Drabble – Oh, one more thing, the dog. Part 2

M-rated chapter.

A reviewer asked for a part 2 on the drabble. So here is a part 2, I hope it is what you wished for.

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Robert woke up with a heavenly smell in his nose. Cora was lying across his chest. Her arm draped over his chest. Her hair was in his face. He smirked thinking about last night. Cora had promised him, that afternoon, that she would thank him properly, and she did not disappoint him.

As soon as they could say goodnight, she had gone upstairs. Before she left the room she had asked him to help her with something. It had taken him some time to realize what she wanted. But as soon as it clicked, he also left the rest of the family and rushed upstairs.

She had been waiting for him, already undressed and only covered in a very thin underdress. Not her usual night clothes. He knew he was in for a treat. Her hair was loose, which indicated O’Brien had not helped her undress. Robert had felt heat creeping up in his groin, just looking at her.

Thinking about what she had done after, made Robert’s manhood grow again. He stirred, trying to get it down. Cora was still sleeping so peacefully, that he did not want to disturb her. But he felt Cora move and her hand went down, cupping him. It made him shutter. On his chest he felt Cora’s giggles.

“Nice memories?” She said in her morning voice. A sound that aroused Robert even more. Her voice was low and a bit raspy. Incredibly sexy he thought. Her hand had moved back up to his chest and Cora shifted so she was facing him. He wrapped his arm around her to keep her close to his body.

Cora’s chestnut brown curls surrounded her angelic face. Even after a night of sleep, she managed to look, as to be in perfect order. He took a deep breath and noticed again how nice she smelled. She smelled fresh he realised.

“Yoy have been up.” He softly squeezed her side, what erupted another giggle from her mouth.

“And what if I have?” She brushed her nose against his. Teasing him by coming this close but not kissing him.

“You are all fresh and here I am still scented with the night.”

Cora’s lips moved over his neck, which gave him Goosebumps. “And what if I like your natural smell?” He felt the tip of her tongue brush against his skin.

With both hands on her hips he pushed her of him. “I will freshen up real quick.” He could taste his own breath and he did not like it.”

Cora let out a disappointed growl. “What about my needs?” Her fingers played with his chest hair and she tried to lay on him again. But Robert quickly got up and walked towards the bathroom. He would at least brush his teeth he thought.

He was brushing his teeth when he felt Cora’s hands on his back. “I do not like you this far away from me.” She leaned her head against his back and her hands rested on his stomach.

Robert melted, she was so adorable. He spit out the toothpaste and dried off his face before turning around. He felt Cora press her pelvis against his groin.

“Did I not please you enough last night?” He moved his hand over her hips and bum. Her soft flesh was palpable through her nightgown. And he knew he wasn’t satisfied himself either. He moved his hand to Cora’s warm spot and pressed his fingers in. He felt her heat and started lifting the hem of her gown. Her fingers started to dig into the flesh on his shoulder blades. Her head was leaning backwards. This encouraged Robert even more to reach her spot as quickly as possible. He pulled down her underpants and cupped her spot with his whole hand. He felt a shudder go through Cora’s body and her legs go weak. With one arm around her waist, he was holding her up, while he moved two fingers inside her. The sounds that erupted from Cora’s throat made him go on at an even higher pace. His fingers were getting wet and he knew he was touching her in the right spot

He knew exactly how her body reacted on him and just before she reached her high he pulled back, leaving a panting Cora hanging on his arm. “I think it is time to start our day.” He teased.

He instantly felt Cora’s grip on him getting stronger. She stood straight. “You can not leave me hanging, not like this.” She pressed her body against him and her lips crashed into his. She forced her tongue in.

Softly Cora bit his lip and her hand was cupping his manhood again. “I do not believe, you can go on with your day, in this state. You will have to avoid me the whole day, so the staff will not see your desire. She teased him back.

His swollen part was resting in Cora’s hand and he knew she was right. It was one thing leaving her in despair for him, but he would be in the same state and that would be more visible for everyone.

Cora’s other hand was playing with his hair. Her fingers brushing over his scalp sent a relaxed feeling through his body and he wished he could be with her the rest of the day. But the house had turned into a convalescent home and there was not a chance they could spend this day together. As soon as Cora got downstairs she would be consumed with her duties. He loved seeing Cora in her element, but at the same time, he hated it. It meant there was less time for him and she would be exhausted at the end of the day. Leaving no room for them as a couple. Did they make a mistake by opening up their house? Was he capable of this?

“He.” Cora said softly. “what is bothering you.” Cora’s soft voice soothed him. She had let go of his manhood and her hand was now resting on his chest. There was a worried look on her face. Her other hand was still massaging his scalp, but not in the sensual way she was doing it just a couple of minutes ago. This was clearly to make him relax.

Robert let out a deep sigh. “I am sorry for ruining the mood.” He had meant it as teasing when he stopped pleasing her just now, and he intended to finish it on their bed. But the sexual tension that was hanging in the air had cleared up.

Cora leaned her head on his shoulder and she softly kissed his neck. “The duty of today is already resting on your shoulders. It is alright. We had fun last night and I cannot say that it was unpleasant this morning.”

He kissed Cora’s temple and pressed her even closer against his chest. “Thank you. I love you my dearest one.”

“And I love you, my darling Robert, my hero.” Cora pressed her lips once more on his. There was so much tenderness in this kiss. No sexual intention, this kiss was meant to calm him down and settle him. Something only his Cora could do, ground him without words. One hand on his face, the other on his neck. Her soft fingers, brushed over his skin, making sure he calmed down and was ready to face another day.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 2

“Are you ready? The chauffeur is waiting.”

Cora closed her eyes on hearing her mother’s voice. She felt incredibly sad having to leave her home, only because her father decided he wanted to work with a British company. And now here she was all packed to go to a foreign country. Why was he not just going himself? What was the reason they were sending her away.

She would be in a country that she did not know. She would not have any friends there. She knew how British people looked down on Americans. The people at ‘Crawley Advertisements’ would not be different.

“Cora? Did you hear me?” Martha’s voice sounded again.

“Yes mum, I am coming.” Cora closed the last suitcase and walked towards the hallway. She turned around and gave her room a last look. This was the room she grew up in. She had never suspected that she would leave this place, other than going to live on her own.

She had mentioned to her parents before, that she wanted to move out and find her own place. But her father had always said, she was better off staying at home, until she would marry. Cora huffed, look at the situation now, she thought. He was sending her away. Playing it off that it would be good for the business. ‘Levinson and Son’ was a big name in the United States. Every company that needed advertisement, came to them. Cora was convinced her father did not need the Crawley company to expand and grow in the United Kingdom. Did they even know that she was coming and not her brother Harold?

