#lord gillingham

[lifewithaview]

Downton Abbey (2010) S4E3

The Crawleys throw a weekend house party with guests including Terence Sampson and Anthony, Lord Gillingham. Tom is out of his depth making small talk but Edith is happy to welcome Michael into the group. Mary confides in Gillingham - although he is engaged to another woman - but John is irritated by Gillingham's valet Green's flirtatious attentions to Anna. Isobel, still mourning her son, is persuaded by Violet to join the party for a recital by opera singer Nellie Melba, while Molesley, now working as a delivery driver, stands in for the injured Jimmy as footman and Alfred saves the culinary day when stressed-out Mrs Patmore has an anxiety attack. During the recital Michael impresses Robert whilst Green forces himself on Anna, who asks Mrs Hughes not to tell John.

[golbrocklovely]

the rakish gentlemen // sam and colby

A/N: just a general statement across the board: i'm not going for historical accuracy here. i did a very small amount of research for this, most of which was based on the language and some of the societal norms but even then, it wasn't a thorough search. so if things are incorrect or not quite right… that's why. also this is heavily inspired by my new found love for bridgerton, so anything in the story that reminds you of that (show or book wise) - that's also why lol anyone that writes regency romances or stories, props to you bc the formal English alone made me want to off myself. just kidding… but not really. anyway, i hope you enjoy this one. it was fun to write once i got the hang out it. lmk what you think and i'll see you guys with another fic (hopefully) soon :)

prompt: being out in society was enough of a challenge, but overhearing two very sought after lords' snide remarks about you made you want to give up altogether. that is until you hatch a plan - make them beg for your hand in marriage, and then leave them high and dry. it should be simple enough. || AU!regency era sam and colby x fem!reader

trigger warning: formal english (lol), historical inaccuracy, lots of 'samuel' and 'cole' so if you don't like that don't read lol, snc are kind of dicks but they turn it around by the end somewhat, just a whisper of smut but not really, cliff hanger ending??, heavy on gender norms of the time period so be weary of that if that's something you don't like, bit of angst, everyone is of age/in their 20s

word count: 6347

~~~~~~~~

The weather in London during the middle of spring was the absolute best time of year, according to most in the Ton. To Miss Y/N Y/L/N, it was the most splendid of weather to promenade with one's closest confidant, and for her that was Miss Amelia Ruteledge. The two had been inseparable since childhood, living across the street from one another. And coming out in society together only strengthened their bond over the last two seasons.

"How eager are you for Lady Gillingham's masquerade ball this evening?" Amelia asked, coyly stealing a glance at Y/N.

"I can hardly wait. I am positively elated." Y/N replied dryly, her faux smile wide.

"Y/N, must you indulge in sarcasm?" She questioned.

"Yes, Amelia. I must," a quiet laugh fell from her lips. "It is hard for me to be excited for yet another ball, one where I will again be doomed to the corner of the room, watching as others dance."

"I had presumed you enjoyed observing." Amelia teased.

"It is not as fun anymore, ever since your courtship with Viscount Throne began." Y/N sighed, wiping away pretend tears from her cheeks, "Alas, my spinsterhood is in full bloom."

She shook her head, patting Y/N's arm sweetly, "Don't be ridiculous. You are nowhere near being a spinster."

"I'm two years out in society with little to show for it. One might believe I had contracted the plague, given how much the gentlemen of the Ton disregard me." Y/N rolled her eyes, her voice bitter.

"You mustn't say that. You are an absolute catch, by all accounts." Amelia argued, looking into Y/N's eyes.

She huffed. "Thank you. But your opinion apparently is the only one that is favorable towards me."

"That is simply not true," she protested back. "I believe many gentlemen in the Ton would admire you once they were acquainted. But I would not be surprised if your charm and wit intimidate them, thereby causing their reluctance."

A cheeky smile appeared on Y/N's face. "I couldn't have said that better myself." The ladies giggled, continuing down the walkway towards a small pond. Y/N glanced upwards, noting the eligible men coming their way. Grabbing Amelia's arm, she yanked her behind a tree close by, pressing her back tightly against the oak.

Amelia furrowed her brow, "What ails you?"

Y/N hushed her, looking over Amelia’s shoulder. "I don't wish to speak to anyone else presently. Particularly suitors."

"So you think hiding behind a tree is wise?" She blinked.

Y/N wanted to glare, but held back. "Guess I'm not as witty as you thought."

Amelia peaked behind the tree, their maids coming closer to them. She gestured for them to stop, not wanting the men Y/N was so flustered by to notice. The maids turned towards each other, giving a knowing look, and faced the pond instead.

"Did they leave yet?" Y/N whispered.

Amelia hummed. "No. They are still coming our way."

"Damn." She cursed, scrunching her face.

"Speak louder. I am sure your coarse tongue will make them leave hastily." She gaped.

Y/N held back more careless words, doing her best to remain calm. "I am certain that any gentleman has heard far worse words than a solitary curse from a lady's lips."

Amelia peaked again, her eyes widening. "Oh, you are correct about that. Did you see who was coming?"

"No. I just knew it was three gentlemen." Y/N dissented.

"It's Mr. Beaumont... with Lord Golbach and Lord Brock." Amelia choked out.

"Ah, even worse than I imagined." Y/N gulped.

Lord Samuel Golbach and Lord Cole Brock were some of the most sought after men in all of the Ton. Eager mamas and anxious daughters alike pined to be seen affectionately by the two Lords. They were not only rich, but handsome - a deadly combination. And with years of friendship under their belt, they were basically family to one another. Everyone out in society knew - to get in good graces with one, you had to be liked by the other.

But even with everyone wanting their attention, they were seldom to give it out. The rakish behavior displayed by the two was known throughout, which confused Y/N deeply. Why play cat and mouse if one knows it's not trying to be caught? Why pretend to be an eligible bachelor if there were no plans to seek a wife at all?

Y/N knew to stay away. She had no interest in them, moreover.

"Mr. Beaumont, I do believe you are one of the funniest men in all of London." Cole chuckled, clasping the man on the shoulder.

Edward bowed, "Such high praise coming from you, Lord Brock. You two are going to tonight's ball, yes?"

"Of course. Wouldn't miss it for the world." Samuel grinned, glancing at Cole knowingly.

"I must ask, are there any ladies that have caught your eye this season?" Edward continued.

Samuel shook his head, "Unsurprisingly, no. Cole and I have very high standards. So high, in fact, it has been impossible to find anyone worthy of matching with." 

"How incredibly rude." Amelia murmured.

"I am confident there are several ladies in the Ton that would be worthy of becoming your wives. What about Miss Mullens?" Edward mentioned.

"Terrible dancer." Cole quipped.

He questioned, "How about Miss Walford?" 

Samuel frowned. "Her character is sorely lacking." 

"Miss Ramsbury?" He puzzled.

"Beautiful indeed, most obnoxious laugh I've ever heard however." Cole jeered.

"Miss Y/L/N! What about her? She seems well." Edward exclaimed.

A silence filled the air, Y/N only hearing the sound of her pounding heart within her breast. While she may not have harbored interest in either Lord, the notion of their thoughts about her caused her skin to tingle thrillingly. She had never heard a man speak of her in any way, romantic or otherwise. She was eager to know.

Both men snickered, an almost childish laugh cutting through. Samuel cleared his throat, "You must be joking, Beaumont. That lady, would be the last on our list to ever be courted by us. Remember, we have high standards."

"Not even worthy of considering, if I'm honest." Cole sniveled.

“I suppose those are the lower ranking ladies of the Ton.” Mr. Beaumont chortled.

Amelia moved to jump out from behind the tree, ready to give all three gentlemen a piece of her mind. Y/N grabbed her arm, yanking her close. She motioned for her to remain silent, listening once more to the Lords and Mr. Beaumont.

"It is getting late, good sirs. I must be arriving back home soon for late afternoon tea with the missus. Good day, Lord Golbach. Lord Brock. Best of luck on your endeavors." He bowed, the Lords following suit.

Y/N finally turned to all three gentlemen, still covered by the oak tree. She watched as the Lords went off in the opposite direction as Mr. Beaumont. She waited until they were far enough away, taking her first breath in for what felt like years.

"I cannot believe those men!" Amelia screeched lowly.

Y/N slid down the tree, resting her head back, exhausted. "It's incredible, really. Dare I say... humbling?"

"Calling them rakes is the nicest thing I can think of. They are-" She started.

Cutting her off, Y/N placed a hand up. "Save your words, Amelia. Heaven knows I'm thinking far worse than you."

She stared at the ground for a moment, replaying their words over and over in her head. It hurt to hear how cold they were towards her, someone they had never even had a single conversation with.

"Lord Golbach and Lord Brock don't know you, Y/N. And by the way they speak of strangers, they don't deserve to know you either. No wonder no one has won their affections. They have far too much for themselves." Amelia retorted. She fanned herself, feeling her skin growing hot with anger.

Y/N mumbled. "High standards, remember?"

"I have heard of the numerous rejections they’ve given to the ladies of the Ton. It's astonishing how sought after they remain." Amelia declared, utterly appalled.

Rejected. The word echoed in Y/N's head. No one knew that feeling quite like her, especially not the Lords. Who could ever reject them...

Abruptly, Y/N jumped to her feet with an incredulous smirk; an idea rushing to the forefront of her mind.

"Pray tell, what is that look for?" Amelia queried.

"I believe the Lords just need a dose of their own medicine." She sang snidely. 

Amelia raised an eyebrow. "I beg your pardon?"

"What lady in all of the Ton has ever rejected them? Every girl and mama swoons at their feet; that's why they feel they can judge and dismiss anyone they want, regardless of how perfect a match the lady might be," Y/N stated. "So... what if that is turned on them?"

"How?" Amelia leaned back against the tree, studying her friend.

"Tonight's ball. It is a masquerade. Those two have never spoken to me, not once in all of the two years I've been out. Yet somehow, they've already declared I'm not worthy to be their wife just from mere appearances alone. Well, what if they aren't worthy enough to be my husband?" Y/N's eyes were wild, a mischievous glint sparkling within.

She gasped, "You're going to reject them?"

"I shall make them plead for my hand in marriage, only to desert them after all." She boasted.

"Do you think you can do that?" Amelia cocked her head to the side.

Y/N rolled her eyes, "I plan to beat them at their own game. I am sure they won’t know what to do with themselves when a woman is actually disinterested in them. Plus, anything else my charm and wit can make up for… hopefully."

"Are you sure your skills are up to the challenge? This could possibly ruin you if done incorrectly. A man won't take his pride being scorned." Amelia worried, holding Y/N's hand briefly. 

She gave Amelia's hand a gentle squeeze, "I have been watching for two seasons what works and what doesn't. I've always been too frightened to be myself, to be vulnerable. But I have nothing to lose tonight. I am not interested in them, and they do not even see me as a potential match. I have to do this, for my pride alone." 

Y/N strutted away, nodding to her maid to follow her. She stopped for a moment, turning back to Amelia. "After tonight, no more Miss Wallflower." 

