In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: The Dark Raven on 12-12-2010, 19:27:54</h2>
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				Title: <strong>In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>12-12-2010, 19:27:54</strong>
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				The scrape of stone upon the wooden floor grated in her ears, the scent of cloying alcohol burning her eyes, as she scrubbed the scullery floor by the scant light of a candle-end.&nbsp; It was deep into the winter night of Durham, the snow piling up outside the vaulted manor windows as the chill seeped through the stone lintels.&nbsp; She alone worked deep into the night to prepare for the young master's birthday celebration three days hence.&nbsp; The master of the house had ordered the preparation of the celebration as a surprise for his young son, wishing something special for the boy since the death of his mother.<br><br>The arrival of the fair-haired maid weeks after the lady's death had eased some of the load on the other servants, aggrieved at the woman's passing.&nbsp; The young woman had taken on the duties of a housemaid and had worked tirelessly to keep the home clean while the others were allowed their grief by the master of the house.&nbsp; Hired by the Housekeeper, she had never seen the lord of the manor.&nbsp; Apparently his business ventures kept him away, but had not in earlier days.&nbsp; <br><br>Setting the stone aside, she took up the broad floor brush and dipped it into the pail beside her, beginning to scrub away the filth the stone had brought to the surface.&nbsp; Softly humming to herself in a light soprano, Meg Montgomery continued to work, oblivious to the shadow in the doorway, watching over her work.&nbsp; Whether a figment or a reality, the slender young woman's form continued on, cleaning almost out of a muscle-memoried habit, the brush scrubbing roughly against the soapy floor.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>13-12-2010, 03:00:46</strong>
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				Alexander stood in the shadows looking down at the woman scrubbing his floors. Preparing for the party that was coming soon. Sighing slightly he lifted his hand brushing his fingers through his hair. Why was she here? Did she remember this place? This house, he had brought her here years and years ago, and he had made sure it was clear she was not to return, but then, who knew if she even realized where she was, the house had changed much, with their son born, and more with his wife..gone.<br><br>He hadn't known at first, not until a day he came home early from his work, and had seen her cleaning the living room. He wouldn't of recognized her at all, if his son didn't bear a resemblance to his birth mother. The line of his jaw, and the color of his hair, the line of his cheek bones. They were much like this woman's the woman cleaning his floor for his son's party. His fingers clenched slightly, wondering why, why she was there, was it some cruel game? Some joke? Did she come back after his wife died to torment him, to remind him of his wives ultimate failure, one he'd forgiven her for, but now could only see how harsh it had been.<br><br>"The floor is clean enough, you should retire for the evening as well, we would not want someone to look for a nightcap and slip on the floors you clean." He spoke, his voice was not harsh, but it was carefully measured, he wondered for a moment if she would remember it, they had talked long before what they had had to do. And he had shown the responsibility of a man taking care of a young wife while she was pregnant, as if she were his own, but he had sent her away as the agreement had been made once his son had been born, and she was healthy enough to leave.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>18-12-2010, 22:45:02</strong>
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				His voice washed over her like velvet, a timbre she would carry to the grave in her heart, her arms locking midway through their motion, her fingers clenching the wooden brush for what calm it could give her.&nbsp; What bitterness and regret had colored her initially had faded into sad memory in the intervening years, and intervening households.&nbsp; It had been luck that had brought her back to this place, one she could not have been sure was the place.<br><br>She had been foolish and fallen in love with the man, something she had denied even to herself.&nbsp; But now her instinct warred with all the training she had gained in service.&nbsp; She was as still as she could be, trying to both acquiesce to his wishes that she leave off and retire and to melt into the periphery as she had been taught.&nbsp; The training had been the only thing in years that had kept her vivacious nature at bay.&nbsp; After moments of silent deliberation, she straightened as he commanded, slipping the brush into the bucket of soapy water beside her.&nbsp; Of their own volition, her body turned toward his instinctively, her deep blue eyes searching into the darkness that shrouded his form.<br><br>"Yes, sir..." she murmured softly, a slight catch in her throat.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>18-12-2010, 23:10:00</strong>
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				Watched her, the way she stiffened, before rising slowly to his command. Oh yes, he knew, at least was almost sure, that she knew exactly who she was talking too. And not only that, but that this was indeed where she was, again. Under the roof she had lived for little over 9 months. Licking his lips slightly he nodded faintly when she answered him, saying she would go. His fingers clenched at his side, wondering if she came back to make him remember his wife more... that pain, would she tell their son?<br><br>"You were not supposed to come back here Meg." He reminded her slightly, they would have to speak about it, they could hardly go one pretending that each other did not exist. Especially with his wife so recently gone, and his son, their son's, birthday. Shaking his head slightly he sighed, he knew his mess would rebound on him one day.. but now of all times? Frowning he turned slightly hearing another up in the night, moving down the stairs, maybe looking for a midnight glass of milk, or indeed a nightcap to help their sleeplessness.<br><br>"Come." He spoke, a clear order, not an invitation, he turned and moved back down the dark hall to his den, it warm from the fire burning to one side of the room, heating it. Books lining the shelves and a few left open on his desk waiting for his return. Easing inside he he moved over to pour himself a drink slowly, filling his glass with a warm cognac before moving to sit down in the chair behind his desk.<br><br>The years had shown on him, living with his slowly dying wife, and raising his illegitimate son, while working to support his household. His dark brown hair had grey setting in faintly at his temples, giving him a more distinguished look. His light facial hair was peppered with grey as well, though it was trimmed close and neat, the hard lines of his face making him look slightly weary, but still hard. He was not a unkind man, never that, but he was firm there was no question of that.<br><br>"Why here Meg?" He asked, why did she had to come here. He lifted his drink and tasted the warm liquor a moment before letting the glass rest on the desk again, steely grey eyes focused on her.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>19-12-2010, 00:46:22</strong>
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				Leaving the bucket in the scullery, Meg followed him meekly, as she would have been expected if anyone were to see them.&nbsp; She kept her head down, meek, as if she had been chastised.&nbsp; It was well she had learned to hide her emotions in the meek expressions of a maid.&nbsp; The change in rooms, characterized by the crackle of the fire and the clinking of the decanter against the glass.<br><br>She couldn't trust herself to say what she felt, to defend herself properly, only listened to his voice...storing it up.&nbsp; It was only when she could feel his gaze upon her that she realized he expected an answer...why?<br><br>Why had she come here, when he had expressly forbidden her return?&nbsp; How could she defend her decision to come here, beside the fact that she had been so distraught when she had borne their child that she had only vaguely remembered the whereabouts of the manor?&nbsp; In the intervening years the home had been changed without, enough for her to not realize her error.<br><br>"I had not...realized my error before tonight.&nbsp; Much has changed...things I remembered...changed.&nbsp; Durham is large enough that if I refused a post I could be turned down out of hand.&nbsp; I had hoped to keep myself hidden enough...no one notices a maid.&nbsp; No one has so much as called me by name..."&nbsp; She clenched her jaw, halting herself from the closing of her throat and impending tears.&nbsp; She had loved him then, and she had not ceased loving him in the interim.&nbsp; Then as now she was not allowed her feelings.<br><br>"I...suppose you should send me away..."
