Her Secrets

by Marvel'sWhovian

Cerys has always lived life on the sidelines. She was a quiet observer. One night she meets a mysterious man who's first words to her are "Run!" From that moment she is hooked. As time goes by she learns that she's not just ordinary. There's more to her that meets the eye and in the end, it could destroy everything. She is impossible and she has a secret that no one must know.

51. Human Nature

Hey guys. Don't forget to vote on what I should name my new OC. So far, I think there's been about four or five votes total. It's up on my profile so vote if you haven't already done so.

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The three of us ran into the Tardis closely followed by a blast from an energy gun, which narrowly missed me. I moved to turn around but remembered why the creatures were after the Doctor and me and thought better of it. We didn't even know how the trip had ended the way it did. One minute we were at the Ethrial Gardens and the next we were running for our lives, being chased because of what we were and what we could do. "Get down!" I yelled as I slammed the door shut before any of us were shot. I quickly apologised to the Tardis for using her as a shield, earning a low hum from her. Rushing to the console, I began to input coordinates, trying my hardest to get us away from the creatures.

"Did they see you?"

"I don't know."

"But did they see you?!"

"I don't know. I was too busy running."

The Doctor looked up from the console and rushed to her, causing the woman to jump. "Martha, this is extremely important. Did they see your face?"

"No, they couldn't have." I nodded and the Doctor joined me back at the console, putting in coordinates.

"Off we go!" the Tardis flew into the vortex. Not a second later, an alarm began to sound. "Argh! They're following us."

"How can they do that? You've got a time machine."

"Stolen technology- they've got a Time Agent's vortex manipulator. They can follow us wherever we go, right across the universe. They're never going to stop, unless… we'll have to do it."

I stared at him, my hearts racing as I realised exactly what he was trying to say. I shook my head, eyes wide. I was not okay with this, not even if it saved my life. The notion terrified me to no end and the pain, at least for me, would be unbearable. The last time almost killed me, and I really didn't want to relive that. "Doctor…"

"I know. But I have to keep you safe Rys. I can't let them take you."

"I just got myself back." My voice cracked as the tears began. The Doctor pulled me to him, holding me close. He knew exactly what I was thinking, why I was terrified. It wasn't only that though, it was another way that illustrated just how different I was from the Doctor. "I don't want to go back in there."

"I know. We'll do it together."

"No. It's so much worse for me. I don't go into a watch. Everything I am goes into this bracelet."

"Rys, no matter what, you'll still be you. I'll be with you until it finishes."

"Promise?"

"I swear." I sighed and pulled off the bracelet, moving to the monitor and inputting controls before placing it in the holder, the charm facing up. "Martha, you trust us, don't you?"

"Of course I do."

"Because it all depends on you."

"What does? What am I supposed to do?"

He held out an ornately decorated pocket watch. "Take this watch 'cause my life depends on it. This watch, Martha. This watch is-"

I sat up, wiping away a stray tear that fell, feeling as if I were that Rys woman. It was such an odd notion, that I was another person, someone in hiding. She seemed so strong, so happy and to witness the fear she felt, it shook me. Yet, I couldn't help but smile that a man resembling my husband stood by her side. It was almost as if he would always be there by my side, even if we happened to be different people. That was something that made me extremely happy.

Looking to my left, I saw John sleeping soundly, his expression peaceful. I could never understand how I'd gotten so lucky. He was everything and so much more to me. It was a rare occasion this happened in the world and knowing myself, I would never give him up, not even with the onslaught of women looking to pursue him. They didn't matter. As I inched out of the bed, I felt his arms wrap around my waist as he pulled me back into him. My back was to his torso and he only pulled me closer, causing me to let out a small giggle. "And where do you think you're going, Mrs Smith?"

"To prepare myself for the day, Mr Smith," I replied turning to face him. I looked into his eyes; those warm chocolate brown eyes that I loved dearly. They fit him so well. John was the most the caring and compassion man I'd ever met. As children, he always had the female populous chasing after him but they never truly knew the sort of man he was. The boys would make fun of his due to his interest was actually in learning and not so much in chasing said girls. Yet, it was also known that he could continue his interest without worrying about putting off these young women. They loved his physical attributes and while he was wonderfully attractive, it was his intellect and thoughtfulness that drew me to him. I found I didn't have to worry much about having nothing to talk about with him and no topic was ever off limits. He wasn't like the other men who considered women his property. No, he considered me an equal, even in childhood. Then again, everyone seemed to know we would end up together. There was never a time we were separated and when we were, we were often put off. But together, it was like we were one person, our brains on the same wavelength and always finishing the other's sentence. It was like Plato's story and he was my other half, my soul mate. As we remained that way, gazing at the other, there was a knock on the door.

Groaning, he released his grip from waist and turned to the door. "Come in."

Martha entered the room carrying a breakfast tray. Seeing us still in bed, she turned, returning to the door. "Pardon me, Mister and Missus Smith. You're not dressed yet. I can come back later."

"Nonsense," I replied as I stood, pulling on a dressing gown and handing John his. "Care to join us? We were just about to share our dreams. We've been having such extraordinary ones."

Martha placed the tray on a table and opened the curtains. "What about, Ma'am, Sir?" John stood and began to pace the room.

"I dream I'm this - adventurer. This daredevil, a madman. 'The Doctor', I'm called. Cerys was there as well," he wrapped an arm around my waist and kissed my temple, "my lovely wife even then. And last night I dreamt you were there, as my… companion."

"A teacher, a businesswoman, and a housemaid, sir? That's impossible."

"I'm a man from another world, though."

"Indeed you are." I smiled up at him, kissing his cheek. "You've been sent to me from another world."

"It is you who has been sent to me, my dear."

"Well, it can't be true 'cause there is no such thing." I glanced at Martha to see her smiling softly at us.

"This thing.- the watch it…" he trailed off, picking up his pocket watch from the mantle before setting it back down. "Ah, it's funny how dreams slip away. But I do remember one thing; it all took place in the future. In the Year of Our Lord two thousand and seven."

