Jim Carter - Tumblr Posts
“as closely as two people can”
(unfortunately my video was blocked by youtube, so here it is)
FANTASTIC NEWS THIS MORNING! Thanks, Jim, for making our day! DOWNTON ABBEY 2.0!!! CarsonxHughes!!!!!
The Ultimate Guide to Downton Abbey … a few select pages
#CarsonxHughes
https://youtu.be/M-2wpxL2QSk
“We’ve turned our mattress this morning”
🤣🤣🤣
Jim Carter on This Morning, 11 March 2021
@belovedrival Yes, yes it is!
The image is from the 1995 film Richard III. Jim plays Lord William Hastings and Maggie Smith plays Richard’s mother, the Duchess of York.
Fun fact: Ian McKellen (born 1939) plays Richard III and was also writing and producing the movie, when he asked Maggie Smith (born 1934) to play his mother. So there is actually less than a 5 year age gap between them in real life, despite them playing mother and son.
Maggie Smith and Ian McKellen in as mother and son in Richard III (1995)
This was not Maggie Smith’s first foray into playing a character far older than herself though - for example she played 92 year old “Granny Wendy” in Hook (1991) when she was only 56.
Maggie Smith as Granny Wendy in Hook (1991)
Enjoy the smiles on Jim Day!
(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p97xThiNy4)
I laughed way too hard at this!
In case anyone else clicked the link, heard that snippet of the podcast interview and were desperate to hear the full thing (which is sadly no longer available on the Masterpiece website or its podcast archives, nor are any of the other Downton Abbey episodes):
All episodes, including all Downton episodes and indeed the Carson/Hughes episode, are all still (at the time of this being posted) avaliable on the host Jace Lacob’s website: https://www.jacelacob.com/podcasts
Just scroll down to the very beginning and there they all are. Nearly all the first 22 episodes are Downton based and include interviews from both cast and crew. Happy listening!
Carter didn’t reveal who received the “vulgar” postcard, but he did say what it read: “Mrs. Hughes is quite enthusiastic. Please excuse the wobbly writing.”
'Downton Abbey': Jim Carter and Phyllis Logan Talk the Carsons' Honeymoon
Is this the actual postcard they sent or is this fan made? The stamp looks to be George VI, so it isn’t accurate to the time (not that it matters, especially for a joke). I was just wondering the photo’s origins, if anyone knows.
A wonderful short film written by Tom Bidwell and starring (among others) Samuel Holland, Jim Carter, Rory Kinnear and Jodie Whittaker.
This is just so cute…<3
Oh the absolute joy that I feel at seeing these two again 😊
Source
“Rather indecently, I finish by asking whether Carson and Hughes share a full “physical” relationship. “Do you really want to go there with your fevered imagination?” Jim booms. “Carson was most concerned about his conjugal rights but I think we should probably draw a veil over it.” He pauses and then, with true Downton timing adds: “I like to think they spoon.””
— https://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/films/1227394/Downton-Abbey-Julian-Fellowes-Jim-Carter-Phyllis-Logan-tv-film-saga-tv-news
La Alfombra Roja del Estreno Mundial de 'Wonka': Timothée Chalamet, Calah Lane, Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant y Keegan-Michael Key en el Estreno en Londres.
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-You're such an old curmudgeon -Don't say you're going off me. -No. Because you're MY curmudgeon and that makes all the difference
Now that I'm in my summer holidays I can re watch Downton Abbey, and fall in love all over again with this two. I wish I could marry someone who is just like Charles Carson. He's such a gentleman, and to have such a big man beside me would make me feel so safe. ❤❤❤
A change in life- Chapter 1 (It’s also in Fanfiction.net and Archive of our own)
Elsie finished lacing her corset; put her clothes on and after brushing her hair she went downstairs. Lord Gillingham was visiting Lady Mary, again, and his valet Mr. Green had set his eyes on Anna for the second time. Mrs. Hughes had promised herself she wouldn’t let him touch her again like he did a year ago. She had sworn she would try and spend most of her time near him, making sure any of her maids suffered what Anna had suffered, she even thought about spending all her time with him even when he went to the bathroom. Anything for her girls.
But Mr. Carson had sent her up to change when accidentally he spilled a glass of wine all over the front of her dress. She had told him it was okay, that since the dress was black nobody would notice it and tried to go back to the room with Mr. Green, but he had insisted and she finally gave up and went upstairs. As quickly as she could she managed to put something else on (a black long skirt and a cream blouse, for she didn’t want to button up any of her dresses, she would lose some precious time) and brush a few stranded brands of hair away from her face before going back downstairs.
To her horror Mr. Green had left the room, and she managed to run downstairs. There was no one there, and for a few seconds she wondered where everyone was, before she remembered that it was dinner time, and probably everyone was upstairs. She breathed a bit more calmly and walked to her Sitting Room. She walked to her desk to find a note of Mr. Carson saying that all the servants had been asked to join the party upstairs and that they were waiting for her. She laughed slightly at the thought of Daisy being able to go upstairs with the rest of them.
She turned around to see Mr. Green leaning on the doorframe with a wicked smile on his lips. Mr. Hughes’ smile disappeared from her face as he walked a little closer to her, closing the door.
-Mr. Green, do you need anything?
-Oh, I just thought we might spend some time together, since everyone is upstairs.
-I was just going upstairs to join them, so if you will excuse me.
She tried to move closer to the door, but he didn’t let her. He grabbed her arm and sat her on the desk.
-Mr. Green let me go!
-Mrs. Hughes, you are confusing me.
-Confusing you? What are you talking about?!- She tried to get down, but he didn’t let her, he pinned her arms behind her back and moved his face closer to hers.
-You haven’t let your eyes leave me since I came. I know I’m a very sexy man…
-What are you talking about?! Let me go!
-Scream; go ahead, no one will hear you. Nobody heard Anna.
-Let me go! Now! I’m sure someone will hear me; it won’t be the same as with Anna.
-So you know? And you didn’t tell anyone? You are a good girl… Elsie.