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>19-12-2010, 01:58:28</strong>
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				"Yes, i definitely should send you away." He spoke as he watched her talk, she seemed to be fighting herself some, he'd gotten to know her well during her pregnancy, they had lived as close as they could in that time, him caring for her like any expecting father would. His wife had understood, and while kept away out of her own sadness had born little grudge. Until she found out just how much he had come to care for the young woman.<br><br>That was near the end of the pregnancy, and his wife had grown furious at the time, partially because he had considered keeping Meg in his home and around. She had threatened to ruin him, even if she had agreed to in in the past, if the words spread that he was having a child with a maid, it could cripple him, and his son forever after the fact. It was then that he had enforced their earlier agreement, that she would have to leave, and never return to his home.<br><br>But, his wife was gone. His house was in mourning, the servants, him, and his son all. Taking another swallow of the liquor he sighed softly a hand rubbing at his eyes. "You may stay...." He would not toss her out to the streets, the months were growing cold, and he knew jobs were slimier in these times, she'd mentioned it to him when she was with them last, he had ensured she had a job before sending her away then.<br><br>"But you may not tell him." He spoke his eyes fierce for another moment, that was vital, how could he tell his son, that the mother he loved his whole life, and mourned even now was not his true mother? No he couldn't, and couldn't let her either.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>19-12-2010, 21:00:52</strong>
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				"I understand," she said softly, trying her best to remain calm.&nbsp; She knew the consequences of keeping his trust and that of the son she had borne.&nbsp; How could she break that promise of silence, when she had unknowingly broken the first?&nbsp; There was nothing she could deny either of them, as she had known in the beginning.<br><br>And she was genuinely sorry for the loss they had all experienced, but had remained outside the circle of grief, preferring service to mourning.&nbsp; It had kept her from underfoot, and out of the master's eye--as befitting any maid of her station.<br><br>"I promise I won't tell him.&nbsp; But what do I do if he asks himself?"&nbsp; Her tone was pained, uncertain.&nbsp; She knew she would not be able to fend of as inquisitive a child as she had seen the boy to be...her son...their son...&nbsp; She could not deny the child love if he sought it...
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 00:16:39</strong>
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				He obviously didn't want to throw her out to the streets, especially this time of year. He rubbed his face slightly before taking another drink of the cognac gently listening to her question again frowning slightly. Setting his glass down and standing he shook his head faintly. "You cannot tell him. He wont ask if your his mother, his mother was the woman whom raised him with me every day of his life." Not meaning his words to be cruel, but it very well could of come out as such the way he said it.<br><br>"If he comes to you for comfort, you will comfort him as a maid, a stranger, offer him your condolences, a hug, and send him to me, or one of the nannies." The boy had two, and each of them had been with him a long time, though neither of them knew the particular situation either, no, only one or two trusted staff whom had been with them longest knew and they kept silent. <br><br>"Meg, would you really want to tell him the woman he has loved as a mother, and now mourns as a mother, was not really his mother? It will wound him." It still hurt him even, knowing that his wife had lived her life sad because she had to care for another womans child. She hadn't shown it often, but sometime he saw it. "No, respect her memory enough not to strip her of the only child she could ever have."
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 00:44:42</strong>
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				She felt her throat constrict at his harsh words, thoughts that had never occurred to her in the least.&nbsp; She had not intended her questions out of spite, merely curiosity.&nbsp; She had been approached by the child once before, and she had been friendly to him, a sort of partner in crime for a bit of mischief that had gotten them both a stern talking to for hiding toys.<br><br>"I would never want to hurt him...why would I?&nbsp; My own..." she pressed her lips together to halt their own fervent wish, willing herself to not sink to the thick woolen carpet in her despair.&nbsp; It would have done better to have remained the shadow that remained out from under the eye of the family...<br><br>The only child she could ever have?&nbsp; It was true...his wife had been barren...but in his insistence, he robbed her of her own, despite the agreement they had made.&nbsp; How could she not love the boy...love him?&nbsp; How could she hide the fairy tale she had so obviously built for herself?&nbsp; Was she wicked for still wishing...?
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 01:03:31</strong>
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				"It would hurt him, to know that the woman he called mother his entire life was not his mother." He spoke firmly, and knew it to be truth. Finally he moved around her desk over to her and hesitated for a moment before he lifted his hand and put it over her shoulder gently cupping her shoulder and squeezing slightly.<br><br>"I know that it is difficult, that you want to talk to him like he is your own." It was obvious, because he had heard his wives own wishes, to have a child of her own, to know that it was her flesh and blood. It was similar with Meg, but worse, because she had one, and he was asking her not to do so, not to indulge in that with her own son. <br><br>"You did me a great favor... and i would do anything i could to pay you back for it Meg." Despite having paid her substantially for her time, he knew it wasn't the money that mattered, no it was more. It was deeper then that, what she'd given up, what..they had given up it was harsh that he had enforced their agreement in those last days, but his wife.. she had been adamant. "But telling Alec that your his mother would only wound him, and that i cannot give you Meg, not at his expense." <br><br>But what she wanted of him, that he could hardly know, for all his knowledge she should hate him for what he'd done, for taking her child from her, even in their bargain. For casting her away despite the warmth that had grown between them, and forcing it severed away. Yes, he believed a part of her hated him, which was why he suspected her of cruel things when he found her in his own despite it being forbidden.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 01:29:33</strong>
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				In a pained whisper, she only managed,&nbsp; "He <em>is</em> my own..."&nbsp; Shaking her head once, she managed to brush away the tears that spilled over the red-rimmed lids.&nbsp; She would not allow herself the anguish she so acutely felt.&nbsp; She could not...&nbsp; Her own <em>son</em>.<br><br>She trembled at the light squeeze at her shoulder, the feel of his warm hand resting there.&nbsp; It was a fairy dream she could not acknowledge.&nbsp; Something she must store away, but never show the effect his touch had on her.&nbsp; It was too dangerous.<br><br>"It is enough that he is happy..." she choked, the desperate anguish marred by a hollow moroseness that twisted at her heart.&nbsp; How could she come here?&nbsp; How could she love him still, refusing to believe anything but the only buoy that kept her afloat?&nbsp; It was all she had to cling to...her innocence and her heart were his.&nbsp; She could not take them back...nor did she wish to.<br><br>"I won't tell him...I promise that..."
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 01:59:29</strong>
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				With her tears he could not help but feel compassion for her. She had done much for him, and he had come to care for her through her pregnancy they both knew. Pulling her slowly closer to him he curled his arms around her putting her against his chest. Comforting her, but there was a hesitance to it, knowing he shouldn't hold her like this, shouldn't indulge in the feel of her even close to him. Though, he waited for her to push him away more than not.<br><br>"That is what i ask." He murmured to her final words, knowing she would not tell him was enough, he would not put her out as long as she kept her word on that matter. Though he should... she was potential trouble. If the few who knew of their bargain found she was staying with them again.. and so soon after his wife passed away. There would be whispers. <br><br>"He is happy, and you may talk to him...i wont forbid that..just not tell him the truth." His son could learn from his mother, the woman whom had done so much. Sighing faintly he closed his eyes, he could smell the cleaning products on her, standing so close, but underneath he could smell the scent of her hair, making him remember. Remember when he had tucked up against her, holding her from behind, hands touching her swollen stomach, thanking her for doing what she was for him. It made him feel guilty.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>20-12-2010, 16:36:32</strong>
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				Safety.&nbsp; Safety was tantamount in this place, hiding in plain sight from those that might remember her from earlier days.&nbsp; Secure in his arms, she felt the tension flood from her back and shoulders.&nbsp; It was a luxury she knew she had no right to, and one she could certainly not long afford.<br><br>She knew she would scarcely be able to deny his wishes or those of their son, as surely if they were her very own.&nbsp; Resting her head upon his chest, it was easy to pretend all would be well, but she&nbsp; knew eventually her own desires would get in the way.<br><br>"Wish him a happy birthday for me...even if he can't know."&nbsp; She sounded wistful, a sad smile creeping against the edges of her lips.
