A/N : Finally a new chapter !!

Thanks to my wonderful beta and best friend Becca who's such an help to me with this fic

and all those of you reading the fic 3

Hope you'll like it ! don't forget to review


April came shyly, the weather still a bit fresh for the season. It had been hard for Anna and John to come back to their lives after their magical interlude in Scotland the past month. Nevertheless, their life as a couple was as good as ever. The balance between their work relation and their couple life was often a challenge - the urge to steal a kiss from the other at the turn of a corridor sometimes too strong to resist - but they managed it. Friday book club meetings were the worst; they couldn't act too lovey-dovey in front of the kids, but they were happy to spend some time together on work days nevertheless. The weekends were almost entirely spent in the bedroom. Scotland seemed to have given them an unquenchable thirst for each other. Now that John learned more about Anna's traumas, he wasn't hiding his desire for her as much as he did before, and neither was she. The fact that they were now living together full time for months only reinforced this newfound passion for bed sports.

Their sex life was enviable. For a man his age, John was certainly well built. However, what thrilled her the most wasn't his superb anatomy - though she felt aroused just by watching him do trivial things on several occasions, often resulting in another session of hot sex - but the way he was when they were together. He was so careful, affectionate and sensible. He always prioritized her pleasure over his, making sure she was satisfied and comfortable with what he was doing - and she more than was-. When he was making love to her, she felt complete. He was the only one able to make her feel like that. She didn't have much experience, but she knew what she and John shared was a lot more than sex. He was the love of her life, and she was his.

Life together made her realize that fact. They were meant to be together, she was sure that there would never be anyone else. She had never believed in true love. With the childhood and teenage years she had, she thought those things weren't for her. John shared this feeling more than she suspected. His marriage to Vera had been a mistake from the start; he thought he would never know true love and believed that Vera would fill this role he always heard of on tv or in books. Now that he lived with Anna, he knew he had been wrong. He started to believe he had met that proverbial "one". As they fell asleep in each others' arms after another night of pleasure, they both secretly thought about the prospect of taking their relationship to the next step.

Mary and Anna were enjoying a caffeinated drink at the local coffee shop, chatting happily. They hadn't had the opportunity in a long time, with everything that happened lately. They were both enjoying their life with their partners, but deep down they missed those kinds of moments. Anna listened to Mary telling her about Matthew's doting on her due to the pregnancy - from which she suffered of nausea - and she was supportive of her friend.

"This isn't the nicest part of the pregnancy, I can tell you" Mary complained

"They do say it gets better" Anna assured, even if she had never truly experienced a pregnancy.

"I hope so ! Mama promised me that the nausea would stop as the months go by and that I'll probably be wanting Matthew nonstop after that !" Anna almost choked on her coffee as Mary spoke.

"Thankfully, I got her to stop before she explained how it was with Papa" she made a disgusted face. "Mama has the tendency of sharing too much information. But I do hope she's right. I feel so undesirable lately, and when the hormones get the better of me, I cry while thinking that Matthew doesn't love me anymore"

"Oh, Mary… Matthew is besotted with you. I'm sure he would find you desirable even in a potato sack" Anna cheered her up.

"I feel bad for Edith. The poor girl faced this alone… and couldn't even have that horny pregnant woman moment" Mary said, trying to sound as kind as she could about her younger sister. Anna rolled her eyes, but Mary didn't seem to notice.

"I can't wait to feel them grow" she said with an emotion Anna hadn't seen in her best friend's eyes before. She was envious of that emotion. She thought more and more about experiencing this with John. They hadn't talked about it yet, well, they hadn't talked about marriage yet. But Anna was convinced she wanted that. She wasn't sure the sentiment was shared. "Matthew and I are trying not to get too excited about it all, because there's still months to go, but we can't help but plan everything : names, nursery, etc"

"I'm so happy for you, love. After what happened, you deserve it, the both of you" Anna smiled to her friend, who reciprocated, placing a hand over hers.

"I always thought marriage wouldn't be for me, but Matthew changed my mind, all those years ago" Mary admitted happily.

"I feel the same" Anna finally voiced the thoughts that had been on her mind for months. Her friend looked at her with curiosity. Anna knew she could tell her, she always told her everything - even the unwanted details of her sex life -. "I think John is the love of my life. I never felt what I feel for him with anyone. When we're together, and I don't only mean in bed, it feels like home, like a secure place. I want…I want everything. I want to be his wife."

"Have you told him ?" Mary asked, the corner of her lips raising without her noticing.

"I'm afraid. His divorce was a difficult time for him. I don't know if he would want to marry again" she said, her lips trembling.

"He loves you more than anything, Anna. Believe me, and talk to him" Mary advised her, putting the coffee cup to her lips. Anna nodded but a knot formed in her stomach at the idea of ruining what they had with ideas of marriage.


Dreams of a life together multiplied and Anna was torn. When John looked at her, she felt all of his love for her in his eyes and she remembered Mary's words "he loves you more than anything". She could feel he was of the same mind. He had made some allusions in the past about a future marriage, but they never actually talked about it. Once again, her courage was failing her. Her reason told her to speak to him, ask him what he wanted, but her heart wasn't brave enough. She stroked his hips, her head resting on his stomach while he stroked her hair softly. They were in bed, still breathless from the high they just experienced. The words were burning her lips. This was the ideal moment. But before she could gather any courage, John spoke.

