It didn't take long for Flora to realise what an incredibly stupid idea this had been, storming off down the lane into the snow in her silk wedding dress without even a shawl. At first she had hardly noticed the cold her fury keeping her warmer than any coat, and so instead of doing the sensible thing and going to the coach for her thick woollen shawl she had stormed off back towards Taplows as if the four horse men of the apocalypse were hot on her trail. Now as the snow fell thick and fast the bottom of her heavy dress began to trail in the snow despite her best efforts to keep it aloft and free from any stain, her fingers too numb to grip the delicate fabric.
It was at that moment just as she thought things couldn't get any worse that she heard a carriage come clattering down the lane, panicking that she would be run over, after all a white figure against a white backdrop was not the easiest thing for a driver to spot especially when it was snowing as heavily as it was, Flora stepped off the road. Stumbling slightly as her delicate shoes sank into a bank of fresh untouched snow which quickly reached her ankles she forced herself to keep moving; after all she was just as close to Taplows and a warm bath as she was to the freezing church.
Shivering now in earnest, as the carriage pulled level Flora wasn't expecting the occupant to suddenly yell at their driver, causing the carriage to swerve dangerously and forcing her further on to the verge, tripping over her now sodden skirts Flora suddenly found herself sprawled in the snow, her already red and icy hands sinking into the deep drift and Flora had to stifle a cry of pain. Tears for both her doomed marriage and her freezing body trickled down her cheeks, and the housekeeper didn't even raise a hand to brush them away, she didn't even have the will or the energy to pick herself up.
However just as she had resigned herself to slowly freezing to death she felt a pair of strong hands grasp her firmly, wrapping a warm blanket round her shivering form before bending down and scooping her up into their arms and carrying her over to the waiting carriage. Opening her eyes slowly Flora quickly realised who it was who had rescued her, "Walter put me down!" She ordered hoarsely, her voice cracking from lack of use and the ravages of the cold.
But the butler didn't even reply, steadfastly carrying her over to the carriage then with the coachman's help stepping up into it still holding her tightly in his arms.
"I said let me go!" Flora ordered as soon as he sat them both down, feeling somewhat precarious and ridiculous perched on her husbands lap as the carriage pulled suddenly away.
"No." Walter replied softly but firmly, grasping the hem of her dress and sliding his hand underneath causing Flora's eyes to widen in shock, before returning to normal when all the butler did was remove her soaking shoes and seizing another blanket rubbed it roughly over her icy feet in order to get them dry and the circulation flowing.
"What the hell did you think you were doing?" He hissed after making sure that every exposed part of her was securely wrapped up. "You do realise you could have died….If anything had have happened I…."
"Don't be so dramatic!" Flora snapped. "I'm fine, the baby is just fine…It's our marriage that is in shambles, why her of all people Walter, do you find me that repulsive that even that slut is more appealing?" Flora demanded, unable to keep the tell tale pain and jealousy from her voice as the carriage slowly pulled into the servants yard.
"We are not going to talk about this now." Jarvis hissed as the members of staff who had been left behind to tend the Earl gathered excitedly round the carriage.
"Why not they're going to find it out from everyone else…" Flora retorted angrily. "The wedding disaster of the nineteenth century."
"You just promised to love, honour and obey me…" Jarvis snapped. "If you are unable to do the first two I will understand but as god is my witness you will do the third!" He added determinedly gently lowering her onto the seat beside him and handing her her ruined shoes. Stepping down from the carriage he held out his hand to his new bride and reluctantly Flora accepted letting him help down, before in dramatic fashion and much to the amusement of the assembled staff the butler scooped her once more into his arms and carried her into the house.
However much to the surprise and disappointment of the staff instead of proceeding straight into the servants hall where the reception was to be held the butler took his bride straight up to their room, an act that caused more than a few whispers and lewd suggestions to be circulated amongst the staff, particularly by Johnny who took it upon himself in Fred's absence to take over any role playing that was required. However had he any idea the scene that was now taking place upstairs he might have reconsidered his playacting.
On reaching their new rooms Jarvis had struggled to open the door, the strain of carrying his beloved along two corridors and up three flights of steps finally beginning to take their toll on the less than fit butler. But finally he succeeded, stumbling over the threshold and into their sitting room before staggering off through the open door to their bedroom and unceremoniously dumping his bride on their wedding present from the Earl, which fortuitously had turned up just in time for Christmas.
Wheezing slightly Jarvis flung himself down on the bed beside his wife, and for a moment pushing all the inappropriate thoughts from his mind, there would be plenty of time for that sort of thing this evening as he was damned if she was going to refuse him on his wedding nights of all nights. However all such thoughts were suddenly forgotten when the shivering Flora suddenly burst into tears, immediately concerned the Butler tried to comfort her but she pushed away all his attempts until finally he lost his temper.
"Would you just stop!" Jarvis snapped, jumping up from the bed and pacing distractedly round the room. His harsh stance somewhat abating when he saw her shiver, moving to the wardrobe and pulling out dry clothes, for a moment debating whether or not to give her his Christmas present that was hidden at the back of the closet but at the last minute realising this was not the best moment.
"Here we have to get you out of those wet things…" Jarvis added softly as he moved towards her. "We can't have you catching a cold and getting sick." He added as he moved to try and unlace her dress, frowning in annoyance when the housekeeper immediately pulled away from him.
"I can manage myself!" Flora snapped, trying to restrain the fresh tears that threatened as she fumbled over the tight lacings with her sore red hands.
"You can't manage, let me help!" Walter retorted, trying to push her hands aside and get to work on the lacings ignoring the very vocal protests of his new wife as he managed to get half of her dress unfastened before she pulled out of his reach, moving to stand with her back against the wall, hugging her dress against her in a effort to hide any glimpse of her revealing under-garments.
"Woman what the hell is the matter with you, its not like I haven't done it before, and if you think I am so insensitive as to try my luck now of all times then I wonder if you know me at all?" Jarvis snapped.
"I can manage by myself now!" She hissed coldly.
"Well then…" Jarvis replied, waving his hands dramatically for her to carry on.
"Leave." Flora demanded.
"You have to be joking?" Jarvis scoffed getting to his feet and closing the distance between them, a small thrill of pleasure running up his spine as he saw her back against the wall her chest heaving against her soaked dress.
"I'm not joking; I want you to go back to your old room. I need to be on my own."
"Damnit Flora what do you want me to do? Beg?" He demanded exasperated.
"Leave me alone!" She retorted. "I don't want to see you; I don't want to talk to you…."
"Well were do you expect me to go? This is my room as well now!" He replied. "And besides I don't see why I should have to go anywhere, I told you nothing happened…."
"And why is that?" Flora retorted pushing herself away from the wall and walking over to him accusingly. "Because you suddenly had an attack of conscience and realised you couldn't do that to me or because you got caught with your trousers round your ankles."
Shaking with fury Jarvis closed the remaining distance between them so that he towered over her. "Oh this from Miss Fidelity herself, how dare you stand there and condemn me, I was guilty of a momentary lapse; she came on to me I didn't go looking for another woman, she offered herself to me no strings no ties…"
"Oh so this was all about revenge then?" Flora snorted. "Your way of punishing me?"
