Neither was sure how or why it happened. It wasn't planned or expected. It hadn't been mulled over or analyzed. It just was. There was nothing either of them could have done to predict it and certainly nothing either of them wanted to do to stop it. There would be questions of course, but they could address those later.

She knew the exact moment it happened. The exact moment that everything changed between them. It was only a few months after she arrived. The family had been invited to the wedding of a local family's daughter. The entire village had been invited including Downtons' downstairs staff. As she readied herself that afternoon she realized that it was the first time she had dressed in anything but her plain uniform. The first time she had put on a dress and truly felt like a woman. Elsie was by no means subject to vanity. But that day she put in a little extra effort. Pulled her hair up in a much more elegant up-do, a bit of color on her lips and she was wearing her favorite deep scarlet dress with the matching fitted lace trimmed jacket (a rather expensive impulse purchase that she knew she would rarely have a reason to wear but seeing it hang among her other plain dresses reminded her she was indeed a woman). She looked in the mirror as she pinned on her hat and she could not deny she felt beautiful, for the first time in a long time.

The staff had planned to meet in the servants hall at half-past three to walk to the church together but as she descended down the stairs and into the hall she noticed him sitting in the chair in the corner completely engrossed in a book. He was the only person ready and waiting. She remembered walking into the servants hall that infamous afternoon…

"Mr. Carson where are the others? It's already almost half-past…"

Elise's voice pulled Charles from his novel induced reverie before he even noticed her presence. But when he looked up his eyes met hers and immediately he was at a loss for words. He took her in slowly starting at her feet working his was up to her face. Charles realized by the blush in her cheeks that he was staring. Feeling rather warm himself and trying to cover his awkward gawking he closed his book and managed to stammer out…

"Elise, hello, what?, I must have lost track of time. The others? Yes, the others I should probably go check."

Elise was at a loss. Instantly self-conscious, she averted her eyes, gently cleared her throat and touched her hand to her stomach (her natural self-soothing reflex) as Charles stood and gently brushed past her out of the room to see about the others. She and Mr. Carson were not exactly friends but they had worked and lived in the same house for a few months now. He had seen her day in and day out and not once in all that time had he looked at her like he just had. Elise tried to makes heads and tails of what exactly Charles had been thinking. What was different? Why had he suddenly looked at her that way? She had to admit she was flattered. Charles Carson was a very handsome man but more than that, she believed he was a good man. Elise was not used to being looked at like that by good men. Before her thoughts could stray any further she was interrupted by his deep voice and footsteps of the other staff.

"Elise we will be leaving now, if you're ready?"

Elise nodded meeting his eyes once more and took a step forward. However, when she got to the door Charles remained filling the doorway. Much to Elise's surprise he reached out turning his hand over palm-side up and gently placed it on her lower back to guide her through the doorway. But before she pasted him she heard his gentle voice in her ear

"I'm sorry for staring earlier, I hope you don't mind but I must say you really look quite beautiful."

Elise, bringing her hand back to her stomach, turned her head to avert his gaze, this time her turn to be shocked. In a voice that sounded much like a surprised whisper she uttered a sincere

"Thank you, Mr. Carson."

Once in the courtyard with the others the two separated into their natural groups, her with the other housemaids and him behind the rest escorting Mrs. Leeland the elderly housekeeper.

Charles was thankful that Mrs. Leeland was not a talkative person. It gave him the entire walk to the church to try and sort out these feelings. How had he worked with Elsie day in and day out for months and not noticed how beautiful she was? He had noticed her lovely demeanor and caring personality almost instantly upon her arrival qualities which he great admired. And of course Charles was not a blind man he knew she was lovely. However he felt guilty that it took her putting on that beautiful claret colored dress for him to notice the way her eyes sparkled or the way her hair was just the perfect chestnut color. She was truly so so beautiful. As they arrived at the church he vowed to not make that mistake again.

The ceremony was beautiful. Elise even teared up a bit as the couple, so obviously in love, exchanged vows. Charles, she noticed, ended up seated in the row behind her. What she hadn't noticed however was that Charles was not watching the ceremony. No, regardless of how hard he tried, he couldn't keep his eyes off her. He noticed her tearing up and it took most of his strength not to reach out and offer a comforting touch. A frightening realization for the ever stoic Charles Carson. He wasn't sure what was happening to him but he was sure his mind (and heart…) was not about to let go of Elise Hughes any time soon.