"I love when we're like this together. I feel safe in your arms, my darling Anna. I hope you feel the same way" he whispered softly. Those weren't the words he longed to say. He wanted to tell her how she had changed her life, how much he wanted to stay by her sides forever. But, he wasn't that brave either.

"I do, John. I love you so much" she said, weakly. She would tell him, but now she wasn't strong enough.

"And I love you as much" he said, before pulling her high on him, so that he could capture her lips. They kissed passionately. Anna threw her legs on either side of his hips, rubbing against him, greedily. Soon, they forgot what they wanted to say as they embarked into another moment of passion.


On a late Friday night, Anna was helping Mrs Hughes with some supplies stock the school had just received. John had suggested he could wait for Anna, but she dismissed him saying she'll be alright. He was a bit sad but then she offered to bring take out on her way home and he had brightened up. They parted with a rather daring kiss in the parking lot. In reality, Anna wanted a private moment with her surrogate mom. She knew the schoolkeeper was of good advice and she was in search of one. The old lady had a maternal love for her and would help her gladly. She always felt comfortable sharing her problems with the woman who had taken care of her since she was a teen.

They unloaded and stocked the boxes containing various school supplies on the shelves while conversing about the latest news at Downton Abbey High.

"Elsie, can I ask you something ?" Anna blurted.

"Of course, mo nighean" The schoolkeeper said, in a maternal soft tone. The Gaelic term meant "my girl" as Anna had learned when Elsie had first called her that when she was a teen.

"How did you and Charles decide to marry ?" the blond girl asked nervously.

"It feels like a century ago" Elsie joked "Charles and I were high school sweethearts. He always promised he would marry me one day when we were at school. One day, he just proposed" she explained, dreamily. Her eyes were filled with nostalgia and love. However, her answer made Anna even more anxious.

"That is sweet" Anna smiled, her smile quite small.

"Out with it, mo ghraidh", Mrs Hughes always used Scottish endearment when she was talking to the people she loved the most and for whom she cared a lot. Anna and Charles were the only ones privy to them, especially this one meaning "my dear".

Anna broke down in tears, and Elsie looked at her confused before rushing to her side, hugging her tight.

"What is wrong, Anna dear ? You can tell me" she whispered softly. She had seen the younger woman in the depth of despair before, and she was heartbroken to know her girl was suffering again. She hoped Mr Bates was treating her well. "Has Mr Bates done something wrong ? Did he hurt you, force you ? Are you pregnant ?"

Anna froze at that word. Elsie sensed it and looked at her, searching her eyes for answers. She relaxed when she saw that the other woman wasn't frightened. It wasn't something grave at least.

"Anna, you're not pregnant ?" There wasn't any accusation in the schoolkeeper's voice. She was only trying to help her. Anna dried her tears with the back of her hand and looked at her.

"No, I'm not pregnant. But I want to be Elsie" she told Elsie who looked dumbfounded.

"What do you mean ?" she asked.

"I love Mr Bates more than I have ever loved anyone. I want to be with him forever. I want to be his wife. I want to have children with him. I'm just too scared to tell him. He's been married before and it didn't end well, so I'm not sure he wants to do it again. I don't know how to tell him." Anna explained, her voice heavy as tears started to gather in her eyes again.

"My child, I think you don't have much choice. You have to tell him what you feel to know what he feels, you can't guess his feelings. I know it's hard, but that's the only way. Perhaps, you could talk to him about buying a house together. I know you're doing well in your flat, but taking another step might open discussions. I believe that this discussion will come naturally when the time is right for both of you. I can see how much that man loves you, I'm sure he's as scared as you are" Elsie advised. Anna nodded. This wasn't a bad idea, she wasn't forced to ask him directly if he wanted to marry, if she simply suggested they buy a bigger house for a potential future, this could work.


They walked home from the cinema. They decided it had been a long time since they had a movie date so they took the opportunity this saturday night. The weather was getting warmer and they enjoyed a nice stroll home. Her hand was in his, their fingers laced together. She looked up to him and smiled. He was really handsome tonight. He always was but tonight, he had dressed up well for their date ( in a button down shirt and black jeans, sprinkled with cologne) and looked every bit like a Charming Prince.

"You're really handsome tonight, Mr Bates" she commented and he chuckled.

"So are you, Miss Smith" he countered. She was stunning in her knee-length floral white dress.

"John. I was thinking…" she marked a pause. John raised an eyebrow.

"Yes ?" he chuckled.

"We should buy a larger house. Our flat is good but it's getting small. And…If we have children, we might want to have them grow in a real house" she said shyly, her cheeks crimson.

"Anna, love, are you pregnant ?" he asked, rather shocked. His expression quickly turned into one of happiness, and Anna felt relieved he wasn't taking the possibility badly. He was so joyful, he practically raised her from the ground, holding her tight.

"I'm not pregnant, John !" she giggled, begging him to put her down.

"Oh" he said as he lowered her to the ground.

