Here is another long chapter. Warning for Sexual harassment.

Please let me know your thoughts and enjoy.

Chapter 15: Summer

About a month later Elsie found herself sitting in Clara's little sitting room. They were enjoying another visit, sharing household news and sipping tea. Clara was showing now, Elsie thought she glowed with happiness. Married life suited her friend. Thinking about married life, Elsie thought it would be a good time to share her secret.

"Clara, I wanted to tell you something." Elsie placed her teacup on the coffee table and looked at her friend. Clara gave her a kind questioning look and nodded her head to continue.

Elsie cleared her throat "You see… Well," she didn't know how to start. Clara looked even more puzzled from her friend's inability to start.

"Do you remember our conversation about knowing if you are in love?"

"Yes"

"And you inferred that I love Mr. Carson."

Clara nodded and chuckled, "You were somewhat transparent."

"Yes, well, he returns my feelings and we married." Elsie decided to just come out with it.

"What!" Clara slammed her teacup onto the coffee table and stood. She walked to the same couch Elsie was sitting on and took a seat next to her. Clara grabbed her hands and pulled her to turn towards herself.

"When did this happen? Does the family know? …No they couldn't, the whole village would know if so."

Elsie nodded along with Clara's last statement, "We married in Thirsk this past August. And no, nobody knows. We live in secret."

"How do you manage that?" Clara said thinking about the technical aspect of being married and how one needed to coincide with their husband for a fulfilling one.

"We have established rules and a routine."

"Yes, but how do you manage the fun bits?" Clara said with a smirk and a squeeze to Elsie's hands.

"Clara!" Elsie exclaimed, her cheeks filled with heat. She was certainly not accustomed to talking about such things with others.

"Well, bullocks, I'm curious."

"It was actually you who made it possible for us to be together. Remember that key you found? Well it unlocks the door between our rooms."

"Awww, well praise be to good ol Shakspear. I did wonder why you both were so interested when I mentioned the key"

Elsie laughed. "Yes, he has been a lifesaver. And so have you. I can't thank ye enough." Clara smiled wider, then it turned devilish.

"How do you find it?"

Elsie was brought out of her thoughts "How do I find What?"

"You know," Clara said, wiggling her brows.

Elsie laughed a little embarrassingly and said "All aspects of my marriage are satisfactory and that is all I'm going to say!"

Seeing her friend's nervous reaction Clara relented and said "Fine, Fine. Someday I'll get some statement of how Mr. Carson is within the sheets"

"Clara!" Elsie burst out.

Her friend laughed, but changed the subject "I'm surprised Mr. Carson was okay with you telling me. Or just marriage in general." The last part she somewhat muttered.

"It took some convincing, but I expressed to him that it would be nice to have friends that knew of our true existence." Elsie then addressed Clara's last statement "He actually made all the plans for us marrying."

"Yes. It must be hard to keep your secret constantly."

"It is. That's why it would be nice to visit you and Tim as ourselves. Where we can enjoy the company of another married couple."

"You certainly can. We can arrange tea or dinner. It would be nice."

"Yes and I have suggested to Mr. Carson that we plan on taking a half day to join you two."

"This is splendid, I am so happy for you Elsie!" Clara said in excitement.

"Thank you," Elsie said softly. Somewhat overwhelmed that someone finally knew about herself and Charles. She was truly happy to have her friends' support.

Clara released her hands and said "Will you help me organize some baby clothes? Maybe help me sew up a few?"

Elsie smiled at her friend, "I'd be happy too."

The summer of 1897 was upon Downton and the family were once again getting ready to depart for the London season.

Elsie and Charles worked tirelessly to bring everything together. Working to finalize inventory books, organizing travel trunks, and determining staff assignments. They stayed busy not only to do their jobs, but also to distract from the fact they would be away from each other for months.

Charles had been a bit more short with the staff. Demanding perfection and having tasks redone if even the smallest imperfection was discovered. At night he was very attentive and constantly touching her. Elsie didn't mind too much, she was going to miss him terribly and relished his showering of love.