"What if it was, I mean you are hardly in a position to complain! And I am only human Flora, what red blooded male could refuse a half naked woman when she…"
"I don't want to know!" Flora cut in covering her ears and turning away from him.
"Well that's tough because you are going to!" Jarvis growled roughly grabbing her wrists and forcing her back against the wardrobe. "I was going to come to you, I needed you but then she was just there offering me the chance to do things I never would, never could with you…It was one last fling and it would have meant nothing, unlike your roll in the hay with a certain footman, it was just about a physical urge nothing more, something I needed to get out my system."
"What are you saying that she could do something for you that I can't am I that repellent…"
"No because I love you, because you are carrying our child I could never be as rough or unfeeling with you, when we're together I want to make love to you not ravage you….In truth I wasn't thinking of revenge, I wasn't thinking at all."
"Liar!" Flora hissed her eyes practically boring into his.
Stunned Jarvis let her go as if burnt, backing away from her he felt his legs buckling under him and he slumped back onto the bed. "How could you think I would ever want to hurt you, I love you more than anything…I know I have a bit of a temper but I would never go that far…"
"Liar" Flora repeated.
"Well what do you expect?" Jarvis retorted. "You're the most difficult demanding woman I have ever known, I've bent as far as I'm going to Flora, let you get away with far too much that much is obvious! I should have kept you in your place from the very start!"
"My PLACE!" Flora gasped. "I'm not one your staff Walter, I'm your wife, you can't just bark orders at me and expect me to obey without question, I'm not an animal."
"No…" Walter replied softly moving to cradle his head in his hands. "You're not, you're my wife; the one person I loved and still love 'above any other'… I still mean every word I said, what was it months ago now?….God it seems like forever since then… What happened to us Flora? How as it gotten to this?" He asked softly glancing up at the still shaking housekeeper.
"I don't know…" She replied the words sticking in her throat. "I still love you; I just don't like you most of the time… You're so authoritarian, things have to be done when you want, the way you want it doing; you categorise and label people, and if they fail to live up to the expectations you have for them then they are to be tossed aside. I made a mistake Walter, I'm not perfect, far from it but there was no need to shut me out like that… Threatening to take my baby away if I disobeyed that was the last straw, I nearly didn't turn up today because of that."
"Well why do you think I did?" Jarvis cut in quietly, reaching out and grasping her hand gently "Hmm? It wasn't that I didn't love you or want you, I never would have sent the child away I just said it because I knew…"
"That it would hurt me." Flora added.
"I wasn't coping with having my heart broken, no not broken shattered, I couldn't risk letting you back in but I couldn't think of a way to keep you out, the only option was strike you back so you would stay away, give me a chance to rebuild those walls around my heart so you couldn't hurt me again… I thought I was back in control but then that night I spent in your arms, it made me realise how I had conned myself into believing I could live with you, but not with you…"
"That's why you wanted to send me away!" Flora gasped suddenly, the pieces suddenly falling into place; suddenly everything made sense, his behaviour, his aggression, and all the mixed messages.
"Yes." Jarvis replied softly.
"Do you still want to send me away?" She asked timidly raising her other hand to trace the side of his face.
"Never!" Jarvis whispered standing up and moving so close that Flora could feel his hot breath on her face, but still he didn't touch her. "I know now I can forgive you, if you can forgive me…Not just for my stupid mistake last night, but for every mean unjust thing I've ever said to you Flora. I want a fresh start, no recriminations, no bringing up anything from the past… We can make a clean break, you only have to say yes, promise to be my loving wife and I'll be your adoring husband, a proper partnership and we can be happy I know we can!"
"Do you really mean it?" Flora gasped her eyes welling with tears.
"Oh my darling girl I really do!" He whispered, leaning down and resting his forehead against hers, brushing his hands down the side of her face and cupping her jaw. "Just say yes." He added his lips hovering mere hairsbreadths away from hers. "Forgive me!"
"I do!" Flora whispered softly, her tears spilling softly down her cheeks as she gazed lovingly into his eyes this time not turning away when her new husband leant down to kiss her gently instead she wrapped her arms round his neck and kissed him back as though her life depended on it. Their gently tender kiss rapidly turning into something much more, as Flora ran her fingers through his hair pulling him firmly against her as she literally drank him. Jarvis's hands roamed down to the fastenings on her partially unlaced wedding dress making short work of the rest before breaking their kiss breathlessly and kissing his way down from her lips, along her neck and down to the collar of her dress. Before reverently kissing along her collarbone as his hands moved to pull the dress down her body and so engrossed was he in his task that he missed the mischievous smirk that appeared on the housekeeper's face in anticipation of his reaction.
Suddenly with one finally tug the dress literally fell from her body, pooling around her ankles and a stunned Jarvis practically froze at the sight. "No wonder you were bloody cold!" He managed to gasp out after a few moments of taking in the vision before him, from the white lacy topped stockings, to a pair of decidedly scanty French knickers, but it was the very low cut corset that practically took his breath away, the sheer material left very little to the imagination.
"So I take it you like your wedding present?" Flora teased as she stepped away from him, sliding onto the double bed and stretching out in a decidedly feline, and as Jarvis would say later decidedly sexy manner, pulling if possible yet more of her cleavage out from of the corset's restraint.
"What's the matter Walter don't you like it?" She asked saucily running her own hands across her chest. "Let me guess cat got your tongue?"
"Who are you and what have you done with my wife?"
Giggling naughtily Flora pouted moving her hand to allow her most enthusiastic husband to take over before beginning to rip at his clothing, tearing the jacket off of him in a few quick jerks, tugging at the buttons on his waistcoat and shirt then un-tucking his vest and pulling all three off over his head at the same time before rolling them both over and claiming his lips in an almost bruising kiss. "Flora stop teasing!" He gasped and so she did.
Half an hour later an a very out of breath but ecstatic Mr and Mrs Corey finally came up for air, Walter running his hands over the now very rumpled wedding present from Lady Rebecca. "I can't believe she gave you this for me!"
He chuckled. "I must remember to thank her later…I'll corner her at the reception."
"Oh my god the reception!" Flora gasped. "Your mother is going to kill us!" She added diving off the bed and dragging her abandoned dress from the crumpled heap of their clothing on the floor.
"Well its been nice being married to you for what it's worth!" Walter chortled swinging his feet off the bed and to the floor and wrapping his arm firmly round her waist, kissing along her neck before whispering in her ear. "You know we could delay the double execution for a while if we locked the door, I'm sure we could keep ourselves amused for a day or two…"
"And what will we do for food?" Flora snorted as she examined the terrible stains all over the hem and sleeves of her dress.
"Oh well we could sneak out when everyone is asleep, grab a couple of slices of wedding cake then dash back up here!" He retorted, walking over to the cupboard and pulling out the box hidden at the back before pulling on his long johns and trousers.