~~~~

Luckily for Y/N, being friendly with the modiste had its perks. For one, she was able to have some alterations done to her gown long before the ball. She was used to wearing more muted colors; colors that faded her into the background of any dance. But now, staring in the looking glass at herself, her rose colored gown almost sparkled in the candlelight.

She knew this would be one of the more flashier gowns, even for a masquerade. Lady Gillingham's balls were always known as being a bit uptight; the masquerade was the only one where going against her rules was allowed. But most in the Ton dared to not break them even so.

Y/N felt a rush of nerves hit her. Would this be enough to cause the Lords to notice her? She hoped. If not, her whole plan would be foiled.

The carriage ride to the Gillingham estate felt like an eternity. Y/N fanned herself repeatedly; the cool night air doing nothing for her warm skin.

Amelia and Y/N wrote to one another to meet at the Gillingham lineage painting that adorned the entrance. Both ladies concurred that the face of Viscount Gillingham in the painting always looked like he was cocked eyed; something they both had jested about their first time out in society. They knew that was their spot to meet if they needed to step away from it all. But tonight, because of their masks, they wanted to be able to find a familiar face in the crowd if anything was to go awry.

Y/N pulled her cloak tightly to her bodice, making sure her dress was covered. She gazed around the foyer of the estate, the grand ceilings always making her feel so small. She could hear the ball had commenced, a fanciful melody being played by the orchestra echoed down the halls. She waited under the painting, glancing at all of the attendees coming through the doors. Which one would be Amelia and her Viscount?

Rounding the stairs, a golden dress shone in the corner of Y/N's vision. She turned, making note of the matching locks of hair.

Along with their meeting spot, Y/N and Amelia devised a query only they knew. Y/N studied the woman, finally speaking. "Excuse me, have you ever read Emma? It is one of my favorite novels."

"There is nothing like staying home, for real comfort." Amelia quoted, relief hitting her at the sound of her friend's voice.

Y/N sighed, "Oh thank Heavens it's you Amelia. I thought you might already be in the ballroom."

Amelia shook her head, "I informed you I would wait until your arrival to enter the ball."

Y/N gazed over Amelia's shoulder, looking for someone. "Where is your Viscount?"

She smiled, "He had affairs to tend to, and said he wouldn't be able to make it tonight. So I'm all yours."

"You don't have to stay with me all night. Just until my plan works on the Lords." The girls locked their arms with one another, slowly walking towards the ballroom.

"They've already arrived. I saw them come in moments before you." Amelia whispered low.

Y/N raised an eyebrow, "Well, let's make our grand entrance then."

As the ladies walked into the ballroom, Y/N noted that they were the last two to enter. She held her breath, staring over the railing of the beautiful marble stairs. She could feel all eyes turn to her and Amelia. Amelia trotted down the stairs, her gloved fingers holding the banister gently. Y/N waited until she was at the bottom, and began her descent. 

Now was the time to woo over the men of the Ton, she thought. She untied her cloak, letting it fall off her shoulders; leaving it on the stairs. Light gasps fell from around the room. She knew her alterations would cause a stir, but gasps? She was taken aback by such sounds.

Not only did she go gloveless to this event, but her slightly lowered neckline showed off her most precious of jewels in more ways than one. The modiste spoke of how most of the Ton was not breaking Gillingham's rules, disregarding the whole point of a masquerade. Y/N knew this was her time to shine. To become a rule breaker.

Lord Golbach and Lord Brock were rule breakers themselves. And even more so, heartbreakers. They were aware of this too. Samuel and Cole gave each other a quick glance, noting the breathtaking beauty dressed in rose coming down the stairs.

Eligible gentlemen from around the room scurried over to Amelia and Y/N, doing their best to introduce themselves quickly. Cole smoothed out his suit jacket, parted his way through the crowd and reached Y/N in no time.

Y/N was taken aback by all the men surrounding her, never having this much attention before. As she glanced up, her eyes immediately made contact with a pair of striking blue ones. The pleasing smile, the chestnut hair, the almost devilish gaze.... she knew it could only be one man.

"Miss Rose, lovely to make your acquaintance." Cole bowed, speaking over all of the men pining for her.

She scrunched her face, confused. "Do you believe that to be my name?"

He blinked, "No. I'm simply calling you that because of your gown."

"Oh..." Y/N cleared her throat awkwardly, returning to a more disinterested persona. "How clever."

"May I accompany you to the floor?" He asked, his voice as smooth as silk.

A man in the small crowd let out a scoff, "Good sir, I do believe I was-"

"I think I can speak for myself, your grace." She turned back to Cole, a playful smile on her lips, "I'm afraid you aren't the first to ask. But if you care to wait, I'll gladly dance with you second."

Lord Brock was surprised, but he chalked up this misunderstanding to her not knowing who he was. No one ever denied Cole a dance. Even those with cards completely filled out. He bowed graciously, moving out of the way so she could be guided onto the dancefloor by the other gentleman.

By his short stature, Cole could tell it was Viscount Davis. While he did have a lot of money, he was a tiresome presence to be around. And surely, Miss Rose would soon find that out herself.

And Y/N did, in record time. Being eye-level with a gentleman was not exactly something she was used to, but all it did was make her very aware of his eyes stealing glances at her bosom. The song ended rather quickly, the Heavens listening to her pleas. Before she could even curtsy at the gentleman, Cole was already next to her, waiting to join her in the next dance. She almost laughed at how eager he was; how easily her plan was playing out. They bowed to one another, and the music slowly began. His expert hands slid into hers, warm and welcoming. His close proximity made her aware suddenly just how handsome he really was. She could understand, for a moment, why so many ladies fawned over him. And her heart skipped a beat.