"I can prove that wrong for you, sir. Here's the morning paper. It's Monday, November tenth, nineteen thirteen, and you're completely human, sir, ma'am. As human as they come."

"Mmm, that's us. Completely human." I smiled at him before watching Martha leave. John then began to dress for the day. Turning to face me once his trousers were on. "What will you do today?"

"I have some business to tend to in town. I shouldn't be long, if all goes well with Mr Farrier. He's been a terror this few days. But I think I can convince him to the set terms. It would be horrid to lose such a property." He nodded, finished with his task. He gave me a kiss, one that left us both a bit breathless before he left the room, only to return a moment later and kiss my temple before leaving again. Smiling to myself, I dressed and left the school for town.

An few hours or so later, I returned to Farringham School, happy with the work I had gotten done. Since we'd arrived, I'd taken to writing, jotting down whatever came to mind, most which ended up being dreams. I usually brought about a journal but I had left it for John, knowing that he'd want to add some things of his own. It was fine though, I didn't mind adding my bits at a later time. If anything, it gave me a bit more time to my thoughts. I've also found that my best ideas arrived when I was away from the school, well, alone in general. The place seemed to be a vortex of negativity for me, especially considering they were teaching young boys to be soldiers, to be killers. While they seemed unaffected at the moment, how would they truly feel in the midst of battle? Would they really be thankful? Would they be happy? I didn't think so. If anything, they'd be terrified, but, I digress. The meeting with Mr Farrier had also gone quiet well, the man finally agreeing to the conditions written up. However, I had to thank my charm for that. It made it slightly easier when conducting business with chauvinistic men who considered women to be the inferior of the genders. My sister, Rose, had always been against it, having once said men should fair us, considering we bleed as if we were injured and still live. A small but sad smile played on my lips as I thought of her. I missed her dearly but there was nothing I could do. I'd never see her again, having lost her to illness. Shaking my head, I made my way indoors. Walking through the corridors, I overheard two boys speaking to Martha.

"Tell me then, Jones, with hands like those, how can you tell when something's clean?" Hearing that, I stormed over, grabbing the boys by their ears. If there was one thing I disliked most, it was when others were being put down. It angered me greatly and the fact that it was normal did nothing to aid my displeasure.

"Now, I don't think that was very courteous, do you, Hutchinson?"

"No, ma'am."

"Then why did it leave your mouth? To speak to someone as if they were beneath you, is that is what you are being taught?"

"She is beneath us, Mrs Smith. She's a servant."

"That's quite shameful. You might one day run this country and I fear the day when it arrives. Everyone is and should be equal, no matter skin colour or status." Hutchinson looked away, a bit shameful. His friend on the other hand seemed to not care at all. Sighing, I knew I could do nothing to change the mentality of all the young men with views such as the two. "Now, apologize to her."

"Sorry."

"Good. Off you go. I would hope not to hear such words leave your mouth again."

"Yes, ma'am," Hutchinson said as he and Baines walked up the stairs.

"Thank you, Mrs Smith. I appreciate it."

"I do dislike when one is uncouth. Please, if it happens again, don't hesitate to tell me."

"Yes ma'am."

"Have a good evening ladies."

As I walked into John and my room, I found the Matron tending to John, him wincing as she did so. I couldn't help the smile that found its way on my lips as I walked to his side and placed a hand on his shoulder. "What happened?"

"Mr Smith fell down the stairs."

"Head in the clouds?" I chuckled. The man was an accident magnet, always getting into something and getting hurt in the process.

"It is no laughing matter. He could have been seriously hurt."

I narrowed my eyes at the woman, not at all appreciating her tone. I knew John better than anyone and with a glace I'd be able to tell if he was truly hurt, which, he wasn't. "Yes, he could have been but he wasn't. John happens to be quite resilient."

Martha then burst into the room, worry written on her face. She had been with us for such a long time that when he was injured, she would rush to his side. She was one of the biggest worriers I knew. "Is he alright?!"

"Excuse me, Martha. It's hardly good form to enter a master's study without knocking."

Martha moved to leave the room but I grabbed her hand, keeping her from doing so. "Pardon me, Matron, but Martha is merely concerned about him. I'm sure good form barely matters."

"Thank you, Ma'am. But is he alright? They said you fell down the stairs, Sir."

He waved a hand, attempting to dismiss Martha's notion and worry. "No, it was just a tumble, that's all."

"Have you checked for concussion?"

"I have and I daresay I know a lot more about it than you."

"Sorry. I'll just… t-tidy your things."

"Matron," I began sharply, "it would be best if you refrain from speaking to Martha in such a manner. She has been with my family for many years and has become family to me."

"Her master is Mr Smith," the woman stiffly replied, gaining an eye roll from me.

"Quiet right, but that is only because it seems men claim rights to just about everything these days. She arrived with me and you will not speak to her in such a manner."

John reached out and placed a hand on my forearm. "I was just telling Nurse Redfern- Matron- um, about my dreams," John interjected, trying to defuse the tension. "They are… quite remarkable tales. Um… I keep imagining that we're someone else, and that we're hiding."

Intrigued, the woman turned her attention to John, ending our staring match. "Hiding? In what way?"

"Um… almost every night." He began to chuckle. "This is going to sound silly…"

"I have yet to laugh at your silly dreams."

"Yes, it's a wonder you haven't."

"Tell me."

"I dream, quite often, that- I have two hearts."

"Well then, I can be the judge of that. Let's find out." I watched as Nurse Redfern placed her stethoscope on his chest. "I can confirm the diagnosis. Just one heart, singular."

"But it would be lovely to have two. More to love another with," I mused.

"I feel it would be dreadful. It will lead to more heartache. Childish musings should be kept to yourself."

John squeezed my arm in a comforting gesture, doing his best to silently calm me. Yet, I'd had enough of the Matron's words and refused to be calmed. "I beg your pardon, Matron? While sitting in this room, might I ask you refrain from insulting me. I do not take kindly to it."