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>21-12-2010, 01:43:06</strong>
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				"You may wish him happy birthday yourself. The staff are invited to his party." They had enough servants that it was like they were the extended family, his son having lived and been raised amongst many of them of course wanted them at his party. They were friends, cousins, and closeness that he didn't have from extended family elsewhere. <br><br>"Go to your bed Meg." He murmured gently as he gave a soft press against her shoulders making space between them once more. Oh yes they should not of been so close as it were. His eyes were dark and hidden, hiding away thoughts and emotions as surely as she tried to hide them in herself. "It has been a long day and i'm sure you have worked hard." Turning away from her he walked back to his desk reaching for his glass again.<br><br>Oh it was hard, sending the woman he cared for back to her own bed. Back to her position and life as she was. Harder now then it had been when he sent her away before, because before he had his wife at his shoulder pressing for him to do so. Now he only had her memory to do so, and he knew it was what he had to do. But doing it anyway was still difficult. Knowing she was a good woman, and sending her to a servants life after she long earned something greater. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>22-12-2010, 16:58:14</strong>
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				The bliss of his touch, however light, was altogether too brief in her mind as he gently pushed her away, reminding her of both the hour and her station in his home.&nbsp; She was no longer his lover, and had not carved a place in his heart as he had in hers.&nbsp; It was as it should be.&nbsp; He was a married man, newly widowed, and she was only a maid.<br><br>Straightening reluctantly, she smiled softly.&nbsp; It would be safer this way, easier for him.&nbsp; And she couldn't deny him that, even if he wasn't grieving for his wife.&nbsp; She would continue as she had, simply doing her duty and keeping her true identity hidden from those curious eyes that might swing her way if she made too much noise...<br><br>Curtseying precisely, she murmured,&nbsp; "Yes sir.&nbsp; Sleep well, sir."<br><br>With one last look she turned and moved toward the door of his study, her ears tuned to noises without, to assure she would not be seen leaving his presence. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>23-12-2010, 01:26:41</strong>
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				Watched her move to the door after she wished him well sleep. He wouldn't sleep well, it was the first time in so many years that he would be sleeping alone. The last couple weeks with his wife i her sick bed then her death bed had been horrible and lonely. But he grieved little. His wife had been in pain, and they had seen this coming long in coming. His morning had been spent over the last few years. Watching his wife slowly slip towards the grave.<br><br>When she slipped out of his office he set his glass down then his head down against the desk slightly closing his eyes. Oh yes, this was complicated. He wanted to feel her close to him, wanted to touch her and keep near her but all he could do was send her away. Oh cruel was his position, he was to lose his wife, then does the one woman he had cared for otherwise return. Life was unjust.<br><br>But it would go on.<br><br>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br><br>It was another couple days forward, and he had been away on business through most of them, walking amongst his colleagues whom pretended to mourn for him. It had been sickening, and he was glad to be home again, returned back to his place amongst his family and servants. Though, it was his son's birthday down, and the house had been made more festive for the occasion.<br><br>"You ready for your big day Alec?" He murmured with a smile as he moved to scoop his son up putting him up on his shoulder, the blonde haired boy smiling. Being young he took death a little more casually, and was accepting his mothers passing quickly enough, more busy thinking about his birthday and the general mood his friends and the servants have been working to put him in. <br><br>"Yes father!" Alec would smile widely gripping onto Alex's neck and holding tight clinging to his father. "Are you staying for the party father?" He asked looking down at his father blonde locks falling into the way.<br><br>Alex nodded his head gently. "Yes my son, i'm staying, now hurry off, i'm sure Margret will be furious your not in your best yet." He spoke moving his boy off his shoulders and letting him down to run off towards his room to find his governess. Walking out to the garden where they had set up the tables and servants were bringing out food. There were a few guests, mostly children with their attending mothers or governess's the other men busy with their day to come to a boys party, even if it was Alexanders son.<br><br>He stood out of the way some letting them handle things, moving to rest his shoulders against a wall gently looking down at the ground lightly thoughtfully. Alone in a crowd of people in his own home, the knew he mourned silently, and his son was the one light to him in these dismal days. Most would leave him alone, even his manservant kept his distance today. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>23-12-2010, 14:02:57</strong>
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				Preparations were well in hand, the guests for little Alec's party arriving in small groups, mostly children with their governesses, and making their way to the garden beyond.&nbsp; Meg had spent her morning with the kitchen maids fussing about the food to be served.&nbsp; No one seemed to notice her agitation as they all wished to make 'their' boy's birthday perfect--to fill the hole of the mother lost.<br><br>The scent of fresh green spring accosted her nostrils as she and the other maids were corralled by the cook to carry things to the garden, all of them fresh in starched, new uniforms.&nbsp; The best for their boy--her boy.&nbsp; The task of raising a child had been easier in her youth, with the town to claim the child as their own...she supposed it was better if the household took part in his life, giving him a wider experience than he ever would otherwise.&nbsp; She should, and needed to be, content with the situation.&nbsp; All would be well and she could worry less about the circumstances of her life.<br><br>Still there was the matter of the melancholy man who tried his best to melt into the brickwork as they worked.&nbsp; He seemed lost in his thoughts, and she dared not separate herself to touch his sleeve, make him smile.&nbsp; It was not her place as a maid, and would be considered completely out of line to approach him.&nbsp; Despite their previous knowledge of one another--perhaps precisely more acutely so because of it.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>24-12-2010, 03:22:17</strong>
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				He remained where he was for a time as the party was getting underway, the games the children would play, and ignored the soft whisperings he could hear, despite the hushed voices. He noticed the eyes too, turning to look at him, wondering at him, concerned for him, and silently commenting on his life. The governess's of other boys and houses commenting on the man still being handsome, and young enough to marry. That it was a shame his wife had been so ill through her life, and that she had passed, but that the man should do was was right for the boy and marry a proper woman again.<br><br>Shaking his head slightly he rubbed his eyes some as he finally stepped away from the wall moving to one of the many servants and leaning asking them to bring him another cup of strong coffee, with just a dash or two of his cognac in it. Though he moved out amongst the people, he still seemed more a shadow on the wall then not. Only brightening for his sons eyes, giving a smile and another affectionate hug before releasing him back to play. Any other eyes he did not bother to hole the ruse for, his son could see him happy, let the hens chirp about how he was, he could care less.<br><br>He found a table to sit at, one that wasn't already filled with the boy's waiting women and waited for his coffee to come, wanting something warm and strong to drink, to try to perk himself up more for his son. It was not his wifes demise that brought him so low, but simply the prolonged length of pretending while his wife was still alive that he did not have to keep up anymore. It let him feel and show his feelings a bit more, and with her death, they were acceptable even.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>27-12-2010, 16:26:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You there, girl!" The normally calm voice of the cook was almost shrill with the stress of the day.&nbsp; Her worry that the fare would not be perfect overwhelmed her sense of calm that she usually wore, even on the worst of days.&nbsp; The strain showed on everyone's faces.&nbsp; As Meg crossed the floor to stand before the woman, it was apparent in the others as well.&nbsp; The loss of their mistress seemed to drain everyone but the joyful child without.&nbsp; <br><br>The snap of the cook's fingers brought her out of her reverie, and Meg lifted her chin in an instinctive defense,&nbsp; "Well?&nbsp; Take milord's coffee to him, and don't dawdle with your head in the clouds..."&nbsp; Pushing the cup and saucer into her hands, the cook turned from her dismissively, muttering to herself.<br><br>Curtseying carefully, Meg turned back to the garden, and the subdued sounds of the party in progress filtered back into her consciousness as she made her way to Alexander's side, silent and unobtrusive.&nbsp; Setting the coffee before him, she backed away, willing herself to not interfere as she might like...it was not her place.