Midwinter #2: a (foot)man's best friend (Downton Abbey)
Everyone knew that Thomas’ blood coursed cool and calculating, but even he at least had the decency to feel slightly abashed at the way Isis backed away on his approach, boots crunching in the days-old snow.
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">“Come on, girl. I told you I was sorry, didn’t I?”
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">She gave a high-pitched whimper, then spun two full circles before plopping on the wet ground and covering her nose with her paws. Apparently not all had been forgiven.
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">“Look, here,” he said. “I’ve got something for you. A little treat, yeah?” Isis moved tentatively forward as he squatted down, sniffing at the beefy slab of meat suspended in front of her. Its scent was undeniable, and after a tentative lick she gobbled it up straightaway, nearly nibbling at the tips of the giver’s gloves.
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">“Careful, there,” he warned. “I just bought these gloves.” The floppy head tilted to one side, tongue lolling out in inquiry. “Nothing to worry about. Just decided to also give myself a treat, is all, after my promotion.”
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">He removed one of his new gloves, extended his hand towards the panting face, and allowed for a few minutes of uninterrupted and sloppy licking, all the while pretending to be thoroughly disgusted.
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">“Nasty thing,” he sneered as he wiped the saliva against his trouser leg, but his voice grew a few degrees warmer when he said, “But I couldn’t have done it without you.”
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"">Isis barked. Communication between man and beast is often difficult, but for some odd reason Thomas felt they both had a way of comprehending each other. Isis seemed to understand that the footman was a lonely sort, not much used to companionship or displays of affection, and sensed the sentiment underlying his words.
Thank You.