The Highclere Fan Awards

Your source of information for the Highclere Fan Awards for Downton Abbey fanfiction.

[highclere-awards]

hello are you still posting downton fics?

Sadly no. Unfortunately I no longer have the time to keep this blog running. The last posting was in December, a few days after the last episode aired. If you would like to look at any old post or awards you can still find them on the blog. 

[eady-of-old]

The First Time He Touched Her

Summary: “I promise, Mister Bates. I believe in your innocence, and I won’t rest until you are free,” Anna Smith said, addressing him with all the ideological innocence of a new solicitor.

A/N: This is my entry for the Bateses’ Secret Service Secret Santa Exchange, written for a-lady-to-me, who requested a fanfic, possibly a modern AU. Thank you for not requesting fluff, as fluff is not my specialty. But I hope you like it anyway, and I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.

[magfreak-deactivated20210127]

The Stocking by wslowry

“It’s not wrong, you know, to want beautiful things,” he said, and then gestured at other working-class couples who were window gazing as well. “Even I wish for a better suit on occasion.” He never thought he’d say such a thing, but it was true, especially when he found an ink splat or fraying stitch that would no doubt give dear old Carson an apoplexy.

“Wrong, no,” she replied, “but impractical, at least as far as this dress is concerned.”

Taking her hand, Tom led them back towards the nearest tram stop. “Speaking of Christmas,” he said, “I’m rather at a loss as to what to get you! I even wrote to my mother and the only recommendation she had was what not to get – kitchen things and the like. Da got her a new mop bucket one year and she didn’t speak to him for a week!”

“I don’t blame her,” Sybil laughed. And she was just as baffled as to what to give him. There were several books he’d circled in a magazine, but he’d grumbled about the price. He also needed new ink ribbons for his typewriter, but that was hardly sentimental enough for her taste, especially as a first Christmas gift. “I have an idea!” she finally declared when they stepped aboard the tram. “Why don’t we make something?”

“What do you mean?”

“Just as I said – instead of buying something, we make each other a gift.”

Read more at ff.net!

This is the lovely Secret Santa fic wslowry wrote for me. Creating a post, since she’s not on tumblr. Go read it because it’s awesome!

[tammyteresa64-deactivated201610]

[shochmonster]

To Be Sure (Ficlet)

I’m at tea with my Lady Edith and my Jack Ross buddies, and inevitable conversation sparked this blurb. Written on my phone so apologies for auto correct!

–

Jimmy took the same route home through Westminster every day. He would always reach the middle of the Thames at 5pm every day, at which time he would stop to look up at Big Ben for the length of its chime.

Bong.

I know it’s not fair to you, he’d think, hands in pockets as he looked up

Bong.

I want to write - I do. I have so much I want to say.

Bong.

But I want it to be right.

Bong.

And even though my life is wanting without you.

Bong.

I want to be sure.

Bong.

Thomas.

The tolling quieted, and the seventeenth hour of the day began. Jimmy turned up his collar and thought about the one he loved as he continued on home, alone.

[handy-for-the-bus]

The morning was crisp that Christmas. Outside the wind rolled against the windows, whistling maddly. Snow had begun to fall with the first signs of daylight, and not one single soul dared to walk in the streets.

We see the scene before us from the parent’s eyes. Two small children, a boy and a baby girl in a cot. The time is nearly ten o’clock in the morning. The couple of adults, Anna and John, admiring them from the bedroom door, not wanting to spoil the delicacy of such moment.

Simon, four years old, was trying to place a Christmasy headband atop his little sister’s head, but Louise wouldn’t have it. The reindeer antlers like object was too big and she was more interested in playing with it than wearing it.

‘Lo, stay still,’ Simon begged, trying to straighten the headpiece, only for the girl to shake her head in hopes to understand what that strange object was. Her little pink tongue poking from between her lips, wetting the sides of her mouth. ‘Lo!’

‘Aren’t they the sweetest?’ Anna whispered to her husband as he wrapped both of his arms around her waist, resting his chin on her shoulder. The children were oblivious of this admiring.

‘We made a good job with them, didn’t we? Good performances…’ she felt him smile against the skin of her neck while he kissed her there with every word he spoke. Soft and slow, his eyes never leaving the sight of the little ones.

‘Indeed, Mr Bates. So good it’s about to be repeated,’ she said, mysteriously, leaning her head back on his chest.

‘To be repeated?’ he asked, confused, turning her around to face him. ‘What do you mean by that?’

‘Merry Christmas, Mr Bates.’ She gave him a quick kiss on the lips, then turned to walk into the room, glancing at her husband teasingly one last time before breaking the children’s spell. ‘And what’s this, you monkeys? Awake and without a word about it?’

‘Lo didn’t cry today,’ Simon explained, still trying to place the antlers atop of his sister’s round head, while the girl smiled at her mother, showing two of her new teeth. ‘She was just a bit sad to be alone.’

‘And you hopped in here to keep her company…’ John added as he joined them, leaning onto the cot and running a hand through the boy’s brown hair.

‘Yeah. She likes when I hop in here,’ the boy said.

