Note: The first three pages discusses contraceptives available in 1913, this information is accurate to 1913, skip ahead if you do not want to read about consensual adults discussing family planning.
Unlikely Bonds: Embracing the Future Chapter 4
An Important Decision
Tom and Mary lay together in the intimate embrace of their bed, the soft sheets a comforting backdrop to their naked bodies. Mary's fingers danced gently over Tom's chest, her touch light and affectionate. She had always found herself intrigued by Tom's sparse chest hair, a contrast to the stories she had heard about the hairiness of some men.
Her voice was quiet and tinged with a touch of nervousness as she spoke, her fingers continuing their gentle exploration. "I've been thinking, Tom, that the activities we've been enjoying could lead to babies," Mary admitted, her gaze meeting her husband's.
Tom turned his head to look at Mary, his gaze meeting hers as he absorbed her words. "Go on," he encouraged her, his voice steady.
Mary continued, her words cautious yet earnest, "I think we should find a way to slow down the process a bit. It might make things difficult if I'm going to university."
Tom, his expression thoughtful, responded, "Do you know how to prevent it?"
Mary shook her head slightly, her uncertainty showing. "No, I thought you might know."
Tom considered her words for a moment before offering a straightforward answer, "The only surefire way to avoid having babies is by abstaining from the activity that leads to it."
Mary wasn't entirely pleased with that solution, as she had been enjoying her intimate moments with her husband. "Well, didn't you ever think about this before you met me?" she inquired, gently probing the subject.
Tom blushed slightly, looking somewhat sheepish. "I never engaged in such activities before I met you," he confessed.
Mary was genuinely surprised by his admission. "You mean you've never had a lover before me?"
Tom nodded. "I started university when I was just sixteen, a few years younger than my classmates. All the women there were too focused on their studies to bother with a scrawny fellow like me. Besides, given the circumstances of my birth, I never wanted to put a woman in a position like my mother was in."
Mary listened, absorbing his words, and felt a rush of affection for her husband. She realised the depth of his commitment to her and his thoughtful consideration of these matters.
"I spoke with Mrs. Finlay the other day," Mary explained, shifting the conversation towards a solution. "She mentioned that her husband is a doctor who specialises in women's health, babies, and such. You should talk to him about it."
Tom let out a sigh, recognizing the wisdom in Mary's suggestion. He also understood that in a world biased against women, it would be more acceptable for a husband to inquire about preventing pregnancy.
"I'll call in at lunchtime and seek the doctor's advice," Tom agreed, his voice conveying his willingness to address the issue.
With the matter settled for now, Mary snuggled closer to Tom, finding comfort in his arms. She allowed thoughts of future babies to fill her mind as she drifted off to sleep, envisioning little ones with round, smiley faces and Tom's eyes. While they hoped for a family one day, they both understood the importance of timing and their current aspirations.
Tom felt a mixture of awkwardness and determination as he called in to Dr. Finlay's flat during his lunch break. He had never expected to find himself in such a conversation with a medical professional, but he understood the importance of addressing this matter. He was met with a warm, reassuring smile when Mrs Finlay answered the door.
"Good afternoon, Mrs Finlay, might I have a word with your husband?" Tom asked.
"Yes, please come in, follow me," she leads Tom to a door and knocks gently, "Gerard, Mr Branson is here to see you," "Come in," Dr Finlay calls out.
"Dr. Finlay, it's Tom Branson," he began, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of nervousness. "I was hoping I could speak with you about a rather delicate matter."
Dr. Finlay, a man in his sixties with white bushy hair and beard, listened attentively. "Of course, Mr. Branson. What's on your mind?"
Tom took a deep breath and ventured, "My wife and I didn't know who to go to. It's about contraception, Doctor. My wife and I, we're not ready for children just yet, given our current circumstances. I was wondering if you could offer some advice or guidance on how to... well, delay or prevent pregnancy."
Dr. Finlay, ever the professional, nodded understandingly. "I see, Mr. Branson. It's important for couples to have control over their family planning. There are a few methods available. The most common one is the barrier method, which involves using a physical barrier to prevent sperm from reaching the egg."
Tom listened intently, grateful for Dr. Finlay's straightforward explanation.
"Barrier methods typically include devices like diaphragms or cervical caps," Dr. Finlay continued. "However, these should be fitted by a gynaecologist to ensure they're the right size and placed correctly. If Mrs. Branson is interested in this method, I can certainly provide a referral to a trusted gynaecologist."