"Would you be alright with me breaking the rules this evening?" Cole chimed in suddenly.

Y/N cocked her head, "That depends on what you intend to break."

"I would like to tell you my name, and perhaps you will tell me yours?" He wagered. 

"Perhaps..." She trailed off, detached.

"I'm Lord Brock. And if you glance over your shoulder now, the man by the refreshments table is Lord Samuel Golbach." He motioned with his head behind her.

Y/N did peak, noting the eyes of Samuel following her and Cole around the room. "Hmm. Interesting."

"May you wish to tell me yours now?" Cole smiled.

"No, I do not." Y/N shook her head plainly.

"I am surprised. But maybe I shouldn't be," Cole spun her, pulling her back into him. "It appears that you resemble me in many respects."

"And what respects are those?" She questioned.

"If I may presume, you seem inclined to forge your own path. You do not heed merely because it was asked of you." He remarked honestly.

Y/N felt her heart skip again, damning her feelings internally as she kept up her charade. "And you have been able to deduce all of this from the mere twenty minutes I've been in this ballroom?"

Cole smirked confidently, "What can I say? I possess the ability to read others well, particularly charming young ladies."

She held back the urge to roll her eyes at his response. While she wanted to beat him at his own game, she didn't want to be rude. "And how well has that worked out for you, my Lord? Since apparently you and Samuel can't seem to find a match."

Hearing Sam's name fall from her lips was shocking, but that alone made him like her more. She was feisty, and he enjoyed that quality in a woman. "Having standards set high has caused some issues, yes. But maybe I will find the one tonight."

"Have you already encountered someone that has peaked your interest?" She inquired. 

"I would say so. It shouldn't come as a shock since you're the only one I've danced with tonight. And the only one I plan to." He brought his face closer to hers, flashing a charming smile.

"How delightful," Y/N mimicked his look. "I cannot say I feel the same, unfortunately."

His face dropped instantly, "I beg your pardon?"

Y/N wanted to relish in this moment for forever, but the music was slowly coming to an end. "Oh, my apologies, my Lord. I thought we were speaking candidly." 

"You... you don't enjoy my company?" Cole stammered. Stammered.

"Well, you are an accomplished dancer and pleasing to the eye and yet... I am unable to see you worthy as a potential suitor." She curtsied dramatically as their dance finished, her mischievous eyes sparkling from the flames of the candles. "My deepest gratitude, my Lord, for being my second dance. If you'll excuse me, I must go see my other suitors, however."

Y/N turned away, swaying her hips sensually as she walked over to Amelia. Her skin felt like it was on fire from where Cole had been touching her. Even though she hated admitting it, something about Cole was mesmerizing. Intoxicating, even. If she hadn't heard what he said this afternoon, she could see a world in which she would fall for him.

But she couldn't focus on that now. She couldn't believe she had actually done it. She successfully rejected one of the Lords.

Amelia gaped, staring at Y/N. "I'm in awe of you, truly. You are a goddess amongst men."

"I feel like I'm going to faint." Y/N grabbed Amelia's arm, keeping her back turned towards the dancefloor. 

"Really?" Amelia pushed her glass to Y/N, who nodded a 'thank you'.

"Sort of." Y/N downed her lemonade, the refreshing citrus drink calming her nerves only slightly. "Is he still looking over here?"

"If by 'looking' you mean casting daggers, then indeed, that is the case. And," she giggled nervously, "try not to faint when I tell you this, but Lord Golbach is making his approach."

Y/N swallowed hard. "You jest."

Amelia gave a weary smile, "No, but I must make my getaway."

She backed away quickly from Y/N, who called out, "Wait, Ame-!"

"Miss Rose, how wonderful to finally meet." Samuel interjected suddenly.

Y/N took a deep breath, spinning on her heel to face him. "Lord Golbach."

He raised a brow at her, "You know who I am."

"How could I mistake a face like yours for any other?" She replied with a sneer tone.

Sam sucked his teeth, her biting tongue captivating him immensely. Ladies hardly ever truly said how they were feeling around him, and it was refreshing to hear such honesty. "I would entertain that notion if Cole had not informed me of disclosing my identity to you."

Her smile dropped, "I would still be able to pick you out in any crowd, my Lord. I would just have to look for the trail of broken hearts and I would instantly find the two of you."

"My reputation makes me sound harsh." He deadpanned.

She held back the urge to roll her eyes, "I think you and Cole are, in fact, harsh. Reputation or not."

A playful grin rose on Sam's face as he reached out his hand towards Y/N. "Dance with me, Miss Rose."

"And if I say no?" She responded defiantly. 

"I will leave you be," he answered. "But what fun you will miss, declining a dance from a gentleman whom you have already passed judgment upon."

She was surprised by Sam's charisma, his almost flirty nature. She politely took his hand, allowing him to guide her onto the dancefloor. Bowing, she steadied herself.. She was not used to this attention, especially from such desirable gentlemen. She knew deep down she shouldn't like teasing the Lords, but part of her enjoyed knowing they found her coveted.

He gazed down at her, inspecting her. "Your gown is quite suitable. You must come from a high ranking family."

"Thank you," she replied plainly. "And yes, some would say that. It helps that I am acquainted with the modiste in town, as well."

"Really? Not many are like you in that way. I've always found it odd how the higher ranking families in the Ton look down upon the working class." Sam admitted.

Y/N nodded, "Truly. It is such a pity. They are no different than us, the only major thing is that we were born into wealth."

"We are all human, after all." He concurred.

"Respecting our fellow man and cherishing the relationships we have and can make should be number one priority. It's a shame how many in the Ton don't see that." She remarked.

Samuel raised his eyebrows, spinning the young lady in time with the music. "You are one of the only women to think so. Many I have courted never spoke of such qualities."

She could feel her skin grow warmer with annoyance, "Interestingly, my beliefs stem from other women I've had the pleasure of knowing. How often do you ask any? Or do you merely go off of appearances and assumptions alone?"

His face dropped, a bitter smile resting on his mouth. "You and I must be similar in that regard."

"Possibly, yes. However, you are the one with a reputation of casting aside women you don't deem fit enough to be courted." Y/N argued, glaring.

He scoffed, "My apologies for having-"

She interjected, "High standards. Yes, I know."

The dance slowly began to end, her grip falling limp in Sam's hold. An anger unlike Y/N had ever felt was bubbling inside of her. Her grace and dignity almost flying out the window when she looked up at Sam, who seemed perplexed by her words. "I thank you for proving my assertions correct."

"And what exactly where they?" He narrowed his eyes.

"Your character is sorely lacking, and I will never want to court or be married to a man like that." Y/N spun on her heel, pure fire filling her veins. She ought to not have become so agitated, but she was unable to restrain herself. While both men played innocent and kind to her face, she knew of how mean they spoke of her mere hours ago. The sole reason they were like this was because of their ignorance of her identity. She had been taught her whole life to be respectful, to both men and women, no matter what ranking they were. And to see such blatant disrespect come from such a high caliber of men in the Ton infuriated her to no end.

This is who was supposed to be the aspiring husbands in the marriage mart? Being a spinster did not sound too bad after all.

Y/N wanted to find Amelia, but decided against staying in the ballroom. She ventured off to the entrance, standing at the portrait. She paced for a moment, trying to calm her nerves. She heard footsteps coming from the ballroom, expecting Amelia to be following her. But two men walked through, Samuel and Cole.

Her eyes widened as she watched them search for her. She rushed up the stairs, finding the closest room and hiding inside of it. It was a study, most likely Viscount Gillingham's. She closed the door swiftly, praying they hadn't seen her do so. She scanned the room, her eyes landing on the window. Fresh air sounded absolutely wonderful to her. She walked over to the window, attempting to open it.

The door swung open, Sam and Cole staring at her quizzically. "What do you plan to do? Shimmy down the garden wall?"

She huffed, turning to the gentlemen. "Do you take pride in stalking ladies or is that just an extracurricular for you both?"

"You have a surprisingly mean spirit for a lady. You must have suitors lining the street waiting for your hand." Cole sassed, stepping into the room.

"Well, as long as you both aren't in line, I shall have decent prospects." Y/N sniveled.

