping away and hurrying off down the corridor, unsure about what to do or how to act, unable to resist blaming herself for the entire affair. She was the one who had hired Molly in the first place after all, she was also the one who had denied her husband certain conjugal entitlements since he had returned, and last night she had seen the results of his frustration first hand its was clear in his eyes not to mention other tell tale parts of his anatomy, he had been a complete gentleman about it, reassuring her that from now on he was quite content to wait when it was now obvious that he was not.

She could hear Walter's whole argument playing in her head now, he would remind her that he had certain needs and that after being faithful to her for the entire trip away he was expecting some relief on his return but instead she had refused him time and time again and so he had no option but to look for it elsewhere. He would be so convincing, telling her that it was nothing more than a physical relief just like with that slut Lady Francesca, what had he said then?... Oh that he could do things to her that he couldn't to Flora, was that why he was with Molly now, perhaps she had offered the same service that a certain cockney whore from Bristol used to provide?

Stifling the feelings of nausea and now nagging back ache Flora pushed open the sitting room door and slumped down the fireside chair to wait for her missing husband still unsure about how to act, could she simply pretend it had never happened? It wasn't like he could truly feel anything for Molly, it would be just like Gertie, no love just sex, and they were soon to have a child together would it be right to ruin their families entire future happiness because Walter had faults like every man. Couldn't this time she look the other way?

Surprisingly she didn't have to wait long as before the clock struck six the door to their rooms opened and in snuck a very guilty looking Walter Corey a towel hung around his neck and even in that dim light Flora could make out the sheen of sweat that still clung to his brow his shirt clinging somewhat to his body.

"Been getting some exercise?" Flora hissed from her hiding place by the fire causing Walter to jump round clutching his chest in surprise.

"Flora darling what are you doing up and about?" He demanded his voice sounding strained and panicky.

"I had a nightmare and couldn't get back to sleep…Where have you been?" She replied softly, her eyes narrowing suspiciously as she scrutinised his flushed appearance, unable to keep the cool tone from her voice.

"Oh well nowhere I couldn't sleep and thought I'd go for a walk, it's this heat…" He hedged moving across the room and pulling open the sitting room curtain so he could get a better look at her. "Are you sure you're alright, it's not like you to wake up and you look very pale…"

"Unlike you! You look positively flushed, like you've been doing something more strenuous!"

"Flora what are you trying to say?" Jarvis replied moping his brow with the end of his towel.

"Me? Nothing! Anyone else up and about, I don't suppose you saw Molly Watson on your travels?" Flora baited her eyes flashing dangerously. "Perhaps she couldn't sleep either and so joined you on 'your walk'." She added scoffing at the ludicrousy of his excuse.

"No she must be still in bed." Walter replied not a hint of guilt in his eyes, which puzzled Flora immensely.

"Oh but you know that!" Flora retorted.

"Not without going and checking, no!"

"Well why don't you?" Flora bated. "I'm sure she would welcome you with open…

"Cause I have no interest in doing so!" Jarvis snapped irritably throwing his towel down sharply onto the other chair "….Mrs Watson is a sensible if somewhat irritating woman who I am sure is fast asleep as we speak and I have absolutely no interest of going to her room, or going for a walk or even sharing a cup of tea with that good lady…However talking of beds shouldn't you be getting back to yours Mrs Corey…" He added suddenly playful, pulling her out of her chair and leading the dumbstruck Flora into their bedroom. "How about I tuck you in?" He muttered running his hands down her back as he nibbled on her earlobe.

"No…I…" Flora began as even more doubts surfaced; she knew what she had heard at Molly's door but if he had only just sated his appetite why was he looking at her in such a hungry predatory way but whatever she was going to say was quickly cut off by the ravenous kiss her husband bestowed on her as he guided them both over to the bed.

"I'll behave I promise…Just kissing and…" Walter muttered kissing along her jaw. "Well it doesn't mean we can't have some fun…" He trailed off, pulling his sweat stained shirt off over his head before gently seizing her wrists and pulling her close.

"I'm sorry Walter but I just can't!" Flora blurted out, tears springing to her eyes as she suddenly pulling out of his loving embrace, how could she lye there knowing those lips that captured hers so passionately had only minutes before been locked so desperately with another. She had thought she could live with the knowledge of his infidelity and put it down to the extenuating circumstances but as she stormed out of the bedroom leaving an even more frustrated and confused Walter Corey behind her she realised that no matter what his reasons there was no way she could ever enjoy her husbands touch without the picture of him and Molly springing to mind.

The next morning was the usual chaos downstairs every time visitors came and went; luggage and provisions for the long, cold journey up to Scotland were heaved onto carriages and certain members of the household prepared themselves for the farewells which would almost break their hearts. Most of the servants had enough wit to realise they should give Mr Adams a wide berth, but those who were foolish enough to cross his path would find their heads well and truly bitten off.

Nobody was immune to his foul mood, not even the butler himself, but in hindsight even he had to admit to himself that asking Mr Adams outright if he had indeed finished with Lady Rebecca for good and renounced his son just as they were to leave for months was maybe a little insensitive. It was, of course, an issue Jarvis would return to, but when Adams was back to his old self and had got over the 'mad little phase' he was going through. Eventually, Lady Rebecca would be a distant memory and Jarvis would have back an under-butler worth his salt who was committed to his work.

Many felt Taplows had seen enough death recently, and one more coffin being loaded by the pallbearers into a carriage was becoming rather too morbidly familiar for everyone's liking. Lady Rebecca had donned her mourning dress again but had refused to let her baby be dressed in black so as she cradled him the stark whiteness of his shawl was striking against the dark lace of her bodice. Andrew had returned to his room early, leaving her and baby Hugo to sleep a little longer before the child woke for his feed, but now the moment they had been dreading was upon them and they faced each other, alone, in the library next to the bookshelf where they had been reunited after their long separation over the summer.

"Here." Rebecca whispered to Adams, pulling out a small envelope from the pocket her skirts as Hugo slept silently across her chest. "It's just a small note. Please don't read it until we've gone."

Adams sighed and accepted the letter. He brushed his hand across her cheek and she kissed his fingers. "Somehow, this day is far harder then when I went to India. I feel so helpless, you leaving me here. How am I to know you won't meet someone who can fulfil your needs better than I?"

"Someone rich you mean, with land, a title?" Rebecca said softly, but her tone was sarcastic. Adams nodded. "I've told you, my sweet man, I don't need any of those things – even without money from my father and from Hugo's estate I still wouldn't need it. It's you I want, you are everything to me, and I'm not lying when I say one day we will be together. I refuse to let some other man bring up your child."

"You say that now, but every eligible man will be beating down your door to get to you, soon you will no longer be in mourning for Hugo and Sir Rufus will be chasing you around again, desperate for your hand, and more besides." Adams bit his lip, furious at his own shortcomings and insecurities. It had surprised him just how long she had loved him and hadn't tired of her bit of 'servant rough', they may have broken the taboo of the class divide but that didn't mean they had even begun to break down the prejudices of society. Sooner or later, with him out the way miles away at Taplows with only the occasional letter until she could return, she would fall for another more worthy suitor, remarry and he wouldn't have so much as a lock of hair to remember his son by.

"Don't talk like that. I will return, I promise, my love. Sooner than you may think, if Monty returns in a while." Rebecca's eyes were wide and pleading as she handed over Hugo for a brief cuddle. It was time to leave and she didn't wish Andrew to get into trouble with Jarvis for going missing just as the carriages were being brought round. Adams hoped to God Will bloody Forest wouldn't barge in at any moment to see the tears pooling in his gruff superior's eyes as he kissed Hugo's cheek for the last time.

"You watch over your mummy, d'you here, my son?" Adams muttered, his voice breaking. As if he knew his father was talking to him Hugo opened his blue eyes and stared, unblinking, up at the face close to his. "I love you both very much."

"Will you miss me too, father?"

Adams glanced up, his eyes pooled with such a well of tears the figure by the door was for a moment blurred, but he recognised the voice and his heart leapt. This was his family, together for the last time for only God knew how long, and as Lizzie approached him he reached out with his free arm and drew her into a hug, kissing her forehead. "I'll miss all of you, but at least I can rest easy in the knowledge you will all be together."

-------

"What will you do? About Francesca?" Molly had to ask him. Even though he was dressed in his greatcoat and top hat for the long journey ahead she had managed to take him aside briefly as Lady Rebecca watched forlornly as her father's carriage was pulled to the front of her own.