-Don’t you dare use my name!- He kissed her cheeks, her jaw…
-You are beautiful, does your butler… Charles… show you often? Does he make you scream like I’m going to?
She screamed for help, but Mr. Green covered her mouth with his, keeping her quiet. She struggled to get out of his grip, but he was too strong for her. She was starting to panic, but she couldn’t do anything. She fought, but he wouldn’t let her go.
-Elsie, why are you fighting? If you stop I won’t hurt you.
-Go to hell!
He slapped her so hard she fell backwards and off the table, hurting her back so badly tears filled her eyes. Mr. Green walked to her and took her hands, and slowly placed her in the middle of the room. She couldn’t move, couldn’t fight, so he took it as a sign to go on. He ripped her blouse, finding her corset and the pale flesh of her chest. The pain was starting to subside and she was starting to breathe better so she moved her legs and kicked him. He fell next to her so she stood up and tried to run to the door. She had her hand on the doorknob when she felt two hands on her hips, separating her from the door and throwing her to the floor again. He slapped her again, bruising her, took her shoes off and ripped her skirt. Her hands tried to slap him, but he moved every time, and soon he grew tired of her attitude and tied her hands to the wall.
-Now, behave and you won’t get hurt… badly.
-Why are you doing this? – She was in pain, but she managed to speak.
-I just want to, now, don’t ask any more questions and behave. – He placed himself on top of her, untying her corset.
-Get off me!
She tried to kick him so he kissed her. He tried to open her mouth, but she wouldn’t, she tried to move her head away, but he took her head between his hands. He tried to open her mouth again, and since he wasn’t getting lucky he took extreme measures. With his hands he opened her corset, and placed them on her breasts. She moaned, and hated herself for it. He kissed her again, and this time he managed to open her mouth. She found it disgusting and bit his lip, but to her dismay he bit her lip back and it drew blood from it. She yelled in pain, but he didn’t care, he took her stockings off. She took advantage of this and kicked him, but she knew there was nothing she could do. He coughed a bit and ripped her knickers off. She wanted Charles, and it made her cry. Mr. Green looked at her, wiped a few tears and kissed her, unbuckling his trousers and opening her skirt.
-Don’t cry Elsie, I will be out of here in no time. You have behaved more or less. Just make sure to compare me to that butler of yours the next time he makes love to you in this room.
These made her cry even more and scream louder, asking for help. He didn’t bother; he let her scream as he entered her and started moving. He didn’t even try to prepare her, he just moved, harder when he wanted, slower; he could feel her reaching her climax. She didn’t want, she wanted all this to end, but she didn’t want to find any kind of pleasure on these, and thank to the Lord she didn’t. He finished before she reached it, and she sobbed as he pulled out and cleaned himself in her skirt.
-See, it wasn’t that bad. Now, go upstairs, wash and put something on.
-I will tell the family, and you will be out of a job before you know it.
-Are they really going to believe you?
-Yes. Her Ladyship has always believed everything I’ve told her because I have never lied to her.
-Then I guess I can’t let you do that.
He opened drawers until he found a letter opener. He walked to her and placed it on her throat. She breathed heavily and opened her eyes widely. He placed the letter opener in her arms and nodded. As he moved it across her flesh blood came out, making her scream.
-Does it hurt? Oh who cares, you won’t breath a word about this. You will be dead. You are good, what a shame.
He cut her more times, all over her arms, her legs… He cleaned his hands on her skirt and stood up.
-It was very nice to see you again Mrs. Hughes. I hope I won’t see you again.
He closed the door after getting out and she found herself crying uncontrollably. She screamed for help, but no one came. Not even Charles. Soon she didn’t have the strength to scream, so she cried in silence thinking of Charles.
A change in life - Chapter 2 (It's also in Fanfiction.net and Archive of our own) Anna walked down the corridor, hoping to find some peace, when she saw something coming out from under a door. She kneeled in front of it and saw that it was a pool of bright blood. She felt her heart stopping and run upstairs. She opened the door making everyone turn to look at her. -Mr. Carson, is everyone here? -Of course Mrs. Bates -And the staff? -Yes. Everyone is… -No Mr. Carson. - Daisy cut him- Mrs. Hughes in not here. -Oh my God! -What's wrong Mrs. Bates? -There's blood in the corridor downstairs, and I can't open the door. Mr. Carson's face turned white as he run downstairs, knocking off everything that was on his way. He stopped in front of Mrs. Hughes' Sitting Room and tried to open the door. -Elsie? Open the door! Elsie, please! No one answered him so he quickly smashed it open and his world just as he knew it shattered. Elsie was tied to the wall, with her mouth a bit open. Charles could see her legs perfectly, that had cuts all over them; her breasts, because her blouse was hanging from her shoulders, completely ruined; and her pale arms which had cuts all over them. Her shoes where on the other side of the room, her knickers laid next to her, or what was left of them, and something that looked like her stockings laid against the desk. A pool of bright blood surrounded her, and Charles felt how his own blood left his body. He run to her and tried to hear her heart; after a few second he felt it. Hope rose inside him and he found it hard to stay calm. He carefully untied her, placed her against his chest and turned to face Anna. -She's still alive, but not for long if you don't run for Dr. Clarkson. Anna run upstairs and left them alone. Charles run his hand along her cheek. -Please Elsie, open your eyes. Just that. Please. I love you. – After a few seconds she opened her blue eyes and looked at him. - That's it, don't close them, alright? – She nodded slightly. – What happened? Who did this to you? -I'm… I'm scared. – Elsie's voice was nothing more than a whisper. -Don't be. I'm here, and I'm not leaving you. What happened? -I… I was… attacked- She stopped for a moment, feeling tears running down her cheeks, before continuing. – But… does it matter… now? I'm going… going to die -No, you are going to be alright. I can promise you that. -I was scared Charles, but… but you said you… you loved me, and… and I want you to know… that I love you too… before I die. -Elsie Hughes, you are not going to die! You can't leave me. I want to marry you and have children with you, even though you might think you are too old, we can still try. And I can't do any of that if you are dead. -You want… to marry me? The… old housekeeper? -Yes. That is why I love you, because I know you can be rigid, and I've seen you being cold, but I want to see you as a real mother and as my wife. -Why didn't you… tell me this before? -Because was afraid that you might not love me. -I wish we could… have had more time to… to spend together. -Don't say that. – Charles was fighting the tears that were about to fall down her cheeks, as he tried to stay as calm a she could. He tried not to break down. – Please, don't say that. -Charles, be realistic… I'm… dying- she tried to move her head to look at him, but she wasn't strong enough. -No! – Charles' tears run freely down his cheek. – You are not going to die! You can't die. Whoever did this to you is going to pay for it. Her ladyship stood against the doorframe, watching them. Her heart ached with love and sadness. The scene in front of her was horrible and at the same time beautiful; he was holding her, crying, trying to