“Elisabeth, how would you feel about sharing that sort of accommodation with me if Andrew and Win are gone a long time?” Josephine asked her sister-in-law.
“I would love it. I’ve always lived in the country. I don’t want to leave this region. I know Andrew will need to live near London when he begins to read the law, but until then, I surely don’t want to be alone," Elisabeth replied.
“Then we’ll follow that plan for the immediate future,” answered Win.
Josephine looked lovingly at her husband. “Still, Win, I suspect you haven’t a great desire to spend the rest of your life in a modest cottage. Not after having grown up at Winthrop Manor,” she remarked.
“No. I wouldn’t want that forever. We’d keep the cottage as a nice place for a quiet get-a-way and probably buy an old country house in this region for our permanent home.”
“I feel badly that because of me, you’ll be losing your long-anticipated opportunity to marry and raise your own family at Winthrop Manor, at least until your father passes away, and you become the next earl. Perhaps your parents will stop this foolishness and allow us to move back to your true home.”
“I’m not counting on that, darling. It’s all right. You mean more to me than anything.”
“Still, it seems so horribly unfair. I don’t want to sound bitter, but I really am not very fond of Oliver, and it angers me to think he will enjoy the privileges, and you won’t."
“Father can do whatever he chooses. We won’t be destitute. In fact, in the long run, I have a suspicion I may enjoy my newfound freedom. We’ll see what the military brings. If possible, I might even return to school to pursue a new career.”
“I guess I’m fortunate not to have been tied up with a future pre-planned from the beginning of my life, simply because I'd been born into an aristocratic family.” Andrew smiled. "I’ll be doing what I’ve always dreamed—practicing law. So I guess there are advantages to being a simple man with no title.”
“That’s really true, Andrew. I’ve always disliked the fact that I didn’t have the choice about choosing my own career."
Roderick had left the parlour and gone to the kitchen. He returned and announced that the cook had prepared a nice roast for dinner. It was ready to eat anytime they wished. They had not eaten since leaving Gretna Green, and everyone’s eyes lit up at the sound of a beef roast. Roderick led the way to the dining room, where the table was set beautifully.
“How lovely, Uncle,” said Josephine. “This was so thoughtful of you.”
“Indeed, is certainly was,” added Win.
Andrew and Elisabeth heartily agreed, as everyone took a place at the table. During the meal, the discussion moved back to all of the details of the wedding, and Roderick listened, obviously happy to hear about their trip.
Win covered his mouth and yawned. “Forgive me. I guess the drive back from Gretna Green tired me more than I realised. Dinner was marvellous. I’m filled to capacity and a bit tired.”
“Yes, I think we probably all are. Would you understand if we excused ourselves and retired for the night, Uncle?” Josephine asked.
“Of course not. I’m sure you are all ready to go to your rooms. Come, let me show you where you’ll be staying,” he responded.
He led the way to the stairs and up, where he showed Win and Josephine to a very nicely arranged bedroom. Andrew and Elisabeth would be ensconced in the room across the hall. Win was surprised that each room even had its own bath. He and Josephine closed the door, after once again thanking Roderick for his hospitality and bidding everyone goodnight.
“This is truly lovely, darling,” said Win. “I’m surprised we have a private bath. These older cottages generally aren’t that well-equipped.”
“Uncle Roderick had this one refurbished quite a while back. Don’t forget, Andrew and I came to live with him.”
“Yes, of course, that makes sense,” answered Win.
Josephine found herself more relaxed and even eager for the wondrous desire she’d experienced on their wedding night. She was actually a bit impatient for the moment when her husband began to kiss her in what she would once have considered forbidden places. The routine she had followed the previous night was repeated, as she bathed, brushed her hair, and performed all of her regular nightly rituals. Then, Win repeated the routine he had followed on their wedding night. As they crawled into the lovely bed, she immediately snuggled into his arms.
“My little pet, you seem to want to be close to me even more than you did last night,” Win murmured.
