A/N This is a re-post of Chapter 17, modified slightly from the original one I posted. I just wanted to include a bit about Charles, a young Lady Mary, a sixpence, and a kiss. I forgot it the first time, so I went back and added it. Thanks for reviewing! Your comments keep me going!

Chapter 17

Charles was in a hurry; Elsie was right. He had spent twenty years wishing that he could tell her how he felt, hoping that she felt the same way, and fearing that pursuing her would ruin their friendship. Now that he had confessed his love and been assured that his feelings were reciprocated, he didn't want to wait another minute. Thankfully, Elsie was just as keen. He concentrated on the steps he needed to take to make her his wife and set about achieving that aim posthaste. With singleness of purpose, he set out to locate Lady Mary and found her in the library. Fortunately, she was alone.

"M'Lady, may I have a word?" Charles asked.

"Of course, Carson. What is it? You certainly seem in better spirits than you were earlier. I trust that you and Mrs. Hughes have reached an understanding, and all is well?" Lady Mary inquired.

"Yes, M'Lady, we have come to an understanding, and all is very well, indeed. Actually, I came to thank you for your earlier advice and encouragement. I did exactly as you suggested and informed Mrs. Hughes of my affections. Happily, my sentiments are requited. In fact, we are to be married as soon as we are able. We intend to speak to Her Ladyship and His Lordship at once and to see Mr. Travis this afternoon, but I feel I should apprise you first. You've been extremely supportive, and I want to express my gratitude," he said.

"Oh, Carson!" cried Lady Mary. She stood and embraced him, saying, "I'm so very happy for you! That's wonderful news!"

"Thank you. Your good wishes are most welcome. I only regret the timing, with the house so recently coming out of mourning …" said Charles, apologetically.

"Nonsense!" she insisted. "We need some good news, and this is just the thing. Oh, Mama and the girls will be so excited! They'll also be insufferable after having been proven right about their suspicions. But don't worry. Papa and Granny and I will handle them."

"I've no doubt you will," he replied, thinking what a formidable trio the Dowager, the Earl, and his eldest daughter could be.

Lady Mary paused for a moment before continuing gravely, "I must admit, Carson, that as happy as I am for you, I am terribly jealous of Mrs. Hughes. I've been rather used to having you all to myself – being your favorite and enjoying all your attentions. And now I shall have to share you. Do promise you won't abandon me completely."

"I would never, M'Lady! Never think such a thing!" Charles gasped, appalled at the very notion.

"Good. I'm very glad to hear it. You're a true gem, Carson," she told him, favoring him with a dainty kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you, M'Lady. That is most kind," he responded, his face flushing fiercely. "I suppose I owe you a sixpence now, to spend in the village," he said with a fond smile, recalling the time he had convinced a young Lady Mary Crawley not to run away from home.

"No, Carson, this kiss was free. I'm not running away any more. Give the sixpence to Mrs. Hughes – for her shoe. She truly is a lucky woman, and you may tell her I said so. And if she ever treats you poorly, I shall have her sacked immediately!" quipped Lady Mary.

"I can assure you that won't be necessary," Charles told her.

"I'm sure it won't," she agreed. "Now, as much as I'd like to keep you all to myself, I'm guessing that a certain housekeeper is waiting for you to collect her to speak with Mama and Papa. Am I correct?"

"You are, indeed," he confirmed.

"Well, then, I shall release you into her custody – reluctantly. And until I see her myself, please assure Mrs. Hughes of my warmest wishes," offered Lady Mary most sincerely.

"I shall, M'Lady. Thank you very much," said Charles. And with that, he set off to find his betrothed.