Brothers United: Forging a Shared Future

The Start

Thomas could admit that he was cynical and somewhat bitter, consumed with the injustice of the world. Born as the illegitimate son of a lowly housemaid, his mother had worked on an estate much like Downton. Her cruel master had taken advantage of her vulnerability, leaving Thomas's origins steeped in shadows. He knew very well who his illustrious father was – the high and mighty Marquess of Donegal. But such knowledge didn't offer solace to Thomas, for he would never be acknowledged by his father or his family. Instead, he navigated life's hurdles, finding himself in the drawing rooms of Downton Abbey, where he silently served his betters afternoon tea, a seemingly invisible presence against the backdrop of opulence.

Thomas had an unusual childhood. He knew from an early age that he was a bastard, an illegitimate child born in the face of societal judgment. Even at four years old, he was acutely aware that this was a label that carried weight. Thomas had been born in the industrial heart of Manchester, a city that echoed with the clangour of machines and the grind of progress. His mother, a determined woman, had returned there when she found out she was pregnant. The Marquess's housekeeper, an embodiment of an uncaring society, had seized upon her vulnerability, and sacked her when it was obvious, she was with child. She returned to her family in disgrace, a single mother burdened by a secret that would forever shape their destinies. Life was an arduous journey, where she scrubbed and toiled, sweat mingling with the suds of laundry, to earn money for herself and Thomas. In the midst of the hustle and hardship, she held on to the hope of a better future for her son.

When Thomas was just four, his mother received a letter. It was contained in a tattered envelope, that had passed between many hands, that seemed to carry both promise and uncertainty. This was when she sat him down and, in a voice laced with a mixture of sadness and determination, told him that he was going to Bray to stay with his little brother for a while. Thomas, with his wide innocent eyes, had nodded in agreement, not quite understanding the implications of what was happening. He hugged his mother, feeling the warmth of her embrace, unaware of the tears that escaped her eyes, wetting his tousled hair.

Thomas loved his mother deeply, a bond that transcended the hardships they faced. Yet, she had no time for him. The never-ending demands of her work consumed her hours and her energy. She held on to her dreams of securing a better position, a glimmer of hope that would alleviate their struggles. And so, she took him to the bustling docks of Liverpool, a gateway to unknown destinations. There, amidst the cacophony of voices and the scent of salt in the air, a strange German lady appeared.

She wore a kind expression that softened further when she saw the young boy standing there, a bundle of curiosity and vulnerability. This lady, Frau Gunther, took Thomas under her wing and onto a ship that would carry him to Bray, a place where his life would take a new turn.

The journey was a blur of unfamiliar sights and sounds, of gentle rocking waves and a sense of anticipation. As the ship docked, Thomas stepped onto the busy docks of Dublin Port, where Frau Gunther, took Thomas by train to the shores of Bray, his heart pounding with a mix of apprehension and excitement. He was led to a modest house, where a surprise awaited him – a cherubic toddler, a bundle of joy with golden curls. This was his brother, the Golden Tom, a moniker that Thomas bestowed upon him in a moment of affectionate whimsy.

Thomas adored his brilliant, funny little brother Tom. As the days turned into weeks, he watched with wonder as Tom's laughter filled the house, a melody that brought light to even the greyest of days. In those moments, the weight of their circumstances seemed to fade, and Thomas found solace in the bond they were forging. The realization soon dawned upon him that they did not share a mother. They had the same father, the enigmatic Marquess, a man who wielded power from a world apart. But while Tom's mother had been favoured by circumstance, Thomas's mother had faced a different fate. It was a twist of fate that cast them into disparate worlds.

Tom's mother, a woman of privilege, had the good fortune to be born into a prestigious family, a lineage that came with its own set of expectations. This family recognized the repercussions of scandal and sought to protect their honour. They paid a disgraced German count, Otto Gunther, a man whose reputation had been tarnished by his affair with the former governess to his children, now his wife Frau Gunther, to look after young Tom. Otto, with his stern demeanour and a resolve to atone for his past transgressions, was entrusted with Tom's upbringing and education. In him, Thomas saw a sense of redemption, a man who had broken with societies dictates and now followed his own path and was now dedicated to guiding Tom's future.