“Yes, I love you so, darling, and I realised this afternoon while we were at Winthrop Manor how much you have sacrificed for me.”
“Sweetheart, I’d give up the world for you. You mean everything to me. Don’t you dare ever forget that.”
He began the familiar little nibbles on her neck she had already grown to love. His hand traveled down over her body again, and she knew what was going to happen next. He touched the soft fur between her legs, and she felt desire grow. Then he slipped her nightgown over her head and began to kiss her breasts. She was growing more and more passionate. She had mostly let him take charge the previous night, but now she felt a need to touch him in places she had never dreamed of, and it shocked her to discover what men were truly like when unclothed. She reached her hand between his legs, and he groaned in obvious pleasure.
“Does that make you happy, darling?” she whispered.
“Josephine, you’ll never believe the ecstatic way you make me feel,” he answered.
She was delighted that she was pleasing him as much as he had her.
“I hope I can always make you this happy, Win. I feel as though we are truly one person now.” She wasn’t uncomfortable with her desire to touch her husband, showing deep love for him in ways she would never have dreamed possible. He’d been correct. The act of making love did indeed grow more intense.
When they finally fell asleep, he lay with his back to her, and she spooned her body into his. It was so meaningful to feel utterly secure and loved by such a special man.
CHAPTER NINETEEN
Andrew and Win drove into Winthrop-on-Hart the next day to enquire about options available for them in the military. They came away knowing a great deal more. In a country defined by class, only "gentlemen" from the upper and middle classes could hope to become new officers in 1914 or 1915. Win knew with certainty he would qualify for such a rank, but since Andrew didn’t have an aristocratic background, although he had attended Oxford, there had been some concern about whether he would be permitted to take part in Officer Training. They were told that Britain's public schools and universities were the main recruiting grounds for the new leaders needed, en masse, to manage the hundreds of thousands of new soldiers in the ranks. Both Andrew and Win had graduated Oxford, which meant they had superb educations. Thus, Win was very relieved to learn that he and Andrew would be able to train together.
Young officers were taught how to control and care for men and how to command their respect. Each had to lead a platoon of around thirty men, many older and from much tougher backgrounds than themselves. Training camps had cropped up all over England. Some of those were designated for officer training.
First, a young man needed to volunteer his services; then, immediately, he was sent to a camp for sixteen weeks of intense training. In just four months, a trainee would have to master the complexities of drill, the intricate etiquette of army life, and the strict rules of military discipline. An officer's prime concern was to set an example for his men and adhere to the duties of obedience, cleanliness, sobriety, and honesty. When training was complete, the young men would emerge as second lieutenants. It all sounded infinitely better than having to be an infantry soldier. Nothing about war appealed to either Win or Andrew, especially since they were newly married, but they made up their minds to enlist in officer training immediately.
They returned home from their visit to the recruiting office and passed the information on to Joseph
ine and Elisabeth. Naturally, neither young lady was enthusiastic about losing their husband, even temporarily, to the war. Nevertheless, they both had pride in the men and admired their patriotism and courage.
While Andrew and Win had been in the village, Roderick had driven the ladies to the piece of land he’d recommended for the planned construction of Josephine’s dream cottage. The spot was indeed perfect. If the cottage were situated properly, it would sit where the sun would shine nearly all day upon what would be the front-garden area, and there would be an enormous, old elm tree in back. A lovely, small stream ran through the property, and dozens of willow trees bent over the water, creating a quiet, serene setting. Both Josephine and Elisabeth adored the spot. As soon as their husbands returned, they were implored to accompany their wives back to the splendid building site. Josephine was already picturing her dream cottage. Win agreed that it truly was perfect land to build upon.
When they were back at Roderick’s cottage, all sat at the old, round table in the dining area, sketching ideas for the home they imagined. Everyone made a suggestion. Before the evening ended, they had a good outline from which any architect could design a true blueprint. They all made a pact to never reveal the locale to Oliver. Neither Win nor Andrew wanted anyone at Winthrop Manor to know where their wives were living while the men were away, serving their country.
