Chapter 93

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As Thomas gently brushed a strand of hair away from Ellie's face, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him

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As Thomas gently brushed a strand of hair away from Ellie's face, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Life had changed significantly since their days at Downton Abbey. Leaving temporarily behind his position as first footman had been a difficult decision, but one he never regretted. The quiet coastal village they now called home provided the perfect setting for their new life together.

Lost in his thoughts, Thomas gently rubbed his growing belly, a small bump now visible beneath his shirt.

Turning his attention back to Ellie, Thomas wondered if she would like to go for a walk. He knew how much she enjoyed exploring nature, the wind in her hair and the salty sea air filling her lungs. With a smile on his face, he whispered, "Ellie, my love, shall we go for a walk?"

Ellie's eyes sparkled with excitement as she sat up in bed, her gaze fixed on her father. "Yeah, w -walk, Daddy Walk!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands in glee.

Chuckling at her enthusiasm, Thomas swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up once he had gotten himself and Ellie dressed he gently lifted Ellie into his arms, relishing in her weight against his chest, he marvelled at how her trust in him never wavered.

Stepping out into the crisp coastal air, Thomas took a deep breath and let it out slowly, reveling in the scent of the sea mingling with the surrounding wildflowers. He looked down at Ellie, who was gazing wide-eyed at the world around her. With her raven hair dancing in the breeze, she radiated pure joy.

Setting Ellie down on her feet, Thomas held onto her hand firmly, knowing that her balance was often precarious. Together, they set off along the winding path that led to the rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean. The sound of crashing waves filled the air, blending with the symphony of seagulls overhead.

As they walked, Thomas pointed out various plants and animals they encountered along the way, describing each one in vivid detail. Ellie listened attentively, her eyes shining with curiosity. Every step they took brought them closer to nature's embrace, and Thomas couldn't help but feel grateful for this precious time together.

Along the cliff's edge, they found a grassy spot to sit and rest. Thomas spread out a blanket, and Ellie plopped down between his legs, her legs stretching out in front of her. They sat in companionable silence, their eyes fixed on the vast expanse of the sea before them.

"Daddy," Ellie finally spoke, breaking the silence, "Will baby l - like walks too?" 

Thomas smiled tenderly, his heart swelling with love for his daughter. "Oh, Ellie, I'm sure the baby will love walks just as much as you do. We'll take them on many adventures, just like this one."

Ellie beamed, her eyes filled with anticipation. "I'll be the b - best big sister, Daddy. I p - promise"

Wrapping his arm around Ellie's small frame, Thomas pulled her close and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "And I know you'll be an amazing big sister, my darling girl. We're going to be the happiest family, you, me, and the new baby."

With the salty breeze caressing their faces and the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs, Thomas and Ellie sat there, basking in the beauty of the moment. Their journey as a family continued, filled with love, hope, and the promise of new adventures, all in the company of the endless sea and the boundless love they shared.

As Thomas looked down at Ellie, he marveled at her strength and resilience. At the tender age of four, she had already faced numerous challenges due to her cerebral palsy. The condition affected her balance, movement, and posture, but it had never dampened her spirit. She had become Thomas's beacon of hope and inspiration, teaching him the true meaning of unconditional love.

~

As they made their way back to the cottage, Ellie's eyelids grew heavy, her small body yearning for the comfort of her bed and once back at the cottage with practiced ease, he changed her into her cozy nightdress.

But this evening, Thomas felt a longing to hold Ellie close, to feel her small body nestled against his own. He knew that their bond was unbreakable, forged through countless moments of love, support, and understanding. And so, Ellie would spend the night with him.

With Ellie in his arms, Thomas entered his bedroom, her head resting gently against his shoulder. He laid her down on his bed, her vibrant pale green eyes heavy with sleep. As he settled in beside her, his heart swelled with a love that knew no limits. He gazed down at his daughter, her serene expression bringing a smile to his lips.

In the hushed silence of the room, Thomas watched as Ellie's breathing slowed, her little body relaxing into the depths of sleep. She instinctively reached out her tiny arms, wrapping them around her father's middle, seeking comfort and security. Thomas's heart overflowed with affection as he gently caressed her silky hair, his voice a soft whisper in the stillness.

"My Ellie," he murmured, his words a gentle lullaby, "you are my greatest treasure. As you slumber in my arms, know that my love for you knows no bounds. You have brought immeasurable joy into my life, and I am forever grateful."

He marveled at the wonders of his body, a body that defied convention and allowed him to experience the joys of both fatherhood and motherhood.

Ellie, sensing her father's thoughts, snuggled closer to him. Her tiny arms wrapped around his middle, creating a cocoon of warmth and security. Her head rested gently against his slightly protruding stomach, as if seeking solace from the life growing within.

As the night deepened and the moon cast a soft glow through the window, Thomas watched Ellie's peaceful slumber. His hand gently stroked her hair, his touch conveying all the love and protection he felt for her. In this intimate space, they were a fortress, shielding one another from the world's judgments and misconceptions.

And so, with Ellie's arms wrapped tightly around him, Thomas closed his eyes, a profound sense of contentment washing over him. 

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