I decided to follow kouw's example (if you haven't read her 'one year' drabble fic do it, it's wonderful) and set up a series of drabbles.

I thought it could be easier to update, having to write max. 300 words, I really hope I will be able to update as often as lots of Chelsie writers in here do.

Summary: Follow Charles and Elsie in their journey to fight back cold. A collection of Chelsie drabbles, not necessarily stand alones, it's strongly possible for this to become a thing. Rated K, might go up to T and even M.

One.

The fine gravel muffles their footsteps, spreading a rhythmical and soft sound in the cold December morning.

The icy air slaps Elsie in the face with force as soon as she steps out of Downton.

She inhales sharply, tightening her wool scarf around her neck and squaring her shoulders as if to protect herself from the cold penetrating her bones.

She feels cold, now more than ever. She has lived through fifty-eight winters, she should be used to the feeling. But she's not. She has shrugged it off during the previous years, like brushing the dust off her favourite coat - this winter however, she can't get rid of it as easily as before.

Has she got so old that she can't stand cold anymore?

She starts walking swiftly, her back straight, her head high. She needn't trouble herself with such thoughts.

All of a sudden he is at her side. She feels him rather than hears him, being too engrossed in her thoughts. His presence is silent but commanding, he is a gentle and noble soul concealed by a gruff and stern exterior. He has made it his armor, polishing it with professionalism, making it shine with silver polish.

Elsie raises her head, looks at him. His brows are furrowed, his deep brown eyes search her face for signs of distress. She tries to smile reassuringly, he has nothing to worry about: the matter doesn't concern him.

Charles moves hesitantly, raising his right arm, offering it to her. She ponders whether to take it or not.

Then slowly, ever so slowly (as things between them always happen) she finally takes it.

She feels his warmth radiating through his coat, she almost sighs in contentment thinking how it would be to be held by him.

And the cold wears off.

300 words. BAM!

If you'd like for this to continue, please leave a review. Encouragement is always great.