I'm home sick today so thought I'd edit this chapter and then post it early. Hope you enjoy!

Side note: There is talk of menstrual cycles in this chapter, the word disgusting is used to describe them. They are not disgusting in general, but as a woman I can say that in the practical since periods are gross to deal with.

Let me know what you think!

Chapter 13: 1897

Life went on. Elsie and Charles developed a routine over the last few mounts. They kept to themselves during the day, but were inseparable during the nights. They worked hard to maintain their cover. The couple worked together, but they did so in a strictly professional manner. Elsie could tell that no one was any the wiser. Even Clara did not mention anything. Either they were doing a fantastic job hiding, or the girl was too occupied with her upcoming wedding to notice anything different about the pair. She was the only one with any inkling at all that the couple existed and they wanted to keep it that way.

Timothy proposed about a month after the couple returned. Clara said yes and the bans were already read. The couple had decided to wait until February for their nuptials. Clara informed Elsie that her mother could not attend until that time, too busy taking care of her sister's children.

During their first few months as husband and wife, the couple learned much about the other. Elsie learned about Charles' unmoving opinion of who was appropriate to associate with the family. She thought him a bit snobbish when he disapproved of a lower station family joining the Abbey for a few dinners. He served them of course, but he complained once they were alone in their room after. She just shook her head and tried to abolish him, but to no outcome.

She also learned that he liked to obsessively clean the silver. He spent hours in the silver room, even staying there late into the night. She found him there a few times after everyone else was in their beds.

She learned about how he liked to dress. Which garment was put on first and then in what sequence. Men's clothing looked just as robust as women's. She learned that he needed to shave everyday and liked to do that in the morning. She loved his freshly saved smell and smooth cheeks when she kissed him good morning. He was an early riser. Awoke earlier than herself. It became their ritual for him to get up, shave for the day and then wake her. She truly appreciated her new alarm clock.

Charles was also learning new things about Elsie. How she pinned her hair and her routine for getting ready. He helped her string up her corset every morning, this in return ensured he became an expert at taking it off.

He noticed she did not have many dresses appropriate for a housekeeper. He asked her about it and learned her financial status prevented her from buying new clothing for herself. She was so generous towards her family. Giving all she could to insure their health and happiness. After that conversation Charles convinced her to let him pay. He learned more about her stubborn nature and the pride she had in taking care of others. He needed to reassure her multiple times that it was okay for him to take care of her and provide for her. It took many nights and discussions before she relented and purchased a few new gowns.

He learned that she was a neat person. Everything had its place and it drove her crazy when she couldn't find something or had to pick something up that was not in its rightful place. He was also a neat person, but Elsie seemed to take it to the extreme. They had a few arguments so far because of this new discovery. He learned that their combined stubbornness drove the other crazy.

The most daunting thing he learned was about women's monthly periods. He had no inkling that they existed before her. He was quite miffed one night about a week and a half after their return when she refused his advances. He had been thinking about her all day. So when she refused him, he was rather shocked. So far she had been eager to make love almost every night. Had she gone off him? Insecurity rose and he demanded an explanation.

Elsie did not take kindly to his demands and address him up one side and down the other. Reprimanding his inconsiderateness and tearing up after she stopped. Charles was bewildered, but decided to apologize immediately. Later as they laid in bed, he questioned her again. This time in a softer, more understanding tone. She plainly stated that she started her period and relations at that time were not permitted.

Charles was even more confused and asked her to explain further. That's when he learned all about how women have monthly periods.

It was astonishing, he had no clue women had to deal with this each month. He was discovering that women keep many things hidden. For this messy and disgusting, in his opinion, occurrence to happen every month without men like himself knowing was truly astonishing. He was amazed at the lengths his wife went to keep everything tidy and sanitary.

He also learned from her that because of this occurrence it meant she was not pregnant. Something he was eternally grateful for.

All in all the couple learned to coexist together. Their union made their days much happier, knowing they had each other. They had a confidant, a lover, and just a partner to always rely on. Both smiled more and their work improved too. Both were more relaxed and confident with their place within their world.

1897

Elsie's Birthday passed and then the couple spent their first Christmas together in relative peace. As always the family hosted a grand dinner and ball. Elsie stayed busy planning and orchestrating everything alongside Lady Grantham and Lady Cora. She felt she was spending more time with the younger women. Cora was taking up more responsibilities within the family. Elsie surmised she was done having children and now that she was not pregnant, she had more time to contribute to social endeavors. Elsie did not mind, but juggling the instructions and ideas of the two was tiring. They had such contrasting outlooks sometimes and pulled Elise in many different directions. She found herself mediating between the two often.

Charles upheld his butler persona to perfection and remained busy taking care of the family. He took pride within his position. He kept their secrets and was a listening ear if ever they needed one. Robert Crawley had been stepping up as of late as well. Taking more change into learning more about the estate and working alongside his father.

