The Life of Viscount Downton [Book 1]

LIV

December 31, 1927

Alexander Crawley running down the stairs, with Cleo by his side. He feels somehow energized, and he wasn't sure why

Other than, of course, it was time for the New Year's celebrations in the House. With the exception of the First World War, their family has never failed to mark the New Year with close family and friends, as well as with their staff, before they have their own small celebrations with their families and friends

"Good morning!" he greeted cheerfully, startling only his father, who was busy reading the newspaper

"Oh no," Mary said sarcastically "The Little Prince is back to attack"

"Not quite, but we're getting there" Alex smiles, as he got food from the buffet trays

"Are you feeling better, Alex?" Violet asks

"Much better, Granny. Still not allowed to play around, unfortunately"

"Don't let the children hear that" Edith told him, making them all laugh softly

"The Fellowship are coming today, aren't they?" Tom then inquired

"Yes. And of course, along with their families" Alex replied

"So the Fellowship's back all together again" Rosamund commented

"Oh, yes. All five of us, back together in one place" he smiles at his aunt

"Five? Aren't there just the four of you?" Martha then inquired

"Ah, yes..." he then just remembered that her grandmother hasn't been updated about their group since two years ago "Miss Josephine is now a member of The Fellowship as well, Grandmama"

"Really? I am glad to see all of my grandchildren being modern human beings" Martha then turned to Violet, who across the table from her "Aren't you glad about that too, Violet?"

"Of course, I am" Violet said without hesitation and not looking up from her food "Downton is moving into a new era, after all. And as always, we move along with it"

"Hear, hear" Alex said, raising his glass of orange juice. The others nodded in agreement, while Violet looks on at him, smiling proudly

"Isn't it little Johnny's birthday today, too?" Cora then inquired and looks at her husband

"Is it?" Robert said, before realizing what day it was "Oh my good God, it is Johnny's birthday!"

"Looks like someone forgot their godson's birthday" Alex grins, earning an annoyed glare from his father

"Who is this...Johnny boy?" Martha asked

"Johnny Bates. The son of Papa's valet and mine and Edith's lady's maid" Mary answered "And also my parents' and mine's godchild"

"And I assume you have a gift for him already?" Bertie said

"Of course I do" Mary said proudly, "At least I remember my godson's birthday"

"Suppose I'll head out later, then" Robert grumbled as he stood up from his seat. He then saw Barrow, serving more tea to his mother-in-law "Not a word of this downstairs, Barrow. I...I want this to be a surprise"