Why was he not going? She had asked her father, but his answer had been misleading and without a real answer. Her mother had not been much more help, and she even suspected her mother to be the reason she was sent off to England. She had always dreamed of her daughter marrying into British nobility.

A loud sound made Cora jump, right behind her stood her mother. She had stomped with her feet, which made the sound. “It is a private flight, so even if you arrive late, the plane will wait. Stop stalling and move.” Her mother’s words were hissed at her. Cora felt the hairs in her neck rise, her mother always managed to crawl under her skin.

“Yes, mother.” Cora followed her mother meekly. It was pointless to try and stop everything that was happening at this point. She would make the best of it she thought.

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In the car, she was surprised to see Harold, her mother had stayed behind with her father. She could see the tears in her mother’s eyes and she knew that her harsh behavior came from sorrow. Although her mother was the one sending her away, Cora knew it did hurt her mother to see her daughter go so far away.

“Are you ready for this big adventure?” Harold asked.

Cora shrugged her shoulders. “I do not have a choice, do I?”

“You will have an amazing time in England. You will show those cavemen how the real and new world operates.”

“England is not a third-world country, Harold.” Every time her family talked about England, they pretended it was a poor stay-behind country. It was something she did not understand, especially not because her mother wanted her to marry an English lord, but at the same time, they always talked badly about the country. She sighed because she knew it would be the other way around once she arrived in London. The way they viewed Americans was almost comical.

“Harold?” Cora turned towards her brother. “Why are you not going instead of me?”

Harold raised his eyebrows. “Why do you ask?”

“Papa has always treated you as his partner, not me.”

“Nonsense.” Harold interrupted her.

“Is it though? What is the name of the company?”

“What do you mean?”

“As I say, what is the name of the company? It is Levinson and Son, am I right?” She saw Harold’s cheeks slightly colour. “I am not even mentioned in the name. Papa always thought I would only join for the time being until I would marry.”

“In that case Papa is right, you are 21 and it is time you will settle.”

“I am 22 and you are older and also not married!” Cora shot at Harold.

“That is different.”

“Just because you are a man it is different? That is rubbish and you know that. Papa and also you never saw me as a full partner in de company, but now you want to expand in England, I am good enough to do the dirty work?”

“Who knows, what if the love of your life walks around in London?” Harold laughed when he saw Cora’s angry face. He put his hand on Cora’s. “My darling sister, whatever Papa and Mama want to be the outcome of this adventure. Look at it as an adventure and just enjoy the chance to widen your world. And you will be able to show what we can do and make a name in England. Because of what you are going to do, we will have departments in England before we know it.”

Cora contemplated his words. Why did ‘Crawley Advertisements’ agree with this? They must know what the intentions of ‘Levinson and Son’ were. Or, she thought, they were going for the same goal. Opening offices in America.

She was caught up in this web, and she would not fight it. She had fought before, and look at where she was now. In a car towards the airport. Her brother was with her, to make sure she would step into that plane.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 1

Robert 25, Cora 22. Both work for their fathers and have to work together. Cannot stand each other, and see their promised future evaporate in front of their eyes.

Robert stared at his father in disbelief. Was he serious? He always told him, he would be his successor in the company and now? Now he was supposed to work together with somebody else. And to make matters worse, somebody coming from America! How could somebody from America make a difference here in England? He did not need help, his father taught him everything he needed to know. And when his father wanted to extend the company in America, he could do that himself.

“You will work together, whether you like it or not,” Patrick said when he saw Robert’s face. His son could be incredibly stubborn and a bit arrogant in his manners. Now I have another meeting, make sure the office is ready next week. I want to see a clear desk with a correct set-up.”

Robert was steaming, why was his father doing this? Was this his punishment for losing that one client? He knew he had messed up, but it was the first time and he was able to bring in other clients. And it was not as if the company would go bankrupt without that one big player. He realised they would have been settled for the coming years if he had tried a little bit harder. But what was done, was done.

He opened his laptop and wrote an email to the IT department. To forward all his father’s wishes for this new colleague. Then he called Rosamund if she had time for lunch.

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“Do you know why Papa is bringing that American to our company.”

“A very good afternoon to you too.” Rosamund kissed Robert’s cheek. “Good to see you my dear brother.”

Robert gave Rosamund an annoyed look. “I am not in the mood for this.” He said.

Rosamund raised her eyebrows. “Well, that is your problem, not mine. I still suspect you to say a proper hello to me.”

Robert sighed but leaned in to kiss her cheek. “Hello Rosamund, how are you doing?”

“I am well, thank you for asking.” Rosamund answered, which earned her yet another irritated look from Robert. She decided to poke Robert a little bit more. She loved how easily she could annoy her brother. “I heard Papa asked someone from a company in America to come and help us out.”

“Help us out!” Robert shouted, what made the whole room in the Ritz look up. “Help us out? You mean spy on how we do things, so they can copy us.”

Rosamund made a sussing sound. “Robert, we are in public, please lower your voice.”

“You know Papa made a mistake by inviting that American company to work with us.” He continued on a lower volume.

“I do not know why you are so against this idea.” She gave Robert a warning look. “Papa always said he wants to expand the business, and what better way than to work with another company that knows the market in the USA?”

“We want our, own name out there in America. With this, we will only make their company bigger, but we will not get any exposure ourselves.”

“Why do you not trust Papa. He knows what he is doing. He started Crawley advertisements from scratch and look at how big we are now.” Rosamund paused when a waiter approached.

“I will go for the veal, and you?” Robert looked at Rosamund.

“For me the sea bass, please.” Rosamund said. “And you know what whine we drink. Thank you.” Rosamund smiled at the waiter and turned back towards Robert. “Let us have an open mind towards that new colleague.”

Robert sighed. “You are no help at all. What does Mama say of all this?”

“She is against everything American you know that.”

“Papa has real guts to go on with this. Well, although I love him dearly. In this case, I hope he will realise that he made a mistake.”

“Let us talk about more fun things.” Rosamund was tired of this conversation. “When will you have your next date?”

Robert was confused for a second. “You mean with Claire?”

Rosamund’s face lit up. “Yes. When will we meet her?”

An annoyed sigh left Robert. “Never. Rosamund, stop interfering with my love life will you? Claire is not my type, and I do not even think I am her type.”