He spoke more to Charles and they conversed more as of late. Robert asked Charles' opinion more often and took his words into consideration about various things. Charles could not help but feel more important because of this new development. More jovial.

He did worry this meant Lord Grantham's health was in question. Why else would Robert Crawley step up in this way? Charles observed that Load Grantham did look more rundown. Unfortunately there was not much he could do besides helping the family in any way he could.

The best part of his day was snuggling into bed with his wife after a long day. He would draw her into his arms and take in her delightful scent. Her presents grounded him. He could express his worry to her and she would listen. She would then acknowledge his words and do her best to reassure him. He did the same for her. He loved their time together. Whether it was making love or just discussing their days. This in his opinion was the best part of marriage. He couldn't imagine life without her.

The pair got through the Servants Ball and then New Years. They went back to everyday life after the holidays and soon found themselves getting ready for Clara's wedding service. It was the second Saturday in February and the past week had been bittersweet. Clara would no longer reside or work at Downton Abbey after today. She would move in with her husband and help around the shop he just opened.

Elsie was sad her friend would be leaving. She would miss their morning conversation while at breakfast and her kind listening ear. She was also very happy for her, hoping her marriage would be just as satisfying as her own.

Elsie and Charles were getting ready. Dressing in their Sunday best.

"Charles, can you help me with this?" Elsie said, holding up the pearl necklace he gifted her.

Charles took the necklace and she turned around. He secured it gently and placed a kiss behind her ear. He nuzzled his face into her neck further and brought his hands to her waist, indicating for her to stay in place.

"You smell divine, my wife" He murmured into her ear before turning her around to face him. He gathered her to him and kissed her.

"Ummmmm" Elsie moaned. Loving the attention and his closeness. She stopped herself from running her fingers through his freshly pomaded hair. Instead she rested her hands on his shoulders and squeezed his arms until her hands met his.

Holding hands the couple stood in contentment.

"This is our first wedding together as a married couple," Elsie noted.

Charles nodded "Thank goodness we always sit together for church services."

"Charles, we stand and sit together for everything." Elsie stated.

"Yes, the privilege of being heads of staff," he acknowledged with happiness.

Elsie smiled, she liked that privilege indeed.

"We better get going Mr. Carson."

"After you Mrs. Carson" placing a hand on her lower back, he guided her to her door. She waited before opening the door, Charles turned and made his way to the other room and exited through his door. She then exited hers. Both well-organized in the routine of keeping their relationship a secret.

The ceremony was beautiful. Clara looked radiant and the groom looked ready to burst as she walked down the aisle. The couple exchanged vows and their merriment was obvious. Happiness radiated around the small church.

Elsie was happy to have her husband at her side. He brought her so much comfort. She could feel his love, just from his presents beside her. That did not stop her thoughts of jealousy. Clara was able to share her love and marriage out in the open. Elsie would have loved a public ceremony with friends and family. To receive best wishes and congratulations. But that was never to be.

Instead the couple must always be aware of their surroundings and conduct themselves in a professional manner. She thought it was tiring.

She felt Charles gaze upon her. She tilted her head towards him. He gave her a small smile. In that instant she felt better. Knew she didn't need all the fanfare to be happy. Just him.

Elsie gave him a small smile in return and moved her focus upon the newly married couple.

A week later Elsie found herself helping Clara organize her new dwelling. Clara and Tim had been away to London for their honeymoon and had just arrived home a few hours ago. It was preplanned for Elsie to help Clara organize. Her parting gift to the former head housemaid.

The women were putting up new curtains. A soft yellow design with delicate paisley detail. Elsie was standing on a ladder, while Clara put the curtains on the next hanger and Elsie was putting the last pair in their place above one window.

They worked in contented silence until Clara asked "Have you found a new housemaid?"

"No not yet, you know Sofia has moved into the head housemaid position. She is doing a fine job. I do have a few interviews next week." Elsie said while straightening out the curtain.

"Why do you ask? Bored yet?" Elsie teased.

When Elsie heard no reply, she stopped her fiddling and turned to her friend. She was surprised to see tears in her eyes and a worried expression.

Elsie rushed down the ladder and held her friend by her shoulders "What ever is the matter?"

Clara was shaking, tears running down her face. Elsie guided her to the couch and they sat down.

"Clara talk to me, I can't help you if you don't tell me what's wrong." She clasped her friends hands in a comforting manner. Rubbing her knuckles with her thumb.

"It's different now Elsie. He hardly spoke to me today. He left right after we got home. Just went for a walk."

"He probably wanted to leave us alone, knowing I was coming to help today." Elsie suggested.

"No, it's been this way for a few days."

"What happened Clara?" Truly concerned now. "He was not rough with you, right?"

"What?" Clara shook her head. "No, not at all."

"Well" Elsie prompted, holding her breath in anticipation.

"I'm pregnant, Elsie. And I'm afraid Tim is not happy about it."

