AN/
I dunno I was high, I wrote smut ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ enjoy.
/
"I don't know if I should go" Viola muttered to Tommy
"Why not? he's your family, your kin" Tommy replied, not understanding why it'd be so bad, so what if there was family drama? It was a funeral and everyone had a right to say goodbye.
"Because Papa is still furious and demanding that I stop rebelling against him, I don't want my cousin's funeral to revolve around me...it's distasteful" Viola told him.
Tommy rolled his eyes "if you want, I'll come with you and act as Gypsy as possible would that make you happy?"
"Its sweet that you're so willing to take the fall for me" Viola pressed a kiss against his cheek "But I want to say goodbye to Patrick and see how Edith is, poor dear will be heartbroken"
"I thought Mary was marrying Patrick?" Tommy asked with a frown
"Yes, but Edith loved Patrick, it's what led to the strife between those two" Viola informed him
"And why don't you two get on?" Tommy questioned
Viola sighed "Edith is a wonderful sister, when she tries but she sees slights in everything doesn't help that Mary is genuinely trying to upset her. Mary had Patrick but didn't want him Edith wanted Patrick but he didn't want her. It was a whole mess; I want Edith to be happy but she won't find it going against Mary. Mary can be...vicious, it'll be her downfall"
"Lords and Ladies making their life far more difficult than it needs to be" Tommy grunted
"You're the one who wants to join us on our pedestal" Viola snarked lightly and he nodded his agreement
"I do, with power, influence and wealth I can provide you with a good life, provide our children with a good life. Be untouchable, never have to worry about a thing" Tommy told her passionately.
Viola softened having heard her lover talking about how rough life had been for him growing up, he was a career criminal and Tommy was never going to change, Viola accepted that but he wanted something legit that supported them and their lifestyle so it wouldn't be torn away from them, a better life for their kids.
"You don't have to come but I would like it" Viola murmured to him "I'd like the support because I know how Papa will react but I feel..."
"Bad for asking me to play at being your shield?" Tommy asked before shaking his head "stailc tintreach I want to be your shield, your sword, your knight and king. I want to be your everything"
"You already are" Viola murmured to him pressing a kiss against his bare chest
"Good" Tommy said in satisfaction, smugness rolling off him
"There's going to be drama" Viola murmured "The Entail has always been a source of problem in my parent's marriage"
"Only a man can inherit and your Ma's money will go to a random stranger along with Downton" Tommy recalled
Viola nodded "Cora and Grandmama will want to change it so Mary can inherit it all but I fear it will not work as they wish"
Tommy hummed, he'd have to make sure something so ridiculous wasn't apart of their marriage "let's get some mourning clothes and then we'll head off to war, if you wish to leave, we will immediately"
/
They hadn't seen the Crawley family at the London memorial due to the crowd but the Downton one was far smaller and more intimate. Thankfully Mama had welcomed them, and Viola took her father stoically ignoring them, though he sent a vicious glare at Tommy who stared blankly back, having taken his role as shield quite well, always between her and the outside world. Viola sat herself by Edith who looked shocked but smiled when she took her hand and Tommy offered her a handkerchief.
He wanted more allies in the family after all. Plus crying women made him uncomfortable.
Viola ignored her father as he ignored her, more focused on speaking to George Murray, father's lawyer, Tommy placed a cigarette between his lips and began smoking as he strolled alongside Viola, hands in pockets and eyes sharp.
Edith was weeping into her handkerchief, and Viola stuck close to her older sister, concerned for her. She worried her lip wondering how she could help Edith in this difficult time.
"Really, Edith, do you have to put on such an exhibition?" Mary complained as she looked around bored with this whole song and dance.
"She's not." Sybil jumped to Edith's defence, always a soft heart.
"Leave her be Mary" Viola snapped out at her sister
"I was supposed to be engaged to him, for heaven's sake, not you, and I can control myself." Mary pointed out
Edith paused in her weeping to glare at Mary viciously "Then you should be ashamed."
"Edith loved Patrick" Viola told her sister firmly "she is heart broken and mourning, allow her to grieve"
"it's pathetic" Mary said in disdain
"You lost your chance at Downton Abbey; Edith lost her love. I know which is worse" Viola snapped back, Tommy drifted closer to Viola, shoulder brushing with hers in comfort.
"You'd know all about love with your Gypsy boy, wouldn't you?" Mary sniped "You bring him here, spitting on their memory, shaming the family and embarrassing Papa, what is wrong with you?"
"Nothing is wrong with me" Viola said tightly "I brought Tommy because I needed his support and being the wonderful man that he is, he came even though he knew he'd have to put up with snobbish elitists like you. No wonder you have no idea why Edith is so sad; you'd choose the lifestyle over love any day"
Mary shot her a hurt look but Viola couldn't bring herself to care, no one insulted her beloved. No one.
"Not so long ago this was your lifestyle to" Mary pointed out quietly "How can you turn you back on it? On us?"
"A lot has changed the past two years, especially my outlook and priorities, my Gypsy boy is my first priority now and for the rest of my life" Viola replied "I am happy and fulfilled. No amount of dresses, gems or pedigree will replace my beloved. I'm not turning my back; I'm opening my arms to a new future"
Mama was the one to meet them at the front door of Downton Abbey and she shot a smile and hopeful look at her and Tommy before focusing on Mr Murray.
"Mr Murray, how lovely to see you. Do come in." Cora invited the lawyer.
"Your very kind, Lady Grantham, but I must get back to London." Mr Murray demurred, not wanting to get caught in the drama.
"But you'll stay for luncheon?" Cora pressed him
Murray shook his head "Thank you, but no. I'll eat on the train. In fact, if you'd be so good as to ask for the motor to be brought 'round?"
