Downton Abbey - The Story of Emma Barrow

New York (July 1922)

AN: I want to thank all of you for your comments. I am delighted that you love the story as much as I do. Updates will not be quite as regular during the summer because I like to be outdoors. However, I won't keep you waiting too long for a new chapter. Furthermore I have recently learned that Rob James Collier will be returning to his role as Thomas Barrow for the third movie! The third movie will be released next year in September! I am really looking forward to it! I hope you enjoy the chapter.

"Emma," greeted Rose warmly as the car pulled up next to the 10-year-old. The window was wound down and Rose had half-leaned out. "I'm on my way to Ripon. Would you like to join me?"

"I'd love to, my lady, but I have to go to school. My dad wouldn't tolerate me missing it."

"Really? That's a shame," replied Rose, pulling a disappointed pout.

"I must be off, or I'll be late."

"I can give you a ride," offered Rose, opening the back door of the car. "Come on, Emma."

Emma hesitated for a moment, but the temptation was too great. She got into the car and settled onto the soft leather seat. "Thank you, my lady," she said politely.

"No problem, Emma. We'll see if we can persuade your teacher to give you the day off," said Rose with a mischievous smile.

Emma could hardly believe she was once again riding in Lady Rose's car. The journey to the school was short. When they arrived, both got out and walked into the school building together. The other children, including Arthur and Katherine, stared in amazement as they saw Emma walking alongside Lady Rose. They were speechless when they noticed Emma had stepped out of the car and was now walking side by side with a lady.

In the staffroom, Rose knocked on the door and stepped in. Emma stayed in the corridor. She didn't want to enter the staffroom at all. The teacher, Mrs Bunting, looked up in surprise when she recognised Lady Rose. "My lady, what a surprise. How can I help you?"

"Good morning," Rose began politely. "I have a request. Could you grant Emma Barrow the day off?"

Mrs Bunting pulled a face and hesitated, "Well, that's an unusual request, my lady. But if you insist..."

"I would greatly appreciate it," said Rose with a charming smile.

Mrs Bunting eventually nodded. "Very well, my lady."

Rose returned with a broad grin on her face. Emma beamed with joy.

"Off to Ripon," said Rose cheerfully, leading Emma back to the car. Arthur and Katherine still looked dumbfounded as they saw Emma getting a day off just like that. She felt like she was dreaming as she sat back in the car and they drove towards Ripon. "Thank you, Lady Rose. It means a lot to me."

"It's my pleasure, Emma," said Rose with a smile. "Shopping is much more fun with company."

"Do you have any idea where we should start?"

Rose gave her a mischievous look. "Well, I thought we could start at my favourite hat shop. Maybe you'll find something nice for yourself."

Emma nodded eagerly. "That sounds wonderful."

The drive to Ripon flew by, and Emma could hardly sit still with excitement. The town greeted them with its bustling activity. As they got out of the car, Rose took Emma's hand and led her through the busy streets.

They entered an elegant hat shop, and Emma marvelled at the variety of colours and shapes. Rose tried on a simple but stylish hat with a wide brim and a feather on the side. "What do you think, Emma?" she asked as she turned in front of the mirror.