After the introductions were made Mama, cousin Isobel and the Crawley sisters provided a tour for the General. Every once in awhile Florence stole a glance at Matthew. He was every bit the soldier as he spoke to the general. Her heart beat wildly in her chest whenever he looked at her. finally the tour was over and they were in the dining room. It was then she discovered that, for some reason, she was at the complete opposite end of the table from Matthew and Mary was sitting beside her. Not wanting to make a scene, she looked at her mother questioningly. Cora mouthed an apology as Florence snuck a glance at her twin who was grinning at her. She should have figured. Mary had supposedly met someone in London but it obviously hadn't gone down as well as she hoped because she hasn't invited him to stay yet. Maybe he was fighting too. "And there's one among you whom I'm afraid of going unnoticed. The person who has been taking care of the needs of the patients quietly and efficiently is Lady Edith," the general said. "Let us drink to her health!"
"Lady Edith," Florence said with a smile.
Before they left, the General gave Florence a look. "Crawley, you have ten minutes," He told him with a smile."
"Thank you, Sir."
Matthew took her hand and took her out back from the library where they shared an absolutely delicious kiss. "Mama had put us beside one another but it appeared Mary switched our spots."
"That doesn't matter now it just meant I could kiss you freely after everyone had gone. He reached up to caress her face. "My darling, are you feeling alright? You seem very pale."
"Just worried about you, and don't tell me not to worry because that's like telling me not to breath. Just keep writing to me and dreaming of our wedding day." She hugged him tightly. "I love you Lieutenant!"
"And I love you."
Their time was up and the two slowly headed to the door, holding hands. Cora gave Matthew a kiss, telling him to be safe, Robert shook his hand and the men drove away.
Cora glanced over at Florence who was a mess of tears. She put an arm over her shoulder and led her to the stairs. "Carson, could we have some tea sent to my room, please?" She asked.
"Of course, Milady."