Tom appreciated the doctor's offer of assistance. "Thank you, Doctor. That would be most helpful. We just want to make sure we're taking the right steps for our situation."
Dr. Finlay reassured him, "It's always wise to seek professional advice when it comes to matters of contraception. I'll arrange for the referral, and your wife can discuss her options with the specialist. Is there anything else you'd like to know or any concerns you have?"
Tom felt a sense of relief that he was addressing this matter, even if it was a bit uncomfortable. "No, Doctor, that covers it for now. Thank you for your help and guidance. We appreciate it."
Dr. Finlay offered a reassuring smile through the phone. "You're welcome, Mr. Branson. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions or if there's anything else I can assist you with. Take care, and best wishes to you and your wife."
With the conversation concluded, Tom returned to his flat, feeling a sense of responsibility and relief for taking this important step in ensuring their family planning aligned with their current aspirations and circumstances.
Letter from Anna
My Dearest Lady Mary,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I must say, your absence has caused quite a stir at Downton Abbey, and your family, including your Grandmother, Mr. Matthew Crawley, and Mrs. Isobel Crawley, have been expressing their concern for your well-being. They all wish to know where you are and how you're faring.
First and foremost, let me offer my heartfelt congratulations on your recent marriage to Mr. Branson. It warms my heart to know that you have found companionship and happiness. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Mr. Branson during his time at Downton, and I can confirm that he is a kind and intelligent man. I have no doubt that the two of you will create a wonderful life together.
Now, onto the matter of laundry starch. I appreciate your interest in learning about household duties, and I'm more than happy to help. To use laundry starch effectively, follow these steps:
Begin by dissolving a small amount of starch in cold water. You can find starch at local general stores or specialty shops.
Gradually add hot water to the mixture, stirring constantly until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Pour the starch mixture into a larger container filled with enough water to submerge your clothing items.
Immerse the clothes into the starch solution, making sure they are fully saturated.
Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the clothes.
Hang the clothes on a line or lay them flat to dry, allowing the starch to set.
Once the clothes are dry, you'll notice that they have a crisp and stiff texture. To soften them, you can use a cool iron while they are slightly damp. This will give your garments that desired polished finish.
I let your family know that you wrote me and that you were now married. Your family know that I've written to you, I will certainly convey any messages you want to your family. They are genuinely concerned about your well-being and would be relieved to hear from you. If you're comfortable, I can inform them of your whereabouts as well.
Additionally, I encourage you to reach out to your neighbours and acquaintances in your new community. They can provide valuable insights and advice on various home duties and local practices. Don't hesitate to ask for help or guidance—it's a wonderful way to build connections and create a sense of belonging in your new environment.
Please know that you are missed dearly at Downton Abbey, and we all eagerly await any news from you. Your presence has left a void that cannot be filled, and we all hope for your safe return soon.
With warm regards and best wishes,
Anna Bates
Shopping
Mary's visit to Madame Marie's Elite Apparel was a blend of anticipation and mild disappointment. As she entered the shop, the welcoming shop girl made her feel at ease. Mary had grown accustomed to such treatment back at Downton Abbey, and it was a familiar comfort.
However, her excitement waned as she perused the elegant displays. The prices of most items were beyond her weekly allowance. Still, Mary's composure didn't waver; she was skilled at concealing her emotions.
Her keen eye caught a discreet sign advertising a selection of hats at a reduced price. With only one hat to her name, this opportunity intrigued her. The shop girl, attentive to her needs, assisted in selecting a hat that caught Mary's fancy. It was priced at £2 3s 12d, a sum Mary could just about manage. Her purchase brought her a sense of satisfaction, even though she secretly longed for more.
As she settled into the cab for the journey back home, clutching her new hat, Mary couldn't help but contemplate her allowance. £2 10s hardly seemed sufficient for her needs in this new phase of life. It was a matter she knew she would have to discuss with Tom. With that thought in mind, she gazed out the cab's window, watching the cityscape of Leeds pass by, her mind set on the conversations that lay ahead.
Mary stepped out of the cab, her new hat carefully secured in a small box, held close to her chest. She had spent most of her allowance on this single item, but she couldn't deny the delight she felt wearing a new hat.
As she entered their flat, she found Tom engrossed in some paperwork, likely related to his steel project. Mary cleared her throat to get his attention.
Tom looked up, his eyes lighting up when he saw Mary. "You're back!" he exclaimed, rising from his chair and walking over to her.