"Don't you have to go to London tomorrow?" Flora reminded him, trying desperately to think of a way to get water and mud stains out of silk.
"I'm supposed to, but I'll only go on one condition!" Walter replied tugging the dress out of her hands and tossing it aside running his hands down her curves and pulling her into his arms unable to resist giving her bottom a quick squeeze.
"Which is?" Flora asked softly.
"That my beautiful new wife comes with me!" He whispered brushing his nose down against hers.
"What are you sure?" Flora exclaimed excitedly throwing her arms around his neck as he picked her up and whirled her round.
"Oh I am sure!" Walter retorted before kissing her soundly on the mouth. "After its only fair I get to take my wife on honeymoon after all, and I'm sure mother can cope what with Molly to help her and it'll only be for a few days."
"We'll have to ask her…" Flora replied softly tracing her fingers across his face. "But considering we've managed to interrupt her carefully laid plans she might prove difficult.
"Well then I suppose we'd better go and show our faces before asking for a favour then…" Jarvis chuckled. "So I suggest you put some clothes on Mrs Corey, I think we've revealed enough to the rest of the staff today!"
"But the dress…Rebecca is going to kill me it's ruined!" Flora exclaimed.
"Well then I suggest you find something else to wear then, perhaps if you looked in a certain box…" He added nodding over to the bed where the box lay.
Smiling like a excited child Flora ripped the lid off exclaiming in delight at the beautiful light blue dress that lay in the crisp tissue paper. "Oh Walter it's lovely…" She exclaimed pulling it out of the box and holding it up against herself.
"Not as lovely as you!" Walter muttered, taking hold of the dress and holding it whilst she stepped into it, his practiced hands making short work of the fastenings, standing back and admiring his taste as his wife twirled happily in her new dress.
"So I take it you hate it!" He joked as he pulled his own shirt back on moving to the wardrobe to select a different neck tie and waistcoat, something that would compliment his wife's dress, a smile tugging at his lips as his hands settled on her Christmas present to him. "Tell me Flora did Felix help you buy my Christmas present?"
"Well now that you mention it…" Flora trailed off as she gave up trying to tie up her hair grabbing her hair brush and playing with her ringlets until they cascaded neatly down her back. "He came and saw me a few weeks ago I knew he was dropping very large hints, so I told him what I was looking for…" She added glancing over her shoulder at where her husband stood in his new waistcoat and necktie. "But they match!" She exclaimed.
"They do indeed, the cunning fellow." Jarvis replied pulling on his jacket and moving to stand behind her so he could examine his hair in the mirror, after a few minute changes he was ready. Offering his new wife his arm proudly they both headed out the door, hoping that they were in time for a glass of champagne and slice of wedding cake.
"Where have you two been!" Emily cooed, hurrying over as Flora and Jarvis made their first entrance into the servants quarters as a married couple. "Surely it doesn't take all that time to get changed, people are waiting to eat, there's the speeches to do, the cake to cut, it all can't get done without the vital participants you know!"
Flora appeared to ignore her mother-in-law's fussing as she was too busy gasping in amazement at the sight before her. "Oh Walter!" She breathed, tugging at his sleeve. The long table had been decorated with a beautiful ivory tablecloth with a fine lace edging which Emily had been able to purchase for a very reasonable price from the fabric shop in Tappleton, after a bit of negotiation of course, as well as a ream of beautiful satin ribbon which a few of the maids had made into elaborate bows which hung at the edges of the table. Flora guessed straight away that her aristocratic friend may have had a hand in funding the decoration, although she certainly put the cherub ice sculpture at the top of the table down to Felix' fine hands. No wonder he didn't have time to be Walter's best man, Flora thought with a giggle. The table was covered in the most stunning array of food, a banquet even His Lordship could easily be proud to offer his guests, with a large, honey glazed gammon joint as the main focus of the table. It all seemed a little strange to see such gorgeous adornment of food and fabric in the usually rather dreary servants hall, and it took her a moment or two lost in her thoughts to notice that her friends and colleagues were clapping and cheering the happy couple as Emily physically guided them to the head of the table.
"This is all so….unexpected!" Flora beamed, suddenly very aware of being the centre of attention.
"Well it all very nearly went to waste now didn't it? Are you still feeling sick my dear?" Emily quizzed Flora as Jarvis squeezed his bride's hand affectionately.
"No she is fine mother." Jarvis muttered, luckily for his mother's sake the sharp tone which may have normally been there softened because of his overwhelming happiness. Not even her constant fussing could dampen his mood he felt so buoyant.
"But……" Emily began, but her sentence fell away as she noticed the naughty twinkle appearing in her son's eye.
"Yes, well, you're here now, so go on sit down, the both of you." Emily flustered, desperately trying not to meet his gaze as she ushered them into their chairs.
Flora was so incredibly delighted to see so many people there to enjoy their day, and it felt especially strange to sit down and eat a meal with Rebecca; for once they were equal through their friendship and she found this most touching.
After everyone had gathered around the table to tuck into "the best food in Europe" the Reverend stood and stammered his way through grace, then the hearty wedding breakfast officially began. Adams felt he had died and gone to Heaven; his lover was at his side and he was faced with the biggest meal he had eaten since……well that morning, really. But he felt he deserved it for all his efforts that day including dealing with Jarvis at his worried worst, even if a disapproving look from the doctor did make him eat one less potato.
Towards the end of the feast, when everyone was quite obviously beginning to slow down through the sheer volume of food they were cramming into their stomachs, the under-butler indicated to Lizzie to fetch the essential ingredient for the next stage of the day, but with only a very small drop for Flora and Rebecca of course. Jarvis was absolutely gobsmacked that His Lordship would provide them with a couple of bottles of champagne on top of everything else he had done for them, but he decided it was because he was still feeling the generous after-effects from his joy at finally getting his money back in a few weeks.
"Alright everyone, settle down." Adams announced after gorging himself on trifle, crème Anglaise and a large helping of chocolate cake. He smiled broadly, tapping the side of his now full and fizzing glass lightly with a fork as the chatter began to die down and eyes swivelled in his direction. "I am sure you are all desperate to hear my speech, and if Mr Jarvis thought he would be spared the sound of my dulcet tones singing his praises just because I was only given a few days notice then he was very much mistaken!"
Laughter rumbled through the servants as they made themselves comfortable for what could be a very entertaining – and possibly job-threatening – speech from the under-butler. "Oh you're not going to bloody sing are you Mr Adams! Don't think our ear drums could take it!" George called out causing simultaneous groans and giggles to fill the servants hall.
"Yes I don't want anything to upset my new wife further today please Mr Adams!" Jarvis snorted teasingly as Flora sniggered into her hand.
"Alright, alright. Just the speech then, and I won't be too long as I know most of us have duties to return to." Adams tutted in mock disappointment, unfolding a piece of paper and studying it carefully. He had only had time to practice the speech once, in front of a mirror and with nobody else for comment. Rebecca had been bent over a chamber pot and retching so loudly he had given up after two lines and had gone back to his room.