"This is not your room. It belongs to Mister Smith.

"Missus Smith, would you like me to prepare some tea? I managed to find your favourite."

"No, tea is not what I require at the moment but thank you, Martha. Take the rest of the day to yourself."

"Ma'am…"

"Please, Martha. It has been a very long day and I fear it will only grow longer."

"Yes, Ma'am," Martha replied as she left.

"Now, as you were saying, John."

"I have er, I have written down some of these dreams in the form of fiction. Not that it would be of any interest."

"I'd be very interested."

"Well, I've never actually… shown it to anyone besides Cerys and Martha. Cerys has written a few pages herself, actually. She's quite exceptional with a pen."

"I'm sure," the Matron said as John handed her the book we'd written. "'A Journal of Impossible Things'." She flipped through the pages. "Just look at these creatures. Such imagination."

"It's become quite a hobby for us."

"It's wonderful. And quite an eye for the pretty girls."

"Actually, I drew her. She always seemed like a sister to me, much like my own who perished from illness. Her name was Rose. She disappeared though."

"It is a dream, not reality, young lady." I gritted my teeth, feeling myself grow more frustrated with the woman. I had grown to accept that women became enthralled with John, not that he ever noticed, but to openly insult me was another thing. I could see him growing uncomfortable with her jibes but unlike me, he tended to push the conversation forward, ignoring the problem until it reached a point that gave him no choice but to remove the source. While protective of me, he also knew I preferred to hold my own, hence why he had yet to say anything.

She then turned to a page with a small drawing of the box. "Ah, that's the box. The blue box. It's always there, um… like a- like a magic carpet. This funny little box that transports us to faraway places."

"Like a doorway?"

"Mmm. I sometimes think how magical life would be if stories like this were true but then I remember I have the most amazing woman by my side and it doesn't matter."

I smiled, seeing exactly what he was doing and my tension quickly eased. "I am hardly that amazing."

"But you are. Without you, I'd be lost."

"You would have beautiful women chasing you."

"And I wouldn't want them, not if I could have you. The day you said yes, was nothing compared to the day we wed. You've made me the happiest man in the world, Cerys."

"And you've made me the happiest woman. I couldn't ask for a better husband."

"You're married?"

"Yes. Have been for six years."

"You never said."

"I believe Martha called me Missus Smith. Matron, I understand it is quite hard not to fall for the man and I have no qualms with it. What is the problem is when I am disrespected. Please see to it that you remember that."

"May I read it, the book? I'll return it once I finish it."

"Of course. Thank you for your assistance Nurse Redfern."

"It is but my duty," the woman said as she exited the room, leaving John and me alone.

Sighing, I collapsed onto the bed beside John. "I fear this is becoming quite troublesome."

"What is?"

"Your charm. I feel as if I must fight off any woman who shows the slightest interest."

"They are not you, Cerys. You're the only woman who has my heart. Always have been."

"As you've had mine."

John jumped to his feet and grabbed my hand, pulling me from the bed. "Would you fancy a walk?"

"Of course," I replied, letting my hair fall from its bun. John's hand immediately caught a strand and tucked it behind my ear, smiling down at me. It was an odd colour, something that set me apart from the other women but I didn't mind. John loved it, spending most nights playing with it before we fell asleep.

John and I found ourselves in good conversation as we walked down the path under the star littered sky. The cold air seemed to make the stars shine brighter, and while it was beautiful nonetheless, I couldn't hide the shiver that ran through my body. Seeing that, John removed his overcoat and placed it over my shoulders, much to my protest. He quieted me with a kiss, knowing that had always been the best way to silence me. Yet, it also was how I hushed him, especially when he went on rambling about nothing. In all honesty, we enjoyed the act of kissing and would use any opportunity to do so.

As we drew closer to the town, I noticed Martha and her friend Jenny sitting outside the pub with the Matron, the three were looking up at the night sky, as if they had seen something extraordinary. I eyed them curiously, glancing up as well, feeling as if something were to happen. "Anything wrong, ladies? Far too cold to be standing around in the dark, don't you."

"There, there. Look in the sky."

I kept my gaze on the sky, seeing John look up from my peripherals. Suddenly a streak of green light crossed the sky. "Oh, that's beautiful." Jenny muttered, more to herself.

"All gone. Commonly known as a meteorite. It's just rocks falling to the ground, that's all."

"It came down in the woods."

"No, no, no. No, they always look close, when actually they're miles off. Nothing left but a cinder."

"I think it did fall into the woods, John. Sometimes they land close by. Maybe that was one?"

"It could be," he shrugged, kissing the top of my head. I caught Martha's smile at us as he did so. "Now, I should escort you back to the school. Ladies?"

"No, we're fine, thanks."

"If you wouldn't mind?"

"Then I shall bid you goodnight."

Before we walked away, I turned to Martha. "Be careful. I expect to see you well rested and safe in the morning."

"Of course, Ma'am." With that, the Doctor, Matron, and I returned to the school grounds, Nurse Redfern leaving us when we reached the main building.

Removing my dressing gown, I sat on the edge of the bed, looking out the window. For as long as I could remember, I had been fascinated with the night sky, having to see it before I slept. It used to drive my parents mad when I was a child, but John had always seemed unfazed to my odd requests. In fact, he found them endearing. While he was a History professor, he was interested in science as well and would also enjoy staring at the night sky with me. He was so full of knowledge and we often found ourselves sharing the knowledge we both had acquired over the years. Our connection and understanding of the other always made me grateful that he was my husband and that he was nothing like the other men, that we were equals, and that I wasn't considered his property. At times, I found myself wondering if he were real, someone who had been perfectly crafted to me and I was to him. I leaned back, feeling his arms wrap around my waist. "What are you thinking about?"

"You and how this all seems like a very wonderful dream. I keep thinking I'm going to wake up and you'll be gone."

