Work Text:
At the end of November, Demelza entered the room to find Joshua Poldark lying on the floor, apparently unconscious. Panic surged through her as she quickly realized he had suffered a stroke. Concerned for his well-being, she hurried to his side, calling for help while trying to assess his condition. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on her as she feared for the life of the man she cared for deeply.
The festive preparations for Christmas were temporarily halted due to Joshua's hospitalization, leaving his family, Ross, Demelza, and Verity, by his bedside, offering their support during this difficult time. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Sophie quickly stepped up to the challenge and took over the management of the café. With remarkable poise and determination, she organized the daily operations, ensuring everything ran smoothly despite the unexpected shift in responsibilities.
Simon and Daphne hurriedly packed their belongings, their hearts heavy yet relentless, as they prepared to leave their familiar surroundings behind. The lush, rolling hills and breathtaking coastline of Cornwall beckoned them, a picturesque backdrop to a new chapter in their lives. They had received the urgent news that their dear friends Ross & Demelza needed help managing the farm and caring for their family during a particularly trying time.
With their young daughter, Amelia cradled in Daphne's arms, they set off on their journey. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, especially considering Amelia's tender age and the demands of parenthood. Yet, the couple shared a profound sense of duty and unyielding loyalty to their friends.
They envisioned the farm: the sprawling fields of golden wheat swaying gently in the breeze, the quaint farmhouse among the trees, and the smell of fresh earth mingling with the crisp sea air. Knowing they were stepping into a role requiring strength and compassion, Simon and Daphne felt warmth for the community they were about to reinforce. It was not just the farm that needed their care; it was the fabric of friendship and family that they were determined to uphold, ensuring that no one they loved would be left to struggle alone.
This is the story of Joshua's last Christmas with his family and friends.
Violet settled into her chair and sighed, glancing around the room. "That was Simon on the phone," she announced, her tone of concern and relief. Meanwhile, Benedict gently spooned tea into Hyacinth's cup, ensuring she took small sips, while Colin playfully tried to entice Gregory with a bright green Brussels sprout, holding it up like a prize.
Unable to contain her anxiety, Eloise stood up abruptly, her hands clasped together. "Please tell me Joshua is okay," she implored, trembling slightly. "He is alive, isn't he?" The tension in the room grew palpable as everyone turned their attention to her, hoping to provide reassurance.
"He is alive," Violet exclaimed, her eyes shining with relief. "God truly answered my prayers. Simon is eager to organize an extravagant Christmas celebration at the hospital for him. He wants to arrange everything—the decorations, the food, and all the festivities—with family and friends gathered around."
Eloise crossed her arms, a frown creasing her forehead. "That sounds like a goodbye," she said, frustration evident in her voice.
Benedict looked at her with a mixture of concern and seriousness. "Eloise," he said firmly, "please let Mum finish speaking."
"I was thinking we could spend the entire month of December there to help organize everything," Violet suggested thoughtfully, her eyes sparkling enthusiastically. "Daphne has a young baby, and Jeremy must miss Gregory and Hyacinth. And as for dear Sophie..."
Benedict interrupted, concern etched across his face. "What about Sophie? Is she alright?"
Violet turned to him, raising one eyebrow in an assessing manner, hinting at her son's lingering feelings.
"I'm in," Eloise declared with determination. "I can help Demelza and Verity care for Joshua while he's recovering. They could use an extra pair of hands."
"I'm sure they will appreciate that, darling," Violet responded warmly, a smile spreading across her face as she recognized Eloise's willingness to lend a hand.
Colin chimed in, and his enthusiasm was evident. "I'm sure Sophie will be grateful for my assistance in the café. I can also take charge of cooking the Christmas dinner this year. Do we know if he'll still be in the hospital, or are we planning to celebrate at Nampara?" His brow furrowed slightly as he contemplated the logistics of their holiday plans.
___
"I just had a conversation with Violet," Demelza said, her voice filled with warmth as she leaned in to kiss Joshua's cheek softly. Joshua's face lit up at the mention of her name. "My dear Violet," he replied, concern etched in his features. "How is she faring? I trust Anthony isn't causing her any grief; if he is, I'm still fit enough to give him a good telling-off!"
"Demelza smiled as she announced, 'She and the Bridgertons are coming to visit you.'"
Joshua's eyes lit up with excitement. "Oh, I am truly pleased!" he whispered with anticipation. "After Grace, I never believed I would come across another lady with such beauty and loyalty as she did. But with Violet by my side, I feel I am with the most precious flower in the garden."