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>27-12-2010, 16:40:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blinked when the coffee was set down next to him, he had spaced out some and had forgotten he had even asked for some, when he turned his head to thank he for the coffee he paused noticing it was her. "Meg... sit down." He spoke his gaze turning forward once more while he lifted the coffee to take a slow drink of it, he could taste the liquor in it, even if it was obvious they only put a little inside of it, not wanting him to be tipsy during the party.<br><br>Licking his lips slightly as he glanced towards her hesitantly for a moment wondering what she was thinking today. Wondering if she was hurt because her son's birthday was today and she could do little more then hug him like the other servants and wish him a happy birthday. It had to be hard and he knew it. And his thoughts were worried for the time, right now, he couldn't help it.<br><br>He reached out to her, not physically, no he was reaching out to her socially, emotionally even just a little bit. Making him consider her further for a moment. "Is it difficult?" He finally asked. Though he thought he knew the answer. It was as difficult as pretending there was nothing between them, though he knew that he felt something towards her, something forbidden completely.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>27-12-2010, 18:04:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Surprised at his invitation, she sat in the chair next to him, maintaining as impartial a posture as she could manage, so as not to embarrass him.&nbsp; Casting her eyes to her clasped hands in her lap, she stole a glance at him as he sipped the coffee before looking away again.&nbsp; Biting her bottom lip slightly, she smiled slightly, nodding once.&nbsp; He had been blessed with the time with their son, and she had done her duty leaving as she had been bid.&nbsp; She had not had the courage to tell anyone.<br><br>"It is..." she murmured,&nbsp; "I remember everything as if it were yesterday."&nbsp; That yesterday, unfortunately, she could not act upon...not as fragile as hearts were this day, mourning and broken.&nbsp; Her gaze wandered to watch her son, playing and running, carefree, her smile returning as she watched him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>28-12-2010, 02:31:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"He's beautiful." He murmured slightly looking at the child across the party, playing with his friends happily on his birthday.. The boy had grown up well, and happy, and that had always been important to Alexander. Sighing he turned to look at her slightly more focusing on her rather then the party for a time, another slow sip of his coffee before he set it in the dish lightly. "He has a family here too Meg, as you can see."<br><br>All the servants as she noticed were protective o the boy, everyone charmed by the beautiful nice boy. Licking his lips slightly for a moment he lifted a hand to rub his eyes. "I look like shit don't i Meg?" Most of his staff wouldn't comment on it to him usually, telling him he looked fine. He wanted a honest opinion from her, cause he knew the truth and simply wanted to hear it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>28-12-2010, 17:45:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling almost wistfully as she watched her son running full tilt across the length of the party and back, giggling and radiant.&nbsp; The young always seemed to find the best ways to shun the gloom most adults seemed to harbor on death.&nbsp; They had life to live, and would let nothing stand in their way.<br><br>At his query, her wistful smile turned sardonic, even if only at the very corners of her mouth, her attention shifting from her son to him.&nbsp; Suppressing a chuckle, she nodded at him, her eyes twinkling mirth.&nbsp; She had always told him the truth, even at her own expense, but today she could see he needed honesty rather than the diplomatic tact of a servant.&nbsp; He wanted <em>her</em> opinion.&nbsp; Murmuring softly, she replied, "No less beautiful in my eyes, but yes...you look like shit..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>29-12-2010, 04:57:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gave a soft chuckle for a moment when she did answer honestly, saying he looked like shit, though he caught the first part and it quirked something in him but he ignored it for now looking away from her again taking another slow drink of his coffee. Wondering just what her comment hat meant partially but he couldn't focus on it, not today. No, today was his sons birthday, and while he wanted to be happy for his son, he could barely muster to be around these people.<br><br>"Least i look how i feel.. I've felt like this for months." He spoke, honestly to her, there was a connection between them, he wouldn't deny that. No more then he could deny the beautiful golden haired boy playing with his friends right now. "Ellen was long in passing.." He murmured the pain evident in his voice before he shook his head forcing himself to clear that thought away. "Where did you go?" He had gotten her a job after their arrangement, but he hadn't kept an eye on her to see if she stayed and when he next noted she'd been gone.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>29-12-2010, 16:40:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She fell silent as he spoke of his wife, the woman who had begrudgingly opened her home to Meg, and who had learned to resent the happiness she'd brought to the home.&nbsp; Her innocence at the time had not understood the resentment to be jealousy, despite her greatest efforts to befriend the woman.&nbsp; Meg had been able to give Alexander what he had wished--a son and heir--where Ellen had failed.<br><br>"Away from Durham...far enough that I wouldn't be tempted to find you again.&nbsp; I went to the mainland for a few months as a lady's maid, then came back to England--to Bristol--and worked with a family there until they could no longer afford to keep a maid, and moved into a boarding house.&nbsp; By then, I thought I was calm enough to return to Durham, and I found myself here again."&nbsp; <br><br>"When was the last time you slept, truly?"&nbsp; Her concern was deeply hidden in her eyes, but it was there, masking the love she still felt for him, but was unable or unwilling to set free.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>30-12-2010, 00:47:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Listened to her short story of her life away from their home in Durham. He shook his head softly feeling a little bad that she had been out amongst people like that. She didn't belong there, she had here.. where her son was, but he couldn't say it, never aloud. No he kept that to himself. Shifting slightly for a moment while he looked at the guests again her heard her question and sighed.<br><br>"I'd lie to you Meg, but i know you'd see through it." He spoke turning his gaze to her. "It's been a while since I've slept well. Ive slept, but usually just for a hour or two, and only cause my body just..stopped." It was difficult remaining how he was, in the state of active depression. Never properly resting, yet never stopping either, it was a vicious turn on him.<br><br>"He's happy though, and thats what matters to him." Eying the children playing, his son running around. "Is everything taken care of?" Not knowing exactly what to talk about with her.&nbsp; But she was the only person who could understand him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>30-12-2010, 14:36:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sighing softly, she fought to keep her gaze level,&nbsp; "Oh, Sasha..."&nbsp; The endearment slipped from her lips too easily, a faint reminder of the affection they had shared.&nbsp; Her innocence when they met had allowed her the excuse of becoming attached to him, but now she could not admit to others that she had grown to love him.<br><br>Hard pressed to not reach out and squeeze his hand, she murmured,&nbsp; "Is there any way I can help?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>30-12-2010, 16:12:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Sasha hm? You went very far east didn't you?" He spoke faintly enough as he frowned at his coffee cup, it seemed that it was next to empty now, which was a bit obnoxious but he didn't want to ask her to get him another. Closing his eyes slightly he lifted his hand rubbing the bridge of his nose slowly for a moment, smoothing his digits against his skin slightly. "No, i do not think there is much of a way to help Meg."<br><br>"If you think of something, your more then welcome to say so Meg.... You know i have nearly always listened to you." Moving his hand away from his face he leaned back again. "But for now, the mask must return." Even as he spoke it he pulled the facade over his face, the mask of happiness as he moved to pull his son up into his arms. The boy running from his friends to him. Holding Alec close he smiled softly. "Come on my boy, its your big day, you get to sit at the head of the table for dinner." Moving towards the long table set out. Settling Alec down in what would normally be his place. Settling down next to his son he relaxed.<br><br>A faint nod towards the serving staff that were there to work, rather then those as more guest positions. Glancing to Meg for a moment he gestured to the chair next to him. He didn't care who saw right at the moment, he needed a bit of support near him. She was a pretty woman still, after all, and many would only see it as that possibly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>30-12-2010, 18:08:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Blushing slightly, Meg slipped into the offered chair, trying her best to look embarrassed, but secretly she enjoyed the opportunity to spend more time at his side.&nbsp; In public, she could be seen with him as long as it was not construed as vultury on her part, taking advantage of the death of her former prospective mistress.&nbsp; She wished, however difficult it might be, to see genuine happiness in his eyes once more.