DISCLAIMER: All characters and locations in this story belong to Julian Fellowes except from my OC Florence Crawley. This story has been created for entertainment only. Text during the wedding in Italics were taken from a model wedding ceremony in a Church of England church which I believe the Crawley family are (If not I apologise)

AN: Thank you all for your patience this week. I was debating how to proceed with not just the events of this episode but with the events of the final episode and Season 2 in mind. I hope you enjoy what I have decided to go with.

May came round far faster than any of them could have imagined. The wedding preparations had kept Florence very busy even with the help of Isobel and Cora. Florence was confident that everything would go off without a hitch. Her dress was ready. They'd arranged for a morning wedding at Downton's church with an afternoon reception at Downton Abbey. Mr Molesley had kindly found her some spring flowers to put in her bouquet. They'd organised for a professional florist to create bouquet for the aisles in the church and for decorations at the house. The guest list had been sent out. Their family in America were not going to be able to make it but everybody else on their guest list would.

Two weeks before the wedding, Florence was getting her final dress fitting done. This time the seamstress, Mrs Ableton, had made the journey into Rippon to meet her. Today she would be able to walk away with the dress.

Unfortunately, her visit into Rippon coincided with the Liberal rally. Cora had asked Florence to take Sybil with her. They were to get the dress and then they could go to the rally. While Florence agreed with women getting the vote, the last thing that she or Sybil needed was to get in the middle of a riot but her mother had insisted. The liberal rally's always seemed to attract trouble.

For the moment though, Florence could focus on the wedding. Isobel and Cora had both seen designs of the dress but nobody had seen the dress itself. Florence was in love with it and she hoped that others liked it. It was a white A-line dress. It had two layers. The bottom layer was satin. The top layer was lace with an embroidered pattern of flowers. The front was floor length but the lace layer at the back formed a one-foot trail. The dress had an illusion neckline; which was made up of a a semi-sweetheart neckline for the satin and a turtle neckline for the lace. The wrist length sleeves were made from embroidered lace. She had a bridal illusion veil made from tulle. Her hair wasn't done up in the way it will at the wedding but it was up which allowed for the veil to be added into her hair as she tried the dress on.

Florence stepped out from behind the screen to allow Mrs Ableton to look at the dress and make sure everything is in working order. Mrs Ableton's staff, a young girl named Rosy, who had helped her into the dress, held the trail and lay it down neatly behind Florence as she stopped. Sybil was stood with Mrs Ableton. A wide smile and a gasp came from Sybil as she saw Florence in her dress for the first time.

"Oh, Flo. You look beautiful." Sybil said with her large smile.

Florence smiled to her sister, "Do you think Matthew will like it?"

"It's beautiful. He'll love it. Though he would think you were beautiful even if you turned up in a corn sack." Sybil replied with a reassuring smile.

Florence laughed a little.

Florence turned to Mrs Ableton for her professional opinion.

"It does look beautiful, Milady." Mrs Ableton told her, "It doesn't seem to need any adjustments but let me have a closer all-round look and I'll double check."

Mrs Ableton walked around Florence, being careful not to tread on the trail. She reached out briefly as she was walking back around the left side and lifted the veil so she could see the dress underneath clearer. It been on the left side that some adjustments had been made last time but everything seemed good this time.

Mrs Ableton stepped back. "Yes, everything seems okay. How does it feel?"

"Unexpectantly comfortable." Florence replied with a smile.

Mrs Ableton laughed a little. "Okay. We shall get you out and pack up the dress for you."

"Thank you, Mrs Ableton." Florence thanked while taking one last look at herself in the mirror. "It's perfect."

Florence allowed Rosy to lead her back behind the screen and helped her get back into her day clothes. She felt very under dressed once back in her day clothes after wearing the wedding dress. Florence couldn't help but watch the dress longingly as it was packed away.

Sybil laughed, "Don't worry, Flo, you'll be back in it soon."

"Not soon enough." Florence replied. "Part of me hates being so close to the wedding date. It was nicer when it was months away because you can understand the wait when it's a few months away, but right now it's so close but not quite there. It's frustrating. The past week seems to have dragged by and I bet the next two will be the same."

"Don't worry M'lady. We all feel the same way a few weeks before our weddings." Mrs Ableton said, as she approached the dress all wrapped up and ready to go.

"Thank you Mrs Ableton." Florence replied.

"I hope you have a lovely day." Mrs Ableton wished as Florence and Sybil prepared to depart.

Florence didn't have to worry about paying, the money had already been sorted by her father. Florence placed the dress into the bag that she had brought with her. She and Sybil would go to the rally now and meet up with Branson.

Sybil led the way to the rally, far more excited for it then Florence was. Florence was a bit hesitant to attend a rally in person especially when tensions around the elections were a rather high. Florence was also aware that Robert did not know that they were going. Cora had sent them but all three of them knew that Robert would not approve of them going. That was what made Florence so uncomfortable.

The crowd near the speakers was uncomfortably tight and pushy. Florence and Sybil had somehow ended up in the middle of the crush. It made Florence very uncomfortable and she clutched her bag tightly to her chest.

"Last June saw Emily Davidson crushed to death beneath the hooves of the King's horse. Will the summer of 1914 prove as fatal for the hopes of women? It cannot." The speaker yelled over the jeers and heckling from the crowd, mainly the men though there were a few women. "This historic by-election can be the first step of the journey to women's equality."

"If you're so keen on women's rights, let a woman speak!" a woman cried from the right of Florence and Sybil.

"Why stop there? Let's get the dogs up and listen to them bark!" a man jeered somewhere in the crowd.

The crowd began shoving and throwing things at the speaker and Florence could quickly see this crowd turning violet. She gripped Sybil's arm and pulled her a little closer to her. "Sybil, it's time to go. Now."

Florence attempted to pull Sybil away by Sybil was still focussed on what the speaker was saying. "Women… women are thrown out…"

Suddenly Branson appeared. "Are you both all right, M'ladies?"

"Isn't it exciting?" Sybil asked back with a large smile.