Mary smiled, feeling a little self-conscious about her purchase. "Yes, and I have something to show you." She carefully opened the box to reveal the hat, a stylish creation with delicate lace and ribbons. "It was on sale, and I thought it would be a good addition to my wardrobe."
Tom's eyes widened in appreciation as he examined the hat. "It's beautiful, Mary," he said sincerely. "You have excellent taste."
Mary's heart swelled with pride at his compliment. "Thank you, Tom. I'm glad you like it."
After admiring the hat for a moment, Tom gently asked, "Did you find anything else you liked?"
Mary's smile faltered slightly as she shook her head. "No, Tom, I'm afraid not. The prices at Madame Marie's are quite high, and my allowance…" She let her words trail off, hoping he would understand her unspoken request.
"What do you mean?" Tom asked, "Well the hat cost most of the allowance you gave me," Mary said, "and the cab was quite expensive too". Tom's voice rose as he scolded Mary for her extravagant purchase. "Mary, that money was meant to purchase all your necessities, cosmetics, underwear, nightwear, etc., not just one bloody hat!" he exclaimed, his frustration evident.
"Why did you take a cab and not the tram?" Tom's anger was building, his brows furrowing in frustration. Mary, equally irritated, shot back, "You can just increase my budget. You have plenty of money!"
"Mary, it's not just your pin money," Tom retorted, his tone edged with exasperation. "I have to pay for a housekeeper, fuel for the fire, utilities, food, my own expenditures, which is a lot smaller than what I allowed for you, by the way."
Mary, clutching her new hat, stormed off to their bedroom, her voice sharp. "You're my husband, you're meant to provide your wife with shelter and food!" "I'm only your husband because of your harebrained scheme" Tom shouted back,
Tom, realising he had gone too far, quickly regretted his words and tried to backtrack. "I didn't mean it, Mary," he admitted, his voice softer and laced with remorse.
But Mary, seething with anger, slammed the bedroom door shut and locked it, cutting off further conversation.
As Mary lay on the bed, her anger and frustration turned into tears. She was annoyed with Tom for chastising her over a hat she had been so proud of. The hat now seemed like a symbol of their growing tension.
Outside, Tom, realising he needed to make amends, began tossing small pebbles at the windowpane, creating a soft tinkling sound. Mary reluctantly opened the window, and Tom's voice reached her ears, filled with apology and concern. "I'm sorry, Mary. Please open the door, and I can explain the budget to you again."
Mary let out an exasperated cry and grabbed the nearest thing to her, which happened to be Tom's good boots. One by one, she hurled them out of the window. Tom managed to dodge them, but their poor neighbour, Mr. Murphy, who had just arrived, was met with an unexpected boot to the chest.
"Sorry, Mr. Murphy," Mary called down, trying to sound nonchalant. "I'm just practicing my aim."
Mr. Murphy, looking bewildered and a bit alarmed, quickly made his way indoors. Mary slammed the window shut and retreated to her bed, her anger still simmering.
An hour later Mary heard tapping on the door, "Mary, I have some tea and biscuits for you. Can I come in?" Tom tentatively asks Mary.
"Alright," Mary replied, her voice still carrying a trace of irritation.
Tom carefully turned the doorknob and entered the bedroom. Mary was sitting on the edge of the bed, clutching the new hat in her hands. Her eyes were red from crying, and she looked vulnerable in that moment.
He approached her slowly, taking a seat beside her. "I'm truly sorry, Mary. I should have explained the budget better to you, and I shouldn't have lost my temper. We're in this together, and I want us to be happy."
Mary sighed, her anger dissipating further. She handed him the hat, saying, "It was on sale, Tom, and I've never had a budget before and after what has happened recently, I just wanted something nice for myself."
Tom took the hat and gently placed it back in its box. "I understand, Mary. And I want you to have nice things. We'll work this out together. I'll explain the budget to you properly, and we can find ways to balance our expenses. But I need you to trust me too."
Mary nodded, her eyes filling with remorse as well. "I do trust you, Tom. It's just... this is all so new to me."
Tom reached out and took her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I know, my love. It's new to both of us. But we have each other, and together, we can face anything."
They sat together in silence for a moment, the tension slowly dissipating. Mary wiped away a lingering tear, and Tom leaned over to kiss her forehead gently. "I care for you, Mary," he whispered.
"I care for you too, Tom," she replied, leaning into his embrace.
In that small bedroom in their modest flat, they began to navigate the complexities of their new life together, learning to communicate, compromise, and, most importantly, to forgive each other's mistakes.
