Chapter Twelve

Phryne had not particular regard for men with facial hair, but somehow feeling Jack's stubble against her neck in the morning was quite erotic. Especially if the stubble was accompanied by his lips, moving from the back of her ear, lower and lower against her neck and then to her shoulder…

"Ah, cheri, you are taking quite a few liberties."

"You want me to stop?"

"Do not even think about it, Jack! Though I do like to receive a proper good morning kiss from now on." Phryne turned around to face her husband and Jack knew his game was up. "Do not look so ashamed, Jack. Stealing a peck on the neck is not like you were… forcing anything on me. Now… Kiss me properly and take as many liberties as you want," she whispered huskily, feeling that Jack was definitely up to some morning fun. "How much time do we have?"

"…Half an hour?"

"Quite enough."

….

Phryne was looking at another new addition to the former Fisher household that came after Jack moved in. Against one of the shelves was nailed a calendar. Not that there was no calendar in the house, but that one depicted Jack's shifts, and Hugh shifts and Dot's days off that coincided with Hugh's. Phryne diligently circled Jack's days off with a red pen while she was waiting for him to come down to breakfast. She had to just thrown on a robe while Jack had to complete his morning routine and dress properly.

Phryne recalled their morning encounter just moments before… She loved how Jack acted upon her words just the night before and was thrilled about him becoming bolder with each time. As if freeing a beast that was kept on a leash for a long time. And she will wait for him to be completely free from all restrains. The mere thought of what it could be like… The passion of Jack's kisses and caresses without him holding back because of propriety or pregnancy or his own shyness or modesty…

"Are you alright, ma'am? You look flushed."

Good old Dot. She would be scandalized if she knew what images were flashing in front of her mistress's eyes. "No, Dot, everything is fine. I was just thinking…" Thinking about how much changed since the wedding. She was addressed as ma'am now in accordance with her marital status. Mr. Butler responded with "The Robinsons' residence" while answering the phone. She took off her engagement and wedding rings only while washing or bathing and never put any other rings on that finger. She made plans according to Jack's days off and not when a fancy stroked her. She followed the healthy diet Mac prescribed her without question. But with all the restrictions and schedules Phryne did not feel trapped. Which was a great surprise to her. Her life was dissolving into others' and she did not mind at all.

Dorothy watched her mistress as she sat down behind the kitchen table and looked through the newspaper. She watched as Mr. Robinson entered the kitchen and sat opposite her but not before his hand passed across his wife's shoulders. Dot exchanged glances with Mr. Butler. The gestures, the wordless exchanges, the smiles, rather flirty ones… Something was going on with their masters. Something very good.

…..

"Are you all packed, Jane?"

"Yes, Jack. Can I talk to you? In private?"

"Of course. Let us go to my study."

Jack's relationship with Jane was somewhat strangled since her arrival from Europe. She was a young woman now, intelligent enough to have her own opinions and make her own choices. Jane did not express any protest to his and Phryne's marriage, she fully supported it. Still Jack felt like he was intruding on Jane and Phryne's time together as a family, moreover he could not have any right to act as a father figure to Jane since she was a grownup. They conversed in a neutral manner, but such times were rare due to Jack's work hours. Thus he was surprised and confused about Jane's wish to talk to him privately.

"I want to ask for your advice, Jack," Jane began, when they settled in Jack's study.

"Go on."

"I do not want to enter university to become a doctor anymore."

"Why? Have you decided on another profession?"

"No… My dream was to enter Oxford, one of the finest institutions. During one of the school breaks we had a field trip to London and Oxford, and we had a tour of the grounds. I instantly fell in love with the campus and the buildings… But not the students. All my life I struggled for survival. First on the streets, then in the school where I was bullied for being abandoned by my real mother, being not 'one of them' – the high-class girls. But I fought and I prevailed. But when I saw those boys at Oxford, looking at me like I was some… scum for not being a commoner with no blue blood, but for simply being a girl… Just thinking about how much I must fight to be accepted into the university and then continue to struggle every single day to be treated if not as an equal but at least not as an empty space… And I cannot do it anymore, Jack. And it is not only Oxford, all universities are like that, even if on the outside they say that they encourage women to enter, on the inside they eat them alive, shoving them down for them to see the place they are only worth of – as dutiful wives and mothers and nothing more!"

"Then do not go, nobody is making you. It is your choice."

"But I do not want Phryne to be disappointed in me! She did so much for me. Gave a roof to sleep under, provided me with the opportunity to receive education. What will she think of me if I give up now?"

"She will not think any less of you, of that I am sure. I understand your worries that are, unfortunately, justified. The current disposition to women in the academia is what it is, but it does not mean you must give up on your dream. You can participate in studies for nurses until you decide to become a doctor or not. Clearly, such practical experience would be judged as favorable during your entrance exams."

"Thank you, Jack! This is a wonderful solution! And this way I will have time to care for the baby too!"

"Ah, yes. We will need all the help we can get, I am afraid. On the other hand, can I ask you a personal question, Jane?"