‘Although you barely fit in there anymore,’ Anna giggled. Her son the spitting image of his father; dark hair, hazel eyes, strong and quiet personality. Always thinking, always wondering, a lover of books and good stories. The little girl was still too young to tell, but she had taken after Anna in her fair complexion and big blue eyes, and her once dark hair was turning lighter by the day.

‘All right, my loves. What do you say if we go down to open our presents?’ John suggested and Simon’s eyes grew big as he stretched out his arms to be helped out of the cot. ‘Come on, lad.’

The father lifted the boy and placed him on the floor while the mother took the girl in her arms. They walked down the stairs to the living room, Simon running ahead. A big sparkly tree sat in one corner between the two sofas, the fireplace dead since last night.

Anna handed John the girl, and she went willingly, flailing her chubby limbs in her father’s arms. It didn’t take him too long to kiss her cheek and explain that the most excited time of the year was about to happen, but Louise was more interested in one of the buttons of his pyjamas top.

‘Come here, Simon, let’s hand out the presents.’ Anna called her son as she kneeled on the floor next to the tree, the presents all in order of size. The boy sat down, ready for the task, while John took the place on the sofa closer to them, Louise now chewing on his thumb.

‘This one is for…Lo!’ Anna gave the present to Simon for him to hand out.

‘Here, Lo. This one’s for you,’ the brother offered and the girl took it excitedly, trying her best to rip the paper with her daddy’s help. The wrapping covered a small gummy toy, a proper one for teething seven months old like Louise.

‘Oh good! Before she eats my thumb off,’ John laughed, winking at her son, and giving the girl the little toy. She took it right away, chewing on it, as satisfied as she could be.

‘Now, this one here…’ Anna took a big present from under the tree. ‘This one is from mummy and daddy to Simon.’

‘Yes!’ the boy cheered taking his gift; a Star Wars Lego package, to build with daddy after breakfast, for sure the one he had been asking for months on end. ‘The one I wanted!’ Simon exclaimed eyeing the box. ‘Can I open it?’

‘Only after we eat. We don’t want to lose any pieces, right?’ John advised while his wife nodded. The boy understood and placed his present to the side for later.

‘Now…’ Anna smiled, biting her lower lip. ‘This one is from me to daddy. I hope you like it.’

‘I like everything that comes from you,’ John told her tenderly taking the little package in his free hand. The other still held the chewing baby.

‘Literally,’ Anna added, rubbing her hands together in enthusiasm. ‘Open it!’

Her husband nodded, trying to bounce the baby while opening a small box. Expectation building. He had told her all he wanted was a night of burning candles and passion after the children were asleep. ‘What’s this?’ he asked, taken aback. Little boots. Little white boots, too small for Louise, and a card that read: ‘For baby number three.’

‘God Anna! Are you sure?’ John looked at her, tears beginning to form in his eyes.  

‘I took four tests. All positive,’ she giggled. ‘I wanted to be really sure. Two months or so.’

‘Oh, love, come here!’

Anna rose from the floor and sat next to him, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him as tenderly as she could. Lo, in his arms, was looking up at the scene in awe, and Simon was too absorbed in admiring his Star Wars Lego box.

‘I can’t believe it. Three children?!’ John was overjoyed. One of his arms was around Anna’s middle, the other holding Louise against his chest. He kissed the top of the baby’s head. ‘I never thought we would have more than one!’

‘Me neither,’ Anna sighed, pleased. ‘But then, I never thought I could be so happy as I am now. And then…it’s too hard to resist you.’

‘And too hard to remember to take your pills, I can tell.’ John laughed.

‘I only forgot once…it was enough I suppose. But,I’m glad I did. I couldn’t be happier!’

‘Me too, my love. You always surprise me with the best things.’ He placed a kiss on her temple.

‘Next year we will have another one here with us.’

‘Indeed we will. Lo is still so little, she’ll have to learn how to share.’ He smiled down at the girl.

‘Oh, she will.’ Anna caressed Lo’s cheek. The chewing toy fell onto the floor, the baby wasn’t too happy now. ‘She will be a good middle sister.’

‘The best. Just like Simon is the best big brother.‘ John smiled at his son. ‘I feel guilty now that I don’t have a present for you. I shouldn’t have given you the necklace last night.’

‘Sshh you. I love your present! And then this is a present for both of us anyway. We made this little one together, remember?’ Anna whispered in his ear, nibbling on it softly.

‘And it was so good,’ he growled in a low voice. Lo began to fuss.

‘All right. It’s time for breakfast now,’ Anna announced, standing from the sofa. ‘Let’s go and eat so we can all build Simon’s lego together.’

‘Not Lo, mummy! She’ll eat the pieces,’ the boy pleaded.

‘No, not Lo. But she can watch,’ John said, smiling. ‘Come, lad. We have something to tell you, don’t we, love?’

‘Indeed, we do,’ Anna winked.

‘Is it another present?! Is it a lightsaber? Or a Darth Vader mask and cape? Is it?!’ Simon jumped up and down as they walked to the kitchen.

‘Well…not quite,’ she laughed, shooting a knowing look at her husband as he sat the girl in the high chair.