“Nobody is ever your type. It is time you are going to find someone to marry.”

“Am I here at lunch with my sister or my mother?”

“Am I wrong then?” Rosamund shot back.

The waiter came with their order, which interrupted them.

Robert started cutting his meat. “How is Marmaduke?”

Rosamund’s cheeks coloured bright red, that made Robert chuckle. She loved sticking her nose in his business, but when it came to her own love life, she was not willing to share much.

“He is fine. Thank you for asking.”

“I think he is more than fine.” Robert said with a naughty tone in his voice. This made Rosamund’s cheeks burn even more.

“Stop it.” Rosamund hissed. She was head over heels in love with Marmaduke, but as long as they did not tie the knot, she would not keep her hopes up to high.

Robert put his hand on Rosamund’s arm. “My darling sister, he loves you. You should not worry about that.”

Drabble – Can’t we stop this beastly row?

“Your enthusiasm is getting the

better of your manners.” Isobel said to Violet. 

The conversation was going in the wrong direction, Robert felt awful. He felt his stomach turn and turn. “Can’t we stop this beastly row?” He was not sure how much longer he could sit at this table.

“How I wish we could.” Cora felt embarrassed that they were having this discussion. The minister was used as a rope to pull on. What was happening now was exactly what she feared. She gave Neville Chamberlain an apologetic look.

“Because I…” Robert got up.

Cora looked at him with bewildered eyes, what was he doing? Why was he getting up? He looked terrible she thought. His face was white as the linen on the table. He looked like he was going to vomit, she thought.

Robert knew he needed to get away from the table. His stomach made a horrible twist. “I… I’m so sorry…” He could not walk away on time, and he spewed blood all over the table.

Cora’s shock grew, and she stared at what was happening in front of her eyes. She could not believe her eyes. The white linen in front of her turned red and Robert made the most horrible sound she had ever heard. He leaned back and spewed again, this time it hit her in the face. The moment the blood hit her, she got out of her trance and shot up. She rushed around the table to get to him. She needed to get to Robert. She could not lose him, not yet. Why was this table so big?

“Thomas, on his left side.” Dr. Clarkson shouted his orders.

Robert got turned on his side, he was in too much shock to realise what was happening. He had just coughed up blood all over Cora, that was what he knew. He heard a lot of commotion around him. He felt a sharp pain in his stomach, it felt like something inside him had ruptured.

“Give me napkins!” It was Isobel who sprang into action and tried to help with this situation, while Mary, Edith, and Violet al watched in shock, frozen in time.

“I’ll call the ambulance.” Carson rushed out the dining room.

“Keep him warm.” Lord Merton took of his coat and handed it to Thomas. “Take my coat.” He said.

“What is it?” Violet said in panic.

Dr. Clarkson answered. “His ulcer has burst.”

Cora had finally reached the other side of the table and she kneeled down next to Robert. Trying to get closer to him. It felt like hours had already gone by, before she was next to him, she thought. She put her hand under Robert’s head, and leaned forward so she was in his vision.

“What?” Mary gasped.

“Will he be all right?” Edith asked.

Cora took the napkins Isobel handed to her and held them under Robert’s face. Making sure Robert knew she was next to him. He needed to know she was there, she thought.

“We must get him to hospital as quickly as we can.” Dr. Clarkson said.

Robert felt more blood coming up and he spewed again. He noticed Cora’s hand trying to catch it with a napkin. Her other hand was holding up his head. The love of his life was next to him, he hated to be this vulnerable in front of her and everybody else.

“I’m here, darling, don’t worry.” Cora said, trying to keep her voice calm and collective. Internally she was running on stress, but she needed to stay calm for Robert. She made sure her hand was under his head, so he did not have to hold it up himself.

“If this is it” Robert panted. “Just know I have loved you very, very much.” His stomach did hurt immensely, and it felt as he was dying. The taste of blood in his mouth and throat was horrible. If this was the last time he could look Cora in the eye, he needed to make sure she knew how much she meant to him. She was his everything, his base in life.

Cora got scared by Robert’s words. But she kept her calm and said: “This isn’t it, darling. We

won’t let this be it.” Her voice was steady, she did not know how she did it. But she saw the plead in Robert’s eyes. She needed to be his rock once more, and if this was the last time, she could be that for him. She would, she would not butch, she would stay strong until the end. The room around her faded and she was alone with Robert on the ground. vaguely she heard her mother-in-law say.

“Some water?”

“No!” Dr. Clarkson said firm. “No water. Just keep him steady until the ambulance arrives.”

Cora could only look at Robert. He was squirming on the ground, he must be in so much pain, was the only thing that went through her head. How she wished she could do something, to take away that pain. Her fingers brushing over the back of his head, as if touching him, could make him stay with her. Why was that ambulance taken so long? She could not lose him, as she was his rock, he was hers. He had always been there, he had been her safe haven when she had, had a rough day. After a day of being moulded into the restricted corset life by her mother-in-law, she could crawl into the safe arms of Robert at night. When she did not give him a son, and her mother-in-law blamed her for it, Robert had been her pilar to lean on. The love he showed her and the girls, made all the unpleasant moments with Violet bearable. 

The room around her started to come back, she was aware of all the sounds again. She saw Violet sitting next to her, pale and shocked. Over the years Violet had turned softer, but once again, she had tried to mould the situation to her liking. Was that what had caused Robert’s ulcer burst? The stress around tonight? Should she had given in to her mother-in-law? No, no, she was right in this. The new situation would be better, and they should go on with it. Violet was old fashioned in her views and this time Cora would not butch.

The door opened and Carson rushed in with the paramedics.

The truth always comes out, chapter 51

The car approached the gate at the beginning of their driveway. Robert felt nerves flutter through his body, he sensed Cora was nervous too. They were on their way to tell the girls the good news. He was incredibly happy Cora had taken everything with her. They were going to keep her London house as a second home. This way they did not have to stay at Rosamund’s.

Just before they entered the gate, the car stopped. And Robert started to get out. “Robert? Where are you going?” Cora asked surprised.

He did not answer, but reached for her hand.

“Robert? Why are we getting out?” Cora did not like what was going on. She was incredibly nervous to go into Downton. All the staff would be present, she knew and probably Violet too. She would have heard about Cora coming back and knowing her, she did not want to miss anything.

Robert pleaded with Cora with his eyes to come out of the car. “Before we will be overwhelmed with everything, I would love to have a couple of minutes with just you.”

Cora sighed but got out of the car.

