The Footmans Love

Chapter Six

December 1912,

Laurence picked up the small gift box that held the pocket watch he had bought for Thomas when he was in London, in hopes Thomas would accept the gift and even forgive him. Thomas was kind to Laurence when he dressed the young man but gave him the cold shoulder on any interaction that was not mandatory, the footman was stubborn.

Taking in a deep breath he made his way out of his room, he knew he shouldn't bother the servants while they ate their dinner but he had wanted to give Thomas his gift in private instead of at Christmas in front of everyone.

Entering the dining area he watched as Carson stood up followed by most of the servants with the exception of Miss O'brian, she had never liked Laurence much.

"May I speak to Thomas" Laurence said gazing around the table attempting to find the face of the forever miserable footman, "he's just outside" Carson said in his monotone voice. Laurence thanked Carson before heading out the servants entrance, upon making his way outside he saw Thomas leaning against a shack, a cigarette between his lips.

"What are you doing down here?" Thomas asked not so much as even glancing at the other man, "I came to give you this" Laurence stepped towards Thomas, holding out the small gift box in his right hand.

"It's not Christmas yet" Thomas sarcastically pointed out, his words discouraged Laurence who pulled the gift box back slightly. "I'm sorry I just wanted to give you this in private" Laurence gave a weak smile, Thomas turned his face, raising an eyebrow in question. "Here" he gently placed the gift box in Thomas hand, and for a brief moment he could've sworn he saw a smile creep onto the other man's pale face. Thomas began to slowly open the gift box, carefully removing the ribbon and the wrapping paper. Once Thomas laid eyes on what was inside he glanced up at Laurence, a smile spread across his face, something Laurence had not seen in months.

"Laurence" Thomas began glancing up from the small pocket watch then to Laurence, "I knew your dad was a clock maker, and I saw it while in London and I knew you'd like it" Laurence rambled on.

"I appreciate" Thomas smiled, taking a step closer to the young gentlemen, "thank you Laurence" he added with a smile.

The two stood in an awkward silence, neither knowing what quiet to do. "I'm glad you like it" Laurence said turning to head back into the house, "Laurence wait" Thomas yelled running towards him. Laurence turned around only to be engulfed in a hug seconds later by Thomas, Laurence was hesitant at first to return the gesture, as he truly believed Thomas had hated him, but he soon hugged back letting himself enjoy the comfort of hugging his best friend after months of not talking much.

They remained in the hug for who knows how long, enjoying the company of the other in the cold winter air.

"I should get ready for dinner now" Laurence smiled pulling away from the hug, Thomas stayed silent as he watched the younger man walk back towards the servants entrance. His gaze shifted back towards the pocket watch that he now held in his hand, it was beautifully crafted with intricate detailing.

"Thank you Laurence" Thomas whispered knowing not another soul could hear him in that moment, he was truly grateful for the gift, even more so grateful to have a friend such as Laurence. He admired how the young man would always find a way to make things better, would provide sunshine in his life that was so often bleak and miserable.

He cared for Laurence, enjoyed his company, and hoped he'd never do something so foolish as to hell at his best friend over something so silly once again.

That's what Laurence was to him, a best friend, right?

(A/N: I provide my deepest apologies over the matter of this work being updated much latter than promised, some things had sprung up in my personal life that had prevented me from
updating this fic. As always I hope you all throughly enjoy this chapter, and until next time dear reader!)