"I personally think it's time for us to go." Florence replied, trying again to pull Sybil away but yet again Sybil resisted wishing to stay for the whole thing.

Florence felt a hand on her left shoulder. She turned to see Isobel stood there.

"Florence, Sybil. I think it's time to let Branson take you home." Isobel yelled to be heard over the crowd.

"Not yet." Sybil protested.

"Yes, Sybil. Now." Florence argued back, cautious about the crowd which is growing progressively pushier.

"I agree with Florence. I applaud your spirit in coming and I will applaud your discretion when you leave." Isobel said, mainly to Sybil.

"But you agree with everything he says?" Sybil asked.

"I do, my dear. But I also know if anything happens to either you or Florence, Branson will lose his place." Isobel replied, wisely saying the one thing that was guaranteed to get Sybil moving. She wouldn't want the guilt of getting Branson fired on her conscience.

"Better safe than sorry, M'lady." Branson added from Sybil's other side.

Branson began leading Sybil away. Florence was following closely behind with Isobel bringing up the rear.

"The car's just here." Branson said as he pushed a path clear for the women to walk through.

"Women must get the vote, mustn't they, Branson? Why does the prime minister resist the inevitable?" Sybil asked as the escaped the crowd.

Florence allowed Branson and Sybil to move ahead to the car while Florence paused just outside the crowd to speak to Isobel.

"Do you need a ride Isobel?" Florence asked, her bag still clutched tightly to her chest.

"No, thank you, dear. You focus on getting yourself and Sybil home safely." Isobel replied.

Florence nodded. "Thank you very much for your help, Isobel. Send my love to Matthew."

"I will." Isobel said as she left.

Florence turned around and saw that Sybil was inside the car. Branson was waiting by the door to help her inside. Florence climbed inside with a quick 'thank you' to Branson.

They were a good way home when the silence in the car was finally broken.

"I hope you do go into politics. It's a fine ambition." Sybil said to Branson, catching Florence's attention. She knew that Branson was political but she wasn't aware that he actually wanted to enter politics.

"Ambition or dream?" Branson asked.

"In this instance, is there a difference? You can achieve both and fail at either. A person is only as limited as their own self-belief." Florence commented honestly. "If you believe you will, then you can."

"If I do, it's not all about women and the vote for me nor even freedom for Ireland. It's the gap between the aristocracy and the poor and…" Branson said but pausing.

"And what?" Sybil asked, prompting him to continue.

"I'm sorry. I don't mean to speak against His Lordship." Branson commented.

"Why not? You obviously don't approve of him." Sybil asked in response.

"Not as a representative of an oppressive class, but he's a good man and a decent employer." Branson continued, clearing the air from its own oppression.

"Spoken like a true politician." Sybil commented with a smile. She shared an amused glance with Florence.

"What do I look like? Could you sneak us round the back? I should hate for Papa to see me like this." Sybil asked.

"That's probably wise." Florence agreed.

Branson continued the drive towards the house. Branson pulled the car up around the back, allowing Florence and Sybil to slip inside the house through the back door. They walked through the downstairs of the house with Florence leading the way. They only stopped when they almost bumped straight into William.

"Oh. Excuse me, M'ladies." William said as he stopped himself so not to bump into them.

"William, will you find Anna and tell her Sybil and I have gone upstairs?" Florence asked William, already starting to move towards the stairs that would lead them upstairs.

"Of course, M'lady." William replied.

Florence and Sybil quickly continued on their way upstairs to await Anna's help to get them ready for dinner.

That evening at dinner, Violet had joined them. The seven of them were seated around the table. Florence had been placed next to Robert with Edith on her other side. Mary, Cora and Sybil sat on the other side of the table and Violet sat on the other side of Robert.

"I gather you went to hear the Liberal candidate today?" Robert asked looking between Florence and Sybil.

"There were several speakers actually." Sybil corrected. "He was the last."

"Did he speak well?" Robert asked calmly.

Florence wisely stayed silent, clearly readying the agitation on Robert's face. She shifted slightly from nervousness. She had finished her meal so she was nervously sipping her glass of water.

"I thought so." Sybil replied with a nod of her head.

"But there was quite a brouhaha." Robert commented, again his voice deceptively calm.

"You know what these things can be like." Sybil replied which caused Florence to wince. That wasn't the wisest thing to say.

"I do." Robert said, his voice still calm. However, he then banged his cutlery down onto his plate angrily before continued with a more aggressive tone and volume, "Which is why I am astonished you should not feel it necessary to ask my permission to attend! I assume this was Branson's scheme."

Both Sybil and Florence protested, "No."

Before they could say anymore, Robert continued looking between the two young women that his annoyance was aimed at, "I confess I was amused at the idea of an Irish radical for a chauffeur, but I see now I have been naive."

"I told Branson to take Florence and Sybil." Cora suddenly told Robert, her voice quiet in compared to Robert's.

"What are you saying?" Robert asked angrily.

"Florence need to go to Ripon on another matter. I asked her to take Sybil and then asked Branson to drive them. I thought it would be sensible, in case there was trouble." Cora explained.

Sybil quickly spoke again before Robert could speak. "I want to do some canvassing. The by-election isn't far off."

"Canvassing?" Violet asked in disbelief.

"Oh, it's quite safe. You're in a group and you knock on doors." Sybil explained, her smile still firmly in place.

Florence was sat in seat, still nervously sipping her drink every now and again. She could see the growing anger on her father's face.

"Yes, I know what canvassing is." Violet commented sternly.

Florence thought she had better speak to defend Sybil, after all she was already attached to that ship. She may as well sink willingly rather than just tagging along. "I think that Sybil is…"

"What? Are you canvassing, too? Or would you rather take in washing?" Violet interrupted sternly.

"I was only going to say that Sybil is entitled to her opinions." Florence said, continuing what she was going to say before Violet interrupted.

"No, she isn't until she is married. Then her husband will tell her what her opinions are. The same for you." Violet said.

It was surprisingly Mary that laughed in disbelief, "Oh, Granny. Things are charging."

"I knew you wouldn't approve." Sybil commented quietly.