Monty cast a suspicious glance at Frank who was propping up his master. He might have thought Lord Julian would have made the effort to not be pissed out his skull to say a final farewell to Cecil, but that was probably asking too much.

"You are right, I cannot leave her even after Keneally's baby is born, not yet, not now I've been selected for a seat; she will do her duty to me as my wife, support me until I'm in Parliament then we can quietly separate. I'll make sure she stays silent and she doesn't take another lover again, whether it be the stable hand or the Prime Minister."

If Molly was fearful of the answer to her next question then she did well to hide it, but deep down she knew the answer. "Tell me, I know I shouldn't ask, but….you won't take to her bed, will you?"

"Certainly not. I may have four children which are not my own, and I vowed long ago to look after them as if they were, it's not their fault their mother's a whore, but that doesn't mean I wish to have a legitimate heir with her. I don't wish to run that risk, so she – and I, till I come back down to Bristol – will remain celibate." Monty's voice was firm, as if he had already rehearsed the answer but at least that told Molly he had given it careful thought and was mindful of her feelings. "If I can't make Keneally suffer then she will share the blame for both of them, it will certainly be the last time she chases round anything in a wig and stockings."

Reassured, Molly squeezed his elbow hurriedly. She so wished to throw her arms around his neck and kiss him, he looked so incredibly dashing. How she would content herself to just the images of him in her head she just didn't know, the next time she would see him he would be an MP, now he had secured the Earl's vote. He was to return in a couple of months but to travel to Bristol first for the election, then he would pay Molly a visit. He hadn't been able to promise her he would bring Lady Rebecca, especially if his ghastly wife was in tow so she could parade her son in front of Frank's nose in a vain effort to make him jealous.

The Earl was shivering in the doorway, his complexion pale and drawn. The occasion was grim and Jarvis remained stony-faced as he watched his under-butler closely, every now and again casting his eye towards Mrs Watson who had begun to fuss around Lady Rebecca – and, even more curiously, Lord Hamilton-Hussey. The last thing he needed was another member of his staff becoming obsessed with a member of the aristocracy, one was surely enough.

To the butler's surprise, his wife appeared from the side of the house, wrapped in so many layers of shawls she looked even bigger. It was a warm day so the sight of her shivering alarmed Jarvis a little; she was hobbling slightly and looked even paler than the supposedly 'sick' Earl who was sneezing and snivelling and complaining of the draught. It was the first time the old walrus had been out of bed for two days, and it showed. A small smile tugged at the corner of Jarvis' mouth as he relished the thought of ordering Forest to bathe His Lordship after days in bed, it could surely be the worst thing the young man would see in his lifetime even taking into consideration the wrong end of Mr Adams' fist flying towards his face.

"Take care, Flora my dear." Rebecca whispered to her friend as she gazed at her with desperate concern. She took Flora's hand gently in her own and the housekeeper could tell the Lady had been crying, but she doubted the tears were just for her father.

"I will, and don't you worry about Mr Adams, Walter and I will keep a good eye on him." Flora raised a smile and patted Rebecca's fingers. "Have a safe journey, and by the time I see little Lord Hugo again he will have a playmate."

Rebecca tightened the ribbon of her bonnet then pecked Flora on both cheeks. "Your baby will still be in her crib when I return, you mark my words. I intend to return with Monty, I don't care what my sister may say. And it WILL be a 'she', Flora, I can feel it in my bones. Make sure you give her a beautiful Irish name, and write to me after the birth!"

The housekeeper nodded emphatically, but winced slightly as she rubbed her back. Rebecca shot a glance at Jarvis but he failed to notice; the Earl had begun wheezing and so the butler had ordered Fred to take him back inside to the comfort of his bed. Muttering something about "those damned bedsores" the Earl pushed away the footman and with a brief wave to Monty hurried back inside.

Hugo had begun to cry, as if he knew exactly what was happening and felt very unsettled, but Lizzie hushed him as she stepped into the carriage next to Rebecca, who had insisted they travel in the same carriage. The horses neighed and stamped their hooves, snorting loudly as they chomped at the bit to get going.

"Thank you for everything, Mr Jarvis. It's been a pleasure." Monty smiled, reaching out and taking the butler's hand firmly in his. Jarvis was slightly surprised by this gesture, but he shouldn't have been. Monty had always been courteous and kind to the staff during his stay; a real gentleman in fact and Jarvis always felt his presence was a delight at Taplows. He was genuinely sad to see him go, as was Mrs Watson, it seemed.

Jarvis nodded but his body language remained formal and professional. "I am sure his Lordship the Earl would be delighted to provide you will his hospitality again in the near future, should you require it."

Monty moved off and turned to Adams, tipping his hat. He didn't speak, but the look in his eye told him that he was sure to watch over Rebecca and Hugo until she could return. At least Adams could rest in the knowledge that his dearest had an ally up in Scotland.

Finally, as Rebecca watched forlornly out of her window, the horses moved off and the familiar sound of the great wheels of the carriages crunching on gravel made Adams' gut tighten in sadness. He hadn't been alone at Taplows without knowing Rebecca was only a few rooms away for months and he simply wanted to break down in tears. She was waving at him and Flora, a sorrowful smile etched on her beautiful face, and the housekeeper returned the wave as she rubbed her back. Jarvis had already gone back inside, as had the footmen and the under-housekeeper. The tears had already begun to streak Molly's face and she knew she had better run and clean herself up. Flora and Adams stood alone in silence as the carriages became small specks in the distance, their own thoughts of dread for the future consuming them, until Flora gave a small yelp of pain.

"Are you alright, Mrs Corey?" Adams enquired, jolting himself out of his thoughts. He instinctively put his hand out to steady her as she took a step back, but instead of reassuring him she glared at him furiously.

"Yes, thank you Mr Adams, I am completely fine!" She snapped as Adams blinked in surprise. "It's just a twinge, something as a man you wouldn't understand! Why is it us poor women have to go through these things alone while men can go off gallivanting around the world or indeed to other rooms in the house without a care or a thought!"

The under-butler was dumbfounded. He didn't need a telling-off by Mrs Corey just as the love of his life and his son finally disappeared out of sight. "I, err…."

With a huff, Flora turned on her heel and waddled off, biting her lip as the pain became slightly more intense and lower down her stomach. Adams watched her inquisitively, but then he remembered the letter Rebecca had given him. Jarvis would have his guts for garters if he didn't hurry up, so with a glance around he saw nobody then slid his thumb under the seal of the envelope. It was scented with her perfume and he sniffed it; it would, he decided there and then, remain under his pillow until all the scent had gone. He began to read:

My darling Andrew,

By the time you read this Hugo and I will be on our way, but do not be sad. My love for you has grown stronger by the day since I have had the delight of discovering Taplows, and you have opened my eyes to the world and proved what shallow a life I had been leading. You and Flora are my very best friends and you were both there for me when Hugo died. Although I have gone it will not be for long, but in the meantime I rest easy knowing you will be able to watch over little Archie and my dearest Hugo, both of whom I miss very much.

I will write as soon as I arrive home to inform you we returned safely. You mean more to me than anyone I have ever known, my sweet Andrew, you are the stars which light up my night, the sun which brightens my day, and I can only hope you will wait for me. Do not concern yourself with the likes of Lord Gannon, my feelings towards you will never change, and Hugo will look forward to seeing his father again very soon.

All the love in the world,

Rebecca

- - --- -

"I to have to say this although I doubt it will come as any great surprise to you Mrs Rya…Jarvis…Cor.. Oh whatever your blasted name is these days," The Earl huffed the strain of trying to remember those inconsiderate changes to his subordinate's names taxing him greatly, "But I am going to have to ask for your resignation!"

"What?" Flora gasped out loud in shock, unable to believe the words he had just uttered

"Your resignation woman or have you been growing deaf as well as incompetent?" Algernon snorted at his own joke whilst he beheld the stunned woman in front of him looking at her closely for perhaps only the second time during her entire employment; his eyes noting for the first time the beneficial effect that married had had on her other than well the obvious and he toyed with the idea that perhaps he had picked the wrong servant to dally with as at least this one was not only attractive but evidently fertile as well before quickly dismissing that idea as absurd.

"Your resignation on my desk before lunch unless of course you'd prefer to be sacked?" He added maliciously watching her physically flinch at those words.

"No of course not!" Flora retorted automatically as a numbness set in. "But why?" She asked her beautiful eyes starting to tear up as she looked the earl directly in the eye for a moment before he glanced away uncomfortably.

