Unlikely Bonds: Embracing the Future Chapter 1

The Article

Tom purchased the local newspapers, a sense of unease gnawing at him as he flicked through the pages. His heart sank when he found the inflammatory article that was poised to ignite a storm of scandal. He knew that he had no choice but to show Mary the paper, yet a small relief washed over him as he realised that, at least, their names had not been printed for all to see.

Mary observed Tom's troubled expression as he perused the article, her curiosity piqued. "What is it, Tom?" she inquired, her voice tinged with anxiety.

Wordlessly, Tom handed her the newspaper, his jaw clenched in apprehension. Mary's eyes darted across the bold headline that screamed scandal and sensationalism.

📰 Society's Whispers: A Scandalous Affair Unveiled!

She took in the damning words that alluded to a secret liaison, one that had shaken the tranquil halls of an esteemed English estate. Although her name had been omitted due to the constraints of libel laws, the implications were clear. Her reputation, the most precious possession she had, was tarnished beyond repair.

Tom watched her closely, aware of the weight of the revelation and the damage it had inflicted on her standing in society. He knew now, more than ever, that their only path forward was to marry as soon as possible, presenting themselves as a respectable married couple.

The article painted a vivid picture of clandestine meetings and stolen glances amidst the lush gardens of the estate. It hinted at a recent gathering where a dramatic confrontation had taken place, sending shockwaves through the assembled guests.

As the details of the scandalous affair continued to unfold in the article, Mary's heart sank further. It was evident that society's watchful eyes were fixed upon her, awaiting further revelations with bated breath.

Tom and Mary shared a silent understanding in that moment. Their futures were entwined in a way they could have never foreseen, and the path ahead was fraught with challenges. But they would face them together, as a married couple, determined to weather the storm that now threatened to define their lives.

Letters to Old Friends

Tom sat down at a small desk in their hotel room, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light on the paper before him. He picked up his fountain pen and began to write a letter to Henry, his trusted friend and partner in their business venture.

Dear Henry,

I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to express my gratitude for your recent project update and the progress you've made on the stainless steel process control limits. Your dedication and attention to detail have been invaluable in moving our work forward.

I am writing to request some further details regarding the project. Specifically, I would appreciate it if you could provide me with information on the times when measurements were taken, including temperature and pressure readings. These details will help us fine-tune our approach and ensure the accuracy of our data.

On a more personal note, I have undergone a significant change in my circumstances. I have recently left my position at Downton Abbey, which may come as a surprise. It was not what I had originally planned, but life often takes unexpected turns.

I am currently residing at a hotel in Leeds, as I am preparing to marry Lady Mary Crawley, the eldest daughter of my former employers, the Crawley family. Yes, I understand this revelation may come as a shock, and it certainly was not in my immediate plans. However, fate has a way of leading us down unexpected paths, and I have come to realise that this journey is one I am willing to embark on with Lady Mary.

Our wedding is scheduled for Wednesday, the 17th of this month, here in Leeds. It would mean a great deal to me if you could attend and share in this momentous occasion. Your presence would be a source of support and encouragement as we begin this new chapter in our lives.

I understand that this may be short notice, and I appreciate any effort you can make to be there. Please let me know your thoughts, and if you are able to attend, I will provide you with the necessary details.

Thank you once again for your contributions to our work. I look forward to your response and hope to see you soon.

Warm regards,

Tom Branson

Dear Bertie,

I hope this letter finds you well. It pains me to put these words to paper, for I must admit that you were right all along. I should have heeded your warning about the risks of becoming Lady Mary's tutor. In my eagerness to assist her in pursuing her dreams, I allowed my judgment to become clouded, and the consequences have been dire.

Lord Grantham discovered the unconventional nature of our relationship, and it led to Mary's banishment from the family home. The scandal has grown to unimaginable proportions, with a dreadful newspaper article detailing our situation. Although Mary's name is not explicitly mentioned, her reputation is surely tarnished beyond repair.

In a desperate attempt to salvage her honour, Mary and I have decided to marry. It is a step we take not out of romantic love, but out of necessity to protect her from further disgrace. We are to be wed at City Hall in a modest ceremony, and I have invited Henry and yourself to attend as witnesses.

