CHAPTER 1

Hey guys, it's been a while, but I have found such comfort in this love story, and I thought I'd have a go at filling in some gaps. I don't know where it will go, but i've enjoyed writing the first few chapters.

The story begins after Jamie's moonflower monologue, out in the grounds of Bly Manor…

Their lips parted and their eyes met once more, having been lost in one another for what had felt like hours.

"You have no idea how long I have wanted to do that," Dani whispered shyly as the corners of Jamie's mouth pinched upwards. "You know, I have been kicking myself ever since that night in the greenhouse… I thought I had lost you…" She quickly retracted as she realised what she'd said, "I mean… not that I had you…" she blushed, "I just mean, I had ruined any chance… being crazy an' all," she said, smiling innocently.

Jamie smirked at the flustered young American. "Poppins, you're doin' wonders for my ego," came the husky tones of the playful brunette.

Dani tried to suppress a smirk, Jamie's sarcastic nature was one of the qualities she loved about her. She could always diffuse a situation, or put a smile on her face, whatever was happening, she always had just the right thing to say.

Being serious and talking emotions didn't come naturally to Jamie. She'd gone through life alone most of the time, and had built walls around her heart to protect herself. But there was something different about Dani. She wanted to share things with her, and wanted to know everything there was to know about her. She wanted to protect her, and take away the pain and guilt she felt, and feel it for her instead, if only she could. She wanted to see her smile, and be around to watch her bloom. The au pair couldn't see her own beauty, her own selfless, kind-hearted soul, but Jamie could see nothing but.

"Seriously though, you'd literally just told me about your fiancé… I felt like I'd pushed you too hard, and was so annoyed at myself for it, I just…ran, I guess… and I'm sorry… I shouldn't have left like that, I've regretted that night ever since too… But please don't ever think that I left cos of you!" Jamie was mortified and pulled her into her arms, one hand around her waist and the other stroking the back of her head. "Jesus Dani, I had no idea you'd thought that. I'm sorry…"

The au pair sunk into Jamie's body, relieved by the reassurance that what she was feeling was fully reciprocated.

The gardener had always been so calm and well balanced, something Dani had admired right from the very first time they'd met. She had this air about her, this confidence, this strength, and she couldn't help but feel drawn to her. With so much unrest in her own world, Jamie had been bringing her back to life, without even realising it. The young teacher had lived a lie for so long, she found trusting her own judgment so difficult now, but just knowing that Jamie was around, stealing glances, and being in her company, she'd felt a comfort in it, she'd felt safe, and that is something so rare for anyone to find.

Opening herself up tonight had just made Dani's heart burst even more for her. Jamie hadn't said woe is me I've had such a hard life. She had said life is hard for everyone, it has been hard, but life is also short, and life is beautiful when you get down to it, and there are so many reasons to be happy.

Dani had listened so intently, her heart breaking for the experiences she'd suffered, but bursting for the strength she possesses. She didn't talk of her life for her own benefit, she spoke of it to alleviate Dani of the weight she was carrying. This young woman was so incredibly inspiring and grounded. She had just appeared out of the blue with such a calming grace, Dani could barely remember how she had felt without her in her life.

'You're shivering!' whispered Dani, bringing them both back into reality. 'We should get you back to the house,' she said with genuine concern.

Jamie smiled and sighed simultaneously, not wanting this night to end, but knew it would have to at some point. She nodded against Dani's silky blonde locks, and reluctantly backed away, "Yeah, you're probably right," she replied.

The gardener began busying herself, putting out the lantern and folding up the blankets. She couldn't help but keep glancing over towards the young teacher, who was just watching her with a permanent smile across her face, which Jamie couldn't help but mirror.