Somehow, Otto Gunther learned of the existence of a second illegitimate child, Thomas. His belief in unconventional child-rearing led him to make a decision that would alter Thomas's trajectory. He tracked down the original Thomas's mother, a woman whose eyes still held the flicker of youthful dreams despite the weight of her circumstances. Otto approached her with an offer, an offer that held within it the promise of a better life for her son. He asked if Thomas could come and stay, and that he would educate the boy, offering him the opportunities she had never known.

Thomas's mother agreed, her heart heavy with both hope and hesitation. And so, Thomas's relationship with his brother was cemented in those early days in Bray, where two young souls found kinship in the face of adversity. The house that had become their haven echoed with laughter, whispered secrets, and dreams of a future that held both uncertainty and potential.

Tom was fortunate enough to receive a comprehensive education, even attending the esteemed university in Cork. His brilliance was evident, but his character held an element of idealism and stubbornness, traits he only partially shared with his older brother, Thomas. Thomas too had benefited from a good education, his learning stretching until the age of 14. However, life took a turn when his mother's demands for financial contribution compelled him to leave his education behind and return to Manchester. She had since remarried, and Thomas now had a stepfather, a clockmaker, and three half-siblings, but with the long years of separation Thomas was unable to bond to his younger brother and sisters.

The idyllic chapter of Thomas's childhood came to an end, the pages of his life story turning to reveal a new chapter coloured by necessity and responsibility. But despite the physical distance that separated him from his brother, their bond remained unbreakable. Twice a week, the ink of his pen etched his thoughts onto paper, carrying the sentiments of longing, hope, and a future they both aspired to achieve. Tom's written words travelled back to him, a testament to their enduring connection. The ache of separation fuelled their determination to reunite, to bridge the gap between them and weave the tapestry of their lives back together.

At the age of 16, Thomas's journey led him to Downton, a grand estate that bore both the weight of tradition and the splendour of aristocracy. There, Thomas's entrance marked the beginning of a new phase. Tall and strikingly handsome, with dark hair that framed his features and sharp blue eyes that held a depth of understanding, Thomas's appearance was as notable as his demeanour was reserved. He navigated the corridors and hallways with an air of detachment, an observer of the bustling life around him. Thomas had never been one to make friends easily, his solitary nature setting him apart from the other servants. It wasn't simply that he held himself aloof; it was also his secrets that cast a shadow over his interactions.

Thomas had received an unconventional education, one that went beyond the ordinary curriculum. Fluent in multiple languages, he could effortlessly transition from English to French, German, or Italian, not that he let anyone at Downton know this about him. His linguistic skills weren't just an impressive party trick; they were a tool he deftly employed. In his role as a servant, Thomas often found himself privy to conversations that weren't meant for his ears. The aristocrats and their guests, in a misguided attempt at secrecy, would engage in hushed exchanges in foreign languages. However, Thomas's sharp intellect and linguistic prowess meant that very little escaped his notice. He had become a repository of secrets, some mundane, some potentially scandalous. Yet, amid all these revelations, Thomas's own secrets remained tucked away.

His ability to glean hidden truths from whispered conversations was an asset, but it paled in comparison to the burdens he carried within. Among these burdens was the knowledge of his own lineage – the elusive Marquess of Donegal, a father who had never acknowledged him. Equally significant was Thomas's homosexuality, a truth that could have profound consequences if revealed in an era when such matters were taboo. This inner turmoil eclipsed the significance of the secrets he uncovered, serving as a constant reminder of the complex nature of his existence.

By the time Thomas had reached the age of 24, his dedication and hard work earned him the title of first footman. It wasn't the culmination of the ambitions he had once nurtured, but it was a steppingstone toward something more. Within the hallowed walls of Downton, Thomas played his role with precision, maintaining an air of professionalism even as his heart ached for his brother's presence. The intricate dance of aristocratic life unfolded around him, but he remained a solitary figure amidst the social pageantry.