keep her awake. Suddenly heavy footsteps were heard in the corridor, so she turned and breathed in relieve when she saw Dr. Clarkson and Lord Grantham walking in her direction. She moved away from the door. -What happened? - Dr. Clarkson kneeled beside them and took her wrist in his hand. -She was attacked. I don't know anything else. He nodded and took one of her arms in his hands as gently as he could. He took care of the wounds (Charles had to take really good hold of her because she tried to back away from him, screaming in pain), covered them in bandages and took care of her bruises and swollen lip. -Mrs. Hughes blood type is A positive. She needs a transfusion right away. Do any of you have that blood type? If you don't we will have to take her to the hospital. -I do. - Charles was looking down at Elsie, who was pale as a sheet. -Then take her to her room and I will prepare everything there. Charles took her in his arms as gently as he could and carried her. He placed her slowly on the bed and looked at her. She was all covered in bandages, some of which were already red from the blood that was still trying to leave her body. Her Ladyship helped Charles and Anna take her clothes off, wash her (Charles left the room to give them as much privacy as he could) and put a nightgown on. Dr. Clarkson entered the room, took a long transparent tube from his bag and attached it to the needles that were in their arms. Soon blood left his body and joined hers. -She lost blood, but not enough to die. I want someone with her all the time in case she needs something. I want to know, when she's ready to tell you, what happened. For now let her rest and in two hours ask Mrs. Crawley to take the needles off. He looked one more time at her and left the room with the saddest look on his face Charles had ever seen. -Carson, if you need anything just tell me, I'll be right outside. -My Lady, you should go back to the party. -No, I couldn't possibly go back now. Lord Grantham and I will be outside. -Thank you My Lady.- She closed the door leaving Anna with them. -Mr. Carson, with your permission I would like to go downstairs and tell everyone about the situation. -Of course. Tell them she's alright. - She nodded and left the room with tears in her eyes. -You see? You are going to be alright. Just fine. – She opened her eyes and smiled lightly at him. -I can see that. And I would like you to… propose to me, since you said that you wanted to marry me. -I have the ring in my room, if you wait a minute I will ask her Ladyship to bring it. Just close your eyes and wait. Lady Grantham! – He waited for her to open the door. – My Lady, I would like to ask a favor from you. -Yes, of course. -There's a ring in a red box in my closet, would you mind bringing it? -Not at all Carson. - She run to his room, took it from the closet and run back to him, smiling. - I will leave the door open, if you don't mind. – She whispered. He nodded. -Elsie, you can open your eyes now. - She slowly opened them and saw a beautiful golden ring resting inside a red velvet box. – Elsie Hughes, I've loved you since the first day you came to Downton Abbey wearing that old dress, that smile on your face and in your beautiful blue eyes. I remember that I asked you, as a gentleman, if you wanted me to carry your luggage, and you almost slapped me telling me that you could do it. Since then I knew we would get on just fine. I know that Lady Sybil's death hit me harder than I thought it would. I was really grateful that you were there for me. You are the only are who knows what I like, what I hate and were my loyalty stands. I've always taken care of myself, and the only thing I want right now is to be able to grow old with you, to be able to have children with you, even If you still think you are too old, we could try; and to see that you can take care of me when I no longer can. Because life hasn't been kind to you and you deserve a little bit of happiness, Elsie Hughes, I'm telling you that I love you, that I would shout it on the streets of Yorkshire if I had to. I adore you as much or even more as I adore my own life. That is why I'm asking you to marry me. Elsie's eyes were filled with tears as she listened to his words. When he finished his little speech they were running freely down her cheeks. -I never thought I would hear such words from you Charles. -I just want to take care of you, like I'm doing now, for the rest of our lives. -If I could move I would kiss you. -I think I can do something about that. -Be careful with the needles. -Don't worry. He sat on the bed carefully, placed both hands on her face and was about to kiss her when suddenly she turned her head. He saw the look of fear in her eyes. -I'm sorry Charles, I didn't mean to pull away like that. I really mean it. He looked at her. Her swollen lip, the bruises in her arms, legs, waist; he remembered her ripped knickers, her stockings, her blouse, the skirt and how disgusted she looked with herself. -You were raped. – Lord Grantham and Lady Cora approached the door and looked at each other with shocked faces. -I just… didn't want… you to… -You were raped. – He repeated simply. -I'm sorry Charles. I wish I were dead. Anna was near the door and when she heard those words her mind went directly to Mr. Green. She run to the room. -He did it again, didn't he? Elsie turned to see Anna standing next to the bed. -Who? Do what? – Charles' blood was boiling, and he felt his cheeks and ears turning red. -Mr. Green. Elsie screamed and covered her face with he hands, crying. -Mr. Green raped you before Elsie? -No, Mr. Carson. He raped me. -Why didn't you tell us?! -Mrs. Hughes knew it. She is the only one. -Then how did he manage to rape Elsie?! -God, Charles, you are making it sound as if it is my fault! – Elsie was angry and scared. -I'm sorry. I didn't mean to give you that impression. But… how did it happen? -He walked into my Sitting Room. I tried to leave, but before I knew it he had closed the door and had lying on the floor. I tried to escape, but he wouldn't let me go. He tied me to the wall, ripped my clothes and… and… - tears run down her cheeks. -And then he raped you. God Elsie, why didn't you tell me this before? -Well, now you know. -And… how did you get all those cuts? -I told him I would tell the family, so he was making sure I took this secret to the grave. He looked at her marvelling at her strength, at how she had managed to survive such a horrible thing. Before he knew it she hid in his chest and cried. -It's okay Elsie, cry as much as you want and need to. Anna was crying too, with her hands on her mouth. Elsie's experience had been much worse than her own. She turned around to see Lady Cora and Lord Grantham, the first one with tears in her eyes, standing there, looking at each other, so she slowly closed the door. Charles held her until he felt that's he had stopped crying, then he looked down at her. Her blue eyes were red, and he could see the rivers the tears had caused. -Elsie, don't worry. I'm not leaving you and if you think that this is going to stop me from marrying you, you are wrong. -You still want to? -Yes. Don't worry about this, I'm sure her Ladyship and his Lordship will take care of it. -What if he comes back? -Then he will have to deal with me. She smiled at him and rested her head against his chest. This was just a warm embrace between them. -You are very good to me Charles. -You deserve it. No sleep my love; I will stay with you from now on. I will take care of everything when Mrs. Crawley comes. -Charles, could you give me a sweet kiss? -I'll be careful with your lip She felt his warm breath against her mouth as he slowly pressed his lips sweetly over hers. He tasted like wine, and she tasted like honey and chocolate. She slowly closed her eyes, placed her head on the pillow and soon she fell asleep. He laid next to her, looking at Elsie with a small smile.