"Which presumable is why you all hid your plans from me." Robert stated angrily.

"Does this mean you won't be presented next month?" Violet asked towards Sybil before turning to Florence, "Or you married in two weeks."

"Absolutely not" Florence replied as Sybil also said, "Certainly not. Why should it?"

"Well, I doubt I'd expect to curtsey to Their Majesties in June, when I'd been arrested at a riot in May but then I'm old. Things may be different now" Violet said in response to Sybil's question.

"She hasn't been arrested and it wasn't a riot." Cora argued in Sybil's favour.

"But it might be next time." Edith argued back from the other side of Florence.

"There will not be a next time." Robert said firmly ending the conversation.

Sybil and Florence shared a glance before Sybil sighed sadly.

A few days later, on the Monday morning, Florence was walking into the library when she heard Robert and Sybil talking on the other side. Florence began to browse the books. Both Robert and Sybil were completely oblivious to her presence in the library.

"There's a meeting of my borstal charity. I've missed two, and I simply must be there." Sybil pleaded with her father.

"You'd have to take one of your sisters with you." Robert replied.

"Don't make me." Sybil pleaded. "Those meetings are deadly at the best of times, and you know what they're like when they're bored." Sybil pleaded.

"Why are all your causes so steeped in gloom?" Robert asked in confusion.

"Because it's the gloomy things that need our help. If everything in the garden's sunny, why meddle?" Sybil asked in response.

Florence smile at Sybil's response. It was very mature and wise.

"Well, I agree with that. Talking of sunny, are you looking forward to your coming Season?" Robert asked, changing the subject.

Sybil's smile grew. "I am, rather. So, it's alright. I can go?"

"Not without one of your sisters." Robert replied.

Sybil's smile sunk. Florence smiled before calling out, "I'll go. I can sit through one of Sybil's boring meetings."

Both Robert and Sybil turned to Florence in surprise. Robert shook his head in disbelief before commenting, "You need to start announcing yourself. You will give me a heart attack one day."

Florence smiled, taking her chosen book from the shelf and walking over. "Sorry Papa. But I'll go with Sybil."

Robert then turned to Sybil, "Will you be late?"

"I think we'll miss dinner." Sybil replied.

"Well, remember to tell Branson to take a sandwich for himself." Robert told her.

Sybil smiled and left the room. Florence shook her head before following her out of the library.

Florence picked up her sunhat and took her book outside. She walked to her favourite bench on the grounds and took a seat. The bench was tucked away from the house, hidden by a tree and some bushes. It was not long before she heard footsteps walking down the gravel path. Florence looked up from her book to see Matthew walking past.

Florence closed her book and called out to him, "Hello. What are you doing here?"

"I'm searching of your father. Carson thought he was outside." Matthew replied, glancing around.

"He's in the library. At least he was a few moments ago." Florence answered his initial query. "What do you need him for?"

Matthew moved to join her on the bench, "Nothing much. I've had an inquiry about one of the farms."

Matthew removed his hat. He pressed a gentle kiss to Florence's lips before he sat down on the bench next to her. "So, what's new at the big house?"

"Sybil, mainly. She's discovered politics and Papa is not very happy about it." Florence told him with a smile towards him.

"Yes. Mother said that she saw you both the other day. I do admire Sybil's passion, though." Matthew commented.

"Of course. As do I. But I recommend you do not say that to Papa." Florence commented with an amused smile.

Matthew chuckled, "No. I wouldn't dare. And the wedding preparations? How are they coming along? Are we going to be ready to tie the knot a week on Wednesday? Mother tells me that everything is in hand."

"Indeed it is. Your mother has been an amazing help." Florence replied. "Has she spoken to you about living arrangements after the wedding?"

Matthew shook his head, "No, why?"

"Well, I was thinking that perhaps after the wedding, we should live in Crawley house for a while." Florence suggested.

Matthew looked to her in confusion.

"Not forever." Florence reassured him. "I know it is still difficult for Mary. Even Mama and Granny have given up fighting the entail now I'm set to marry you, which means Mary will get none of it. I know that she has had time to get used to our engagement but being engaged and us officially tying the knot is slightly different. It's more… official. I just thought it would be nice for Mary and for us to separate ourselves until she has time for it to settle in properly. I spoke to your mother about it briefly and we thought it would be possible but we obviously didn't agree on anything. And I haven't spoken to Mama or Papa about it either."

Matthew reached out and took Florence's hand. "You are entirely too thoughtful for your own good. I will gladly have you live with mother and I for a while after the wedding. We have a whole lifetime to live in Downton."

Florence smiled, "I'll speak to Mama and Papa then and get it settled."

Matthew nodded, "Now, I must go and speak to your father."

Florence nodded in acceptance as Matthew stood.

He leaned down and gave her a kiss. "I'll see you soon."

Matthew walked backwards for a few paces with a farewell smile on his face before turning and going the rest of the way forwards.

On Friday evening, Florence and Sybil were driven to Ripon by Branson. Florence couldn't help but notice that Sybil looked very excited. In fact, she looked a bit too excited for a gloomy charity meeting.

"Where to from here, M'lady?" Branson called back when they reached the centre of Rippon.

"What do you mean? We've arrived." Sybil called back causing Florence to look over to her in confusion.

"The meeting's in one of these buildings here?" Branson asked for clarification.

"This is the meeting. We're here for the counting of the votes." Sybil told them both.

"Sybil. We can't. Papa forbade it." Florence protested as Sybil climbed out of the car.

"I don't understand. I thought that…" Branson started protesting before Sybil interrupted.

"Don't be silly. You didn't think I'd miss my very first by-election?" Sybil asked, looking between Florence in the back and Branson in the front.

A horn honked behind them.

"I don't think His Lordship would approve." Branson replied, agreeing with Florence's earlier comment.

"Let me worry about him." Sybil commented as she turned to enter the passageway to get to where the votes will be counted.

"I have to park the car. Wait there." Branson asked as the same time Florence yelled, "Sybil! Get back in the car."