“Your luggage will be in your rooms, Milord.” The chauffeur said and left when Robert closed the door.

“Are we walking up to the house?” Cora said surprised and a little bit annoyed. She was not wearing the type of shoes to walk on the gravel path towards the house.

Robert looked at her, not sure why she was against walking. They had made countless walks over the grounds of Downton. “I can call so the driver will come back to pick us up.?”

Cora saw the look in Robert’s and she softened her tone. “We can walk on the grass, and you are right I love walking with you.” She gave him one of her radiant smiles.

Robert took her hand and kissed her knuckles. Then he got down on one knee, what erupted a gasp from Cora.

“My darling Cora, I have not made the last couple of months easy for you. But I want to make up for them. I am blessed and very grateful that you are willing to try again with me. I do not deserve your kindness, but I am grabbing it with both hands. I want to hold on to you and cherish you, the way you deserve.” The look in Cora’s eyes made him chock up. He swallowed in an attempt to get the lump out of his throat.

Cora’s eyes were watery, she wanted to pull Robert up and wrap her arms around him. She would never let him go, never. He was back in her life and they would make it work. She belonged to him. She softly squeezed his hands, when she saw him visible swallow. She already knew her answer to his question and it took her great effort not to say it already.

Robert felt Cora’s encouragement and continued. “I remember the first time and got on one knee for you as if it was yesterday and like that time. I do not want to ask this on the grounds of Downton. Because also this time, Downton is not the reason I am going to ask this question.

Cora remembered Robert’s proposal vividly. He took her to Greenwich in London. He rented the Royal Observatory for a special evening. They had dinner on the terrace, with a stunning view of the garden and the city. A harper had been playing beautiful music. After the wonderful 5 course dinner, he had asked the question. She knew the reason why he had persuaded her, he needed money to save Downton. Her family was rich and she would get a large dowry once she would marry. But during their courtship, Robert had fallen in love with her head over heels, like she had on the first date they had. He had taken her hand and guided her to the dancefloor, where he had waltzed with her like they had been partners for ages. After his proposal, he explained why he had chosen this location. He did not want to ask her at Downton, because he wanted her to know that he loved her and wanted to marry her because of who she was and not because of her money. But mostly he had chosen this location because she had changed time for him. With her in his life, it felt like time did not exist anymore. Cora felt a slight tug on her hands and she realised she had not been listening. She blinked and focused on Robert again.

“Cora. Do you want to be my wife again? Do you want to marry me?”

Cora felt the tears streaming down her face. Robert was holding up a ring, she moved her hands to his face. She bent down and kissed him passionately. She murmured: “Yes.”

Robert got up, while he kept his mouth on Cora’s. Her almost silent yes, was enough. He felt the movement on her lips. Her arms wrapped around his neck and he felt her body pressed against his. He put his hands on the small of her back and dug his nails into her skin. He wanted her as close as possible. She was going to be Mrs Crawley again. She would be Lady Grantham again.

“I love you!” Cora said when she pulled back. She brushed his cheek with her hand, leaned in again and pressed another kiss on his lips. “With everything that I am, I love you. And I cannot wait to be Mrs. Crawley again.”

Robert gave her one of his sheepish smiles. “I never stopped loving you, my dear.” He put the ring on Cora’s finger.

Cora took his hand. “Let’s go tell the girls, they are waiting for us.”

“One more thing.” Robert stopped Cora who started walking. He took something out of his pocket and gave it to Cora.

Cora looked at the item, it was an old key. Not knowing what this meant she looked at Robert. “Is this the key to your heart? Because I do not need a key for that.” She kissed him again, but she felt Robert shake his head.

“No, this is the key of the door between your room and my dressing room.”

Cora raised her eyebrows, she remembered her asking Carson to remove that key. She did not want a barrier between her and Robert. Why was this key back again?

“I know what you are thinking. You ask for this key to be removed. But I think it is important that you have it back. You need to be able to lock that door.”

“Robert? No. No, I do not want this key. Darling, I trust you and like I said then, I say now. I trust you to not break that trust by entering when I ask you not to do so.”

“We will put the key in a drawer.” Robert said.

Cora shook her head and leaned in so she could brush her nose over Robert’s. “I am going to marry you again because I want things to be back to what they were and that means that the door between those two rooms will never be locked. Come on.” She hooked her arm in his and started walking. “It is time to start this next chapter of our lives.”

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This was the last chapter of this story. I want to thank all my readers and everybody who left a review. Those reviews helped me a lot in this story because sometimes I did not know where to go. In the end, I hope it was a good story. There is an idea forming for the next story, so I will keep writing 🙂

Drabble – But there was a chance!

“But Sybil was going to die?” Robert said defeated. He could hear Cora’s shallow breathing.  The way she had said. ‘But, there was a chance.” Almost broke him. Not knowing what he was hoping for, he kept looking at Dr. Clarkson. Sybil was dead and Cora was blaming him for her death. And he could understand that.

“When everything is weighed in the balance, I believe that Lady Sybil was going to die.” Dr. Clarkson paused.

Cora was fighting to hold her tears back. She felt her nose getting wet. She saw Robert’s shoulders bent forward, he was standing in front of her, his back turned towards her. Until now she was blaming him for Sybil’s death. He had not listened to Dr. Clarkson but followed that Harley Street doctor. She heard Dr. Clarkson say:

“And now I will take my leave.” Dr. Clarkson nodded towards, Violet, Robert and Cora.

The moment he closed the door, Cora let out a sob. She could not hold it in and she did not care she was crying in front of her mother-in-law. She had lost her beauty and her baby. Losing a child, was not something she was expecting to live through. The loss of their baby boy before it could take its first breath had been a tough time. But losing their darling girl was something she could not live with. How was she going to face another day?

Robert turned around towards Cora. He saw her frail figure. Her eyes and the tip of her nose were red from her held-back tears. He saw her braking, the moment Dr. Clarkson stepped outside. She had rejected him since Sybil died. She blamed him for everything, and he could not blame her for doing that. But he could not watch her broken figure. A soft sob left her mouth.

Cautiously he stepped closer, her head was down. He wrapped his arms around her. At first, she did not react, besides lifting her chin. The moment their body’s touched he felt a sob coming from his own mouth. Then her arms rose and wrapped around him. He pulled her even closer, while he felt her arms move over his back. Her face pressed into his neck. She was not holding back, and her body jolted from her sobs.