A change in life - Chapter 3 (It's also on Fanfiction.net and Archive of our own) Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months, and Mrs. Hughes wounds were healing nicely, the ones in her heart slower than the ones in her skin. Mr. Green had been arrested the next day of the incident, and they were waiting for the trial that would send him to jail forever. Mr. Carson had notice she wasn’t eat in the mornings, and that the basket that was next to her bed was being washed every day, and he was afraid she might have caught an infection. Dr. Clarkson used to come once or twice a week now to check on her and Charles was waiting for today’s visit to talk with him. He was pacing along the corridor when he heard heave footsteps coming up the stairs. He turned to see Dr. Clarkson and Anna at the end of the corridor walking in his direction. -Thank you very much Mrs. Bates, you may return to your duties. - She nodded and run downstairs. – Dr. Clarkson, before you see Mrs. Hughes, I would like to talk with you. She’s hasn’t been having her breakfast for a few weeks now, she has been getting gill in the mornings and she’s very tired. -Mr. Carson, you know what all those symptoms mean, don’t you? -An infection no? -Could be, but there’s a bigger chance of her being… being with child Mr. Carson. -With child? That’s impossible, her childbearing years passed long ago. -Let me examine her before jumping into conclusions. He nodded and let him enter the room. He focused his eyes on the doorknob and swallowed his feelings, thinking about what Dr. Clarkson had just said about a child made his blood boil. His sweet Elsie couldn’t be expecting a child that belonged to a disgusting human being who had tried to kill her. He just couldn’t bear the idea of her having to spend the next nine of months or less carrying a child she might never be able to love. After several minutes the door opened and Dr. Clarkson came out closing his bag. -How is she Doctor? -Her wounds are much better; she should try and walk a bit around her room. But don’t let her overdo it. -And does she have an infection… or… well? -I’m afraid, Mr. Carson that she is with child. I’m sorry. -Did… did you tell her? -I had to. She was shocked, so I think you better go inside and talk with her. If there are any problems call me. -Thank you Dr. Clarkson. -No need to thank me, it’s my job. Carson… Charles, she means a lot to you, so please, stay with her, by her side. She will need help, so don’t be like other men that leave their wives or girlfriends after being raped and in consequence getting pregnant. It’s not her fault; she was trying to protect someone she loves. -I will never leave her Dr. Clarkson, never. -You are a good mean Mr. Carson. I’m glad she has you. He squeezed Charles’ upper arm and walked down the corridor. Mr. Carson opened knocked and opened the door. -I’ve talked with the Doctor. – He walked to her bed and sat in his usual chair, next to her. -What did he tell you? Is it going to be a murderer or a rapist? -Don’t say that Elsie. I’m as shocked as you are, but it’s not the child’s fault. I was worried it might be an infection that could kill you. -This is not better than an infection, is it? I’m going to become a mother out of wedlock, to a child whose father tried to kill me and raped me... I’ve been wondering if I should have stayed in Scotland. -Please Elsie, don’t say that. -It’s the bloody truth Charles! This is what I feel, and I can’t run away from it, and neither can you. -No, we can’t, but we can make the best out of it. -What do you mean? -We will have this child, and I will be its father. -But what if the baby is born before we are married? Who will restore your honor? -Nobody will restore it, because I don’t need it. I don’t care what they will say about me. -I wish this baby were yours Charles. I really mean it. -I know Elise, but we can’t change how life works. -I hate it. Why did this have to happen to me? I’m old, this shouldn’t have happened! I shouldn’t be pregnant! I had made up my mind about children! -Elsie, I think you should rest. -Rest?! This – she pointed at her belly. – is not going to change by resting Charles! -You are right. Nothing is going to change. -Oh, don’t patronize me Charles- She looked at him with an angry look on her face. -Alright! – Charles stood up and closed the door with such force that it was heard in the library. - What do you want me to say?! Do you want me to tell you that it’s true and you should’ve never left Scotland?! That you should have stayed in your bloody farm in Argyll being hit and raped by a possible disgusting husband like Mr. Burns?! Tell me, do you?! -Don’t talk about Mr. Burns like that; he would have never done that. -Be realistic Elsie; he would have done it. You can’t run away from the truth. -Don’t talk to me about that and like that! -Then about what do you want me to talk?! About your loveless heart?! About how stupid I was of falling in love with you?! What an idiot I was for giving my heart to you. – He was red and breathing heavily, looking at Elsie, who stared at him with a shocked expression on her face. -Leave… Mr. Carson. – Her throat was tight and she could feel tears forming in her eyes. -I haven’t finished. -Yes you have. Leave at once or I call for Mr. Barrow. – She turned her head and looked out the window. -Fine. I’m leaving. But let me tell you