Public Transport
Tom and Mary's journey to Leeds City Library marked the beginning of a new chapter in their life together. They took the train, and Tom, ever the practical one, had convinced Mary to purchase third-class tickets for the short journey.
Mary raised an eyebrow, a hint of resistance in her voice. "Third class, Tom?"
He chuckled, understanding her concern. "It's just a short ride, Mary, and it will save us some money. Besides, it's an experience, riding with the locals."
As they settled into their seats, which weren't particularly comfortable but sufficient for their brief ride, Mary couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement mixed with nostalgia. She was about to embark on her academic journey again, a pursuit she had put on hold for a long time.
The train ride was relatively short, less than 30 minutes, and Tom had advised them to travel between 9 am and 5 pm to avoid crowded trains. As they sat together, discussing their plans for the day, they were unexpectedly joined by a friendly middle-aged woman. Tom, being his amiable self, told her that he and his wife were headed to the library in Leeds.
The woman, brimming with local pride, chimed in enthusiastically. "Aye, it's a grand big building, it is," she assured them. Mary smiled at the woman's friendly demeanour, appreciating the warmth of the people in this new city they now called home.
Upon reaching the bustling city of Leeds, they caught a tram to the Headrow, where the library was located. The tram was packed, and there were no available seats. Tom showed Mary the railing she could hold onto for balance. Then, with a mischievous grin, he pulled her close, hugging her gently. Mary blushed, both pleased and slightly thrilled by his daring gesture, enjoying the intimacy of being held so close in public.
Finally, they arrived at the grand Leeds City Library, a classical-style building with a prominent presence in the city. The exterior boasted intricate architectural details, and the large windows allowed natural light to flood the interior.
Mary beamed at Tom, eager to dive back into her studies. This library, with its vast collection of knowledge, was the perfect place to reignite her academic ambitions.
The day was bright and crisp as Mary and Tom arrived at Leeds City Library. Tom, being the gentleman he was, held the door open for Mary, allowing her to enter first.
As they stepped inside, Mary's eyes widened in wonder. The interior of the library was as grand as its exterior. High ceilings adorned with intricate moulding gave the space an air of elegance. Large windows allowed streams of natural light to filter in, casting a warm glow on the polished wooden floors.
Mary couldn't contain her excitement. "Tom, it's magnificent," she whispered, her eyes darting around the room. "I can't believe I have access to all this knowledge."
Tom grinned, clearly pleased with her reaction. "It's quite impressive, isn't it? And you're right; this library holds a wealth of information. Now, let's find a quiet spot for you to study."
They made their way deeper into the library, passing rows upon rows of bookshelves filled with volumes on every imaginable subject. Mary couldn't help but run her fingers along the spines of some of the books, feeling a sense of reverence for the knowledge contained within them.
Finally, they found a reading room with large wooden tables and comfortable chairs. Tom pulled out a chair for Mary and gestured for her to sit. "Here you go, Mary. This should be a perfect spot for your studies."
Mary settled into the chair, her notebook and textbooks spread out before her. She looked up at Tom with gratitude. "Thank you for bringing me here, Tom. I couldn't ask for a better place to prepare for my exams."
Tom leaned down and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. "It's my pleasure, Mary. I'll be right here if you need anything. Now, get to work, and I'll make sure you have all the peace and quiet you need."
With that, Mary delved into her studies, feeling both grateful for Tom's support and excited about the academic journey that lay ahead of her.
Shopping Together
Tom had managed to calm the waters after their argument, and now, in the soft glow of evening, he sat with Mary at the small dining table, their budget spread out before them. Mary was still a bit embarrassed about the earlier outburst, but Tom's gentle expression had put her at ease.
"Alright, Mary, let's go through this again," Tom began, pointing to the figures on a sheet of paper. "You have a weekly allowance of £2 10s for your personal purchases. That includes clothes, cosmetics, and any other things you might need."
Mary nodded, her fingers tracing the numbers. "But it feels like such a small amount, Tom. I've always had much more to spend."
"I understand, Mary," Tom replied, his voice soothing. "But we're in a different situation now, and we have to make the most of what we have. We can't afford to overspend."
Mary sighed, reluctantly agreeing. "I suppose you're right. So, where can I shop for clothes in Leeds that won't break the bank?"
Tom smiled, relieved that she was open to discussion. "Well, there are second-hand stores where you can find some good bargains. I know it might not sound glamorous, but they often have high-quality items at a fraction of the price."
Mary's eyes widened in horror. "Second-hand stores? Tom, I've never shopped at such places in my life!"