"I'm not going anywhere, Cerys. You're stuck with me."

"Promise?"

"I swear. Come to bed. I'll show you this is more than a dream." I giggled and let him lead me to the bed.

I sat up, seeing Martha setting a tray on the table. Looking beside me, I saw John was still asleep, something that didn't surprise me at all. The man loved his sleep, often having to rush out the room due to his oversleeping. Then again, I always gave into his request for a few more minutes. Slipping on my dressing gown, I sheepishly smiled at her and silently apologized for our state of undress. She just nodded, giving me a knowing smirk before quietly slipped out of the room. Leaning over, I gave John a kiss, waking him from his slumber. "I do love waking to your beautiful face."

"As I your handsome one but if you don't rise, you'll be late for your class."

"Is it time already?"

"Yes. Martha has delivered breakfast and prepared your clothes, although I don't know why. You're quite capable of doing it yourself. But get up, you only have twenty minutes."

"Right, of course," he replied, leaving the bed. I smiled at the view before me, seeing his cheeks take on a faint red. He quickly reached for his clothes and pulled them on.

"Nothing to be shy about, dear. It is not the first time I've seen you undressed."

"Yes, er, well…" I stood fixing his tie. "Thank you." I nodded and placed a fleeting kiss on his lips. "Meet me in my study after classes. There is something I wish to show you."

"Alright," I answered before he gave me one more kiss and left the room. Smiling, I bathed and dressed, grabbing a piece of fruit off the tray before leaving the room.

Walking through the corridors, I looked around for Martha. I had hoped to apologize for the sight but could not find her anywhere. I did feel bad that she had walked in on that. While it had happened multiple times in the past, John and I were always careful to lock the door, an agreement the three of us had come to after the last time. This time, however, we were so interested in the other that we'd forgotten. Ready to give up, I finally found her walking towards me. "Martha."

"Ma'am? Is everything alright?"

"Yes. I just wanted to apologise for this morning."

"It's alright. Been a while since I've caught you two."

"We forgot to lock the door last night. I don't think you'll walk in on us again though. This only reinforced his embarrassment from what happened in his father's home."

"You're glowing though."

"Thank you. Maybe we should find you someone," I lightly teased although I was quite serious.

"No. I'm quite fine."

"You can't serve me forever. No, I want you to have your own life, one that doesn't involve being looked down upon and treated lesser than others. You deserve it."

"Thank you, Missus Smith, really. But I'm fine here. Honest. You have been very kind to me and I couldn't leave you, not after all we'd been through."

"That means so much to me, Martha. But I have never seen you as a maid. You're a friend so please, call me Cerys."

"But it's- it's not right."

"If anyone says a thing, send them to me. What happens in the Smith residence remains our own business."

"Of course, Ma- Cerys." I smiled and bid her a good day before making my way to John's study.

Reaching, I heard him speaking to one of his pupils. I smiled as I heard him reveal a bit about himself as a young man. When I'd heard him move around a bit, I lightly knocked on the door, alerting them of my presence. "Hello," I said, walking in. Standing in the middle of the room was the young boy. He looked extremely nervous, as if he'd been caught in the middle of something bad. I just smiled at him, not wanting to make the already skittish boy even worse. "Timothy Latimer, right?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

"How are you today?"

"Well, thank you."

"Glad to hear." I stood beside Tim and gently nudged him. "He's right, you know. You are clever. Don't worry about your classmates, eh. Just be fantastic."

"Yes, Ma'am," the boy replied as he took the book John held out to him, quickly leaving. "Thank you, sir." John just nodded and came to my side, wrapping an arm around my waist. Thankfully, Tim had closed the door behind him so our small display of affection went unseen.

"What is it that you wished to show me, John?" He smiled and reached into his pocket. A moment later, held up a thick silver chain with a indicolite gem. I stared at him a moment before placing a hand on his cheek. "John, it's beautiful."

He took my hand and placed it around the wrist that held a much older bracelet. "Not as beautiful as you."

"What did I ever do to deserve you?"

"I ask myself that every second of the day," he responded, kissing my lips. "Supper, tonight?"

"I was hoping to dine with Martha but… I suppose she'll understand."

"No, no. Go with Martha."

"Perhaps we could walk through town after your classes?"

"Of course. I'll come for you immediately." I smiled and kissed his cheek, pushing him to the door as I did so. Pulling me with him, John placed a gentle kiss on my lips and left. With his departure, I returned to our room and laid on the bed. I'd had another nightmare and the more time passed, the less sleep I was getting. There were some times in which I envied John's ability to only have the good dreams, to never be plagued with the nightmares I experienced. As I laid there, I soon felt sleep take me.

"Cerys. Wake up, my dear." I turned over, hearing a chuckle. "If you don't awaken we won't make it to the village." I sighed and sat up, pulling a face. "You are far too stunning for such an expression."

"I was having the most horrendous dream. One of the impossible ones. We were travelling and we landed somewhere with this creature, it said Rose and I were going to die."

"It was just a nightmare. You're alive and well."

I pulled John to me, causing him to fall atop me. Understanding what I wanted, he rolled onto his side and held me close, stroking my hair. "But what of when my time comes? It felt so real, John." I nestled closer to him.

"If you are to die, I would quickly follow suit. I cannot live without you."

I placed a hand on his cheek. "You do say the sweetest things, John."

He smiled and kissed my lips. John, then stood and held his hand out for me. "All for you. Now, the village?" I took his outstretched hand and stood. Nodding, I fixed up my hair, which he promptly took down from its bun. He always did love it down. I chuckled, and decided to keep it down for his sake. I kissed his cheek and turned away, only to be pulled back and firmly kissed. My thoughts went to the previous night as he pulled me back down to the bed, his figure hovering over me, covering me like a blanket. He moved his lips from mine and made his way down my neck, undoing the top of my dress as he did so. I sighed, enjoying the feel of his lips on my body. I tugged at his jacket and taking the hint, he swiftly pulled it off and continued his assault. Grabbing his shirt, I pulled him back towards me, our lips meeting again. Before it could go too far, I pushed John away, reminding him of our trip to the village. Groaning, he stood and straightened out his clothing and place his jacket back on. Pulling me to my feet, he helped tie up the top for me. Thanking him with a kiss, I took his arm, and the two of us exited the room and made our way off the premises.