They made love every night the week before his departure. So much so, she was more sore than normal.

Elsie organized all staff to bid the family goodbye. The staff that were remaining at Downton were lined up. The family were starting to get into their assigned carriages. Charles was standing by the Abbey entrance, awaiting for everyone to be secured before getting into the carriage assigned to staff.

She felt him gaze at her a few times, she understood from his attention that he was thinking about their time apart. The couple had woken up earlier than normal to give each other a proper goodbye. Their lovemaking was slow and drawn out. Elsie thought it a wonderful way to start such a trying and upsetting day.

Now she stood as an example of family loyalty, setting the standard for the staff beside her. She observed the following proceedings. Lord and Lady Grantham were the last to exit the house. Lord Grantham was moving more slowly recently and the couple took their time in reaching their carriage.

Charles fell into step behind the couple, once they were situated he looked upon the remaining staff and nodded his head in acknowledgment. He then met eyes with Elsie and inclined his head in a small showing of goodbye. She nodded back and watched him climb into the last carriage.

Once all carriages were out of sight she instructed everyone to go inside and get back to their work.

Elsie had the same plans as last summer. Well not quite the same plans. The house would get a thorough cleaning and rooms would be covered until the family's return. She planned on a trip to Scotland. She was leaving in two weeks time and would be gone for 6 days. She had much to do and hoped to be distracted from too much thinking, especially about her husband's absence.

Charles was also trying to stay busy. The trip to London had gone smoothly. The girls were lively, even little Sybil. She was toddling around now. He noticed several instances where Nanny was chasing after the little girl. She was a curious little thing and liked to climb upon any furniture within her reach.

The family was more social this year, already committed to attending many parties. They would even host a few grand dinners. Personally he was happy for the extra work.

He loved the grandness of his occupation. The style and putting on a well organized dinner. He didn't mind the late nights or serving numerous guests. He liked the distraction and how tired he was after a long day. He had less time to think about missing his wife.

One of the first tasks he wanted to accomplish was evaluating the status of the London house cellar. Perhaps order a few cases if they were needed. He had a feeling that they would.

Elsie was very pleased to be in Scotland once more. She had arrived the day before after a tiring day of travel. Her welcome was joyous. Her mother was looking relatively well. Becky was her usual standoffish self, but didn't act out in any way.

The house was looking tidy and taken care of. She was pleased with the part time maid, she was obviously doing a world of good for her family. Her mother looked less stressed, but her figure looked the same. She was still thin and pale. Sickly in appearance, but her expression was brighter.

Elsie felt entirely pleased that her plan worked and they were better cared for.

Elsie and her mother were currently enjoying tea and some pastries. Becky was seated in the same room, but was occupied with some paper and drawing utensils.

"I'm glad you're home, mo leanbh."

Elsie smiled and took a sip of her tea.

"How have you been finding married life?" Her mother gave her a mischievous smile. Teasing her daughter, but also wanting to truly know. She knew some from their many letters, but wanted to see her daughter's mannerisms in person to gauge her true feelings.

"We are very happy." She informed her mother and smiled a little.

"That's nice to hear." Her mother took a sip of her own tea and then asked "So no one has discovered your secret?"

"No, well no-one in the Abbey knows. I have confided in one friend, she lives in the village."

Her mother raised a brow.

"Don't worry, she is trustworthy," Elsie reassured.

Her mother didn't say a word. Trusting her daughter's intuition.

Elsie finished her tea and placed the empty cup on the coffee table. She looked around the room again and admired how well everything looked.

"I know I have said before, but I am grateful for the girl you hired. She does good work."

"I can see that and I'm happy she is working out."

"She is even good with Becky, she has entertained her a few times while I was out."

"Out?"

"Yes, to the doctor or doing something in the village."

"And what has the Doctor been saying recently?" Elsie prodded gently.

Her mother took a deep breath "The same Elsie, nothing had improved, but not much has changed either. I feel as if I'm in limbo." She frowned and looked down into her cup.

Elsie moved closer to her side and brought her into a side hug. She placed her head upon her mother's shoulder and rubbed the outside of her arm.