"Mm." Robert said before glancing to Carson, who nodded
"But didn't you want the afternoon to talk things through?" Cora pressed
Murray glanced at the Lord Grantham before saying "I think we've said everything we have to say, haven't we, my lord?"
"Oh, for the time being, yes." Robert nodded his head "Thank you, Murray. You've given me a good deal to think about."
Murray turned and left as Mary moved towards the house, the others trailing after her.
"Mary, try to get everyone into the dining room. Edith, make sure old Lord Minturn sits down." Mama said before glancing at Viola "Darling girl, you'll stay, won't you?"
"It depends Mama, is Father going to be reasonable?" Viola asked shooting her father a cautious look
Robert winced at being referenced as 'Father' but spoke stiffly "We are here to mourn my cousins not bring further strife into the family, I will...ignore your rebellion but it is far from over"
"Of course," Viola smiled "seeing as how I'll be spending the rest of my life with Tommy, it's never going to end"
"We'll see" Robert muttered
"Lord Grantham" Tommy nodded his head
"Mr. Shelby" Robert replied before turning and walking off, unable to stomach seeing him salivating over his beloved fourth daughter. He was just a Gypsy! Just some social climber! That boy saw the money and status his darling girl could offer and he wanted that not her! He was just a wealth hunter! Why couldn't his daughter see? Why couldn't she fall in love with a Lord or someone of their status or even higher?!
Why must it have been some river Gypsy, they were all thieves! Cheaters, liars and scammers.
After a very stiff lunch where Tommy amused himself by showing off the manners and etiquette he had learnt and skilfully turning the conversation away from himself and his business, he spoke some about his family and Cora seemed charmed by the stories he told of Viola and Finn. It led to Viola and him being invited to stay for dinner as well, clearly Cora had missed her youngest daughter. So, Tommy nodded his head after looking to Viola and skulked around the stables- spending time with biscuit- before dinner.
/
"Thomas Barrow" Tommy rolled the man's name in his mouth as he stared intently at the man who had just helped him dress for dinner.
"Mr Shelby" Thomas replied, doing an admirable job of keeping his disdain hidden, Barrow hadn't wanted to help Tommy dress for dinner or be anywhere near him.
"First footman here, ain't yeh?" Tommy questioned tilting his head so his ice blue eyes glowed in the shadow of the room.
"Yes, Mr Shelby but you know that don't you?" Barrow said boldly as he stiffly folded up some of Tommy's clothes.
"You think my stailc tintreach, talks about you?" Tommy asked him in amusement
"Lady Viola can speak of what she wishes" Barrow told him blandly and Tommy smirked
"I've got plans and ambitions, Mr Barrow and when I look at you...I see a man with similar ambitions" Tommy stated
Barrow straightened, an unreadable gleam in his grey eyes "what is it you mean, Mr Shelby"
"First footman is good for a young man, you've done well for yourself" Tommy smiled at him "but you want more, to be a butler running a household, don't you?" Tommy asked
"One day, Sir, yes" Barrow told him "But it ain't wrong for a man to have ambition"
"No, it's not" Tommy agreed readily "it's a good thing, something to be admired and praised. Me, I'm looking to one day be a Lord. When that day comes, I'll be needing a butler...do keep that in mind Barrow"
"I will Mr Shelby" Barrow replied, his heart pounding at the offer as he left the room.
Viola sat on Mary's bed as she watched Anna fix her sisters hair after doing her own. Viola idly planned with her sapphire bracelet, she had been torn between Mary and Edith but Mary always hid her emotions so Sybil went to Edith while Viola went to Mary. Mostly it consisted of not saying anything and completely ignoring the problem. And then Sybil and Edith had joined them so Viola's opportunity had closed.
"Perhaps she misunderstood." Anna suggested to Mary after hearing the latest gossip running around the house.
"No, it was quite plain. O'Brien told her Bates can't do the job properly. Why was he taken on?" Mary questioned in disdain and Viola rolled her eyes.
"Like O'Brien could ever be trusted" Viola pointed out as she checked her nails
"You've never liked O'Brien" Edith pointed out quietly
"She rubs me the wrong way" Viola explained ignoring Mary's rolling eyes.
"Oh, he was Lord Grantham's batman when he was fighting the Boers." Anna explained to Mary, keeping quiet about O'Brien, though she agreed with the Lady Viola.
"I know that, but even so." Mary said with a huff
"I think it's romantic." Sybil interjected swooning.
"I don't." Mary stated before asking "How can a valet do his work if he's lame?"
"He's not very lame." Anna said in Bates defence before finishing Lady Mary's hair and asking "There. Anything else before I go down?
"No, that's it. Thank you." Mary waved her off, looking at herself in the full mirror as Anna left the room.
Mary sighed and confessed "Oh, I hate black."
"It doesn't look so bad on you" Viola complimented her sister, getting a smile in return.
"It's not for long. Mama says we can go into half-mourning next month and back to colours by September." Sybil bolstered her
"It still seems a lot for a cousin." Mary stated
"But not a fiancé." Edith pointed out quietly
Mary grimaced uncomfortable before stating "He wasn't really a fiancé2.
"No? I thought that was what you call a man you're going to marry." Edith drawled out sarcastically
"Edith" Viola scolded "it wasn't official"
"I was only going to marry him if nothing better turned up." Mary said blasé
"Mary, what a horrid thing to say." Sybil gasped in shock.
"Don't worry, Edith would've taken him, wouldn't you?" Mary taunted her younger sister
"Mary don't start a fight" Viola said with a sigh as she rubbed her forehead. Maybe she should ask Polly how to avoid having girls.