Elsie looked at her with confusion and astonishment. "How can you possibly know so soon?"

Clara gave her an embarrassed look.

"Oh, I see." Elsie said, realizing her look. How did she miss that?

"It was just a couple times," Clara rushed.

Elsie rained in her disappointment and said "Congratulations" and squeezed her hand.

"Thank you, Elsie. What am I to do about Tim?" she continued "I don't understand why he is so distressed. It's not like he has to carry the child."

"What did he say when you told him?"

"Nothing!" Clara exclaimed. "He just stood before me with a stricken look and walked away. He did not return until late at night. He smelt terrible of drink. Then he ignored me for the remainder of our stay. Has not touched me since." Clara was trembling. Elsie could not tell if it was from sadness or anger.

Elsie had no words for her friend. What an awful reaction to happy news.

"What do I do Elsie? He clearly no longer wants me. How am I to do this alone?" Clara started to cry in earnest. Elsie drew her friend into her arms and started to stroke her back.

"There, There. It's probably just the shock, Clara. It's a lot of change in a short time."

"Don't I know it!" Clara cried.

Times would be tough for her friend if her husband did not step up and realize his folly. She could hardly believe sweet Tim was acting in such a way. Yes it was fast, but it was a blessing. She thought of her own husband at that moment. Sure, he would not be happy if she fell pregnant, but she knew he would not abandon her.

"He has not abandoned you, correct?"Elsie was now rocking her.

"I don't know." Clara cried. Blubbering at this point.

Just as Elsie was about to reply, she heard the front door open. And a few moments later she saw Tim standing in the doorway. His eyes widened at the sight of his bride and her friend.

He quickly moved towards them, hands out in a calming sign, "Clara, what's happened?"

Clara moved her head from Elsie's shoulder and looked to her husband "You don't want a baby," she stated with a shaky voice.

"Oh Darling" Tim said, moving to gather Clara into his own arms.

Elsie decided that was her queue to go. She stood and made her way to gather for outerwear.

Before she turned the handle to the front door she heard "I'm not upset about the baby, I'm just scared Clara."

She waited a moment more, wanting to hear her friends reply. "I'm scared too, you know."Clara took a sharp inhale "But we are in this together and if you ever keep me in the dark like that again there will be major consequences!"

Elsie shook her head and smirked at her friend's replay, then left. Satisfied that Clara was not alone.

Elsie and Charles were entwined together on the floor after an intense bout of lovemaking. Both had recovered and were enjoying being within the others arms. Her head was upon his chest and his arm was wrapped around her shoulders, rubbing the outside of her arm.

"How was your halfday?" Charles said in a gruff tone. She knew he was upset because she didn't take hers on the same day as his. Something they did often.

"Oh Charles, don't be like that. You know she asked for my help weeks ago," she patted his chest. She smirked, happy that he wanted to spend all his free time with her.

Charles grunted as a relay, but moved to kiss her head.

"Clara's pregnant," Elsie stated.

Charles stiffened, not prepared for that response.

"Apparently she and Tim spent some uninterrupted time together before the wedding."

"Ahhh, I did wonder about the timing."

"Yes well, must not have done a very good job looking after my girls, huh." Elsie said in a disappointed manner. Mostly towards herself.

"We can't know everything, my love. All we can do is uphold standards and sack the bad eggs."

"Well then, we should be stacked." She laughed.

Charles grunted again. Not liking the comparison. "We were married before any intimate moments," he stated.

"Yes, but we are living a secret Charles. If what we are doing is appropriate then we would not need to live in the shadows." Elsie said in a sad tone.

He pulled her closer "I know that, love. "

"I know, I just sometimes wish we didn't need to hide. I love you and don't want to pretend that I don't"

"I understand Elsie, but what is there to do? Leave?"

"No, we won't leave, I'm just speaking my mind Charles. Letting you know how I feel."

"I understand, dear," he repeated.

"I'd like to tell Clara about us." Elsie ventured.

"Elsie" Charles signed.

"She already knows some, it would be nice to have someone to talk to Charles." She felt him about to protest, he drew in a breath and was about to speak when she said "Someone not my husband. She lives outside of these walls now and can keep a secret."

"And what of her husband? You know she will tell him."

"Charles, it might be nice to have a couple we can visit. Have tea, maybe dinner on our half days."

Charles grunted and she rubbed his chest.

"And what if one of them tells someone in the village? We would most definitely be scandalized. I don't even what to imagine it."

"Charles, they are good people. I'll express the importance of our union remaining a secret. Please let me tell someone. I need this." Elsie pleaded.

"I suppose, dear" Charles untangled himself from her and helped her to her feet.

They worked together to put their bed together and climbed in.

Charles drew her to his chest once more and kissed her hair.

"Friends would be nice" he muttered into her neck. Elsie could not help but grin at his admission. She snuggled more into his embrace and closed her eyes.