She felt her mother stroke her hair, feeling her mother's appreciation from her comfort, Elsie smiled. Elsie basked in her mother's attention and love. Not knowing how long she would have it.

Elsie had a wonderful time, but all too soon it was time to travel back. Her time with her family was more relaxed this time. Elsie didn't need to help with overdue chores or help organize around the house. Everything was in order. Her mother and Becky seemed happier and this instilled great joy within Elsie.

They caught up with the happenings of each other's lives and had many enjoyable conversations.

Becky had a few episodes of expressing her jealousy. Not happy Elsie was taking up some of their mother's attention. Their mother stepped in everytime and calmed her sister down. Altogether she was somewhat pleasant.

Elsie reflected on her visit during the train ride. Soon enough her thoughts drifted to Charles. She wondered about his time in London. Was he having a good time? She imagined he was rather busy.

She had not received a letter before she left. She was excited to return and see if one awaited her. She assumed there would be. Three weeks away from each other was the longest they had been apart since marrying.

Elsie took a book out of her travel bag, deciding to immerse herself in her current read. Hoping time would move faster.

Elsie was glad it was a beautiful day, for she needed to walk to the Abbey from the station. There were no carts available and she needed to arrange for her luggage to be delivered to the house.

She enjoyed her last few moments alone along the walk, knowing once she arrived her attention would be pulled in many directions.

She met the gravel of the drive and made her way towards the servants entrance. Once inside she made her way to the kitchen, wanting an update from the cook.

She could smell luncheon when she entered. Her stomach growled, reminding her that she had not eaten since early morning and that was just a small pastry.

Mrs. Evans was hard at work, stirring the servants meal.

"Hello, Mrs. Evans." Elsie said, trying not to startle the woman.

The cook didn't jump, but she did whirl around at the sound of her voice.

"Mrs. Hughes! Welcome back and good timing," nodding her head towards the large pot.

"Yes, that smells divine," Elsie placed her bag down and moved further into the kitchen.

"How has the past week been?"

"Oh, nothing new here. Surprisingly everyone has been on their best behavior. I think the maids have learned not to slack off while you're away." The cook gave her a pleased smirk.

Elsie chuckled softly, pleased indeed that her maids took her instructions and command to heart.

"Well I'll let you get on." Elsie inclined her head, collected her bag, and then moved towards her pantry.

Elsie smiled when she noticed a stack of envelopes upon her desk. She moved swiftly and gathered the pile. She shifted through invoices and inquiries until she found what she was looking for.

She grabbed her paper knife and swiftly opened his letter.

"Dear Mrs. Hughes,

I only address you this way because I want to remind you that letters exchanged between us need to be set aflame or hidden. I know my dear wife has the cleverest of minds and probably already has a designated spot. Must be a good one as her husband does not have a clue as to its whereabouts.

How have you been my love? I have missed you terribly. London has been very busy. Already the family has hosted a dinner. It was a long night. I had to escort a rowdy guest into his carriage. People can be so uncivilized.

Lord Grantham has been absent from the house more than usual. I'm afraid he has visited a few Doctors while we are here. This is just an assumption, but he has not looked well as of late.

How was your visit to Scotland? Again I'm sorry we could not coordinate time to go together. I hope you know I want to meet your family. I also want to see where you grew up. It's strange that I have never been to Scotland. Someday we will change that.

Let me know how you are darling.

Yours,

Charles"

Elsie smiled down at his letter. He was such a sweet man. She would indeed take him to Scotland someday. She would be very happy for him to meet her mother. She could not lie and say she was not nervous about him meeting Becky.

She shook her head at that thought and proceeded to shuffle around her desk. She pulled out a sheet of stationary and dipped the pen in the inkwell, then started her reply.

"My dearest Husband,

I know you have a good hiding spot, so I'll not even mention the need to hide our correspondence. Well I guess I just did!

I'm doing well, my love. Missing you terribly. My visit to Scotland was actually good. Mother and Becky are doing well. The services we provide are working out amazingly. Mother looked the same, but her eyes were brighter. I'm afraid she still looks rather sickly, but the maid has been helping her out tremendously.