Breakfast was bacon, eggs and waffles, coffee and tea, and for Lo a bowl of porridge. When the news was shared with Simon, there were bets on a boy or a girl. The excitement had been heartfelt, and plans were made for this new life as they all built the Lego together; little Lo occupied with the wrappings and her new chewing toy.

It had been a happy Christmas. Quiet, in family, humble as the people they were, but it couldn’t have fit them better. Next year, a little Sarah would join them. Lo would be talking and walking around. Simon would be handling his sisters wonderfully well, and Anna and John would be overjoyed. Their happiness could only grow. Their Christmas’ would always be merry ones.

Wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy Downton Watching xXx 

[imyurdaisy]

Christmas 1920 - MM Secret Santa Project 2015

Hi!  I’m your Secret Santa for the Mary and Matthew Secret Santa exchange and this is your gift, a short fic to fill in some of the missing MM moments from S3.  I hope you enjoy it!  

I hope you have a lovely holiday season and a happy new year!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Christmas Eve, 1920 “Darling, Cora told me you were looking for me?“  Matthew asked as he stepped into the private sitting room Mary had set up for them.  Mary looked up at the sound of his voice, smiling at him gently as she nodded.  She was seated at her writing desk, but he couldn’t make out what was on the surface from his vantage point by the door. "What do you think of these?"  She held up samples of wallpaper for him to see.  He stepped further into the room, closing the door behind him. "I’m quite partial to the cream one."   "That’s fine."  He nodded, moving to stand at her shoulder.  "But the paper we already have is fine as well.  I don’t see why we need change it so soon.” “Oh, it’s not for this room.  It’s for the one across the hall."  She stood, putting them eye to eye.  He stared at her in confusion, his eyes flickering between her face and the paper.  He saw her smirk slightly at his expression, only adding frustration to his confusion.  She was toying with him. "Are you claiming more rooms for our use?"  He sounded unsure, as if there was a piece of information that he was missing.   "Of sorts."  She continued to smirk at him and he gave up trying to piece together her cryptic clues.   "What am I missing?"  He narrowed his eyes as Mary stepped away from him, reaching for the tea pot and pouring herself a cup.  "Seeing as I re-appropriated the room we used to use as a day nursery, I’m had to find another didn’t I?"  She continued to smirk that infuriating smirk, but it softened into a smile at the expression on Matthew’s face as the meaning of her words registered.   "Mary…  I…  You’re…"  He couldn’t help the smile that pulled at his lips, his hand reaching out to take her free one.  "You aren’t toying with me?” “No."  Her smile was just as wide as his.  She set down her cup just in time for Matthew to tug her into his arms, wrapping her in a fierce embrace.   "Oh, Mary."  He breathed, pulling away just enough so he could press his lips against hers for a soft kiss.  "You’re pregnant.” His eyes dropped to her stomach, still flat as he rested his palm against it.   “Our little prince should be here sometime next summer."  Mary placed her hand over his.   "Next summer."  He repeated, still in disbelief.  "It could be a girl, you know."  He couldn’t help but add.   "It’s a boy.  The next one will be a girl."  She replied, tone confident.   "Whatever you say, darling.  A baby."  He pulled her into another embrace, resting his cheek against her hair as he held her close.  "You have made me so happy, my darling.  So very, very happy."  He murmured, brushing a kiss against her cheek, never letting her out of his arms.  Mary didn’t say anything, relaxing into his embrace.  Matthew didn’t need her to say the words to know she was just as happy as he was.  He could feel it in the way she returned his embrace.   They were going to have a baby. ——————– They had decided not to say anything, not just yet.  To be honest, Mary had decided and Matthew was just too happy to disagree with her.  That didn’t stop him from spending most of time looking at her all throughout dinner though.  It wasn’t something completely out of the ordinary for him, he had to admit.  She would glance over to see him looking, only to shoot him a glare before darting her eyes back to whomever was speaking.   He could feel another set of eye staring at him and in the brief moments he looked away from Mary.   His mother was looking at him with the most peculiar expression.  Meeting her eye, he tried to school his features into something resembling puzzlement instead of his overwhelming joy. Mary would forgive him if he spoiled their news without having to ever utter a word. 