With a slightly nervous smile, Adams looked up from the paper and scanned the expectant faces. He had never felt awkward about speaking in front of the staff (and his mistress) before, but somehow this was very different. "First and foremost, let me thank you all on behalf of the bride and groom for sharing this wonderful day with them. The obvious interruption aside, everything has gone wonderfully and I must say how beautiful the bride has looked today……."
Adams was interrupted by mutters of agreement and table-banging as Flora flushed happily, Jarvis leaning towards her and lightly kissing her cheek. "….and also how stunning the bridesmaids look……" Adams grinned, catching Rebecca's eye briefly in a loving but subtle gaze. "All I can say is that I am very glad that Mrs Ry….I am sorry I mean Mrs Corey….turned up when she did because it would have been very awkward for me to change my speech if Mr Jarvis had had to walk up the isle arm in arm with my sister or my…..or with Lady Rebecca!" Adams chortled, thanking God that he managed to stop himself from blurting out his not-so-secret secret and stealing the limelight from the happy couple, as eyes glanced at each other knowingly. With a cough, Adams decided it best to plough on. "Also, I should particularly thank Mr Kraus and his staff for such a lovely spread, and I know my daughter Elizabeth worked long and hard on the soufflés, which were delicious as always." Adams smiled proudly at Lizzie who smiled coyly and glanced away to notice Will staring at her with a small glint in his eye. "Although he is absent we should also thank His Lordship for his generosity in paying for the food Mr Kraus has so wonderfully prepared, not forgetting the champagne he has given us to toast the happy couple.
I have here an electrical telegram, would you believe – one sent from Ireland with love and best wishes, oh yes and your brother says he will come for the Christening, Mrs Corey….."
Flora gasped and elicited a small laugh of surprise. "Goodness, over for the Christening how wonderful….but the telegram, how…?"
"I have ways, I am Best Man after all." Adams beamed, winking at Jarvis who chuckled. It had been no easy task having an electrical telegram received in London, interpreted then collected by the London house to post to Adams. It had been rather expensive, and the Earl had paid part of the amount but Jarvis had forked out for the rest.
He had felt terrible that Flora's family couldn't be there to see one of the biggest days of her life, and he knew that by the time he had waited for a reply from them in the form of a letter the wedding date would have passed, so he had suggested in a letter to her brother that it might be a fine idea to send one of those newfangled – and expensive - telegrams from Dublin if the cost was covered by him. Obviously he had agreed to it and just that morning, to Adams' further relief, the transcript arrived from London in the post.
"This day may have been a short while in coming," Adams said, beginning his speech to a captivated audience as Flora wiped a stray tear from her eye. "But I am sure you all agree it has certainly been worth waiting for. I must admit that even me – the optimistic creature that I am – had my moments of doubt that today would happen but I am completely delighted that I was proved wrong although somehow I find it hard to believe they haven't been married a lot longer than only a few hours. I now realise that I was foolish in the extreme to even consider; may I call you by your first names for this purpose; that Flora and Walter may not have been destined to be together after all. They are obviously perfect for each other and completely compatible in every respect, even when it comes to raising their voices. I've seen – and heard – them argue and most of the time I can't tell who's winning so I'd say it was a match made in Heaven laughter but at least it shows there is passion in their relationship. And I am sure that if their children grow up to be are anything like their parents they will be the most organised and bossy people this side of Bristol……laughter…..but also the most thoughtful and generous members of society with a deep sense of duty and what is right. So I wish them all the best for the future.
Now let me take you way back to just over a year ago when I first arrived at Taplows and to how naïve I was in thinking that this place would be a calm, serene grand old house in which to work laughter. I was worried, believe it or not, that nothing much would happen here, that I would be bored when off duty because it would be so quiet, stuck out in the countryside with only the sleepy village of Tappleton miles down the road. How wrong can one man be?
This place sees more action in one day than the centre of bloody Glasgow during Hogmanay, so with all the usual interruptions around here it doesn't really surprise me that dear old Jarvis has taken so long to take his bride up the isle pause for loud snigger of smutty laughter from George and Will until Grace stares at them both disapprovingly, although I must admit I may sometimes have been responsible for one or two of his more minor distractions which were as one would expect dealt with in his usual, professional manner.
That is to say, of course, he would put me firmly in my place in the morning, but by the evening would still offer me a glass of the Earl's….sorry, I mean HIS finest malt and allow me to spend ten minutes in the pleasure of his company. And, of course, it was always a pleasure sir and I hope that married life and performing your all important duties as a husband as well as a butler does not prevent us from a little nightcap from time to time. Just like the night quite a while ago now which is altogether very distant in my mind, as I am sure it is Walter's, for more than one reason however, when we both thought it a rather excellent plan to drink copious amounts of Mr Kraus' most delicious and warming home brew rumbles of laughter as Jarvis blushed.
Now I know Mr Jarvis can hold his drink nearly as well as I can, even if he does optimistically think he can drink me under the table, but as I am a rather shy and retiring type and hardly one to blow my own trumpet I won't labour the point that out of the two of us it was certainly not me firmly between the underside of his desk and the carpet that night all amused eyes turned to Jarvis as he smiled in embarrassment. Of course this didn't prevent him from carrying out his duties the next day, because as we know professionals NEVER have hangovers. But, to Walter's credit, that night was only one of the very few times I have had to help him rather than it being the other way around. I suppose if I'm going to embarrass the groom on his big day with anecdotes he would rather forget then I should do the honourable thing and recall a time when he more than fully returned the favour of my help that night. I hate to be serious on such a happy occasion, but my best man speech would not be complete without paying tribute to the man whom I am convinced saved my life one night not so long ago. I was at my lowest ebb and if it hadn't been for Walter's selfless efforts then I may not be standing here today, or indeed standing at all, so for that I am eternally grateful and indebted to you. So thank you."
With a small lump of emotion in his throat Adams turned to glance down at Jarvis, who suppressed an awkward smile and simply lowered his eyes to the table so he could pretend everyone wasn't staring at him. With a smile, Adams decided it was time to lighten the mood. "But for some strange reason I often find myself in scrapes, so that wasn't the only time our butler turned into a life-saver, but this time it was rescuing me from the clutches of a large number of screaming and crying children and their parents. It was probably for their benefit rather than mine but I can tell you even though I was a little worse-for-wear it was probably the most terrifying moment of my life, and I am sure that both Mr and Mrs Corey would agree that I must win the award for worst clown of the year……" Adams trailed off as Fred slid up to him and whispered something in his ear. With a frown he flipped open his pocket watch then with a grunt muttered an inaudible response back to Fred who immediately dashed off. With a slightly flustered smile, the under-butler turned back to his audience and rescanned his sheet of paper.
"Well it seems our entertainment has arrived a little earlier than expected, so you probably don't want to listen to me wittering on much longer as I'm sure you're all desperate to stretch your legs so there is only one thing left for me to do." Adams beamed, taking up his glass. "So without further ado would you all stand so we can toast the bride and groom, and pray they have a long and happy life together."