Samuel ranted, "Pray, what precisely is your objection to us? You do not resemble any woman we've previously courted. Why do you harbor resentment?"

"I do not have to have been courted by you to dislike you, Lord Golbach. Perhaps I find your inability to care for a woman's heart atrocious and that alone sparked my malicious feelings." She rebutted, her hands firmly on her hips.

"Did we hurt a sister of yours? Perhaps a friend." Cole responded, almost in jest.

She shook her head heatedly. "No. No. As humorously as that would be, you hurt mine without ever courting me. So congratulations are in order for that feat."

Both of the gentlemen's faces dropped, annoyed. "How?"

"I overheard you, today, at the park. Along with your friend Beaumont. You all had such a delightful time picking apart different women, none of which measured up to your standards for one reason or another." She spat.

Cole shook his head, almost trying to reset his vision. "A-And what is wrong with having standards?"

"There is nothing wrong with that," Y/N grunted. "The problem lies in how you go about finding those standards. Let's not play foolish here: you both know how sought after you are. And you also know that you most likely won't be finding a match anytime soon. So why be out in society?"

Sam’s eyes rolled for a moment. "Are we not permitted to partake in revelry?"

"You can, but not at the expense of women's hearts or reputations!" Her voice boomed off the walls of the study. The room fell silent, the men watching her with wide eyes. 

She continued passionately. "Do you know how completely ignorant it is to badmouth a woman to one of your fellow gentlemen? It is already hard enough as a lady to find a suitable husband when you have every other lady fighting for said affections. But to have fellow men berate and downgrade you as if you are a second-prized poodle is humiliating. Because if you two think that way about me, how else do the other men of the Ton feel? How am I supposed to navigate a labyrinth I had no realization I was in?"

Both men were stunned into silence, but finally Cole spoke. "We should be wiser with our words, yes. But it's not exactly easy for us, either."

"Oh please." She murmured, exhausted.

He moved towards her, shaking his head. "We are told to act a certain way, to be men. The rakish behavior we have to put on is all but a front. At least for him and I. It is exhausting wanting to be open and vulnerable and honest when no one reciprocates those feelings back. So it's easier to put up walls and guard yourself and pretend to be something you're not. But in the end it all hurts the same."

"But you're a man. And not just any one, a prominent one. You could..." Y/N exhaled. "Change what is expected."

"It is not that simple. And it's already a lonely road for those that do not follow what is to be asked of you." Cole paused, swallowing. "I often wonder if a love match is something I will ever find, or if I'm doomed to face a marriage with a woman that is a complete stranger to me for the rest of my days."

She frowned, "Find someone to love, then."

Cole bit his lip harshly, holding back his hurt, "I wish I could. I wish my family would allow that. There are certain expectations I've been destined to meet since birth that I wish I could shake. But it's not as simple as it sounds."

Y/N looked towards Sam, "And what about you?"

"I... I don't know how to express myself. At all," he muttered, stoic and awkward. "This life of mine is not even remotely fulfilling. And I am afraid I am wasting it being someone I never wished to be."

For a moment, Y/N's heart ached for both gentlemen. She stared at them, and they were no longer men, but boys. And for the first time in years, when she expressed exactly how she felt without fear of rejection, she felt like a girl again. The brutal honesty of being a child with no expectations placed.

"I apologize for being so… careless." Her demeanor softened,  "Maybe I shouldn’t have assumed so harshly.." 

"No. Your honesty is refreshing. I don't think anyone has called us out in years." Samuel commented.

Cole smirked, "Or ever, really."

She giggled, and genuinely smiled, for the first time all night. They smiled back, their grins earnest. 

"You have the sweetest of laughs. Almost like honey." Samuel complimented.

She bowed her head, doing her best to hide her blush. "T-That is very kind of you to say, my Lord."

Cole chimed in, the men sharing a look. "May I ask you a question, Miss Rose?"

Y/N nodded, watching them as they drew closer to her.

"Would it be alright if I call upon you tomorrow?" He asked.

Samuel added, "I too, would wish to do that, as well."

Her eyes widened, "I beg your pardon?"

"You are merely unlike any lady I have ever encountered. Unlike any we have met before. And I am certain that both of us would cherish the opportunity to become better acquainted with you." Cole explained genuinely.

"Even after I've insulted you to your face?" She sassed.

"Even more so, yes." Samuel's eyes glimmered mischievously.

Y/N questioned, "Are you sure that would be wise?"

"I would say it's about as wise as you being in a room, alone, with the two of us. Unchaperoned." Cole's voice deepened, causing Y/N's eyes to flutter.

Y/N suddenly became very aware of how close the Lords were to her. Her lips parted, wanting to gasp, but she was rendered speechless. She glanced between the two of them, watching as the space between them and her came to an almost close. Her back was up against the window sill, and she could feel the heat of Sam and Cole's bodies rolling off onto hers.

She closed her eyes tightly, savoring the moment. This was her first time truly feeling stirred by the presence of a man. Multiple men.

"But you are gentlemen." She choked out.

His eyes darkened. "Of course. We would never do anything untoward an honorable young lady, like yourself."

"All you have to do is say so, and we'll stop." Sam uttered huskily. 

Cole spun Y/N to face him, her mouth falling open in surprise. He stared at her devilishly, his eyes taking in every part of her slowly. A breath blew across the back of Y/N's neck, startling her. She glanced over her shoulder through hooded eyes to see Sam, closing the space between her and him. His mouth danced up her neck, stopping right under her ear.

"Do you want us to stop?" Cole whispered softly.

Y/N shuddered a breath, his hands cupping her waist as he stepped closer to her. His mouth was on the other side of her neck, peppering light kisses up and down her throat. Y/N closed her eyes, her chest heaving as her breath fought to catch up. Y/N had had one kiss before in her entire life, right before coming out into society. And she had heard whispers of what... intimacy, between a man and woman was like.

But this was a whole new world for her.

Heat pooled low in her stomach as the men traced their lips over her skin, breathing her in. Sam's hands rested lightly on her lower back, tracing up and down her corset lining. Cole's hands rubbed up and down her bare arms, goosebumps rising in their wake.

Their bodies were firm up against hers. It was almost like a waltz the way the Lords' movements guided her. She was entranced by it all, following their every direction. Then, suddenly it hit her.

She won. And not only did she win, but the clock was very close to midnight. And it was time to leave.

Y/N took a deep breath, something she felt she hadn't done in ages, and slithered her way out from between each man.

"Well, gentlemen, this has been a lovely evening. But I must be getting home." Y/N stated calmly.

Both men were stunned into silence, again, by her. "Wh... What?"

"Did I say something surprising?" She gazed innocently at them, then headed towards the door.

Samuel and Cole stared at her in awe, an almost amused smile resting on their lips. She truly was incomparable.

As she opened the door to the study, Samuel called out, "You must tell us who you are, at the very least."

She paused, her hand resting on the handle. She had considered making her getaway, not letting them know who she was. But part of her wondered what their faces would look like once they knew it was her, Y/N, that left them this way. Hot and bothered.

She untied her mask slowly, holding it delicately in her hands. She turned back to the Lords, gazing at them both.

"Goodnight, Lord Golbach and Lord Brock. I hope you have a splendid evening." She bowed, and rushed out, taking the stairs quickly.

Sam and Cole stood in silence for a while, reliving the moments they had just shared with Y/N. Neither one could wrap their minds about what took place, or that it was Y/N - of all people - that had caused these feelings to occur. Feelings that both men had not experienced in a very long time, if ever.

Sam stuck his hand out to Cole, raising an eyebrow at him. "May the best man win."

Cole smirked, grasping his friend's hand tightly. "Indeed."

The gentlemen knew only one of them would win Y/N's heart. And now it was time to see who could ever conquer such a feat.

[angelswing236]

Lord Gillingham is still pursuing Mary, and Thomas is still trying to get rid of him.

[wonder-worker]

"Henry the Young King, Philip of Alsace and Richard I face the disapproval of Walter Map and share another characteristic as well: they were among the first representatives of the emerging idea of a chivalrous model of kingship. Henry the Young King was the first example of a knight-king and Philip of Alsace was his mentor, while Richard himself cultivated his knightly legend with great success.