So he was glad that it was her actions, and not his, that ended up revealing it all.   It, of course, happened just as Matthew looked away from her.  The sound of silver clattering on china caused his eyes to snap back towards her.  Mary meanwhile sat stiffly, seeming to hold her breath as portions of their dinner were splattered across the footman’s livery.  "I apologize, Alfred."  Mary said tonelessly.   "Is everything alright, Mary?"  Robert asked, his face the picture of fatherly concern.   "Yes, I just felt a momentary wave of illness.  It’s passed now."  Matthew watched as she took shallow breaths as Carson attempted to clean up the dropped portion of meal on the tablecloth.  "It made me clumsy.” “But you’re alright?"  Robert reiterated, before Matthew could jump in and ask himself.  Mary just nodded, finally breathing as Carson stepped away with the last of the mess.   "Fine, Papa."  Matthew could see that she forced herself to smile.  Even so, he could see how pale she had gotten and remained to be, how she was breathing through her mouth and not her nose.   "Perhaps you should rest."  Cora suggested. Isobel was quick to chime in with her agreement.  Matthew expected Mary to refuse so he was surprised when she nodded and stood.  He jumped from his chair and hurried to her side to escort her out.  As soon as they were clear of the room, Mary turned to face him, pressing her forehead to his shoulder as she took several deep breaths.  He smoothed his hands up and down her back, giving her the time she needed to compose herself.   "Are you truly alright?  Should I call Dr. Clarkson?"  He said quietly as Mary raised her head from his shoulder.   "I just want to lie down."  It wasn’t an answer to his question, but Matthew wasn’t in the mood to fight her on it, not when she was so obviously still ill.  Taking her hand in his own, he settled the other on the small of her back as he guided her to their room and into the care of Anna who was waiting within.  It took a few moments for Mary to hand Anna her gown and then let down her hair before she was sliding into bed.  "Do you want me to bring you anything?"  He asked, taking a seat on the bed near her hip, his hand reaching for her own that rested above the bedclothes.   "Don’t stay for drinks."  She murmured, peering at him through half-lidded eyes, already on the verge of sleep.   "I’ll finish dinner and be straight back up."  He agreed easily, pressing a kiss to her forehead before standing to return to the meal. It was an easy request to fulfill; it wasn’t as if he had been planning on joining Robert for drinks anyway, not with Mary as she was.  "Just rest.”  He murmured as he stopped by the door for one last look at his wife.  It was no use though, she was already asleep. ——————– “I’m sorry I can’t stay.  But I’ll see you tomorrow for Christmas."  Matthew said as farewell to his mother.  Dinner had just finished and the whole family seemed to sense his need to return to Mary, but he didn’t want to miss saying goodbye to her.  "I anticipate it will be a very joyous night."  Isobel replied, smiling knowingly.  They were locked in a stare and it took Matthew a moment to work out what she was implying, but when he did, he could feel his cheek warm slightly as he blushed.  "Yes, well, that will be up to Mary to announce.” “If she still feels ill in the morning, dry toast should help."  Isobel squeezed his arm, smiling widely.  "I can’t tell you how happy I am for you.” “I’m still in shock about it all, truthfully."  Matthew admitted.  "But I should go see her.” “Yes, yes, go."  Isobel shooed him.  "I’ll see you both tomorrow.” “Goodnight, Mother."  He pressed a kiss to her cheek, bidding the rest of the family goodnight as he hurried to rejoin Mary. ——————– As he reached their bedroom door, he was tempted to join her straight away.  He could see a faint light shining from within and hoped that she was awake after her brief rest, but he knew that Mary would frown at him wrinkling his clothing if he joined her still dressed as he was.  So he forced himself to detour to his dressing room to change, leaving everything for Molesley to sort out later.  Mary was still asleep when he finally joined her.  She had changed since he saw her last, and her hair was properly tied back for bed as opposed to loose as she had it before.  There was a full tray abandoned on his side of the bed so he assumed Anna had tried to get Mary to eat something, but was unsuccessful.   Lifting the tray to set aside, he winced as the plates rattled at the movement.  Mary stirred at the noise, her hand reaching out to the spot where the tray had been.  "Matthew?"  Her voice was gravely with sleep. "I’m sorry."  He apologized, setting down the tray and then reaching for the light.  "Let’s go to sleep."   "Mmm.” Mary hummed as he finally joined her, shifting so her head settled on his chest. “My mother knows."  He whispered into the darkness, hoping that she was asleep so that he wouldn’t be forced to deal with her ire that their secret was out. "I assumed she would figure it out."  Came her sleepy reply.  "The nausea was ill-timed and I’m afraid I couldn’t disguise it well. No doubt Sybil would have put it together as well."   "She was so happy.  I can just imagine how Cora and Robert will react."   "I should think it will make for a perfect Christmas gift."   "So we are telling them tomorrow?” “I think our little prince demands it after his performance tonight.” “I hope you know how truly happy you have made me, my darling.  Happy Christmas."  Matthew pressed a kiss to her hair, wrapping his arm around her and pressing her closer to his side. "Happy Christmas."  Her soft reply came just as she resettled against him.  He felt her breathing even out as she dropped back off to sleep.   As Mary slept beside him, Matthew was too excited to even close his eyes.  Instead, he gazed out the partially opened drapes to see the first flurries of snow begin to fall.  He couldn’t help but be reminded of the last time it snowed at Downton, and the happiness he felt then.   At the same time last year, he had been alone and Mary engaged to another man.  Now they were married and she was pregnant with their child.  He never knew he could feel such happiness after all that had happened, but he was glad to be wrong.   1920 had been good to him.  He couldn’t wait to see what 1921 would bring.

[thank-god-and-you]

New Traditions

Rating: T (for a few swears)

Genre: Romance

Character(s)/Pairing(s): John Bates, Anna Smith; Anna/Bates

Summary: Modern AU. John Bates has no idea how his life is going to change when Anna Smith asks a favour of him.

Notes: Written for the Team Bates Secret Santa Exchange run by @batesessecretservice, for @me-and-mister-bates! :) I really hope you like it, and that you’ve had a great day (and that goes to everyone else too, of course)! (ETA: the fic is based on this prompt, which I have had saved since 27th December last year, haha.)

Link here.

[carlisle980]

Just a little drabble that sneaked out as I wait to figure out the next chapter of Worthy and True.