There was a loud scraping of chairs as everyone except Flora and Jarvis rose to their feet, the smallest amount of champagne in every glass to make sure the remaining few bottles went round everyone for a small taste of luxury. Sadly one of the bottles had mysteriously 'vanished' the day before and not unreasonably all accusing minds had turned to one rather alcohol-dependant aristocrat who had spent all Christmas evening hiccoughing in the corner.
"The bride and groom." Adams announced proudly as the happy couple blushed crimson at such unusually affectionate attention from their staff.
"The bride and groom." Everyone responded in unison before sipping at their glasses, all except for Johnny who downed his immediately and was already looking around beady-eyed for an empty bottle just to make sure every drop had been squeezed from it.
"Don't forget to toast Her Majesty, Mr Adams!" Will piped up, seeming unusually buoyant considering what the day was symbolising.
"Ahh yes, to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, may she long rein over us." Adams said courteously, raising his glass and drinking to a repeating chorus.
"Don't forget His Lordship!" Dr Evans reminded with a small chuckle.
In the end Prince Albert (eventually after the Kraus/Prussia jokes had subsided) and every other member of the Royal Family, the Earl, Lady Caroline and each one of His Lordship's dogs seemed to have been toasted just for the wonderful excuse of having to drink every last drop of champagne in their glasses, and that was before drinking to the new Mrs Corey's absent family. The whole thing was eventually getting a little on the raucous side, but was put a stop to by Fred tapping Adams on the arm furiously.
"Look they want to set up, we need to get the table moved to the side!" He whispered frantically while everyone chatted and laughed merrily to each other.
"Alright, alright!" Adams huffed, indicating to the other footmen to get their well-fed bodies off their chairs. "There are only four of them, aren't there?"
"Yes only four of them, surely that's what makes up a quartet!" Fred sniffed sarcastically, but Adams had turned away from him at this point and was gently urging the wedding party to vacate the table so the hall could be turned into a dance floor. Jarvis had only had time to thank everyone for coming and say a few words of praise and adoration for his new wife before he and Flora were swept away by Emily to the other side of the room to ceremoniously cut the cake with the same knife Lord Julian and Lady Caroline had used on their wedding day. Jarvis resisted making any comment about it possibly bringing bad luck and alcoholism on their marriage and instead wrapped his hand around Flora's as she clutched the ornamental handle.
"This is all so wonderful, I'm so happy." She whispered to her husband as he moved in behind her. "But I'm not sure I have any energy left for dancing!"
"No, me neither." Jarvis chuckled quietly, a saucy smile spreading across his lips. "Even so, we'd best make an effort, but don't use up all of your strength my dear as you're going to need it later."
With heavy stomachs, the dancing and merriment soon got firmly under way. To Flora's delight a string quartet had been hired from Bristol, with a little help from Rebecca's purse, and was the main focus of the evening celebrations after Grace and Charlotte had delighted everyone with a new parlour song they had learnt. The junior servants came and went from the dance floor, pretending to know how to ballroom dance and falling about laughing as they stole a minute or two in between their duties while the bride and groom mingled amongst their 'guests'. It was so lovely for Flora to be able to sit and chat to Rebecca, knowing for once she wasn't expected to rush off, until Molly bustled up under strict orders from Emily to frogmarch her to where Walter was standing, looking a little nervous and glancing at the quartet as they brought a rather delightful piece to a close.
If their was a prize for the most enthusiastic best man, Adams would most certinately win it. One moment he was sorting out this and that, before doing his duty of checking that both the bride and groom were happy and of course a certain bridesmaid, however at the moment his attention was choosing another footman to keep their eye on Keneally. Joe had been with him the last 2 hours and it was only fair that the pleasure was past on to somebody else.
Will and George had been sat getting to know that doctor better and had found him most pleasant to pass the time with, while Grace and Lizzie had been whispering excitedly with Charlotte about her own wedding, even if the chances were that neither of them would be their, as Grace would probably be in India and Lizzie would be leaving with Lady Rebecca the following day.
Unlike the last time Lizzie was to leave, Will had paid much attention to the fact and had seemed almost depressed by the detail. The atmosphere between them had begun to get almost back to normal. He'd completely forgiven Lizzie for that whole business with his father and she seemed to have forgiven him for whatever had gone on with Mrs R- Cory, but he couldn't help feeling slightly indebted to her, a few days ago he was sure his world was about to end and now he was beginning to get himself firmly back on his feet again.
He couldn't help thinking were the pair of them would be if that matter with his father had never arose. Things had begun to happen between the pair and now they were finally back on the right direction she was to leave him. Maybe in a few years he could go and work closer to her, so they'd see each other more often than when Lady Rebecca came to visit Lady Caroline, which seemed to becoming less frequently. He'd do that, positive thoughts! However he couldn't help the sinking feeling in his stomach as he realised the reality of that ever actually happening.
Adams jerking Will out of his thoughts: Cosmo, your turn to keep an eye on Keneally I think.
George: What? Are you kidding me? as the memories of his conversation with the valet earlier crept to the surface of his mind I've already had a beating from him today, surely it's Will's turn to have the pleasure of his company.
Adams: You know that if Will were to go up there he'd be ripped into shreds, so you better get yourself up there Mr Cosmo. Will looks smugly at George, while he glares at the footman.
Will: Enjoy. grinning from ear to ear, as George storms out.
Lizzie: Poor George. whispering to Will
Will: Oh he'll be alright. nudging Lizzie with his elbow in effort to get a smile, which he receives most graciously.
Lizzie: You are in an extremely good mood today.
Will: Really? Can't say I'd noticed.
Lizzie: I'm proud of you William Forest, you know that? She smiles warmly at him, holding his gaze. Gently she takes his hand and squeezes it gently. I'm gonna miss you.
Will: Well you'll have to persuade Lady Rebecca to get down here more often. I'm sure you could find a way. breaking her gaze to glance at Adams, who's attention seemed to have been removed from his best man duties and was carefully watching his daughter and the careless footman. She nods, letting out a little giggle. Lucky sod. He mutters to himself.
Lizzie: You what? Raising her eyebrow, which she'd been practising at, her lip trembling in an effort to not laugh.
Will: Well you only have to look at Lady Rebecca and well Catherine Stanwick wasn't exactly hideous. This causes her eyebrow to rise even further and he quickly realised he better get himself out of this situation quickly. And quite frankly if your mother looked anything like you then he truly is the luckiest man on earth. Her eyebrow quickly resumed it's usual place, while her smile grew even more (if possible). Exceptionally touched by his words, she couldn't help the tears that well in her eyes, as she thought about their separation the following day. Leaning in she went to kiss him on the cheek, but the all seeing Adams beat her too it and quickly found an excuse to pull her away. Exchanging a knowing look with Will as she followed her father, she saw him mouth something about allowing him a dance later, which she quickly agreed to with a nod of her head.
Grace: I don't know how you did it Charlotte, but maybe you could give me a few tips. I probably have grey hair before George even considers marrying me.
Charlotte: I don't know how I did it.
Doc: You were purely yourself. he whispers to Charlotte and Grace, causing her to giggle, as he kisses her on the cheek.