<br><br>It might take time, but it was time she owed him, time that was immaterial now.&nbsp; Her friendly, if impartial, smile shone at her son...enough to silently wish him a happy birthday as the maid he thought her...before she dropped her gaze demurely, neutrally, to her lap.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 04:30:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The party would continue as that, Alex pretending to be happy when the occasion rose that his son looked his way, otherwise letting himself slump and look as tired and sad as he really was. Alec was happy with his dinner and the gifts he received from his friends and some of the staff but before long the boy was growing tired, as an exciting day went it drained his energy pretty quick. <br><br>Soon the friends and their governesses were making their ways out to head home, and Alex scooped Alec up gently. "I think, today its bed time a little soon little one." He spoke squeezing his boy before heading inside, Alec, with little prompt was leaning into his father and drifting as they walked.<br><br>Moving he settled Alec into his bed gently lifting the blankets to tuck him in after changing him into his night clothes. "Sleep well Alec." He murmured kissing the boys head before easing out of the room closing the door. Lifting a hand he rubbed his eyes. Why was it whenever it got close to times he could sleep was the times he was most awake, plagued and worked so he couldn't ever rest properly.<br><br>Easing down the hall he touched a maids shoulder and requested some warm milk with honey and a bit of brandy before heading for his den. If he couldn't sleep he might as well read or go over a few business reports, something he could take care of before returning to work in a day or two. While away often he had extended stays at home as well. When he settled though in his desk he sighed slightly pondering what he should do, though, not really having a plan on the matter. He didn't want to read, or work. Thoughts wondering again to the young maid whom he ruined.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 16:24:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The celebration waned into the evening, the seemingly neverending energy of her son slowly winding into calm.&nbsp; The trickling away of the guests left her with the other servants to clean, while Alexander carried the boy away, almost asleep in his arms.&nbsp; It was a sweet sight to her eyes, most of the other help mirroring her own fond watch before gathering dishes and linens back to the kitchens to be cleaned and sorted, the manservants breaking down long tables in their wake.<br><br>Shoulders sagging, Meg made for her own bed in the small cellar, away from the other servants who slept by the warmth of the fire in the kitchen or far above in the attic space.&nbsp; It was a meager living, but she was sure she would persevere, if only to be close to them...&nbsp; Sleep however, was elusive, and she stared at the ceiling for what seemed hours.&nbsp; No way to lull herself to sleep, her thoughts drifted to the master of the house.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 16:33:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Had paid attention of course, and knew where the woman was. Moving he made his way through the house to the cellar and eased inside slightly just pushing the door open enough that he could look in and see her in the dark. "Why do you sleep in the cellar, is colder in here, you will catch your death?" He spoke thoughtfully enough while he leaned his shoulder against a wall keeping his gaze soft. This was inappropriate very much so at this point, coming to where she slept? It was good only that rest of the staff were sleeping and she was indeed apart of them.<br><br>If she hadn't been, he probably would not have come here, not to talk to her in the midst of the night like this. Why did she have to come back here.. when he was so hurt, when he needed someone to love. It made it harder to resist the bond that they had had at one time. Of course, he couldn't understand that she felt the same way, the bond between them pulling at her as unfairly as it did him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 16:49:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Shifting slightly on her bed, she watched him in the darkness, his voice full of concern for her.&nbsp; Smiling, she pushed herself up into a sitting position on the bed, resting her back against the wall.&nbsp; "Some nights I can't sleep...if I sit in the dark by myself, it doesn't disturb others in their slumber."<br><br>Bare toes peeked from white linen at the edge of the bed, her hair now falling loose down her back as she watched him fondly.&nbsp; It was as if there had been no time between them, even if they now spoke to one another in a cellar instead of in a sitting room with a fire crackling merrily.&nbsp; The last time they had enjoyed one another's company so frankly it had been winter, and snow had blanketed the ground beyond the great stone walls.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 17:03:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It would still be better if you did not sleep down here Meg, i would be..sad if you got sick from sleeping in a cold cellar." It was dark indeed, he couldn't even see her through the darkness. It made him wonder, vaguely what she was wearing, if her hair was down, if she was looking at him or away. It was dark enough he could not tell any of this. Lifting a hand he pushed his hair from his eyes lightly. <br><br>All the things he wanted to say seemed to catch in his throat, in his mind, keeping him from letting them out. Oh they were their haunting the edges of his thoughts. Wondering if she had really missed him as much as he had her. The soft Sasha she had called him earlier in the day, the sweet term of endearment, showing just how far from him she'd gone. And more so just how much she still cared to a point, it was revealing, and concerning.<br><br>Because if she had those feelings till, would it really be so easy for him to hide his own? Already he sought her out to speak to her, on more then one occasion. When was he going to slip to far?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 17:27:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Watching him keenly, she pushed herself from the bed, her soft step sounding lightly on the stone floor, before her hand reached out to touch his sleeve.&nbsp; It was dangerously close to him, but she could not help herself, as if he were a lodestone.&nbsp; He had been her world for too long...<br><br>"And where would I sleep?"&nbsp; She asked softly.&nbsp; "In the kitchen where there is barely room to walk at night?&nbsp; With you?"&nbsp; The last was slightly pained, as her fingers caught his.&nbsp; "It is safe here...and I stay warm...&nbsp; You worry too much. You've enough to worry for without adding me to that list..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 17:35:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Felt her hand against his sleeve and closed his eyes slightly at her that close to him, so tired. "Meg, that is bold." He commented when she made the joking suggestion that she sleep with him. Oh how nice did that sound, he'd slept alone so long, his wife too weak, on her death bed to have her husband close with her. Oh yes it'd been some time, maybe as long as it'd been since he'd had a proper nights rest also.<br><br>"I have worried about you since the day i had to turn you out. You are, and have been at the top of my list, for a long time." He spoke without thinking, admitting more then he should, or would like to. Yes, he definitely needed to get some rest, he was being foolish far to often. Feeling her fingers against his, taking his hand he squeezed it slightly, his thumb rubbing over the back of her hand. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 18:02:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Pressing her lips together, she reveled in his gentle touch.&nbsp; It was something she could not do in the light, and she knew she must savor it here.&nbsp; How could he know that she had wished to stay when he had enforced their separation after Alec's birth.&nbsp; She had gone to sleeping apart from her peers as a way to keep them from having to worry with her heartbreak, having grown accustomed to the privacy she'd been afforded in the wintry landscape of Russia.<br><br>"Boldness is only a wish for me, now.&nbsp; And you need rest...true rest..."&nbsp; She had to restrain herself from endearments that would come unbidden to her lips if she had not censored herself.&nbsp; It would be difficult to keep them from her lips if she did not watch her every word.&nbsp; Still she wished that she was allowed to linger.&nbsp; "Let me have my haven, Alexander...it will make it easier to remind myself I don't have the luxury of your arms."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 18:09:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"True rest has been long need for me Meg, this i know." He spoke when she mentioned it, he heard her words, telling him to leave her haven to her and alone. Not agreeing with her, but could he really deny that to her? No, would feel horrid about that, he could hardly deny her anything. He'd taken so much from her already, and he knew it. Moving he curled his arms around her, even after her words saying that she wouldn't have that luxury. Maybe he was a horrible person, giving her this touch when he could not promise her more necessarily.<br><br>His arms pulled her into his chest softly as he closed his eyes pressing his nose into her hair softly. "I remember holding you, with my hands against your swollen stomach, and telling you how warm you felt, and how i could feel Alec kicking." His words were soft his eyes closed tight, why, why did their lives have to turn like they had. That only here in this dark cellar could he admit to the way he properly knew her they way they had cared for one another.