His Two Miracles | Thomas Barrow

Chapter 103

Since they had returned to Downton, Ellie had settled back into her routine with ease. She was attending school once again and, to Thomas's relief, the issues with bullies had ceased. The two boys who had hurt her were no longer at school, and the young girl could finally enjoy her education without fear. Thomas was grateful for the kindness and support the staff at Downton had shown Ellie, making her transition back into school life much smoother.

Once dressed and ready for the day he turned to look behind him then took the few steps towards Ellie bed to wake her up and get her ready for school, once he had dressed her in her school uniform and put on her leg braces and shoes he could see she had something on her mind.

"Daddy, w - why can't you take me to s - school like before?" Ellie asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and a hint of longing.

Thomas paused, his heart sinking at the thought of having to explain the situation to his daughter. He took a deep breath, steeling himself to address her concerns. Sitting down beside her, he gently brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear and looked into her eyes.

"Well, my darling, you see it's important for me to avoid being seen in public," Thomas explained, choosing his words carefully to ensure Ellie understood.

Ellie's brows furrowed slightly as she processed his words, her small hand gripping the fabric of her skirt. She tilted her head to the side, her eyes searching her father's face for further explanation.

"But w - why, Daddy? What will h - happen if people see you?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Thomas's heart swelled with love for his daughter, her innocence shining through her questions. He gently placed a hand on her knee, offering her reassurance.

"Sweetheart, it's not that something will happen if people see me, but rather, it's better for me to stay out of the public eye for now. You know I'm going to have a baby soon, and I need to make sure everything goes smoothly," Thomas replied, hoping to alleviate any worries she might have.

Ellie nodded, her young mind slowly grasping the concept. She looked down at her feet, her fingers tracing patterns on her dress. After a moment of contemplation, she looked up at Thomas, her eyes filled with a mixture of understanding and acceptance.

"I guess Anna w - will take me to school then," she said, her voice filled with resignation.

Thomas's heart ached at the sadness in her voice. He pulled her into a warm embrace, wrapping his arms around her gently.

"Yes, Anna will take you to school for now, but don't worry, I'll be there waiting for you when you come home."

Ellie nestled against her father's chest, finding solace in his comforting embrace. She knew her daddy loved her deeply and would always do his best to make her happy. With that knowledge, she felt a sense of security and contentment.

Thomas took her hand and led her downstairs to the bustling servant's kitchen. It was here that their morning routine continued, even without his presence at Ellie's side.

Just as they arrived, Anna walked into the kitchen, a warm smile on her face. "Good morning, Ellie! Ready for school?"

Ellie beamed up at Anna, the familiar face bringing her comfort. "Yes, I'm r - ready!"

Thomas stepped back, his heart aching with a mixture of pride and longing. "Thank you, Anna, for taking Ellie to school. I really appreciate it."

Anna waved off his gratitude with a gentle smile. "It's no trouble at all, Thomas. Ellie is a joy to be around, and it's my pleasure to help. Besides, we need to make sure you're taking care of yourself and the little one."

Ellie hugged her father tightly, her small arms wrapped around his waist. "Goodbye, Daddy," she whispered, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. "And g - goodbye to my baby sibling t - too!"

Thomas hugged her back, his eyes brimming with love and devotion. "Goodbye, my sweet Ellie. Have a wonderful day at school, and I'll see you soon."

As Anna and Ellie made their way out of the kitchen, leaving through the discreet back door to avoid any unnecessary attention, Thomas watched them go, a mix of emotions swirling within him. He felt a pang of longing as he yearned to be the one walking Ellie to school, but he also felt immense gratitude for the support and love that surrounded them both.

~

The quiet hum of the servants' kitchen enveloped Thomas as he sat in his favourite rocking chair, a cushion propped behind his back for added comfort. He let out a soft sigh, his hand tenderly resting on his swollen belly.

As the school day drew to a close, Thomas found himself anxiously waiting for Anna to return with Ellie. With one hand on his belly, feeling the gentle movements of the baby beneath his touch, Thomas allowed a smile to grace his face. The little one inside him was a reminder of the future, a beacon of hope for a family he had longed for.

As the sound of footsteps echoed through the corridor, Thomas perked up, anticipation coursing through his veins. Revealing Anna's warm smile, accompanied by Ellie's infectious giggles. The young girl bounded over to her father.

"Daddy!" Ellie exclaimed, her eyes alight with joy. "Guess what? We learned about flowers today, and my teacher helped me draw one!"

Thomas couldn't help but be swept away by Ellie's enthusiasm. He opened his arms wide, welcoming her into a warm embrace. "I can't wait to see your masterpiece, my love," he whispered, his voice filled with pride.

Anna stood nearby, her eyes brimming with tenderness as she observed the heartwarming scene. She had come to admire Thomas for his unwavering devotion to Ellie and the strength he exhibited in the face of adversity.

With Ellie nestled in his arms, Thomas gazed into her bright eyes, his voice soft and reassuring. "You make every day better, my sweet Ellie. Daddy loves you more than anything in the world."