this: we are too different, and a marriage would never work. The wedding’s off. He was angry, so angry he opened the door and slammed it close once he was out. He heard her crying, but he didn’t care, or did he? He felt his heart breaking slightly. He lifted his head and found her Ladyship looking at him. -Carson, is everything alright? I heard you yelling and… -My Lady, there has been a change of plans. Everything has gone wrong. -I don’t what you mean Carson. -She’s with child. -Oh my God! What are you going to do? -You mean what is she going to do? I have nothing to do with that, so I will return to my duties, if you don’t mind My Lady. -Carson? -We are not going to get married, so the child will be her problem. Now if you will excuse me My Lady. He walked downstairs feeling stupid, empty, angry and sad. Deep inside he knew he would regret everything he said in a few minutes. Anna found Lady Cora standing in the corridor with a shocked expression on her face. -Is something wrong My Lady? -Mrs. Hughes is pregnant and Mr. Carson just cancelled the wedding. -Oh my God! She must be scared to Death. -I don’t doubt it. Mrs. Bates, better go downstairs. I will have a little chat with Mrs. Hughes. She nodded running downstairs. Lady Cora knocked and opened the door. -Mrs. Hughes, may I come in? -Of course- She dried her eyes with the corner of her sheets. Lady Cora walked to her bed. – Anything I can help you with My Lady? -No. I understand you and Mr. Carson had a fight. Was it because he found out you are pregnant. -No My Lady. He was worried I might have an infection, so he told Dr. Clarkson. We wanted to take care of me and my child, but I behaved like a stupid woman. -I’m sure it wasn’t just you. -We both said things we shouldn’t have. And everything is over. -I’m sure this is just a fight. If Lord Grantham and I had finished everything because of a fight we would have never gotten married. -But the wedding’s off My Lady. -Give him time. He will come back to you in no time, and you will see that everything is okay. -What if he doesn’t come back? -He will. Men always come back after some time of thinking. No need to worry. No rest, don’t forget there are two of you now. Elsie nodded, resting her head against her pillow and closing her eyes. Once she was sure Elsie was asleep she left the room, closing the door quietly. She walked downstairs looking for her husband or Mr. Carson, whoever she found first. She entered the library and found both, one standing next to the door and the other one sitting comfortably on the couch. -Carson, may I talk with you for a minute? -Of course My Lady. -Carson, she’s very dear to you, isn’t she? -She is nothing to me but a pain My Lady. -Perhaps a pain in your heart? -What do you mean My Lady? -Carson, she loves you, but she’s scared, she has been raped and she just found out she’s with child. I know you are both tired, but you can’t finish everything because of an argument. She needs you, and if you think that she’s trying to back away from you, she’s not doing it on purpose. She has a cauldron of feelings right now inside her, but she knows she loves you. And she needs you. -Perhaps you are right My Lady. I said a few things in the heat of the moment that I shouldn’t have. -Just let her adjust to the little one. Okay? -Of course My Lady. -And one more thing. -Yes My Lady? -You are getting married next week. -So soon? -I’m sure neither of you want that baby to be born out of wedlock, do you? -Of course not. We talked about that. -Then it’s settled. -I’ll tell her -She’s resting so please don’t wake her up. Charles nodded and quickly left the room. He felt stupid and he was sure she felt the same way. He walked to her room, opened the door and walked inside closing the door. He sat in his chair watching her. She looked beautiful in her sleep; her cheeks were a beautiful shade of pink, her auburn curls were spread all over her pillow and a small smile on her lips. He kissed her cheek. -I’m sorry. It was the last thing he said before lying next to her on the bed. He was so in love with this woman. His woman. * * * No one knew where the butler was, not a single clue. Everyone was looking for him, but he was nowhere to be found. They were afraid he had left Downton and Mrs. Hughes. Mrs. Patmore and Daisy were looking for him in the attic, but found nothing, so against their better judgment they decided to tell Mrs. Hughes. They both knew it would break heart, but it was the right thing to do. -You keep quiet girl, let me tell her. She knocked lightly and opened the door to find Elsie lying in bed with Mr. Carson’s arms around her body and her head resting against his chest. They were both sleeping. -I think we found him, Daisy. -Should we go downstairs and tell her Ladyship? -Yes. Tell her just what we saw. They closed the door and run to the library. Everyone turned to look at them. -Any news Mrs. Patmore? -We found him My Lady. -Where? Where on Earth is he? -In Mrs. Hughes room -What were they doing? -Sleeping, holding each other. -Didn’t I tell Robert that they would make up? – Lady Cora moved closer to Lord Grantham and kissed his cheek. -Should we wake them up My Lady? -No Daisy. Let them sleep. * * * Mrs. Hughes heard the door close and opened her eyes to find Charles sleeping soundly next to her. -Charles. – She called him quietly, but he didn’t react to her words.