The corridors that echoed with whispers of privilege and the grandeur of the aristocracy also concealed the isolation Thomas felt. He missed the warmth of his brother's companionship, the shared laughter, and the unspoken understanding that only siblings could provide. Downton offered a certain form of upward mobility, but it couldn't replace the absence of family. Amid the grandeur, Thomas found himself longing for the one connection that truly mattered, the link to his past and the beacon for his future – his brother Tom.

Tom, now 22, stood on the precipice of post-university life, an uncertain vista that stretched ahead of him. With his academic journey concluded, he found himself on the cusp of the real world, seeking a position that would allow him to apply his knowledge and forge his own path. Yet, despite his brilliance, his status as an illegitimate child cast a shadow over his prospects. The course he had devoted himself to, while intellectually fulfilling, seemed to offer limited avenues in the practical world.

Meanwhile, within the confines of Downton's opulent drawing room, the family's conversation flowed like a gentle stream, touching on matters both grand and mundane. Amid the polished decor and the air of privilege, Thomas, an enigma in his own right, listened intently. His keen ears caught the thread of dialogue that spoke of change – the retirement of the old chauffeur. As the words drifted toward him, he took a calculated step forward, positioning himself at the periphery of the conversation, his presence poised to be acknowledged.

A delicate cough, purposeful and respectful, escaped his lips, drawing Lord Grantham's attention. "Is there something you want to say, Thomas?" inquired the lord of the house, his gaze shifting to meet Thomas's blue eyes.

"There is indeed, my Lord," Thomas responded, his voice steady and measured. "I couldn't help but overhear that the chauffeur is retiring, and I have a recommendation for the position of a new chauffeur." His words held an air of anticipation, the undercurrent of an idea taking shape.

"A chauffeur?" The butler, Carson, interjected, his tone carrying a hint of annoyance at Thomas's intrusion. He stood as the guardian of propriety, ensuring the household's established order remained unchallenged.

"Yes, Mr. Carson," Thomas affirmed, his composure unwavering. "In fact, I have a younger brother who has worked as a chauffeur in the past. Very capable, my Lord," he added, addressing Lord Grantham with a conviction that was undeniable.

"Brother?" Lady Cora's voice carried a note of surprise. "I didn't know you had a brother."

"Oh yes, milady," Carson interjected once more, offering an insight into Thomas's world. Mr. Carson says, "Thomas receives two letters a week from his brother," he informed Lady Cora, as if unveiling a well-kept secret.

"Yes, my Lord, that's correct," Thomas affirmed, his gaze steady as he faced Lord Grantham. "He worked as a part-time chauffeur for the last six years, my Lord," he continued, revealing the pieces of a puzzle he had kept to himself.

"Why was he only working part-time?" Lord Grantham's inquiry reflected his curiosity, a sign that the family was gradually becoming drawn into Thomas's revelation.

This was the moment of truth, the juncture that revealed the essence of Tom's character. Thomas weighed his words with care, crafting an explanation that would paint an accurate portrait of his brother's aspirations and values. "Well, you see, my Lord," he began, his tone measured, "Tom was at university for the last four years and only worked weekends and between terms," he explained, his brother's pursuit of education serving as a backdrop to his unfolding narrative.

"Your brother went to university?" Lady Cora's incredulous exclamation encapsulated the surprise of the assembled family members, their eyes turning toward Thomas inquisitively.

"But why isn't he getting a job in the area he studied in?" Lord Grantham probed further, his curiosity a testament to his genuine interest in understanding Thomas's brothers' circumstances.

This was the crux of the matter, the challenge that defined Tom's predicament. "Well, my Lord," Thomas's voice carried a mixture of sympathy and honesty, "my brother is an idealist, not a pragmatist like me. I did try to get him to study something more practical, but he must have his own way."

"And what exactly did he study?" Lord Grantham's curiosity remained unquenched, prompting Thomas to reveal an aspect of his brother's education that carried a touch of embarrassment.

"He studied French revolutionary poetry from the 18th century, my Lord." Thomas's admission was tinged with a blush, revealing his brother's unique and unconventional academic pursuit.

"French poetry?" Lord Grantham echoed, his bemusement evident. "I can see how there wouldn't be many positions open for someone who's an expert in French poetry, Thomas."