"I would have thought that would have been obvious!" He snorted waving dismissively at her large belly. "I cannot go around ignoring the fact that my married housekeeper is expecting a child and it is no longer decent for you to be seen in mixed company. When Jarvis asked my permission he never mentioned anything about a family and although as a man of the world I do realise that these things tend to take care of themselves where married couples are concerned, hell even unmarried as well, but it was never part of the agreement; you will hardly have time to tend to your husband with a newborn around so inevitably Taplows would suffer."

"But…." Flora began chocking slightly in surprise as his lordship didn't even note her objection and carried on regardless, like a steam engine at full throttle.

"And as you know next week we will have several important dignitaries arriving and I will not be embarrassed in such a manner in my own house, allowing a heavily pregnant woman to continue working its obscene, and my friends would assume it's because I still can't afford a proper one and I will not be the subject or ridicule and gossip in my own estate!" He added finally slamming his fist down firmly onto his antique writing desk, wincing slightly at the sudden shoot of pain in his clenched fist before shaking his throbbing hand gingerly and once more glancing up at the now trembling woman before him for a moment a flash of concern flickering over his features as he thought she might very well collapse on the expensive blue silk rug he brought back from Indian so he added this time in a more gentle tone.

"You have been a good housekeeper in your time Mrs Ryan, and that will be noted in your excellent reference but being the practical woman you normally are in your well…normal state…" The Earl spluttered nervously whilst trying to think of the correct way to phrase it. "Yes well you know what I mean, in your current condition your services are no longer required, I've already sounded out your deputy Mrs Watkins or Wat…ever her name is, and she seemed eager to take on the role and as I understand it she is practically running the household already so there is no reason why you can't step down immediately, she assures me she has everything under control!"

"I see." Flora retorted sharply her tears quickly vanishing as her cheeks flushed with anger. "She said that did she?"

"Yes I am glad we are in agreement, now if you could send Forest in on your way out I could do with a snifter of brandy to get my appetite up, what's Chef serving by the way?"

"Quail." Flora replied automatically as she headed to the door not even remembering to curtsey politely before she left but the Earl didn't seem to notice.

"Mr Forest the Earl wants you!" Flora snapped as she stormed out of the study catching the footman unawares whilst he ear wigged by the door. "But then again you already know that!" She hissed, wincing slightly in pain as that back ache from the night before returned unexpectedly.

"Yes Mrs Corey…Flora I'm so sorry are you alright?" Will whispered his young face showing genuine concern.

"I'll be fine nothing a few sharp words, a good cry and sit down won't solve but thank you for asking!" She added patting the footman's hand softly. "At least someone seems to be taking my feelings into consideration, shame it wasn't one of my close friends or employer!" She hissed spitefully, her expression only softening when she caught sight of Will's now worried expression. "I'll be fine I promise, but I think you better get in there before his lordship decides to send you packing as well!" So with a brief smile of encouragement Will disappeared into the study leaving a silently fuming Flora Corey to stand and plot her next action.

- - - - - -

A few minutes later a now completely fuming Flora Ryan stormed down through the servants quarters, well as fast as a heavily pregnant woman with back pain could stride but the furious expression more than negated any comedy value from her determined waddling. It was all making sense now, all those stopped conversations when she had entered the room and to think at the time she hadn't even been suspicious preferring to think they planning a nice surprise for her rather than stabbing her in the back. It didn't come as such a such a surprise from Walter, as despite the Earl not mentioning her husbands involvement this little stunt positively reeked of him, after all he had down such a thing before and she really should have seen it coming, all those subtle little hints about taking some time off, encouraging her to stay in bed longer and let Molly accompany him to the morning meetings or deal with the irksome Lady Caroline. Those double crossing bastards had been slowly digging out the ground from under her and she being so stupid and trusting hadn't even realised until it was too late!

Well they weren't going to get away with this!

Flinging the door to her office wide she surveyed the cold luncheon all laid out for the senior staff who any moment would start to arrive but all she could think about where the Earls cruel words, incompetent was she?

"Well if I'm so incompetent how come there is enough food on the table…." She huffed grabbing the nearest dish, a plate of devilled eggs and flinging it at the wall.

"Mrs Ryan…" Mr Simpkins gasped out from the doorway as he saw his creation go flying. "Stop please."

But the housekeeper was oblivious to his presence her attention turning to the stunning pork pie that was the table centrepiece. "Slipping standards…Well I'll show him slipping!" And she grabbed hold of the pie whirling round to face the panicking cook who suddenly had to jump out the way, the trifle he was carrying sloshing dangerously as the housekeeper used the pie like a cheese and hurled into the corridor watching with satisfaction as it smashed dramatically against the far wall pieces of pastry flying up into the air, scattering far and wide and alerting the approaching staff to the crisis.

"Flora what on earth are you doing…." Molly began as she arrived panting to survey the devastation. "Are you quite mad?"

"No but you must be MY FRIEND," She retorted with a sneer whilst flinging subsequent bread rolls in her former deputy's direction, "Did you really think I wouldn't find out!"

"I don't know what you are talking about!" Molly retorted but Flora could tell from her slightly nervous tone and the way she couldn't look her in the eye that she was right all along.

"I think you do, I think you not only know but that you plotted and schemed with your accomplice well you'll be happy to know you've both got what you wanted, me sacked that it is!" Flora hissed. "I just hope it was worth it Molly my dear…" She trailed off as they both heard the booming voice of the butler as he strode towards the dining room demanding to know what the hell was going on.

Whirling round Molly stuck her head round the door and called out down the corridor to the approaching butler. "Mr Jarvis please come and reason with your wife she isn't herself."

"Oh that's it run to him instead of doing the honest thing and telling me the truth…Tell me Molly my dear has there been anything else you've been turning to my husband for other than career advancement?" Flora asked her voice dangerously low as she leaned against the table to ease her now chronic back pain. "Because if you both haven't been arranging my removal then WHAT THE HELL HAVE YOU BOTH BEEN DOING TOGETHER?"

"Flora…" Jarvis suddenly cut in his eyes widening as he took in the state of not only the room but his practically hysterical wife, and quickly realising he might have made a significant lapse in judgement, he had expected her to be a little upset but not to react like this.

"Don't you Flora me Mr Jarvis." Flora hissed spitefully glaring at her husband with the full force of her hatred, so much so that he couldn't even detect the faintest residue of affection in her eyes as she advanced towards them "Don't you dare scheme and plot and do god knows what else with this viper behind my back and then stand there and call me Flora!"

"I haven't done anything!" Jarvis exclaimed.

"LIAR!" Flora screeched suddenly seizing the poor innocent trifle out of Mr Simpkins grasp and chucking it all over her stunned husband. "You dirty cheating backstabbing liar." She added watching with demented glee as the whipped cream and custard hit him plum in the face whilst the fruit and sponge fingers hit his chest and slid down soaking his neatly pressed suit.

For a moment no body moved watching as the frozen butler slowly wiped the mess from his handsome face. "I think it best we continue this conversation in private!" He exclaimed indicating for Simpkins to get the hell out of there and close the door behind him so cutting off the domestic from the now assorted gaggle of servants who had crowded round.

"No!" Flora snapped. "I want everyone to know what a pair of vipers you are, I know you were involved, the Earl was his usual less than discreet self about it!" She lied, true he had betrayed Molly but he hadn't mentioned Walter but then they didn't know that.

"So what if he did." Jarvis snapped. "He only asked my opinion on the matter, as the Butler and not the husband of the current housekeeper, and as such I was bound by my honour to tell him what I thought!"

"Oh and what was that, that I was incompetent? That standards are slipping when we all know that is not the case, and in fact if it wasn't for my personal intervention there would have been significant problems or has that debacle at the last party somehow escaped your selective memories? Apparently so and the Earl is such a pompous fool that he refuses to allow us to hire more staff, saying we found some way to cope before and he sees no reason to change that now. But somehow I don't think that is what you chose to tell his lordship, no you preferred to use me as a scapegoat, my child as an excuse to sack me and muscle in your new close friend as my replacement." Flora added sneering at the word friend, emphasising to all around she hardly suspected that to be the state of their relationship.

"Nothing is going on Flora I swear it, yes I admit to talking to his lordship about taking over as housekeeper and yes I did tell him when he asked that I thought you were finding it difficult to cope, and I'm not going to apologise for that!" Molly snapped. "You can't cope on your own at the moment so what are you going to be like when the little one arrives, but I forgot Flora Corey is so damn stubborn and perfect she actually thinks she can do both when most women would just be damned grateful to have one or the other!"