Violet turned around as soon as she saw Robert stepping towards Cora. Once she realised the sobbing did not stop, she quietly left the room. They were finally grieving together. It was time and the only way to healing. She was relieved Dr. Clarkson wanted to help her. Although he blamed Sir Philip Tapsell, he was willing to say the things he had just said.

Cora buried her face in Robert’s neck. She could not stop her sobs. They were finally coming out in full force. Being able to hold Robert in her arms again soothed her, at the same time it had broken the dam, that was holding her grief inside. Her Sybil would have died, whatever they had tried that evening. Her precious angel did not stand a chance.

She pressed herself even firmer against Robert when she noticed he was crying too. The last time she saw him cry was when he had lost all their money. She felt guilty, for pushing him away. Blaming everything on him, but now she was holding him in her arms again.

Robert felt so much relief when Cora kept holding on to him. As if she could restore her strength through his body. He could not lose his Cora too, having to miss his darling little girl was already too much. But Cora was back in his arms. They would go through this together.

After a while, he felt Cora take a deep breath and slowly loosen her grip on him. She stepped back and searched for a handkerchief in her small purse. Robert reached for his handkerchief and handed it to her.

She started dabbing her nose. “Mama has left,” Robert said quietly. He saw Cora look up to where she had been standing, and when she confirmed herself, Violet had left. She blew her nose. This almost made Robert chuckle. Her uncontrollable crying was already not ladylike, Mama would not have minded her blowing her nose.

“I am sorry.” Cora said with a still chocked voice.

Robert took Cora’s hands in his and only shook his head.

“I blamed Sybil’s death on you. You followed his advice which turned out to be the wrong one. We lost our darling Sybil, but we would have lost her anyway. Whatever we would have done. She would have died.” Her voice got stuck in her throat when a new wave of tears hit her.

Robert saw Cora breaking again and pulled her in his arms again. Pressing her firmly against him. He cupped her head and pressed it against his shoulder. He felt her hands on his shoulder blades, her fingers digging into his skin to keep him close.

“I was stubborn that night. I should have trusted Dr. Clarkson.”

He felt Cora shaking her head and her soft. “No”

“I cannot blame you for blaming me.” He continued. “I wish I could have been there for you in your grief. But I gave in and left you alone.”

Cora pushed herself back and looked up at him. She saw a broken man, who had been struggling on his own. “No, I should not have blamed you. I was not there to grieve with you. I blamed you and I was wrong for doing that. We need each other and I took that away from you. You lost your baby girl and I pushed you away.”

“We. Cora. We lost our darling girl.”

Cora nodded. “You are right. We. It should always be: we.” Her shoulders folded forwards. She felt incredibly tired all of a sudden. When she looked at Robert’s face, she saw her exhaustion reflected on his face. “Let us go home.”

“Can we go to Sybil’s grave first?” He stopped and looked at Cora’s worn-out face. He wanted to put her down in bed and curl up against her. But something inside said they should go to her grave together.

Cora looked at Robert’s face, she slowly took his hand in hers with a soft squeeze she answered him.

+++

Robert took in a shaky breath, standing in front of Sybil’s grave, with Cora next to him was too much. It was his own idea to go here, but he had not realised how much it would hurt.

Cora stared at Sybil’s grave, it felt unreal. As if it was all a dream. When she looked at her side, she saw Robert slowly breaking down. He sunk onto his knees and cried uncontrollably.

“You were to young, my darling. To young.” He cried.

Cora lowered herself next to him, not caring about the dirt that would get on her dress. She wrapped her arms around Robert and pressed him against her chest. She made soft sussing sounds.

Robert attached himself to Cora. He needed her more than ever, he realised. Finally, he felt himself calm down. “You do not know the amount of times, I read something in the paper and wanted to go to Sybil and tell her about it. But the moment I got up, and realised she was not there anymore. Oh, Cora, it hurts so much. How do we go on without her?”

Cora had taken his hand in hers, their hands rested on her lap. “We have to. We will find a way. Mary and Edith still need us. And Sybbie and Tom do too.”

“Darling Sybbie. We will protect her from the harsh world and make sure she gets everything she needs.”

Cora did not answer, her thumb brushed over Robert’s hand. Robert started to get up, what made Cora look at him.

“It is time to go home.” He said, helping her off the ground. He tried to brush off the dirt that was on the skirt of her dress. He looked at her face again. He saw dark circles under her eyes, and the sparkle that was normally in her eyes had vanished. The lines around her eyes and mouth had gotten deeper. He raised his hand to her cheek. “Together.” This made the corners of her mouth go up a little bit.

“Together,” Cora said. “Together we will be able to face what is coming.” She hooked her arm in his and they started the walk back to the house.

The truth always comes out, chapter 50

Cora circled her hand over Robert’s back. He was still retching. “It was a bit sour, was it not?” She said, trying not to laugh.

Robert gave her a side eye before he spewed again.

They had eaten Robert’s dish, but something had been wrong. Cora’s stomach was upset, but Robert had tp run to the bathroom.

Cora kept circling his back until he sat back and she felt him relax. “I do not understand how you are not reacting to this awful taste.” He said.

Cora chuckled. “It was not a nice taste and my stomach is protesting a bit, but I did not eat as much as you did. What did you use to make this so sour?”

“I will show you.” Robert got up and walked towards the kitchen. He opened one of the cabinets and took a bottle. “This.” He showed Cora the bottle of wine vinegar.

“And how much did you use?”

“I filled this measuring cup.”

Cora started to laugh. “You filled this to the top?

Robert started to stutter. “Uhm, yes?”

“Did Mrs. Patmore not tell you how much you needed to use?

“50ml, so that is what I did.”

“Darling this is a 500ml cup.” Cora said still laughing.

Robert’s cheeks were now burning red. “No wonder it tasted this awful and made me throw up.”

“You tried and that is what counts. I love the fact you wanted to cook for me. Let’s throw this.” She was holding up the pan. “In the trash and I will make something else.” Cora paused and looked at Robert. “If you still want to eat something?”

Robert moved his hand to his stomach. “I am not sure.”

“I will make a simple dish, mashed potato with peas. It will help calm down your stomach.”

+++

Rosamund saw a familiar figure coming out of a building onto the streets. “Mary?” She said surprised, when she noticed what building she just came out of.

Startled Mary turned around. “Aunt Rosamund?”

Rosamund looked at the building and back to Mary. “Are you?”

“Do not tell anybody, but yes.”

“Oh Mary, congratulations, what a wonderful news.” Rosamund stopped her enthusiasm when she saw Mary’s face. “It is good news? Is it not?”