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 18:39:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Inhaling sharply as she nuzzled against his chest, she pressed a bold kiss there, melting into his embrace.&nbsp; It was a dangerous thing, for them both, but she wasn't willing to draw away from the gift he offered.&nbsp; Indeed, they had spent hours in each other's arms, much like this, daydreaming about a future that could never be...a way to build visions of a happy family life that would never materialize.<br><br>Smiling, she murmured,&nbsp; "Those memories are what kept me going...I missed you.&nbsp; How swiftly five years has gone..."&nbsp; It was a wonder, how he remembered the things she had treasured, his touch, his soft, loving words.&nbsp; It had been idyllic then, ignoring the world to treasure the life they had created.&nbsp; It seemed ironic now that she loved him more than ever, and was not allowed to show him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>31-12-2010, 22:15:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Felt her pressed close to his chest, pushing against him as he held her, feeling her lips against his shirt it just made him want to hold her all the more. To feel her close to him and make her whole again. But he was the one who had broken her after all. And maybe it was a karma, havening to have her close, knowing that there was something between them. When they both knew they really could not persue it.<br><br>"Swiftly? Never, i have felt everyday." He spoke gently, and he had, counted it against his soul. Everyday his wife withered, her love and patience with him waning, praying everyday her pain and suffering did not drive her to something foolish. He had worried for a long while she would tell Alec, before she died, and wound his son greatly. But she had not. He had missed her, but never could he think of the time having gone quickly. "But i have also missed you as well Meg."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 04:06:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Softly she smiled, wishing for all the world they could do things differently...be together.&nbsp; His affection was a sweet treasure that she had always adored.&nbsp; "Slowly for us...but so fast for him.&nbsp; Like the spring wheat he is..."&nbsp; There was a lilt of humor in her voice, a fond happiness she could not otherwise express.<br><br>Sighing quietly, she lulled against his chest, listening to his heartbeat and the timbre of his voice deep within his chest, her cheek warm from the contact.&nbsp; If there were only a way to mend the rift between them from so long ago...even if she could not be close to him, to be his companion and give him someone that would be his boon.<br><br>"If only..." she murmured wistfully.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 04:21:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh yes, he will be as tall as me before long, and cupping all the pretty maids bottoms." He spoke lightly with a chuckle in his chest, it was a pleasant thought, his son in light mischief, not worrying about life. Oh he was going to ensure Alec understood right and wrong, and had a sense of business about him, but he wanted his son to have some of the enjoyments that he had not had, not until he'd had those months with Meg. Free for a time, his responsibility only to tend to the woman bearing his child, unfortunately that woman had not been his wife..<br><br>At one time he had thought about it, about leaving his wife, and leaving with Meg and their child. But his business was here, his home was here, his life was anchored in Durham, and if he up and left, he would ruin himself, he was set in his ways too much to leave this place. As much his wife had screamed at him, the argument had been bad, the day before he had to remind Meg of her promise to leave.<br><br>"What wishes can be made in the dark and the quiet Meg." He spoke leaning his head down to kiss the top of her head. Did he care that was a nobleman? No, not really, but he did care about what it could do to his reputation. What it would do to his son's if it got out, he wouldn't ruin his son's life before it started. "Can never really show themselves in the light." His voice added lightly, because he knew the wishes she'd make, and those he two would make. Hands rubbing over her back slowly, clutching her to his form in a warm squeeze. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 15:43:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The gentle kiss pressed to the crown of her head was tender and made her heart ache for time they could spend with one another.&nbsp; To wish she could fulfill his heart's desire once more, ones she had once known so acutely.<br><br>How she ached to be able to calm him as she did then, when her presence alone could bring a smile to his lips.&nbsp; They had almost functioned as one being then, anticipating one another's needs, but now that possibility was a dream.<br><br>Tilting her face up to watch him in what little light there was, she whispered, "And if they are made only in the dark, what would you wish for?"&nbsp; It was scandalous enough as a mere thought, but to even suggest it...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 15:59:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He heard her words and he shook his head. She was bold even back in the day, oh yes, pushing at the limits, he thought that was what he liked about her to an extent. Enjoying her soft insistent behavior, her stretching at her limits had always made him smile and shake his head some. Moving his face against her hair softly sighing gently as he pulled her scent into his nose. She smelt delicious, indeed. "What would i wish for? I think i would wish to have you to lay against to make me sleep better." He spoke as he brushed his lips against her temple.<br><br>Oh this was bad, they shouldn't be talking like this, pressed close like this. "I'd wish you knew the passage that lead from the servants quarters, to my room." It wasn't one widely known to be honest, only one of his man servants knew about it right now. "But then... that is just a wish." He spoke finally before he pulled away from her, this couldn't continue he knew it would have them in a compromising situation if it did, stepping back from her gently making space between them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 16:32:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Rocking slightly on her feet at the sudden separation, Meg managed to keep herself from nestling back into his arms across the space he had set for them.&nbsp; This must be as difficult for him as it was for her, then.&nbsp; He needed to keep the space between them or succumb to desires that would ruin them all.<br><br>She was not surprised their dreams mirrored one another, merely disappointed they could not indulge.&nbsp; "I know.&nbsp; But wishes keep us going, give us something to think on, like little children pretend.&nbsp; They can build a safe world for themselves to smooth over the things they don't understand."<br><br>And her dreams kept her from going mad with the heartbreak she'd endured, having to leave them.&nbsp; Wishes were powerful things, molding those who wished them, and she had been no different.&nbsp; She had even tried to run away from what she loved, but the dreams had always plagued her.<br><br>Lightly, she took a step away from him, wishing to give him the space he so needed at this moment, watching him closely.&nbsp; "I tried to run away...but I couldn't."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 16:39:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And you return, when i am at my most vulnerable." He spoke while he watched her patiently for a moment, gaze settled against her form slightly before he moved away from the wall again touching her cheek softly. "When i need you more then ever." Leaning close he pushed his lips against hers, it was a quick kiss though, and he pushed away from her, pushing her back gently further pushing himself away. Not letting her steal more than he could give her with the kiss.<br><br>This was almost painful, it was a sharp longing inside of him, a fist clenched around his hard squeezing slowly tighter, nails pressing into the precious organ. "Meg..." He hesitated, he almost asked her up to his room, to feel her against him, to simply sleep in welcome arms... Instead he turned his back on her making for the cellar door with slow steps. Would she stop him? Insist, ask to help? Persuade him that she would be as discreet as she had to be.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 17:01:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The kiss, however brief, was electric, her lips tingling as he tried to move away.&nbsp; Her heart twisted as she watched him go, her feet moving after him, her hand catching his.&nbsp; She put herself in his way, between him and the cellar steps, a gentle pressure on his wrist as she peered up at him in the dark.<br><br>"What is it?" She pressed gently, concern deep in her eyes.&nbsp; "I know that rumors spread like wildfire, and are just as destructive.&nbsp; I stayed away for fear that until I could control my heart, people would talk.&nbsp; So no one knew my life, my history...I stayed apart, keeping my head down and staying out of the way.&nbsp; The only evidence of us...is Alec."<br><br>"Sasha, please...tell me how I can help you..."&nbsp; Meg whispered, still clutching his hand.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 17:12:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Felt her insistent hand on his wrist stopping him, keeping him from fleeing from this dark embrace shared with her. Yes fleeing, he feared what would come of this night, dead of the night when only they in all the house were awake, sharing these words. "And Alec is hidden from that wildfire now. But if this caught word, what of those whom do know? Would they keep their silence? I cannot afford to ruin myself, and Alec's future." It was a twist in his heart, the scandal that would come from him playing with a maid would be small. But if those few who knew Alec's true parentage were reminded, and felt persuaded to share if they knew of this love between them. That could ruin him.