"Exactly, my Lord," Thomas concurred, his agreement carrying a sense of understanding for the challenges his brother faced.

"I don't know, Thomas. It seems a bit unconventional. Does he have good references and recommendations?" Lord Grantham's questions revealed his willingness to consider the possibility, his openness a testament to his fair-mindedness.

"He does, my Lord," Thomas confirmed, his response punctuated by a glimmer of hope.

With the weight of uncertainty lifted, Lord Grantham made his decision known. "So, Thomas, if you get your brother to write, and if he does have good recommendations, I will think about hiring him."

The words were a lifeline, a bridge to a potential future that Thomas had hoped for. Relief coursed through him, evident in the sigh he released. "Thank you, my Lord," he conveyed, his gratitude sincere.

As the conversation reached its conclusion, Lady Cora shifted her attention to Thomas, a question lingering on her lips. "Oh Thomas, you never told us his name," she observed.

Thomas's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, a blend of embarrassment and emotion coloring his features. He cleared his throat, his voice firm as he revealed his brother's identity. "It's Tom Branson, my lady."

"By Jove!" Lord Grantham's exclamation encapsulated the sudden realisation. "Thomas, you have a brother called Tom? What was your mother thinking?"

The awkwardness of the moment was palpable, an unusual twist of fate that they were now grappling with. Thomas's gaze lowered, his eyes fixating on the carpet as he navigated the complexity of his brother's name.

"We don't share a mother, my Lord. We have the same father," Thomas explained, his words offering a perspective that defied traditional boundaries.

"Oh, right, I understand. It's a bit unusual, but we'll see." Lord Grantham's response was laden with a sense of understanding, a willingness to navigate the uncharted waters that Thomas's revelation had stirred.

With that, the chapter within the drawing room reached its conclusion. Thomas was granted the space to depart, his mission accomplished. The conversations of privilege and societal norms continued around him, a reminder of the world he existed within. As he exited the room, the weight of the Crawley family's gaze lingered on him, a mixture of curiosity, acceptance, and perhaps a hint of judgment.

Among them, Mr. Carson's disapproval was palpable. He represented the rigid confines of the past, a gatekeeper to tradition who viewed Thomas's actions through a narrow lens. He questioned Thomas's place within the Crawley family, a reflection of a society that often, valued bloodlines and legitimacy above all else. Thomas's actions were in defiance of that order, and he would have to contend with the consequences of his choices in the days to come.

My Dearest Tom,

I hope you're doing well. Listen, I've got something important to tell you. There's a job opening at Downton Abbey for a chauffeur. Yeah, you read that right. I put in a word for you, brother. They need someone capable, and I immediately thought of you.

You see, our old chauffeur is retiring, leaving a vacancy for the position. I overheard a conversation amongst the family and managed to put forward a recommendation for a new chauffeur. And who better to fill this role than you, my capable brother?

Tom, I implore you to seize this opportunity with both hands and not let it slip away. The role of a chauffeur holds opportunities. You will be in the company of the Crawley family, a position that carries with it both prestige and responsibility. Your knowledge and skills would be put to excellent use, driving for a distinguished household.

But above all, Tom, there's a prospect that warms my heart to its very core. You know how we've been separated for what feels like a lifetime? Well, this job could change that. We'd be in the same place, working together. It's been a decade, Tom. Ten years since we last saw each other regularly. I can't help but think about all those years lost, all the moments we missed out on. This job could be the thing that brings us back together.

Tom, my words may sound strong, but they come from a place of love and genuine belief in your potential. Do not underestimate yourself or the possibilities that lie ahead. Apply for this position with purpose and show them the qualities that make you uniquely you. Do not let this opportunity slip through your fingers; it's a steppingstone towards a future we both dream of.

Ten years apart is a long time, my brother, but it's a chapter that can be closed with this opportunity. So, here's what I want you to do. Apply for this job, Tom. Don't let it slip away. We might not have much in this world, but we've got each other. And we can make something out of that.

Write back soon and let me know what you're thinking. I'm hoping this could be a turning point for us.