Mary gave her a faint smile. “I am pregnant, but there are some complications, so Matthew and I are not telling it to anyone yet.”

“I understand, so I will withhold my congratulations just yet.”

“Does Mama have to work today? Or do you think she is at home?”

Rosamund felt her cheeks colour. “Maybe you better call her to check.”

“If she is not home, that is alright. I have a key, I can wait inside.”

“I truly think it is better when you first call.” Rosamund tried. She did not want Mary to walk in on her parents. And at the same time she knew they wanted to tell the girls together.

“Aunt Rosamund does my mother have a boyfriend or something, that I am not supposed to know about?”

Rosamund almost choked, her bright red cheeks told Mary everything.

“Well, although I had hoped that one day, Papa would be able to get Mama back. I understand why she has moved on.”

“It is not quite that.” How was she going to get out of this situation without telling Mary what was really going on.

Mary’s eyes grew big. “Papa is here with Mama! Is he not?” Mary’s voice went one octave higher. “He said he was going away for business, but he never said where he went. He is here in London, is he not?”

Rosamund nodded. “You were not supposed to know this already. They want to tell you girls when you are all together and they also need to sort some things out.”

“I am not sure if I could ever go back to Matthew when he cheated on me.”

Rosamund looked at Mary in shock. “Did your mother tell you that?”

“What? That Papa cheated on her? No, they did not say it in those words. But the gossip from the staff and Papa’s own words, that he did something unforgivable, made it easy to connect the dots.”

Rosamund let out a deep sigh. “Please do not tell your mother you know.”

“Mama is not stupid. She knows that we all know what Papa did.”

“That is not what I meant. Do not tell her you know that they are back together. Let them have their time to figure out how the future will look.”

+++

Cora was lying on her side. Robert had been with her here in London, for three days now. It was time to tell the girls and Mama. She looked at Robert’s sleeping figure. They had spent this day walking around Richmond and watching a movie in a cinema. Luckily Robert’s stomach had stopped hurting this morning. When they woke up he was not complaining about it.

It was weird still, to wake up and fall asleep next to Robert in this house. She was nervous about how it would be at Downton. Here Robert was stress-free and did not worry about the estate. Or at least, it felt that way. And also how would she feel being back where it all happened. The place where Robert kissed that maid.

She shook her head. No, she should not think about that. There were many more beautiful memories she could recall. The day Robert came back from a long trip to the mainland. She had been in one of the backrooms, she did not remember what she was doing and why she was there. But she remembered that it got dark all of a sudden when the door behind her closed. Before she could walk towards the door to open it again, she was pushed against the wall. Warm, soft and hungry lips pressed onto hers. Robert was back and he showed her how much he had missed her. She remembered trying not to make a sound when he got down on her and with his tongue circling her towards her high. She could feel her body still shutter from the pleasure he brought her.

The truth always comes out, chapter 49

“It makes me happy to finally see you two happy again.” Rosamund said.

Cora smiled. “I can only agree on that.” A warm feeling rose inside her, only by thinking of having Robert’s arms around her again. “Where are we going?”

“You know Michael left the magazine to Edith, right?” Rosamund started. “She has been contemplating what to do with it.”

“I wish I could help her with it.” Cora said timidly.

Rosamund took Cora’s hand and stopped her. “Edith knows you love her and that you always be there for her. She is an independent soul and does a lot of things on her own.” Seeing Cora’s sad expression, she continued. “That doesn’t mean she doesn’t need you, but she makes a lot of decisions without discussing them with anybody.”

“I know, but I always feel like I am not there enough for her.” Cora still was timid.

“Cora, we talked about this before. I can guarantee you that Edith loves you very much and she knows you love her.”

Cora sighed.

“Edith has made a decision, about the magazine and I understand my mother has a hand in it.”

Now Cora raised her eyebrows, they had started walking again. “Oh?”

“I was surprised too. But apparently the day after Mary’s wedding Mama asked Edith to come to her house. Yesterday I walked past the building and saw something. It made me smile.”

Cora felt her heart racing. “What is it?”

“I will not tell you, but it is something good. You have to see it yourself.”

+++

Cora’s eyes grew and she clapped her hand over her mouth. She looked at Rosamund and back at the building. “That’s Edith’s name?”

Rosamund had a proud smile on her face. “Michael was already planning on this, but indeed that is her name on that plate.”

“I am so proud of what she has accomplished. Do you think she is inside?” Cora walked towards the door already. Suddenly she turned around. “Why could Robert not come with us? This is not a secret; it is visible for everybody.”

“I am not sure what Robert’s view on this is and I did not want to upset him. Not now you two are finally in a good place again.”

Cora chuckled. “I am pretty positive; Robert will be proud as soon as he sees this.”

Rosamund did not say anything, but she could only hope Cora was right.

+++

“I was hoping you would still be here.” Cora wrapped her arms around Robert, her hand resting on his chest. She had walked up to him from behind, he was watching a film. She kissed his cheek.

Robert turned his head and looked up. “I could not go back home without a proper kiss from you.” He raised his hand and pulled Cora closer for a kiss.

Cora pulled back to get some air. “Does this mean you are leaving tonight?” She said pouting.

Robert smiled, he got up and walked around the sofa. He stopped a couple of inches in front of Cora. He did not touch her, but she felt the electrical tension between them. She hungered for his touch, his lips on hers. But he was with holding it from her. When she reached for his arm, he stepped back with a devious smile around his lips. “Do not tease me please.” She groaned. This made Robert’s smile only bigger.

“You stayed away for so long, I was tempted to leave without that kiss. But now you gave it to me.”

“No.” The sound came deep out of Cora’s throat. “I would not have stayed that long at Rosamund and Edith if I had known. Robert, please stay.” Cora pleaded him with her eyes.

He did not bulge and kept his distance. “They were more important?”

Cora was not sure if she still saw the same smile on his face, it had turned darker, his eyes had stopped smiling too. It took only a second, before his eyes lightened up again. He stepped forward and crashed into Cora’s lips. This got her by surprise and her almost gagged when he pushed his tongue inside her mouth. She needed a second to calm down and enjoy his touch. His hand roamed over her back and softly squeezed her bum. She felt her body relax again, what was that look she just saw? She was not sure, but she did not want to think about that now. He was kissing her and that was the only thing that counted at the moment.

With one last kiss, Robert stepped back again. “What was so important, that Rosamund had to take you away from me?” Cora’s face broke out in a smile again, Robert had to chuckle when he saw this. She was so beautiful and with this smile he saw her as his young bride again.