Please read, review & reblog, and please be encouraged to share the Richobel stories that live in your hearts!

[chelsiesouloftheabbey]

The Christmas (Eve) Chapter

Put this up last night, but didn’t get to post it here. Thanks to everyone for the reads and reblogs, and shout-out to @chelsiefan71 for on-the-fly proofreading <3

[branson-babes]

Merry Christmas!!! 😃

side note, I haven’t seen the CS yet, since I live in the US, but I haven’t heard anything about Tom so far from the Downton blogs I follow. I don’t really care about spoilers at this point, since this season’s been kinda disappointing. I did find the baby Bates scene though, which was so sweet. John and Anna have a little boy 😍

[lsgrimm91-deactivated20180701]

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/11628145/1/A-Lesson-In-Propriety

Elsie Hughes moves to England to study at Westburn University and finds herself drawn to history professor, Charles Carson. 

[the-jam-to-the-unicorn]

The debt

Summary: A scene that was absolutely missing in the christmas special. Starts at the day of Edith’ and Berties wedding, before the ceremony.

Rated: No smut.

Note: many characters

Warnings: -

Author note: A late birthday present for the lovely @abbys-jam-juggler! :)

Edith was getting ready in her room for the big moment. Rose was with her and talked about her little girl. Edith didn’t mind. Rose was such a lovely family member and she was happy she was her. “Oh, Edith. I almost forget to tell you…” “What?” “I hope you don’t mind…” “What, Rose, darling?” “I…organized a little surprise.” “A surprise? “Yes. A musical surprise.” “What kind of musical surprise?” “Well, if I would tell you it wouldn’t be a surprise.” Edith laughed. “Well, you’re right with that own. I don’t mind and I can’t wait to see it. Or hear it.” “I’m glad!”, Rose said, relieved, Edith wasn’t angry with her. “Do you need anything?” “Oh no! Thank you! I’ve organized everything! The…music instrument is probably arriving soon.” “Heavens! So I’m not allowed to go downstairs?!”, Edith asked, jokingly. “Of course you are! It’s in the salon, so you can go downstairs and it’s still a surprise!” “Oh, Rose, you’re very sweet.” Edith stood up, walked to Rose and hugged her before she gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“What’s going on?”, Robert asked as he came downstairs. Rose hurried to close the door of the salon. “Nothing…” “Rose?!” “It’s just a surprise for Edith.” “In the salon?” “Yes.” “What’s in the salon?” “It’s a surprise!” “I’m not Edith. And it’s my salon.” Rose sighed when Robert looked at her sternly. “Alright. But don’t tell Edith!” “I promise.” Rose opened the salon door and Robert looked inside. “A piano?” “Yes.” “Why you need a piano?” “I…hired a piano player. I think it would be nice thing for the wedding. And he plays very well. He is quite famous in London at the moment. A rising star! And everyone loves good music. You know, you could dance with Cora and he could play the wedding dance and…” “I got your point!”, Rob said and smiled. “That’s a very nice thought! And does this…rising star has a name?” “It’s a surprise!” Robert rolled his eyes. “Alright, I understood. I have to wait and see.” Rose smiled at Robert as he walked away.

The wedding was very beautiful and Rose was really happy for Edith. Everyone was back at Downton at the wedding party. Rose looked at the big clock and went to Atticus. “I have to go, to pick up my surprise.” She kissed him and went to door. Mary saw her and followed. “Are you already leaving?” “Oh no. I just have a little surprise for Edith and have to fetch it.” “Where?” “The train station.” “What? What is the present?” “A person.” Rose smiled brightly and took her coat from Andy. Then she left and went to waiting car. “To the train station, please.”, she told the chauffeur.

Meanwhile a train was on its way to the Downton train station. In one of the first class wagons was a mother with her daughter, a charming young girl with brown hair. The girl was looking curious to the big newspaper, opposite her. Only two hands, holding the newspaper, where visible and the legs of the man, who was reading. There was a soft knock on the door and the conductor was entering the wagon. “We’re at Downton, Sir.” The girl saw how the man behind the newspaper gave the conductor some coins and with a nod he left. The man behind the newspaper put it down, folded it together and put it in his suitcase, before he took it and went to door. The train stopped and the man get off the train. He was walking outside the train station and noticed the looks on him. He was young and good-looking, his suit was new and expensive and with his hat he looked like someone important or at least someone who had money. He stepped through the train station door and there it was…Downton. Well, not the castle, but the surrounding countryside. Jimmy took a deep breath and looked around. Nothing had changed. He smiled. “Well, well, well. Look at you! You made a man out of you!” Jimmy was turning around and saw Rose, getting out of the car and walking to him. “I did my best.” Rose smiled brightly at him, hugged him and gave a kiss on both cheeks. Jimmy returned the hug. “I’m so happy you could come!” “Well, this time I owned YOU something.” Rose laughed. “You look good and really nice. The girls must go crazy. And the boys too.” “You know, someone once told me I have to look marvellous and decent.” “Was this me?” “Yes.” “So, now you’re a man of status, is Jimmy still appropriate or do I have to call you Mr. Kent now?!” “I think the last one sounds nice.” Rose was hitting him lightly on the shoulder. “But you, my dear Rose, are allowed to call me everything you want.” “That’s what I wanted to hear! Now, the bride is waiting!” “Does everyone know I’m coming?” “No, it’s still a surprise. Well, Lord Grantham knows we have a famous piano player today as a guest, but not his name.” “Famous! Heavens! Don’t put so much pressure on me. It’s going to be shock for him, I’m afraid.” “Don’t worry. Everything will be fine.” “And…Mr. Barrow? Did he manage to come to the wedding?” “Oh, I’m sorry. There were so many people and so many things happened, I’m afraid I forgot to look for him.” Jimmy looked at her a little gloomy, but tried to smile. “Of course. Well, and he has a new job and has probably to work a lot.” “Probably.”, Rose said and Jimmy entered the car. Rose smiled, before she looked neutral again and entered the car too.