"How dare you!" Flora snapped. "I took you in and taught you practically everything you know, over the last few months I trusted and confided in you not as a deputy but as my friend and this is how you repay me? It's not my fault if you're jealous of what I have Molly that's your problem, I worked damn hard for every bit of it and I deserved it, but instead of going out and making a career of your own and family of your own you decide to try and take mine well I am not going to let you get away with it, I swear I am not!" She added her voice getting higher and more emotional as she fought back tears. "You were never my friend and you never will be…"

"Flora it wasn't her fault!" Jarvis whispered taking steps towards his stunned wife.

"I should have known you'd step in to protect her, but then I suppose she must have been providing you such welcome relief after all those months without anything and then coming home to a frigid wife, well I suppose you owe her that much! And to think every time I was suspicious I put those feelings aside, blaming myself, telling myself it was my fault that I was the one who going slowly insane, that you would never ever do that to me. Even when you keep disappearing and not telling me where you have been I have put my accusations aside and trusted you, when in reality I have been right all alone!"

"Flora there is nothing of that nature going on I swear it!"

"Really then why the secret meetings, the hushed conversations, and then there was those flower's Molly's suddenly been getting in the last week or two since you arrived home, flowers which are so similar to those you used to buy me, and its not like she is friendly with anybody other than you and Mr Adams and he's her brother for goodness sake and if it there was some secret admirer why wouldn't she tell me unless of course her paramour just happened to be my husband!"

"I haven't sent any flowers!" Jarvis snapped, closing the distance and grasping her elbow. "You are being ridiculous, I could never have eyes for any other woman, you're my wife and I love you even if you do exasperate me at times."

"Oh really then what about the early morning disappearing acts that you refuse to explain, going for a walk? You must think I am a gullible idiot to swallow that Walter! I know what I heard, the sainted Molly Watson having it away with a certain married man!" Flora added whirling round to face the now pale and trembling Molly. "What no words of denial?"

"I don't know what you are talking about Flora, the stress has made you delusional!" The deputy housekeeper spat back but Flora could tell her words were for show and did little to convince her of her deputy's innocence.

"But Molly is right you are delusional, delusional and stubborn, I asked you to ease up, hell I even begged you to think about retiring but did you even listen… I am fed up with you putting your job and Taplows before your marriage and our child and so I took steps to prevent you from harming them both."

"What by destroying them yourself!"

"No, the doctor told me you had to rest or risk our child and I made a choice Flora it may not be one you like or agree with but that is tough!"

"How dare you I am an adult capable of my own decisions…"

"Well you're certainly not acting like an adult, so I'll treat you like a child if you prefer…" He trailed off frogmarching her towards the door.

"Let go of Me Walter I am not a child and I refused to have you order me around like a member of your staff which I hasten to remind you I am no longer so what the hell do you think you're doing!" Flora demanded as he led her up the stairs to their room, but Walter didn't answer instead he opened the door and dragged her inside before suddenly turning round and striding back out into the corridor locking the door behind him.

"What the…" Flora screeched leaping forward and banging her fist on the wooden door whilst fumbling on her chain for her skeleton key.

"If you're going to act like a child then I will treat you like a child, you are to remain in your room until you calm down, I will have some lunch sent up to you once we have managed to salvage what's left!" He added vindictively.

"How dare you, you can't keep me in here for long!" Flora snapped trying in vain to unlock the door from the inside but failing as the cunning Butler had left the key in the door the other side and so she couldn't get hers in. "Dammit Walter open this door immediately!" She screeched but there was no reply other than the dry echo of her own words down the corridor.

-- - -

I'll show him! That cocky arrogant bastard who the hell does he think he is ordering me and around and making decisions about my life without even consulting me? I am not a child or his chattel not matter what that certificate might say, dammit I'll make him sorry for betraying me, even if he hasn't strayed in the literal sense, and I still am not certain about that, well one moment I am and the other I'm not. What I've seen and heard points one way but something in his eyes tells me he hasn't, God what mess this has become…

"Somebody let me out!" Flora strode over and pounding her fists once more on the hard wood screamed at the door. "Walter Corey if you don't let me out of here this second when I see you next I'll wring that scrawny neck of yours…" But still there was no answer.

Trembling with a dangerous fury, shock and emotional turmoil Flora leant her head against the cold wood straining her hearing for any sign of life outside her room. Finally she managed to overhear a snatch of conversation, it was Walter and…Emily, thank goodness there was no way she would condone her son's behaviour. Straining her hearing Flora was able to make out Emily's words as she ranted at her son.

"Don't be stupid Walter it's barbaric keeping her locked up like an animal, just listen to her she's even more furious than before."

"She acted like an animal so she gets treated like one, you've seen what she did to the dining room, if she isn't kept locked up until she calms down then what happened to the pie could happen to both mine and Molly's heads."

"Well what did you expect she was going to be pleased about your little scheme, I would have thought you knew her better than that Walter, and getting involved with Molly how dense can you be?"

"It wasn't like that, look I'll try and explain over a cup of tea, by then she might have calmed down enough and you can come up and talk to her whilst I make my trip into town…."

That was all she could make out as the now fading clomp of footsteps drowned out the muttered words.

"Emily DON'T LEAVE ME!" She screamed at the top of her lungs pounding on the door once more as her last hope for escape evaporated. Sobbing now she slumped to the floor, 'involved with molly', did everyone seem to know something was going other than her, why didn't she see it earlier, all that fighting should have been an obvious sign of attraction why else would Molly have tried so hard to persuade her not to marry him…

"Well if he thinks I am going to sit here and let him carry on right under my nose whilst I play the meek stay at home wife raising his brood whilst he cavorts with his mistress under my very nose then he has another thing coming."

Once more her temper rising Flora stormed into the bedroom, flinging open the wardrobe and dragging all her clothing out of it before doing the same with her dressing table drawers, she wasn't going to stay here and be humiliated she was a respectable married woman she could go wherever she wanted now. She'd go home and visit her mother, Walter wouldn't dare follow her over to Ireland as for some reason he had an irrational fear of the place and now her brother was all grown up the farm would be doing well and she could run the house whilst looking after both her ailing mother and the baby. If she left today it would only be a day or so before she could be on a boat and then less than week she could be home.

"See I don't need Taplows or Walter!" She exclaimed out loud more to try and reassure herself than anything else. Now her mind was made up she leant down as far as she could ignoring the now almost constant ache in the small of her back and grasping the handle of the nearest trunk she pulled with all her strength dragging it out. Straightening up she winced at the sudden stabbing pain in her side, but she was so preoccupied with dumping all her worldly possessions into the trunk that she dismissed it as a strain from standing up so quickly. However the one that followed barely five minutes later was so intense she couldn't ignore that one as gasping in shock she collapsed onto the bed.

"Not now baby…Oh God no…" Flora wheezed, clamping her teeth down on her bottom lip so hard it drew blood but that was the least of her worries at this time; waiting for the contraction to subside before levering herself to her feet and hobbling towards the door stopping in shock halfway there as her water's broke. Now shaking in panic as the realisation she might have to do this all alone set in, Flora was spurred into action, tugging at the fastenings of her dress so she could at least breath properly she made it to the window. Leaning against the cold stone wall for support she managed to open one of the casement windows and taking as deep a breath as she could manage screamed out for help.

- - - -

Meanwhile downstairs a now placated Emily watched as her son got into the carriage, settling himself down before leaning out of the window. "I won't be gone long but the Earl insists that I attend to this personally, bloody fool," he added under his breath before catching his mother's knowing glance.

"And Flora?" She asked pointedly.

"Go and talk to her for me, take her some lunch up and try and get her to listen to you…"

"Isn't that something her husband should be doing?" Emily cut in.

"I would if I wasn't afraid she would bludgeon me to death with a poker before I had even gotten out my first sentence!" Jarvis retorted. "She'll listen to you then I'll come and talk to her when I get back…"

"Just make sure you do my son." Emily added suddenly whirling round as she thought she heard a yell from on high. "Did you hear that?" She asked Walter who simply shrugged.

"No."

"It sounded like…Oh never mind."

"Probably Flora threatening to castrate me before murdering me!" He joked feebly before waving the coachman to move off.

"I wouldn't joke about such things if I were you Walter." Emily called out smothering her laughter as she watched her son's face fall from a distance before heading back into the house; as usual it was up to her to sort out her son's mess, but perhaps a nice cup of hot chocolate might be enough of a peace offering to get Flora to at least listen to what she had to say.