As we walked through the village, we spotted Nurse Redfern. She seemed so lonely as she walked through the streets, a basket of groceries. Nurse Redfern also seemed to be in deep thought as well, a slight from on her lips. Although she was not in my good graces, I hated to see her alone and with such an expression. With a slight glance at John, I decided to call her over to us. The woman seemed to be startled at first but she joined us with a gracious, if not nervous smile. I greeted her and asked of her day, trying to be a courteous as possible. Then again, I was a bit curious about her, even if she had found herself enthralled with John. Soon however, the conversation turned to her husband, after John had informed me of what had happened on the shooting field. I frowned, hating that he taught the boys how to fight. Young men were meant to enjoy their youth, not spend their days learning how to shoot guns. And he himself was never a fighter, not in the physical sense at least, having remained in school to avoid going to war, to avoid leaving me. I couldn't begin to understand just how the Matron felt, losing her husband.

"His name was Oliver. He died in the battle of Spion Kop. We were childhood sweethearts." She sighed. "But you see, I was angry with the army for such a long time."

"If I might say," I started cautiously, "you still seem to be." The woman gave me a slight nod.

"I find myself as part of that school, watching boys learn how to kill."

"Don't you think discipline is good for them?"

"Does it have to be such military discipline? I mean, if there's another war those boys won't find it so amusing."

"Well… Great Britain is at peace, long may it reign."

"In your journal, in one of your stories, you wrote about next year, nineteen fourteen."

"That was just a dream."

"All those images of mud and wire. You told of a shadow, a shadow falling across the entire world."

"Well then, we can be thankful it's not true. And I'll- I'll admit mankind doesn't need warfare and bloodshed to prove itself. Everyday life can provide honour and valour- and let's hope that from now on this- this country can find its heroes in smaller places…" I nodded, noticing two men struggling with a piano as it dangled from a frayed rope and a woman with a perambulator walking towards it. "In the most…" John had noticed it as well. Removing my hand from his arm, I ran to the woman, seeing a ball whizz past me, hitting something as I ran in front of her, stopping the woman in her tracks just as the piano crashed behind me. "Cerys!"

"Are you alright? How's the little one?"

I glanced at the woman, seeing her check on her child who was crying. "We're fine. The baby's fine. Thank you."

I nodded, glad that I had been able to keep them from getting hurt. I then felt arms wrap around my waist. Turning I saw John, clutching me to him, with Nurse Redfern standing by. "I'm fine, John."

"Don't you do that again. I almost lost you."

"John, there's no harm. I'm fine." I placed a hand on his cheek and stared into his eyes, knowing that was always the best way to comfort him, that it always calmed him when he was frantic. "Not a scratch. I'm sorry I scared you. Did you throw that ball?"

"Yes. It was just luck."

"That was luck?" Redfern asked, bewildered. She had joined our side a moment ago, giving me a once over to see if I was actually hurt.

John nodded, his attention on me. "Might I invite you to the village dance this evening?"

"As if you had to ask, John." He smiled and kissed my cheek. Taking my hand, the three of us made our way back to the school.

As we walked along a cart track in the field, we came upon a scarecrow. I frowned, not particularly liking it. It wasn't fear but a feeling that something was going to happen, something that involved the scarecrow. It made me more uncomfortable than I wanted to realise and it affected me greatly. I noticed Matron and John carried the conversation, with me making small comments when asked questions. I couldn't shake the feeling and in the end, it didn't matter; I wanted to be nowhere near it.

"Oh, it's all becoming clear now. The Doctor is the man you'd like to be, doing impossible things with cricket balls. And the Rys woman goes about saving those who were intended to die, someone you wish to be."

"Well, I discovered a talent. That's certainly true."

"I suppose but she's far more amazing than I."

"But the Doctor has an eye for the ladies."

"The devil."

"A girl at every fireplace."

"Ah, now, there I have to protest, Joan. That is hardly me. There is only one woman for me, always has been, since we were children."

"Yes, you will be dancing with her tonight." Joan then turned to me. "Misses Smith, are you alright? You've been staring at that scarecrow for a while."

"Cerys," I corrected before I turned to face her. "Um… yes, I'm fine."

"That scarecrow's all askew," John said as he pulled me over to it, releasing my hand for a moment to fix it before he took my hand again.

"Ever the artists. Where did you learn to draw?"

"Gallifrey," we both answered.

"Is that in Ireland?"

I shrugged. "Must be."

"But neither of you are Irish?"

"Not at all, no. My father Sidney was a watchmaker from Nottingham, and my mother Verity was- er. Well, she was a scholar in her own right. Cerys' father was a printmaker, and her mother was a nurse, actually."

"Oh. We make such good wives."

John glanced around, nervously might I add. I could feel just how uncomfortable he was with her comment. He rubbed the back of his neck, an obvious indicator of his current emotion. "Really? Right. Yes. Well, my work is done." He stepped back from the scarecrow and held out his arms for us to see his handy work. "What do you think?"

"Masterpiece."

"All sorts of skills today!" I chuckled and kissed his cheek, pulling him pass the scarecrow. It still bothered me, sending a shiver down my spine and the sooner we moved away from it the better I'd feel.

Reaching the school, Nurse Redfern, or Joan as she asked me to call her, separated from John and I. Instead of returning to our room, we opted for his study, where he had me sit on the settee as he made another sketch of me. John had been working on it for quite some time and I was, as usual, eager to see it. He was always wonderful at drawing. "May I please see it?" He moved over to me, placing a hand on mine as he showed me what he had drawn. The woman on the paper was gorgeous and in my opinion, looked nothing like me. It seemed as if it was someone he wished I looked like, someone completely different than who I was. Yet as the thought entered my mind, it quickly went away, knowing that John would think nothing of the sort. That he loved me no matter what. "Do I truly look like that?"