A change in life - Chapter 3 (part 2) * * * Mrs. Hughes heard the door close and opened her eyes to find Charles sleeping soundly next to her. -Charles. – She called him quietly, but he didn’t react to her words. -Hmmmmm…- was al she got in return. -Charles, shouldn’t you go back? – He moved and opened his eyes. -The Doctor said that he wanted someone with you all the time, and that’s what I’m doing. -I appreciate it, but… -No buts. Elsie, don’t say anything right now, okay? Just listen for a minute. I’m sorry about the things I said about Mr. Burns. I shouldn’t have. It’s been hard since the incident, and finding out you were with child and that it wasn’t mine… I was angry for not being there to protect you, and I feel as if I’m paying the price now. I love you, and I know that you will get tired of hearing it, but I won’t stop telling you. -I should apologize too. -No, you shouldn’t -Why shouldn’t I? -Because is not your fault- She smiled and kissed him lightly -Oh, I almost forgot, her Ladyship has told me that we are getting married next week. -Next week?! That’s too soon. I won’t have time to find a dress, and with the bruises and the bandages I won’t look like a bride. -You will, even if you wear that horrible yellow dress you will still look like a bride to me. -I knew you didn’t like it. The look on your face every time you see me wearing it; the way you to try to trick into buying new dresses… I could have guessed it with my eyes closed. -Her Ladyship will take care of everything. -I was wondering… why don’t we get married… today, her in my room? -You don’t want a big wedding? -Maybe after the little one is born. -If that’s what you want that’s what we’ll do. – They stayed in silence for a bit. -Are you sad because the baby is not yours? -In a way. It’s complicated. I’m not angry with the baby, it’s not its fault, and I’m not angry with you. I want Mr. Green to go to jail and to get hanged. -Charles! I’ve never heard you say something like that! -It’s the truth. -To be honest I want to it too. Not just for me, but also for Anna. -Everything will be alright. -Yes, and it’s almost dinnertime, and you haven’t chosen his Lordships wine. -Oh Lord! I’ll be right back. Wait here. -Do you think I’m going to go somewhere? -It’s just an expression. -I’m sure. Now, go before they start looking for you again. He kissed her sweetly and left the room. Elsie looked out the window, placed her hands on her tummy and looked down. -Hello little bean. I’m your mum, and I want you to know that I love you, and that that sweet man that just left is going to be your daddy. I will never tell you about the bad man that hurt me, because I will never consider him as your father. Never. Your daddy is a very dear man that works with me and who I know will take care of us. I love him very much, and he loves you too
A change in life - Chapter 4 (it's also in Fanfiction.net ans Archive of our own) Elsie looked at her corset and sighed. She was 16 weeks pregnant, and she was bigger than her Ladyship when she was pregnant with Lady Sybill. She couldn't possibly wear any of her dresses now, and that had brought her almost to tears. She was sitting on her bed, in her nightgown, and she was already late to breakfast. She heard a knock on the door. -Come in. – She put her robe on and sat on a chair that was next to the window. Charles came in and closed the door. -Elsie, we are waiting for you, why aren't you dressed yet? -I don't have anything to wear that fits me! – She started crying and placed her hands on her face. -Alright…- He run to her and hugged her. – No need to cry. Why don't you wear one of your skirts, and your white blouse? -My skirts don't fit either. – She looked up to his face and dried her tears. -Okay, then… Wait here. -Where are you going Charles? -In a bit you will see. Just wait here. He kissed her cheek, left the room and walked downstairs, to the library. He knocked lightly and after hearing Lord Grantham he entered. -Something you want Carson? -I'm afraid we have a slight problem My Lord, and I was wondering if Lady Grantham would be so kind as to help me. -What's the problem Mr. Carson? – Her Ladyship sat next to her husband. -Mrs. Hughes is upstairs, crying, because none of the clothes she has fit her. Do you have any idea as what to do My Lady? -I was waiting for this day. – She stood up, left the room, leaving a very confused Carson standing there, and after several minutes she came in with two footmen carrying a big trunk, which they left on the floor. - Inside this trunk is your solution Mr. Carson. -What's inside the trunk My Lady? -Mrs. Hughes' new clothes. I went the other day shopping with Lady Mary, and we saw this beautiful black dress that we thought would look great on Mrs. Hughes, and we decided on buying her clothes. We know she doesn't have much money, and she will need it for the little one, so we decided on doing this. It includes: dresses, skirts, coats, new underwear, blouses, shoes, stockings and a big surprise I'm sure she will love. Now, take it upstairs, we will be having breakfast soon, and she was the one who insisted on going back to work today. -This is… This is so wonderful from you My Lady. I will take upstairs right now. Thank you. – Charles smiled at her and quickly told the footmen to take it and to follow him. Once upstairs they left it on the floor and went downstairs. Charles opened the door to find Elsie just where he had left her. He smiled and took the trunk inside. -What is that Charles? -Well… Your new clothes. -My what? – She stood up and opened the trunk. The first thing she saw was a beautiful black dress with an elastic band in her waist that could be adjusted as they baby grew. She took it out and placed it on the bed to look at it more closely. It had small decorations all over it, and it was a knee length dress. -Charles, how did you… This must have cost a fortune? -I wouldn't know, her Ladyship and Lady Mary have taken care of your entire wardrobe. You have new skirts, dresses, shoes… even underwear. -Underwear? – She walked over to the trunk and after moving a few boxes and packages she found a blue box from the lingerie shop. She took it out and opened it. -Charles, I couldn't possibly wear this! My bosom wouldn't be supported! – She showed him a peach color bra with elastics. – Well, I think it might be supported in this… The elastics would help. Oh, please, look at the knickers Charles! My belly is going to fit in this! – She smiled brightly and laughed. -Do you like the clothes? -I love them. They are beautiful. The problem now is what do I wear? -I think that the first dress would make your belly look beautiful. -If you wait here while I put my underwear on and then you can help me with the dress. -I will choose the stockings and the shoes while you are in the bathroom. Just be quick, the staff must be starving. -Thank God I did my hair an hour ago. I will be right back. Could you put everything in the wardrobe while I'm away? She kissed his cheek and took the blue box with her. Charles took things out of the trunk and put them placed them carefully in the closet. Soon the trunk was empty except for a white package. It had a small card attached, and it said just one word. Surprise. -I'm here. Give me the stockings. – Charles lifted his head from the white package and instead of giving her what she had asked for he gave her the package. -They must be a really expensive pair of stockings. – She opened it and opened her mouth widely. - Charles! This is a baby blanket. – She looked at him and then back at the blanket. It was white, with the corners in silver color and with small teddy bears embroidered.