"And here was me thinking you wouldn't be happy if I was," she said lightly. John's face turned serious.

"Why wouldn't I be happy about that ?" he questioned, a bit hurt.

"Well, we haven't talked about marriage yet. I was persuaded you were against the idea after your previous marriage. I couldn't bring myself to ask you but… I want to be your wife, John. And I want to be pregnant with our child. Perhaps not right away, because it doesn't seem like the right moment yet, but one day. I should have told you sooner, sorry" she looked down, but he tilted her chin for her to look up.

"Hey, darling, it's okay. I was scared too. I wasn't sure you would want to tie yourself with someone after what you've been through. I agree that right now maybe isn't the right moment, but we'll get there, my love. For now, let's look at some houses, what do you think ?" he asked and she nodded, smiling brightly.


They didn't have to search for long. When John told Robert about their plan, he suggested they move into a cottage he owned and made them a friendly price for the loan. The little cottage wasn't far from the school compared to their flat which was a bonus. However, it required some work inside and outside. They were helped by Matthew and Thomas for the outside, but managed the inside on their own, working hand in hands. They worked hard to make this old house a cozy home for them. They moved in early May. John baptized the house by carrying Anna over the threshold despite his knees and her protests. This funny moment was followed by him pulling Anna into a sensual kiss which resulted in her pushing him into the settee which broke when she lost her balance and landed on his lap. Although they laughed at the incident, they quickly forgot about it and let themself be wrapped into their passionate moment, kissing furiously, grasping at each other. They would have to fix it before they held the housewarming party

A week later, they invited their friends over to inaugurate the cottage. It was more spacious than their flat for sure, although still not as big as Robert's house. It had two floors: downstairs, there was the living room, kitchen and a guest bathroom; upstairs, there was their bedroom, their bathroom and a guest bedroom. Anna had prepared some sandwiches and hors-d'oeuvres for the evening while John sorted the drinks: alcohol for everyone except him and Mary. She was now three months into her pregnancy and they had told their closest friends so everyone was doting on her.

Anna was refilling the crisps bowl when she felt a presence behind her. She just smiled when John circled her with his arms, putting his head on her shoulder. They stayed like this silently, just appreciating the fact they're finally in their own home, a house where they would grow old and have a family together. Their sweet moment was interrupted by Mary, searching for more crisps.

"Oh, I'm sorry, didn't mean to interrupt" Mary quipped, mockingly putting her hand over her eyes. "I'd suggest going to your room though, I wouldn't like little Marigold to see you"

"Mary !" Anna rolled her eyes. John backed away from her, smirking.

"I just came for the crisps," she defended herself, reaching for the bowl. "Congratulations, your house is beautiful. I guess we should buy one too, now that there's a little one coming" she stated, running her hand over her belly. Anna smiled at the motion.

"We should," Matthew agreed as he entered the room. He placed himself behind his wife, holding her shoulders lovingly. She turned around to look at him with a knowing smile. Anna and John shared a look too, considering mentally about a future together expecting a baby.


Anna's birthday was around the corner. John dug into his imagination to find the perfect gift for his girlfriend. After 6 months together, he wanted the gift to be meaningful. He wanted to take her to a good restaurant and a musical in London for a start. He knew she loved musicals, and he wanted to make her happy. Then he considered offering her a jewel, as precious as she was for him. He'd have to think further on it.

She walked into the bedroom as he was looking at some jewelry sites. He precipitatedly clicked on the cross to close the tab. Anna walked to him and sat next to him on the bed. She snuggled next to him, her head on his shoulder, turning it so she could kiss his jaw.

"Hi darling, what were you looking at ?" she asked.

"Uh…Sports" he stuttered.

"John Bates, you're a terrible liar" she chuckled "You remember my birthday is coming soon ?"

"I do remember, yes. But I won't spoil your surprise, Miss Smith" he chuckled before leaning in to kiss her sweetly. She hooked her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss.

They kissed languidly until John's phone rang. He didn't want to pull away, but he recognized the special ringtone he had set for his mother. He reluctantly pulled back to pick up the call. He told Anna it was his mom.

"Mam ?"

"Johnny ! My boy, it's good to hear you" the old lady almost shouted on the phone. John moved the phone away from his ear, making Anna laugh.

"Good to hear you too, Mam" he said lovingly, a tender smile on his face.

"I heard Anna's laugh. She's here with you ?" she asked.

"Yes, I'm here, Mrs Bates," Anna replied.

"How many times must I tell you to call me Margaret ?" she chided, making her irish accent come out.

"Sorry, Margaret," Anna chuckled. John felt his heart swell. He was glad that his girlfriend got along so well with his mom. They'd only met at Christmas but had spoken over the phone or on video calls many times after that.

"Is everything alright ?" John asked, wondering why his mom is calling at 11pm on a Saturday Night.

"Aye, don't I have the right to call my son to see how he's doing ?" Margaret retorted with the voice she had when she scolded him when he was younger.

"Of course. Everything's fine, like I told you, Anna and I bought a house together" John stated proudly, looking at Anna who was looking back at him fondly.