"Do you like it?"

"You've made me too striking."

"Well, that's how I see you, how I've always seen you."

"You are far too sweet," I whispered as he pushed a stray strand of hair from my face, kissing me. As it deepened, the door slammed open and revealed Martha. She stared at us, her eyes wide in embarrassment.

"Martha, what have I told you about entering unannounced?"

"Sorry," she said as she ran out. I nudged John, upset with how he'd spoken to her. She wasn't at fault, the look on her face told me something was wrong. Getting to my feet, I rushed out the room, going after her. When I couldn't find her, I returned to the study. John stood by the window, looking out at the evening sky.

"You didn't have to speak to her in that tone," I said, my arms crossed as I eyed him, not angrily but slightly disappointed.

John faced me, his expression blank. He knew from my tone that I was irritated with his behaviour. While he didn't snap at people often, he usually had better reasons to do so, and he'd never done so at Martha. While I understood why he did it, I didn't condone it. "She's done it quite too many times."

"Yes, and there has always been reason to that. She has entered unannounced on more than one occasion but she has seen far worse than a kiss in our case."

"But…"

"I understand why you may be upset, but you must understand that she was worried." I sighed, placing my hand on his cheek. "Next we see her, please apologise." He nodded. Satisfied, I took his hand and led him to our room. We still had the dance to get ready for and I was looking quite forward to it.

Finally dressed, I returned to the study where John took to waiting. He insisted he wait for me to finish before laying eyes on me, claiming he wanted it to be a surprise for him. Closing the door behind me, I stood before him and twirled, showing off my dress. I had bought it a few days earlier from a local dressmaker, having seen it and wanting it immediately. It was a dark green, like the forest, with a black corset bodice that emphasised my figure wonderfully. I had curled and pinned my lilac hair, leaving some in the back down as well as a bit in the front. I wanted it to look put together while being a bit messy as well. It was a style most women found unruly but I loved it, it made a statement and broke the usual norms. I didn't want to conform to societies norms. "So, what do you think?"

"You look… wonderful." He came over and pulled me to him in an embrace. "Beautiful. Ravishing. Enchanting."

I chuckled, kissing his cheek. "Thank you, Mister Smith. You look quite dapper yourself." He smiled, kissing my lips. "Now tell me, is your dancing still as bad as it was on our wedding day?"

"I'm not certain, Missis Smith." I smiled and pulled from him and moved to the sofa.

"Well, I do love a surprise and you, my love, are full of them."

"As are you," he replied as he sat, grabbed my waist and pulled me to him. As our lips met, Martha burst through the door, breathless as if she'd run the way to our room. I looked up at her, startled, mostly due to her frantic expression. It was quite obvious something had startled her and she needed our help.

I pulled away from John, hearing a deep growl as I did so. It wasn't the first time I'd heard that and I knew it wouldn't be the last. He was irritated that we had been interrupted again, but he knew better than to say anything. She was frightened and he wasn't about to say anything against her that would anger me, knowing just how bad I could get angry. Moving to Martha's side, I placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her. "Martha, are you all right? What's happened?"

"They've found us."

"Who?"

"They've found us, and I've seen them. They look like people, like us, like normal. I'm sorry, but you've got to open the watch. Where is it?" She pulled from my grasp and ran up to the mantelpiece, desperately searching for John's pocket watch. "Oh my God. Where's it gone? Where's the watch?" She turned to me. "Cerys, your bracelet. You have to press the button. You have to open it."

"What are you talking about?"

"You had a watch. A fob watch, right there."

"Did I? I don't remember."

"You did, John. There was one sitting there."

"But we need it. Oh, my God, Doctor, we're hiding from aliens, and they've got Jenny, and they've possessed her or copied her or… something, and you've got to tell me- where's the watch?"

"Oh, I see. Cultural differences. It must be so confusing for you. Martha, this is what we call a story."

I slapped his arm. "Stop it."

"Oh you complete- This is not you. This is nineteen thirteen."

"Good. This is nineteen thirteen."

I slapped him again. "Stop being so condescending. Martha is quite brilliant."

"Thank you, Cerys. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry, but I've got to snap you out of this." I watched her, my eyes widening as she slapped him. "Wake up! You're coming back to the Tardis with me, the both of you."

"How dare, how dare you. I'm not going anywhere with an insane servant. Martha, you are dismissed. You will leave these premises immediately. Now, get out!" He yelled, pushing her out of the room.

"John! She is not yours to dismiss," I snapped before walking out to the corridor where I found her standing, huffing as she tried to regulate her breathing. Her expression was downcast as she stood there. She didn't seem to notice my presence at all, too wrapped up her own thoughts. "Martha…" I placed a hand on her shoulder, snapping her from her thoughts.

"Thank you. It's funny. When we first met, I never thought you'd be defending me."

I smiled at her. It was quite odd to hear that, considering I'd liked and enjoyed her presence from the moment I'd met her. I would defend her through whatever was thrown our way. She wasn't a servant or someone to look down upon, but a friend, a confidant. She knew my greatest secrets and desires. Martha was there for John and I's wedding and I trusted her with my life. "Tell me, what's happened?"

"They found us. Your dreams, they aren't dreams at all. You made yourselves human to hide from them. It's only been two months though, but they found us. His watch, someone took it. I have to find it. If they get it, the world will end."

"So… he's the Doctor, not John Smith."

"Yes!" she cried happily. "And you're Rys."

"Everything we've been, has it all been…" I stopped, not wanting to say it out loud but knowing I needed to, "…a lie?"

"No. Your life in nineteen thirteen is a lie but yourlove… that's real. You're still married and so in love. Please, Cerys… tell me you believe me?"