When they arrived at Downton Jimmy was looking through the car window. He always liked Downton, it was a nice place. And he never thought he would return as a guest. “What are you waiting for?!”, Rose shouted, standing at the front door. Jimmy took his suitcase and went to her, but stopped at the front door. Rose, who had already entered, stopped and turned around. “Everything alright?” “Yes. It’s just…I never thought, I would walk through this door as a guest. And…I’m nervous.” “Because of Thomas or everyone else?” “Both, I think.” “Just do, what we talked about.” “In which case?” “Both.” Jimmy nodded and followed her inside the salon, unseen by everyone. “How long do you need to prepare?” “Give me…5 minutes?” “Alright. I prepare everyone!”

“Edith! May I take the word for a moment?” “Of course, Rose. Everything alright?” “Yes. The surprise arrived!” “Oh, how lovely!” Rose turned around the other guests. “Excuse me, everyone!” There was silence and everyone looked to Rose. “Thank you. Today is a lovely day, because my beloved Edith and Bertie married and I wish them only the best, a lot of happiness, hopefully their whole life, and a lot of children.” Everyone was clapping and toasting to Edith and Bertie and both looked smiling, very much in love at each other. “As a little surprise, I organized a little something. Both love music very much, especially modern music, which is piano music. They both love London, so why not invite someone from London? Ladies and gentlemen, may I present you, the rising star from London. He is an excellent piano player and, Ladies, also a good dancer. Please welcome, my musical surprise, Mister James Kent!” The door opened and Jimmy was stepping outside. Everyone, who didn’t know him, was clapping and cheering. Robert looked shocked to Cora and Mary irritated at Jimmy. She turned around to Thomas, who was standing near to hear. “Thomas, isn’t this…Jimmy? The footman we once had?!?” Thomas didn’t answer. He couldn’t. He looked, stared, at Jimmy. Who was smiling and bowing a little bit. Andy and Molesley rolled out the piano and Jimmy was sitting down. “Does the happy couple have a wish?”, he asked and Edith and Bertie looked at each other. “Well…maybe a charleston?!” “As you wish. And, my congratulations.” Jimmy turned around to the keys and started playing. His fingers played, almost danced, lightly over the keys and he was smiling. Thomas tried to understand the whole situation and continued to look at Jimmy while everyone else started dancing. Robert went to Rose who smiled brightly. “Rose!” “Uncle Robert, isn’t it fantastic?!” “It’s not! I sacked this man!”, he hissed angry. “Well, he hasn’t returned as your servant. He started a new life after this. And don’t think, I didn’t knew this. I know everything.” “Every…everything?!” “Yes.” “Excuse me?!”, Atticus interrupted them. “May I have this dance?” “You may.”, Rose answered, smiled at Robert and followed Atticus. “I hope, I didn’t interrupted something important?!”, Atticus asked concerned. “Absolutely not. The timing was perfect.” “Everything is going as planned?” “Well, we see. So far, it’s looking good.”

The celebration continued and Jimmy played song after song. Thomas stayed in the background, in the shadows, still trying to understand what was going on. Jimmy looked good, in every possible way. He was smiling, looked happy. He gained a few pounds, matured a bit and the suit… . Thomas was no expert, but he would bet that the suit wasn’t cheap. What happened? After hours Jimmy had a break because Edith had to make herself ready for the departure. Before Thomas had the chance to go to Jimmy, Rose went to him and hugged him. “Thank you! You were wonderful! And now you deserve a break! You should say hello to everyone, look a bit around. Maybe you see other familiar faces.” Before Jimmy could answer Rose was away. He laughed and looked after her. “Jimmy! What a surprise!” He turned around and Baxter was walking to him, Mrs. Hughes and Molesley where following her. “Hello, Mrs. Baxter. Mrs. Hughes, Mr. Molesley. Nice to see you!” “Who would have thought we would see you again at Downton as a famous piano player!”, Mrs. Hughes said smiling. “Not me.”, Jimmy joked and everyone laughed. “Oh, Mr. Barrow! See, who is here!”, Mr. Molesley shouted and waved Thomas. Thomas took a deep breath and joined the little group. Jimmy tried to smile but it was hard. He looked at Thomas and Thomas looked at him. “Hello, Jimmy.” “Mr. Barrow. Nice to see you again.” Then there was silence. After some moments Mrs. Hughes coughed. “Well, I’m sure you have to tell each other a lot. If you excuse us.” She vanished together with Molesley and Baxter. Baxter stopped and turned around. “Do you think everything is alright? There was a strange mood between these two.”, Molesley said. “I hope.”