Sybil turned back to Branson and Florence. "Really, Branson, I thought I gave the orders. And Flo, we can't be good girls all the time."

Sybil then turned and walked off. Florence quickly jumped out of the back. She moved to Branson's window. "I'll go after her. Park the car and then come and help me get Sybil out of here."

Branson nodded. "Of course M'lady."

Florence quickly rushed through the tunnel that Sybil had gone down, looking around and trying to find her. However the crowd was dense and Florence couldn't immediately see where Sybil was in the crowd. Florence hated crowds and the size and volume of the crowd made her heart pound and her hands begin to sweat.

The votes were beginning to be read out. "The Honourable Joseph Gerald Ansty for the Conservatist and Unionist Party: 6,363 votes."

It was loud as the crowd, yelled and jeered. One of the loudest calls was for, "Votes for women" from a group of suffragettes in the crowd.

In fact, Branson had caught up with her before she could spot her.

"Can you see her, Branson?" Florence called.

"I think so." Branson replied, before leading the way through the crowd.

The votes continued to be announced as they tried pushing through the crowed. "Martin James Dillon, for the Socialist Party: 2,741 votes."

As they reached Sybil, Branson immediately asked, "Can we call it a day, M'lady?"

"Don't be silly. This is the moment we've come for." Sybil protested.

"Sybil, we are leaving right now." Florence yelled.

"Trevor Andrew Morgan, the Liberal Party…" the announcer began.

Branson however began yelling over the noise, "This lot aren't interested in politics. They're spoiling for a fight."

"Branson is right, Sybil. We need to leave now." Florence yelled. "So, come now, or Branson and I will drag you away."

"894 votes. I hereby declare that the Honourable Joseph Gerald Ansty is duly… is duly elected to serve as Member of Parliament." the announcer called and that was all it took for the crowd to get even more aggressive.

"Sybil we need to leave." Florence yelled, taking Sybil's arm.

"Florence!" Florence heard her name called. She turned and spotted Matthew pushing his way through the crowd to them. She couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief at the sight of him.

"What on earth are you doing here?" Matthew yelled towards all three of them.

"I couldn't miss this. Couldn't you?" Sybil asked, absolutely absorbed into the vote announcement.

"I could" Matthew replied.

"I don't like the look of this M'lady" Branson said, looking behind him.

Florence glanced back also and saw what Branson had saw. A group of men had entered the crowd. They didn't look happy. They looked like they wanted to cause trouble and they were heading straight towards the four of them. Florence felt an immediate sense of dread and edged towards Matthew which wasn't unnoticed by him.

"Look, look, look. I'm on your side. Don't cause any trouble; you have to believe me" Branson yelled as a few of the men began pushing him around.

Matthew moved Florence towards Sybil and away from him as another man approached him.

"What's your problem then, Mr. La-di-da?" the man jeered.

"My problem is you." Matthew replied.

"Oh aye." The man said in amusement before throwing the first punch to Matthew's jaw.

"Matthew" Florence cried taking a step towards them.

Matthew threw one back, which pushed the man back and unfortunately straight towards Florence and Sybil. Florence lightly pushed Sybil out of the way and the man bashed straight into Florence. Florence fell backwards, spinning as she fell. She smashed her head straight into a glass bottle on a table. She fell to the floor out cold.

Matthew, Branson and Sybil quickly rushed to her.

"Florence!" Matthew called. He reached out to the side of the face but when he felt something wet, he pulled his hand away to reveal blood. "Oh god. No."

"Oh no." Branson called.

Sybil was close to tears beside them as she looked to her sister. She couldn't help but think that this wouldn't have happened if it wasn't for her. She brought Florence here on a rouse, ignored her warnings and ignored her instructions to leave.

"Help me." Matthew said as he lifted Florence's arm over his shoulder, before picking her up completely.

Branson led Sybil in front of him and began leading them all to the car. "This way."

Branson led the group, clearing a path, thought he didn't need to do much once people saw that a woman had been injured. They cleared a path for him. Branson led them all the way to the car.

"Sybil, get inside." Matthew instructed.

Sybil climbed in with her eyes wet. Matthew climbed in behind, carrying Florence in. Branson stood behind Matthew to make sure he didn't fall backwards while he was climbing up with Florence in his arms. Matthew sat down, laying Florence on his lap. He manipulated her head so it was lying on his shoulder. Her legs were stretched out over Sybil's.

Branson shut the door and climbed into the front. He quickly pulled away and began the drive back to Downton.

"Go to Crawley house." Matthew instructed. "My mother can look at her."

"Of course, sir." Branson replied.

Florence was still out cold when they arrived at Crawley house. Branson quickly got out of the car and opened the door for Matthew as he carried Florence out. Sybil followed closely behind before she turned to Branson.

"Branson. Go to the house and get Mary. Nobody else, just Mary." Sybil instructed.

"Of course, M'lady." Branson replied before leaving to head to Downton Abbey.

Matthew burst into the house and into the reception room where Isobel had been sat. She looked up startled when Matthew burst in. She then gasped as she saw that he was carrying a limp Florence.

Isobel jumped up and waved to the couch, "Put her here. What happened?"

"There was a fight at the count in Rippon. She fell and hit her head. It's bleeding." Matthew told her as he lay Florence down on the couch.

Sybil and Molesley had entered the room behind him. Sybil was still looking to her sister in shock. The blood was still trickling out of cut on the side of Florence's forehead, just underneath her hair. Isobel quickly moved to look but there was so much blood to be able to see underneath the hair.

"Molesley, get a bowl and some cotton." Isobel instructed.

Molesley quickly rushed to do just that. When he returned, Isobel used it to clean up the extra blood so she could see the cut.

"It looks like just a cut. She shouldn't need stitches but it will sting a little." Isobel said.

"And the blood?" Sybil asked. "She's bled a lot."

"Head wounds always do." Isobel explained.

It was then that Florence groaned. Matthew knelt down beside his mother, taking Florence's hand in both of his. Sybil stepped forward so she was leaning over the back of the couch.

"Florence, love?" Matthew prompted.

Florence's eyes opened and she sighed in relief. "Matthew."