"Yes, I'd have taken him. If you had given me the chance, I'd have taken him like a shot." Edith proclaimed proudly, glaring at her older sister, how she loathed being the second-born daughter, always overlooked. Not as smart or pretty or charming as her sisters.
Viola sighed and was immensely thankful for Tommy's courtship of her, the idea of squabbling over a suitor, perhaps not even loving him, all for duty made her want to gag or even falling in love and not being able to marry them because they were promised to another. No, best stick to her beloved Tommy.
Edith stormed from the room with Sybil following and Mary rolled her eyes.
"She's so dramatic" Mary complained to her
Viola hummed "Edith dear has the poor habit of coveting what she can't have, you don't help you know, taunting her"
Mary shot her a look through the mirror "Edith deserves it, she's a spoilt harridan! Patrick was supposed to be mine, whether I wanted him or not but Edith was always poking her nose in! I mean, how was I supposed to react to it? What would you do if someone wanted your Gypsy boy? Though God knows why"
"She certainly doesn't help herself, Edith is the arbiter of her own misery and constantly playing the victim" Viola admitted with a sigh, ignoring her sister's comment, if someone tried to take her Tommy, she'd cut them.
Mary snorted and nodded "too right, for women, we have to go out and claim our life and happiness, I don't understand why you want the Gypsy boy but I can respect it, and I suppose, he is rather handsome in an urchin sort of a way"
"Thank you very much" Viola laughed, spotting her sister's pleased smile.
"I am very magnanimous" Mary told her with a playful grin but it dropped when Sybil knocked on the door and popped her head in.
Lady Sybil: I'm going down. Coming?" Sybil asked looking between them.
"In a moment. You go." Mary waved off but Sybil entered and closed the door before staring at Mary with focus.
"I know you're sad about Patrick. Whatever you say, I know it." Sybil declared firmly
"You're a darling." Mary smiled at her younger sister "But you see, I'm not as sad as I should be. And that's what makes me sad."
Viola sighed "You didn't love him Mary, and that's fine, he was just a way to keep what should be yours"
Mary hesitated a moment and then asked "What if it was your Gypsy boy? What if Tommy died?"
Viola's mouth parted in shock and tears filled her eyes that she blinked away rapidly "I would break"
"You truly love him" Mary said in awe, shifting to stare at her younger sister, a twinge of envy in her chest.
"With everything that I am and more" Viola told her fiercely, getting up and leaving her sister to her thoughts, Tommy was waiting for her outside and he smiled when his eyes landed on her. Viola felt relief run through her, he was okay, alive and in front of her. Viola firmly shook away her morbid thoughts, Tommy wouldn't die on her. He wouldn't.
"You look beautiful stailc tintreach" Tommy complimented, eyes running over her intently.
"It's unfair how handsome you look in a suit" Viola complained light-heartedly making Tommy chuckle in his raspy voice.
"Your man Barrow was very helpful" Tommy informed her as he pushed off from the wall and came to wrap his arm around her waist, sneaking a kiss.
Viola narrowed her eyes suspiciously at Tommy "You're trying to recruit him"
He shrugged, easily admitting to it "You like him and I want you comfortable in our future house, with staff we can trust"
"Let's focus on getting the house first" Viola laughed as she headed down the stairs followed by Tommy and meeting Cora along the way.
"Darling girl, you look wonderful and Tommy don't you look nice?" Cora greeted them happily, pleased to have her daughter in the house and while she wasn't pleased about the man, she had picked Cora was willing to reserve judgement until Thomas proved himself.
"Mama, you look stunning as always" Viola complimented her mother as they linked arms
"Beautiful, Lady Grantham" Tommy agreed
Cora laughed and led the way into the dining room, frowning when she heard her husband yelling.
"I hope I don't hear sounds of a disagreement." Cora interjected as she opened the door, Viola and Tommy following after.
"If Papa's in the room, there's a disagreement" Viola drawled out as she held Tommy's arm.
"Really Viola? Must you be so...bull-headed?" Robert demanded feeling his headache get even worse.
"I take after Grandmama in that way" Viola smiled serenely "And I take after you in wanting to marry someone my parents don't approve of"
Violet let out a delighted laugh "She's got you there, Robert dear"
"So, is there a disagreement?" Cora firmly steered the topic back, not wanting another shouting match between her daughter and husband.
"What? Is that what they call discussion in New York?" Violet Crawley asked, sharp eyes on Thomas Shelby as he escorted her granddaughter to a chair, at least the man wore a suit well, and seemed to be brushing up on his manners.
"Well, I'm glad you're fighting." Mary said as she walked into the room "I'm glad somebody's putting up a fight"
"You're not really fighting Granny, are you, Papa?" Sybil asked in worry, concern on her face, Sybil was just always so kind hearted. She hated fighting of any kind.
Robert sighed and resisted the urge to rub his forehead as he assured his daughter "Your grandmother merely wishes to do the right thing. And so do I."
Carson then entered and spoke to Lady Grantham
"Dinner is served, my lady."
After a rather delicious dinner they moved into the dining room for coffee and Robert swiftly made his exit to the library for a glass of port. Tommy escorted Viola to her room before heading back to his own, he wished they were back in their apartment in Birmingham. Or married. Then he could go to bed with her.
Tommy sighed as he relaxed in bed that night and assured himself, they'd be leaving soon and back home.
"And why are we back here?" Tommy asked as he glared at Downton Abbey through the window, it was fun to see Viola's world but it was only so long before he snapped and cut someone.
"Mama's having a duke visit, make friends with him and gain a connection" Viola told him with a sly smirk.