"Oh my, I should come to visit you both soon. What about next week ?" Margaret happily suggested. John shared a quick look with Anna.

"Uh…it's…it's just, Anna's birthday is next week" he tried to explain, hoping she wouldn't be too disappointed. He didn't want his mom to ruin his great surprise for Anna.

"Even better ! I'll be able to give her my gift !" she surprised him. His mom was a fierce woman who always ended up having what she wanted.

"Oh, Margaret, I don't need gifts" Anna tried to reason, but the older woman wasn't having it.

"Nonsense ! I'll see you next week. I must leave you now, I have my knitting club meeting. Goodbye, loves" she joyfully exclaimed.

"Goodbye !" they said in unison, ending the call.

John sighed. He looked at his girlfriend, disappointed.

"I didn't see that coming. I'm sorry, darling" John apologized.

"Don't worry, John. I like your mom and I'll be glad to see her" she assured him, stroking his arm.

"But your birthday ?" he wondered.

"Oh, I'm sure you'll find a moment to celebrate it, Mr Bates" she teased, giving him a saucy look. He caught her mood and leaned in for a kiss. They resumed the kiss they had started before the call.

Margaret was due to arrive on Wednesday. As it got closer, Anna was starting to feel anxious. She loved her boyfriend's mom. They had gotten along immediately - which was no wonder considering what John had told her about his mom's relationship with Vera - but there was still a lingering feeling about not being liked by Margaret. John assured her many times that there was nothing to worry about. Nevertheless, Anna wanted to be perfect for her potential future mother-in-law. She cleaned the house at length for days, trying to keep John away to avoid being distracted. Her boyfriend had the tendency to distract her with his charms at the worst moments. She scolded on numerous occasions until she finally gave in. She wanted this man like she had never wanted anyone else and couldn't resist him long. After this lovely break, the house was finally immaculate.

They drove to the Downton station on Wednesday night and waited on the platform for John's mother. As she got off the train, she was welcomed by a tight hug from her son.

Anna hesitated, not knowing how to greet her. Margaret took the matter in hands and hugged her like she would have her own daughter.

"Hello, my dear !" she greeted, joyfully. Margaret's smile was extremely contagious, and Anna couldn't help but smile brightly in return.

"Hello, Margaret" Anna hugged her back, feeling less nervous now.

"When is your birthday my dear ?" John's mom asked.

"Saturday. May 17" John answered instead of Anna. The two women smiled at his knowledge of his girlfriend.

"I'm inviting you to the restaurant in London" she exclaimed happily, feeling the annoyed look of her son on her, she added "and it's not up for debate, Johnny"

John nodded, still annoyed that his mom was spoiling his surprise for Anna. He would have to talk to her about it. Anna thanked Margaret profusely. They walked to the car. Margaret sat on the back seat where she could witness Anna's hand on John's knee. She remembered how he would never let Vera touch his knee after his accident. She knew he resented his ex-wife for what had happened deep down. She wasn't guilty of it, but her attitude toward him had led him to go into that burning house. At that time, they were both destroying each other, whether it was through physical or verbal abuse, or by pushing the other to do stupid things like drinking or running into a house on fire. Now, he seemed at peace, to the point of letting his girlfriend know about his mistakes and injuries. She was glad of it.

They arrived at the house twenty minutes later. John's mom complimented the beauty of the cottage, making her son smile proudly, his girlfriend wrapped under his arm. He was incredibly happy that his mother was here to witness his second chance in life. He hoped nothing would come to destroy it because God knows they both deserved to be happy after what they've gone through. He had not told his mother about Anna's past obviously, judging it wasn't his secret to tell, but he told her that she had been through a lot just like him and that she loved him very much. It was all Margaret had needed to like the girl, but seeing her with her son now, as they were showing her the house, she saw that what was between those two was stronger than anything she'd seen before. She had never known a love like this but she was over the moon that her son was able to know one. She wondered if he would be brave enough to propose to her eventually. She knew her son and could see the insecurity. His experience with Vera had broken something within him, and she hoped to God Anna would fix it. However, he needed to allow her to do that, by allowing himself to dream of the future.

Since it was already a bit late in the evening, they decided to order italian. Margaret told them she'd have an early night to enjoy the next day plenty. The dinner was as agreeable as was the one they had on Christmas (before it was interrupted by Mary's call). They talked about that day, being grateful that it ended well in the end. At hearing the news of Mary's pregnancy, Margaret got giddier. She had known the Crawleys since John was a teenager and was glad to see another generation coming to life. She threw some knowing looks at her son, whenever marriage was mentioned, earning dark looks from her son. Anna witnessed them as well and was blushing. She was happy to notice that they would have Margaret's blessing when they'd wed. They spent the rest of the evening till Margaret went to bed, talking about memories from John's childhood, embarrassing him to the highest degree.

Margaret had gone to bed for more than an hour when they finally decided to do the same. They embarked in their usual routine, dressing for bed while chatting about the day.

"You see it wasn't as horrible as you'd thought it was" John teased, running his hand through his girlfriend's hair as she was sitting on her vanity.