Matthew smiled in relief, bring her hand up so he could kiss it. "Thank god you're okay."

Isobel continued to wipe the blood away while applying pressure the cut to try and get it to stop bleeding. They heard the door open. All of them except Florence looked up to see Mary enter through the door. Mary took one look at a pale looking Florence on the couch before breath out, "My God."

Mary moved around the couch to kneel down besides Matthew. She looked to Florence in concern. "Oh, my darling."

"I didn't know what to do, so I had Branson bring her here." Matthew told Mary.

"Quite right. Mama would have fainted if she'd seen her like this. As for Papa…" Mary replied leaving the end open.

Florence looked to Isobel as she put some form of chemical on a cotton wool piece and said, "This will sting a bit, but it's stopped bleeding."

Florence couldn't help the wince as Isobel pressed the chemical against her cut. It did sting a bit.

"Did you know they were planning this?" Isobel asked, over to Matthew.

"Of course not." Matthew replied.

"Well, what were you doing there?" Isobel asked.

"I was working late. I'd forgotten it was election night or I wouldn't have stayed." Matthew answered.

"I'm so grateful you did." Florence said weakly from the couch as Isobel stood and allowed Matthew to move further up towards her head. Matthew let go of her hand and instead began stoking her hair back, avoiding her cut and the area around it. Mary moved up as well, taking Florence's hand.

Mary sighed before saying, "I could ring Branson's neck."

"What was he thinking?" Matthew asked in agreement to Mary's statement. "I'm afraid it will cost him his job."

"No." Sybil protested. "It wasn't him. He didn't know. I told him, and Florence, that we were going to a committee meeting. When they realised what it was, they tried to get me to leave. I'm sorry. This is all my fault."

"You'll have to stick up for him. Both of you. Because Papa will skin him alive." Mary warned them.

"Are you feeling strong enough to go home?" Matthew asked gently, stroking her hair.

"I think so, if you'll take me." Florence said.

Matthew smiled and offered a hand to help her up. Mary let go of her hand and stepped away so she had room to get up. Matthew helped Florence up to her feet.

"Here, wear my coat to cover the blood. You'll look more normal." Mary said, removing her coat and placing it over Florence's shoulders.

Matthew gently placed an arm around her shoulders while saying, "Lean on me, love."

Florence leant on Matthew, somewhat glad for a reason to be able to walk this close to him before marriage. Matthew aided her to the car where Branson opened the door. Matthew assisted Florence in before climbing in beside her.

"Are you sure you are okay?" Matthew asked.

Florence nodded, reaching up to gently stroke the cheek that the man punched, "I'll be fine. How are you?"

"I'm fine, my love" Matthew reassured her.

Florence saw Branson, who was waiting by the car door for Sybil and Mary, and called out, "Branson, are you okay?"

"I'm fine, M'lady. For now at least." Branson replied.

"I won't let Papa throw you out for this Branson. It wasn't your fault." Florence reassured him gently.

"Thank you, M'lady." Branson replied thankfully.

Mary and Sybil exited the house and approached the car. There wasn't really enough room for all four of them so Matthew lifted Florence and placed her to sit across her lap. Mary and Sybil were then able to climb in and take a seat.

Branson drove them back to the house, opening the car door when they arrived. Mary and Sybil climbed out first. Florence was lifted off of Matthew's lap before he helped her down from the car. Matthew tucked Florence back under his arm so he could assist her up into the house.

Cora, Edith and Robert met them in the entrance hall. Mary took Florence from Matthew while saying, "I'll take her."

"Take her to her room. I'll be along in a minute." Robert instructed the women.

Cora came to Florence's other side and five women ascended up the stairs. The women led Florence to her room and settled her down so she was sat on her bed. Cora and Sybil sat down either side of her. Mary stood by the bedframe banister and Edith was stood nearby.

Robert arrived in the room a few moments later after getting a description of what had happened from Matthew. He paced for a few moments before turning to Sybil and Florence.

"How dare you?" He growled angrily. "How dare you disobey me in this way!"

"Robert, I'm sure…" Cora tried to intervene.

"Are you so knowledgeable about the great world that my instructions are to be set as nothing?" Robert yelled.

"Papa, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I disobeyed you and dragged Florence there but I'm interested. I'm political. I have opinions." Sybil yelled back.

"Of course I blame Branson." Robert exclaimed.

"I don't think that's fair." Mary argued from beside Sybil.

"We had none of this. None of it. Until he set foot in our house. I suppose I should give thanks that he hasn't burnt the place down over our heads." Robert growled out in anger.

"Branson didn't know anything about it until we arrived there." Sybil yelled.

"She's right Papa. He didn't know." Florence added.

"He leaves tonight." Robert declared.

"If you punish Branson, I'll never talk to you again. Never." Sybil yelled.

"It wasn't Branson's fault Papa." Florence replied more calmly than Sybil.

"I don't believe this is Branson's fault. Truly, Papa." Mary added in support of her sisters.

"Blame me." Sybil demanded, standing up from the bed.

"I do blame you!" Robert yelled.

"Robert, can we do this in the morning? Florence needs rest." Cora spoke up, trying to break up the argument and give everyone time to cool down before they approached the topic again.

"If I find tomorrow that Branson is missing, I'll run away. I warn you" Sybil insisted.

"Sybil." Florence sighed. That wasn't helping the argument in any way.

Robert laughed with a scoff, "Oh, and where would you go?"

"Well, I can't think now, but I will go, and you'll be sorry." Sybil threatens.

"I should be sorry. Very sorry indeed." Robert said calmer and in agreement to what she said.

Robert left the room after that clearly seeing that they were not going to achieve anything that evening. Mary gave Florence a hug, relieved that she was okay, before leaving after Robert. Sybil apologised to Florence before leaving herself. Edith left with Sybil with a concerned glance to Florence.

"Are you alright, my darling?" Cora asked, smoothing Florence's hair down so she could have a better look.

"I'm fine Mama. Is Matthew still here?" Florence asked.

"I believe so." Cora replied.