"How conniving" Tommy breathed out eagerly devouring this new side of Viola
"Beloved, when it comes to finding oppurtunity in society, I'm very good" Viola grinned up at him
"That you are" Tommy praised before barking out at Phil "eyes on the fuckin' road"
With his driver thoroughly cowed Tommy leant down and captured his stailc tintreach lips. He'd accepted the fact he was a possessive bastard and he wanted to be the only one to see her so undone.
"Darling girl!" Cora greeted Viola happily as the staff buzzed around them, pulling the luggage out of the car and heading inside, Tommy sent Phil off with a quick look before striding towards Viola.
"Hello Mama, we're so pleased to be here" Viola told her mother pulling her into a hug.
"Lady Grantham" Tommy nodded to Cora Crawley
"Tommy, you must call me Cora" She smiled at him, Cora had taken the time to think about it and discuss it with Violet and she had come to the conclusion that Viola was not going to budge. It was best for Cora to go with Viola's wishes and Cora truly wanted her youngest daughter to be happy. What other prospects were there for a fourth-born daughter? Better a man she loved, a man that had ambitions and wanted to climb up in the world than some old man or a fortune hunter.
Viola spent the morning with Tommy, showing him around her home village, her favoured part of the day had been in the woods, showing him the creek, she used to play in and the trees she had tried to climb, he'd laughed at how she had gotten scared. But then Mary had called for her help with getting ready for the Duke, Viola had rolled her eyes and stolen a kiss from Tommy before heading off.
Viola carefully slotted a flower into Mary's hair as they stood in front of the mirror, smiling at her older sister who was playing nervously with her necklace.
"Oh, do stop admiring yourself. He's not marrying you for your looks. That's if he wants to marry you at all." Edith snapped at Mary
"Edith! Don't be so foul" Viola glared at Edith who merely rolled her eyes with a huff.
"He will." Mary reassured herself, carefully eyeing her appearance in the mirror.
Sybil always one to bolster the spirit said "You look beautiful."
"Absolutely darling" Viola added on
"Thank you, darlings." Mary said with a smile feeling bolstered.
"We should go down." Cora interjected gently "They'll be back from the station at any moment."
The girls filed out Cora and Mary staying behind and Edith stomped her foot.
"Why is Mama spending so much time with Mary?" She demanded petulantly
"Because, stupid, Mama wishes for Mary to marry the duke and set her up as heiress of Downton" Viola rolled her eyes, ignoring her sister's reprimanding stare.
"Well, I could marry a duke! And why couldn't I be an Heiress?" Edith declared and Viola eyed her
"I thought you were heartbroken about Patrick?" she asked incredulous "And Mary is the first-born, she has priority, when she is wedded, you'll be the focus. Have some patience for Christ's sake"
"It's fine for you! you've found your future husband" Edith glared at her "Perfect Viola"
"Yes, because me wanting to marry a Gypsy Boy is just the delight of Papa's life. I'm such the perfect daughter, becoming a nurse and running off with a Gypsy boy" Viola said so dryly that even Sybil burst into giggles.
Edith didn't deign to answer.
Viola grinned at Tommy, her steps became lighter until she was stood next to him, he gently placed a hand on the small of her back, smiling down at her, face turned towards her so she'd be the only one to see. The servants had lined up and the family was stood on the steps of the manor, William opening the car door for the Duke and Papa.
"Welcome to Downton." Papa gestured with his hand to the manor as Mrs Hughes and the housemaids curtsied and the men bowed their heads.
"Lady Grantham, this is so kind of you." the Duke of Crowborough said cheerily, striding over to Mama.
"Not at all, Duke." Mama waved dismissively "I'm delighted you could spare the time. You know my daughter, Mary, of course."
"Of course, Lady Mary." Phillip greeted her
"And Edith, but I don't believe you've met my youngests, Sybil and her twin Viola" Cora carried on
"Ah, Lady Sybil." Philip shook her hand before turning to Viola "Lady Viola"
"How do you do?" Viola asked arching an eyebrow when he bent to brush his lips over her knuckles.
"And my daughters...friend Thomas Shelby" Cora finished slightly awkwardly.
"Mr Shelby" Phillip greeted him but his eyes darted back to Viola and Tommy didn't like that one bit. "Friend you say Lady Viola?"
Before Viola could speak, Tommy did.
"When Lady Grantham says Friend, she means the man Viola's going to marry" Tommy stated boldly and full of confidence. He'll take a hit on Cora liking him but he was going to shut down the dukes looks at his fucking stailc tintreach, Tommy would shut that shit down quick.
"Come on in, you must be worn out." Cora broke into the awkward silence, feeling embarrassed but Tommy didn't care, he stepped back and placed a possessive hand on the small of Viola's back.
"Oh, Lady Grantham, I have a confession to make, which I hope won't cause too much bother. My man was taken ill just as I was leaving, so..." Philip trailed off with a faux sheepish smile.
"Oh, well, that won't be a problem, will it Carson?" Robert glanced towards Carson who shook his head, speaking.
"Certainly not. I shall look after His Grace myself."
"Oh, no, I wouldn't dream of being such a nuisance, surely a footman..." Philip trailed off, glancing at Thomas "I remember this man. Didn't you serve me when I dined with Lady Grantham in London?"
"I did, Your Grace." Barrow answered swiftly
"Ah, there we are. We shall do very well together, won't we...?" Philip trailed off, wanting his name.
"Er, Thomas, Your Grace." Thomas replied
The Duke paused and then repeated "...Thomas."
"William, you'll help Mr Shelby tonight" Robert spoke up and William nodded eagerly.
"Yes, My Lord"
Tommy glanced down at Viola, looking for pity but her shoulders were shaking, he'd complained to her about being able to dress himself and how irritating he found the process once she had reminded him that it was part of the rules of higher class, he had fallen quiet.
