Who did what - Quiet Evolution Universe
I was tagged by batwings79 for this awesome exercise (thank you!). It took me back to this past summer and I so appreciated the memories and all of the ffn/tumblr love. Chelsie shippers - I heart you all!
Who made the first move: Technically, it was Elsie at the Beach all those months ago. But actually, it was Mr. Carson's subconscious reaching out to touch Mrs. Hughes's shoulder during their champagne nightcap.
Who said ‘I love you’ first: Mr. Carson, in "their meadow" (p.s. that was such a missed opportunity with the dried flowers from their meadow. Maybe I should write a one-shot sequel for their first anniversary in which Charles shows her the pressed flowers. Hmm.)
How often they fight: Fight? Not that much. They've learned how to be at odds with each other during their professional life. They had to get along then - they have to figure out how to get along even after they're retired. They'll do that. But spats? I have a headcanon that Charles' is slightly untidy (or at least freaking loud when he drops his shoes on the floor at night with a great thud) and it irks Elsie to no end.
Who is the big spoon/little spoon: Mostly Charles as the big spoon. But on those nights when Charles' bones hurt while laying on his regular sleeping/cuddling side, she'll cuddle up to him as he turns the other way.
What their nicknames are for each other: Elsie called Charles "My dearest" at one point. I know he called her "My darling," a few times, as well.
Who is the better cook: Hmmm. I'm not actually sure for this headcanon. They will have a toaster, of that we are sure. I think Elsie will learn to make his favorite sweets all the while minding that he keeps active enough (in the bedroom or otherwise) to ensure all those treats don't go to his waistline. Charles might remember some things from when he was a boy or some of the more simpler fare Mrs. Patmore made (she might sneak them both some lessons, honestly, perhaps behind each other's backs, at least for a while).
Their song: Dashing Away with a Smoothing Iron and any tunes he might hum/sing into her hair as they dance in their parlor as the sun goes down.
Who remembers their anniversaries: Both of them. They were way too accomplished at their jobs to not keep track of details like that. I dare say they might surprise each other with anniversaries they never celebrated before - like the day she started at Downton, the day they paddled in the sea, etc (I'd like to think they recreate that moment while barefoot walking through the cool blades of grass in their backyard).
Their favorite thing to do together (besides sex): I don't think it would actually matter, besides being able to be together. Or, or, cuddling up on their sofa at the end of the day, sipping something (tea, sherry, wine), and reading to each other. Don't tell me they don't take distinct pleasure in each other's particular voices.
Who ‘wears the pants’ in the relationship: it depends on the particular matter. But on the whole, Elsie. He might forget that fact, but when he screws up, and knows he screws up, oh he knows she wears the pants.
How they would get engaged: It's in one of my favorite chapters I've had the pleasure of writing. Sorry not sorry for borrowing just a bit from As Time Goes By to make that chapter come to life.
What their wedding would be like: It was traditional - in the church during the week with not too many people in attendance.
How many kids they’ll have: Alas, none. But they'll receive plenty of letters from their downstairs bairns (and Mr. Branson). Anna/Bates will visit with their bairns in tow, as well.