- - -

Upstairs Flora had all but given up, no one had heard her, and no one was going to come to her aid. Whimpering slightly through the pain she slid down the wall unable to stop the tears that now fell down her face. What if something went wrong like with Rebecca and there was no Doctor here to save her or the child, what a tableau that would be for Walter when he finally deigned to let her out; coming to bed to find he'd killed them both. He'd be sorry then, Flora thought, concentrating on her anger in an effort to block out the pain but being unable to do anything but let it wash over her and bearing it as best she could.

It wouldn't be much longer now the contractions were coming much closer together and from the way they started in her back and spread out she realised she had been in labour hours without even realising it, and she had thought it was only back ache. Panting now from the exertion Flora made one final attempt to summon help, even if they could only be in time to help the baby it would be something, so taking a deep breath she began crawling across the room towards the door.

- - - -

In her entire life Grace had never felt so alone…she'd just lost the only person in the whole of Taplows that she felt she could talk too. She'd said her goodbyes to Lizzie earlier than the rest of the servants that morning and had not joined them in the courtyard to see Lizzie and the rest of the Earl's guests on their journey back to Scotland. She couldn't face all the questions, the knowing looks she was receiving from the staff as they all took in the purpley blue bruises covering her pale face.

She'd been keeping herself to herself as much as possible and this particular morning due to Mrs Corey's absence she had abandoned her duties in the still room and was currently pretending to sweep the top staircase, using her solitude as an excuse to do some daydreaming. She was under his power, she had no escape from Frank clutches. At this moment she needed rescuing, for the second time she needed rescuing from Frank Keneally. Things had been different the first time…this time however George couldn't feel further away.

There was nothing she could do except wait for a miracle. They'd all warned her about Frank constantly, even William Forest insisted she stay away from him. Of course she of all people knew what Frank was capable of and she'd heard the rumours about Frank's advances towards Lady Rebecca and Mrs Corey. But once again he'd managed to pull the wool over her eyes. After George's arrest he come across as so sweet and sincere towards her and when they were in India he was always there for her without forcing the issue. It had been almost perfect for a while between them, just as she had once planned, the two of them travelling together.

She had been in love with Frank once upon a time, or she thought she had been. But comparing it to how she felt for George it was nothing…she doubted George would ever return to Taplows. Surely he wasn't stupid enough to try something like that. The chances were he'd be caught any day now especially with half the country looking for him. The thought made her whole body shiver. When they caught him they'd…well he'd…face the noose. She couldn't bare to think about it.

Over the last year Grace's whole clang of friends had gradually gone their separate ways; Susan had been sacked, Charlotte was now married to a fine man, George had been arrested, the two of them not parting on the best of terms really and now Lizzie had gone away for goodness knows how long. She knew if she really needed to talk to someone Mrs Corey or Mrs Watson would be happy to lend an ear but somehow it just wasn't the same as having a close friend to talk too.

Suddenly the prospect of a life attached to Frank Keneally with no hope of escape overwhelmed her and she allowed the brush she'd been slowly brushing along the same stair for the last ten minutes to drop from her hands. Now unable to control the tears they began to spill down her cheeks and she sank to the floor, not caring anymore who stumbled across her slacking from her work.

Humming to herself Emily Corey finally left the kitchen carrying a tray laden down with all manner dishes that a concerned Felix had insisted on preparing himself all whilst muttering away about, 'men' being 'untrustworthy blaggards' and 'not worth the effort' whilst Emily leant against the welsh dresser tapping her feet and looking at her pocket watch. Making her way up the stairs she started running through in her mind all the different opening gambits she could try. She was so deep in thought that she only noticed Grace sprawled on the stairs when she almost tripped over her, spilling the tea all over the tray.

"Goodness me Miss May, what on earth are you doing down there?" She snaps sternly, taking in the brush thrown down on the stairs. "I nearly ended up flat on my face! If someone walked past and saw you lurking down there well you'd be up before Mrs Corey and Mr Jarvis straight away…Grace?" She asks her expression softening as she heard the spluttering as Grace sobbed into her hands.

Immediately concerned Emily settled the tray down on the stair, before awkwardly lowering herself next to Grace. "My dear shush shush," she whispered soothingly, as she took Grace into her arms stroking her hair gently. "I know it must be difficult with Lizzie gone as well now, but it's going to be alright…she'll be back before you know it."

Grace didn't answer, she didn't have the energy to explain her troubles to this woman. Instead she allowed Emily to hold her tightly, wishing she could stay in her arms forever. Never wanting her to let go in fear of having to face the real world once more. "Promise me if you are ever feeling lonely you'll come and speak to me, is that clear?" She asks softly, pulling away from her gradually and raising her chin gently to stare into her eyes making sure she understood. It was then she saw the bruising covering her face.

"How on earth did this…" she began, trailing off a different question replaced her former, who? It didn't take a moment for Emily to realise who it was. She'd seen the two of them together a lot recently, skulking about the house. It had seemed quite innocent at the start, a share look or a supportive pat on the back from Frank whenever George was mentioned. "Frank?..." Emily whispered to Grace, waiting for a nod from her. She received no gesture from her but the pleading look in her eyes told her everything she needed as confirmation.

"Grace dear you can't allow this to carry on," Emily whispers, tracing a gentle hand over the bruising masking her usually perfect face. "Tell Mr Jarvis," she suggested, wiping the tears from her face.

Grace couldn't help snorting at Emily's ridiculous suggestion, "He has no power over Frank anymore, what can he do?"

"This is not something that you can keep to yourself Grace. It'll happen again and it'll get worse-" She insists, only to be cut off.

"It never meant to happen, it was a complete accident. He promised me it'll never happen again." She was struggling to convince herself this, never mind Emily.

"That is what they always say dear, but I assure you dear there are not many men who hold to their word about something like this." Grace knew Emily was right but she couldn't bare to admit it.

"I wish George was here," She sobs into Emily's encircling arms once again.

"I know it's difficult sweetie but surely he wouldn't like the idea of you sitting back and allowing this to happen. Would he?" Curse this woman for always being right about everything, Grace couldn't help thinking. "Promise me this is where it ends, if he so much as touches you again you come straight to me or Mrs Corey. Yes?" Grace nodded, screwing up her eyes. Would she have the guts to go to someone if it did happen again?

After placing a gentle kiss on Grace's forehead, Emily rose picking up the sweeping brush Grace had dropped to the floor. "Now you take this downstairs straight away and get back to that still room, while I go have a little chat with a certain daughter-in-law of mine. Wish me luck." Grace manages a weak smile as she rises from the step, pulling up the tea tray and exchanging it for the brush.

Continuing up the stairs Emily thought hopelessly about Grace and how disgusted she was at the thought of Frank Keneally being in anyway blood related to her. She wasn't about to Walter about what Frank was up to now, that is the last thing Grace would want. If he so much as laid a finger on her again then she'd make sure he'd regret it. Her thoughts then returned to Flora, how on earth was she going to calm down a hormonally charged 8 and a half month pregnant woman, but before she could make up her mind she heard a sound that made her blood turn cold, Flora was screaming.

- - - -

Somewhere on the edges of the Earl's estate Walter Corey sat back in the carriage, but his mind was not on his surroundings or his jaunt into town but focused back on Taplows or more specifically on one person, his wife. Something was unsettling him, true their argument had been extremely disturbing but somehow he couldn't put his finger on precisely what it was, he just knew deep down in his bones something just wasn't right. Acting impulsively and realising the Earl would upbraid him for his reckless disobedience Jarvis leant out the window and yelled at the coachman to stop and turn around, he needed to get back at once.

- - - -

Meanwhile upstairs just as Flora had finally given up all hope the door to the sitting room was flung open and in dashed a distraught looking Emily.

"Flora oh my god…" She gasped dashing over to the overjoyed housekeeper.

"Emily." Flora cried out reaching out and grasping at her mother in law as if she were a life jacket flung to a drowning swimmer. "I was so afraid I would have to do this alone I can't do this I just can't…" She sobbed burying her head in the older woman's shoulder as Emily pulled her into a tight embrace.

"Yes you can, I'll go send for the doctor and…"

"There's no time." Flora screamed out tensing as yet another contraction swept over her. "Please don't leave me…" She added seizing the older woman's hand tightly in hers and refusing to let go.

"I will be right back, I give you my word and besides I need help to move you into the bedroom, you're in enough pain as it is without adding uncomfortable to the list."

