The Royal Crawley | A Downton Abbey Fanfiction

Chapter Fourteen | The Talk

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"Well, that was one of the worst dinners I've ever experienced," Sebastian informed as he collapsed on Darrel's bed.

It was the day after Sebastian arrived at Downton Abbey. Much to his chagrin, Isobel wouldn't let him stay with Darrel for the whole day.

"What happened?" Darrel inquired.

"Well, David and Perseus would not stop glaring at each other. And your parents did not even glance in my direction," Sebastian sighed.

"Did something happen?"

"Not that I'm aware of. Although I know that Lord Grantham never liked me..."

"Seb..."

"He once punched me!"

"Four years ago!"

Sebastian rolled his eyes.

"He never forgave me, did he?" Sebastian wondered.

"For what?" Darrel replied.

"Abdicating. He expected you to find a worthier man. And don't lie to me, I know that he said that."

"How did you find out?"

"I forced Sidney to tell me."

"Seb, I am so sorry. I did not want you to find out. And I assure you that Papa no longer has those thoughts."

"You don't know that."

Darrel bit down on her bottom lip and averted her fiancé's gaze. She made to grasp his hand, but he got to his feet.

"I'll let you rest," Sebastian announced.

"Please, Seb, don't be cross," Darrel sighed.

"I'm not."

"Are you sure? We can talk about it."

"I'm fine. Goodnight, my dear."

Sebastian planted a kiss on Darrel's head and left the room.

Sebastian entered his guest bedroom to find Thomas already there.

"You're very prompt, Barrow," he observed.

"His Lordship wishes to speak with you," Thomas informed.

"Can't it wait until morning?"

"No, sir. He insists on meeting with you this evening."

"Very well. Where is he?"

"In the library, sir."

"Thank you, Barrow."