"I don't even know why I was so nervous," she agreed, enjoying his ministrations. She knew how much John loved her hair and she had to admit she was easily responding to it, moaning appreciatively. "It was kind of your mother to invite us to dinner for my birthday"

"Yes…" he said non-committedly. Anna turned around to look at him, as he had stopped stroking her hair.

"John ?"

"It's nothing, my love" he assured her but she could see he was troubled. She didn't inquire any further. She reached to kiss him to soothe him. It seemed to work as he kissed her back enthusiastically. He bent to wrap his arms around her, pushing her to him.

"John," she hummed, wrapping her legs around his middle and her arms around his neck. His hands moved down to cup her bottom, lifting her from the vanity's chair and leading her to the bed where he sat her on the end of it.

He looked into her eyes and saw desire.

"John, your mother is down the corridor" she informed him, between moans and pants as he kissed her neck, earlobes, jaw, collarbones.

"We'll be quiet then ?" He suggested cheekily, letting her refuse if she didn't feel like doing anything tonight. She knew that and was very grateful for his sensibility.

"Kiss me" she just answered, and he did, before they stripped each other off their clothes. He lowered himself on his knees - being careful of his injury - kissing down Anna's belly then further down. She rolled her eyes and tried to be as quiet as possible, muffling her moans in his shoulder.

Thankfully for them, when they woke up on the next day, Margaret didn't make any comments or looks. They had been as quiet as possible, but they were still ashamed to have done something like this with his mother just next door.


Since they still had to go to work, they decided to take the opportunity to make Margaret visit the school. It gave her the occasion to see Robert and Mary again. She congratulated the latter on her pregnancy, sharing advice. This made Anna secretly envious. She hoped to be the one receiving advice on pregnancy one day. The presence of Mrs Bates also attracted gossip from the children and Miss O'Brien. Though the math teacher had been quiet lately. She might be worried after the scene Anna and John had witnessed in Scotland. They had talked about it together after that, wondering who was the woman who was insane enough to take O'Brien as her wife. Her being a lesbian didn't really come as a shock to the both of them. Anna knew her since she became friends with Thomas and had always known the older woman wasn't into men, and John had heard about it when he was still married to Vera because she was dating another of their friends back then.

When the bell rang, everyone returned to their occupations. However, Margaret stayed a little bit longer to spend time with her son in the library. She rejoiced in seeing her son doing something he liked. When he had joined the fireforces, she had been proud as she always was with him but a bit disappointed that her book-lover only son couldn't do what he had always dreamed of : living off books. Since he'd been a child, he'd always wanted to write books. His father had belittled him for that, so, even if his father hadn't been around for 10 years, he chose a profession his father would have deemed manlier : firefighter. She knew he had always regretted it, especially after his injury.

"I'm happy to see you surrounded by books again, mo mhac" she remarked, calling him "my son" in gaelic irish as she did when he was little.

"It's the dream, isn't it ?" he exclaimed, smiling brightly. His new life was suiting him. "I don't know if I told you mam, but that's how I got closer to Anna. We founded a book club together !" he reminisced, happily.

"You're a great duo, the two of you" she pointed out, teasingly. John's smile reached his ears.

"I love her more than anything," he admitted gladly. Margaret could see his genuine love. He had never talked about Vera that way. He would compliment her beauty, but he was never talking about her this way. He had never been one to be open about his feelings.

Suddenly, he thought about something. His eyebrow furrowed and he turned to face her completely. "Mam, I'm grateful for you inviting Anna for her birthday but…but I'd prepared a whole surprise for her" he explained and Margaret nodded with understanding. He searched through his drawers and took out a velvet box. His mother gasped loudly and looked alarmed until he figured out what she was thinking about. "I'm not proposing yet, don't worry. It's a necklace. An angel wing with a sapphire, it reminds me of her. I also planned to take her to a musical and a dinner in London"

"Oh John" she said, her eyes filled with love for her thoughtful son. He was nothing like his father and she was so glad of it.

"What do you think ?" he inquired shyly.

"I think Anna is a lucky girl" he waved off her comment with his hand. "I'll let you do your little date on Saturday evening but I'm taking you two out for Saturday lunch. Keep it a surprise, she'll love it !"

"I hope so ! I want it to be meaningful" he confessed, scratching his neck.

"As long as she can feel your love in it, it'll be meaningful. I must tell you something though" she looked at him with a warm smile. "If you want to marry that girl, do it !'

"But…"

"I don't care about your past life, your past marriage. If she's the one and my boy, believe me she is, don't hesitate. If you love her more than anything and she does too, you shouldn't waste time, Johnny" , she insisted, gently scolding him.

"It's not the right moment yet, but one day, I'll do it ! And I promise you, you'll be here to see that, and to see our children's birth as well" he promised, patting his mom's shoulder.

Margaret had tears in her eyes, so did John. She took his hand in hers, patting them before searching through her pockets, she presented a beautiful golden typical Irish claddagh ring. John recognized it, it had been hers when she was married to his father. She put it into the palm of his hand, closing and covering it with hers.

"Your wedding ring ?" he choked out, prone to emotion.