Yours always,

Thomas

The much-anticipated day had dawned, and a sense of nervous excitement fluttered within Thomas as he prepared for his brother's arrival at Downton Abbey. Tom Branson, the younger half of their shared bond, was about to take his place among the staff. With anticipation brewing, Thomas paced the servants' hall, his normally reserved manner tinged with a touch of eagerness.

The arrangement had been meticulously set. Tom was to make his way to the servants' hall to collect his uniform from the hands of Mr. Carson, the ever-watchful butler. From there, Thomas would guide his brother to the chauffeur's cottage, where Tom could change and gather his bearings before the momentous introduction to the household.

As the door swung open to reveal Tom's presence, the tittering maids were a testament to his undeniable charm. Thomas stood there, a mixture of pride and disbelief on his face. He watched as his brother, tall and blond, with those unmistakable blue eyes, stepped into the hall. For a moment, Thomas's mind raced back to the image of a young boy of twelve, tearfully waving from a train station platform, and he marvelled at the transformation time had wrought.

With a smile that oozed warmth and friendliness, Tom's demeanour seemed to put everyone at ease. As he exchanged greetings with the staff, Thomas realized with a tinge of envy just how effortlessly likable his brother was. And though Tom might not be as tall as him, the thought brought a measure of comfort to Thomas – the elder brother should always stand taller, he believed.

Thomas wasted no time in introducing Tom to his new dwelling, the chauffeur's cottage. A fire had been kindled earlier, lending a cosy atmosphere to the place. Tea-making essentials were carefully laid out, a small but heartfelt gesture to welcome Tom to his new home. The brothers embraced, the years of separation melting away in that moment, as if they had never been apart.

In Tom's easy company, the hours seemed to fly by. Conversations flowed effortlessly, memories resurfaced, and their bond grew stronger. It was as if time had not cast its shadow on their relationship. Tom's charm and affability ensured that he found friends wherever he went, and Thomas couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at his brother's natural way with people.

Amid laughter and shared stories, the subject of Lord Grantham's daughters surfaced. Thomas's face took on a more serious expression as he cautioned his brother. "Just so you know, Tom, you better keep your distance from Lord Grantham's pretty daughters. I've got a position here, and I won't have anything jeopardize it."

Tom's laughter rippled through the room, a sound that seemed to resonate with familiarity. "Don't you worry, Thomas. I won't do anything to rock the boat. I've got no intention of messing up your position at Downton."

With that, the brothers shared a knowing smile, the unspoken understanding between them more profound than words could convey. As the day drew to a close and the sun dipped below the horizon, the chauffeur's cottage exuded a sense of warmth and camaraderie that had been missing for a decade. The two brothers were finally home – not just in place, but in each other's company.

The atmosphere in Downton's bustling servants hall shifted as the staff found themselves faced with a peculiar conundrum. Thomas and Tom, two brothers, peculiarly shared the same first name and not their last, but also had strikingly opposed colouring with dark haired Thomas and fair-haired Tom. The servants exchanged glances, a mixture of confusion and curiosity apparent in their expressions.

Daisy's voice broke through the silence, her innocent curiosity prevailing. "Why would two brothers have the same first name, though? It don't make sense."

Miss O'Brien, with her penchant for cruelty, seized the opportunity to stir the pot. "It's rather inconvenient, isn't it? Almost like someone's playing a joke on us." Her sardonic smile hinted at her intention to provoke.

Anna, who radiated kindness, chimed in, her voice tinged with understanding. "There must be a reason. Maybe it's a family tradition?"

The brothers exchanged a knowing look, understanding that the time had come to reveal the truth. Thomas cleared his throat, his gaze steady as he addressed the gathered staff. "The truth is, we both share the same father," he admitted, his words hanging heavy in the air.

A murmur of surprise rippled through the room, and Daisy's brow furrowed in thought. "But why would you have the same first name and a different last name?"

Tom took a deep breath, his expression a mix of resignation and candidness. "It's a bit complicated, you see. We're both illegitimate."

Miss O'Brien's lips curled into a mocking smile. "Illegitimate? Well, that explains the names, I suppose."

Thomas's patience waned, his voice firm as he addressed the unkind insinuation. "Our mothers weren't married to our father, if you must know. It's not something we chose, but it's how things turned out."