As noted by Martin Aurell, the chivalrous identity exhibited by Henry II’s sons represented a political assertion exalting characteristics of ideal kingship that were different from those developed in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, an assertion that became material in the revolts against Henry II. The contrast between the courtly ideal of kingship and the chivalric model is underlined in the words of Walter Map. In De Nugis, the description of Henry the Young King’s revolt launches an explicit accusation at the evil advisers of Henry the Young King who exhorted him to raise followers against his father in Burgundy and Aquitaine, and among the French, Bretons, and Angevin. In reality, the ranks of Henry the Young King’s supporters included a large number of Anglo-Norman lords and subjects of Plantagenet authority whose public image was strongly influenced by chivalric ideology, such as Bertrand de Born and the cousins Robert III de Beaumont, Earl of Leicester, and Robert II de Beaumont, Count of Meulan. Between the eleventh and twelfth centuries, the French nobility adopted the ethic of chivalry as part of its identity, particularly in Normandy where noble families used it to stress their social eminence and origins. During Henry the Young King’s revolt, the chivalric identity became a political one.

Through the ideal of the knight-king, the men who gathered around Henry the Young King and Richard I promoted the survival of, or return to, a system of aristocratic government in opposition to the autocratic model of twelfth-century kingship. This political activity was conducted on many levels within the factional struggles taking place inside the Plantagenet court. John Gillingham has noted that there might have been a Norman or French faction opposed to an English one, a division that did exist in other European courts concerned with the political activity of the Plantagenet kings in the twelfth century. Some members of the French faction, such as Robert III de Beaumont the Earl of Leicester, were the same men who claimed a chivalrous identity and supported the revolts against Henry II. Therefore, the Plantagenet court appears to have been divided between French/Knights supporting Henry II’s sons and English/ Loyalists faithful to Henry II: the image of the knight-king was a political manifesto held up in opposition to Henry II."

-Fabrizio De Falco, Authors, Factions, and Courts in Angevin England: A Literature of Personal Ambition (12th–13th Century)

[angevinyaoiz]

Hiii, I'm a newbie :') Could you recommend me books and documentaries about Richard and Philip, and that period in general (12th century)? I read somewhere that a new book about their relationship came out recently. Thank you <3

Hi! Thanks for asking. Its funny since I still think of myself as a "newbie" in a lot of ways since I just got into this whole mess of 12th Century England/France drama probably around like last December, so there are definitely lots of people who know more (ppl, feel free to suggest anything if I haven't mentioned it)

To my knowledge there aren't any specific books or sources that are just about their interactions (aside from That One Recent Fiction book that is. Well that's it's OWN thing lmao) but since the family affairs of the Angevin-Plantagenets and the French kings were very closely entwined with the rest of the family and various other parties, there's lots of overlap.

I personally love it because on one hand it's Free Soap Opera Entertainment, and on the other, a look at a time and environment that is very fascinating and extremely different than the time we live in now. Here I've listed the different books and video I've gotten around to, my thoughts on them, as well as some of my thoughts on uhhhh historical RPF shipping in general:

Books:

The Plantagenets by Dan Jones - An overview of the dynasty overall. A good general read, and available as audiobook! Should be available in most libraries. I haven't finished it since I've only read up to the reign of Henry III, but it presents the overall timeline in an entertaining and straightforward way, with a lot of general context and room for showing the colorful personalities of these Messy Bitches

Henry the Young King by Matthew Strickland - this is probably my FAVORITE of the books I've read so far! Sadly out of print, but it's available to borrow on The Internet Archive, and copies can be found pretty easily on eBay :) It focuses on Henry II's original heir, the titular Henry the Young King, eldest of his son who was co-crowned with him, rebelled against him, fought against Richard in Aquitaine, and died early. It goes into a study of his person and role in the politics of the day, how kingship and war were viewed in the 12th century and a lot about the weird lord/vassal relationship between the French and English Kings that made up the bulk of the conflict and drama. Very long and comprehensive, but very readable. I came away with a much better understanding of everything from this book especially.

Richard the Lionheart: King and Knight by Jean Flori. Flori has a very entertaining writing style that somehow is very funny to me when he's talking about the interpersonal dramas, especially with Philip during and after the crusades. The first half is a biography, the latter half of the book is devoted to exploring the concept of chivalry and how it developed, and also exploring subjects of Richard's legend and image

He has many amusing but overall respectful beefs with fellow historian John Gillingham's scholarship throughout, especially in regards to the much debated subject of his sexuality.

Richard I by John Gillingham - haven't finished this one yet but enjoying what I've read so far. Gil is more detailed in some aspects, which is pretty fun. Apparently he has a reputation (from Flori) for being a bit too much of a Richard fanboy which I haven't come across yet but he is informative, including accounts from Muslim historians during the Third crusade.

I haven't read as much specific media/biographies about Philip and the Capetians, and thus all my media is very Plantagenet-biased. there is an educational graphic novel in French that looks interesting but I don't have access to it (and also I don't speak French but. Ah well). For my purposes however since the role of Louis Vii and Philip II are very entwined with the story of the Angevins we do get a pretty decent look into people's personalities, decisions and behaviors, and how they viewed loyalty and kingship in a lot of the books above.

VIDEOS

"Britain's Bloodiest Dynasty" timeline documentary centering about King Henry and his drama with Becket and his sons and hosted by Dan Jones (who also wrote The Plantagenets, which I listed in the books section) It's a pretty fun and understandable intro, even if the overly dramatic faux Game of Thrones reenactment is really corny and also hard to see because the lighting is SO dim. It's a little oversimplified and focuses a bit too much on analyzing Henry's Personality as the source of his Issues rather than maybe looking at a wider picture, but it's fun and very beginner friendly.

Confessions de l'histoire - french web series in a reality show "confessional" style about historical figures, there's a video on the 2nd crusade (focuses on Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII's relationship), and one on the 3rd crusade (with Richard and Philip) It's very comedic focused but from what I've watched includes a LOT of detail. It scratches my itch for that goofy edutainment but good quality.

Secrets de Histoire - Alienor d'Aquitaine - this one is also french only but documentary focusing on Eleanor's life . It also has very goofy Reenactors in it with one of the worst wigs I've ever seen, as well as reusing footage from the earlier documentary and other movies loool

"The Place of Battle in the Context of Civil War c. 1100-1217" Lecture by Matthew Strickland about how people viewed (or avoided) Battles specifically in the context of civil wars and dynastic contexts. - I love watching lectures by the authors of books ive read, and this one is both very watchable and provides some great context!

On Shipping

My approach to my yaoi delusions (both in general fiction and in perceptions of historical people) is mostly that i am less concerned about "was XYZ queer FOR REAL," since while I do find serious discussions of historical queer history etc very interesting, a lot of this is more separately blasting my problematic sicko radioactive beam of perception in any direction lol. I like seeing characters who are tied up in a web of context (especially familial/dynastic context) and I love knowing familial-cultural background since it gives me a lot of fun material to work with for characterization. Learning more details the better for me, since a lot of the reality is stranger and more fortuitous than fiction , and thats what makes the characters unique, having so many angles to them. But also in the end, it really is all a delusion informed by my very 21st century fujo inventor taste, and I like keeping that in mind, as a sort of separate category from being informative haha. I could write about my headcanons and how I make things interact with the fictional portrayals, as well as thoughts on eh various problematicisms. But this has gone on long enough. Those are posts for another day...That being said I'm weak for both serious drama behavior and really silly drama behavior and the way people come across in these books especially lend itself well to both .

Hope this was somewhat helpful! I enjoyed reading a lot of this a lot, it's a fascinating subject, thanks for giving me a chance to ramble about it.

[downton-tourney]

S3, E8:

The annual cricket match takes place, Matthew coaches Tom. Alfred complains about Thomas to the police, but Lord Grantham persuades him to retract the complaint. Lady Rose comes to visit and ends up with her much older, married lover. Mary and Matthew discover they both went to the same doctor about their fertility issues.

S4, E7

Robert leaves for America, with Thomas rather than Bates as his valet. The Dowager countess falls ill and is nursed by Isobel. Tom meets Miss Bunting. Rose pursues her romance with Jack Ross while Edith wonders if she should abort. Lord Gillingham and his valet come back to Downton, and Mrs Hughes threatens the latter.