Tom chuckled softly. "I know it's a change, but trust me, there are some hidden gems in those shops. And if it eases your mind, we can also check out Lewis's department store. It's not as grand as Harrods in London, but it's a reputable place with a variety of options."
Mary perked up at the mention of Lewis's. It was a name she recognized, and the idea of shopping at a familiar department store was more appealing. "Lewis's, you say? That might be a good idea. And, well, if you're with me, it won't be so bad."
Tom smiled warmly. "I'd be happy to go shopping with you, Mary. We'll make the most of our budget and find things that suit you."
Mary nodded, feeling grateful for Tom's understanding and willingness to compromise. "Thank you, Tom. I appreciate your patience. Let's go to Lewis's then, and perhaps I can get used to the idea of these second-hand stores over time."
Tom reached across the table to take her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "We'll make a great team, Mary. And I promise you, we'll find a way to balance our new life together, with all its challenges and surprises."
As they continued to discuss their plans and budget, Mary felt a sense of unity and determination growing between them. They were embarking on this journey together, and, with Tom by her side, Mary was confident that they could face whatever came their way.
Tom Branson stood tall in the heart of Leeds, a city that had become his new home. By his side, Lady Mary Branson, his wife, walked with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. It was their first visit to Lewis's, a department store that symbolised a new chapter in their lives. The grand exterior seemed to cast a warm invitation, and Tom led Mary through the doors with a reassuring smile.
As they stepped inside, the vastness of Lewis's interior seemed to unfold before them. Mary's eyes widened at the sight of chandeliers that cascaded delicate light upon marble floors. She could hardly believe that she, who had grown up amidst the grandeur of Downton Abbey, now found herself in such a different setting.
Tom's hand gently brushed against Mary's arm. "Are you alright?" he asked softly.
Mary nodded, offering him a faint smile. "It's just… overwhelming, I suppose. I've never seen anything quite like this."
Tom's eyes softened as he understood the weight of the moment. "Well, let's start slowly, shall we? We have a budget, after all." He smirked playfully, and Mary couldn't help but chuckle.
"Yes, the dreaded budget," she replied with a touch of sarcasm. It was an entirely new concept for her, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of anxiety and exhilaration. She clutched her purse a little tighter, its weight a reminder of her limited funds.
They began their exploration, Tom guiding Mary through aisles filled with garments that ranged from extravagant to practical. Mary's gaze darted from one display to another, her eyes drawn to the exquisite fabrics and delicate details that adorned the dresses. Her fingers itched to reach out and feel the fabrics, to embrace the luxury she had always known.
Tom's voice broke through her thoughts. "Mary, I know it's different from what you're used to, but we have a budget of £2 today. We need to find something that suits both your style and our means."
Mary bit her lip, her mind warring between her desires and the reality of their situation. She nodded, determination in her eyes. "You're right, Tom. Let's find something that fits within our budget."
They moved through the store, Mary carefully examining each rack. As she reached out to touch a dress, she hesitated, her fingers brushing against the fabric. It was a beautiful creation, the kind she would have once worn without a second thought.
Tom watched her closely, understanding the internal struggle she faced. "You know," he began, "sometimes it's not about the price tag, but how a piece of clothing makes you feel. You're still the Lady Mary I married, and no dress can change that."
Mary met his gaze, her eyes softening at his words. She nodded, a small smile gracing her lips. "You're right, as always."
With renewed resolve, they continued their search. Finally, Mary's eyes lit up as she spotted a simple yet elegant dress. Its lines were clean, its fabric graceful, and it seemed to carry a certain charm that resonated with her.
"This one," she said, her voice steady. "It's perfect."
Tom nodded approvingly. "I think it suits you beautifully."
As Mary held the dress in her hands, she realised that her definition of elegance was shifting. It was no longer about extravagance, but about finding a piece that resonated with her, a piece that was a reflection of her new life with Tom.
Together, they approached the counter, and as Mary handed over her money, she felt a sense of pride. The purchase wasn't just a dress; it was a symbol of their journey, of their newfound bond, and of the love that had defied societal norms.
As they walked out of Lewis's, hand in hand, Mary knew that their path might be unconventional, but it was a path she had chosen willingly, and one that held a promise of a future built on their own terms.
Good News
Preparations for Mary's upcoming examinations were in full swing. She and Tom had been married for four months, and for the most part, they had lived together harmoniously. Any disagreements they had usually revolved around finances, which was the most significant change for Mary. She hadn't realised just how different life was for the middle class, where Tom came from, compared to her aristocratic upbringing. The fact that her family's wealth had allowed her to buy a single dress for £5, which was roughly Tom's weekly wage, was a stark revelation. It was a sobering thought.