At the reception Elise was asked to help manage the gift table. She stayed by herself most of the evening only greeting the handful of people from the village who recognized her. On and off her mind wandered back to Charles and the moment they shared in the servants hall earlier that day. When she scanned the yard for him she was surprised that each time she found him, his eyes warmly met hers. After dinner as the music and dancing started Elise was content to watch as most of the guests paired up, but couldn't deny the small pang of loneliness that suddenly and forcefully evaded her heart. She was forced to quickly put those feelings aside when, out of nowhere, Charles suddenly appeared next to her

"Elise, you have been over here for quite some time. Could I get you something to drink? A cup of coffee or tea maybe?"

Elise nodded her head gratefully

"Thank you Mr. Carson it is actually getting a bit chilly out here, a cup of tea would be lovely."

Charles smiled at her and headed over to gather her tea. Elsie realized almost immediately after he walked away her glaring mistake. She sent the butler to fetch her tea. She contemplated calling out to him revoking her request. But she didn't want to shout. Charles returned promptly with her tea slightly nervous

"I'm sorry Elsie but I realized I'm sure how you like your tea… I guessed two sugars and cream?"

Elsie wished and prayed for a hole to open up and swallow her whole. She took the cup from him cautious yet gratefully

"Mr. Carson thank you, that is actually exactly how I take my tea. However, I apologize for sending you to fetch it. I know that it is far beneath you to serve me. I… for a moment I forgot my place. I won't let it happen again. I am truly sorry."

This woman, he thought. Apologizing to me for bringing her tea that I offered to her. She was the epitome of kindness and integrity. But on top of that he had properly guessed how she took her tea! Charles couldn't help himself, he offered her a warm smile

"Elise, you forget, I offered to bring you the tea."

She paused then smiled resigned scrunching up her nose a little…

"Oh… yes I supposed you did didn't you?"

As Elise sipped her tea and watched the dancers she was having a terribly hard time understanding how they seemed so much closer in just the span of a few hours. If she was honest she hardly knew the man standing next to her. Charles was a stoic, hard working man dedicated to his job. She found herself wanting nothing more than to get to know the real non-butler version of Charles Carson. More of this softer version of himself, that she had seen a glimpse of these last few moments. She was brought out of her thoughts when his arm brushed against hers. She could still feel his warmth radiating from as he repositioned his arm quite close to her own. She found herself having to make a conscious effort to not lean into his touch again.

Charles couldn't help but think back on this woman he found he couldn't quite get enough of. He was feeling terribly shy and unsure of what to say around her. They had only ever shared a few short conversations in her time here and he realized quickly that he wanted that to change promptly. Next thing he knew he realized he was leaning into her. Propriety told him to pull himself away, so he did so reluctantly as the band announced that they would be finishing up with a final song. The music changed to something sweet and slow as the couples on the floor held each other a little closer, giving Charles an idea holding out his hand he asked…

"Elise? It seems to have slowed down a bit over here… do you think you could be relieved of your duties and give me the honor of this dance?

Elise smiled and looked at his offered hand. She reached out with her own much smaller hand and gently grasped his as he lead her to the dance floor.

He was so enraptured with this woman in his arms he almost forgot how to dance a simple slow dance, but thankfully Elise didn't seem to notice. Charles first noticed how small she was compared to himself. He knew Elsie Hughes was by no means a weak woman, oh goodness no. He may not know her that well but he knew without a doubt from working with her that this Scottish housemaid may look small but she could certainly hold her own. One of the hardest workers he had ever encountered. He knew she had grown up on a farm and she made hard work and heavy lifting look like child's play. The second thing he noticed was how lovely she smelled as his head lingered close to hers. He had never really stood close enough to Elise to ever notice. Roses or lavender he thought, but it was gentle, not overwhelming. Almost as if her natural scent was something floral. He also noticed she was cold, shivering a little. He felt rather protective when he pulled her in a little closer to try and warm her up.

Elise wished silently that the band would slow down. She wanted this moment to last as long as it possibly could. She felt so safe hand in hand with his arm wrapped around her waist. She knew Charles Carson was strong but being pressed into his broad chest like this she could feel the strength. The way he smelled was another thing. Elise realized she had never been close enough to Charles to know what he smelled like. But it was most comforting she thought. Sort of musky with a hint cinnamon or maybe ginger. And he was so warm. She knew she had been chilled in the night air but Charles didn't seem to mind at all. Being wrapped up and finally warming up in his arms she realized how cold she had been.

The song ended and they were forced to break apart. Each realizing that neither of them had said a word to one another while they danced. Being forced to pull away from her, Charles immediately removed his jacket and wrapped it snuggly around Elsie's shoulders.

"Thank you Charl-I'm sorry Mr. Carson."