"Of course."

"With your readiness to help with the baby… Have you thought about having your own family one day?"

"Yes, I have. I mean, I do not share Phryne's opinion about never marrying or committing to one man, if this is what you are asking. Last year, there was a rowing competition taking place near my school. All girls from my class sneaked out to watch. Obviously, they were not interested in rowing, but in the university boys. My classmates got in all kinds of trouble with them. I never went."

"That was a wise decision."

"I was teased mercilessly for it. The girls even said that I am not going because I am not interested in boys at all. I would have agreed if it had helped, but I knew that then the teasing would be even more brutal. I did not go because I know men. I mean, not that I… I am still… Oh, God, this is embarrassing. I mean, I did not grow up like those rich girls in the manors that are like greenhouses with no troubles. They wanted to get into trouble, to break the rules, to go on an adventure. I have had adventure in abundance and it is not worth the pain. I never knew my father. I know, how men can be, how they can hurt women physically and mentally. But I also know there are good men out there. Men that are loving and caring and are good husbands and fathers. And if I am lucky to meet such a man one day…"

"Your worries are unfounded. I am sure that Phryne will not be disappointed. Frankly, I think she was afraid you will not return home, but stay in Europe. As for the matter of your husband… I do not have any say in it, but I advise you not to choose someone of a dangerous profession."

"Like a policeman?"

"Yes."

"But there are such fine men in the police force, Jack! And what do you mean, you have no say?! You are the one who is going to give me away, are you not?"

"Well, I…" The thought of such a role being given to him in the future has never crossed Jack's mind. Did it mean, that Jane thought of him as part of the family now? That she fully accepted him?

"I wonder what we are going to do at Mrs. Stanley's for the whole three months. I do understand that it is safer for Phryne to live there for the last term, but I have no idea how we are going to entertain themselves in that large house. Phryne promised me to teach me how to drive, but that is out of the question now."

"It is not that impossible. I can teach you during my visits."

"Are you sure you want to waste your precious free time with me instead of spending it with Phryne?"

That little devil! Jack actually felt his cheeks heating up. With Phryne being seven months pregnant any bed activities were forbidden as per Dr. Macmillan's orders. One of the reasons for Phryne to move to her aunt's was to minimize the risk of said activities occurring. Jack could easily hold himself in check; Phryne though, was another story. Jack was astounded at how much she touched him. Small, almost meaningless touches during meals or rest in the parlor or during preparations for bed. It was as if she was checking if he was there. Jack did not know if it was still from the scare of him dying or something else, but most definitely did not mind being touched in such a manner. And he will definitely miss that while Phryne is away.

…..

"My goodness, Phryne!"

Prudence Stanley was utterly scandalized, on the brink of apoplexy. Her niece was standing in the middle of the entrance hall kissing a man. Moreover, kissing in a way that must be done only behind closed doors, closed and locked doors.

"I am sorry, Mrs. Stanley for arriving without notice, I-"

"Stop apologizing, Jack. You are family, you can visit whenever you like. You are staying for the gala, right? Let us bring your things to my room and go for a drive, I really want to-"

"Your room, Phryne?"

"Oh, for God's sake, Aunt P! We are married, Jack is the father of my child. We have all the right to share a room!"

Both women turned around in a huff and started walking into opposite directions. Jack hurried after Phryne to his car.

"It was the first time you said it."

"What, Jack?"

"That I am the father of your child."

"Hm, I did say that. But you are the father, cheri."

"I do not object, I am just glad for you to think so too."

"Want to feel the baby move?"

"That will be my utmost pleasure."

…..

The gala that Phryne informed Jack about was one of Mrs. Stanley's annual charity events. The gala consisted of cocktails where the guests mingled, then an auction the proceedings from which went to organizing Christmas presents of children in orphanages. The auction was followed by dinner and entertainment in the form of dancing with music provided by the orchestra.

Despite her aunt's protests Phryne was planning to attend and appear on the arm of her husband which would make quite a stir among the crème of the Melbourne society. And stir they did the moment Phryne and her escort came through the door of the hall where the refreshments were served. First of all, because pregnant women did not attend events of such nature. One of the main reasons was that they did not have anything suitable to wear. Phryne had no such problems, she ordered the dress just for such an occasion with final stitches made when it was clear when she was putting it on. She was wearing a long velvet dress of deep burgundy accented by a ruby necklace and earrings. The dress by no means tried to hide the pregnancy, but the high waist allowed the heavy cloth to fall around the stomach so it was visible but not protruding. Secondly, who was the man beside her?

…...

"I see your footman is not beside you anymore?"

Phryne turned to the woman who posed a rather rude question. And she was considered unworthy of high society. "Lady Lawrence, how nice it is to see you after all this time." If the lady was not as foolish as she looked in her outdated outfit, then she would hear Phryne's sarcasm interlaced with every word of her polite address. "Have you been unwell?"

"No, I am perfectly fine. Not to say the same about you, my dear."