"Good." Cora nodded, pleased it had worked out.
The family started to head out and Cora spoke to the Duke "I hope you had a pleasant journey."
They fell quiet, whipping around when there was a loud thump and Bate's was flat on his face, Viola took a step forward in concern but Tommy caught her arm shooting her a warning look before it turned suspicious and calculating, eyes flicking over the staff.
"Bates, are you all right?" Papa asked in concern, stepping forward unheeded.
"Perfectly, my lord. I apologise." Mr Bates said stiffly
They continued on their way inside, Tommy glancing over his shoulder to see Bates looking up at O'Brien and his suspicions were confirmed. As William closed the front door he saw how Anna crouched to help him up.
/
Tommy clicked his tongue as he expertly maneuvered his chestnut horse closer to Viola, he easily ignored William Mason who was acting as a chaperone for the two of them. Robert seemed to be under the impression that Tommy would defile his daughter as soon as they were alone...he wasn't wrong but Tommy wouldn't ruin their shared join of riding...though perhaps they could do a different type of riding...
"Beloved?" Viola's sweet voice pulled him out of his fantasy and he blinked at her.
"stailc tintreach" he greeted her, attention focusing on her immediately.
"You looked lost in thought" Viola hedged, glancing over her shoulder to shoot a pleading look at William.
The footman sighed "I suppose there's a rock over there I've been wanting to admire but I'll be back soon! And please don't misbehave my lady, your father will kill me and Mr Shelby"
"I promise" Viola beamed at the man who moved his horse further away so they could have a private conversation.
"So what's wrong?" Viola asked him growing serious.
"I've met a lot of conmen, scammers and liars in my life stailc tintreach, and your Ma's handmaid-"
"O'Brien?" Viola interjected
Tommy nodded "yea, her, she's...problematic, I'm fairly certain she tripped Bates to make him look bad"
"I have never cared for O'Brien but that was how she held herself and acted...but to do something like that" Viola frowned and Tommy immediately wanted to soothe the lines away.
"It's what I saw stailc tintreach" Tommy told her gently "when I looked back Bates was glaring up at her and she was smirking"
"I believe you" Viola assured him "I just, don't really know what to do about her. Mama trusts her so; O'Brien has served Mama for years"
"If you want, I'll get rid of her" Tommy said with a shrug, unconcerned with discussing the murder of a woman.
Viola blinked at him
"There's plenty of woodland to hide a body or send her down the river" Tommy suggested helpfully. Almost hoping she'd ask it of him.
"If I feel the urge, I'll tell you" Viola said, knowing he took that seriously.
"Good" Tommy said glancing up as William made his way back over to them "Shall we race back to the stables?"
"Oh, most certainly" Viola said with a grin as she clutched Biscuit's reins tighter, the old horse jerked his head up eagerly and stamped his hoof.
"Want to see if we can ditch the chaperone?" Tommy asked mischeviously, with a cheeky grin
Viola giggled "I think we could"
"Then let's go" Tommy said before digging his heels into the side of the horse and racing off.
/
Tommy sipped on his whisky sat next to Viola who was next to Edith at the dining room table, Duke Philip having been given a seat of honour, Tommy endeavoured to keep his mouth shut and ears opening. His instinct for opportunity was flaring and his instincts were always right.
"I'm afraid we're rather a female party tonight, Duke, but you know what it's like trying to balance numbers in the country. A single man outranks the Holy Grail." Cora said with a light laugh.
"As the only single man, you really are a lamb in a lion's den" Tommy said, itching to stir the pot.
"No, I'm ter- I'm terribly flattered to be dining en famille." Philip reassured them, smiling around the table before focusing on Tommy "and friends"
"Family soon enough" Tommy replied blandly, tipping his whisky to the Duke before taking a sip.
"What were you and Mary doing in the attics this afternoon?" Edith piped up suddenly
"I expect Mary was just showing the duke the house, weren't you?" Sybil glanced to Mary who nodded her head.
"The attic is a very overlooked part of the house" Viola added on
"Are you a student of architecture?" Violet addressed the Duke interested.
"Mm, absolutely." The Duke said with a charming smile and Tommy took a large gulp of whisky to cover his amusement.
"Then I do hope you'll come and inspect my little cottage. It was designed by Rein..." Violet left the invitation hanging, hoping to entice the man back.
"Ah." Philip murmured
"...for the first earl's sister." Violet finished her anecdote only for Papa to interrupt.
"The attics?" He questioned with a frown
"Yes. Mary took the duke up to the attics." Edith snitched immediately and Viola resisted the urge to kick her sister.
"Whatever for?" Papa asked with a frown
"We have some fun family heirlooms packed away up there" Viola said with a smile "like the boar our great-uncle hunted with a speak or that sea faring cousin we had, I enjoyed reading his journals when I was young"
Papa's face cleared in understanding, that soon turned thunderous when Tommy spoke up.
"Enjoy travelling do you stailc tintreach?" Tommy asked playfully "because no one does it better than Gypsys"
"You'll have to show me one day" Viola retorted flirtatiously, batting her eyelashes at him.
"Happily," Tommy murmured, taking the opportunity to trail his fingers along the back of her neck, enjoying the goosebumps that rose in his wake.
"Why was this, dear?" Cora asked Mary, firmly ignoring her daughter and her...partner
"We were just looking around." Mary defended herself casually.
"Looking around? What is there to look at but servants' rooms? What was the real reason?" Edith interrogated Mary, looking suspicious and bratty.
"Edith, did I not just mention the family heirlooms?" Viola demanded "you can get to them, through a ladder in the servant's quarters and it's the quickest route"
"But why in a place no one goes?" Edith wondered
"The servants go to the servants' quarters, so it's hardly an abandoned hideaway" Viola sniped at her sister tartly.