"I want ye to have it, mo mhac. It was my mother's and her mother's before that. I know my marriage to your father was far from ideal, and I think it had been wasted on it. That's why I didn't give it to you when you married Vera. It was motherly intuition just as it is now. I can see you're going to be really happy with Anna. I want ye to use it, propose to her with it"

"Don't you want to keep it for Ed ?" John asked. Ed was his mother's new beau. They met when John was seventeen and to him, he was more of a father than his own ever was. They never married but had lived together since John married Vera.

"I won't marry him. He's the love of my life and I love him to no end, but I'm too old to remarry, Johnny. This ring must live after I do. When you have a child of your own, you'll give it to them" she told him, reaching a hand to his cheek, caressing it softly with her thumb, his hands still in hers.

John nodded and hugged his mother, weeping a bit. Once he pulled away, he looked at the ring. It was a beautiful thing. Anna would love it. He had no idea when he would propose but he was delighted to offer her a precious family estate as a token of his love. He stored it in his desk's drawer next to her birthday's present.


The rest of the week passed comfortably, John and Anna went to work on Friday morning, both of them having their Friday afternoon off. Margaret decided not to hang out at school but rather enjoy Yorkshire by herself. She went for a stroll until she was joined by her son and his girlfriend for lunchtime. They enjoyed a picnic in the park next to the school. Margaret told Anna they would have lunch in London the next day for her birthday. The young lady was still a bit embarrassed at the idea of being invited to lunch by her boyfriend's mom.

The next day, Anna woke up next to her boyfriend, grinning as she saw him watching her. Without saying anything, he leaned in to kiss her. They didn't deepen it, but it was long and intense. He pulled away and placed feather-like kisses on her neck.

"Happy birthday, my darling," he greeted her, nipping at her pulse point, earning a moan from his girlfriend.

"Thank you, love," she managed, grasping at him as he kissed his way further. His hands came to her hips, stroking them with his knuckles. He stopped his kisses above her breast.

"Would you like me to go further ?" he questioned softly. His lips were close to her ear, making her shiver.

"As in ?" she teased. She found it lovely he would always make sure whether she was okay with what he was doing to her, and it actually made her even hornier.

"As in this" he said, smirking as he ran his hand down her body to touch the heat between her legs. Anna groaned, already wet from his kisses. He peppered her collarbones with kisses, one hand playing with her breast. Anna moaned as he touched her, breaching her folds. He looked up to her and could see her eyes closed, her lips parted and sighs escaping them. She was so beautiful. "You're the most beautiful woman I've ever laid eyes on, Anna"

"Oh John" she whimpered, nearing her end.

He stopped his ministrations which made Anna groan out of frustration. He licked his finger and started kissing her breasts, sucking on them. She grasped at the sheets. He kissed further south to the wet spot between her legs. She gasped when she felt his tongue entering her. She was near and John stroked her thighs, to coax her into coming undone. It happened after a few licks. She gasped his name audibly, her limbs shaking.

He kissed her back to consciousness. She reopened her eyes, looking at his handsome face as he smiled at her, proud of himself. He looked incredibly sexy when they were in bed, especially after pleasuring her. His hair unkempt, his lips glossy from what he had done. His piercing green eyes could melt her on the spot. She could see all the lust and love he had for her.

"What a way to wake up !" she exclaimed, giggling.

"I wanted to start the day in the best of ways" he told her before reaching for another kiss on her lips. She could taste herself on his lips and she had to admit it was quite nice. She nuzzled her nose with his when they pulled away, whispering "I love you". John whispered it back, stroking her hair gently.

"Should I repay your kindness ?" she suggested, trailing her hand down his chest. He interrupted her, interlocking his fingers with hers.

"Nah, this was only about you. There'll be other times, don't worry" he assured her, kissing her forehead before moving from the bed. He informed her he would prepare some breakfast while she got ready to take the train later. Suddenly, he remembered his mom was in the house and hoped she hadn't heard any of what just transpired.

When he came downstairs, he saw her, standing in front of the oven, cooking eggs.

"Mam ? How long have you been up ?"

"Long enough to remember why I was against you bringing girls to your room when you were younger" she chided, and he reddened.

"I-I'm sorry…I-"

"Don't be ashamed, my boy. You're 43, I'd say you're past being embarrassed by your mother knowing about your sex life" she laughed at his embarrassed face.

"Anyway, I wanted to cook Anna some breakfast, but I see you once again ruined my romantic plans."

"I'm sorry, Johnny, but idleness is not my thing" she apologized. He only shook his shoulder, got closer to kiss his mother's crown and then helped her get everything ready.

When Anna came downstairs, she was pleased to see her favorite breakfast on the table and two of her favorite people sat at it. She thanked them both, kissing Margaret's cheek and placing a chaste kiss on John's lips. The three of them sat and enjoyed their breakfast. Margaret wished Anna a happy birthday, gifting her a beautiful embroidered bookmark. They shared a conversation about books. John took the opportunity to take a shower and get dressed. After they had cleared the table, they got ready, Margaret packed her bags and they drove to the train station. They took the train at 9 am and arrived at King's Cross around 11:30. Margaret led them to the restaurant where she had booked the table. It was a pretty place owned by a friend of hers. They shared a lovely meal together, Margaret told them everything about London. Anna confessed to being a Yorkshire girl born and bred. She had visited the capital only a few times. Margaret decided to show her around town. John was behind them, smiling at the vision of his two favorite girls being as thick as thieves. He had wished for his mom to act this way with Vera, but they never warmed up to each other. It was a blessing to see that happened now. It only made John want to marry Anna as soon as he could.