I know you are very busy, but please find time to yourself. Don't overwork Charles. You will be happy to hear that everyone is remaining rather productive, even during our absences.

Well I just got back my love and have much to do. So, I'll end this here.

All my love,

Elsie"

Elsie put her pen down and picked the letter up to wave around in the air. Once dried she packed it away in an envelope. She would drop it in the box later. Elsie stood, she wanted to make her way back to the kitchen and check the status of felt absolutely famished and could not think of anything other than the growling coming from her stomach.

Later that afternoon Elsie was again seated at her desk, this time hard at work going over and updating the books.

She was distracted from a few sums she was going over by a knock at her door.

"Come in," she bid, still focusing on her work.

Sofia walked in "We have a bit of a situation upstairs Mrs. Hughes."

Elsie turned in her seat at this news and looked towards the maid. Elsie's confusion grew when she noticed the strained look upon the young woman's face.

Elsie gestured for her to elaborate with a wave of the hand.

"Mr. Crawley has arrived unexpectedly. He's in the library now. Seems he made a stop here before joining the family in London." Sofia bit her lip.

Elsie sat stunned still for a moment. Definitely not expecting a visitor while the family was away. Horrified by who the guest was. Her stomach dropped and she regretted the amount of food she consumed during luncheon. Her meal now felt like a great weight seated in her stomach, she felt sick.

"Do you know what he wants?" Elsie finally replied.

"He has not said, just started making orders and demanded tea in the Library."

"That part is not surprising," dread filling her tone.

"He has asked for you." Sofia reluctantly confessed.

Elsie nodded, she had a feeling he would search her out. Why not order her presents? He was the only senior member of the family currently in the house, even if he was a guest.

She looked down at herself. She hasn't changed out of her travel clothes since arriving. She figures the staff would not mind and she didn't want to change if there was no need. She regretted that decision now.

She stood from her seat and smoothed her hands down her skirt.

"I suppose I better go up," Elsie sighed. Her thoughts were scattered, thinking about how best to handle this situation.

"I think it best I accompany you," Sofia stated, shifting from one foot to the other. Elsie detected her nerves, something she shared.

"No, that would be a bit suspicious and we don't want to let on that he makes us uncomfortable." Elsie thought for a moment and then said "go seek Benjamin and ask him to join me in the Library. Have him stand in as if serving the room and I'll go in after him. Actually have him bring up tea and just stay in the room. That would look less suspicious." She knew she was rambling, but nodded her head at her own plan.

Benjamin was the oldest of the remaining hall boys. He was a tall and kind boy. She thought it a strategic move to have at least someone in the room with her. Benjamin was her best option.

Sofia nodded and left to find the boy.

Elsie made her way up the servants stairwell and waited for Sofia on the main floor landing. She only had a few moments to gather her nerves. She wiggled her hands together and paced the small landing. She very much wished that Charles was here. He could not step in if needed, although she figured he might if things became out of hand,but his presents would solidify her nerves.

She heard footsteps approaching the stairwell door and Sofia stepped through.

"Benjamin is in place and tea has been served."

"Good, good," Elsie said aloud, still moving around nervously. She wiped her sweaty hands on her skirt and looked up at Sofia. She appreciated the maids' kind understanding eyes. Sofia was turning into a true support.

Elsie nodded once more to the maid and raised her chin in preparation.

Elsie made her way to the Library and walked through the entryway. Her first observation was of James Crawley sitting on one of the couches sipping tea. He looked as handsome as ever. Hardly showing any signs of fatigue or untidiness from his travels. Elsie's eyes moved around the room and released a breath when she noticed Benjamin in the corner. She knew Sofia would come through, but it was a relief regardless.

"You asked for me Mr. Crawley," Elsie stated, standing tall. Trying to appear unbothered.

James Crawley looked up from his tea and smiled when his eyes met hers. He looked her up and down. Elsie felt very exposed and shuttered slightly.

He stood from his seat and placed his teacup on the coffee table. He walked closer to her, until he stood a few feet in front of her.