Grace: Well I'm doomed then. she mutters to herself, glancing around the room for some hope of escape from the overly loved up couple, which made her slightly depressed, George was never that sweet anymore.
The footman in question was now outside Frank Keneally's room, taking a deep breath hoping to God that Frank was too exhausted to discuss anymore of his situation he opened the door. He quickly spotted Joe, who was just managing to stay awake while sat by the very limited fire, he jumped up quickly and almost ran over to George, completely relieved to see someone had come to his rescue.
Joe: He's either asleep or sulking. whispering to George and nodding over to the figure of Frank lay on his bed, utterly motionless.
George: That's the way I like him. Joe hurriedly nods in agreement before making a nippy exit. Sighing to himself he glanced around the room, wishing he could open up the window to let a little air in, but he knew after the recent incident the window had been locked, Adams had had to convince Jarvis not to bar up his windows and doors to make sure he could never cause anymore trouble ever again, but Adams had assured Jarvis it needn't go that far.
George had been in Frank's room a few times recently, checking on him and what have you, however this was the first he was able to leisurely look around his room. It wasn't as nice as Adams' or what he could remember of Jarvis' 'view', but it wasn't that bad, he'd swap it for the footman's room any day. Walking towards his desk he saw the odd bottle of ink scattered across the many pages and their was wax carelessly dripping over the sides, the state of which would have made a certain housekeeper almost faint.
Looking more closely he observed that many of the papers were letters, suddenly curious he began to shuffle through them and was surprised to see most of them weren't even addressed to him, some woman, all from the same man, which on closer inspection was most probably Mr Jarvis' brother. However their was an odd letter actually for him, nothing of any interest really, but their was one addressee he was especially looking for; a certain 'friend' of his, who was the only person who could have possibly told Frank any of what he had revealed he knew to him earlier today.
Frank: You won't find what you are looking for. I burnt all letters from him, no point someone finding them, my plans for blackmail would become pointless. George jumped and spun around to see Frank still lay motionless on his bed.
George: Blackmail?
Frank: Well not so much blackmail. sitting up and turning to face him more along the lines of getting back what is rightfully mine.
George: Grace. muttering to himself, and Frank laughs.
Frank: You have more brains than one might think don't you Cosmo? How you ever got yourself into such a sticky situation I'll never know. Stabbing that poor boy. Tut tut. shaking his head, mockingly. I should probably congratulate you actually for a terrific performance, pulling the wool over old Jarvis' eyes, then again though it doesn't take much, it took him over a month to realise his fiancé had had an affair, he hisses bitterly to himself and even then she had to tell him. Despite the seriousness of the situation, George can't help stifling a smile at this, but Frank's next words quickly wipe the amusement off his face. Won't be for much longer though, soon everyone will know, including poor little foolish Grace.
George: Frank listen-
Frank: Unless! cutting across him you do as I wish.
George: Which is?
Frank: Leave this place, leave her. Go as far away as possible and never come back. It's not too late, I can tell dear Oliver that you've disappeared again.
George: Never. he whispers and Frank's face turns into a slight smile as he lifts himself off the bed and walks towards him.
Frank: We've made an arrangement… Oliver's already told the police you are going to be in London tomorrow… what other choices do you have?
George: But you don't know what happened! It was self defence! he yells, for the first time since his arrival at Taplows, truly letting his temper out, lashing out a nearby chair, throwing it towards a wall.
Frank chuckling, though keeping his distance: Well if you can't convince me, how are you going to convince a jury?
George: Well a jury will listen to my side of the story for a start! Not bothering to contain his temper anymore, he knew Frank was trying to wind him up and he'd succeeded.
Frank: I'm all ears Georgie Boy. flicking at his ears with his fingers. Lets call it practise for that fateful day. All rise! he shouted loudly, putting on a posh, stern voice, before changing to the role of a judge and strutting across his room and sitting down by the fire. Please be seated! Changing again, before returning to be the judge again Now Georgie Porgie please explain the reason you stabbed a helpless man in self-defence. He pauses, waiting for a moment. My ears are open… flicking his ears again.
George sighing to himself: Piss off Keneally! I'm not in the mood for you stupid games!
Frank pretending to be exceedingly offended: Fine! If my acting is not up to your professional standards, fine! he pretends to sulk, folding his arms and sticking out his bottom lip. You are good at playing the experienced footman now anyway! I've only just begun my judge role!
Frank: Besides if you don't want to start rehearsing your speech for the jury now, the more chances of my getting what I wish later. smirking at him.
George: Look Frank, I'll do anything! Tell that son of a bitch Oliver Blyth that it was a mistake, you got the wrong person!
Frank: I've already named my conditions.
George: Anything but that! Please!
Frank: Well, well, George Cosmo- or should I use your real name, Sugden, begging me for a favour.
George: Alright, alright I'll explain! Will you then consider not turning me in for something that was an accident!
Frank doesn't answer, he didn't really care what the real story was, he was going to turn George in if he didn't give him what he wanted, the real details didn't matter, as long as he went down, for a long, long time. But then again, their was no harm in a little evening entertainment, after all how was he to know this Oliver guy could be trusted? He could at least get some idea of whether he'd lied to him or not.
George was staring at Frank, a pained expression on his face as he waited for a reply from the man who held the fate of his life in his hands. He could almost see the thought processes going through Frank's mind and after a while he saw the signal in his eyes for him to continue.
Just under two years ago, he began, stepping back to lean against the wall, resting his head back and closing his eyes to concentrate on bringing back the memories he'd tried so hard to forget. I lived in London with my brother, after my parents had left us. My brother would make sure that he brought in enough money for the both of us, so I didn't have to work, I was only 17 at the time and he was very protective. My brother worked in one of the factories on the other side of town, it wasn't actually all that bad, decent enough pay compared to the rest of the factories around that area and of course we had some money my mother managed to scrap together after father left.
Oliver Blyth also worked in the factory, he was a bit older than Richard, my brother and was in a similar situation to us, except he also had a wife and baby and depended on the help of his brother's wages to support them as well as his own. We all got on well enough, we lived close as well. We'd go out for drinks together etc. until Oliver began to struggle, all wages at the factory had begun to drop and unlike us they didn't have the support of their mother's will. Blyth got into some dodgy circles, you know the sort of thing that goes on in London; the big division between the upper class and lower. He only did it a couple of times, robbed some of the big houses on the outskirts of London.
This particular time Robbie, his brother was involved, poor lad, he was only 15 or so. Him, his brother and the rest of the gang had had a bit too much to drink though before they'd gone on the job, fools! Anyway, they caused a bit of a stir and darted back home, the police weren't far behind them. Oliver, however refused to go back home to his wife and admit everything that had happened and so they sneaked into our house, we were out at the time, down at the pub.
It was early in the morning when we got back, it didn't take us long to realise their had been a break in, Oliver had left one of his men to keep a look out and alerted them to our presence immediately. Robbie was the first one to reach the kitchen, he told us we'd better not say owt or else, but Richard said he was going to go to the police.