"I know it is improper to go and see him in such a state but may I go down?" Florence asked imploringly to her mother.

Cora nodded. "I think it can be forgiven considering you will be married in a few days."

Florence smiled and stood. She left the room and headed downstairs. She entered the room as Mary said to Matthew, "We couldn't let you starve."

"Absolutely not." Florence agreed as she walked up to them.

"Should you be up?" Mary asked, moving to Florence's side.

"I feel fine. Thank you, Mary." Florence replied.

"Well, perhaps then, you should keep Matthew company as he eats." Mary suggested with a smile. It was the more sincere smile that Mary had ever given when it came to Matthew.

Florence smiled in return. Perhaps Mary will accept Matthew and Florence's marriage sooner than she realised. Matthew offered Florence his arm so he could guide her to the dining room. Florence took his arm and they walked together.

One table place was set up with a plate of food with a silver dish over it and a bowl of strawberries to the side. Matthew sat Florence down before sitting himself down in the seat that had been set for eating.

Matthew picked up a decanter of wine and said, "We can drink to your and Sybil's safe return."

"Why not? I'll call for a glass." Florence said, beginning to stand.

Matthew reached out with his free hand and placed a hand on her arm, gently guiding her back down. "Never mind that." Matthew poured some into the proper wine glass and placed it in front of Florence. "Here." He then poured some in the water glass that had also been left.

Florence grinned. "You're still not very fastidious about doing things properly. I told you that this wouldn't change you."

Matthew chuckled, "No, you are right."

Matthew pulled the lid off of the plate of sandwiches. "I don't think I have ever actually asked whether you are at all political? This is the second political event I've either seen or heard of you being at."

Florence answered honestly, "Yes I am, but with a hung parliament, it's hard to get excited about a by-election. Nothing will change, whoever gets in. Sybil is still too new and eager to realise that."

"Yes, you are quite right." Matthew agreed.

Florence smiled before changing the conversation, "Thank you for coming to Sybil's and my rescue today. It was very brave of you."

"How could I possibly do anything else when you are in danger?" Matthew argued with a smile on her face.

Florence reached out to take his free hand. "Well, I still really appreciate it."

Matthew flipped his hand around so it took hold of hers. "Well, I couldn't let you escape when I am so close to having you as my wife."

Florence chuckled, "It wouldn't be escaping. Somebody would have to drag me away to stop me from marrying you. I should tell you that I spoke to Mama and Papa about our living arrangements after the wedding."

"And what did they say?" Matthew asked, taking a sip of wine.

"They agreed. We agreed that I wouldn't go to the season this year. They suggested that we move to Downton when they return from London. That will give us until July." Florence told me. "It will also give the staff chance to prepare some proper quarters for us. After all, we can't sleep on the corridor that I share with my sisters."

Matthew nodded, "Of course. That sounds perfect. I'll have some space made in my rooms at home for us. It's not long now. Five days and you will be Lady Matthew Crawley."

"Those five days cannot move fast enough." Florence whispered looking deeply into Matthew's eyes.

Wednesday finally arrived.

For once Florence was awoken by somebody else rather than waking up on her own steam. It was her mother that came to wake her in the morning. Anna entered alongside her carrying a tray full of food. It seemed like Florence had woken up late as Cora was already ready for the wedding. Though that didn't really surprise Florence, she had been up late last night with a mixture of excitement and nerves.

"Good morning, my darling. It's time to get ready." Cora said kindly. "But first, have your breakfast. Anna and I will sort everything else out."

Florence did as Cora asked and started eating her breakfast. Cora moved to the dressing table and began arranging all of the hair pieces that Anna would need to do Florence's hair for the wedding. Anna briefly disappeared, only to return with Florence's wedding dress. Anna hung it up, knowing that they weren't ready for it yet.

Once Florence had finished eating her breakfast, Florence made her bed three time before being sent for a bath with clear instructions not to get her hair wet. When she returned, Anna turned her attention Florence's hair. She put it up in a complicated and intricate fashion, leaving a perfect spot for the veil to go on. Anna assisted Florence do her make up before allowing Florence to put in her own earrings and put on her necklace.

Next Florence was laced into her corset and she put on her garter onto her right leg. Florence stepped into her dress and Anna quickly fastened it at the back. Cora was stood nearby looking to her daughter in adoration.

"It's beautiful, my darling." Cora said. "Now you have some time. I'll go and check on your sisters and make sure that they are making their way to the church. Come down when you are ready."

"Of course, Mama." Florence replied with a wide excited smile.

Cora smiled, "Good luck, darling."

Cora slipped out of the room while Anna placed the veil into Florence's hair.

"There you are, M'lady. All ready." Anna announced once the veil was in Florence's hair.

"Thank you very much Anna." Florence said with a smile.

"You're welcome, M'lady." Anna replied. "Are you ready to go down?"

Florence had another look in her mirror and took a deep breath. Was she ready to become Mrs. Matthew Crawley. She nodded. Yes, she was. "Yes. Let's go."

Anna led the way down the stairs, announcing Florence's arrival to Robert and Carson who were stood at the bottom of the stairs. "The bride is ready."

Both men looked up to see Florence walking down. She paused at the last landing on the stairs. Both men were stood looking at her silently. She was getting a little nervous from their looks but she refused to show it.

"Do I look okay?" Florence asked.

"You look beautiful, Flo, darling." Robert said.

Florence smiled to him and turned to Carson for his opinion. "Carson? How do I look?"

"Like a Goddess, M'lady." Carson replied.

Florence beamed. "Thank you, Carson."

Carson nodded his head and turned to walk out with Anna following closely behind. The two of them would get onto the wagon with some of the other staff and arrive before Robert and Florence to the church. Carson would go inside the church but Anna will wait outside to help make sure the train on the dress was laid down properly after Florence stepped out of the carriage.

Florence stepped down the last few steps of the staircase. Robert stepped to meet her.

"Are you ready, my darling Flo?" Robert asked.

Florence nodded. "Yes."

"And are you happy?" Robert asked, wanting to be sure.

"Happier than I've ever been in my life. And you?" Florence asked in return.