****
Germany had already invaded Belgium and parts of France. German troops were prevented from taking Paris and were defeated at the Battle of the Marne. Win and Andrew enlisted on September 10. There had never been any question as to whether they would take such a step. The only question had been when.
They called their wives and Roderick into the drawing room, sat them down, and broke the news as gently as possible. Josephine and Elisabeth had hoped and prayed they would never reach such a day, but as the streets had become more and more empty of young men, they knew their husbands would be leaving.
“When will you go?” asked Josephine, trying very hard not to break down.
“Quite soon, darling. Andrew and I visited the recruiting office again today. There is beginning to be a severe shortage of officers. We’ve both enlisted. Next Monday, we’ll be sent to the Salisbury Plain for training. The time required for our introduction into the military will be sixteen weeks." Win smiled. “I don’t think either of us is too anxious to become acquainted with machine guns, rifles, bayonets, or bombs. Nonetheless, those pieces of machinery will be our constant companions and may very well save our lives.”
“My God, it’s such a short time,” cried Josephine. "You will be given at least a short furlough before you’re sent abroad, won’t you?”
"I would hope. Of course, you both know we’ll write as often as possible. Your letters will be our lifeline home. Just knowing one from you is on its way will mean the world to both of us,” said Win.
“Darling, do you intend to tell your parents about this?” asked Josephine.
"At first, I thought I wouldn’t, but now, I think it’s the only decent way to behave. No matter how narrow-minded they’ve been, I don’t want to leave for battle without seeing them. I’ll pop over to Winthrop Manor tomorrow for a quick chat.”
“I’m proud of you. Just because they’ve acted like fools doesn’t mean you’re one, too. I know they love you with all their hearts. Going to see them to say goodbye only proves what a good person you are,” Roderick said.
As the five of them had sat in the parlour, Roderick had listened quietly to the entire conversation. “Your parents should be proud to have raised such a fine young gentleman. I would have given anything to have been blessed with such a son. Unfortunately, my sweet wife, Thelma, was never able to conceive a child. That’s probably one reason that Andrew and Josephine have always held such a very special place in my heart.”
“Oh, Uncle, what a lovely thing for you to say,” uttered Josephine.
“I want you to think of me as a son, Roderick. I know you're Josephine’s uncle, but you’re also a father figure. I wish I could have known her parents.”
“You would have thought they were the creme of the crop. I know they would have thought you were.”
“That’s a fine compliment, Roderick. Thank you.”
Josephine, Win, Andrew, Elisabeth, and Roderick sat up until quite late, discussing the eventuality of war. Win wanted the cottage to continue its construction, and Josephine was glad. It would provide something to keep her mind off of Win’s absence. Elisabeth seemed every bit as excited, as well as downhearted to be saying goodbye to Andrew.
It was growing late, and the foursome knew there wouldn’t be many more nights spent in each other's arms. It was already Thursday. Only four nights together. Andrew suggested it was time to turn in.
“I’ll prepare a jolly, fine breakfast tomorrow and every day following, until we have to bid farewell for a time. From what I hear, the military food leaves a lot to be desired.” Roderick laughed.
***
Win was in his wife’s arms before the door was completely closed. It was rather cold in the room. After the warmth of the parlour with the lovely fire roaring, both Josephine and Win shivered. From the moment he’d learned he would be leaving for the Salisbury Plain, he'd wondered how long it would be before he held her again. The uncertainty of war also contributed to natural trembling. Win was terrified at the thought of losing his life or a limb in the war, but he wasn’t about to admit it. The last thing Win wanted was for Josephine to know of the dreadful anxiety he harboured.
“Oh, my darling. How can I bear being separated from you? What if this war goes on and on and on?” Win whispered, tucking his head against her breast.
“Sweetheart, you’ll be home soon,” Josephine said. “Is there any chance the United States will join in this venture?”