“I think Mrs. Hughes is right. There is a lot to talk about.”, Jimmy said and tried to show a smile. “Really? I don’t know what.” And with that Thomas turned around and left. Jimmy wanted to say something, but didn’t know what. Rose appreared at his side. “You knew, he was here, right?” Rose nodded and Jimmy looked at her. “And you didn’t tell me, why?” “A little surprise. How was it?” “Problematic, as I thought.” Jimmy went back into the salon and started packing his things. “You can’t go!”, Rose said and closed the door behind her. “Not after everything!” “Rose, I appreciate what you did. But I think to much is broken…” “No. Talk to him!” “I’m not sure he would listen.” “Make him. You already missed a chance. This isn’t your second chance. Or your third. This is your fourth or fifth. How many you think you get?”

Thomas was standing outside in the yard, hidden in the shadows, smoking and crying. He couldn’t really say why, he couldn’t find the words. He jumped as he heard footsteps. “You’re alright?”, Baxter asked and stepped into the light. “Yeah.” “No you’re not.” Thomas sniffed and rubbed his face. “No, I’m…I’m fine. No idea why I’m crying. It must be the wedding. Everything is so beautiful and everyone is so happy and…” “Jimmy is here.” Thomas looked at her and tried to smile. “Yeah. He is hear.” “Have you talked with each other?” “Why?” “I think, you have to tell each other a lot.” “Yeah. No, we haven’t.” “You remember, what I told you, after you tried to poison yourself with this stupid medicine? You are brave, Thomas. A very brave man. And you probably experienced more pain than everyone else in this world. Don’t think I’m blind or stupid, just because I’m a woman. I saw, how you were looking at Carson every morning when he came in with the letters after Jimmy got fired. I saw, how you looked at him when he was working her. I saw it. A love like that doesn’t disappear just because you want it. Jimmy was, is and will always be your one true love. If you want it or not.” “You’re not disgusted?” “You’re like a brother to me and I love you. I could never hate you or think bad of him. You should know this after everything.” “So what should I do?” Before Baxter could answer they heard the door and she turned around. Jimmy was standing there and looked to them. Baxter turned around to Thomas. “Talk with him. He isn’t back for no reason.” “He was the surprise.” “The question is: for whom? Be brave, Thomas.” She smiled at Downton and went back inside. Jimmy walked to Thomas, slowly, unsure what to say. “I don’t want much.”, he started. “Just…please, listen to me. Let me explain everything. Let us talk.” For some moments Thomas looked at him and said nothing. Then he pointed at the chair next to him and offered Jimmy a cigarette. “No, thank you.”, Jimmy said and sat down. “Why didn’t you write?” Jimmy took a deep breath. “I…told you I’m not good with letters. And I didn’t know how to write.” “How?” “I mean, how to write my thoughts. How to put them in words.” “And now?” “Now I can.” “What changed?” “A lot.” There was silence again. Thomas didn’t looked at Jimmy. “Tell me. Everything.” Jimmy nodded. “After I got sacked, I asked everywhere for a job, but no chance. I traveled to London and hoped to have a better chance, but no one would give me a job. At some point I had no money and I had to live on the streets for some weeks, months. One night, I was…begging for some coins, Rose and Atticus found me. Rose took me to their home, gave me a meal and a bed and promised me to help me. She…was in my debt because I’ve helped her once. She hired me, but the other staff didn’t liked that very much. Well, you know Rose, she didn’t care that much about it. One night, Atticus tried to play the piano but it was out of tune. I tuned it and Rose asked, why I was able to do this and I told her I play the piano. She asked me to play and said I play really good. A week later there was a big business man for dinner, Mr. Barrymore. Rose asked me to play for him. Of course, in the beginning, I thought she went crazy. But it turned out she had a plan. Mr. Barrymore was opening a new night club with a restaurant, a really big thing. He was very impressed and hired me. So, I started playing for him. And, Thomas, you wouldn’t believe what a beautiful life it is. My coworkers are very nice and Mr. Barrymore is probably the nicest man I know and my life is perfect.” “And you seem to earn a lot of money.” “Oh, yes. The payment is quite nice and I have my own flat and the tips are mine too.” “Wow, sounds like a perfect life.”, Thomas said with a bitter sweet smile. “Almost, yes. I met so many wonderful people and Mr. Barrymore…he is… .” “He is?” “He is like you, Thomas. Like us.” It took Thomas some seconds to understood what was Jimmy saying. Slowly he looked up. “Like…us?!” “Yeah.” “Us?!?” Jimmy was smiling at him. “It took me…way too long to realize it and now, when I look back, I think, I knew all the time but was too afraid and too immature to understand and realize… . But I met other people, not only Mr. Barrymore, and they helped me to understand. Not only me and my feelings and what was going one. Thomas, you wouldn’t believe what is happening on in London. Men like us living free, well, almost, but they are happy and have relationships and go out and… . You should see it! And I talked with Rose a lot, she knew the whole time, and we are actually really close friends, and we talked about it and I told her everything and she helped me too…” “Jimmy. What…what are…trying…” Jimmy smiled and took Thomas hand. “I hope it’s not too late and I know I’m a foul. Thomas Barrow, I, James Kent,…love you.” Thomas looked at him and he was sure he stopped breathing. He started to laugh. “What?!” “I love you, Thomas. I always have and I always will.” Thomas smiled brightly and looked at Jimmy. “So, what are you saying?” “I honestly don’t know.” Jimmy was laughing. “May I do something?” Thomas nodded and Jimmy put his hands on Thomas cheeked and kissed him. In the beginning shy, unsure, asking if it was alright. And Thomas closed his eyes and kissed Jimmy too. After some seconds they broke the kiss and smiled at each other. “I never thought, this day would happen. How long are you staying?” “Until tomorrow. Come with me to London, Thomas.” “What?” “Come with me, please.” “Are you crazy? I have a job here…” “We find you a new one. I’m sure Mr. Barrymore would give you own.” “I have no place to live.” “I have a flat. A big flat. And Mr. Barrymore wouldn’t care.” “Jimmy, that’s…” “Crazy? I know. You always wanted to go and start your own life. Start it with me.” Thomas laughed. “I’m probably mad but…alright.” “You come with me?” “Yes. And I love you too.” And they both kissed, happy and Jimmy couldn’t wait to return to London with Thomas. And Thomas couldn’t wait to go with Jimmy.