Carson's stern features remained unyielding, but a trace of sympathy crept into his eyes. "Illegitimacy can bring its own set of challenges," he remarked, acknowledging the difficulties that both brothers must have faced.

Anna's voice held compassion as she redirected the conversation. "But you both being here, working at Downton, that's something to be proud of."

Daisy, in her usual thoughtless manner, voiced her own perspective. "Seems like you've done alright for yourselves."

Tom's eyes softened as he regarded his brother. "We've had our share of challenges, but we've also been fortunate in many ways."

As the discussion shifted to Tom's education, Miss O'Brien's voice remained sharp. "And what were you thinking, studying something as daft as French poetry?"

Anna countered with a more empathetic perspective. "French poetry sounds quite romantic, doesn't it?"

Tom smiled, appreciating Anna's understanding. "Actually, I studied 18th century French revolutionary poetry. It wasn't about romance; it was about change, about making the world a better place. I intend to write, maybe for the newspapers", Thomas was at least pleased his brother had some practical idea as to what to do with esoteric education.

Carson's reaction was predictably disapproving, his loyalty to tradition unwavering. "Revolutionary poetry? My word, do you want to see the aristocracy's heads on pikes?"

Tom chuckled, aware of the contrast in their viewpoints. "No, Mr. Carson, nothing like that. Just a desire for a fairer world."

Thomas shifted uncomfortably, knowing that Tom's ideals could clash with Carson's beliefs. He hoped that Tom would tread carefully to avoid creating any rift.

Mrs. Hughes, a quiet observer, offered her subtle support for Tom. Her approving glance conveyed that she found merit in his perspective, even if her opinion remained unspoken.

William, with his gentle manner, interjected with a touch of hope. "With Tom here now, maybe Thomas won't be quite as unapproachable as he used to be."

As the conversation ebbed and flowed, the nuances of relationships and the challenges of being illegitimate unfurled. The brothers stood side by side, a united front against the tide of opinions. In this microcosm of society, a mixture of kindness, cruelty, and understanding converged, reflecting the complex web of life at Downton Abbey.

As the day drew to a close and the last embers of the fireplace flickered, Thomas retired to his room, a sense of contentment enveloping him. The events of the day had unfolded in unexpected ways, and yet, a feeling of quiet satisfaction settled over him. The moon cast a gentle glow through the window, illuminating his thoughts as he settled into bed.

Closing his eyes, Thomas's mind drifted back to the moments shared with his brother, Tom Branson. The awkwardness of their introduction, the varied reactions of the staff, and the discussions that followed seemed distant now. What remained was the warmth of companionship, the bond that had persisted despite the years of separation.

Golden Tom, as Thomas affectionately called his brother, had returned to his life. The realization that he was no longer alone, that someone truly understood him, brought a sense of solace that Thomas hadn't experienced in a long time. Tom's easy laughter, his unassuming manner, and his genuine camaraderie were like a balm to Thomas's soul.

As he lay there, Thomas allowed himself to feel the weight of the love that had endured through the years. In the dim light, memories resurfaced – the laughter of their childhood, the shared secrets, and the unspoken understanding that only siblings could share. Golden Tom had been the one constant in Thomas's tumultuous journey, a presence that had always given him a reason to hope.

With a smile tugging at the corners of his lips, Thomas drifted into a peaceful slumber. The worries and challenges of the day dissolved into the background, replaced by the comfort of knowing that he was no longer alone in this vast estate. As the night unfolded, his dreams were filled with images of two brothers, side by side, facing the world together – a bond that was unbreakable, a love that was unwavering.

The End

Note: Just a short story, my longer fic I am working on is proving to be much more stubborn than I hoped for, and I am hoping this little sidestep will help to unplug the drain of inspiration.

Note: I like Thomas fics (not as much as Tom B.), my favourite ones are where there was a slight change to Thomas's past that left him slightly less bitter and jaded. He would have a tough life in the early part of the 20th century, I thought a younger brother who would love him unconditionally, might help Thomas choose a less self-destructive pathway than he chose in Downton, and give him some happiness and success earlier in life.

Note: Again, if anyone feels inspired and would like to carry-on this story, please go ahead.