<br><br>"Meg, there are so many ways you could help, and each one of them could be the same as my downfall." He was honest with her, looking into her eyes through the dark, it light enough just to see them. "And the fact that i want it anyway only makes it harder." Oh yes, something he could never entirely control, finally something small in him gave way, he needed her tonight. Needed the rest, the sleep that would come simply holding her and feeling her near him. "Come to bed with me tonight Meg... lay with me and let me sleep well." He was tired, and he was ignoring his own rational sense.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 17:29:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Slowly she nodded, very aware of the ruin it could bring them all if anyone found out.&nbsp; "Tonight.&nbsp; Then tomorrow, we must be as we were.&nbsp; You, lord of the manor and I, a maid.&nbsp; We can persevere as we have...in the light.&nbsp; In the dark I will be whatever you wish me to be."&nbsp; Anything to save him and keep Alec safe all at once.&nbsp; If he needed her t be cold, she could store up her feelings, and try...and if he needed her warmth, she could be warm...<br><br>She loved him.<br><br>"In the light we have to pretend..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 17:35:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Heard her and nodded again, it was true, and he knew that they would have to go to that but he paused touching her cheek softly. "Can you do that Meg?" He asked softly enough, he didn't want her to sacrifice herself further. She'd done so much for him, would it hurt her more to pretend to be nothing but a maid in the day, while his love at night? Could she stand as much really? She was stronger than he, cause he knew in part that he could not. Something in him knew he would break if he had too.<br><br>Hurting her further, taking from her further, no he could not do that anymore than he could hurt Alec. No, she had done so much for her, and he would not let himself take and use her. But he knew she cared for him, and wondered if this would be what she wanted as well, if she could live with what he could give her and be happy.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 18:01:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Smiling up at him, she cupped his cheek gently.&nbsp; Did he not know that simply holding him at night, feeling his warmth pressed close to her was a boon?&nbsp; That she had to imagine his touch for five years?&nbsp; Simply by his side would be a great improvement to being alone.<br><br>"It is enough to be near you...though I would wish to see you smile again.&nbsp; If anyone that remembers starts to suspect, I can stop for Alec.&nbsp; And I will, even if it causes me pain."&nbsp; Her voice dropped to a whisper,&nbsp; "I love you both too much to hurt either of you."&nbsp; She knew that her heart would be true, as it had without him, and that their love could likely be no more than trysts in the still dark of night.&nbsp; If that was the price, then so be it...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 18:07:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Heard her wish for his smiles. "It may be a time before you can have it yet." He spoke gently while he kept his gaze on her for a time his fingers moved to touch against her hand squeezing it and pulling her slowly along drawing her away. Making their way up the stairs away from the cellar. Her words of loving him hurt him almost. Only because part of him wanted to tell her not to love him, part of him wanted to warn her not to love him because he didn't want to chain her to him, when he couldn't be everything she deserved. <br><br>"If we are careful, no one need know, and Alec can remain happy and blissfully ignorant." His words were soft while he walked with her to his room. Easing inside of it and locking the door behind him. It was only then in the light of his room did he turn to get a proper sight of her, she had been ready for bed, and his eyes ran over her form now, wanting to see her in the light close, in private when he didn't have to hide his eyes on her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 18:33:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The lamplight was low, even if it was considerably more light than the cellar kept at any hour of the day or night.&nbsp; For the first time in as many years as their son had been alive, she was able to look on him unabashed, the light of love shining in her eyes.&nbsp; Healing took a long time, and he was grieving--for his wife, for his lost time, for what he could not tell their son.&nbsp; Only this could save him, as discreet as they must be.<br><br>She was not ignorant to his eyes drinking in her form as if he had thirsted for far too long, and she held her hands out to him gently, inviting him into her arms.&nbsp; It <em>had</em> been too long since they had been able to spend time in one another's company, simply content to hold each other.<br><br>"No one need know..."&nbsp; she murmured.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 18:39:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With her arms held out to him he moved forward and scooped her into his arms, lifting her up off of her feet, pulling her into his chest squeezing her gently in his arms as he held her. "Mmm no one." He added even as he kept her held to him, walking over to the bed slowly while holding her up off her feet. Moving he eased down onto the bed, clothed still either. Oh he didnt need more temptations for the time, when he asked her to come tonight, he had legitimately been asking only to hold her, because more. More would take time..<br><br>Laying on top of the covers even he kept her in his arms, letting her lay across his chest, a hand lifting from the small of her back up, tangling gently into her hair fixing himself close to her pulling in her sweet scent again even as he clutched her small form against his broad chest. "Thank you Meg... thank you." He murmured words soft. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 19:10:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Trembling with the effort it took to not kiss him, she caught her breath at the tangle of his fingers in her hair.&nbsp; Her body, trapped against his, seemed to feel as if they were one...a feeling so warm she had missed for too long.<br><br>Reaching up to brush her fingers along his temple, she hugged him tightly on impulse, pressing close to him.&nbsp; His thanks, though profuse, and freely given, were hardly necessary, and she was already quietly shushing him out of instinct.&nbsp; Fingers pressed to his lips gently, lingering there.&nbsp; <br><br>"Sleep..." she whispered.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 19:16:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Felt her fingers against his lips silencing him from the soft thank yous he parted on her. The murmur for him to sleep. He kissed her fingers, before drawing from them and moving touching her chin, tilting her head up to kiss her lips softly. Pushing into her lips tenderly, but enjoying the feel of them against his own. She tasted wonderful, always had. He kept his lips pressed to hers longer this kiss, but not by much pulling away again.<br><br>"I will." He was tired, so very tired, he had been so long, since he had felt warm like this. Moving he pressed his nose into her hair again his eyes closing. "Because of you." He added gently even as he began to drift off now slowly, slipping into sleep beside her, charmed by the warmth and gentleness between them, the love that he'd denied and fought so long.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>01-01-2011, 20:06:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tension flooded from her shoulders as he kissed her gently, her body nestling into his as she heard him murmur his assent to sleep.&nbsp; He had needed sleep for so long and it would be easier for him to manage the days with sleep, and if he were not so exhausted, he could manage to keep his guard up and not slip to seek her in the light.<br><br>Soon her own eyes grew heavy, slipping into slumber in his arms, lulled into the gentle security of his arms.&nbsp; Instinctively, her body pressed completely against his, molding against his side.&nbsp; She knew if she did not savor this, that morning would come too soon and she would be back in the scullery scrubbing floors instead of safe in her beloved's arms.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>02-01-2011, 03:10:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Slept soundly for the first time in a very long time, slipping into dreams rather than nightmares. Dreams that he had gotten to stay with Meg, an they had come to raise Alec together, happily as a family. The dreams were short lived because he knew they couldn't be real, it hadn't happened, and his subconscious stole them away before long, just letting him sleep in a exhausted dark sleep, so very restful. And when he finally stirred it was not waking up to more fretful thoughts and disappointments, no he woke up to that warm body molded against his as if she wanted to be a second skin.<br><br>His arms tightened around her with his waking, squeezing her against his chest more as he kissed against her hair, pressing his nose into her hair and nuzzling close. Oh this was the way he wanted to wake every morning, pressed close to her, inhaling her sweet scent, and feeling he pushed against him. It was a dream almost, and he feared any moment that he would wake up to it alone, but no she was real. They had fallen a sleep clothed, and not even properly in the bed, he had been so tired, she was so good to him, even if he knew he did not deserve it after all he'd done to her. Fingers brushing her temple, lingering down along her face.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>02-01-2011, 15:46:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Inhaling softly, Meg woke slowly to the warmth of his arms, his gentle touch lingering as it trailed over her face.