George pauses for a moment, shivering slightly, as his thoughts began to darken. Frank was watching him curiously, every moment, every flinch that flickered across his face Frank noted. He needed to know his weak spots if he was going to get George for this, needed to know where his details lacked and any body language which may indicate to him not telling the entire truth… this was slightly difficult however.
Robbie told us to stay still, neither of us were to move. He was pointing his gun at Richard, backing him up against the kitchen units as the others arrived. I tried to reason with him, but Richard was having none of it, saying they got whatever they deserved.
We were lucky that the rest of them were unarmed, one pistol between 6 or 7 of them was quite laughable really. I didn't know what to do. Robbie was getting more and more angry, I knew he was getting ready to do it, his attention was slipping from me and every word that came out of Richard's mouth made him sweat.
I can't remember much of what happened after that, he was about to squeeze the trigger when I picked up the knife from the kitchen side, one of the men shrieked and Robbie turned his attention quickly to me, he pointed the gun towards me, and before I knew what had happened, he was lay on the floor. There was complete silence for a moment, while everyone took in what had occurred.
Then there was uproar, they all dashed towards me, it was a competition to see who could give me the best beating. My brother some how managed to get them all off of me and he got me out of the house, I can still remember the exact words Blyth said as we left, 'I'll get you for this Sugden! You mark my words! You'll not get away with this!'
The next thing I remembered was waking up in a dark barn, I think I'd passed out, Richard was watching over me. As soon as I was awake he told me to get up, he knew they'd be after us, me more than him. He told me to get away, I was to search for job applications and when I found one suitable he'd help me get the job. I was to use a false name and make sure their was no one who knew any of my old connections.
It didn't take long to find the available position at Taplows, Richard helped write my character, told them what they wanted to hear and here I am. He opens his eyes for the first time and looks at the absorbed Frank. It wasn't my fault. I was protecting my brother, protecting myself. I'm sure you'd've done the same in a similar situation. Frank couldn't help agreeing with him in this, but he'd never ever tell him that. Surely you can understand. It wasn't a crime as such, I didn't set out to kill him.
Frank: Well that'll be for a jury to decide. standing up and making his way back towards his bed. Thanks for the bedtime story mate, I'll recommend you to Grace sometime, she may find your story very intriguing.
George: You aren't going to tell her are you Frank? Please.
Frank: How many times do I have to tell you? You've got a choice! Leave! Or I'll make sure you suffer! And don't even think about trying to get Grace to leave with you, because I'll find you, I'll catch up with you and Grace will pay just as much as you. he hisses.
That was the last exchange between the two that evening, Frank fell asleep quite quickly, but George sat watching over him, unable to sleep, his mind spinning he was completely clueless as what to do. How could he be sure Frank wasn't bluffing? He could be trying to wind him up. Make him give Grace away instead of having to fight him for her. What did he do next? His brother had always told him to stand up straight, keep your feet firmly on the ground, but never take risks. Even if he stay and Frank was telling the truth and the police and Oliver did catch up with him in London, what was to stop him loosing Grace? If he was found guilty she may never believe that the whole thing had been an accident. Either way the chances were he'd loose her, what was the point in landing himself in jail when he had his whole life ahead of him.
Leaving! It was surely the best decision… he could leave her a letter, explaining it all to her, that way she'd know he loved her, but couldn't risk it all.
But what if he did risk it and didn't loose her…?
"George! You're going to miss it!" Grace whispered furiously as she tapped on Frank's door lightly. George was suddenly jolted out of his trance, his stomach lurching as he heard Grace's voice for the first time since Frank's terrible threats. Rubbing his eyes frantically the footman crept over to the door, desperate not to wake up Frank and cause a scene.
"Miss what?" George replied a little curtly as he peered round the door to see his sweetheart looking exasperated, her foot peeping out from under her skirts as she tapped it and sighed.
"The first dance! You can't miss that, it's vital you're there." She suddenly smiled, beckoning him to follow her as the delightful tones of a romantic waltz flowed along from the servants hall.
"What the hell do I want to see that for, Grace? That's girl's stuff, all that romance…." George began, but before he could finish what seemed to her a rather poor and frankly inaccurate response Grace snatched at his neck tie and dragged him out, shutting the door quietly behind her.
"I'm sure Frank's not going to try to escape again, well not in the next few minutes anyway, you can come back very soon now don't be a spoil-sport!" Grace grinned, pecking George on the cheek then taking him by the hand lead him away as he rolled his eyes and tutted.
--------------
"I think you're meant to go and ask her, sir." Adams muttered in the butler's ear, a slight hint of sarcasm in his voice as he glanced over his shoulder to see the new bride raising her eyebrows as the quartet shuffled impatiently. Everyone had gathered to watch this often embarrassing wedding tradition so made Jarvis feel more nervous than usual. He would often be the first to enjoy a bit of firm attention from his staff, but usually only in response to his voice bellowing in their faces during staff meetings over the latest spot of trouble.
"But I'm not very good…..I can do a little but I've not had much formal training for this kind of thing, not surprisingly!" Jarvis replied curtly, but when the under-butler simply smiled he nodded in defeat. "Alright, alright, I'll do it, as long as you and whoever else you can find to unconvincingly shuffle a waltz gets up there after the first few bars! I don't care who you dance with, it can be bloody Johnny Boots for all care, just please don't leave me on my own!"
"Lady Rebecca did try her best to help you brush up on your, err, skills sir, but she said you had two left feet so what was a lady to do…..?"
"Yes, yes, thank you Mr Adams! Your speech may have been very eloquent but don't push your luck!" The butler huffed, before forcing a smile onto his face and stepping towards Flora who was waiting patiently at the edge of the dance floor. "Would you like to dance, Mrs Corey?" He whispered softly, stretching out his hand to take hers. As expected, she blushed slightly and accepted, glancing back at Molly who wrinkled her nose in encouragement and waved her towards the quartet. Jarvis gave them the nod and they gratefully struck up a romantic waltz, luckily Flora seemed to know what she was doing far better than he did so although he was surprisingly getting most of his steps right he allowed her to guide him far more than he would let her realise. The women who were spectating found it all rather lovely, and it brought a tear to more than one eye as the happy couple relaxed more into their dance, although it didn't stop some foolish antics from the back from a few footmen who should have been on duty. It was only after Adams shot Will a stern glare that the first footman stopped pirouetting and 'swooning' into Joe's arms.
"Have I ever told you how beautiful you are?" Jarvis whispered to the housekeeper at an 'appropriate' moment as they danced towards the back of the hall.
"Once or twice." Flora purred in his ear, suddenly lurching him towards her by grabbing at his waistcoat as their feet entwined almost effortlessly. "It's a good job you are such a handsome devil yourself, Walter Corey, otherwise I may have had to return the crunch you've just given three of the toes on my right foot." Before he could mutter an awkward apology and ruining the moment Flora kissed his lips lightly and spun round, and to his relief he saw a number of couples heading to join them so any more 'toe crunching' could be done with relative anonymity. He did, however, frown in not inconsiderable displeasure when he saw who Mr Adams' dancing partner was, but decided that he should stay silent for now, this was his wedding day and he didn't want to make a scene otherwise Flora might demand a divorce on the spot. The doctor asked his new fiancée to dance with little fuss, leading her away from her chair as she blushed crimson. She hadn't shown much physical affection for him in public before and now everyone would be watching them, and she hardly knew how to dance, but this didn't seem to bother him as he pulled her close and began to rock her gently.