"Be quick then!" Flora gasped. "This baby isn't going to wait for anyone."

Nodding Emily got to her feet and dashed down the corridor faster than she had moved in years, it wasn't long before she found Grace still lingering in the hallway and dragged her to help with Mrs Corey.

- - - -

It didn't take long for the news to spread around the entire household and other than the immediate family and Felix of course who was practically family at any rate there was none more concerned than Andrew Adams as he stood pacing up and down in the courtyard waiting for any sign of either the doctor or the missing Butler. Why did the Earl decide to send Jarvis off into town now of all times, in some ways he envied the Butler as he was being spared the agony of listening to Flora's screams which he had himself briefly heard whilst Emily had been dragged away from Flora's side long enough to order him about.

Listening to the obvious agony in her cries had brought it all back for him and he just preyed to whatever deity was listening that there would not be a repeat performance of that tragedy; if there were he knew Jarvis would never forgive himself for being away at such a time. However just as he was pondering that thought a carriage came clattering down the driveway and squinting against the oppressive midsummer sun Adams recognised the insignia on the side it was one of there's, perhaps the father to be would make it in time after all?

- - - -

Upstairs Emily had made Flora as comfortable as possible, the curtains had been drawn slightly to prevent the harsh sunlight from getting in her eyes and they had managed to wrestle the former housekeeper out of her cumbersome dress, so she was only dressed a slip in the oppressive midsummer heat.

"Why did your child have to pick the hottest day of the year?" Emily huffed good-naturedly as she fanned the panting Flora.

"Don't blame me its all Walter's fault!" Flora hissed between clenched teeth.

"Well the argument couldn't have helped…" Emily replied soothingly. "But I don't think you can blame all this on him, babies tend to come when they want.."

"No this is all his fault!" Flora screamed. "Putting me under all this stress… Surely the doctor warned him this might happen…Besides its his bloody fault in the first place." She added panting as another contraction hit.

"Oh well…" Emily replied unable to look the now smirking Grace-May in the face. "Nothing we can do about that now Flora dear I'm sure the Doctor will be here soon and Walter will have…"

"He'd better not come anywhere near me!" Flora retorted. "I swear if he does I will not be held responsible, this is all his fault!...I AM NEVER DOING THIS AGAIN!" She screamed out, unable to resist the urge to finally bear down and push. "Remember this Grace all men are evil beings I tell you…." She added as the worst of the contraction passed.

"Yes Mrs Ry…Corey." Grace replied politely as she mopped at the housekeepers brow with a damp flannel, for once finding herself agreeing with their former Housekeeper's assessment.

"Grace would you do something for me." Flora asked breathlessly.

"Of course anything?"

"When this is over and that no good scum of a husband of mine finally decides to put in an appearance I want you to go outside and tell him this is all his fault and that if even mentions more children he can give birth to them himself!"

"Well speaking of the devil…" Emily cut in laughing at Flora's turn of phrase as she moved away from the window, "I'd say he's just arrived…"

- - - -

"Mr Adams." Jarvis called out jumping down from the carriage the moment he saw his subordinate waiting for him, with a look of panic on his face. "What is it what's happening?"

"It seems your little one is anxious to put in an appearance Sir!" Adams retorted, watching as the Butler's eyes grew wild with fear.

"The doctor?" Jarvis gasped as they both darted back into the house scattering curious servants as they went.

"He's been sent for but according to your mother she doubts he'll make it in time." Adams retorted huffing slightly as he tried to keep up with the pace his panicking superior was setting and so only just catching him in time before he prised a startled maid out of the doorway. "You can't go in there sir." Adams exclaimed aghast shooing the worried girl aside and taking her place to block the door from the Butler

"But I have to see her." Jarvis argued his face growing steadily ashen as his wife's screams grew louder and more painful. "What if something happens I can't just stand here and let her go without knowing how much I love her, Dammit Andrew of anyone here I would have thought you would have understood that!"

Starting as if punched in the stomach Adams expression clouded with pain as he fought the impulse to thump the butler right between the eyes, but he suddenly realised now was not the time. "Aye mebbie I do but I am not letting you in sir, you have to let her finish this herself you'd only be in the way!"

"In the way? That is my wife and my child!" Jarvis snapped trying to physically drag the taller man out of his way but Adams stood his ground, refusing to budge an inch even when the Butler threatened him with the sack.

"It'll be alright sir." Adams whispered soothingly as he watched the defeated man slump against the far wall, his face creasing in anguish every time Flora screamed out in agony.

They seemed to last for an eternity, then finally another cry filled the air a much higher and shriller timbre than it's mother's and a shocked and relieved Jarvis suddenly stood up and bounded past a now unresisting Adams, pausing only for a moment to knock on the closed bedroom door. It felt like an eternity before he heard the flurry of skirts on the wooden floors and the door was finally opened by a smiling Emily behind whom he saw the most breathtaking of sights, a tired but radiant Flora holding a tiny screaming little bundle in her arms.

"Flora." Walter whispered as he stepped into the room causing her to look up at him for the first time and he noticed the tears running freely down her face.

"It's a little girl." She called out smiling through her tears as her husband finally closed the distance between them and took both his reasons for being into his arms.

- - - - -

"Well as I far as I can see both Mother and Baby are perfectly healthy Mr Jarvis, and very fortunate considering the unusual circumstances…." Doctor Evans trailed off smiling over at the concerned father who hadn't stopped hovering over his shoulder since the moment he had began his examination of his daughter.

"So everything is really alright she has all her fingers and toes and not too many of each?" Jarvis asked panicking

"Don't worry ten of each, I counted… Twice!" Doctor Evans joked.

"Now are you sure…" Jarvis began leaning over obviously intent on checking the doctor's arithmetic.

"Walter would you give the good Doctor room to breath!" Flora snapped from her position propped up against her pillows.

"I think I have a right to take an interest in my own daughter!" Jarvis snapped unable to keep the joy from his voice or his face as he said those words, repeating the phrase my daughter so softly and reverently that Flora's face melted at the sight and she couldn't find in her heart to stay angry with him.

"I suppose so…" She grudgingly admitted shaking her head as a warm grin spread over her tired but happy face.

"Well I'll leave you both two it, no doubt Mrs Corey will be wanting to get some sleep." Dr Evans muttered handing the squirming child back to her father who couldn't help staring down at her in wonder as she slowly opened her sleepy eyes seeming to regard him coolly for a moment almost as if assessing him and not finding him lacking before trustingly settling back to sleep.

"Are you going to stare at her all night?" Flora teased.

"I just can't believe she's actually here!" Walter exclaimed moving to sit next to his wife and laying their daughter gently in her arms whilst he wrapped one of his around Flora's shoulders. "Well mother tell me what are going to call her?"

"I have been thinking about that….And don't you go calling me that it makes me feel so old!" Flora replied leaning into his comforting embrace as she held her child close and rocked her gently marvelling at all her features so similar to those of her parents but in miniature.

"She looks like you, Mummy or do you prefer Mama..." Walter whispered teasingly before kissing her forehead gently.

"Yes but she has your long fingers and ears." Flora replied ignoring his jibe as if he had never made it.

"But not my nose, eh?" Jarvis joked.

"No fortunately not but I'm not sure whose it is as it's not mine either…" Flora trailed off before realisation struck "Emily's nose I think, don't you?"

"You're right." Walter replied brushing his finger gently down their daughters nose then across her cheek. "But she's definitely got your mouth and colouring…"

"She's doomed then!" Flora sniggered.

"She's lovely and going to be a real heartbreaker just you wait and see I'll have to keep her locked in her room and beat the beau's off with a very long stick!"

"Walter don't start already, you're going to have to let her start walking out with gentlemen eventually…"

"Yes when she's thirty perhaps!" He sniggered.

"But how about we wait until she is big enough to actually walk before we worry about such things?" Flora added sternly, before her expression suddenly softened as she cooed gently at the tiny child sleeping soundly in her arms.

"Yes Mother!" Jarvis retorted unable to resist stroking the soft silky down of black hair that peeped up from under the blanket.

"Don't call me that I'm not your mother, and the staff are confused enough as it is without you calling both Emily and myself mother as well!" Flora retorted shifting around so she could lay the baby on Walter's chest, watching in delight as his face contorted in momentary panic before he realised she wasn't going to slip or fall.

"Talking of names my dearest…." Jarvis trailed off softly. "Isn't there something we should be doing?"