"You look very well Mrs. Hughes, the summer months suit you," his eyes were gleaming.

Elsie almost took a step back, but thought better of it and stood her ground. From the corner of her eye she saw Benjamin lift an eyebrow. His face was pinched and he looked rather confused. This situation would seem suspicious to the hall boy. A member of the family giving such a complement to a servant was unheard of. Perhaps it was not such a good idea to instruct him here. He was rather young and might not understand that she did not want Mr. Crawley's attention.

"How may I help you Mr. Crawley?"

"Lord Grantham needed a few items that were forgotten. I volunteered to grab them before going to London."

"That's kind of you, do you need help finding what he needs?" She could see through his excuse, the staff were very efficient in packing. It was unlikely something so important would be left behind.

"Yes I need someone to show me around and since you are the senior servant I'd like you to help," He continued to smile at her.

Elsie was trying to determine the best course of action. Should she refuse or help? If she helped he could be on his way, but she could also be walking into a trap. Her gut was telling her not to proceed, but he may refuse to leave or come up with something else if she didn't cooperate.

"Come along , the sooner I get what I came for, the sooner I can make my way to London."

He didn't give her time to reply. She was starting to get frustrated with herself, the inability to control the situation when around him was irritating. Unfortunately he had the ability to muddle her mind. He started to walk towards the family staircase and she followed. Not having much of a choice. Elsie nodded to Benjamin, giving him a subtle gesture that he was not needed any further. She then walked out of the Library and followed Mr. Crawley.

Elsie showed him to Lord Grantham's bedroom and then tried to excuse herself. She offered for one of the hall boys to help, but he insisted that he wanted her.

She stood within the Lords bedroom watching Mr. Crawley search around. He had yet to tell her what the important items were. She was focusing on his movements. Trying to predict his next move.

"I'm unable to find it over here," he walked across the room towards her "perhaps it's in his nightstand." He indicated with his head behind her as she was standing beside the bed and in front of the side table.

He lifted his arms towards her and she froze. He placed his hands on her shoulder and moved her to the side. He removed his hands and proceeded with his search.

Elsie took a breath and she noticed him giving her a side look, a small smirk upon his lips. Dread filled her, he knew the effect he had on her.

"You okay there Mrs. Hughes?"

She shook herself slightly and replied "Yes, Yes. Now please tell me what Lord Grantham is in need of and I can help you search."

He stood from his position and faced her.

"You are so very kind Mrs. Hughes, that's what I like about you. You're very pleasant to be around." He moved more into her space and looked down upon her.

Elsie was trying to ignore his gaze, she stared at the painting hanging on the wall just behind him.

"Have you thought about our last encounter?"

Elsie stayed silent.

"The offer still stands, your position here would be very secure if you agreed. I have opinions that my uncle listens to. It would be such a disappointment if he dismissed you. Not catering to guest requests, refusing, it's a fire-able offence." He moved his arms to rub hers. He held her in place again. Trying to catch her eyes, get a response out of her.

Elsie's pulse sped up. She didn't know how much influence he carried with Lord Grantham. She did know that she didn't want to lose this position.

When he didn't get one he said "How would you support your mother and sister." That got the intended response. Elsie sharply looked up into his eyes. Disbelief filled her gaze.

"Yes I know that you rely on this position to take care of them. You see, I did some research into you Elsie." He stroked her cheek. He enjoyed the scared look in her eyes.

Elsie was petrified now, how much did he know about her? Did he find evidence of her marriage?

"So you see, we can help each other. You keep your position and I get what I came for." He smiled at her, infinitely happy that his plan looked to be succeeding. Her facial expression suggested that his way of persuasion was working. How could she possibly refuse his advances now.

Elsie tried to step out of his reach, but he squeezed her upper arm and pressed his palm harder into her jaw.

"Why are you so interested in me?" Elsie finally uttered.

Mr. Crawley smiled at the sound of her voice. "You're an attractive woman, Elsie Hughes. Fresh for the plucking, but also a challenge to conquer." He started stroking her cheek again and maneuvered her closer to him.

