At Your Service [Tommy Shelby]

Lizzie

In the following weeks, Vivian embarked on a journey of learning and absorbing the multitude of tasks and responsibilites that her role demanded. Each day unfurled new challenges, new skills, and new insights into the world of being a maid.

However, much to her disarray there was a notable absence that cast a shadow over her days - Mr. Shelby. He was apperantly away on a business trip. His enigmatic presence, once a source of fascination and unease, had now receded into the background of her daily life.

 In contrast, she had grown acquainted with the lady of the house, Lizzie Shelby, and the children, Charles and Ruby. These bonds, albeit forged through the lens of service, began to acquire a semblance of familiarity. Yet, Vivian couldn't help but notice that Cathy had never formally introduced her to Lizzie on that initial night when she had guided her through the labyrinthine branches of the Shelby family tree.

One afternoon when the maids were all having lunch Vivian couldn't contain her curiosity any longer and asked Cathy about it, since she'd been assigned to get dinner in order for the lady of the house and the kids. Cathy nonchalantly said that it just didn't come up. 

Laughter erupted around the table, a chorus of knowing chuckles from her fellow maids. One of them leaned in, jest in her eyes, and quipped, "Yeah right.. she just doesn't like Lizzie!"

Cathy sighed and, abandoning her lunch, stood up to wash her plate, avoiding eye contact. Vivian looked around, perplexed by the exchange. Another maid chimed in, her tone laced with mirth, "She's jealous, you see? She's in love with mister Shelby!"

The maids dissolved into schoolgirl-giggles, which only served to exacerbate Cathy's irritation. She turned around, her voice laced with anger as she retorted, "No, that's not true! She's just... she's not a kind person, not to Mr. Shelby, and not to any of us!"

A maid, indifferent to the tension, shrugged her shoulders, "Well, I wouldn't be nice to a girl who flirts with my husband."

Cathy's face flushed with anger. "That's absurd," she spat. "Enough gossip! Don't you all have work to do?"

The maids, still amused, cleared the table with more laughter as they headed outside, leaving Vivian in an uncomfortable silence. Cathy launched into a defensive monologue about the maids' absurd infatuations with the Shelby men, her denial of any romantic feelings, and her steadfast commitment to her work. Vivian, feeling overwhelmed, chose to nod along and abstain from further discussion on the matter.

Unlike Cathy, Vivian found Lizzie Shelby to be a courteous and well-mannered lady, but their interactions didn't spark a deep connection. Lizzie always introduced herself politely and expressed gratitude for Vivian's assistance, which Vivian appreciated. However, the warmth she felt for the Shelby children, Charles and Ruby, didn't extend as deeply toward Lizzie. 

Charles, despite his outspoken nature and quick wit, had a certain charm that Vivian couldn't help but admire. They bantered and connected in their own way. Ruby is an absolute angel. The girl's innocence and kindness resonated deeply with her, and Vivian cherished the moments they spent together. Vivian is hoping that she can spend more time with those kids, perhaps take some more of Francis' tasks on herself to be more of a nanny. She'll ask about it someday.

In those weeks, Vivian didn't find herself missing Mr. Shelby all that much. Whenever he was near, an inexplicable lump formed in her throat, and she couldn't quite decipher why. Perhaps it was the sheer intensity of his presence that felt intimidating.

However, she couldn't deny the occasional moments when her gaze lingered upon his portrait, just as she did with Grace's painting. It was as if she searched for something familiar in those depictions, perhaps a connection to the past. She couldn't help but notice the striking resemblance between Grace and Charles. Vivian bets he misses her.

Observing the dynamics within the Shelby family, especially the palpable distance between Lizzie and Charles, saddened Vivian. The boy deserved better, especially since Mr. Shelby's extended absences left him with an absentee father. It tugged at her heart, and she couldn't help but wish for a more fulfilling bond between them.

Vivian had heard the buzz about Charles's upcoming birthday party, and it was the talk of the household. The anticipation was tangible, with whispers of the event being a grand affair, especially since many of the guests were expected to be gypsies with large families known for their extravagant celebrations.

The maids were abuzz with stories of these grand gatherings, and it seemed like the only topic of conversation in the staff quarters. While Vivian wasn't particularly fond of large groups of people, she knew her role would involve waiting tables and attending to the guests. It would be a demanding task, but she hoped that by immersing herself in the responsibilities of serving, she could distract herself enough to navigate the event successfully.

As the days passed and the birthday celebration drew nearer, Vivian prepared herself mentally for the bustling event, hoping that her focus on her duties would provide a shield against her discomfort in crowds.