Around tea time, Margaret parted with them in front of her house, handing one of her bags to John. Anna looked at them with a questioning look over her face.

"I'm going now. It was nice seeing you both again. I hope you can come see me here soon enough" she said as she hugged them goodbye.

Once she was inside, Anna turned to her husband, still curious about what was in the bag.

"What is this ?" she asked. John smiled and took her hand, silently. He called a taxi and they got inside. "Where are we going ?" He still didn't answer and only gave directions to the driver. They arrived in front of a building which Anna recognized as being a hotel. She looked at John, confusion showing in her eyes.

"I still haven't given you your gift, have I ?" he teased as they got outside and walked to the reception of the hotel. She was getting impatient, her hands on her hips. He chuckled at the sight, before getting his attention back to the maitre d' who was giving him a key.

In the elevator, Anna couldn't wait any longer.

"John, will you please tell me why we are here ?" she asked.

"I need to leave this in our room before we go to the theater," he explained, nodding to the bag.

"Theater ? Our room ?" She was confused.

"It's all part of your gift. We're going to see a musical, then we have dinner and we spend the night here" he said casually.

"Oh John" was the only thing she said, overwhelmed. She hugged him, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

After they dropped the bag at the hotel, they freshened up a bit to go to the theater. They walked hand in hand to the venue. Both of them were stunning in their date clothes, they had changed into them at the hotel. John had packed Anna's favorite dress : a calf-length black dress with puff sleeves. Her wavy hair fell on her shoulders. She had some golden jewels and a pair of Mary Janes. John was matching with black denim jeans and button down black shirt, a chain with a celtic cross around his neck (his birthday gift from last December) and his hair raised a bit with gel.

They were sitting in good seats to appreciate the play. Their hands stayed clasped together during the entirety of it. John stole some looks at his girlfriend, seeing the happiness on her face as she silently sang along to the songs. He smiled, grateful that she enjoyed her first gift. Once the play was over, Anna couldn't stop talking about it and thanking John.

"It was wonderful, John. Thank you so much" she beamed, tiptoeing to kiss him as they waited for their taxi.

"The surprise isn't over" he reminded her, kissing her crown, smelling her hair.

"You're spoiling me, Mr Bates" she teased, and he chuckled.

They climbed into the taxi which drove them to the restaurant. It was fancier than the one where Margaret had taken them. Robert had recommended the place to John, assuring him a good table. The maitre d looked at them with disdain, as if he could see they weren't posh. John gave him a dark look which Anna noticed, and she squeezed his arm, calming him. She didn't care about that, all she cared about was that her boyfriend was an amazing man who had planned a big surprise for her birthday, and she loved him more than anything. She never suspected he could be this romantic. This only made her think again about the future. Would he still spoil her like that when he is her husband ?

They were seated at a table isolated from the others, which was perfect. They had ordered and were savoring their plates when John interrupted himself, taking his glass of wine in his hand.

"To you, my darling, happy birthday!" John said, raising his glass.

"Thank you," she cooed, clinking her glass with his.

"You're beautiful tonight. You're beautiful everyday, but tonight there's something about you, a glow" he complimented her, his eyes piercing through her, sending a jolt right to her stomach.

"The glow of slowly getting closer to 30" she rolled her eyes playfully.

"What should I say then ? I'm an old man now" he laughed a bit sarcastically.

"Shh, age only makes you sexier" Anna winked, slightly arousing her boyfriend.

"So it does to you. I suggest I give you your gift before we decide to go back to the hotel room immediately" his voice was husky. Anna's fingers were running over her neck. She looked at him, her midnight blue eyes almost black.

"Another gift ? John, you didn't have to" she scolded him playfully, touched by his thoughtfulness.

"But I want to," he retorted, taking a box from his pocket. Anna almost choked when she saw the black velvety box. Was he proposing to her ? Before she could completely lose her mind, he opened it to reveal a beautiful golden necklace with an angel-shaped charm ornate with a sapphire pearl. She clasped her hand over her mouth, looking up to see his smirk.

"Oh my god, John, it's so beautiful !" she exclaimed, impressed.

"I'm glad you like it" his tone filled with relief. He had been unsure about his gift after his mother had given him the ring. He had debated with himself for a long time to decide if he should propose to Anna today. In the end, he realized he wasn't ready yet. His mother had been right concerning his insecurities. His marriage to Vera had shaken his confidence in himself, and he needed to regain it before tying himself to Anna, no matter how much he longed for it. He hoped she wasn't too disappointed, but watching her teary eyes as she looked at the jewel he had placed in her hands, he knew she wasn't.

"Could you fasten it, love ?" she handed it to him. He took it, rising from his seat to move behind her. He cleared her hair off her neck, placing the necklace on the skin, the cold material falling between her collarbones. Once he had done so, he placed an open-mouthed kiss on her pulse point.