[sir-griswold-of-macelwain]

watching a french movie that's basically happening in a reconstituted 1905 (as in, the characters in it put up the act that it's 1905 to fool a guy) and it just made me think we were so robbed of facial hair in Downton Abbey. DGMW I can't for the life of me imagine Matthew with a moustache or Robert with a beard, and Tom having facial hair is just so absurd... but they should have had facial hair. Not everyone maybe, but... more than just Mr Grigg, Kieran Branson, Durant and Kuragin. Plus Clarkson who's slightly more often onscreen.

anyway here's what I'm thinking of (pictures from wikipedia's list of facial hairstyles page)

"English moustache" for Evelyn Napier, who wants to age himself a bit when he's in the diplomacy while still young, as well as Mr Bates after he arrives in Downton and after he gets out of prison (facial hair as a sign he gets his life back under control, from alcoholism then from prison).

"Friendly Muttonchops" for Harold Levinson, and Tony Gillingham tries them on but ends up not sporting them after Mary makes fun of him.

Imperial Moustache for Carson because come on obviously. Also Carson would have sideburns. Mr Molesley tries to grow them too but it ends up being too high maintenance for him.

A ducktail for Robert after his ulcer burst because he doesn't want to get out of bed to get shaved and thinks it's not worth the trouble, might as well finally grow facial hair. Lord Merton and Anthony Strallan sport that too, but they do it in the early seasons.

Pyramid Moustache for Matthew Crawley. It's discreet and still popular enough that it wouldn't have made him look like a fool. In the trenches, William grows one too to make himself look more respectable and he never really has time to let go of it. Unless there's some policy about servants not having facial hair, that's possible, idk.

Dali Moustache for Thomas Barrow. Self explanatory.

[lapetiteshippeuse]

Okay but in a Modern XXth century AU, Rhaegar would propose Lyanna to take her away with him, in a very proper and classy way, the same way Lord Gillingham proposed to lady Mary to be his lover, living in the Grand Hotel of Liverpool in Downton Abbey.

[ardenrosegarden]

But the real problem comes from the haste with which King John wanted to conclude the rapprochement with Arthur's camp. He could not avoid provoking the discontent of the Viscount of Thouars. For John, the end justified the means. If his strategy was good, at least it had the merit of concluding peace without spilling blood, on the other hand his execution showed poor diplomatic qualities. He did not even offer the viscounts of Thouars any compensation. Roger of Howden leaves no room for implication. Proof that he cared little for the aristocracy. In the eyes of the Poitevins, his promise had been only a lure good enough to appease an ambitious lord; why would it be any different with the others? Finally, John comitted a final awkwardness by formulating his claims even before he had won the game.

John himself brought about his ruin, from the first year of his reign. He removed any confidence that the Poitevins could have in him. Very few historians until John Gillingham have paid significant attention to this episode of John's reign. It was, however, of paramount importance. This event marked the beginning of the bankruptcy of his reign, and the beginning of the decline of the Plantagenet dynasty. John had destroyed the credit he could have with the Poitevins, who, let us remember, were one of the main supporters of his reign. From this discredit, he could never recover. Even more, he aggravated them by taking as his wife the betrothed of the Count of la Marche a few months later. The most serious thing for him is that beyond the Poitevins he was going to lose the confidence of Arthur de Brittany's party definitively. The Viscount of Thouars, quickly taking the offensive, convinced Arthur, his mother Constance, and Guillaumes des Roches to flee with him and leave the city of Le Mans the same night. This flight was the premise of a coalition between Poitevins and Bretons, of which the viscounts of Thouars were the leader. Shortly after, an alliance was organized between the house of Brittany and that of Thouars, concluded by the marriage of Guy de Thouars, the younger brother of Aimery VI and heir to the viscountcy, with Constance, the heiress of Brittany. For the first time since 1169 the Viscounts of Thouars countered the interests of the King of England. The period of neutrality and submission to the authority of the Angevins was well and truly over. The lords of Thouars regained the initiative of their foreign policy. Having regained their power, and their allies, they again had the means and the capacities to assume it. Already, from this year 1199, during a donation made to the abbey of Saint-Jouin de Marnes, Aimery VI was surrounded by many vassals, his Poitevin allies, such as the Lusignans and the greatest ecclesiastical personalities of Poitou. Moreover, the Thouarsais lineage had grown from the house of the Dukes of Brittany. Armed with all their power and prestige, the Viscounts of Thouars could now challenge the King of England himself.

-Jean-Philippe Collet, Le combat politique des Plantagenêt en Aquitaine : l’exemple des vicomtes de Thouars (1158-1199)

[legends-of-time]

The Journey of Living at Downton

Chapter 41: Late September to Early October 1924

Masterlist

Everyone has gone a flutter ever since Edith's sudden flee from Downton the day before. Even Rosamund is coming up from London to see what she can do to help. It all seems strange since Tony Gillingham, Charles Blake and Mabel Lane Fox are all staying as guests and Atticus, his parents and Lord Merton are coming for dinner this evening. No one knows anything except the fact that she seems to have gone to London.

Emma is happy that work pulls her away from it all for most of the day yet she knows she'll have to face it all at dinner.

Emma's suspicions about the little girl that lives with the Drewes at Yew Tree Farm Edith has been so fascinated are heightened when Tom tells her how Mrs Drewe had suddenly turned up at Downton asking for an audience with Cora.

——

Emma comes walking downstairs, dressed for dinner with Mary that evening and is surprised to find Mrs Hughes waiting for them in a corner of the Hall.

"Ma'am? M'Lady?" The housekeeper calls to them. "I'm sorry to bother you."

Mary and Emma halt and turn to talk to her. It's funny to hear Mrs Hughes address her like this but Emma knows she's simply being proper in front of a member of the family that employs her.

Emma gives her a warm smile. "You're never a bother Mrs Hughes. What can we do for you?"

"It may have slipped your mind, but do you both remember I gave you a train ticket when we came to London for Lady Rose's ball?" Mrs Hughes questions. "It was a return ticket that I found in the pocket of Mr Bates' overcoat."

Mary and Emma share a look. "Of course, we remember." The former replies.

"I don't suppose you put it anywhere for safekeeping?"

Emma frowns in confusion. "Why?"

"Because we were wrong." Mrs Hughes explains. "Far from proving that Mr Bates went to London on the day Mr Green died, it proved he didn't. He bought the ticket in York but changed his mind and that's why it was never given in."

Emma's heart drops to her stomach. "It wasn't proof of his guilt but his innocence?"

"That's about the size of it."

"I'm afraid I burnt it, Mrs Hughes." Mary admits guiltily.

"That's right. She told me so." Emma adds. She feels sorry for Mary. She had done what she thought was the right thing.

There's movement by the front door, and the Sinderbys enter with Atticus, with Mr Molesley leading the way.

Just then Rose comes downstairs, too. "Atticus!" She calls excitedly then comes skipping down the stairs to greet the guests.

Mary and Emma exchange a last look with Mrs Hughes, but they have no choice but to leave the matter unresolved and join Rose. They walk towards the guests, too.

"Hello." Rose greets Atticus, who beams back at her. She turns to his parents. "Lord and Lady Sinderby, hello."

"Rose." Lady Sinderby says with a smile.

As always, she's the one with the social graces while her husband looks grumpier than when he did at the races, at least then it wasn't obvious but now he looks as if he disapproves of absolutely everything and everyone.

Rose turns to Mary and Emma as they come up beside her. "Oh, you know Emma Branson and my cousin."

"Of course! We were in awe of your courage yesterday and it'll lovely getting to know you better too, Mrs Branson." Lady Sinderby says warmly.

Emma plasters on a fake smile to cover up the dread she's currently feeling. "Likewise."

Mary too plasters on a smile. "Well, courage or foolhardiness. Come and see Mama and Papa." Mary leads Atticus' parents towards the Drawing room with Emma trailing just behind, happy to have the chance to drop the fake smile now none of the guests are looking at her though she sees Thomas casting a concerned look in her direction. Rose and Atticus bring up the rear, wrapped up in their own world.

——

The large dinner party is assembled – Robert, Violet, Tom, Rosamund, Emma, Isobel, Lord Merton, Mary, Lord Sinderby, Cora, Charles, Rose, Atticus, Billy, Mabel, Tony, and Lady Sinderby.

Emma smiles softly when she glances across to where Rose and Atticus are laughing together. At least something is going right tonight.