"And you are the rugged farmer who brings her so much happiness," Demelza remarked with a warm smile. "Ross and I are truly delighted that you've found someone who can restore the joy in your life."
Joshua sighed softly, reflecting on the past. "Grace and she would have made such wonderful companions," he mused. "But I feel ready to reunite with Grace now."
Demelza gently placed a hand on his arm. "Not just yet; you still have plenty of years ahead of you," she whispered, her voice reassuring. "Besides, Jeremy is busy planning a Christmas celebration unlike anything we've ever experienced."
"I certainly wouldn't want to let him down," Joshua reflected, his voice filled with warmth. "You both have brought an incredible amount of joy into my life. Discovering you on that beach that day was truly the best thing that ever happened to our family. It felt like a miracle, a moment that changed everything for us. The laughter, love, and memories we've created since then are treasures I cherish deeply."
"You've been the best dad I've ever had," Demelza whispered, her voice warm as she gently pressed her lips against his frail hand. She could feel the roughness of his skin, a testament to the years of hard work and love he had poured into their family. "And I promise, we are going to have the best Christmas ever this year," she added, her eyes shining with determination and hope.
Joshua looked at her with a faint smile, pride flickering in his tired eyes. With a weak but loving gesture, he patted her hand, his touch conveying a deep affection that words could not express. Though his strength was fading, their bond remained as strong as ever, a comforting reminder of the Christmases they had shared, filled with laughter and joy.
___
"Let's get you dressed," Simon said to Jeremy with a gentle smile as he rummaged through his chest of drawers. He pulled out a vibrant red Christmas jumper adorned with playful reindeer and snowflakes.
"Are we going to see Pops today?" Jeremy asked, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Simon shook his head. "I thought we could visit Father Christmas today. It will be a special occasion since it's Amelia's first time meeting the big man in red. Auntie Verity will be joining us, and of course, Daphne will be there too. I can't wait to see the look on her face when she sits on Santa's lap!"
"Are you ready?" Verity called out to Jeremy as he cautiously descended the wooden staircase, the creaking steps echoing in the quiet house.
"Is Pops home yet?" Jeremy asked, his voice filled with hope and concern as he reached the bottom.
"Not yet," Verity replied softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "The doctors and nurses are still working hard to help him get better. But don't worry—we've planned something special for Christmas at the hospital."
"Promise?" Jeremy asked, his wide eyes searching Verity's for reassurance.
"We've got it all organized," Simon whispered with a conspiratorial grin, pulling Jeremy closer. "Pops will have the best Christmas ever with us surrounding him."
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Jeremy wrapped his arms around Simon in a tight hug. "You are the best uncle in the world," he whispered, a bright smile lighting up his face. "I'm so happy Daddy found you."
Simon gently ruffled the little boy's hair, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Ditto, buddy," he whispered, his voice excitedly. "Now, let's head over to see Father Christmas! I promised your mummy and daddy I would take plenty of pictures to capture this special moment."
___
As Jeremy stepped forward, his heart raced with excitement and a hint of nervousness. The brightly decorated room buzzed with the laughter of children and the soft jingle of bells, but all his attention was focused on the figure before him—Father Christmas himself, with his fluffy white beard and a twinkle in his eye.
Father Christmas leaned forward, a warm smile spreading across his face. "And who do we have visiting today?" he asked in a booming voice that felt comforting and magical.
With a proud grin, Jeremy straightened his shoulders and replied, "I am Jeremy Poldark," feeling important in sharing his name. He gestured towards his side, where Daphne held Amelia, her eyes wide with wonder. "And this is my best friend, Amelia Basset."
"Ho, Ho, Ho!" Father Christmas bellowed joyfully, his belly shaking like a bowl full of jelly. "And what special wishes do you both have for Christmas this year?"
Jeremy glanced up at Father Christmas, his big blue eyes filled with determination. "I don't want any presents," he murmured, his voice almost trembling with sincerity. "All I want is for my Pops to enjoy a wonderful Christmas. I wish he could be free of his health troubles and never have another stroke again. I don't want my daddy to lose his daddy."
His words hung in the air, filled with emotion and genuine love, as Father Christmas paused to take in the little boy's heartfelt wish.
"You are a good boy," Father Christmas said, "I know your pops will have the best Christmas, because he has you." Jeremy smiled at him and hugged him tightly. "Have a wonderful Christmas," Jeremy whispered, "and thank you for all the presents you give all the boys and girls."