- Did you buy this Charles? -No. Her Ladyship got it for you. It was a surprise. -It's beautiful, remind me to thank her Ladyship, but now we have to go downstairs, so give me the stockings and the shoes. You button the dress up. – She left the blanket on the bed and took the stockings from Charles hands. She quickly put them on, and Charles with steady and warm hands buttoned the dress up. She put her shoes on, took the bottle of perfume and put a few drops of it on her wrists and behind her ears. -Lets go. I'm starving. – She closed the door after Charles. -So no morning sickness anymore? -No. It finally passed, and I'm very happy that I don't have to see the basket next to my bed anymore. I was starting to hate it. Have you found it difficult to run the house without me? -Not at all. Anna has proved to be an excellent possible housekeeper, but she will never be as good as you. -Flattery will get you everywhere with me Mr. Carson. -I certainly hope so. She laughed slightly and once they reached the end of the stairs she took a couple of deep breaths and followed Charles to the Servant's Hall. They stood up as soon as they saw Mr. Carson and started whispering as soon as Mrs. Hughes set foot on the place. -Please sit down. As you can see Mrs. Hughes is back, and I hope you will be helpful and treat her as if nothing had changed. -Things have changed Mr. Carson. – Thomas looked from his face to her belly, which could be seen perfectly through the fabric of her dress. -Nothing has changed Mr. Barrow. -Then I suppose that if she gives birth in her Sitting Room you won't have to be notified. Nothing has changed. -Mr. Barrow, I'm warning you; I won't stand any of your foolishness from now on. Mrs. Hughes is healthy and so is the child, and I refuse to hear any more jokes about this. -Mr. Carson, I refuse to treat her as the housekeeper she used to be. She's Mr. Green's little whore, and she's carrying a little bastard… -Mr. Barrow, don't you dare say anything about my wife! I won't have you insulting her! If I hear one more word you will be out of this house before you can finish your sentence. -Wife?- Alfred looked at him. -Yes, we got married a few weeks ago. Now lets have breakfast. Thomas looked at him in a challenging way before sitting down. The tension eased a bit, and he sat down once Elsie was in her chair. Charles gave her a reassuring smile before he started eating. -Mr. Carson, - Anna left her fork on the table. – can I tell her? -Yes. This will be the best time. -Mrs. Hughes, Mr. Green has been convicted, so he's going to jail. They didn't want to move you from your bed, so Mr. Carson testified in your behalf, I testified, and a girl from town too so the judge didn't doubt it for a minute, and he was sent to jail this morning. -Oh, Anna! - She looked at her before she turned to Charles. – Oh Charles! -I knew you would be very glad. -He won't be back then. We are safe. -Yes. – He looked at the table. - You better start with your duties. And as for you Mrs. Hughes, - He handed her the keys. – welcome back
A change in life - Chapter 5 (it's also in Fanfiction.net and Archive of our own) -Elsie Hughes stop eating the cookies! Mrs. Patmore took the tray of chocolate cookies from the table and placed it on the counter. Elsie sighed and bit the last cookie she had stolen. They were in the kitchen, Mrs. Patmore baking, and Elsie sitting in a chair, chatting. The maids, the footmen and Daisy had been allowed to go to the fair, and Elsie, who had a backache because of her 27 weeks belly, refused to go, and since Charles didn’t want to leave her alone he had asked Beryl to stay with her. He was going to town to see a cottage, and if he liked it he would come back to Downton with the keys on his pocket. -I’m sorry, Baby wants the cookies, and I can’t let my little one down, can I? -Elsie, you’ve had 23 cookies. You are going to get sick! -No, I won’t. You should ask Charles how many pickles I had yesterday. He stopped counting at 29. -You are not going to have a child; you are going to have a crusher -Oh, Beryl, you are no fun. Come on, give me the tray. -No. From this moment on you are going on a diet. -You wish. Do you know when Charles will be back? -He said he would be back before six. It’s five thirty. -I hope he comes soon. - She had a weird look on her face and her hands on her belly. -Elsie? -It will be over once the baby moves. – She whispered, closing her eyes, and putting a bit of pressure on her belly. – Come on, move. Move. Move… There. – She took a deep breath and patted her belly lightly. – You’ve been giving me a hard time lately. You better calm down a bit. -Elsie, what’s wrong? -Nothing, Baby was just stretching, and he or she sent my stomach upwards, right under my lungs, and it hurt. -Don’t scare me like that. I thought you were going to give birth right here. – Elsie laughed and stood up, rocking her hips lightly forward and backward. -When I give birth you will know. Did you want to go to the fair? – Elsie placed one of her hands on the small of her back and with the other one she took her cup of tea from the table. -Not really. If I had gone I would have ended up watching Daisy, and the poor girl wouldn’t be having as much fun as she is having right now. -I’m sure Thomas is having fun, being away from me, at least for a few hours. -Don’t mind him; he’s just a stupid young man. -Charles has been watching him closely, he’s afraid he might… hurt me. -Hurt you? That boy wouldn’t kill a fly. He’s manipulative, and he might blackmail people, but he wouldn’t hurt anyone. -Charles is not that sure. He wants to protect me and Baby from him and from everyone he thinks could harm us. He doesn’t want to feel guilty if something happens. He still has forgiven himself for not being there when all the Mr. Green incident happen. -I’ve heard you talking in the middle of the night. -Yes, he suddenly wakes up from a nightmare and hugs me. He always has the same nightmare. Mr. Green hurting me and him not being able to do anything. He watches us, but he can’t stop it. I don’t know when all of this is going to stop. -Well, I just found out Charles Carson is human. – Elsie laughed and started walking a bit around the kitchen. -He’s more human than what you all think. He has been so protective and supportive since we got married. -Excuse me if my question seems a bit bold, but have… you know… done that? -Yes, we have. Just once. -And? -He was so sweet and loving all the time that I didn’t think of Mr. Green, not even once. No memories of that night came to me. The memories come back mostly when I’m in the shower. When I look down and see all the scars in my arms and legs. But it’s over, and I’m not