"I cannot say I fully believe you," I started, seeing her hopeful expression fall, "but, it is plausible. If we truly are hiding, the Doctor and Rys must have trusted you so very much." I removed my hand from her shoulder and smiled at her. What she said could be true, and the cause of all my nightmares. Yet, some part of me didn't want it to be real, I wanted this life, with John. I wanted to expand our family, have children and grow old with him. If what John and I dreamt was who we really were, then there was no way we could have the life I wanted, the life John wanted. I didn't want to accept that but if it was true, I knew I needed to. "Martha, do as they told you. I will try to help John understand." She nodded and ran off, leaving me to deal with my husband.

Walking into the room, I saw John standing in the same spot I'd left him. He was abashed, from the red that covered his ears. He knew he had no right to do and say what he did, even if he knew I'd understand his reason. "I'm sorry."

"It's quite all right."

"No. I shouldn't have spoken to her in such a manner. I'll apologise when we next see her."

"John… please, do not worry of it. Tonight is meant to be fun. Let it be."

"Cerys?" I glanced at him, not expecting him to cup my cheeks and ferociously kiss my lips. "I did not mean for you to become so cross. It seems I can't get enough of you and when I do have you alone, we are always interrupted. Is it a crime to want you to myself? That I just want to be your husband?"

"No," I whispered, understanding his point, what he wanted. "But Martha is not just a servant but my friend. She was worried about us and I believe she would not have slapped you if you had only you listened to her. What if it's not a story? John, we've both had those dreams, the ones where we were hiding. What if this is the dream and we are merely going through it until we awaken?"

"As long as you are my wife, it does not matter whether this is a dream. It is improbable this is though."

"I do not think so," I sighed before taking his hand and leading him outside.

The night was clear and cool as we strolled to the village hall. We were both silent the first few minutes of the walk, caught in our own thoughts as I thought of what Martha had told me. However, after a while, we were acting like teenagers experiencing their first love. Kisses were shared, as well as the quick fondle. There was so much love between us, so much that made our love strong. Yes, we had our arguments but we never let them fester. We spoke about our problems, we tried to rectify them, come up with a solution and change whatever was the cause. Our bond was strong, and we knew the other just as well as we knew ourselves. We were soul mates, legendary lovers that were meant to be together. It was us against the world, together or not at all. As we reached the hall, I took his arm, still giggling from the kiss we'd shared not a minute before. An older man held a bucket out to John as we approached him. "Spare a penny for the veterans of the Crimea, sir?"

"Yes, of course. There you are," he said as he tossed in a few coins. The man thanked us, tipping his hat in gratitude as we walked past him. Inside, John and I sat at a nearby table, watching everyone as they mingled. While I knew most of them, I was never one to speak with those I felt no connection with. I wasn't one for appearances and it had been the town gossip when we'd first arrived. Changing my thoughts, my attention, however, was drawn to a young girl with a red balloon sitting alone. The more I examined her, the more I realised that something about her felt off, almost the exact feeling I had when we'd encountered the scarecrow. I couldn't help but feel as if she were a part of whatever was to come and whatever that was, it wouldn't end well for John and me.

"Ladies and gentlemen. Please take your partners for a waltz," Chambers said as the band started to play. John held out his hand for me. Taking it, I stood and we found a spot on the dance floor. We skilfully danced, much to my surprise. John had gotten better, not that I would have been disappointed if he hadn't. Yet, it was nice to see that he had.

"So, you have improved."

"So it seems. It would be a shame to disappoint such a beautiful woman as yourself," he smiled, just before bumping into another couple. "Sorry."

"You could never truly disappoint me, John. You make me happy, even with your faults. I feel so lucky to have you."

"I feel it is I who is lucky. You could have any man of your choosing and you chose me."

"Just as you any woman but you chose me."

"And that makes me the happiest man alive."

After a few dances, all without much incident, John had gone to fetch refreshments while I sat with Joan. Despite our tumultuous relationship, I did hate to see her sitting alone. As we sat together, we spoke of a variety of things, all light-hearted and of little importance. We weren't close enough to discuss anything of much importance or seriousness. Suddenly, I saw another body sit beside me. Looking, I saw it was Martha. She gave me a terse smile as she did so.

"Cerys. Nurse Redfern."

Just from her greeting, I could tell there was still something wrong, something was still bothering her. I couldn't help but feel it was about what had happened earlier in the day. "Martha, is everything alright?"

"No. Actually, I'm here to speak with the Matron."

"Would you like for me to leave?"

"No! I just meant…"

"I know," I chuckled. "Go on then."

She immediately turned to the Matron. "They're different from anyone you've ever met, right?"

"Yes."

"Are you sure I should stay?" As I began to stand, Martha grabbed my hand, patting it reassuringly.

"And sometimes they say these strange things, like people and places you've never heard of, yeah? But it's deeper than that. Sometimes when you look in their eyes you know, you just know that there's something else in there, something hidden. Right behind the eyes, something hidden away, in the dark."

"I don't know what you mean," Joan said, shooting me a haste glance before quickly looking away.

"Yes, you do. I don't mean to be rude… but the awful thing is it doesn't even matter what you think." I glanced at her, a bit shocked by her words. While she'd always been outspoken, she'd never been rude, at least, not outwardly. We had spent many nights gossiping amongst ourselves and making such comments about others, she was not one to say something of the sort outside of our privacy. "But you're nice enough." She then turned towards me. "And I just wanted to say sorry for what I'm about to do." I glanced at her, confused by her words. Glancing behind me, I noticed that John had arrived at the table, drinks in hand.

"Martha, I wish to apologise for earlier. It wasn't my place."

"It's fine." Martha then fished into her pocket and pulled out a mall cylinder object, with a blue tip, and held it out in front of John and me. "Do you know what this is? Name it. Go on, name it."

"John, Cerys, what is that silly little thing?" We ignored Joan as she continued to call our names, John taking the small device in his hands. As he examined it, I did as well, feeling as if I should know what it was.