"Elise, please don't apologize. I would actually quite prefer it if you wouldn't mind calling me Charles."

Her eyes looked up to meet his noticing the warmth there she smiled back

"Well then, thank you… Charles."

Peter, one of the footman, broke them out of their trance calling out to Charles inviting him to join a group of men from the village at the pub. Elise began to remove Charles' jacket so he could leave with Peter. She carefully held it out to him. When he took it from her she couldn't deny the disappointment. Charles however was not ready for the night to end and immediately put it right back over her shoulders

"Thank you Peter but I don't think so."

He said adjusting the jacket over her shoulders.

"I think instead I will accompany the ladies back to the house. It is getting to be quite late."

Peter shrugged and ran off indifferently to join his friends leaving Charles and Elise alone together.

Noticing the rest of the staff grouped up heading for the main road, Charles offered Elise his arm. She took it grateful to be close to him again and the pair, remaining just far enough behind the rest, and taking their time, headed back toward Downton.

As the group returned to Downton everyone sleepily made their was inside and up the steps to their rooms. Charles and Elise arrived as the last hall boy was retiring for the night. Alone now, Charles began locking up as Elise quietly slipped out of his jacket. She folding it over her arm, thankful for its warmth, and waited for him as he placed the key back on its hook. He turned to her as she held out the coat

"Charles, thank you again."

He took the jacket from her and placed it over his own arm.

"Please, don't mention it. You were so cold earlier it was the least I could do."

She nodded. The moment was quiet, but not awkward as she feared it may be.

Charles couldn't remember feeling this content in a very long time. He knew it was late and they would both have to be up in a matter of hours but he knew he wasn't quite ready to break the spell. He cleared his throat

"Elise, I know it's late but I was wondering if perhaps you'd join me for a cuppa before bed?"

Elise herself was considering making the same suggestion but did not want to ask him to remain awake for her sake.

"I was actually just about to ask you the same question. A cup of tea sounds perfect."

The duo made their way into the kitchen and Elise quietly filled the kettle and placed it on the stove while Charles located the recently filled biscuit tin. As the water boiled Elise fixed their tea and carried the cups over to Charles who was sitting at the small table reserved traditionally for Mrs. Patmmore and the kitchen staff. She placed a cup in front of Charles and sat down with her own across from him.

"Thank you."

He took a sip and was surprised to find the cup was crafted to his exact preference. Extra milk and honey instead of sugar.

"Elise this is delicious… you know how I take my tea?"

She shyly smiled and casually explained…

"Well, yes… I've discovered that knowing something as simple as how one takes their tea is one of those small gestures that means quite a lot to people. When one is new somewhere it is nice to have something that shows others that you care. Besides I guess I am sort of naturally observant and I suppose I have made a study of it. It becomes quite useful in moments such as this."

Charles again was at a loss. There was so much about this woman he didn't know. She was a quiet one, that was for sure, but he was amazed by the volumes her mind spoke to him at the moment. She was indeed observant and not to mention incredibly kind. He could help but smirk at her as their eyes met

"Elise Hughes, you amaze me."

She furiously blushed at his statement and hoping to change the subject busied herself with the biscuit tin. She opened it and offered him first pick and watched as his smile turned to that of an excited little boy

"Gingersnaps! Elise, please Remind me to thank Mrs. Patmore tomorrow. Gingersnaps are my favorite."

Gingersnaps. Of course, she thought. That was the sweet spicy smell she noticed when they were dancing and couldn't quite place. It was gingersnaps. Picking one out of the tin for herself the words left her mouth rather teasingly without a second thought

"I thought I detected a hint of gingersnap on your shirt earlier Mr. Carson…"

Elise caught herself as his name left her lips. Elisabeth Grace Hughes. You did not just tell that man you smelled him!

Now it was his turn to blush he replied teasingly

"You've caught me Ms. Hughes. Mrs. Patmore knows they are my favorite and makes sure to keep a small tin aside specially for me. I keep it hidden in the drawers of my bureau with my shirts."

Oh thank goodness he didn't seem completely appalled by her confession. Once she had a moment to breathe Elise had to admit there was something quite precious about Mr. Carson, the hard and tough butler of Downton Abbey, keeping a tin of biscuits along his shirts. She realized she was smiling and he broke her thoughts

"I suppose you find it quite ridiculous me keeping a tin of biscuits amongst my shirts. But they have always been my favorite. My mother made them for me when I was young and they reminded me of her."

She was touched by his honestly and in that moment she fixed her eyes on his gently

"Charles I'm sorry, no, I don't find you the least bit ridiculous. I can actually relate, maybe not with food, but I keep bags of dried lavender in my bureau drawers because the scent reminds me of my grandmother."