What made this adjustment more challenging was the homesickness she felt. She even found herself missing Edith in her own way. The knowledge that all of Tom's additional income, approximately £1000, was being invested in the business with Henry, added to her frustration.
Mary had always wanted to be an independent woman with an education and a profession, but she had never truly envisioned what it would look like. Renting her own flat, providing for her own needs, and being responsible for everything from clothing to food was a reality she was beginning to grasp. She was learning to appreciate how fortunate she was to have someone like Tom supporting her in her educational pursuits.
On this particular day, Mary was sitting in the study, her books spread out in front of her, deeply engrossed in her studies when she heard the front door open. She peered out of the room to see Tom removing his coat.
"Hello, love," he greeted her. "Do you have time for some tea? I have some news."
"I will be out in five minutes," she replied before quickly tidying herself up. She washed the ink from her fingers and checked her appearance in the mirror. Then, with a composed manner, she joined her husband in the sitting room.
Tom, seated comfortably in a wine-red wingback chair, poured Mary a cup of tea just as she liked it, with a splash of milk. They exchanged a knowing smile, remembering a past conversation about their tea preferences.
"Well, Mary," Tom began, "I had a letter from the solicitor today. You remember I mentioned that I receive a stipend from my natural family?"
Mary nodded, recalling how this had been a point of contention early in their marriage.
"They informed me that, as a married man, my stipend is increasing to £600 a year." He watched her reaction carefully.
Mary's excitement was barely contained, and she crossed her fingers beneath the table, though she tried to keep her composure. "That's wonderful news," she replied calmly.
Tom continued, "The extra money was never part of my budget. So, I thought we could hire a day maid, not a ladies' maid, mind you, but a general maid to help you around the house with tasks like keeping your clothes in order."
Mary's eyes sparkled with delight at the prospect of having a helping hand around the house. With a housekeeper who handled the cooking, heavy duty cleaning and the laundry service, her household duties mainly revolved around organization and maintaining the upstairs rooms. Tom often laid the fires before heading to work and ensured the wood and coal scuttles were full, lightening her physical load.
"Thank you, Tom," Mary said with a smile. "That would be a tremendous help."
Tom continued, saying there would be enough leftover to increase her pin money and possibly make some of the larger purchases she had wanted. Mary couldn't contain her excitement and flung herself into her husband's arms, hugging him tightly.
Tom, even though he felt a hint of worry about the expenses, swallowed his concerns and embraced her joy. He knew how much these things meant to her and was willing to support her in every way he could. As they shared a loving moment and Mary mentioned the beautiful winter coat she had seen, Tom couldn't help but tease her about the matching hat.
Mary laughed and kissed him, feeling incredibly fortunate to have a husband who cared for her happiness and was willing to make adjustments for her. As they kissed, Mary couldn't help but think about sharing this wonderful news with Anna, but in that moment, being close to Tom was all that mattered.
Money Matters
Mary's entrance exams were rapidly approaching, and the date and location were firmly set. Nervousness and relief seemed to be her constant companions as the day drew near. Tom and Henry's business venture was still in its early stages, and Tom had decided to give up his tutoring to focus all his energy on their new endeavour.
Amidst these significant changes, Mary and Tom had ongoing discussions about Mary's inheritance. Her determination to finance her education independently remained unwavering. To facilitate this, Tom took a step to assist her. He opened a joint bank account in his name that would serve both of them. One morning, they made a trip to the bank together to complete the necessary paperwork.
At the bank, Mary was handed several financial tools: a bank book, a cheque book, and a lodgement book. The weight of managing her own finances weighed on her, a responsibility she had never shouldered before. She listened attentively as the bank clerk explained the intricacies of the account and how she could facilitate the transfer of her inheritance.
With the knowledge she had gained, Mary returned home that afternoon and immediately composed a letter to her solicitor. In it, she requested that her inheritance be transferred directly into the account she shared with her husband, providing all the necessary account details. The act of taking this step towards financial independence filled her with a sense of excitement and accomplishment, bringing one of her cherished goals closer to realisation.
When Tom arrived home from work, he dedicated his evening to guiding Mary through the intricacies of her bank books. He patiently explained how to update the small book with her financial totals and how to write cheques. In those moments, Mary felt like a true adult, actively participating in the management of her life and her future.
Note: Mary gets her maid and increase in her pin money & now she has access to a bank account