"You're not John and Cerys Smith. You're called the Doctor and she's Rys. The man and woman in your journal, they're real. They're you."

I met her gaze and grabbed John's hand, not sure what to say. Yet, before we could reply, three more people entered the hall, two being people I knew, Jenny and Baines. The clattering of the coat hanger hitting the ground brought everyone's attention to them. The band had ceased playing and in the end, we were all staring at the three. "There… will... be… silence! All of you!" John grabbed my arm, pulling me behind him as scarecrows entered behind the trio. "I said silence!"

"Mister Clark! What's going on?" Without a word, Clark turned on the man and shot him, turning the proprietor to dust. The other guests gasped in shock and terror, Joan being one of them. Some moved to rush to the door, only to stop when the guns turned to them.

"Mister and Missus Smith? Everything I told you, just forget it. Don't say anything."

"We asked for silence!" The hall quieted instantly. "Now then, we have a few questions for Mister Smith."

"No, better than that," the girl I had been wary about said, walking to the trio. "The teacher- he's the Doctor." She pointed to John. "I heard them talking."

"You took human form."

"Of course I'm human. I was born human, as were you, Baines. And Jenny, and you, Mister Clark. What is going on? This is madness!"

"Ooo, and a human brain, too- simple, thick, and dull."

I stepped from behind John, frowning. "Who exactly are you calling simple, thick, and dull? I can assure you, he is not."

"Such fire in her."

"She's a Time Lord too."

"But she has also taken human form. We need a Time Lord."

"Easily done." Baines stepped forward, pointing his gun and John. The crowd gasped and took a step back and away from the scene before them. "Change back."

John took a step forward, shielding me. "I don't know what you're talking about.".

"Change back!"

"I- I literally do not know!" Jenny growls and grabbed Martha, putting the gun to her head once she was held securely between us.

"Get off me!" I moved to forward to help her but John had grabbed hold of my arm before I had made it too far past him. He then pulled me back, keeping a strong hold on me.

"She's your friend, isn't she? Doesn't this scare you enough to change back?"

"I don't know what you mean!"

"Wait a minute. The maid told me about her," Jenny vocalised as she motioned her fun to me. "She's his wife." I instantly felt John's grip tighten. He was nervous, scared and confused and to make matters worse, I was there with him, I was being threatened.

"Then let's have you," Clark said as he ripped me from John's grasp and put his gun to my head. I held my head high, not daring to show just how frightened I was. I was terrified this would be my last few moment with John, my last moments alive and that frightened me more than anything else. I wasn't ready to go. I wasn't ready to leave him behind. I knew John could see it underneath the defiance but I didn't want them to know. "Still such fire in her, even with a gun to her head."

"Have you enjoyed it, Doctor, being human? Has it taught you wonderful things? Are you better, richer, wiser? Then let's see you answer this- which one of them do you want us to kill? Maid or businesswoman? Your friend or your wife? Your choice."

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3/12/14

Yay, another chapter and it's almost 10,000 words! Total word count came to 9,961, which is 3000+ words more than it was at first. And I was able to do it all before doing my final two projects due it 3 hours. Honestly, it's like a 250 word paper (easy) and a 8-10 slide presentation. Easy stuff. I took my history final as well and I freaked out and stressed for literally no reason. It was literally about WW1, 2, and the Cold War, all topics I find interesting. Seriously, if I'm not on BBC, my telly's on the History channel or the American Hero Channel (all wars and stuff). I do have another paper to write but that's due Saturday night and then I just have one last final next Thursday, and then I can update a lot more than once a week. Don't hold me to that though. I tend to flake a lot.

Now, anyways, what did you guys think of the chapter? Of John and Cerys? Aren't they just adorable? Since I love fluff so much, I just had to take this opportunity to fluff it up 10x as much as I usually do. And what of Cerys and Martha's relationship? As I wrote the beginning, I couldn't help but feel bad for Martha and what she had to witness each time she entered the room Cerys and John occupied. Hope you were able to catch the little bits of information about the two's past and relationship. It's not all just coming from Cerys and John, you know. Hope you guys liked how I portrayed Joan. I really wasn't trying to write her as a bad character or OOC. But let me know if you think I did.

With all that said, please don't forget to vote. Alrighty then, onto the reviews. Thanks to everyone who read, favourited, followed, and reviews. Made my day(s).

NicoleR85: Glad you enjoyed it. Hope you liked this one.

Jasmine- The True Believer: Haha, definitely wanted that response. That's how their relationship always was, minus those moments on Gallifrey and when they were apart and such. What did you think of this one?

Squidtastik:Lolz. Yeah, Martha's a riot. I really wanted 42 to be the one where she found out the extent of Rys and the Doctor's relationship since this was one of those episodes where their strength and trust in each other was needed. Glad it came out alright.

Takara Matsudaira: Lolz, I feel the same way about the one I'm reading that's still in progress. It's currently 109 chapters long and while I was only on chapter 88 when I last read it, weeks ago, I think I'm going to reread it since it was so good. Wow, hope you were able to finish everything on time. That's basically all mine today. Of course not. Reading is a stress reliever.

Hopefully you can get your inspiration back soon. Honestly, you sound like my friend Nat in the inspiration department. She's trying to get back into the whole writing thing and was having a hard time with some things. But doing a one-shot might probably get the juices flowing. I started to read it actually, before I went to class this morning, only getting a few sentences since I was late, and what I read was awesome. I'll leave an actual review on it before the end of the night though.

margie-me:Yay, so glad you loved it. Haha, I actually learned that some published authors actually started out with fanfiction. Thanks so much. I really appreciate it. As for Rys' background, it will definitely be brought up. I'm still deciding which chapter to put it in. But, it will be answered before we get to 11, I will promise you that. Hope you enjoyed this chapter.

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Oh, and I will be editing all the previous chapters a bit. I know you won't go back and read them but I just wanted to give a bit of a heads up.