"I am both happy and sad. Happy that my daughter is so happy and with Matthew no less but sad because you are growing up. Sometimes I still see the little girl that liked to sit on my lap with her teddy bear while I did my work." Robert answered honestly.

Florence smiled. "You know we almost went ten years without you mentioning that."

Robert chuckled, "Just be glad I did not mention it to Matthew.

Florence fake gasped, "You wouldn't!"

"Oh, I could but I won't." Robert replied seriously before offering her his arm.

Florence took it and allowed Robert to lead her out of the hall and out of the house. Florence smiled as she saw some of the staff that were not able to join them at the church, like the kitchen staff, stood at the side of the house to see her off. She waved to them happily.

There was a horse drawn carriage that awaited them outside to take them to the church. The driver and footman helped Florence up into the carriage before Robert followed her in.

The carriage ride to the church was silent between Florence and Robert. As they arrived at the village, Florence was stunned to see the lines of people that were waving and cheering as they past. Florence smiled and occasionally waved. The crowd were waving flags in their hands, cheering merrily. The crowd converged behind them and followed them to the church.

As they pulled up at the church gates, they were met by Anna. Robert and Anna assisted Florence out of the carriage and a cheer went up in the crowd that had gathered when they caught their first glance at the bride. Anna sorted out the trail and then hurried up to the church so she could take her seat before the ceremony began

Florence and Robert paused just outside the church. Robert turned to Florence.

"Ready?" he asked for the third time.

Florence nodded while wondering if he was as nervous as she was about her getting married.

Robert led her in in a slow walk through the centre aisle of the church. Florence knew that her family were on the front row of the church but she only had eyes for Matthew who was stood at the front.

For most of her walk, Matthew was facing the front but then the temptation got too much and he turned around. His eyes widened and his heart skipped a beat as he saw her. She was beautiful. Not that she wasn't always beautiful to him, but today she just seemed to glow in her happiness.

When Florence reached the front, Robert kissed her cheek and took one step back. Florence and Matthew shared overjoyed and excited looks.

The Vicar began the ceremony. "In the presence of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we have come together to witness the marriage of Matthew Reginald Crawley and Florence Elizabeth Crawley, to pray for God's blessing on them, to share their joy and to celebrate their love. Marriage is a gift of God in creation through which husband and wife may know the grace of God. It is given that as man and woman grow in love and trust they shall be united with one another in heart, body and mind, as Christ is united with his bride, the Church. The gift of marriage brings husband and wife together in the delight and tenderness of sexual union and joyful commitment to the end of their lives. It is given as the foundation of family life in which children are born and nurtured and in which each member of the family, in good times and in bad, may find strength, companionship and comfort, and grow to maturity to love."

The Vicar pauses and Matthew and Florence share a happy and loving look before the Vicar continues. "Marriage is a way of life made holy by God and blessed by the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ with those celebrating a wedding at Cana in Galilee. Marriage is a sign of unity and loyalty which all should uphold and honour. It enriches society and strengthens community. No one should enter into it lightly or selfishly but reverently and responsibly in the sight of almighty God. Matthew and Florence are not to enter this way of life. They will each give their consent to the other and make solemn vows, and in token of this they will each given and receive a ring. We prey with them that the Holy Spirit will guide and strengthen them, then they may fulfil God's purposes for the whole of their earthly life together."

The Vicar pausing again before saying only to the congregation at the church, "First, I am required to ask anyone present who knows any reason why these persons may not lawfully marry, to declare it now."

There was silence so the Vicar continued to Matthew and Florence, "The vows you are about to take are to be made in the presence of God, who is judge of all and knows all the secrets in our hearts; therefore if either of you knows a reason why you may not lawfully marry, you must declare it now."

Neither of them said anything so the Vicar continued again, this time to Matthew, "Matthew Reginald Crawley, will you take Florence Elizabeth Crawley to be your wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honour and protect her, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall life?"

"I will" Matthew replied, his voice strong and confident.

The vicar turns to Florence, "Florence Elizabeth Crawley, will you take Matthew Reginald Crawley to be your husband? Will you love him, comfort him, honour and protect him, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall life?"

"I will" Florence replied, her voice equally strong and confident.

The Vicar turns to the congregation again, "Will you, the families and friends of Matthew Reginald Crawley and Florence Elizabeth Crawley, support and uphold them in their marriage now and the years to come?"

"We will." The congregation as a whole replied.

The Vicar addressed the whole room. "I invite you now to pray." There was silence for a few minutes before the Vicar began speaking in prayer. "God our Father, from the beginning you have bless creation with abundant life. Pour out your blessings upon Matthew and Florence that they may be joined in mutual love and companionship, in holiness and commitment to each other. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, on God, now and forever. Amen."

"Amen" Everybody in the room echoes.

A reading was made by Sybil. Matthew and Florence had chosen for Romans 15.1,5-7, 13 to be read. "We who are strong ought to put up with the failing of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Each of us must please our neighbour for the good purpose of building up the neighbour. For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, 'the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me'. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcome you, for the glory of God. May the God of hope fill you will all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

This was followed by a hymn.

Once the hymn was finished the Vicar spoke to Matthew and Florence. "Matthew and Florence, I now invite you to join hand and make your vows, in the presence of God and his people."

Florence and Matthew turn to face each other. Matthew take's Florence's right hand in his.

"I, Matthew Reginald Crawley, take you, Florence Elizabeth Crawley, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God's holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow." Matthew said, repeating the words from the Vicar.

Matthew lets go of her hand. Florence then retook Matthew's right hand.

"I, Florence Elizabeth Crawley, take you Matthew Reginald Crawley, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God's holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow." Florence said, repeating the words from the Vicar.

Matthew and Florence drop their hands.

The Vicar turns and asks for the rings. Robert stepped forward to hand the rings over.

"Heavenly father, by your blessing let these rings be to Matthew and Florence a symbol of unending love and faithfulness, to remind them of the vow and covenant which they have made this day through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." The Vicar said in prayer.

"Amen." Everybody echoed.