“Rosamund wanted to show me something.” Cora started.

“Yes, that I know.” Robert interrupted.

Cora felt a stone drop in her stomach, there was something wrong. She tried to ignore the feeling. “You know Michael left the magazine to Edith.”

“She told me.”

Not letting his tone throw her off she continued. “Her name is on the building; our daughter is an editor and publisher. A real magazine owner.”

Robert’s face did not show anything.

“Does this not make you proud?” Cora tried carefully.

“I do not know, what to think about this. Why can our girls not have normal professions?”

“What do you mean normal? Mary has her event company; her husband will follow in your footsteps at Downton. Sybil is a nurse in the local hospital and now Edith owns a company and is a publisher. What more do you want? Two of our girls are married, one is a mother and I think the other will follow soon.” She furrowed her eyebrows.

Robert felt guilty seeing Cora’s face go from utter happiness to this worried state, but he could not help feeling the way he did. “I bet they all want your help. Sybil with Sybbie, Mary with the company and now Edith needs you here in Londen. Where does that leave me?

“Sybil is capable of taking care of Sybbie herself, together with Tom. Mary is doing splendid with her company. I read about the last event she had, it got only good reviews. And I saw that the waitlist is getting longer. She does not need me anymore. I was there to help her start up. And when did Edith ever need my help? You know damn well that I wish I would have done more for Edith.” She felt tears behind her eyes, but she was not going to cry. She was not going to let Robert ruin this happy day. She straightened her back. “Now, you can change your behaviour, or sleep somewhere else tonight.”

Robert lowered his eyes. He had made a mistake. Again. AGAIN, he shouted internally. Carefully he took Cora’s hand in his. “I am behaving irrational, and I am sorry.”

Cora’s thumb brushed over Robert’s hand. “At least you are telling me what is bothering you, instead of shutting me out. The girls will always ask my time, as they do ask from you. This does not mean, there is no time left for you. Robert!” She tugged on his hands, to force him to look up. “I said that I was back, and I meant it. I am here and I want to be with you.” She pressed her lips softly against Robert’s. “Now, let’s see what we can make for dinner.”

“There is already something waiting in the fridge.” Robert said timidly.

Cora’s eyebrows shot up. “There is? Did you make something?”

“I rang Mrs. Patmore, and she guided me through the process, so I hope it is edible.”

Cora wrapped her arms around Robert’s neck. “It is made with love, that is what is important.”

“Did you tell Edith about us?” Robert asked, while putting his hands on her waist.

Cora shook her head. “That is something we will do together. But I want this to be our secret for a little while longer.”

“Ours, and Rosamund’s” Robert chuckled.

The truth always comes out, chapter 48

Cora tried to turn on her other side, but her leg was caught in something. There was also a heavy weight lying on her hair. Slowly she realised it was Robert, whose arm was on her hair and his leg was on hers.

After their lunch in Notting Hill, they walked towards The Moroccan Garden. From there they got down to the Thames River to stroll along the river. Robert picked a small pub for dinner, they stayed there the rest of the evening.

Back at home, Robert had shown her how much he loved and missed her. That night at the Folly had been wonderful, but this topped everything. She could definitely say that there was not a Robert-free zone anymore. She chuckled and tried to find a comfortable pose. She managed to free her leg. Robert stirred, his arm moved and Cora could free her hair. She curled up against Robert’s chest, his arm wrapped around her and pulled her close. She inhaled deeply and tried to get some more sleep. Feeling Robert’s heartbeat had a calming effect on Cora.

When she woke up again, her nose filled with the smell of breakfast. The spot next to her was empty. Cora stretched and decided to stay in bed for a minute longer. She wanted to immerse herself in this wonderful feeling. She knew it would be temporary. Real life was lurking around the corner, their blissful time together without anybody knowing they were back together would probably end soon. But for now, she was enjoying this time with just Robert and her.

“You are awake.” Robert’s voice sounded.

Cora gave him a mesmerising smile. “And you made breakfast.”

Robert chuckled and crawled on the bed, leaning over Cora, his face inches from hers. “I hope you are hungry.”

Cora’s hands moved over Robert’s upper legs, she felt his muscles and it aroused her. “Hungry for you?” She said with a low voice.

Robert kissed her neck. “I am not on the menu this morning.”

Cora leaned back to give him more access, her hand moved to his buttocks and while she slowly moved one hand to his manhood, she whispered. “Are you sure?” Before he could answer she grabbed him.

Robert shuddered.

Cora started to unbutton her shirt and said seductively. “Because I am.” She arched her back so her breasts were visible.

Robert gave in and dived into her. He kissed every inch of her before, he descended towards her core.

His fingers had started stroking her when a voice made him stop.

“Cora? Cora where are you, do not say you are still in bed.”

Right before the bedroom door opened, Robert rolled off Cora. They both looked at the door in shock.

The woman in the doorway had the same shock on her face. Quickly Rosamund closed the door and they heard her repeatedly say: “I am sorry.”

“Well, I think we have to write a new menu,” Cora said jokingly and Robert burst out laughing. She kissed his cheek and softly stroked his cheek. “I am back.”

Robert took her face in his hands. “Thank you. I do not know how I can thank you.”

Cora was getting up and wrapped a night robe around her. “This morning was a good start.”

+++

Rosamund sat in the kitchen, waiting for Cora. She was vexed, that she had disturbed them. They needed anything but her disturbing them. She looked at the doorway when she heard steps coming down. Cora appeared in her night robe.

“I feel stupid for interrupting you.” Rosamund said.

Cora shook her head, she filled a cup with hot water to make tea. She looked at the set table and chuckled, Robert had made a lot of effort she thought. “Do not be sorry, you could not have known Robert was here. Until yesterday afternoon I did not know he would be.”

“Does this mean?” According to the blissful look on Cora’s face, she knew the answer already.

Cora nodded and she felt her cheeks turning red. “Yes. I am going back.”

Now Rosamund face lightened up. “So we will have a wedding in the near future?”

Cora chuckled. “Maybe, I do not know. He has not asked and we should talk about that first.”

“What should we talk about?” Robert entered the kitchen and wrapped his arms around Cora’s waist and pulled her closer.

Robert’s warm hands on her belly made her weak inside. She placed her hands on top of Robert’s and brushed her thumb over the back of his hand. “The future, how we will go on from here.” She leaned against him.

Robert nestled his nose in Cora’s loose curls. “I cannot wait to tell our girls the good news.”

Cora let out a sigh of relief. Finally they had something good to tell the girls. “Mama will be delighted too, I guess.”

“Mrs. Hughes will also be happy to see you back at Downton. I reckon.” Rosamund added. “One person less to worry about.”

“Less?” Robert said surprised. “I am bringing Cora back, so there will be a person more.”

Both Rosamund and Cora started laughing. Robert did not understand what was happening. Why were they laughing, he had not said anything funny.

Cora turned around in his arms so she was facing him. “Darling, she does not have to worry about you anymore.”

Robert smiled a sheepish smile. “Oh. Right.” He kissed Cora’s tempting lips.

“Enough fooling around. Eat your breakfast and go get dressed.” Rosamund said. “I came to pick up Cora.”

“Did we have an appointment?” Cora quickly turned back around and softly pushed Robert’s hands off her. She felt Robert’s disappointment.

“We did not, but I want to show you something.”

“Can I come?” Robert asked. He did not want to let go of Cora already. He had hoped to spend this day together, before letting the world know they were back together.

“No, it is something I want to show Cora first.”

“So I will also get to see it at some point?” Robert said hopeful.

“Probably yes. Please, Cora. Can you hurry a little bit? We have about 1 hour left.”

Cora gave Robert an apologetic look and ate some toast. She felt guilty that she did not eat more of his breakfast. Although, it probably was already cold, after their interlude this morning

 

The truth always comes out, chapter 47

“Edith. Thank you for coming.” Violet said while sitting back down.

Edith took a seat and looked at her grandmother.

“You must be wondering why I asked you to come over.”

Edith was not going to tell her grandmother, but she did not care why she was here. She would never understand her grandmother’s motives for anything. She had learned over time, to just follow and not to ask to many questions.

“I know that losing Michael must have been hard on you. But I understood that he left you the magazine?”

Now Edith raised her eyebrows, how did her grandmother find out about that? “He indeed did.”

“What are your plans with it?”

“I thought about selling, I do not know how to run a magazine.”

Violet scoffed. “Nonsense. You know perfectly well how to do that. Michael left you the company because he believed in you. When will you start believing in yourself?”

Edith shrugged her shoulders.

“I am serious. You are a talented writer, you will know how to make the magazine to a success, even bigger than it is already. Do not give up.”

+++

The doorbell rang, Cora rushed towards the front door, she was not expecting anybody. When she opened the door, she felt ashamed for the way she was dressed. She was wearing a baggy jeans, with a baggy sweater that she found at a charity shop. It was extremely comfortable, but not very stylish. “I did not know you would be in London?” She looked into the face of Robert, who was looking at her with a sheepish look in his eyes. She felt her stomach flutter.

“I did not know I was going to be in London myself. But I figured we needed to talk, and Downton is not the place to do that.”

Cora suspected that Rosamund had made him come to London, but she would keep quiet about that. Robert looked a little bit lost. She did not want to invite him in, but she could not leave him at the door. It was weird to have him here, she had declared this house as a Robert free zone. Things were changing, but this was her house and her space. And it was strange to have him inside.

“I was hoping you wanted to go to a place to grab something for lunch.” He stopped and furrowed his eyebrows. “But maybe you already made plans.” He sighed. “I am sorry, I should have announced my visit. Never mind me. Enjoy your afternoon.” He turned around and started walking away.

“Please wait.” Cora grabbed his arm. “Come in, I will change into something decent and then we can go to Beach Blanket Babylon for lunch.”

“Are you sure?” Robert was aware he caught Cora of guard and he did not want to force her to go out with him. Although he wanted to wrap her in his arms and overload her with kisses. He refrained himself from it.

“Just wait in the living, I will be ready in a couple of minutes. Can you call Beach Blanket Babylon if they have a table?” Cora showed him the living and run upstairs to get decent clothes.

Robert had to force his mouth to close again when Cora appeared in the living. She was wearing a dark blue jumpsuit. It had wide legs, which fell to the floor, the surplice neckline showed her collarbones in their majestic form. The long sleeves made the whole fit even more majestic. The way the belt highlighted her small waist made him blush. “I agree, this is a lot better. You look stunning.”

“Thank you, are you ready to go?”

+++

“How do you see the future?” Cora asked, when the waiter cleared their table. They had an exquisite lunch and were now waiting for a cup of tea.

“You mean between us?”

Cora sighed. “No, the future of our girls.” When she saw Robert’s surprised look she continued. “Silly, of course I mean us.”

Robert looked at his hands. “I am not sure. I do not know where we should start. I would love to have you back at Downton, it does not feel right without you.” He looked up and saw the soft look in Cora’s eyes. He knew she was agreeing with him. It was a huge relief to see this in her eyes. He was so scared to be rejected by her once again. He moved his hands towards Cora’s, and she opened her hand to let him take it.

“I think it is the only start that is possible, me moving back in with you.”

This surprised Robert, did Cora really say that. He looked at her angelic face with a puzzled look.

Cora chuckled and squeezed his hand. “I know, I am as surprised by these words as you are. But what is the point of me staying in London, if we both agree we want to try again.”

“Do you want to try again?” Robert felt a lump in his throat, and he had to swallow so he would not start crying.

Cora saw Robert’s struggle. She scooted closer to him; they were sitting in one of the plush velvet booths. She leaned against his shoulder and rested her hand on his leg. “I will never forget why I wanted this divorce and why I moved to London, but I cannot imagine living the rest of my life without you.”

“Can you forgive me for what I have done?”

“Forgive yes, forget no. But Robert.” Cora turned her face towards him. “We both made mistakes.” She felt Robert’s arm wrap around her shoulder, and she rested her head on his shoulder. “That night of Mary’s wedding showed me how much I need you.”

Robert playfully squeezed Cora’s upper arm. “You only missed that part of me?” Placing a kiss on her temple.

Cora had kicked of her loafers and pulled up her legs on the sofa. With played annoyance she lifted her head. “I missed everything about you, but the way you can satisfy my needs is a big part of it.” She laid her head back.

“So, you are only coming back for the coitus.”

Cora laughed out loud. “Robert!”

“To be very clear, if it is only that……”

He could not finish his sentence, Cora turned herself fully towards him and pressed her lips on his. She stroked with her hand over his cheek. “You know it is more than that.” She saw the cheeky smile playing around his mouth and she knew he was bantering.

“I love you, my Cora. I love you.” Robert said tender.

“You are the love of my life and always will be.”

Robert pressed her closer against him. “We should go home.”