"Well don't get angry but I sort of already have…"

"Go on just as long as I can pronounce it!" Jarvis huffed but he was unable to keep up his pretence of annoyance in the face of his wife's pleading pout.

"Eileánóir" Flora whispered lovingly stroking her daughter's chubby cheek. "Eileánóir Kiera."

"They do suit her but aren't they a bit grand for everyday use?" Walter began hesitantly. "I mean Eileánóir Kiera Corey is something of a mouthful…"

"Are you saying our daughter deserves a boring common little name like Maud or Doris just because they are easier for you to yell out when you're in one of your tempers?" Flora snapped her normally serene face flushing dark with anger.

"No…Never my dearest I like them…No I love them really! Eileánóir Kiera it is!" Jarvis stammered acutely aware of the impact his wife's sour mood was having on the child balanced on his chest who had awoken and was starting to grisle.

"Shush Eileánóir it's alright mama is here! She looks just like you when she pulls that face!" Flora whispered teasingly picking up her daughter and rocking her slowly and after a few minutes she had gone back to sleep. "And for your information Eileánóir was my maternal grandmother's name and she never found it a mouthful and Kiera is just perfect for her as in Irish it means small and dark."

"She seems to like it at any rate." Jarvis whispered softly moving from the bed into the sitting room and bringing in the bassinette that Emily had moved in there out of the way whilst Flora was in labour. "Now Flora dearest don't you think you should put her down and try and get some sleep yourself…You know what the doctor said whenever she is sleeping you should try and sleep."

"I know but I just can't believe that she's here!" Flora replied softly before reluctantly handing her daughter over to her husband watching his every move like a hawk as he gently placed her down in the bassinette before tugging the beautifully worked baby blanket over her.

"Your mother made it." Flora whispered sleepily anticipating his question before he asked. "I have just to add the initials in the centre and it's finished."

"Yes well you can do that tomorrow I'll look over her this evening now please Flora try and rest." Walter added in his best strict husband and father tone which only caused his wife to snigger in amusement and reply in her meekest wifely tone, "Yes Walter whatever you say Walter!", before resting her weary head on her pillow and surprisingly drifting right off to sleep.

- - - - -

So exhausted from her ordeal Taplows newest mother slept far into the wee hours of the morning, waking groggily she immediately turning over in bed to peer into the bassinette and feeling a momentary flash of panic when her daughter wasn't there as expected. Sitting up sharply she ignored the screech of protest from her stomach muscles and swung her legs off over the side of the bed, testing her feet and finding them capable of supporting her she grasped a nearby shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders before heading towards the sitting room. However she had barely taken more then a few steps when the muffled cry of her child could be heard even through the closed door, sighing in relief Flora crossed the room and pulling the door open slightly she peered through the crack. What she saw almost made her cry with happiness and burst from laughter.

Walter was pacing the room a stressed expression on his normally composed face as he tried everything to get his daughter to quieten down. "Come on Ellie please be good and go back to sleep for daddy….Mummy needs her rest and we don't want to have to go ask Grandma for help cause we both know we'll never get rid of her again…No we won't, no we won't….." He added in the most adorable baby voice as he rocked his now screeching daughter.

"She's probably hungry." Flora whispered from the doorway watching in delight as an embarrassed Walter whirled round and she caught sight of his face properly for the first time. "Walter Corey how on earth did you get baby powder on your face?...And all over the table…And the Floor!" She added as she caught sight of the bombsight their sitting room had become.

"Flora I thought you were…Well have you ever tried opening one of those tins all whilst balancing a baby on your other arm….?"

"No." Flora replied giggling as she took the child from his arms checking that he had secured the new nappy correctly before settling down in the fireside chair. "But there is nothing to stop you clearing it up now! Personally I'm amazed you didn't cover Eileánóir in it as well but I suppose it's a good job your mother made you practice on little Hugo." She added unbuttoning her nightgown and positioning the baby just as Emily had shown her before, wincing slightly as her daughter latched on incorrectly before finally getting the idea although even then it wasn't the most comfortable of experiences. Looking up she expected to see her husband scurrying around clearing up the mess he had caused but instead he was frozen to the spot staring at her mesmerised. "What?" She asked jolting him from his trace like state.

"I…nothing." He trailed off uncomfortably not knowing quite where to look. "I'll clear up this mess then be out of your way." He muttered hurrying about his task.

"Walter." Flora called teasingly. "You're not embarrassed are you?"

"No!" He replied defensively still unable to look at her preferring to gaze at a spot several feet above her head.

"Good then come here." Flora retorted.

"But the powder…"

"Leave it!" Flora commanded a small smile playing about her lips as her red faced husband made her way across the room. "My shoulder is cramping would you rub it better for me I don't want to disturb 'Ellie' as you put it!"

"But…" Jarvis began to protest before catching the no nonsense look on his wife's face and grudgingly capitulating and moving to rub her tensed shoulder.

"See there's nothing to be embarrassed about." Flora cooed.

"I said I wasn't embarrassed!" Walter hissed glaring down at the top of his wife's head.

"Fine uncomfortable then but you're going to have to get used to it; I can't have you running out the room every time she needs feeding."

"I'm not uncomfortable…I just realised our lives are never going to be the same again." He added softly. "It may sound selfish but I guess I finally grasped I am always going to have to share you from now on, that the two of you are going to have a bond that I am not going to be able to be part of, just seeing you with her made it all finally seem so real."

"Pardon but it was very real for me when I thought I might burst in two giving birth to her, something I almost had to do all by myself I might add!" Flora snapped. "Don't you go thinking I had forgotten all about that Walter because I hadn't and you have still to provide a decent explanation for your involvement with one of my so called best friends to stab me in the back!" She hissed trying to keep a lid on her hormonally charged temper for the sake of Ellie was contentedly suckling away oblivious to the brewing argument between her parents. "So don't you dare complain now about feeling left out because you have no idea what being really left out feels like."

"I only did it because I thought it was the right thing to do, I tried talking to you, hell Felix and even Molly tried to talk to you and make you see sense! We were only acting on the doctor's instructions…"

"Don't you dare blame the Doctor or Felix for this!" Flora retorted angrily getting to her feet and unintentionally dislodging an annoyed Ellie who began to grisle loudly causing her mother to panic and move to burp her. "From what I saw it was mostly you and Molly's doing, the Earl didn't mention anything about the Chef complaining about my ineptitude, just her! So why should I believe a word you say about the business?"

"I'm telling you they were involved as well, I asked them for help and they willingly gave it I had any idea you were going to go into…" Walter began but a now slowly fuming Flora cut him off.

"And whose fault was that I might add? First you start thing whole thing off with that impromptu and medically ill-advised little romp last night then you and your bit on the side expose me to extreme stress and emotional distress and then to top it all off you lock me in a room at the top of the house and then prevent anyone from coming to my assistance! And why?"

"Look Flora…"

"No don't you look Flora me Walter Corey!" Flora spat. "I'm tired and angry and your daughter is tired and hungry and I can't cope with arguing about this now…" Flora broke off her whole body wracking with unexpected sobs as she sank to the floor.

"Flora sweetheart." Walter called out taking his at first resistant wife into his arms and rocking both her and the baby gently. "You have my word, on my life…On our precious daughter's life that nothing improper has ever passed between Mrs Watson and myself, I admit having her take over your position was my idea and I encouraged the others to help but I swear I had no idea you would be so distressed, but honestly love how on earth would you cope having to get up in a matter of hours to organise the housemaids or check the stocks…"

"I'd have found a way…"

"You'd have run yourself into the ground with exhaustion and made both yourself and Ellie ill because of it! And you surely wouldn't want her to suffer?"

"No but you could have…"

"Talked to you? I tried my love I really did but you wouldn't listen you just kept pushing yourself too hard as usually and even I had no idea it would come out like this I promise you, I didn't expect his lordship to take the initiate for the first time in his life and actually sack you, I thought he would insist you take an extended leave."

"So you don't think I'm a bad housekeeper then?" Flora whispered burying her head in his shoulder.

"No never you're the best housekeeper I've ever worked with!" Jarvis replied immediately stroking her hair soothingly. "But isn't our daughter more important than any house or jumped up bunch of pompous aristocrats?"

"Of course I know that!" Flora snapped. "And I can understand why you did it! Even if I don't agree with your methods you did what you thought was best for our family but Molly Watson, she didn't just make those things up earlier she meant them!"

"Flora…" Jarvis began but suddenly stopped when his wife cut him off warningly.

