"Mary, why must you be so rude?" Florence asked. "Papa's cousin dies and all you cared about was not mourning him as a fiancée! Now the new heir comes along and you already push him aside because the world doesn't go your way!"
"Oh shut up, Florence!" Mary said. " We all know you're Papa's favorite! You try to act so smart by pretending you know what is right and wrong with the estate!"
"I pretend nothing, Mary! This is our family seat and home, I'm just doing what I can to help Papa!"
"What in the world are the two of you arguing about?" Cora asked. "I heard you all the way in the nursery. Now step yelling at one another and get dressed before they arrive!"
After the awkward exchange between Mama and Isobel, Cora led them into the drawing room for proper introductions. Smiling at the blush on Florence's cheeks. She was glad she put them beside each other especially because of Mary's attitude. Unfortunately Mary still sent some condescending and rude zingers Matthew's way just as Violet did to Isobel. It angered Cora and brought back memories of her first dinner at Downton.
Florence and Matthew spoke all night leading to her apologizing for Mary's words. He had smiled and waved off her apology. "You don't have to apologize for her."
"Any chance I could take you around Downton tomorrow afternoon?"
"I should like that, Florence," he said with a smile.
"Great, I'll be there around 10 am if that's alright."
Florence felt as though she wee walking on a cloud as she made her way to the steps when Violet sopped her. "Yes, Granny?'
"What are you doing, dear?"
"Going to bed, I'm tired. Why?"
"No, I mean why are you talking to Matthew so informally"
"He's my cousin and I.. really like him. Do I need permission to? Or is he meant for Mary like Patrick was?"
"Please give your sister a chance. She's older than you."
"Older? by what 2 minutes? Goodness Granny. You heard her at dinner. Mary is not interested in Matthew but I am!