"But why not somewhere more public?" Edith pressed "what's there to hide?"
Violet chuckled uncomfortably and scolded her granddaughter "Don't be such a chatterbox, Edith."
"I think we'll go through." Cora spoke up eyes tight and smile fixed on her face
"I still don't understand—" Edith started yet again but Mary finally had enough.
"Will you hold your tongue?" Mary snapped at Edith as Viola kicked Edith underneath the table.
"Let's adjourn, I'm feeling rather tired suddenly" Viola stated, rising from the table, Tommy hovering over her in concern.
"Are you alright stailc tintreach?" Tommy asked her pressing a hand to her forehead "you don't feel feverish, did you drink too much wine? Did you not eat enough? Do you feel cold? Do you want me to fetch a doctor? Or I'll have Phil drive to Birmingham and fetch Dr Stoyle if that's more comfortable for you..."
"I'm fine Tommy" Viola reassured him, pressing a kiss to his cheek before spinning on Edith "What is wrong with you?!"
"Me?!" Edith asked "I did nothing!"
"Oh, don't play dense when your such a natural at it" Viola sneered "you purposefully brought that up to embarrass Mary and cast doubt on her! I know you can be vindictive but to sink so low out of petty jealousy?! Edith, you are vile!"
"But-" Edith protested
"No!" Viola hissed, slashing her hand through the air imperiously "I've had it with you for the night, Thomas walk me to my room, I wish to rest"
"Of course stailc tintreach" Tommy told her, striding to her side but not before sending a nasty glare at Edith that had her curling into herself.
Viola was awoken later that night by a knocking on her door, with a confused frown she opened the door, rubbing at her eyes before seeing a shirtless Tommy standing in her doorway. Was she dreaming?
"Tommy what are you up to?" Viola hissed to Tommy, sticking her head out of the door, to look up and down the corridor "It's late and we're leaving early tomorrow"
"Night is the best time to find ghosts and secrets, stailc tintreach" Tommy smirked at her "do you want to come?"
Viola bit her lip "if we get caught..."
"I happen to be a prolific sleepwalker" Tommy whispered to her; eyes gleaming like sapphires underneath the moon light.
"Like anyone would believe that" Viola rolled her eyes an unchaperoned couple sneaking around at night and they claim to be sleepwalkers? Ridiculous.
"They will! I have a doctor's note and everything" Tommy protested showing her the slip of paper in hand "So you'll seem the one come to defile my body"
"How much did you have to bribe Dr Stoyle for that?" Viola asked shrewdly "And we both know you'd welcome my defilement"
"Box of cigars and a cask of whisky and I absoloutley would, now come stailc tintreach, let's find ourselves some fun" Tommy said completely unrepentant. He held out his hand, fingers wriggling in invitation and how could Viola deny him? she grinned and slipped her hand into his larger, calloused hand and he started pulling her down the corridor.
As they crept down the guest wing, Tommy noticed a cracked doorway with two voices spilling out, he pressed his finger against his lips and led Viola closer on silent feet.
"So, what now?" Barrow's voice asked and Tommy grinned down at Viola, scenting the secrets in the air. The duke and a footman conspiring, how curious.
"Well, you- you know how I'm fixed. I have to have an heiress. If it means going to New York to find one." Philip replied
"What about me?" Barrow asked sounding...vulnerable and Tommy felt the waist of his trousers being tugged, he looked down on Viola who was biting her lip and looking concerned.
"Secrets are better than trust stailc tintreach," he whispered against the shell of her ear, Viola looked conflicted but then let out a silent sigh and leant against him to listen in.
"You...you will wish me well." Philip told Barrow.
"You said you'd find me a job if I wanted to leave." Barrow accused the duke.
"Do you?" the Duke said
"I want to be a valet. I'm sick of being a footman." Barrow said "I've gotten one offer but it's not solid, you are, your set up"
Tommy arched an eyebrow not insulted that Barrow was looking elsewhere but it was nice to know his offer had stuck into his head.
"Yeah, Thomas, I don't need a valet. I-I thought you were getting rid of the new one here?" Philip asked and Viola's eyes narrowed, Barrow could be a lovely man but sometimes allowed his ambition to get him to risk things, like his job.
"I'll have done it, but I'm not sure Carson's gonna let me take over." Barrow answered and then there was the creak of the bed as someone sat down "And I want to be with you."
There was the sound of kissing and Tommy's eyebrows shot up as his eyes gleamed in triumph, what a juicy little secret, the scandal that would break out! he was gleeful.
"I just can't see it working, can you? We don't seem to have the basis of a servant/master relationship, do we?" Philip asked sardonically
"You came here to be with me." Barrow pointed out quietly
"Among other reasons. And one swallow doesn't make a summer." Philip told Barrow condescendingly.
Barrow was silent for a moment before asking "Aren't you forgetting something?"
"What? Are you threatening me? Because of a youthful dalliance? A few- a few weeks of madness in a London season? You wouldn't hold that against me, surely?" Philip asked in disbelief
"I would if I have to." Barrow stated quietly with firm resolve.
"And who will believe a greedy footman over the words of a duke? If you're not careful, you'll end up behind bars." The duke threatened him
"I've got proof." Barrow stated confidently
There was the rustle of papers and then the duke spoke "Mm. You mean these?"
Then the hiss of the fire and the sound of grunts as a fight broke out.
"You know, my mother's always telling me, "Never put anything in writing." And now, thanks to you, I never will again." The duke told Barrow triumphantly
"How did you get that? You bastard." Barrow hissed at him, anger evident in his voice.