The Vicar gives Matthew Florence's ring. Matthew gently takes Florence's hand and slipped the ring onto the fourth finger on her left hand. He held the ring there as he says, "Florence Elizabeth Crawley, I give you this ring as a sign of our marriage. With my body I honour you, all that I am I give to you, and all that I have I share with you, within the love of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit."

Matthew lets go of Florence's hand. Florence takes Matthew's ring from the Vicar and then gently takes his hand. She placed the ring on her fourth finger of his left hand. She holds it there as she says, "Matthew Reginal Crawley, I give you this ring as a sign of our marriage. With my body I honour you, all that I am I give to you, and all that I have I share with you, within the love of God, Father, Son and the Holy Spirit."

Florence lets go of Matthew's hand.

The Vicar address the congregation. "In the presence of God, and before this congregation, Matthew and Florence have given their consent and made their marriage vow to each other. They have declared their marriage by the joining of hands and by giving and receiving of rings. I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife."

Matthew and Florence smile widely to each other and there is no mistaking the love in their gazes. The Vicar joins their right hands together and says, "Those whom God was joined together let no one put asunder."

The Vicar instructs Matthew and Florence to kneel before him and so they do. The Vicar then begins to bless the kneeling couple. "Blessed are you, O Lord our God, for you have created joy and gladness, pleasure and delight, love, peace and fellowship. Pour out the abundance of your blessing upon Mathew and Florence in their new life together. Let their love for each other be a seal upon their hearts and a crown upon their heads. Bless them in their work and in their companionship; awake and asleep, in joy and in sorrow, in life and death. Finally, in your mercy, bring them to that banquet where your saints feast for ever in you heavenly home. We ask this through Jesus Christ your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, not and forever. Amen."

"Amen" the congregation repeated.

The Vicar then addressed Mathew and Florence. "God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, bless and preserve and keep you; the Lord mercifully grants you the riches of his grace, that you may please him both in body and soul, and, living together in faith and love, may receive the blessing of eternal life. Amen."

"Amen." Everybody echoes.

A hymn plays as the Vicar invites Matthew, Florence, Robert and Isobel into the back room where they sign the marriage certificate. Matthew signs it first, followed by Florence. Robert and Isobel sign as the witnesses to the union. Matthew and Florence give each other a look of absolute happiness and love.

The five of them returns to the congregation. Matthew and Florence return to their place for the prayers. The Vicar leads the first prayer. "Faithful God, holy and sternal, source of life and spring of love, we thank and praise you for bringing Matthew and Florence to this day, and we pray for them. Lord of life and love; hear our prayer."

"Hear our prayer" is echoed by all present.

"May the marriage be life-giving and life-long, enriched by your presence and strengthened by your grace; may they bring comfort and confidence to each other in faithfulness and trust. Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer." The Vicar continues with the second prayer.

"Hear our prayer" is echoed again.

"May the hospitality of their home bring refreshment and joy to all around them; may their love overflow to neighbours in need and embrace those in distress. Lord of Life and love: Hear our prayer." The Vicar says the third prayer.

"Hear our prayer" is echoed again.

The forth prayer is spoken by the Vicar, "May they discern in your word order and purpose for their lives; and may the power of your Holy Spirit lead them in truth and defend them in adversity. Lord of life and love: hear our prayer."

"Hear out prayer."

"May they nurture their family with devotion, see their children grow in body, mind and spirit and come at last to the end of their lives with hearts content and in joyful anticipation of heaven. Lord of life and love: hear our prayer." The Vicar says the second to last prayer.

"Hear our prayer."

The Vicar addressed the whole room. "As our saviour taught us, so we prey."

"Our Father in heaven, hallowed by your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the Kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen." The whole room spoke the Lord's prayer.

The Vicar turned to the room and addressed it as a whole for the last time. "God the Holy Trinity make you strong in faith and love, defend you on every side, and guide you in truth and peace; and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen."

"Amen." The room echoed.

Matthew and Florence turn to face one another, before Matthew offered her his arm. She took it with a large smile and he proceeded to lead her back down the aisle towards the door. They knew that their families were following closely behind. Matthew and Florence paused just outside of the church, in full view of everybody that was still gathered outside and everybody that was still in the church. They left enough room between them and church for those people in the church to be able to get out and slip around them.

Matthew turned to Florence. He reached out and lifted her veil from over her face.

"Mrs. Matthew Crawley, I love you." Matthew said before sweeping in to give her a kiss.

A loud cheer went up from the crowd that had gathered. Matthew and Florence pulled away and waited for their 'congregation' to come out of the church fully and gather around them. They throw confetti as Matthew kisses Florence again.

Matthew and Florence are the last to leave the church and make their way back to Downton for the reception. The reception meal was wonderful as expected. Mrs Patmore and her kitchen assistants out did themselves. Speeches were given but Matthew and Florence were eager to return home and be in each-others company and only each other's company. Isobel was staying at Downton Abbey for the night, meaning that only the staff were going to be in the house.

When the reception finally came to an end and everybody but the main family had left, Robert had Branson bring the car around for Matthew and Florence. Florence said many thank you's and goodnights until Matthew guided her out. Matthew assisted Florence in getting into the car.

At Crawley House, Matthew helped Florence out of the car and Branson left soon after. Matthew walked Florence up to the door but stopped her just before it. He opened the door and turned back to her.

"Are we really going to do this?" Florence asked amused.

"Of course." Matthew replied, lifted one of Florence's arms over his shoulder and then lifted her bridal style.

Matthew carried her through the house threshold, both of them laughing merrily ready to start their married life together.

AN: Thank you to all my reviewers: Animexchick, twinklegoesthesea, Sparky She-Demon, and Babyi.G. It fills me with so much joy to hear that people are enjoying my writing.

AN: I hope to get the next and last episode up within the week.

AN: I'm currently unsure about whether to complete this story with just season 1 and create a new story for season 2 or change this story to include all the seasons. I have cover pictures for all of the seasons that I do want you guys to see. Maybe I could change the cover picture on this story as I go through the seasons. What do you guys think?