Elsie's mind was buzzing, trying to think and also keep him occupied so he would not go further in his plans. She knew his threads were genuine. How was she to refuse and keep her job? At least she knew that he didn't suspect her marital status. He thought her innocent, perhaps that explained some of the draw. She had to keep him talking, maybe someone would come looking for her.

"Your alluring in regular clothing. It's nice not seeing you in black." He moved his arm around her back, moving his hands along her body. His hand inched to her buttock and squeezed her closer.

Elsie's body shuttered involuntarily and his expression turned predatory. A pleased grin was situated on his face, mistaking her reaction as a sign of pleasure.

"Perhaps we should go to a different room?" Elsie suggested, a plan started to form within her mind.

"Ahhh I knew you would see it my way soon enough." He said against her ear and then placed a kiss along the upper part of her neck. Elsie wiggled in his grasp and tried to turn her head.

"Hard not to when you threaten the livelihood of my family." There was a hardness present in her tone.

She felt him smirk against her neck.

"There is the fire I enjoy so much. Yes, I like your plan. Let's find a different room and you can guide the way. Alas, you know this Abbey more than I." He physically turned her around and pushed her towards the door.

Once in the hallway his hands left her body. Trying to remain calm Elsie started walking down the hall in the direction of the empty guest rooms. They passed several bedrooms along the gallery. Suddenly Elsie sprang forward and pulled one of the doors open and hurried through the doorway slamming it behind her. He was right; she did know this house and he had given her the perfect opportunity to escape.

She escaped into one of the many servants' stairways. She stayed in place and held the door shut. Knowing he would not make too much of a scene, she heard and felt him pound on the door a few times.

"You will regret this Elsie," he said after a moment of his physical protest. She could feel his anger, even through the door. She stayed in place until she heard footsteps making their way down the hallway. Even then she stayed for another 10 or so minutes. She took deep breaths and tried to calm herself. Her heart was practically jumping out of her chest.

She didn't have a fear that he would find his way to her location. The abbey's servants' passage ways were vast and confusing if one was not used to the house. She took her time. Making sure he was away and that she was presentable when she made her way downstairs.

Elsie eventually made her way down to the kitchen. She would be safe there, even if he made his way down there. People were always working and puttering about in the kitchen.

She was very observant as she made her way down. Looking around every corner and focusing on what she heard around her.

She decided a cup of tea was desperately needed and asked one of the kitchen maids for a cup. She sipped on it slowly and relished the feeling of the hot cup within her palms. She let the warmth bring her back into the present. She tried to think about something besides Mr. Crawley's advances and threats. Unfortunately she could not clear her mind. She needed a plan.

She needed to inform Lady Grantham.

She needed to tell Charles.

If she was sacked, Charles would definitely need to be in the know. She was a practical woman and knew this to be a fact.

She was distracted from her thoughts when someone cleared their throat behind her. Elsie froze, fearing Mr. Crawley had come searching for her.

She slowly turned around and released a breath when she noticed Benjamin in the doorway.

He raised an eyebrow in her direction, clearly taking notice of her reaction.

"Sorry to disturb you Mrs. Hughes, but I wanted to inform you that Mr. Crawley left a bit ago."

Elsie's shoulders dropped in relief. She could not help her physical reaction to the news.

Benjamin continued in a timid tone, noticing the housekeeper's body language "He was rather angry, I'm afraid."

"I'm sure he was, he could not find what he was looking for." Elsie drew herself up. Proud she at least got herself out of that situation. She would just need to deal with the consequences later.

"The poor horse. Mr. Crawley climbed into the driver's seat and sent the horse flying with a sharp whip stroke."

Elsie shook her head in disappointment, thinking about the poor animal."Make sure that horse gets a good rub down and a few carrots when it gets back."

"Yes, I'll make sure it's done." The boy had a sincere expression about his face. Elsie was truly starting to like this boy. He would be a fine man, she just knew it.

He proved this by uttering "He is not a very good man, now is he?"

"No Benjamin, not a good man at all."

The boy nodded, then turned to leave.