"Don't be a bad loser, Thomas. Go to bed. Unless you want to stay." Philip taunted Barrow and Tommy glanced around quickly as the sound of footsteps came closer, seeing the perfect spot he yanked himself and Viola behind the tapestry and clamped a hand over her mouth when she let out a squeal of surprise.
His heart hammered in his chest as he heard Barrow stomping away. Waiting a moment he carefully lifted his hand off Viola's mouth.
"Well isn't that interesting" Tommy murmured, his eyes calculating
"Tommy, you can't use this against Barrow" Viola insisted
Tommy blinked down at her "Why would I? I like Barrow, I don't like that Duke and he's got connections I can use"
"Oh, well in that case" Viola shrugged unconcerned
"You're not going to protest?" Tommy asked carefully
"He embarrassed my sister" Viola told him tartly
"Oh, I love you stailc tintreach," Tommy murmured adoringly as he crowded Viola against the cold glass window "seeing as how love is in the air..."
"We should celebrate" Viola murmured, tracing her fingers across Tommy's toned chest, teasing him as she trailed her hand lower.
"stailc tintreach" Tommy groaned deep in his chest before leaning down and capturing her lips in a passionate kiss, his hands trailed up her wonderful, delectable legs yanking the nightgown up and exposing her to the night air.
"Tommy" Viola whimpered in frustration, hips rolling forward but meeting nothing.
"Tell me to stop and I stop" Tommy whispered to her reassuringly
"More" Viola said decisively "not all the way"
"Mm, understood" Tommy murmured pressing gentle kisses down her neck, he wished he could leave his mark but couldn't in such a public place, where anyone could see...well then, the answer was simple.
Tommy dropped to his knees in front of Viola and looked up at her.
Viola swallowed heavily as she leant against the cool window, looking down on her Tommy who looked like an angel carved from stone in the moonlight. Marble skin with a perfect cut jawline, lips thin but defined and delctable. Sharp cheekbones casting a shadow and framing beautiful ice-blue eyes framed by impossibly thick eyelashes. Aristocratic and the devil all rolled into one. All hers...
"Tommy" Viola hummed, fingers tangling into his hair and tugging
"I'm going to leave my mark on you stailc tintreach" Tommy promised her, despite being on his knees in front of her, he looked perfectly in control "do you want me to? Do you want my lips on you? you'll have to be quiet... can you do that? Be quiet for me? Find pleasure on my tongue?"
"Yes, yes I can be quiet" Viola promised, feeling feverish and delirious from want.
"Good girl" Tommy murmured approvingly before his head ducked down and he swiped his tongue over her wet slit, god she tasted utterly divine.
"Tom-" Viola clapped her hand over her mouth as her back arched and her eyes rolled back into her head. Tommy wasn't giving her any quarter.
He nipped and sucked, changing his pace and rhythm until her hips were jerking against his face and when he found what had her barely suppressing whimpers, his hands clamped around her hips like an iron vice, refusing to let her go until she had reached her peak and fallen over. Her legs were trembling as he pulled back smugly, chin glittering in her juices. She hadn't missed the way his teeth had scraped over her inner thighs, leaving marks only they would see. Possessive man.
"Fuckin' hell, stailc tintreach" Tommy breathed reverently as he looked up at her "you look ruined"
"Y-you ruined me" she accused weakly
Tommy stood up abruptly, one strong arm lifting her and urging her to wrap her legs around his waist as his hard on rubbed deliciously against her still quivering quim.
Viola whimpered, the sound echoing around the small alcove and Tommy's other had clamped on her mouth.
"Shh, don't want to get caught, do we? Whatever would be said, the daughter of an Earl being defiled in this great house by a gypsy?" Tommy smirked down at her, enjoying watching the flush spread down her chest.
"Tommy" Viola whined looking up at him with those big doe eyes, looking pathetic as she pleaded with him for more.
"Fuck, you look perfect, stailc tintreach" Tommy praised her as he shifted his grip on her, allowing her to roll deliciously against his hard cock, the pleasure making his eyes roll back as her nails bit into the meat of his shoulders.
"Nghh, Tommy" Viola moaned into the hollow of his neck, as the hand not holding her up crept into her hair and started tugging insistently, allowing him to press kisses against her face and neck as he murmured reverently.
"stailc tintreach, mine, perfect, A mhuirnín" he slipped in between languages as he worked towards both of their releases enjoying her little whimpers and mewls, knowing he'd made her do it, that they were for him and him alone. Tommy grunted and tightened his grip on her hair as the knot in his stomach tightened "Mo mhuirnín dílis"
"A chroí" he dipped his head and sucked a hickey onto her chest, where her heart resided
"A chuisle" He skimmed his teeth over the pulse of her neck, barely resisting the urge to sink his teeth in, a dark, possessive part of him wanting her to bare his mark for all to see.
"A chéadsearc" he panted the promise "A stór mo chroí"
Tommy grunted as he felt his stomach tightening an impending warning of his coming release "math cho math dhomh"
Viola finally snapped and her teeth sunk into his shoulder as she screamed her release, feeling her gushing against him and it was his final straw, pleasure rushed through his body as he babbled to Viola earnestly "Mo ghaol mu dheireadh, m' aon is aon, mo bhualadh dealanaich."
His knees were weak as he leant his sweaty forehead against Viola's their breaths intermingling as the moment of perfection stretched into eternity.
"You've ruined my nightgown" Viola grumbled at him
"I'll buy you a thousand more" Tommy promised her easily, body still lax from their nightly adventure.
Viola snickered before yawning "I need sleep and to clean up"
Tommy dredged up the energy to smirk smugly, yelping when Viola pinched the side of his ribs.
"Come on then, you can sneak me back in" Viola told him and he grinned.