Anna's eyes widened, looking around them to see if anyone had witnessed it. "John ! Someone might see" she hissed, blushing.

"Let them ! Let them see what true love looks like" he teased, kissing her neck again more chastly. She turned around, facing him.

"Let them see what true love is" she whispered blissfully, cupping his cheek to kiss his lips. John could see the indignant look on the maitre d's face. He knew they had to move soon or they'd be kicked out of the restaurant. He pulled away, and he loved the sparkle he saw in Anna's eyes. She wanted him and he wanted her.

"We should go," he breathed. He didn't have to say it twice. Anna grabbed her handbag and rose from her seat, she took John's hand and they walked to the reception. They paid for their meal, putting on a decorum despite their inner giggles as they spoke to the receptionist who looked horrified by their previous behavior. When they left the place, they broke out into a fit of laughter.

John gazed at her laughing before grabbing her hips and pulling her close to plant a kiss on her lips. Anna moaned in appreciation, grasping his hair - undoubtedly ruining his brushing -. She tasted of wine, intoxicating him. Her tongue was chasing his in his mouth. He needed her, his body told him. He pulled away before they chose to jump on each other in the middle of the street. Anna licked her lips and he felt his knees weaken.

"Anna," he uttered, confused with desire.

"Let's get a taxi" she suggested to which he agreed.

They were restless during the taxi drive. They tried to remain civilized enough and not have their way on the back seat of the car, but they needed contact. Anna's hand was stroking John's thighs, arousing him without really noticing. The decorum remained - although it was hard to control themselves - until they were in front of their door. John fumbled with his keys before opening the door, stumbling through it with Anna. She grasped at his shirt, kissing him passionately. Her tongue caressing his in a way that made him lose control. He grabbed her hips, pushing her close enough for her to feel his arousal against her stomach. John closed the door with his foot. They stumbled to the bed, still tongue kissing. John pushed Anna down to the bed, unbuttoning and throwing his shirt to the floor. She bit her lip, appreciating her boyfriend's hairy chest. He really was her teddy bear, she thought fondly. He caught her look and winked, making her wetter than she already was.

"Come here" she breathed. He kneeled between her legs. His lips were on hers again, his hands roaming her body over the fabric of her dress. Her hands were on his backside, caressing the roundness of his bottom. She hummed appreciatively when she felt his lips on her jaw, leaving open-mouthed kisses there, occasionally teething and sucking on her earlobe.

"I want you, Anna," his voice was low in her ear.

"I want you too, John. I want you now" she moaned, feeling the wetness of his mouth against her neck. His hand was working on unzipping her dress. She rose from the bed to help him. Once discarded from her dress, she moved her hands to the front to unbutton his jeans. He raised his hips, slipping out of them. Now that they were both clad in their underwear, they resumed their kisses, their hands roaming over their bodies.

One of his hands was on her breast, teasing her over her bra and the other was working its way south, under her knickers. His fingertips caressed her core. Anna had expected him to stroke over the fabric like he did with her breasts, but it was a welcomed surprise to feel his fingers directly on her skin. She moaned loudly as he quickened the pace of his caresses. With one hand, he unfastened her bra, placing his hands over her firm breast, teasing her pointed nipple. His lips left her mouth, kissing down her body until it stopped on her other breast. He kissed, licked and teethed the nipple making Anna squirm and moan.

Her hips were moving to their own volition, meeting John's hand. She noticed the bulge showing at the front of his boxer. She took hold of his wrist, stopping his teasing of her core and grabbed his bottom, rolling her hips to meet his hardened length through the fabric of their underwear. The gesture made John pause his actions on her breast and he buried his head in her neck, moaning and kissing her neck as they were both rolling their hips causing friction between them. It was hard to resist increasing the pace and continue this incredible torture but Anna needed him inside of her.

"John, I need you…inside me" she pleaded, clawing at his boxer to take it off.

"Me too, my darling" he groaned, stopping his movements to take both of their underwear off.

He smiled at her, kissing her nose which made her smile back as he was placing himself between her legs. He took her hands in his, lacing his fingers with hers. He entered her with a slow kiss. Anna moaned loudly and John couldn't help but move right away, which only increased both of their noises. He gazed at her, loving how her blond locks made her look like a fairy. She was beautiful and he felt his heart swell as he caught the sight of her necklace shining on her skin. Anna caught his smile, she loved watching him when they were making love, seeing how she made him feel. She felt a sense of belonging. He was hers. She was his. She longed for the day she would be Mrs Bates, but she knew she wouldn't have to wait that long for it to be real. She knew now that they were meant to be whether they shared a name or not.

This felt good. This felt right. It always did between the two of them. As if they were made for each other in every possible way. It didn't take long for both of them to climax, gasping each other's name but they knew it was only the beginning of the night.

"Happy birthday, my love. I love you" he breathed in her ear, still connected to her.

"I love you, John" she replied, exhausted, lazily kissing his neck, nibbling his earlobe.

His surprise had been perfect, and they were perfectly content as they basked in the afterglow. Nevertheless, secretly, there was a longing for more. Both of them knew deep down, the sacred proposal they were both dreaming of wouldn't be that far down the line.