Rosamund, sitting in between Tom and Emma begins quizzing them about their plans for the future. "Have you decided at last whether you are leaving?"

Tom lets out a slight chuckle. "'At last' is the right phrase," he says, glancing at Emma before turning back to Rosamund, "but we want to make sure we are doing the right thing."

Emma remembers how worried and concerned he was when he first approached her with the idea of writing to his cousin, from America.

"The worry is disrupting Ivy and Michael's lives and regretting it." She speaks.

"You know they all want you to stay?" Rosamund points out.

"That only makes it more difficult." Tom says.

Emma agrees but she wonders if this might be their chance to find themselves again. A new life. A step towards their and their children's futures.

She is startled when Isobel, sitting on the other side of her, claps her hands to get everyone's attention. Everyone looks at her surprised.

"I have a little announcement." She announces with a smile.

Lord Merton leans towards her. "Are you sure?" He whispers.

"I am."

Is this what Emma thinks it is?!

Isobel turns to the table at large, "You might like to know that Lord Merton and I have decided that we should get married."

People all around the table gasp and laugh excitedly. Some say comments of congratulations.

"Well, this calls for a toast." Robert rises and takes his glass. "I give you Mrs Crawley. Or should I say, the future Lady Merton?"

All rise and raise their glasses. "The future Lady Merton!"

Isobel accepts the toast with a smile. "Naturally, it was the last thing I ever thought would happen."

Everyone chuckles.

"I forced her into it." Lord Merton quips.

"He wooed me into it, and I'm terribly pleased he did." Isobel says.

Everyone takes their seats once more. Another something is going right tonight.

——

The dinner party are having their after-dinner coffee in the Drawing room, attended by Mr Carson and Mr Molesley. The men have already joined the ladies.

Emma is sitting at one end of the settee, talking to Mary and Charles, who sit on the chairs nearby when she overhears Cora talking with Lord Merton on the same settee.

"I'm sorry if I seem distracted, but I'm truly so happy for you both." Cora says.

"I thought I'd give a dinner, so she can meet my sons." Lord Merton says.

Mary joins the conversation, "Well, she has met Larry before."

Lord Merton lets out an awkward little laugh. "Let's hope she's forgotten."

"Why don't we do it here? We could invite Granny and everyone." Mary suggests. "You are my godfather and Isobel is the grandmother of my child."

Emma's face scrunches up in distaste. "Are you sure that's wise?" She worriedly glances over to the other side of the room where Billy and Tom sit and chat with Isobel. "You do remember how Larry treated Tom and Billy?"

"Oh, but it has been years since then." Mary dismisses. "Please let's. It seems only right, Mama."

"Of course. If you'd like." Cora says to Lord Merton.

"Oh, that would be very kind. A signing of the bond between our families." Lord Merton remarks warmly. Let's hope so...

It's not long before the Sinderbys move towards the door, saying their goodbyes.

"They're so easy in each other's company. Anyone can see it." Emma turns to see Charles nodding towards Mabel and Tony, looking like they're thoroughly enjoying each other's company, at the card table, from where he sits next to Mary and Emma.

"But he won't let me go." Mary complains.

Emma lets out a snort. "As if you'd let him go easily. I'm not part of whatever this plan is to get him off you, but I can see that you refuse to make it clear that you want him to."

"She's right." Charles agrees. "Just as he's moving off, you tug his strings." His voice turns firm. "Send a clear message and he'll go. I promise."

"What is that message?" Mary asks.

"We'll think of something."

——

Cora and Rosamund leave the next day to go to Gregson's, now Edith's, magazine office in London in a new attempt to find Edith.

Robert is at the writing desk with Tom when Emma and Mary enter through the Small Library. Emma has the evening shift today.

"Did they get away?" Robert asks when he spots them.

"Just about. The train was late, thank heaven." Mary replies. She hands them some business papers. They still are looking at the plans for the renovation work on the cottages.

Emma leans over and kisses her husband on the cheek.

"And it isn't going to be Tony?" Robert asks. Oh, Robert...

"I don't think so."

"Nor Charles."

Emma laughs. "He decided that before she did."

"Well, well." Robert rises from his chair. "I don't suppose your ancient father's opinion on these matters carries much weight."

"'Fraid not."

Emma remembers something. "Oh, Mary, you said you wanted to visit your grandmother." She gives Mary a pointed look, a reminder of what they discussed earlier.

"Yes. We should go."

Emma and Mary leave. Emma kisses her husband as they depart.

——

Mary and Emma are paying their call on Violet. Spratt is serving them tea as they sit around the table in the Drawing room.

"How are you, Spratt? Well, I hope." Mary says to the butler.

"Everyone has their troubles, M'lady." Spratt comments sounding irate.

"Oh, dear." Emma comments.

"Spratt has been helping to train my new maid, Denker." Violet explains.

"I'd say she takes after the dachshund, M'Lady, Ma'am." Spratt retorts. Seems all the drama's happening here.

"In what way?" Mary asks.

"She's quite untrainable."

"Spratt." Violet's tone matches the one a mother would use on their child.

"Will there be anything else, Your Ladyship?" There isn't. He bows and leaves.

Emma raises an eyebrow at Violet, trying to hide how much she wants to laugh at the whole situation. "You sure this Denker is worth it?"

The look she receives from Violet tells her she's not hiding it well.

Mary bypasses this and says, "Oh, you must put dinner on Friday into your diary. That's when Dickie Merton's coming with his sons."

"Yes. I wonder if it is a good idea." She rises and walks over to her desk.

"Thank you! Someone seeing sense!" Emma exclaims.

"Well, Isobel has got to meet them some time." Mary argues. "And Larry won't make trouble for Billy again. Not with Sybil dead, which means Tom will be left alone too."

"Let us hope." Violet retorts, her back now to them as she sits at the desk.

Mary and Emma share a look and the former turns in her chair to face Violet. "Granny, we know why you're finding this difficult."

"Do you?" Violet asks, trying to sound surprised. Emma doesn't think she's very successful.

"Yes, but you mustn't give in to it."

"What? Give in to what?"

"Isobel has always been your protégée." Mary explains. "She looks up to you, and you have kept her from harm in return."

"Have I?" Violet's unbothered and confused façade isn't holding up.

"Yes. So of course, it's difficult that she is to take her place among the leaders of the county."

"Why? Why is it difficult?" Violet asks, not looking at them but instead focusing a bit too intently on whatever she's writing about.

"You needn't pretend. Your positions have changed - you, the widow in the Dower House, Isobel a great lady presiding over a great house. But you simply have to be bigger than that."

"Is that what you think of me? That I care about her change of rank?" Violet looks almost hurt.

Emma sighs. "Well, you haven't been acting very pleased, have you?"

"No. But that is not the reason."

"Then what is?" Mary asks.

"Well, if you must know... I have got used to having a companion. A friend. You know, someone to talk things over with." Violet admits softly.

"Well, you'll still have us." Mary tries to reassure her.

"You have your own lives. And so, you should. But Isobel and I had a lot in common. And... I shall miss her."

Emma knows she's being more honest than she ever has. Emma herself feels almost tearful after the Dowager's speech. She hadn't realised that perhaps Violet's struggles might not be as superficial as they first thought.

"Granny, you're quite dewy-eyed. I never think of you as sentimental." Mary remarks in an almost joking way.

Violet chuckles. "Nor am I. You've made me regret my confidence." She gestures at the table. "Do have some cake. And for your information... I don't think Isobel has ever looked up to me."

Mary and Emma share a doubtful look.

——

Emma and Tom decide to take Ivy and Michael on a walk, to spend time with them and bring up the idea of moving across the Atlantic.

They reach a bridge and begin playing Pooh sticks. Tom and Ivy hold their own while Emma and Michael share one.

"Now, we drop the sticks in together when I say. Ready? Go!" Tom cries.

They drop their sticks. Tom picks Ivy up and carries her to lean over the railing on the other side. Michael squeals happily as Emma mimics a plane as she carries him over to the other side.

"Where are they?" Emma questions excitedly. "There it is."

"It's me! It's me!" Ivy points widely at her stick.

"Me! My stick!" Michael yells excitedly.

"Yes. Now make a wish." Tom tells them.