Phryne moved around on her chaise to take a more comfortable position. She certainly could not mingle around with guests due to not being able to remain upright for long periods of time. That was why Aunt Prudence placed a pleasant enough chaise into a corner with a small table for Phryne to keep her food on. Jack was the one who brought food and refreshments for her, also kept her company since he did not particular want to talk to people he knew but did not care about, they had too many secrets he did not want to delve into onto his day off. His wife was a much more pleasant company, especially while she quietly ridiculed the members of high society that were passing them.

"Oh, Lady Lawrence, I feel perfectly healthy. And he is not my footman, he is my husband."

"Your husband?!"

"Why so surprised? If I recall correctly you have two sons. Did your husband not wait on you while you were expecting?"

"No-o-o, I spent that time in the country house…"

"Good for you. Oh, Jack, here you are. Do I hear music in the other hall?"

"Yes, the auction is delayed so the musicians are entertaining the guests."

"You promised me at least one waltz, Jack."

"I did, but are you sure your feet will manage? I do not mind caring you around, but such behavior would be highly inappropriate under the circumstances."

"They certainly will."

Jack assisted Phryne with standing up and they headed towards the music, leaving the gaping Lady Lawrence in their wake.

….

"I am sure he married her for the money."

"Indeed, why else marry such a woman? She must have slept with half of Melbourne."

"And the baby? I doubt she herself knows whose it is."

"Well, she will tire of him sooner or later, I certainly do not mind of playing with that piece of candy for a bit."

"Hear, hear. Why does she always get the best men? What does she have that we do not? Uses some dirty tricks in bed?"

"That must be it. What else is there? Nothing. Just silks and a nice body."

"Well, not anymore. With her that huge no one will be tempted by her anymore."

"Including her dear husband."

Phryne grabbed Jack's arm to stop him from doing or saying anything rush. She was prepared for the gossip, for harsh remarks, but she knew Jack was not. And even if he was, his honorable soul would not allow his wife to be slandered so shamelessly.

"It is alright, Jack. They are just jealous. Their husbands are not tempted by them anymore either. They can only dream of what we have. Now look, is she not a beauty?"

"Phryne, what are you doing?"

"I am bidding, Jack. For your early Christmas present."

"You want to buy me a car?"

"I am telling you, he is with her only for the money."

"Well, it mostly for all of us. We need a family car now and Hispano has had one too many repairs. This one is powerful and safe. What is not to like?"

"But seriously, you cannot buy a car just looking at its picture. You need to test run it and check the engine-"

"I know all that, cheri. I will not pay until you and our favorite taxi drivers make sure that she is perfect inside and out. But I still want to make it your present. I never manage to make you a right one. Remember, when I bought you cufflinks for your birthday? And you said you had nowhere to wear them to. And your gifts are always so thoughtful. I still do not know where you managed to get that silk scarf from, the quality and patterns are top class."

"I have my sources."

"Did you hear? She bought him cufflinks when they were not even courting. Outrageous!"

"There was no courting in the first place. It was a shotgun wedding. Obviously."

"She actually won the bidding on that car! How does a single woman have so much money?"

"She must not be just sleeping around, but collecting dues as well."

At that Jack did turn around to look at the gossiping women two rows back. He wanted to say some choice words disregarding the public setting, but was interrupted by a scream from the next room.

"Robbery! Thief! Thief is in the garden!"

"Gun, Phryne, quickly."

"What do you-"

"You always have your gun on you. Give it here."

"Guilty as charged," she said with a sigh, handling the small golden gun over to Jack, who expertly controlled if it was loaded, running through the panicked crowd of guests towards the French windows that opened into the garden.

The thief was no novice. The later investigation revealed that he arrived at the estate disguised as a servant and waited till the auction had ended. He previously changed into a dark outfit and grabbed the money before they were deposited into the safe. The dark clothes did not allow for him to be seen in the garden with no illumination, but the white soles of his shoes were visible enough for Jack to shoot him down with the fourth attempt.

"Why is our every social outing interrupted by a crime? At least this time it is not a murder."

Phryne managed to get to her husband since nobody wanted to stand near a shooting man in case the bullets went into the wrong direction. "Because, Jack, it is just what we do. Aunt P must be devastated. Oh, she is coming here with that determined look of hers. Please, Jack, just call the ambulance and one of your sergeants can process the scene. The thief was clearly caught red handed. Do not spoil our evening."

"I will need to make a statement. I did discharge a weapon."

"But the police can wait for that statement for at least until the day after tomorrow."

"Inspector! The most disgraceful business! I am sure this will be all over the papers tomorrow. The gala is ruined!"

"Have you called the police, Aunt P?"

"I… thought… the Inspector…"

"I am off duty, Mrs. Stanley. I understand you do not want publicity, but I am here only as your guest. It will be easier for all involved to call for the police officer to come, take the statements and remove the perpetrator from your premises."

The last argument won Prudence Stanley over and she rushed in a huff to call for the authorities. To appease the guests and to take their minds from the bygones the dinner was served early.