“That’s what we all hope. It hasn’t gone on long enough yet, but I would think the Yanks will prove to be loyal allies. I’m sorry if I’m worrying you, Josephine. I don’t mean to. For just a moment there, I felt a bit of anxiety. I’m sure everything will turn out for the best.”
“But of course you’re anxious. Do you know what sort of situation you’ll be going into? Is there heavy fighting going on?”
“From what I read and hear, the Brits are about to find themselves in a wretched stalemate known as the war of attrition.”
“What does that mean?” Josephine questioned.
“Basically, it marks the beginning of a nightmare called trench warfare. Right now, the Battle of Ypres is supposedly beginning. Trenches are starting to be built in France. At the conclusion of the battle, as I understand it, there will as be a line of trenches that run from The North Sea to the French-Swiss border.”
What a mess, Josephine thought. In just a few days, her husband would leave, and neither of them had any idea when they might see each other again. Complicating matters even further, Josephine, although pitifully uneducated about such matters, suspected she was pregnant. She’d had no monthly curse since she and Win had married. She’d said nothing to Win, not wishing to put an extra burden on him, especially at a time when he was about to leave to fight a war. She suspected that her husband knew infinitely more than she did about women’s cycles. She had a rudimentary knowledge of how the process worked, but no one had ever explained everything to her. She had gone back and forth in her head, trying to decide whether she should say anything to Win before he left, or wait and book an appointment with Dr. Drew, so she would know for certain before saying anything to her husband.
They kissed, passionately, but before their amorous activity progressed any further, Josephine made the decision to discuss her conundrum.
“Darling, I need to tell you something,” she began.
“My pet, I have a hunch I know what you’re about to say. Do you have a suspicion that you might be expecting a baby?” Win asked. “Be honest with me. I know there’s been nothing to interrupt out lovemaking since we married.”
“Aren’t you the per
ceptive one?” She giggled. “That’s exactly what I want to discuss with you. I haven’t visited a physician, but I do suspect I’m pregnant. I wasn’t trying to keep it from you. I just need to have it confirmed by a doctor.”
“How far along do you think you are?” he asked.
“We were married August 4. It’s now September 22. I suspect I conceived on our wedding night. So I’m probably just a bit over six weeks. It could be a false alarm, since my monthly isn’t very late.”
“Let me ask you a few questions. Perhaps I can help you to determine if you really are going to have a baby. Don’t be frightened, Josephine. If you are expecting a child, it will be wonderful news.”
“Yes, but we didn’t plan on having a baby so soon. Especially with the war and all. It frightens me to think I might be expecting, and you won’t be here with me.”
“You wouldn't be all alone. There’s your uncle and Elisabeth. Who knows? This foolish war could be all over by the time a child would be born.”
“What were you meaning to ask me?” Josephine enquired, snuggling next to him.
“Have you noticed any other feelings that denote pregnancy?”
“I’m not certain what they’d be. I’m awfully naive when it comes to this topic, as you know.”
“Yes.” He laughed softly. “Have you experienced any nausea?" he asked. “Especially in the morning?”
“No. Not really. Perhaps for a few days, but nothing severe,” she replied. "I assumed it was nerves about our wedding and such.”
“Are your breasts tender?”
“Yes, they are. Is that a sign? I’ve wondered why they seem so uncomfortable.”
“Have you gained any weight? Especially in the abdomen?”
“Not much. So perhaps it is only emotional. Do you think I am expecting a baby, Win?”
“I think it’s a possibility. I don’t mean to embarrass you, darling, but were you always quite regular with your monthly?”
“Yes. Very. Always. That’s what alerted me. Oh, Win, I’m so ignorant about these things. I was too young for my mother to go into any detail with me. She did explain the rudimentary aspects about where babies come from and such, but she had no idea she wouldn't live to tell me everything. I feel rather ill-informed, to say the least. I just thought I haven’t been because my body underwent changes—you know. Um, well, I’m not a virgin anymore. I thought that might make a difference.”
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