afraid. -I’m glad you are not afraid. -I’m not scared anymore. I think it’s because I have now a big bear whose arms embrace me and keep me safe. -Well, Mrs. Bear, I’m very glad, but get away from my tray of cookies. - Elsie had walked slowly to the counter. -I’ll take just one. -One after another. -Oh Beryl, you don’t trust me. Tell me, what can I eat? Suddenly two strong arms covered Elsie’s eyes. She smelled wine and cinnamon, and felt a ring in the left hand of the person who had covered her eyes. -Why don’t you stop eating for a bit, and start thinking of possible names for our brand new cottage? Charles mover his hands from her face and showed her a dark key, smiling. Elsie jumped from happiness and hugged him. They had a house for themselves now. -Oh Charles, I’m so happy. I’m so so happy. Even Baby is happy. – She took his free hand and placed it on her belly for him to feel Baby’s feet against the fabric of her dress. – How does it look like? -It has a green door, a very big garden, it’s made out of stone, and it has plants all over it. It’s beautiful. -Oh Charles. I can imagine you in the garden, and the house. Oh Charles! -Why don’t you take your purse and your coat and we go and see the house? We can take Mrs. Patmore too. -Mrs. Patmore… And who else? -Well… perhaps Her Ladyship and Lady Mary would like to come too. It’s possible that I said something about the house to them. -I’ll get my purse, you get my coat. – She left the kitchen. -You might want to take those chocolate cookies. – Beryl pointed at the tray on the counter. – She’s been eating them all evening. -Tell me Mrs. Patmore, how is she? -She’s perfectly alright Mr. Carson. You can stop having those nightmares now. She’s not afraid anymore. -I was worried, now I think I will start sleeping better. -Until she reaches her eight month of pregnancy. I believe you won’t sleep then. Any slight pain, any movement, anything will make you call Dr. Clarkson. If one day I don’t see you in Downton it might be because she locked you in a closet. – Beryl gave him the bag of chocolate cookies. -Her Ladyship is waiting outside with the car, so we better hurry. Mrs. Patmore took her coat and her hat as Mr. Carson took Elsie’s hat and coat. They run upstairs to find Elsie waiting for them on the front door. -Come on. I want to see my house. Our house. – Charles handed her the coat and the hat and waited for Mrs. Patmore to go out to close the door. -My Lady, you don’t mind if Mrs. Patmore joins us, do you? -Not at all Carson, but we must hurry; we want to have dinner with Mrs. Crawley today. She got inside the car and helped Mrs. Hughes into it; Mrs. Patmore refused any help and got inside all by herself, well by herself and with Mr. Carson’s’ hand on her back, otherwise she would have fallen. When they were all settled the driver drove away. -I see you are enjoying your new clothes Mrs. Hughes. -Very much My Lady. They are very comfortable, and beautiful. Baby enjoys them too, mostly the dark blue skirt with the dark blue blouse. It allows him or her to kick and move without being seen by anyone, just me. -I can’t wait until you wear the dark green dress we bought. – Lady Mary smiled at her. – But you are still a few weeks away from that dress. I’m sure it would look beautiful. -I’m very sure My Lady. -Have you decided on any names yet? -We are still arguing about that My Lady. – Charles took Elsie’s hand on his. -We are not arguing. I know very well what names I like; it’s you the one who doesn’t like them. -I refuse to call my daughter Lucinda. Sounds horrible. -We could call her Lucy. -I prefer Joanna. -I don’t want to call my daughter Jo, or Anna. I would prefer to call her Rose over that. -Carson, Mrs. Hughes, this is a happy day, don’t start arguing. -I’m sorry Lady Cora. -Oh look, we are here. The car stopped in front of a fence, and the driver helped everyone out except Mrs. Patmore, who again refused any help, and who ended up in Lady Mary’s arms. There were trees that covered the house, so Elsie couldn’t see anything. -Elsie, close your eyes and take my hands. I will guide you. -Don’t let me fall. -Never. She took his hand on hers and closed her eyes. Charles walked to the fence, opened it and walked with Elsie through a path up to the house. -Open your eyes. She did as told and gasped. The cottage had a green door, as Charles had told her, and it was made out of bricks, but it was big, and it had four big windows on the front, two of them in the second floor. Plants made their way up to the roof through the walls of the house, giving it a fairytale look. The roof was orange and curvy and the chimney could be seen from the floor. -Charles, this is the most beautiful cottage in the whole world. -I thought you would like it. Would you like to go inside? -Yes. Yes. He opened the door and held it open for her. Smiling she walked inside, followed by Lady Mary, Lady Cora and Mrs. Patmore. The hall was small, but enough for them, with a white ceiling and cream walls; to the right was the stairs and to the left the living room. She walked inside and placed a hand on the chimney. She looked around the room; it was big, enough for a desk, two sofas and a few things more, with the same cream walls and white big windows. She looked to the right and saw a wooden door that linked the living room with the dining room. She opened the door to find a big room of white walls and the kitchen with a stove, an oven… everything you needed for a kitchen. -Do you like it so far? -It’s beautiful Charles. -Then let’s go upstairs. – He opened another wooden door that was in the right wall that linked the kitchen with the hall. They walked upstairs to find a corridor with four doors. Elsie doubted a bit but went for the door that was in the right. It was the Masters bedroom, and it was bigger than the room she had right now in Downton. It had cream walls, a big white window and a chimney. She saw a white door in the left and we she opened it she found the bathroom, with everything in white porcelain, the bathtub, the sink… -The other bathroom is more or less like this one, and the other two rooms are a bit smaller than the Master bedroom, but enough for a nursery and a guestroom. If you want to see them… -No. I think I can imagine how they look. -Then what do you think. -Charles, I love it. It’s perfect. – She kissed him. -I have something for you, come downstairs. -She followed him to the living room. -Charlie! – A beautiful metal crib stood in the middle of the room, with a white mattress, a blanket under it that reached the floor and with little pink and blue bows all over the crib’s bars. -Welcome home Mrs. Carson. – He went up to her and hugged her. -Charlie, this is beautiful. – She placed her hands on the crib feeling the cold metal. – I just… God it’s beautiful. – She felt tears in her eyes and running down her cheeks. -Why are you crying? -Because it’s beautiful, and I want the bag of cookies you have in your pocket. -Of course Mrs. Carson. You can eat as many cookies as you want in your house. -We have a house Charlie. This is our house. – He gave her the bag. -The Carson’s Cottage. – She bit a cookie and looked down at the crib