Lavender, he thought, of course. Lavender was the lovely scent he smelled on her while they were dancing. And she wasn't going to make fun of him for the biscuits - Beryl may bake them but Elise was the only person aware of the honest reason for his fondness of the treat. His voice softened

"So that is what I smelled on your hair while we were dancing. It's quite lovely."

No, thought Charles quickly as the words left his mouth. No, no, no man! Charles Oliver Carson she is going to think you're a creep!

Elise's eyes quickly met his and both realized they had both admitted to in the last few moments. Finding a boost of courage she smiled as him as she spoke

"Honestly Charles, I thought the hint of ginger on your shirt was quite lovely as well."

The conversation turned to other things. Favorite novels and favorite foods. He told her about his family and she shared a few stories of growing up in Scotland. As the night drew on the both grew quiet as they shared smiles and finished their tea. There was something so intimate about the conversation they were having. Casually tip-toeing around the fact that only a few hours early they had held one another close enough to have analyzed one anthers smell. Regardless neither seemed to be feeling shy.

Elise realized in that moment she had not shared details this personal about herself in quite some time. She wasn't exactly sure why she felt so comfortable sharing such a personal detail with Charles but she found herself feeling strangely safe. Elise wondered what it was about Charles and why all of the sudden. She glanced up from her tea cup as he grabbed another biscuit from the tin. She realized he was a gentle man. Yes he was handsome, tall, broad and very strong. But he was also handsome, meticulous and gentle. She noticed how a single curl had come loose from is pommade hold and found its way to his forehead. She wondered if Charles would be embarrassed if he knew that she saw him breaking out of his butler facade. That single curl made him look like a young man and less like the stuffy butler many of the staff had described him as. She knew they were wrong. The comment he made about his mother earlier and the stories he told of his family gave her a glimpse at who Charles Carson really was. She trusted him. Dancing in and walking home on those strong arms had made her feel safe. But seeing him here now across from her casual and relaxed put her at ease. She wasn't sure what this was. How in the matter of a few hours they could go from mere acquaintances to dance-sharing, tea drinking, confidants but she hopped that this new found… whatever this was would not end tonight.

Charles felt more comfortable with Elise than he did with some of his closest friends. He watched, almost mesmerized, as she carefully broke apart her biscuit and slightly submerged each piece into her tea just long enough to soften it before placing it in her mouth. In this soft light of the kitchen her features seemed even more perfectly delicate, if that was possible. She seemed so small and dainty to him here like this. He knew she traditionally kept to herself. She quite usually could be found tucked away in the corner reading or sewing. She was friendly with the others in the house but didn't necessarily share tea one on one with any of them. He wondered if it was possible that she lowered her guard a bit around him, maybe felt safe. The way she gripped his arm as they walked home from the church made him feel very protective of this woman. This hold she managed to created over him over the last few hours he still couldn't quite comprehend though. She wasn't really flirting with him simply having fun and keeping up her end of the conversation however her playful manner was something he was not used to seeing from the hardworking housemaid. He found he quite liked this side of Elise. Her smile lit up her entire face and the sound of her laughter was like music to his ears. He was captivated by her. He silently prayed that this… this whatever this was between them, would have the opportunity to grow.

Charles caught Elise trying to stifle a yawn across the table

"Elise I am sorry I'd forgotten how late it was - we should probably clear these things away and call it a night before Mrs. Patmore shoos us out of here herself."

"Not a wrath I want to endure before bed… this has been nice though. I feel I've sort of gotten to know you a bit. I can't believe we have lived in the same house for almost 4 months now and haven't had a proper conversation."

"Nor I, honestly. Who would have believed that of everyone in this house you and I seem to have so much in common. You're easy to talk to Ms. Hughes I hope we can do this again sometime."

"Yes, that would be lovely."

Charles and Elsie stood up and cleared away their cups making sure they hadn't left any crumbs or dribbles behind. As they reached the door Charles gestured for Elise to lead and as he did earlier that day placed his hand on her lower back to guide her through the door as he turned off the light.

They made their way down the hall and up the stairs each meeting the other step for step arms and hands gently brushing against one another as they walked. As they reached the top of the steps each turned toward their respective end of the hallways. Elsie was the first to speak

"Sweet dreams, Charles."

Charles turned his head over his shoulder and was met with her sweet smile. He couldn't help but smile at her in return

"You too Elise, sweet dreams."

And with that they each quietly continued on to their own rooms. Each still unsure of how they got here but neither willing to allow it to end.