Bertie, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your friendship and the wise counsel you have offered me over the years. I deeply regret not heeding your advice in this instance, and I can only hope that you can find it in your heart to forgive my stubbornness.

I look forward to your response and hope that you will consider joining us for this solemn occasion. We could use a friend by our side during these trying times.

Yours sincerely,

Tom

The House

Tom had been diligently making all the necessary arrangements for their upcoming wedding, which was now scheduled for the following Wednesday at City Hall. He had also extended invitations to his two closest friends, Henry and Bertie, who would serve as witnesses. These two companions from his college years had been a steadfast presence in his life, and he was grateful to have them by his side on this momentous occasion.

With a reassuring tone, Tom updated Mary on the progress of their flat. The major construction work had been completed, leaving only the tasks of decoration and furnishing. He assured her that all the essential items to transform the house into a comfortable home were already in place, waiting for their arrival.

Mary felt nervous at the prospect of her new home. Of course, she realised that it wouldn't compare to Downton in size or grandeur. But how small would it be? She also spent considerable time worrying about what domestic duties she would be expected to perform. Her future was shrouded in uncertainty. At least after the flat viewing she would know a part of her fate.

On the day of the visit, Tom guided Mary to a charming Georgian-style house situated in Beeston, a suburb located south of Leeds. The house boasted a layout that included a ground floor, a first floor, a second floor, a third floor, as well as attics and a basement. Their new abode was to occupy the basement and ground floor flat. The flats were ingeniously arranged in a 'U-shape' configuration, with a central staircase leading to the upper levels. Each landing featured a door that granted access to one of the flats within the building.

As they ventured further into the house, Tom led Mary past the street door and into a spacious foyer adorned with a grand wooden staircase that served as a centrepiece. Beyond the staircase lay the front door to their flat. Additionally, another street door provided access to the basement below, through a convenient boot room.

The house held the promise of a fresh start, a place where they could begin their life together, away from the prying eyes and judgments of the world outside.

Tom guided Mary into the unfurnished drawing room, which immediately struck her with its spaciousness. The room bore an air of grandeur, and Mary couldn't help but envision how it would look once they had added their personal touches. A fireplace adorned one wall, promising warmth and cosiness in the coming winter months. The deep green walls provided an elegant backdrop, and the polished floorboards gleamed in the natural light that streamed in through the large bay window. Mary noted that there were no curtains, allowing an unobstructed view outside.

From the drawing room, they proceeded into the dining room through wooden double doors. This room bore a different colour scheme, painted in a rich maroon shade. The white ceilings and mouldings added a touch of sophistication to the space. It was evident that Tom had put thought into the aesthetic details of their new home.

Mary's curiosity was piqued when she noticed a green baize door in the dining room. She ventured closer, and Tom explained its purpose. "This door leads to a hidden staircase that goes down to the basement below," he said, revealing another layer of the house's design.

As they explored further, Mary couldn't help but notice that the house had been wired for electricity, a modern convenience she had grown accustomed to during her time at Downton. Tom confirmed that he had installed electricity throughout the house, including the bedrooms, ensuring they would have all the comforts of a modern home.

The dining room held a delightful surprise in the form of large French doors that led to a small terrace. Mary stepped outside and took in the fresh air. There was just enough space for two ironwork chairs and a small table, creating a charming spot for them to enjoy a cup of tea or a moment of respite. Stone steps led from the terrace to a paved yard, and from there, a vast garden stretched out before them. The garden featured a lush lawn and shrubbery along the edges, promising opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Mary, however, couldn't help but feel a pang of concern. She turned to Tom with a question that had been nagging at her. "Are these the only public rooms in the house?" The contrast between this new space and the grandeur of Downton was stark, and she was beginning to realise the adjustments that lay ahead in their life together. "Yes" Tom simply answered.

As Mary and Tom explored their new home, they entered a hallway from the dining room. This hallway was filled with possibilities, and the soft glow of natural light filtering through windows above two of the doors created an inviting ambiance. Tom gestured towards these two doors, explaining their purposes.