&nbsp; It was as if she were as precious to him as he was to her, and it made her loathe to wake, but she knew she must unless he had an excuse for her being about the manor in her shift.<br><br>"Good morning, love..." she murmured softly, smiling even before her eyes had opened.&nbsp; Gentle fingers caressed his cheek lightly, her eyes opening slowly to gaze openly at him.&nbsp; She knew she would have a difficult time leaving his arms, but that it had already begun tugged at her heart.&nbsp; Caressing his cheek, she tucked against him, her ear to his chest--it was imperative that she store up bits of their time to carry her through the day.<br><br>"I fully intend for you to be well rested in no time..." she teased him quietly, trying to find a diplomatic way to let him know she had to return, against all her wishes, to her work.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>02-01-2011, 16:02:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Heard her soft good morning and could only answer it. "Morning." He spoke faintly while he remained close to her, enjoying her warmth and closeness far more then eh ever should he knew. Feeling her hand against his cheek before she tucked herself close to him again. Her words were understood, then he knew she would have to leave soon. If she were to get back to that cellar without noticed dressed in only her night shift she would have too.<br><br>"If my nights are like last, then im sure i will be well rested very soon." Sleeping with her in his arms had done wonders for him, it would take time of course. But he simply looked better to a degree. Happier, more rested, and seeing strong enough to last through the day maybe, unlike how he'd been struggling recently. It was a true nights rest, something he had definitely desperately needed.<br><br>"Go..before i ask you to stay longer than we both know you may." He spoke gently giving her hip a very gentle push, as&nbsp; reluctant as he was to let her go, the other staff would be waking soon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>10-01-2011, 15:53:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She knew as well as he that their parting was for the best, but as hasty as she wished to be to keep their night secret she lingered near, her eyes and ears storing up the essence of him as she moved reluctantly from his arms.&nbsp; There would be more time, she had to convince herself, there had to be.<br><br>With one last tender look, she slipped from the room, shutting the door quietly behind her, her fingers automatically moving to braid her hair into a tight braid that fell to her waist.&nbsp; Unnoticed, she took the back stairs two at a time toward the cellar, her fingers still working her hair up into the high knot that was expected of her in the kitchens.<br><br>It wasn't long before she was dressed in her normal scullery drabs and in the kitchen measuring out ingredients for the cook for breakfast--eggs, rashers of bacon and the gatherings to make fresh biscuit and bread.&nbsp; Moving to the great fireplace, she stoked the coals, the fire giving a gentle whuff of warmth before it banked, Meg moving to shovel more coal into the grate.&nbsp; An automatic hand reached out for the kettle, as she moved to fill it before returning it to the ledge within the great hearth.<br><br>All was well, and soon on its way to a normal day...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>10-01-2011, 16:24:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Would stir only slowly for the day, unlike her whom must have duties. His were minimal, he had set aside time away from his work to mourn his wife, and to celebrate his sons birthday. So when he rose and finally bathed and dressed it was later in the afternoon, he had not called for breakfast, and did not want it. Though, he knew many of the staff would grow fretful for his lack of eating breakfast, and one in particular he was sure. <br><br>Stepping from his room, he took a slow breath, dressed fairly well, he had been a bit more..lax with his appearance the last weeks time, but he had decided it was time to clean himself up some. He'd taken the time to shave so his cheeks were clean and smooth again, his eyes looked less tired, and the dark circles beneath his eyes were fading rather than growing deeper as they had been. Soon he found his son in the library with one of his teachers, studying over a book. Resting his shoulder against a wall he watched them in silence for a short while unnoticed. <br><br>Would Alec love his real mother? Could he? Was the only person who was afraid of ending the ruse that they had concocted him? Shaking his head softly he glanced to his side, his ever aware manservant not far from sight, the man close to ran the house when he was away, making affairs smooth as possible. He was also one of the few whom knew Meg's true identity, after all, he had helped find the girl. But he was one of them that had not been against it as much as the other few older staff. No he had supported Alex, like a brother, and a best friend. "Gregory, please have some lunch brought up for me and Alec." He spoke giving a nod to the man whom returned it and turned to head for the kitchens. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>10-01-2011, 19:08:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A hand gripped her elbow as she calmly sliced the roast for the midday meal, still steaming from its recent home among the coals.&nbsp; The cook was retrieving pots of stewed potatoes and vegetables from the hooks over the fire, loaves of bread sitting on the worktable near the fire, but the grip was insistent, as was the voice at her ear.<br><br>"Miss Margaret, his lordship would like to take his luncheon with his son.&nbsp; They are in the library, if you would take them a tray.&nbsp; I am sure Helen can manage for a little while without you."&nbsp; The butler's gaze steeled on the form of the plump cook, who looked as if she were about to protest when his gaze tolerated no protest.<br><br>"Of course, Mister Gregory.&nbsp; I shall be up directly."&nbsp; Meg's soft reply was nearly lost in the cook's bustle to the pantry for a tray and dishes to serve them on.&nbsp; Put together rather quickly, she was accompanied by the butler to the library, the door slightly ajar.&nbsp; Gregory was the one to knock, announcing that their lunch had come.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>10-01-2011, 21:31:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Alex lifted his head lightly, he'd come into the library at that point and settled down letting his son continue his lesson while he read a book waiting for lunch to arrive. When it did and Gregory announced it he glanced up and his eyes stuck on Meg for a moment before turning to Gregory. The older man was a sly he was sure, but how much so he didnt know. "Thank you Gregory." He spoke before closing his book and moving to sit on the couch with Alec. "You can continue your lessons after lunch Alec." He spoke nodding to the teacher, dismissing him to get his own lunch pretty much.<br><br>When the teacher left and the tray settled he glanced to Gregory. "You as well Gregory, go enjoy a lunch." Turning to Meg though he gave a small nod. "You should bring your lunch up Meg." Moving a hand to rub against Alec's back the boy sitting forward to start onto the lunch brought up for him. He was being foolish again, but seeming to care a little less that he was. Feeling abit more sane after a good nights rest he still insisted on doing the not so sane things.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>The Dark Raven</strong> on <strong>14-01-2011, 03:48:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Only when both the tutor and Gregory had gone did she dare look up to watch her son briefly.&nbsp; Smiling fondly at them both, she couldn't suppress the love that shone in her eyes, if only for a mere unguarded moment.&nbsp; "May I stay with you here, sir?&nbsp; Helen doesn't usually send us off until everyone is fed--"&nbsp; She was not truly hungry as yet, and even if she were, she would forfeit the hunger for the chance to be close...<br><br>She was a fool, but she could not bear to tear herself away.&nbsp; It was the very reason she had been forced to leave the home after Alec's birth--she loved them both.&nbsp; She wanted to get to know her son, even if she were only allowed the luxury in such small bits and pieces...it was a way to sate her own desires to be the mother she was never allowed to be.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: In Service (ObscureObscenities and Daylily)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ObscureObscenities</strong> on <strong>14-01-2011, 05:34:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gave a faint nod for a moment. "Alright." He figured that if she went down she would be caught into some duties again, and for the moment he could see that look in her eyes, that warm loving look that was eager and wanting to be close to her son. Knowing it firmly he licked his lips slightly for the time before shifting next to his son whom was happy to share lunch with his father. <br><br>Alec blinked up to Meg for a moment giving a soft frown. "Your new here, aren't you?" The boy was intelligent, and he knew all the staff fairly well, they were his friends after all. He lifted the sandwich that was made for him taking a bite before setting it down carefully cleaning his lips to keep from making a mess. "What's your name?" He asked curiously still looking on the woman, she was pretty.<br><br>Alex kept his silence for the time, wanting to give Meg this, she had been helpful and kind to him, keeping him comfortable in bed, helping him sleep. Maybe this was his gift in return for her affection and closeness, letting her get to spend some time with her son. He may not be able to do it often, but he did want to do it for her, let her see her son, talk with him, just little things.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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