Robert waited anxiously at the altar for Cora to arrive. James stood beside him and couldn't help but notice Robert's strange behaviour.
"Robert are you sure about what you are doing? Once you say I do and the Priest pronounces you both man and wife there'll be no going back" James said rather bluntly trying to show Robert his future reality.
"Yes I am absolutely positive James. This is the right decision for all the family and the future of Downton. I must do this and I will marry Cora, today" Robert replied adamantly.
James simply nodded. "Very well Robert"
Meanwhile in the first row of pews sat Lord and Lady Grantham.
"I still stand by what I have said, this wedding should not be happening. Miss Levinson is unworthy of being Robert's wife and future Countess" Violet spoke quietly but still her tone had a pinch of sharpness.
"Well I think Miss Levinson is just what Robert needs. A honest, dependable woman who can aid Robert with the running of Downton. You forget my dear, that it is Miss Levinson's dowry that will safe the estate from bankruptcy and keep the Crawley name going". Patrick answered.
"When did you become so naïve Patrick. This woman is unfit to be a Crawley let alone a Countess"
"I guess when I married you dear" replied Patrick, quick witted. Violet raised her eyebrow, astounded by her husbands remark.
Outside of the Church waited Cora along with her Mama, Papa, brother Harold and her friends Betsy, Delta and Beatrice.
Martha was busy fussing over Cora.
"Cora, do stand up straight, don't slouch and smile!" Martha said whilst examining her daughter.
"Martha, do stop fussing. Everything is perfectly fine. There's no need to worry. Just go inside and sit down, we will be shortly" Isidore said trying to keep his Wife calm.
"Very well me and your brother shall go, but first I must say something to Cora"
Cora was caught of guard and looked slightly unnerved as to why her Mama wished to speak to her.
"Yes what is it Mama?" Cora asked innocently.
Martha took hold of Cora's left hand and held it in her own. "I always knew that from a very young age that you were destined for great things. