But Papa! Why? Chapter 42

Robert had made an appointment with the contractor to start the process of the rebuilding the insides of the Abbey. He had said, it was a good distraction from the Simon business. Simon had written several emails to Harold and although Harold had told him, they were not going to work together, and that Cora was not interested in going out on a date with him. Simon kept insisting to meet Cora again. Cora was convinced he had known that she was working for ‘Crawley Advertisements’ and the fact he did not give up on contacting her, convinced her even more.

Cora’s hand slid into Robert’s, while they stood in front of the Abbey. With a deep sigh, she said. “The building keeps astonishing me.”

Robert squeezed her hand. “Even after all these years of seeing the building, I still feel the same.”

“Once Harold wrote that Mama agreed with the early rebuilding, I could not feel happier.”

Robert stepped back from her, still holding her hand, but he gave her a puzzled look. “Rebuilding Downton makes you happier than the prospect of marrying me?”

Cora saw the playful twinkling in his eyes, she decided to play with him. “Maybe it does, maybe it doesn’t.” Cora batted her eyelashes, something she knew made Robert weak inside. And what she had hoped for happened. Robert’s cheeks coloured slightly, and he let out a low rumble.

He pulled her close and pressed his lips on hers. “You are teasing me.” He growled and intensified the kiss.

Cora’s wiggled her hand out of Robert’s and moved it up to his neck. “I do love you so much.” She said, while kissing him again.

A low ‘Ahumm’ made them almost jump. A tall man with dark big eyebrows was standing in front of the big doors and was looking at them.

“Carson, I am sorry for that.” Robert apologised to the man. I do not think you have met Miss. Levinson, did you?”

“That is alright Milord. I will get used to it; it is a long time ago a young couple that was in love lived here. And now we have not yet met.” The man, apparently called Carson, extended his hand towards Cora.

Cora felt her cheeks blush. “Lovely to meet you, Mr. Carson. I am Cora. Cora Levinson.”

“Soon to be Mrs. Crawley.” Robert laid his hand on Cora’s lower back.

“Milady” Carson said when Cora took his hand. “Welcome to Downton. It is exciting to finally see this building being rebuilt. Back to its old glory.” Cora saw a glow in his eyes, that she also saw in Robert’s eyes when they talked about Downton.

“Carson is the Butler of the house.” Robert explained.

Butler? Cora thought. For what, nobody has lived her for years. What was he doing? She must have looked puzzled because Robert explained.

“He did not work in the house since the fire. Of course not, because it was not safe to be in the house.” His eyes got sad for a short second. “But we have always found things for you to do, haven’t we?” He now looked at Carson with a childlike expression on his face. “Carson has always been our butler, at least as long as I can remember.

“I welcomed the contractor and offered tea. He is waiting in the Secretary’s room.”

Robert looked at Cora and laughed when he saw her face. “The backside of the house is perfectly intact. The fire raged mostly in the frontside of the building. It is still a mystery to me that the library survived. The Secretary’s room is in the back, and we can enter via the backdoor. The last time we were up here, I meant to show you more, then just that look through the front windows.”

“I never registered that we been to the back at all. All I remember is seeing you fall of that horse and disappear.” She took his hand again. “So let us just walk calmly to the back this time.”

Robert checked if Carson was looking, he was, as he should, he was going to let Robert and Cora walk in front of him. He ignored his watchful eye and took Cora’s face in his hands. “I will not do any stupid things this time.” He kissed her tenderly.

Cora felt her cheeks colour, she had seen that Carson was looking at them and she did not feel comfortable to kiss Robert in front of his butler.

+++

“These are the plans we have for now.” Jacob slid the papers over the table towards Robert and Cora.

Jacob was their contractor, who was responsible for the rebuilding. Cora looked at it and was shocked by how modern the images looked. She did not know how to respond; she was not sure what Robert had told them. They had not even talked about those details themselves, and she was not expecting to see sketches already. From the corner of her eye, she looked at Robert and she saw that he was searching for the right words to voice what he was thinking. She suppressed a chuckle; he was so predictable.

“Thank you for making sketches already. It is something I was not expecting to see today.”

“I thought that it would help and speed up the process.” Jacob interrupted.

Cora saw that Robert was clenching his jaw.

“As I said.” He continued. “I was not expecting to see sketches today already. We did not talk about any details yet, and I appreciate how much work you have already spend on these.” He quickly looked at Cora, seeking her confirmation. She nodded, that he could go on. “We want the building back in his old glory.”

“That would be such a shame.” Jacob countered. “What you need is a new and modern look. This fire was the perfect timing to modernise the house. Who wants to be surrounded by all that old wood and stone?”

Cora moved her hand under the table towards Robert’s leg, she saw a twitched under his eye and she knew he was getting mad. Softly she squeezed his knee. When she saw him take a deep breath, she was relieved he tried calming himself down.

“I was in the understanding, that a contractor worked for his clients. Am I wrong in that understanding?”

Jacob smiled. “Of course not, I indeed work for you. But I also know the market and I know what will sell and what will not.”

Now it was Cora who spoke. “To be very clear. This meeting is to discuss our wishes, what WE.” She emphasised the word ‘we’. “Want, and not what you think will be best for the market. This house will not be up for sale, and I can guarantee you that if the day comes, we are going to sell, it will sell better if it is in the original style and not some modern hideous coffin.”

Robert was drinking his tea when Cora said that last part and he started to choke. Cora padded his back, but she did not take her eyes off Jacob.

“I think this meeting is over. Thank you for your time and idea’s. We will be in contact.” She rose from the chair and extended her hand towards Jacob.

Robert followed her example. “Indeed, thank you, but Miss. Levinson is correct. This meeting is over, and do not expect us to call you again. We will find somebody else to complete this job for us.”

Carson appeared and let Jacob out of the building. As soon as the door closed behind Carson, Robert and Cora started laughing.

Robert pulled Cora in his arms. “What went in to you?” He said smiling. “I have never seen you this fierce before.”

“A young chap as Jacob will not ruin this beautiful building. Never in my life, and the fact he wanted to modernise the building tells me, that he does not know how this market works. It would be mental if we would modernise this building. The only modernising we will do is making sure we will have proper heating.”

“You are always cold; no heating will help with that.”

“You will need to make sure I will not get cold here.”

Robert kissed Cora’s neck. “You are sexy when you talk like that.”

Cora rolled her head back, so Robert had better access. “You are so happy by just being in this house, that I will let nobody ruin that for you.” She felt his hands roaming over her backside and she could only hope Carson would not step back inside this room. Because she was not sure how long she would be standing here in her blouse. Robert’s fingers were pulling at her blouse already. Gently she put her hands on Robert’s upper arms, she felt heat shoot through her body when she felt his muscles. “We cannot do this here. Carson will be back soon.”

“All the more exciting.” Robert growled, but he cowered as soon as he heard footsteps coming closer. He quickly pulled Cora’s blouse straight, kissed her on the lips and stepped back. Right before Carson came back in.

Cora knew he could see on her face, what just happened, but she tried to keep a straight face.

“Thank you, Milord, for standing up for Downton. I know you will be an amazing Lord one day.”

Robert nodded, and Cora saw he was proud to hear this from Carson’s mouth.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 41

Cora stared at the building. Mr Bricker’s company was located in the Victoria House. It was an impressive building. Even though she knew he only rented an office space in this building she was still impressed. She felt nervous, what if he knew who she was? Her name had been under their articles. She shook her shoulders, thinking that would make her even more nervous and it would show. She straightened her back and looked down at her clothes. This morning, she had been indecisive about what to wear. A long dress, a short dress? A skirt with a blouse? She ended up in a blue pantsuit with a waistcoat. Her curls were tamed into a low bun, Robert had messed it up a bit once she wanted to leave the house. He had kissed her passionately and his hands started roaming through her hair and had tangled it up. She loved how affectioned Robert was. She always said her love language was physical touch and it was clearly also Robert’s. She took in a deep breath and crossed the street and entered the building.

“I have an appointment with “Advertisements with Mr. Bricker’ Where do I need to go?” She asked the man behind the reception.

“Third floor and then follow the signs.”

“Thank you very much.”

+++

“Do you want a cup of tea?” Mr. Bricker offered Cora a chair.

She sat down and smiled up. “Thank you, that would be nice.”

“Miss MacLaine was it not?”

Cora had used her mother’s name, instead of her own. “You are correct, Mr. Bricker.”

“You can call me Simon.” He said.

“Simon, nice to meet you. I am Cora.” She took the cup Simon handed her.

“Well, what can I help you with?” Simon sat down at his desk and pulled a notepad closer.

“As I wrote, the company I work for, ‘Levinson and Son’, is looking to place some advertisements in England and we could use some help with that.”

“They are an advertisement company themselves. Why would they need my help?”

“We know the American market, but we realise that the British market is different. And we like a good start.”

Simon frowned. “I do not see how you came to the conclusion that I would place advertisements for a competitor?”

This was something Patrick had prepared her for because that was what he would answer if he got that question. “I understand, and that is why we are interested to work together.” Cora answered.

Now Simon leaned forward, his eyes went over Cora’s body. “Why my company? You must know that I am not the biggest company.”

“What do you mean?” Cora tried to sound as innocent as she could. She hated the way he looked at her, it gave her chills. Not the chills that run over her back when Robert run his hands over her skin.

“There is another company, based in this same city that is bigger than we are at the moment. They are called ‘Crawley Advertisements’. Did you hear about them?”

“I think I did.” Cora tried hard to keep a straight face. “But I am not aware why the choices that are made were made.”

“Well, we will be the biggest company soon. Lot of business are coming to us, instead of ‘Crawley Advertisements. The company you work for made the right decision to choose my company.”

“What is your secret Simon?” Cora asked.

“My secret? I am not sure if it is a secret when you simply offer lower prices. Is it?”

“Probably not, but when you ask less, you can offer less can you not?”

“That is for us to know.” Mr Bricker winked and leaned even further forward. “The clients do not know that. They will get their advertisement and are happy.”

“If it is that simple, everybody could start an advertising business. But you need to deliver good work to keep your clients with you.”

Simon did not answer, he squinted his eyes. “Is ‘Levinson and Son’ going to talk with ‘Crawley Advertisements’?

“I cannot answer you that.” Cora said. She found it hard to keep her face composed. She tried her hardest to give him answers that would not raise question later. What if he ever found out she worked for ‘Crawley Advertisements’. What would he do, how would he react?

“From the moment you stepped inside my office, I have a feeling I have seen you before. Is that possible Miss MacLaine?”

Cora felt her cheeks colour and she looked to the floor; he had called her by her last name again. “I live in London for some time now, maybe we have been to the same events?”

“You are a very good-looking woman, a woman I would never forget when I saw her. And I know I have seen you before, I just cannot place the setting.”

“I am very sorry, but I have not seen you before. So, we did not meet on the day you think you saw me.” Cora needed to leave this office. She did not like the tension that was suddenly present. Did Simon suspect something, he had suddenly called her Miss MacLaine again instead of Cora. “Maybe you should schedule a video call with Mr. Levinson about this possible cooperation? I am very sorry, I do not think I will be able to answer the question you have, and I am wasting your time.”

Simon suddenly put his hand on Cora’s that was resting on the table. “We could meet up, outside of this work setting. I would love to know you better and it would help you company immensely.”

This scared Cora, she had not anticipated that he would make a move on her. “Why would it help ‘Levinson and Son’ when we went out? You said so yourself, it would be out of the work setting.”

“Dating the boss of the company you want to work with, gives you a great advantage.” A dark shadow flashed in Simon’s eyes.

Cora got scared now, Simon was still holding her hand in his. “Can you please let go of my hand?” She asked politely.

Simon did not respond, he stared at her. “I have seen you; I just know.”

“Please let go of my hand. I will think about your offer, but please let go of my hand.” Simon’s phone rang, it was just the distraction that Cora needed to pull her hand back. She quickly stood and said: “Thank you for your time. You will hear from ‘Levinson and Son’. Goodbye.”

Simon also stood. “We will meet again, that I am sure off.”

The dark gaze in Simon’s eyes scared Cora and she rushed out of his office. It took her the entire trip with the subway to get rid of the nasty feeling he gave her.

+++

“You are back.” Patrick greeted her. In his office were also Robert and Rosamund waiting for her. It was Rosamund who walked over the moment she stepped inside the office.

“What happened?” Rosamund put her hand on Cora’s arm.

Cora looked up at her and smiled. “Mr. Bricker told me how they are getting all the clients. But please let me never go back to that office or meet up with him ever again.”

“What did he do?” Robert’s voice sounded. “Did he touch you?” He took two big steps and stood next to Rosamund.

“He did not. He just touched my hand. But he asked me out.” Cora could not look at Robert, she knew he would get very angry, and she did not want to see the disappointment in his face.

“How dare he!” Robert hissed. “Father, Cora is never going back to that man. I do not care how much of a threat his company will be. Cora is not going to be involved anymore.”

“He only touched my hand, Robert.” Cora said timid. She knew his reaction was valid because Simon did ask her out. But Simon did not know she was engaged to be married, or did he? What if he had known who she was from the start? “Do you think he knew who I was? He did say he thought he had seen me before. Did we make a mistake, by using my father’s company?”

“Harold is more than capable to repel this Mr. Bricker if he keeps pushing. Just leave that to your brother. Did Mr. Bricker tell you anything about their tactics? How is he getting all the clients?” Rosamund asked, her hand was still on Cora’s arm.

“He simply said that he asks lower prices and that is the reason people are coming to him. But when I said that with less money you can offer less. He gave me a cryptic answer, that it was for him to know. Did we ever see an advertisement of his?”

“The ones I have found, where very basic and did not get out very far.” Patrick answered. “It seems like he is not really a treat to our company. His downfall is already upon him.”

“Cora? What are you not telling me?”

Now Cora looked up to Robert. “I am a bit scared of what he would do, once he finds out I work for you. He did look at me with a weird look in his eyes, and his gaze was very dark. He gave me the gibbers.”

Robert’s index finger brushed over Cora’s cheek. “Even if he knows you work for us. He would not do anything, maybe he will try to sue our company.”

“Sue?” Cora asked with widespread eyes.

“He could try, because we tried to get company information out of him. But it would never stand, because everything he told, he told out of free will. Do not be scared my dear. You did splendid and we know exactly what we needed to know. He is not a real treat, and we will keep doing what we are doing.” Robert took Cora’s hand in his and softly squeezed her hand. “Papa, is it alright if Cora and I call it a day?”

“Of course, son.” Patrick answered and then he looked at Cora. “You did amazing. As Robert already said, we know exactly what we needed to know. And do not worry about that Mr. Bricker, I will deal with him. If he ever tries to bother you, he has to get passed me first.”

“Thank you. I really appreciate that.”

“You gave us some valuable information today. Keep that in mind, you did splendid.”

But Papa! Why? Chapter 40

Warm and soft fingers were stroking over her lower back. Slowly up and down. She felt his hand now sliding over her back in between her shoulder blades. Pulling her closer to his chest, Cora did not want to wake up. She wanted to soak in this feeling. Robert’s gentle touches on her bare skin. She softly moaned when Robert pressed a kiss on the top of her head and rested her hands against Robert’s chest.

“Good morning my love.”

“Good morning.” Cora said with a sleepy, raspy voice. She pressed a kiss on Robert’s chest. She wiggled her foot in between Robert’s calves, he was not wearing his pyjama. As she herself was also not wearing anything. When they came home from the wedding, Robert could not wait to help her out her jumpsuit. The night had been very romantic and they fallen asleep in each other arms. Robert covered them with the duvet, but they did not want to leave each other arms to put on their pyjama’s. Al they needed was each others body warmth.

Cora moved her hand over Robert’s side to his back so she could press herself even closer against him. “I loved last night.” She said with her face pressed against his chest.

Robert’s fingers massaged her scalp. “I did too.”

“Next year we will have our magical day.”

“Imagine the night after that day.” Robert kissed Cora’s collarbone. “You did look amazing yesterday, I cannot say that enough.”

Cora smiled. “Thank you, you looked pretty handsome yourself too.” Cora paused and pushed herself back a bit. “Robert?” She asked.

Robert’s hand went back to her back. “What is it?”

“Do you think we can ask my Mama for the money already?”

“What money do you mean, sweetheart?”

“The money to rebuild Downton. If we start now, maybe we can use the house for our wedding day?”

Robert followed Cora’s curves with his fingers, down to her bottom. “Do you really want that? Or are you suggesting this because you think I would want that?”

Cora pushed herself up so she could look into Robert’s eyes. She pressed a soft kiss on his nose. “I would love to get married to you in our future home.”

Robert stopped his caressing of her skin. “Do you mean that? Would you want to move to Downton?”

“I thought, that we were rebuilding the house to be liveable again. And we need a place for us. My apartment is not big enough for a family and yours……. well you know what I think about yours.”

“You think there is to much noise around my building and you want more peace and quiet. But going up to Downton is the other end of the spectrum. There is only peace and quiet there.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 39

“You look stunning, sweetheart.” Cora pulled the lapels of Robert’s costume straight; she then fixed his emerald, green tie.

“Why are you not dressed yet?” Robert stroke over Cora’s nightrobe.

“Rosamund asked me to keep it a surprise from you.” She got on her tiptoes and kissed his waiting lips. “You will need to be a little bit more patient.”

Robert’s hand rested on Cora’s lower back. “You and my sister are being mean, but I guess I will have to get used to that.”

“It would make your life easier, if you did. Now skedaddle, Marmaduke is waiting for you. And I need to go to Rosamund. I will see you at the photo location.”

“Can you remind me why they are going to take the photos before the ceremony?” Robert kept his hand on Cora’s back, obviously reluctant to let go of her.

Soaking up the warmth of his hand, Cora leaned in on him. “Marmaduke will have much more energy at the beginning of the day. That way, the pictures will be perfect.”

“But they will not be wearing a wedding ring yet.”

“They will, and then after the pictures are taken, they take them off for the ceremony.”

Robert bent down and kissed Cora’s neck. “You have thought about everything my dear.”

“This was not my idea, but Baxter’s. Rosamund loved it and also Marmaduke agreed it would be the best option. The credits do not belong to me. Can you please hurry and leave, I need to get ready.”

“I could just stay and watch you getting ready.”

“No, you cannot.” Resolute Cora stepped back, forcing Robert’s hand to leave her backside.

+++

“Are you nervous?” Cora pinned up the last curl on Rosamund’s head. She had made a half up do, some strings were lost, and framing her face. Rosamund had applied a light shading of her make-up, just enough to lighten up her face, but not enough to see she was wearing makeup.

“Not really. Is that weird?” Rosamund turned around to look at Cora.

Cora rested her hands on Rosamund’s shoulders. “I do not think that it is weird. Although I can guarantee you that I will be nervous on my wedding day.”

“If I was marrying Robert, I would be nervous too.”

Both woman burst out laughing until there was a knock on the door. “Enter.” Cora managed to get out.

Baxter stepped in. “I am sorry to interrupt the fun, but we should go.”

Cora stepped back to look at Rosamund. Baxter stood next to her, and they both nodded in agreement. “You look marvellous.” Baxter said staring at her. Rosamund was standing in her strapless jumpsuit. Her red curls gave her an angelic look.

“Thank you sweet. You both look amazing too. Baxter, thank you for wearing a pantsuit too.”

“I have to admit, I was relieved when you came with that request. It is a lot easier to move around wearing pants.”

“Marmaduke can count himself lucky that he will be marrying you.” Cora said, smiling at her.

“I can say the same thing about you.” Rosamund looked at Cora’s emerald, green jumpsuit. It had one shoulder and Cora was beaming in it. “Robert will faint when you walk into the venue.”

“I will have a hard time keeping his hands of me, I am afraid.” Cora quickly closed her mouth and with bright red cheeks she looked at Baxter. “I am sorry, that was too much information.”

“I have seen how his Lordships looks at you and a I can only be jealous of that.”

Cora cringed when she said his Lordship, but she tried to not show it.

“Did you ever look at how Molesley looks at you?” Rosamund chipped in. “Can you please call him Mr. Crawley or just Robert. I do not like the use of our titles, especially not today.”

“I am sorry, it is a habit I guess.”

“Let us go, Marmaduke will think you are abandoning him if we stay here any longer.” Cora hooked her arm in Rosamund’s.

+++

They arrived at Hampstead Heath; the photos would be taken around The Pergola. A beautiful hidden area in Golders Hill Park. The wisteria was growing everywhere and would offer a perfect background for wedding pictures.

Cora let Rosamund walk in front of her. She could see Marmaduke and Robert waiting and her heart jumped by all the excitement. Marmaduke did look good today and it made her happy.

“My darling.” Marmaduke uttered when he saw Rosamund. He got up from the chair he was sitting in and spread his arms, once Rosamund was close enough, he took her hands and twirled her around. “I was expecting a dress, but you made an excellent choice with this.” He paused and said in a whisper. “What do you call this?” He took the fabric between his fingers.

“A jumpsuit my dear. Thank you, you look mesmerising too. How are you feeling?”

“You can ask me this question once today and then after we will go and enjoy today without the worries of tomorrow.”

Cora could see Baxter taking shots from different angles, without being noticed by the pair. She knew she had made the right decision to ask Baxter, she had seen her work on several occasions and every time she amazed her how she did it. She moved like a shadow. She felt hands on her hips and a low voice said.

“You did an outstanding job with her hair, sweetheart.”

Cora turned her face so she could see Robert, who was standing behind her. “Thank you. She does look amazing, does she not?”

“So do you.” Robert twirled her around, like Marmaduke did with Rosamund. “No dress, even though it almost looks like a dress. I love how well I can see your figure.” His hungry fingers moved over her hips and thighs.

Softly Cora put her hand on his hand. “Tonight, you can play with this jumpsuit, but for now our attention should lay with Marmaduke and Rosamund.”

+++

“You may kiss the bride.” Molesley said and all the guest cheered. Cora noticed that even Violet was clapping. The moment Rosamund stepped into the aisle, Violet had gasped, but a quick gesture from Patrick made her swallow her reaction. Cora even saw her say that Rosamund looked beautiful when she walked past. Cora found it strange that Rosamund did not want her mother with her while preparing for today. But that was how their relationship was and she had gladly stepped in to help Rosamund with getting dressed. She felt Robert putting his arm around her waist. She looked up at him and whispered. “You did good by arranging this.”

Once everybody had congratulated the newlyweds, the buffet was opened. The band started playing and people went on the dance floor quickly after they finished the food.

Robert took Cora’s hand and guided her towards a free spot. “Can you Walz?”

Cora smiled, it was one of the things her mother had insisted on she would learn from a young age, ballroom dancing. With confidence she took his hand and got in position. This erupted a big smile on Robert’s face. “That means yes.”

But Papa! Why? Chapter 38

“Mama!” Robert said with a very stern voice. “Can you please let Cora talk?”

Cora gave him a soft smile and looked back at Violet and Patrick, her future parents-in-law. Rosamund was planning on telling them the news about Marmaduke and the wedding today. But Marmaduke got a nasty cough and they needed to go to the hospital. She had asked Cora and Robert to tell them about the wedding. Cora had protested because they needed to tell this themselves. But at the same time, she understood that time was of the essence.

“Robert maybe you should tell them,” Cora said in a soft voice.

Robert opened his mouth but Patrick interrupted him. “I think that my darling wife will need to learn how to listen to you if she ever wants to see Downton being rebuilt.”

“But this is not about Downton.” Cora said slightly shocked.

“It does not matter love. You are part of our family now and your voice needs to be heard too.”

Robert was thankful for his father. It was amazing to see, how hard he and Rosamund were trying to show Cora how much she was loved and that she was welcome.

“Rosamund and Marmaduke asked us,” She looked briefly at Robert. “To tell you about their wedding. Some things have changed.” Cora paused again, Robert nodded that she should go on. “They have changed the date.”

“What?” Violet exclaimed. “And why are they not here to tell us that themselves?”

“Mama,” Robert said calmly. “Rosamund asked us to tell you because she had to go to the hospital with Marmaduke.”

“She could have come after that visit.”

“No, Mama. She could not have. The thing is. Marmaduke is ill, they found cancer and it has spread. The doctors say he will only have a couple more months to live. Cora and I helped them to move the wedding date forward. There is too much risk Marmaduke will be too ill in October, or worse. We managed to get the SkyGarden next Friday. We have an officiant, a wedding photographer, the cake will be ready on that day and we also found a florist who will decorate the place.”

Cora loved how much details Robert remembered. He was truly investigated in this wedding. She could not wait to start and plan their own day together.

“My darling girl,” Patrick said softly. “Oh, my darling girl. How is she holding up?”

Robert turned towards his father. “You know Rosamund. She is pretending to be strong.”

“She is my daughter. She does not pretend, we are strong woman.”

“There is nothing wrong in showing your emotions when you are going to lose the man you love when you are only in your twenties,” Patrick said. “How is Marmaduke at the moment?”

“Rosamund took him to the hospital because he had developed a nasty cough. I do not know what is the cause of that yet. Rosamund has not called or texted yet.” Cora answered. “But overall he is doing amazingly well.”

“You see, there is no reason to change the wedding date.” Violet sneered.

“He is doing well at the moment, the fact they are in hospital at the moment, should tell you enough about how ill he is and why they want to get married right away.”

“Darling.” Patrick rested his hand on Violet’s arm. A gesture Cora saw him rarely do. “I am asking you to support them in this choice, but most of all support them in this hour of need. They need us more than ever.” He looked at Cora. “What can we do to make that day their special day?”

“I have some ideas.” Cora said.

+++

Robert scooted next to Cora in bed. They went back to her apartment, tomorrow they would not go into the office and Robert had started to like the calm that was surrounding her apartment building. Cora put her book down and slid further under the covers.

“How was Marmaduke?” She asked. After dinner, Robert went to Rosamund’s place to see if they needed anything.

“He has an upcoming pneumonia, but the doctor said they were early and could start treatment right away. The chances that it will develop further are small. So he was allowed to go home. Rosamund needs to pay close attention if his breathing gets laboured they need to go to A&E immediately. But they were glad to be home together.”

Cora put her hand on Robert’s arm. “I can only imagine how they must feel.”

They lay a couple of minutes in silence next to each other, when Cora suddenly said. “I forgot to thank your father for sticking up for me.”

Robert brushed with his finger over Cora’s cheekbone. “You do not have to. As I said before, my father likes you and is happy to have you in our family.”

“I cannot express how grateful I am for him. I am not sure if I would have been brave enough to endure your mother without his support.”

Robert moved a bit closer. “Is my support not enough?”

Cora smiled. “Of course it is. But it would have been so incredibly hard without your father’s support. Your love alone would maybe not have been enough.”

Robert kissed the bridge of Cora’s nose. “I think, I can understand that. Especially since your own family is so far away.”

“My father would have loved having you as his son-in-law.”

“And your mother?”

“My mother likes you. Simply because you have an English title, Milord.” She said jokingly.

Robert moved his hand over Cora’s shoulder and arm, down to her abdomen. “We should start thinking about making sure that title will continue.”

“Should we not wait with that for after the wedding?”

“Cora? We did not have protected sex, how are you so sure we did not already start our little family?”

“First, because I am on my period at the moment, there is 100% certain, no baby growing in me. And second, I use the pill, so the chance of becoming pregnant is very small at the moment.”

“You never told me you were using birth control.”

“We did not have a real talk about starting a family. We only said that we both would like it in the future. But that’s it. Maybe I should have told you I was using birth control, but it never crossed my mind. I am sorry.”

Robert kissed her forehead. “It is alright. Probably it is better this way”

“I am going to stop soon because they say it can take a while before you get pregnant.”

“What if you do not take a while and get pregnant right away? Then you will have a big belly on our wedding day, or a little one to take care of. We could wait a little longer, we did not talk about a date yet. We should start planning our day.” His hand was resting on her hip.

“What about the 16th of February?”

Roberts’s fingers had started softly massaging her side, but now he stopped. “Why the 16th? What is special about that day?”

Cora brushed her lips over Robert’s. “It was the day that you saved me from that creep in the pub.”

Robert frowned, but then he remembered. “The day I let another guy hit me, to protect you from his dirty hands. I remember. It was the night I started to realise that I liked you. You were more than just a pretty face.”

“Miss Pretty,” Cora said kissing him, her fingers playing with his hair.

“My miss Pretty.” He kissed her back.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 37

“Baxter?” Cora called out when she passed her office. Baxter had gotten her own office since she was not only working with Cora anymore.

Baxter stepped inside. “How can I help, Mrs. Levinson?”

Cora smiled at her; she knew she had trouble not addressing her with Milady. She was not married yet, so there was no reason to call her that and she would also try and talk that out of her head. She stopped saying Milord, towards Robert for a while, but for reasons unknown to Cora, Baxter had started with that again. “I was hoping you were free next Friday.”

“What do you mean, Mrs Levinson?”

“Can you please call me Cora? I do not care that we are back in the office again. When we were working in Dower house you called me Cora and I prefer that.”

“You are my employer and I do not want Mrs. Crawley to have a reason to fire me.”

Cora raised her eyebrows, what did Violet say that Baxter was scared to be fired? “She will not be able to do that, I hired you. I meant to ask if you are free next week on Friday evening?”

“I will need to check my agenda, but as far as I know we do not have any appointments that evening.”

“And you personally? I know it is a Friday evening, it could be that you and Molesley would go and do something fun.”

“Mr. Molesley is busy next Friday. Do you need me for something?”

Cora frowned, Mr Molesley was busy, which gave a slight complication. She would go to Robert directly after this conversation. “I need you to not talk about this with anybody, not even Mr Molesley, but I want you as a photographer that day. The entire day from the morning to the late evening. I cannot tell you exactly why and for what kind of event. We will pay you your normal salary and some extra.”

“Will I know what it is, before the day starts? It is helpful when I know what I can expect during that day.”

Cora nodded. “As soon as everything is arranged, I will tell you what we are doing. But for now, I can only tell you that it is very important, and I am grateful to you for wanting to help me out. Thank you.”

“Your welcome, anything else?”

“No, no, you can go on with your day, thank you.” Cora gave her a radiant smile. When Baxter turned around, Cora took her phone out of her handbag and called Robert.

“Hi dreamy.” His voice sounded.

Cora smiled; Robert had started to call her all sorts of things. He had used honey bunch, angel,
beloved, dear, the apple of my eye, my treasure, dearest, dearie, my true love, sweetie, the light of my life. She did not like all of them, and she had protested the moment he said: my heart’s desire, it gave her the irks.

“Are you in the office?” She asked.

“Maybe. Why?” Robert said in a cheeky tone.

“I need to talk to you, are you in?”

“We are already talking. And I am always in for it” He joked.

Cora smiled, she loved him so much, that it was almost scary. “That last part will have to wait for tonight.” She heard Robert’s disappointed sigh. “Are you alone in your office? Or is John in?”

“He is.”

Cora looked at the clock, it was almost lunch time. “Can we go and grab lunch somewhere? We need to discuss next week.”

She could hear it clicking in Robert’s head and he quickly agreed to go out for lunch.

Cora waited at the elevator for him when Robert took her hand and pulled her towards the stairs. “I need to exercise more, you constantly say.” He poked her side and then pulled her close for a kiss.

Cora let him kiss her, she leaned against him. “I am glad you are listening to what I say.”

Robert quickly walked down the stairs; Cora tried to follow but she was wearing heels. When Robert reached the first floor, he turned around, the moment Cora came close, he put his hands on her hips and lifted her up. With a twirl he put her down next to him, while pressing a kiss on her lips. “You look beautiful today.” He murmured.

Cora brushed her hands over Robert’s chest. “You do not look that bad yourself.” She felt Robert’s hand on her bum pressing her against him. She lifted one leg and wrapped it around him, kissing him full passion. “This way we will never get to the lunchroom.”

“Kissing you, is so much better than being at a lunchroom.” Robert said while he kissed her neck. A door above them opened and Cora lowered her leg quickly, straightening her skirt. She tried to fix her blouse, but it would not go back in the waistband. She was wearing a high raised skirt, and she knew she needed to unzip it to get her blouse neatly back in. Robert saw her struggle. “Let me help you.” He stepped behind her and zipped down the zipper, stroking with his fingers over the fabric of her underwear. Quickly Cora put the blouse straight and Robert pulled the zipper up. The second Robert stepped back next to her; Patrick appeared on the landing above them.

“Why are you two hiding in the stairwell?” He asked with raised eyebrows.

“We are not hiding. We are heading out, but Cora lost her shoe while we were walking down. We will be out for lunch; I will let you know when we are back in.” Robert answered his father.

He gave them an understanding smile.

“He did not believe you.” Cora said embarrassed when they finally left the building.

“Would you believe a story like that?”

Cora chuckled. “I guess not.”

+++

“Baxter agreed to be available next Friday.” Cora said, while she put her fork down. She had ordered a salad for lunch; Robert was enjoying a beefsteak sandwich.

“Did she ask for what event she is needed?” Robert said, while he was still chewing.

“Please do not eat with your mouth full.” Cora reprimanded him. “She did ask, but I did not tell her. But, and this is why I asked you out for lunch…….”

“Ah there was a reason behind this. And here I was hoping you just wanted to be together with you.” Robert said with his napkin in front of his mouth.

“Hiding your mouth still does not excuse you from talking with your mouth full.” Cora reprimanded again. “I always love being together with you, but I think we will have a slight problem for that Friday.”

Robert swallowed. “You sound like my mother, when you scold me like that.” He pouted. “Why would we have a problem? Baxter agreed to take the photos. We have a venue, a wedding officiant, Rosamund has her dress, Marmaduke has his suit. What else do we need?”

“That is the thing, we do not have a wedding officiant.” She ignored his remark about his mother.

“We do not? How come? I asked Molesley and he agreed.”

“But miss Baxter said he is busy next Friday.” She paused, it slowly dawned on her. “Wait, I think I know what is going on. You already asked Molesley and told him that he could not talk about that day with anybody. Like I did with Baxter.” She laughed out loud now. “And here I was worrying we would not have anybody to marry them.”

Robert reached out his hand and covered Cora’s. “I am very happy with this little incident, because now we are here eating out together. We could decide to not go back inside. Do you have a lot to do, or can you escape the office for this afternoon?”

Cora turned her hand, so she could wrap her fingers around Robert’s. “You told your father; you would be in this afternoon?”

“I said to him that I would let him know when I was back in. But if I never go back in, I do not have to tell him.” Robert winked. “We could go to Kew Royal Botanic Gardens and spend the rest of the afternoon together?”

“Sounds as a perfectly well spend afternoon.”

But Papa! Why? Chapter 36

The sun was warm on his skin, but at least there was a slight breeze, that made this summer day the first one that was barrable he thought. He walked back to the office after a lunch meeting. Due to the fact that the meeting was during lunch time, he had not had time for his daily walk. He knew how important it was, and also that Cora would be mad if she learned he did not walk today. He had tried bringing up the argument that they could exercise at night, but she had not fallen for that. Even though they had enough fun times, he could not be more overjoyed with how they fitted together. Every time it was as magical as it had been that first night. Cora was getting used to him entering her, he still took it slow and the moment he saw a frown on her face he stopped and finished with his fingers. He smiled thinking of their times together. When he looked ahead, he saw a familiar figure sitting on a bench.

“Ros.” He exclaimed. “What are you doing outside?”

Rosamund looked up when he came close. “The same thing you are doing, enjoying a little break.”

With a sigh Robert sat down. “Finally, the temperatures are nice enough to be outside again. Ugh I hate this heat.”

“Do you not just hate every season?” Rosamund joked.

“Hmmmm.” Robert thought about that. “No, I do not think so. I just hate all the extremes that we have. Days on end rain, or freezing colds or like now this heat.” He chuckled. “Can I ask you something.” He asked after a short silence.

“Of course, something bothering you?” Rosamund looked at him.

“Not so much me, but Cora.”

“Oh?” Rosamund turned towards Robert.

“Something has happened on the day you and Cora went shopping for your wedding dress.”

“What do you mean?” Rosamund asked.

“Cora is a lot clingier since that day. She touches me as soon as she walks by. Every night in bed, she sleeps against me. Before she would sleep on her own side, but now she wants to be close. As if she is scared of losing me or something. Could this be a late shock to her father’s death? Maybe because you are getting married to Marmaduke and our own wedding plans are coming along? Does she realise her father will not be with her and is that why she needs to be that close to me?”

“Have you asked her about this?”

“She says nothing has changed and that she just loves me very much. But it feels different. Her hugs are more intense and her kisses…… Well, that is maybe a bit too much detail.” Robert felt his cheeks colour.

Rosamund sight and looked at Robert again.

“Can you go and talk to her? You and Cora have a very good bond and I bet she will tell you what is bothering her.” Robert put his hand on Rosamund’s.

“I do not have to go and talk to her, Robert.” Rosamund answered.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, that I am the reason why Cora is acting this way. Or, well, not really me, but Marmaduke.”

Robert fully turned towards Rosamund now and had a frown on his face. “Ros? Dear sis? What do you mean. Why did you say to Cora to feel this way? You know I would never hurt her or leave her.”

“Oh Robert.” Rosamund chocked up and a tear rolled down her cheek.

“Rosamund?” Robert said shocked, he had never seen his sister cry before. He waited for her to gather herself.

“I had hoped we would not have to tell this to all of you before the wedding day. But I guess there is no other way. Marmaduke has cancer.”

Robert did not respond, other than staring at his sister. Did he hear this correctly? Marmaduke was ill. Cora must have found on the day they went dress shopping. All these weeks Cora had walked around with this big secret, without anybody to talk to.

“You let Cora walked around with this secret all this time?” He said in disbelief.

“What? Are you serious right now?” Rosamund said angry.

Robert suddenly realised what a jerk he was. He only thought about his Cora and not that his darling sister had a sick fiancée. He wrapped his arms around her and muttered. “I am sorry.” When she pushed herself back, he said. “How bad is it?”

“It had been better if we had a summer wedding.” Rosamund said cryptic.

“Is it that bad?” He said taking Rosamund’s hand in his.

“Stage four with metastases. We may be lucky that he can still stand when he makes me his wife.”

“Why did you not tell me? Or mama? or Papa?”

“We did not want to ruin the fun of this wedding for you all. Marmaduke is not that much at family gatherings, so you all would not notice how ill he is.”

Robert was still for a couple of minutes, trying to order what was going through his head. He needed to do something. He was going to arrange Marmaduke’s stag do right away. He felt stupid for not following Cora’s advice on that. She had known on that day, when she said to him to start thinking about the stag do. “What can I do for you?” He finally asked.

Rosamund shook her head. “Let me go on like I am doing right now. Please do not tell Mama or Papa. Marmaduke and I will when we feel the time is right. For now, we prefer the quiet time we have at home together. Just the two of us.”

“Why do you not take some time off, to be with him?”

“Mama would ask me why I am taking time off. And I do not want to lie to her. No just let me be, we will be fine. We have to.” Her hand went to her abdomen.

Robert noticed the movement and realised he had seen Cora do that when they talked about having children. “Rosamund.” He said very softly. “Are you by any change pregnant?”

Rosamund’s head shot in his direction, her eyes big from shock. “Why would you say that?”

Robert nodded in the direction of her hand, and she quickly pulled it away from her abdomen. He gently placed his hand on her leg. “Rosamund, you can tell me. I promise I will not tell anybody.”

“We were going to have a boy. I reached my second trimester, and we were about to tell the family. But…… I lost it, I lost the baby. I lost the only thing that would keep Marmaduke close to me.” Rosamund started sobbing uncontrollably.

Robert pulled her close and made sussing sounds. His heart ached for his sister. She was always the strong one, nothing could break her. But now tragedy had hit her, hit her hard. First the baby and Marmaduke would follow soon. According to her words.

“What do the doctors say about Marmaduke’s health in 3 months?”

Rosamund dapped her eyes with the handkerchief Robert gave her. “What do you mean?”

“Does your dress need a lot of altering? If not, why not marry right away. I promise you that we will get the SkyGarden at any time you want.”

“That will cost us a fortune.”

“I do not care about the money; you and Marmaduke need to marry right away and not wait for October. Let me arrange this please? Cora knows all the details about your October wedding, together we will make your perfect day happen as soon as possible.”

“Thank you.” Rosamund rested her head against Robert’s shoulder. “Thank you.”

But Papa! Why? Chapter 35

A gasp escaped Cora’s mouth when Rosamund stepped out of the changing room. She was wearing a creme white strapless jumpsuit. The top was a silky fabric that was draped in layers.

Rosamund turned around. “Do you like it?” She asked.

“You look amazing in it. Marmaduke will be in awe as soon as he sees you.”

“That is what I am aiming for. Mama will be furious when she sees my choice.” Rosamund winked. “Now let’s see how your bridesmaid dress looks on you.”

“Oh Rosamund, this is your day. I wasn’t expecting to go dress shopping for me.” Cora protested.

“Cora I have already some dresses hanging aside for you. Please try them on.”

Cora smiled. “When you are sure. Oke let me see your picks.”

Rosamund had picked four dresses. Cora stepped out in the last one. The first three were not it and Cora did not like this one either. “Maybe, I should follow your example and not go for a dress. I bet they have suits or jumpsuits for bridesmaids too?” She looked at the shop assistant.

“We most definitely have that.” The shop assistant answered.

“Cora, Mama and Papa are going to get a heart attack when we both do not appear in a dress.”

“Isn’t that their problem and not yours?” Cora said carefully.

Rosamund laughed softly. “You are right, but what would Robert say?”

“I am going to sound harsh, but I do not care what he thinks. Your opinion and Marmaduke’s matter on this day. No one else’s.”

“Oh Cora, I love you. Thank you for being my friend.” Rosamund wrapped her arms around Cora and held her tight. “I am glad you are making sure this will be my day.”

“Rosamund, is there something bothering you?” When Rosamund hugged her, she felt it was more intense than usual.

With a deep sigh, Rosamund lowered her eyes and sat down.

“Ros?” Cora now said with worry in her voice. “What is wrong, can you tell me? Do you want to tell me?”

“We would not tell anybody before the wedding.”

“You worry me, Rosamund.”

“Marmaduke is ill.”

Cora slowly sat down on the sofa. “How bad is it?”

Rosamund was wringing her hands in her lap. “Cancer, it is cancer.”

Cora stretched her hand and took Rosamund’s.”When will they start with the treatment?”

Now Rosamund looked up, and Cora saw the desperate look in her eyes.

“Rosamund? Is this why the wedding day is this fast?”

Rosamund nodded her head.

The shop assistant came back with a colourful suit and a jumpsuit for Cora to try on.

+++

“Hey, I was not expecting to find you in my kitchen tonight.” Robert said surprised when he got home and saw Cora in his apartment. He stepped closer and kissed her neck. “I thought you would go out for dinner with Ros. Did she find a dress?”

Cora nodded. “She did.”

“Cora?” Robert put his hand on her shoulders and turned her around. “What is the matter?”

“She asked me not to tell you.” Cora looked at the ground, and quickly looked up into his eyes. Suddenly she wrapped her arms around him and pressed her body close to his. Her hand moved to his hair.

Robert put his hands around her and kept her close as long as she needed. “You do not need to tell me. It is alright.”

When Cora looked up at him again he saw tears in her eyes, one rolled down over her cheek. Softly he brushed it away, gentle he pressed his lips on Cora’s. “Tell me about her dress.”

Cora kissed him back. “That will be a surprise. Did you already plan Marmaduke’s stag do?”

“I am thinking about it, but it is a bit early is it not?”

Cora turned back towards the stove. “Maybe you could arrange it earlier.”

He pressed another kiss in her neck. “I do not know what happened and what is wrong, but I will start planning his party. Is there time for me to take a quick shower? It is so incredibly hot outside and we went on a lunch walk. Papa said it would be good for me.”

Cora leaned her head back and smiled at him. “It is good for you, you still need to make sure you walk enough to get that last bit of healing done. Dinner will be ready in about fifteen minutes.

She sighed when Robert left the kitchen, maybe it was not the best idea to go to Robert’s house after this afternoon. Rosamund asked not to tell the family about Marmaduke’s condition. But she could have known that Robert would see it on her face. She was glad he did not press her to tell him, even though she thought he should know. It was his sister. She was glad at least Rosamund had told her, this way she could be there for her and support her.

She heard the shower running, dinner was ready. She put it on a low heat and quickly got some writing paper out of Robert’s office. Slowly her stuff was also appearing in this house, but not her stationery things. They were still at home. She preferred her apartment over Robert’s. His apartment had an incredible view over the city, but it was always busy outside. Hers was looking over the Thames River and when she went for a stroll it was quiet outside.

The shower was still running, she could finish this before he got out and went back into the kitchen.

‘Dear Harold,

Hope you are doing well. How is Mama doing? And the company?

My life here has changed a lot, as you probably realised. Robert’s proposal was the most romantic think that ever happened to me. But I will not bore you again with that story. I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to marry him. Or at least to het married to him.

Well, that is not why I am writing this letter. I need to talk to somebody about this, and I cannot tell Robert. It has to do with Rosamund his sister and her fiancée Marmaduke. Marmaduke is ill, very ill. They are going to get married this Autumn, the wedding is arranged very quickly. Today I learned that Marmaduke has pancreatic cancer, stage four. It has already spread to his liver and lungs. Rosamund told me this afternoon that he will probably not make it till the end of this year. She asked me not to tell her family, they wanted to prepare for the wedding without everybody worrying about him. I am not sure if that is wise, but I do not have a choice and will need to keep my lips sealed. I do hope you will not tell Mama or anybody about this letter.

I am quite scared of what is going to happen. Rosamund is my friend, and I do not want to see her unhappy. And as long as nobody knows about this, I cannot do anything.

Dear brother, I am sending you a big hug with this letter and a kiss for Mama. I will wrap Robert a bit closer in my arms tonight and thank God he is still with me.

Ps. He told me that he wants children. Oh, Harold, he wants children! Can you imagine me with a little one? Because I cannot wait for Robert to be a proud daddy. Let us hope it is in the stars for us.

Sending you lots of love and kisses,

Your little sis, Cora.

Cora smelled Robert’s pineapple and cedarwood eau de cologne. She looked up and saw him enter the kitchen. His hair was still wet and he was wearing light beige pants with a dark blue polo shirt. That was something she loved so much about him. He was always dressed niceley. She folded the letter in half and put it in the envelope.

“You look refreshed.” She said smiling, while she got up to serve dinner.

Robert took a couple of big steps to reach her. “I feel refreshed. I am happy you are here, I think I forgot to tell you that when I got home.”

Cora raked with her fingers through his hair. “I am happy to be here too. We should do that more often.”

Robert kissed her neck and softly bit her earlobe. “Where do you want to live?”

“I heard you had a large house somewhere?” Cora leaned her full body weight against Robert.

“I heard you are going to rebuild a large house.” He moved his hands over her stomach and pressed her against his body.

“It is an option, but let us first eat.” Cora kissed him tenderly.

But Papa! Why? Chapter 34

Robert turned around in bed, a small light was coming from Cora’s side. He saw she was sitting against the headboard, reading half hidden under the covers. He scooted closer and slid his arm over her stomach. “What is bothering you?” He rasped in his sleepy voice. He had learned that Cora only read during the night when she was worrying about something.

He felt Cora letting out a deep sigh. Robert pushed himself up against the headboard. “Cora?” he asked.

“Never mind me.” Cora said, turning towards her nightstand to put her book down.

“No, no. Something is wrong, please tell me.” Robert brushed an escaped curl behind Cora’s ear.

Cora turned half towards Robert, leaning on her side. “Do you really think your mother meant what she said?”

Robert raised his eyebrows. “You think she does not? Cora my mother is not that malicious.”

Cora rested her hand on Robert’s arm. “I know, I am sorry. I did not mean to talk bad about your mother. But her treatment of me has not been very nice from the start.”

“Wel.” Robert started. “I was not very nice to you from the start either. And look at us now.” He leaned in and kissed Cora’s cheek.

Cora blushed. “I know, but that is different.”

Robert kissed Cora’s cheek again a bit closer to her lips. “Is it?”

Cora brushed with her hand over Robert’s cheek. “Yes, because I love you and you love me. Your mother will never love me.”

Robert was now hoovering with his face in front of Cora’s. “My mother said, she was sorry for her harsh treatment and welcomed you in the family. And who cares what she thinks, Papa loves you, Rosamund adores you and I admire you.”

“You only admire me?” She teased.

Robert kissed Cora’s soft lips. “I am mad about you.” He kissed her again. “I am crazy about you.” Another kiss. “I cherish you.” A longer kiss this time. “I worship you.” He crashed his lips against Cora’s, and she granted him access. Robert moved so he was sitting on Cora’s lap. His hands resting on her sides, meanwhile not breaking the kiss.

Cora’s hands were slowly moving over Robert’s chest, plucking at the buttons of his nightshirt.

“Whatever our families say, we know what we want,” Robert said when the kiss stopped. He looked Cora in the eye. “We have found each other, and I am never letting you go.”

“I know indeed what I want,” Cora said breathy. She opened the buttons that she was plucking on before. “I want you.”

Robert growled and he felt himself grow. “There is nothing more that I want than to be together with you.” He pulled on Cora’s shirt. She was wearing a silk top, that he could easily slide over her head. Her breasts bounced when the fabric got stuck behind them and finally caved. A sight he could watch all day. She had small breasts, but they were perfect. Dark circles surrounding her nipples. When she stretched her arms up, he could see her ribs and his hand moved automatically towards it. Her skin was soft and warm. He bent forward and kissed her neckline, he moved his kisses down, in between her breasts, over her ribcage to her belly. His hands were back at her hips and when he felt Cora lifting her hips, he moved with her and pulled down her pyjama bottoms in the same movement. Dark curly hairs popped up when he moved her panties down. For a moment he stared at her, soaking in everything he saw. Trying to make a mental image. Her porcelain skin, slim figure, dark curls covering her folds, perky breast, red full lips, small nose, and light blue eyes, topped off with chestnut brown long curls. She looked like a picture.

“Do you like what you see?”

He had seen parts of her before, but he had not seen her fully naked body before. He swallowed and nodded. “You are beautiful” he said with a raspy voice.

Cora moved her upper body, so she was closer to Robert again, she removed his pyjama shirt. Her fingers sliding over his chest and arms. When his arms were out of the sleeves, she moved her hands over his back down to his legs. He was sitting on his knees across Cora’s legs, so he rolled of her. Cora moved with him and slid down his pants. He was laying only in his boxer shorts; Cora was now hoovering over him, and he could see that she liked what she was seeing. With her tongue she circled around his nipples and moved her kisses down to his groin. Her hands followed and the sensation of her small, soft fingers on his bare skin made him burst from excitement. He was going to feel her, he would know if her hand would fit as perfectly as he had imagined.

Unexpectedly fast she pulled down his boxer and moved back so her hand rested on his inner leg. She was teasing him. Her hands were so close, but she kept from touching him. Cora’s eyes searched for his and he saw a cheeky twinkle in them. She moved so her warm core was resting on top of him. Robert felt himself getting harder. His own hands rested on Cora’s hips, and he tried to move her so he could enter her. His hands caressed her thighs, and he could not resist and moved his hand inwards. Cora spread her legs a bit more to grand him access. He strokes with his fingers over her warm spot and slowly moved inwards. She was more than ready he noticed; he sped up his pace what resulted in deep moans coming from Cora’s throat. He looked up at her, her head in her neck, he chest moving rapidly. Her curls were down and rested on her shoulders. She looked like an angel.

Cora moved her hips with the same rhythm as Robert’s hand moved. He felt her getting tighter around his fingers and pulled back. Another deep moan left Cora’s mouth and her eyes shot open. He smiled up at her, he knew she needed more, he needed more himself, but he needed to feel her around him. Not just around his fingers. He put his hands on her hips and turned her on her back, so he was on top again.

Her hand moved towards his manhood, and he gasped, when her fingers closed around him. This feeling was better than what he had dreamed of. She indeed fitted perfectly, and her movements were steady but firm. His body started to shutter, and he could not hold it much longer. “Cora?” He managed to say. “Can I.” He stopped, Cora did not slow down her movements and he had trouble forming words. “Cora.” his voice sounded very soft.

Cora moved her hips, she knew what Robert meant, but she wanted to tease him a bit longer. With his last Cora, she slowed her hand down and guided him towards her. His thrusts were strong and even though it did hurt a bit, she encouraged him to go on.

Robert saw a wrinkle on Cora’s forehead, he stopped his thrusting. “Am I hurting you?”

Cora shook her head. “Not really, please do not stop.”

“Are you sure?” He saw the same wrinkle when he thrusted again. He slowed his movements down, slowly he moved out of her. His hand taking over. Robert felt Cora relax and knew he had made the right decision when she reached her high, quickly after. He kissed her jaw and stroke with his finger over her skin. “That was magical.”

Cora looked up at him, with coy eyes. “I am sorry.”

“You have lost your mind, I think. What are you saying sorry for?” Robert still caressed Cora’s skin.

“You did not reach your high.”

Robert smiled and pressed a kiss on her lips. “You gave me more; you reached your high and seeing that was magical.”

Cora pushed herself up and wrapped her arms around his chest. “Come lay with me.”

Robert did as she asked, he pulled the blankets up with him, to cover them both. But as soon as he lied down, Cora disappeared under the covers. He gasped when her mouth closed around him, her hands on his hips and before he knew, he reached his high. Slowly Cora’s head popped up from under the covers, with a proud smile. “You deserved that.” She said before kissing him intensely.

Cora rested her head on Robert’s chest and closed her eyes. Her hand was slowly moving over his chest and ribcage. She smiled when she saw him in her mind. His strong hips and thighs, his broad, slightly browned chest, with dark hairs covering his skin. His strong jaw flowing into his sexy blue eyes. His brown hair was getting long, and it curled on his forehead and in his neck. The concern on his face, when he noticed she was hurting, made her arousal in that moment only bigger. He was so caring, even when he was overwhelmed with lust, he still did take care of her needs. Cora pressed a kiss on his skin. “Sleep tight darling.”

But Papa? Why? Chapter 33

Robert’s hand rested on Cora’s back. He slowly moved his fingers. She knew he was trying to give her strength. They were in front of his parents’ house. Robert had told his father he was going to propose, but he had not told his mother, Cora learned. And now they were at their place to tell them the good news. Although Cora was not sure Violet would agree with that. Was she going to be happy for them? This marriage meant that the Abbey would be rebuilt, but it also meant Cora was going to stay in Robert’s life for ever.

She felt her lips curl up in a smile thinking about their future together. She was excited to spend the rest of her life with him next to her and raising a family. They had not talked about children she suddenly realised. What if he did not want children?

“Cora?” Robert rested a hand on her shoulder. “Are you alright?”

She had not noticed but she had started shaking. She raised her hand to pad Robert’s hand. “I am. It is just nerves.” She turned her head to face him. “We should go inside.”

“Cora, wait.” Robert pulled Cora back when she started walking. He pulled a bit too hard, which resulted in Cora stumbling back in his arms. Robert seized the opportunity and pressed his lips on hers. “Whatever Mama will say, I am overjoyed with the idea of you as my wife and starting a family with you.”

Cora smiled up to him. “Are you really? Do you want a family?”

Robert moved a hand to her abdomen and looked her in the eye. “I cannot wait to see you grow one day.”

“Oh Robert.” Cora sighed, kissing him again.

“Love birds! That is enough. Are you two coming in or what?” Rosamund’s voice sounded.

Cora instantly stepped back from Robert; with red coloured cheeks she stepped inside.

+++

“So, you are sure about this?” Violet asked.

Robert was relieved when Rosamund suggested she and Cora would go for a walk. His mother had not been happy with their news, and he noticed how Cora shrunk with each minute they were in the room.

“Mama, I do not understand you. First, you have a scheme to get a wealthy woman to come and work for us. You try to send her back when you learn her money is not freely available. Then you pressed me to marry her and now I am marrying her, and you are still not happy.”

“Robert, I want you to be happy. You should not marry someone you do not love.”

A laugh coming from Patrick interrupted them. “My dear, have you looked at your son recently?”

“I do not know what you mean.” Violet answered.

“Every time Robert talks about Cora, his eyes are twinkling. How can you not see how much he loves that dear woman.”

“She is American.”

“You should stop this.” Patrick sighed. “You started this and knew from the start she was American. And what is wrong with being an American? Nothing! Cora is a very decent woman, who clearly loves our son. The fact she has stayed at Downton when he injured himself is proof enough for her dedication towards him.”

Robert felt embarrassed, his parents were talking as if he were not in the room.

“Robert decided to marry her, and with that, you will get your wish. The Abbey will be rebuilt with her money.”

“Thank you, Papa.” Robert said. “Mama, I have only one wish.”

“And that is.” Violet now looked at him again.

“You will treat Cora in a decent and normal way. You will accept her into the family and will stop blaming her for her American roots.”

“She will learn how to fit in here, soon enough.”

“She? Cora, you mean!” Robert said angry. “Cora does fit in perfectly already, I am asking you to stop your hatred towards her. You are the reason she is here, but you will never be the reason she would leave this country. I love Cora with everything that I am, and I want you to treat her as you would want to be treated yourself. With love and respect.”

+++

“Welcome to the family Sis.” Rosamund put her arm through Cora’s. The were walking in the park behind the house.

Cora shrugged. “Not sure if I will ever be part of the family.”

“Mama can jump up and down or stand on her head, but Robert will never let you go. And Papa will not accept Mama’s treatment of you any longer. He has liked you from the start.”

“Well, enough about that. How are you and Marmaduke doing. Did you already set a date?”

“We will have an autumn wedding. Marmaduke does not want to wait too long, but I do not want to get married in the middle of summer.”

“That is indeed fast. Do you already have a venue?”

“Marmaduke managed to get the SkyGarden, we will have a ceremony in the Church first and then the ceremony in the SkyGarden with a dinner and party after.”

“That sounds amazing. Do you already have a photographer?”

“Not yet I should look into that.”

“I could ask Baxter to do it. You have seen how she works, and I know that she will not have to work on that day.” Cora chuckled.

“Perfect. I would love that. But there is a more important matter.”

Cora stopped walking and looked at Rosamund with raised eyebrows. “What do you mean? Is something wrong?”

Rosamund now laughed out loud. “Nothing is wrong. Not everything in this family is surrounded by drama.”

“I am sorry.” Cora lowered her eyes.

“Cora, what I mean, is that I have an important question for you. I need a witness for the marriage, and I was hoping you would want to be my witness?

“Rosamund, I would be honoured.” She wrapped her arms around her and pressed her close. “Thank you for asking me.

“What are we celebrating?” Robert’s voice sounded.

Rosamund took his hand. “Your bride to be, will be my witness.”

“That is indeed amazing news.” Robert stepped closer to Cora and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “You will look amazing that day.”

“Not as beautiful as she will be on your own special day.” Rosamund winked. “I will leave you two.”

Robert kissed Cora’s temple. “We should go back inside; Mama and papa have something to say you.” He put his hand on her cheek when he saw the look in her eyes. “Do not worry, it is good. Mama will support us; she told me to go and get you.