"How sore do you think you'll be tomorrow?" Tommy teased her but the way he hovered over her showed his love, Viola rolled her eyes and refused to answer the man, his ego didn't need to get any bigger.
/
Viola hummed as she dressed that morning, just as Tommy predicted, her legs felt sore and her thighs were decorated with numerous purple bite marks that sent a thrilling rush of pride and satisfaction racing through her. Thankfully, Anna had allowed her to dress herself this morning, Viola had waved her off and pointed out that her three sisters would need the help more than she did.
When she walked down the main staircase she saw Tommy leaning against the banister watching Lord Grantham and Carson in amusement, she took the opportunity to sneak up on him but his head snapped over to her, as if he had an inbuilt radar for Viola Crawley.
"stailc tintreach" he purred "how did you sleep?"
"Wonderfully" Viola replied shooting him a slightly chiding look
"Oh?" he wondered innocently "did yesterdays activities tire you out?"
"It was a rather exciting day" Viola said keeping a straight face as her father watched their exchange with a hint of suspicion. Viola plotted a violent murder for her beloved, Arthur would help her hide the body, she was sure. sniffing, she strode out of the house with Tommy chasing her heels, chuckling at her.
"You've been so kind, Lady Grantham, thank you." The duke said to Mama as she showed him out
"Goodbye, Duke." Cora bid him, feeling slightly annoyed
"You will make my farewells to your other delightful daughters?" the Duke asked as his eyes flickered to where Tommy and Viola was standing, Tommy felt reassured in his position to Viola but still wrapped an arm around Viola and stared at him challengingly
"They'd have been down if they'd known you were leaving so soon." Cora brought the topic back to her own agender
"Alas, s-something's come up which has taken me quite by surprise." The duke bid off
"Obviously." Cora said dryly.
"Well, Grantham, this has been a highly enjoyable interlude." The duke turned to Papa with a smile.
"Has it? And I feared it had proved a disappointment." Papa retorted, still furious over last night.
"Not at all. Not at all, a short stay in your lovely house has driven away my cares." The duke said waving his cane around to emphasis his point, at the duke's car Thomas was tying luggage to the car and glaring at the duke.
"We ought to go, my lord, if His Grace is to catch the train." The chauffeur said
"Will you be taking the train as well Mr Shelby? Lady Viola?" the duke asked
"No, one of my men will be driving us back" Tommy said jerking his chin to Phil who was standing awkwardly by the car. The duke nodded and got into the motor as Robert approached Bates.
"Goodbye, Bates. And good luck." Robert told his friend sighing with regret.
"Good luck to you, my lord." Bates replied good naturedly.
Papa looked upset as Bats clambered into the motorcar, the chauffeur beginning to drive away
"It's not like that fall of his was his fault" Tommy drawled out, deciding to throw Robert a bone "sabotage is such a horrid thing"
"Oh, Papa don't be a fool!" Viola snapped out "Go and fetch the man"
Robert jerked and nodded before turning from heading inside to running after the car.
"Wait!" Robert shouted as he stopped the car, Carson walking after him, Robert opened the door and took Bate's travel bag.
"Get out, Bates." Lord Grantham ordered him
": I-I really mustn't be late." The duke protested but he was summarily ignored.
"Get back inside and we'll say no more about it." Robert offered, Bates took his bag from Robert and headed inside. Robert closed the car door and watched as Bates walked back into the house.
"It wasn't right, Carson. I just didn't think it was right." Robert explained to the man
"Now that's over, let's go home Viola" Tommy murmured and Viola nodded, following after Tommy and climbing into the car when he opened the door for her, with a look, Phil had leapt into the car and started driving away. Tommy wanted to be far away from the Crawley's right now. They were so dramatic.
"You seem like the cat that got the cream" Viola remarked as she snuggled closer to Tommy
Tommy smirked as he laid his head on his propped-up fist "More like the man that got the secrets, that Duke, well, he's going to be a very close friend. Just need proof first but that I can always find...or fabricate"
"You are up to something" Viola accused
Tommy's smirk turned into a toothy grin "I'm always up to something"
"You're lucky I like that" Viola murmured, pulling him into a kiss.
"So very lucky" Tommy agreed when he pulled back to catch his breath.
AN/
I need to edit but I'm high soooooo oopsie
Tommy *tries to offer a man a job and compliments him*
Barrow *Is...is he hitting on me*
Yes, Barrow, to get you to be his butler like recognises like and Tommy wants a cunning son of a bitch running his household.
I forgot to mention but when this story starts 1910, Viola is sixteen almost 17 and Tommy is just turned twenty.
by 1912, she's eighteen almost nineteen and he's twenty-two.
Robert is putting up with Tommy in his house because one they came for the funeral two Cora invited them and begged him not to say anything and three he's hoping if he ignores the 'rebellion' of Viola's she'll give up Tommy. jokes on him!
Cora knows her daughter is stubborn and has sort of given in but she laments the man she's chosen, though she secretly thinks they'll make adorable grandbabies.
Silly Tommy the duke was eyeing you up not Viola!
Ehh, yea they're going to have a big family and poor Viola, giving birth to ten kids but the wheel has spoken.
I hope to fuck this chapter is coherent, I think it is but half of it was written when I was sedated so who fucking knows.
Translations! :)
stailctintreach- Lightning Strike
A mhuirnín - my darling, my dear
Mo mhuirnín dílis - my dearly beloved, my own true love
A chroí - my heart
A chuisle - my pulse
A chéadsearc - my first love
A stór mo chroí - my heart's treasure
My last love, my one and only, my lightning strike.- Mo ghaol mu dheireadh, m' aon is aon, mo bhualadh dealanaich. math cho math dhomh- good so good for me