Ivy and Michael both squeeze their eyes shut and make a wish. Emma smiles softly at her children. Tom runs his head over her hair, then leans on the railing next to her. The two of them share a look, Emma gives a nod and Tom takes a breath, turning to their daughter.

"Darling, you know Aunt Edith has gone to London?" Tom asks tentatively.

"Yes."

"Only, we were thinking... We wonder, what if we were to leave here and to go and live in a place far away across the sea? What would you say?" Emma asks.

"Why?"

"Well, because... it might be better for us to start a new life there." Tom explains.

"Why?" She's picking at the moss on the railing.

"Because... Because I hope to God, we're doing the right thing." A bell chimes in the distance. "That's the stable clock. We'd better get back." He lifts Ivy and the rabbit into his arms, and Emma and Michael follow them as they all walk away.

Mary tells Emma that evening that she's going to London this afternoon as part of the plan to get Tony off her back and will stay for the night. Emma is mildly jealous that she's going to a cinema. It's been so long for Emma that she sort of misses it.

——

Emma comes home from work that Friday evening to hear the worst news imaginable. Isis has cancer and it won't be long now. Robert hadn't wanted her to be put down by the vet and had taken her back to Downton where she could pass peacefully.

Emma is happy to see Edith has returned but is very curious to hear that now she'll be adopting the child she's been so fond of from the farm. Apparently, the Drewes could no longer afford to look after their friend's child, so Edith offered to adopt the girl herself. What matters though is Edith is seeming the happiest she's been in a while.

"So, what do you think, about the child Edith wants to adopt?" Tom asks her as he sits on a chair in their room, already dressed for dinner while Emma is just doing her hair in the mirror before they go down.

Emma pauses for a moment before trying to continue as if unbothered. "Marigold? What do you mean?" She doesn't turn around, hoping not to give away her thoughts. Tom of all people wouldn't judge but she'd hate to spread rumours about whether they are true or not.

"I don't know, it's strange the whole thing. Do you think something else is going on?" He questions.

Emma turns away from the mirror and shrugs. "Whether there is or isn't something, it doesn't matter. At the end of the day, this will make Edith happy and give the child a good home and opportunities. We should now that better than anyone."

Tom sighs and gets up. "You're right. Do we really have to go to this dinner?"

Emma smiles sympathetically at him. "Trust me, I hate it as much as you do but we can't do anything, and we need to be there for Isobel."

Tom strides over to her and wraps his arms around her. "Why do you always say the right thing." He smirks down at her.

Emma returns it and shrugs. "Because I'm always right."

"Mmm. I suppose once this is over, we could spend some alone time together to celebrate getting through the trauma we're about to experience." Tom remarks darkly.

Emma smirks. "Maybe."

He leans down and gives her a deep kiss.

——

Emma, Tom, and Billy give Larry, as well as his younger brother Tim, a wide birth during the time in the Drawing room before dinner and thankfully the two brothers kept away from them but once it was time for dinner, they couldn't really avoid them for much longer.

Atticus has joined them, sitting next to Rose. Tom and Emma sit at the same end of the table. Billy thankfully isn't sitting next to either brother as well. Tim sits next to Isobel at the other end while Larry is across from her.

Violet leans across Emma and Tom to talk to Rose, "Rose, have you written to your mother about Mr Aldridge?"

Rose grimaces. Emma doesn't blame her from what she's heard about Rose's mother. "I have now."

"And will she approve?"

It seems a rather rude thing to ask in Atticus' presence if they're not even officially engaged yet, but Atticus takes it with good grace.

"Don't be disappointing, Aunt Violet, please." Rose rebuffs.

"I promise you; we know difference in religion is a big thing." Atticus adds.

"Quite right." Larry butts in. Oh, no. "How would you bring up any children, for example?"

"Children? When did this happen?" Robert quips in an attempt to break the tension. Everyone laughs. Emma only grimaces, knowing Larry likely isn't done.

"I'm talking hypothetically." Larry retorts. "The fact is, most marriages that fail founder for precisely this kind of reason. An irreconcilable difference."

"Or maybe they just don't get on." Mary counters.

"No, I'd agree with Larry. It's usually more than that." Tim argues.

"It might be different beliefs, or different nationalities or a huge age gap. It the end, they cannot see eye-to-eye." Larry continues.

The others are exchanging disquieted looks, knowing where exactly this will be going.

"I don't see what you're getting at." Lord Merton says, but he does cast a pointed look at his son.

"You mean to marry Mrs Crawley. Well, she seems very nice, and I wish you both every happiness." Larry says, smiling at Isobel.

"Thank you." Isobel says.

But then Larry's smile turns nasty. "But that doesn't prevent me from seeing the wide disparity in class and background may prove your undoing."

Robert looks astonished at his remark. "What did you say?"

"Only that Mrs Crawley, a decent middle class woman with neither birth nor fortune, is expecting to fill our mother's shoes as one of the leaders of the county. Is she capable of it? Or will her inevitable failure prove a source of misery to them both?"

Isobel listens in silence, thunderstruck by so much rudeness.

"You know Mrs Crawley's late son was my heir?" Robert says angrily.

"What does that prove? Everyone has distant cousins who are fairly odd." Larry replies dismissively.

Mary looks ready to murder Larry and honestly, Emma isn't feeling too far behind.

Lord Merton takes it upon himself to end this horrible scene. "How dare you. Will you go, Larry? I had to make excuses for your rudeness the last time you sat at this table. It is tiring to think I should be called upon to do so again." He says to Larry, in an admirably calm tone.

Larry looks unperturbed by his father's words. "I know the choice of in-laws is eccentric in this family. You already boast an engineer and a chauffeur and soon you can claim a Jew, but even so—"

Emma feels a rush of wind when Tom jumps up from his chair, making the plates rattle. "Why don't you just get out, you bastard!"

"And suddenly we've slipped into a foreign tongue." Violet remarks, but nobody protests or takes Larry's side.

Larry gets up as well. "Well, if that is how you feel?"

"I do not endorse Tom's language, but that is certainly how we all feel." Robert replies forcefully.

"Then, Lady Grantham, goodbye." Larry says to Cora before looking out at the rest of them disdainfully. "And thank you for a delightful evening." Mr Molesley holds open the door as he walks out, leaving a terrible silence behind him. Isobel is close to tears, and so is Lord Merton.

Tom takes his seat and Emma immediately reaches out and squeezes his hand. He smiles at her thankfully.

——

Dinner wraps up soon after that with the guests leaving early. Honestly, Emma doesn't blame them, particularly Isobel.

"You're not angry with me, are you?" Tom asks Emma when they're back in their room.

Emma looks at her husband, confused. "Why would I be angry? You told that twat to shove it and I couldn't be more prouder."

He grins. "Well, then." Tom gathers her up in her arms and gives her a deep kiss. They hold the embrace for a few moments before Tom pulls back, a thoughtful look on his face.

"What?"

"I can't help but feel sorry for Isobel, the way those bastards humiliated her." Tom says. Emma smiles softly at him, once again he reminds her of how empathetic he is.

She reaches up and strokes his forehead until the frown lines ease. "She'll get past it, we all will. We just have to be there for her."

Tom nods. "You right."

He kisses her again and they tumble onto the bed.

——

That night, Isis sadly passes away.

——

A/N: Please leave comments on how you're enjoying this story and what you think.

[agir1ukn0w]

so like I really don’t care if you think Henry and Mary got together too quickly or whatever, but if you’re going by that logic then she definitely couldn’t have ended up with Lord Gillingham because a) his shitfuck valet (who he probably would have fired anyway if he ever found out what he did to Anna) and b) WE ONLY SAW THEM TOGETHER FOR LIKE A WEEK ON THE SHOW!! So criticize Henry and Mary’s quick-ish courtship and marriage all you want, but pls if you’re going to do it keep it to your own damn tags so the rest of us can enjoy these ships/characters in peace.

[mozzzz05]

Can I just say how boring and annoying Tony Gillingham is?

Not to mention what a shit rider he is.

[ladymarycrawleyofdownton]

Downton Abbey 5.01

I’m rewatching season 5 and I love it. I’ve missed these characters so much. Mary was so in control of her life here, she was determined to marry again but only to the right man, and I love that.

[angelswing236]

Thomas has to face an evening with the Crawleys and a handsy Lord Gillingham.

[arresteddownton]