The first door led to a conveniently placed WC, a practical addition to the home. Next to it was another door that opened into the bathroom. Mary stepped inside and was greeted by a soothing sight. The bathroom was decorated in pale green, imparting a sense of tranquillity. However, what caught her attention was the wallpaper on one wall, depicting a lush forest scene.

Tom's cheeks turned slightly rosy as he shared a charming childhood memory. "You see, when I was small, my foster mother and I would spend hours looking at Illustrated Natural History books. I always wanted to visit a real rainforest." Mary couldn't help but smile at the image of a young Tom engrossed in such books, his curiosity about the world evident even then.

Continuing their tour, they moved to the other side of the hallway. Here, they discovered a spacious study painted in a soft grey hue. The room held the promise of quiet contemplation and focused work, a place where ideas could flourish.

The final door in the hallway opened into the spacious bedroom. As Mary stepped inside, she couldn't help but notice the pleasing shade of blue that enveloped the room. However, one thought began to nag at her. There was only one bedroom, and it became apparent that Tom had not anticipated the need for a second. If guests were to visit, he had envisioned setting up a bed in the study.

It dawned on Mary that she was expected to share a bedroom with her soon-to-be husband. She glanced around the room, her mind racing with thoughts. Breaking the silence, she tentatively suggested, "Perhaps we could have one wall with floral wallpaper to add a touch of elegance and warmth?"

Tom nodded in agreement, relief washing over his features as he realised Mary's willingness to make the space their own. "That's a splendid idea," he replied, his smile growing. "And Mr. Cartwright left a furniture catalogue downstairs. I've already ordered some essentials, including a double bed and wardrobes," he added with a slight blush.

As they stood in their new bedroom, amidst the blank canvas of blue walls, Mary and Tom could feel the weight of their new life together settling upon them. It was a moment of transition, and they knew that soon, this space would be transformed into a home where they would build their future.

Tom guided Mary downstairs to the lower floor, where they entered a well-appointed kitchen. It featured the modern convenience of both hot and cold-water taps, a practical washroom, and a gas stove. The room was furnished with a sturdy kitchen table, a bench, and two chairs neatly arranged along the wall. Large windows bathed the space in an abundance of natural light. Tom pointed out that the house was already equipped with gas, making it convenient to have gas stoves installed in all the flats.

Next to the kitchen, a corridor stretched ahead, with three doors leading off it. The first door opened into a practical boot room, the second into a workroom, and the third revealed a cosy bedroom. Tom explained his plans for these rooms.

"I intended to use the workroom for my projects with Henry," he mentioned, a note of excitement in his voice. Mary soon realised that he expected her to utilise the other study for her university studies. The question of her education lingered in her mind, and she couldn't help but ask, "Am I still going to university?"

Tom turned to her, his expression earnest and supportive. "Mary, you've worked tirelessly toward your goal, and I won't stand in your way of achieving it," he assured her, his words filling her with a warm sense of encouragement. It was evident that their goals aligned well, and Mary felt a surge of gratitude for their shared aspirations.

The last room Tom introduced Mary to was a spacious, airy chamber with yet another window. He suggested it could serve as the housekeeper or cook's room, spacious enough to accommodate a bed, armchair, and table. Mary asked if they were getting a housekeeper, and Tom ruefully explained that "though you are a talented and resourceful woman, you burn milk," Mary grinned at Tom, at his words. He explained they would need someone to cook their meals and help with the house chores. This brought a smile to Mary's lips, as she was fully aware of her limitations in housekeeping tasks.

Returning to the kitchen, Tom and Mary pulled up chairs and began perusing sample books filled with wallpaper and curtain swatches. Mary eagerly shared her ideas about the furniture they would need for the public rooms, and Tom attentively took notes. In this moment, for the first time, despite the lack of space, Mary felt a genuine sense of excitement and anticipation about the future they were building together.

Note: I am not completely happy with this chapter, by most people's standards the flat is huge, but I am trying to balance Mary's point of view, who has just come from a home with 120 rooms, so it feels miniscule to her. I will have to stop here, for a little while as though a lot of this is written, I even have some of the next story in the series written. But because this has to fit in with Anna's/Mary's letters in previous story, it is proving more tricky then I first thought. I am excited to get this posted, but I have to hold myself back, as it's not ready really to post