"Don't you defend her Walter unless you want to give me reason to doubt your word!" She hissed softly.

"Fine I won't I'll leave your relationship with your friend to you!" Walter replied conciliatorily. "I'm not worried about Molly Watson I'm worried about you and Ellie you're all that matters and if you want me to go tell his lordship what an insensitive arse he was to my beloved wife then I will do it…" He trailed off waiting for her to tell him not to. "Flora I…"

"It's alright Walter I'm not so angry I'm suicidal!" She giggled. "She's gone back to sleep." She added shifting the sleeping Ellie in her arms.

"Well then that means so should you Mrs Corey!" Walter replied helping his exhausted wife back to her feet and assisting her back into the bedroom watching with pride as she put their sleeping daughter back into her bassinette.

"So tell me Mrs Corey." He added jokingly as he helped her into bed before following her a moment later and pulling his unresisting wife into a loving embrace. "Just how on earth am I supposed to carryout Miss May's instruction?"

"Hmm?" Flora murmured sleepily.

"That next time I'm having the baby?"

"Oh we'll think of something…" Flora yawned nuzzling into his shoulder and falling fast asleep whilst a contented Walter cradled her safely in his arms.

- - - - -

The next morning a very tired and very very late Walter Corey virtually tore himself from his wife and daughter's side heading towards his customary morning meeting with the Earl still buttoning up his shirt and tugging on his waistcoat and tails. He had made it all the way down the corridor and almost into the main house before he was ambushed by his underbutler.

"Good Morning Sir!" Adams greeted, more than a slight tone of surprise under his thick Scottish brogue.

"Good Morning Mr Adams, going somewhere special?" The Butler asked his eyes narrowing in suspicion as they lighted on the household books under his subordinate's arm.

"Ahhh well yes…I thought perhaps you might appreciate some time off sir, considering the circumstances!" Adams retorted shifting the books guiltily.

"As kind as that sentiment is…" Jarvis began holding his hands out for the books. "I think I had better deal with his lordship."

"As you wish." Adams replied reluctantly before handing the precious tomes over to their rightful owner and turning on his heels heading back to the safety of the servants quarters before suddenly stopping and calling back over his shoulder. "Congratulations Sir, a little girl I believe."

"Indeed!" Jarvis replied his entire face lighting up with the joy of fatherhood. "She's perfect, fortunately the image of her mother….Thank you Andrew for your help last night I really appreciated your support."

"Aye Sir." Adams replied unable to meet his superior's eye as all this mushy nonsense was making him increasingly uncomfortable. "Is there any instructions for the staff, anything you want to pass on…Her name for example? I know some ladies who are gathered around a certain fireplace making the last minute finishing touches to a particular present are most anxious to know."

"Eileánóir Kiera Corey" Jarvis replied proudly, this time not even stumbling over the pronunciation.

"Lovely…Her mother's choice I suppose?" Adams replied smiling knowingly. "It's just I think the ladies might struggle to fit it all on let alone spell it correctly." He added surprised to see Jarvis practically chuckle in guilty collusion.

"I know the feeling, but for everyday use its Ellie." The Butler replied pulling out his pocket watch and swearing when he saw the lateness of the hour. "I'm sorry Andrew but I really must be going, and tell that certain group of ladies I appreciate their eagerness but if they could hold off from visiting today, Mrs Corey needs a little time to recuperate…"

"Aye Sir." Adams nodded watching as the panicking Jarvis turned and darted down the corridor and for a moment he almost regretted not telling the Butler about his attire but then with a somewhat evil smile Adams realised he would find out sooner rather than later.

Meanwhile outside the Earl's study Jarvis skidded to a halt just as the great grandfather clock began to chime the late hour, panicking the Butler shot his hand out and stopped the clock before it could boom out just how late he was to the entire house. As a result he caught the sniggered whisper between the two footmen who stood as still as statues at the bottom of the grand staircase, and glancing up he caught his reflection in the long mirror. Whimpering slightly in surprise he quickly solved the problem by shifting the books into the crook of his arm and then with lightening speed fastening the open buttons of his fly, thanking his lucky stars that that morning he had remembered to put on his longjohns after all.

However despite having saved him from making more of an idiot of himself in front of his lord and master Jarvis was not about to forgive a certain Mr Matkin for that comment any time soon, the nerve of it implying he'd been off getting a bit of relief rather than by his wife's bedside, was more than Jarvis was prepared to tolerate. So putting on his best butler face he strode over the two footmen looking the pair up and down he tugged their wigs straight and huffed at the creases in their stockings before turning as if to head back to the Earl's study but not before landing a firm clip round the ear on a certain Mr Matkin, who flinched holding his now throbbing ear.

"You deserved that!" Joe muttered under his breath, unable to keep the smugness from his tone as Fred glared at him.

"Joe…" Fred began tp protest but the other footmen cut him off.

"No Fred, not all of us enjoy hearing you make crass and vulgar comments about your superiors, and Jarvis is certainly furious you're lucky all you got was a clip round the ear!" He added showing wisdom beyond his years.

"Ahhhhhh fiddlesticks!" Fred snorted turning his back on his former friend, all that lovey dovey nonsense had rotted Joe's brain and he was damned if he was going to start listening to it.

Meanwhile in the Earl's study the Butler had finally managed to slink in after a quiet knock.

"What time do you call this Jarvis?" The Earl's voice boomed out from behind the desk, not even gracing his butler with a glance.

"My apologies My Lord I was detained."

"Nothing life threatening I hope, I noticed the Doctor's carriage was here again last night, honestly the amount of times you call him out we might as well make him a permanent office here!" The Earl retorted snorting at his own joke.

"No nothing life threatening Sir it's just my daughter surprised us with her impromptu arrival late yesterday afternoon."

"Oh so that's what all the fuss was about I thought at least one of your lot was dieing from the carry on, honestly at one point I thought I was going to have get up and pour my own brandy!…A girl eh? Well better luck next time, I swear the only reason daughters exist are to try their father's patience, give them grey hair and attempt to spend the entire contents of their wallets!"

"Well it will be while before there is any risk of that My Lord…Now arrangements for the next weeks dinner are in hand, and chef has prepared a preliminary menu for your scrutiny…" Jarvis trailed off handing over the scrawled paper, which normally Flora would have written up in her neat script, and for the first time Jarvis thought that from a professional point of view he might have been somewhat hasty replacing his experienced housekeeper with a relative unknown.

"Yes…Yes…" The Earl mumbled placing the paper on his desk without even glancing at it.

"Then there are the arrangements for the summer games, the other household athletes will be arriving in a matter of days and we have informed them of the new competitions you asked for, the highland fling amongst others and the estate manager assures me he has the necessary timbers already culled…"

"Yes thank you Jarvis! However we are going to have to put that all off for a bit...My cousin has been so kind as to invite me down to Brighton for the rest of the summer...He seems to think the break from Taplows and all this mess" The Earl broke off waving around vaguely. "Well my health has already suffered as a result and well the sea air would be beneficial i am sure...So if you could make the arrangements, i'd like to leave by the end of the week, so see to it will you!"

Stunned to silence and unable to quell the burst of panic at the thought of being torn from his new family before he had even the chance to settle into the idea. "Yes Mi'lord." Jarvis could only gasp, clutching his books so tightly his fingers turned white. "How large a staff will you be requiring, will Lord and Lady Dalrimple-Sykes be joining you...Or Lady Mary?"

"Good Gods no! I need a proper break, i'm not taking that rag tag lot with me...No as long as i have a footman, my valet...Oh and send that Adams fellow along for good measure, need someone to keep the fellows in line. I am sure you will be able to keep the place from falling apart in , my absense?"

"Of course Mi'lord." Jarvis muttered, unable to keep in the breath he had been holding, and the look of relief from his face; which the Earl duely noted and his expression darkened.

"Now!" The Earl snapped, causing his Butler to glance up at him in surprise. "I am sure you are anxious to return to your wife!" He added a somewhat bitter tone evident in his voice as his eyes stared off into the distance so the butler took that as his cue to leave.

However just as he was opening the door the Earl added something, and if Jarvis had not been set in his strictest Butler mode he might have gaped in surprise "Jarvis a word of advice don't put the next one off for long, in the long run…" But whatever he was going to say was left unsaid as he quickly waved his Butler out. Shaking his head Jarvis closed the door besides him, considering the history he understood what his lordship was trying to say, but as he sneaked off to visit the two lovely ladies in his life he considered this might not be the best of times to mention it to Flora.

- - - -