Baxter was standing at the door, looking at them and smiled. “Finally.”, someone said and Baxter turned around. Rose was standing behind her. “Lady Rose, it’s not what you think…” “No need to worry. I’m happy too.” Rose smiled at her and went away. Atticus was waiting for her at the stairs. “Everything alright?” “I think, everything is perfect.” “Your plan was successful?” “My plans are always successful.”

[instantespanoramicos]

4/100 ways to say “I love you“ - Let me fix it

[carlisle980]

Companion piece to She Considers; this one Richard’s POV.

Please read, review, reblog and STAY RICHOBEL!

[a-lady-to-me]

Merry Christmas!!! This is my addition to the @batesessecretservice project!!! And my secret person was the lovely, @annambates! I hope you enjoy this :) xoxo

[broadwaybaggins]

Sybil x Tom "Just do one last thing. Kiss me."

On the first day of Christmas, a writer gave to me…the Bransons K-I-S-S-I-N-G!

So I’ve decided to do a 12 Days of Christmas drabble thing, because I adore Christmas and don’t want it to end just yet, and will be writing a drabble every day from now until January 6. This is just a little bitty thing, hopefully the others will be longer, but my muse is a bit burnt out after Secret Santa gifts!

It took two children 27 minutes to unwrap every single Christmas present under the tree. 27 minutes to tear into months of hard work and planning, 27 minutes to squeal over one thing before eagerly moving onto the next, 27 minutes of “Daddy can you put this together right now? Please please please?”. 27 minutes, and all before 7 AM.

Now, Sybbie was eagerly playing with her new American Girl Doll that Martha had sent her (Samantha Parkington, from 1904 New York City, which Sybil had to admit that she was just about as interested in as her daughter was), and Michael had fallen asleep in a sea of torn wrapping paper and discarded bows. Tom sat on the couch, looking a bit dazed, as Sybil settled beside him and handed him a cup of coffee.

“That was…”

“Impressive?”

“Never seen anything like it.”

“Never underestimate two kids under the age of seven on Christmas morning,”

Tom grinned and took a sip of coffee. “Mmmm,” he said appreciatively. “You’re  a saint.”

“I figured we’d both need it. Although I do like the sound of that. Saint Sybil.”

“Speaking of saints, thank God we decided to take them to Mass last night and this morning. I can’t imagine having to drag them away from their presents to go to church.”

“You’d have to wake them up first. Michael’s out cold.”

Sybil chuckled softly, watching her son as he peacefully slept. “It was a good Christmas, wasn’t it? Quick, but good.”

“It’s not over yet. He’ll be up soon and we can enjoy it for real.”

“I should probably go get a start on the cinnamon rolls then, just in case. And I still want to try the soda bread recipe your mother gave me, although I’m not sure if it’ll be nearly as good.”

“I’m sure yours will be just as lovely.”

From his spot on the floor, Michael stirred, and Sybil grinned. “Duty calls. Christmas means cinnamon rolls. Always has, always will be.”

“Let me give you a hand in the kitchen, then. And maybe start to clear some of this paper up.”

“Just do one last thing,” Sybil said as Tom, too, stood up. “Before you go and do all that like the perfect husband you are.”

“What would that be?”

“Kiss me.”

A slow smile spread across Tom’s face. “Well, how can I say no to that?”

Sybil’s kiss was sweet and a little sleepy, still–Tom suspected that, after Michael woke up and before the extended Branson clan descended upon them for the day, she might take a nap of her own–and tasted of coffee served just the way she liked it. He was tired and still feeling a bit of “Christmas whiplash”, but he wished that this moment never had to end. “Merry Christmas, love,” he whispered as he pulled away.

“Merry Christmas, Tom.”