Grace, on the other hand, had to drop the most unsubtle hints before it finally struck George what he should have been doing, leaving Will standing awkwardly with a beer in his hand, his eye briefly catching Lizzie's who was sat in between Molly and Emily and feeling a little left out. With a deep breath, Will slammed his beer down defiantly and almost marched up to the lady's maid and snatching up her hand unceremoniously muttered something about 'like to dance'. Very soon, even Mrs Diggins had been asked, to her utter delight and exclamation, to dance by Mr Simpkins, although the sight of the two of them less-than-gracefully moving around the floor together sent a group of whispering maids into a fit of giggles in the corner. The dancing continued for a short while longer, the music quickening as more beer was consumed and the night wore on. Eventually people began to drop away exhausted and merry, and Jarvis' mind had begun to turn to more carnal matters and the first night he would share with Flora as a married couple.
Flora had been so overwhelmed by the day she had almost forgotten to ask Molly and Emily if it would be acceptable for her to go with her husband to London the following day and leave Taplows in their charge, but before she could even utter the words Emily had taken her aside and patted her hand, smiling tearfully at her.
"My dear you HAVE to go with Walter tomorrow, it will be such a while until you see him again." Emily gushed, drawing the happily surprised housekeeper into a tight hug. "I am so pleased you are finally my daughter-in-law and my son has found the wife and the happiness he has always longed for."
"Are you sure you wouldn't mind?" Flora asked, concerned that the elderly lady and her new deputy may struggle without her. "It's just that….."
"Look Flora when you're the only woman in a house full of men there's not a lot you can't cope with after that!" Emily laughed, shooting a glance at Jarvis who had begun to yawn uncontrollably in a direct hint that he may very well wish to find comfort between the sheets before long. "I think he might be needing attention." Emily whispered naughtily to Flora, but it took a second for her suggestion to register with the new Mrs Corey. "Something tells me he's not really interested in having his ear bent by Felix now his wedding night's approaching!"
Flora felt her face beginning to burn up in sheer embarrassment as Emily nodded towards Walter as he glanced impatiently at his pocket watch while Felix thrust another drink under his nose. He was so busy trying to suppress his natural urges, his eyes raking over his bride that he failed to notice his best man reappearing from tending the Earl and smiling as he saw Lady Rebecca still at the party, obviously waiting for him to return.
Rebecca suddenly broke her conversation with Grace and glanced up at him, a feint smile curling her lip as she held his gaze for a moment then made an excuse to Grace that she was feeling a little light-headed so needed to take in some fresh air. Adams kept his distance as she wrapped her shawl about her shoulders and slipped out towards the courtyard, glancing back briefly to make sure he had seen her leave so he could follow her for a quick, forbidden liaison in the darkness. Quickly the under-butler checked around the room that he wasn't being watched, smiling in amusement as all heads turned not towards him but to the departing couple as they thanked their guests for coming and bid them goodnight. Emily was sure that she would almost burst with pride, but instead contained herself – literally – as Flora and Jarvis left the servants quarters to retire to bed.
Adams took this as his cue to leave too, hurrying out silently before any suspicious eyes could catch him to find Rebecca's warm, comforting embrace in the chilly night air. He could hardly bear the thought of the next day, leaving her and the babies alone to face the harsh journey back to Scotland and Hugo's rambling, lonely estate.
He knew Lizzie would be with her, and he trusted his daughter completely to watch over her mistress competently, but it was no substitute for the care, protection and support he could offer at this most sensitive time in Rebecca's pregnancy. He knew it was possible, if the household were delayed in India and he had no means of travelling to Scotland on his return, that he could miss the birth, that was bad enough, but he also knew only too well the risk to Rebecca's life and if he were to never see her again he could never forgive himself for abandoning her.
"There you are." Adams whispered, keeping a firm eye out for wandering footmen as he turned the corner in the courtyard to see Rebecca hidden in the shadows. Immediately he drew her into a loving hug then kissed her deeply, and although the crispness of the still night air stung their cheeks they hardly seemed to notice as their lips entwined more passionately, Rebecca sliding her chilled hands inside his jacket and wrapping her arms around his body to warm them.
"Oh, I am so going to miss you." Adams sighed, reluctantly pulling his lips away from hers so he could actually say the things he had been desperate to say to her all day. He kissed her forehead and ran his fingers through her long, fiery locks, letting her lean against him so he could try and support her body a little. "You looked so beautiful today, leaving you tomorrow will be even harder than the first time, I don't know if I can do it, Rebecca, I honestly don't."
"You mustn't say that, you have to go." Rebecca breathed, nuzzling his neck to warm her nose. "Remember what you were saying in your speech? About duty? You are still Algie's under-butler, when all is said and done. I have people to watch over me, and although I will miss you terribly we have to stay strong. You know our positions won't allow us to do much else, for now at least. My father has got to believe I'm carrying Hugo's children, as absurd it may seem to us, although the state my sister is in at the moment I wouldn't be surprised if she went straight up to him and told him everything."
"He'd never believe her, you know he wouldn't." Adams reassured her, letting his hand drift gently across her stomach. "He knows what a spiteful little madam she is, he adores you, it would be mad to suggest the babies weren't Hugo's."
"I'm just so scared, Andrew." Rebecca squeaked, unable to hold back the emotion which was filling her eyes with warm tears as she pulled him tighter against her. "I'm scared of what could happen to you, going so far away, and what if I don't hear from you for six whole months? What if….what if you don't return? You must try to write, even if the letters don't reach me."
"Of course I'll write, every day if I can, and listen to me," Adams said firmly, taking her chin and pushing her head up slightly so he could look into her eyes imploringly. "I WILL come back to you, I promise, you do believe that don't you?"
All Rebecca could do was nod emphatically as the tears finally succumbed and trickled down her cheeks, and she could feel her knees weakening as the cold finally found its way through her layers of skirts. "I don't feel very well, I need to go to bed I think." She sniffed, shivering as the warmth of the shawl finally turned cold.
"Do you want me to follow you on, to be there for you? Or would you rather be alone?" Adams asked hopefully, desperately trying to hide the amorous side to his thoughts and instead actively promote the idea he wanted to be there to comfort her.
"Come if you like." Rebecca smiled teasingly, even the thought of being apart from him unable to stop her playful nature creeping in at such a silly question. "You can either make my last night under this adorable roof pleasurable or you can leave me to sob, which would you rather?"
"Damn you, Becca, if you weren't in such a vulnerable state I would ravage you here." Adams smiled as Rebecca leant forward and kissed him softly again before winking and trotting off back to the house as the lights began to go out all over the servants quarters.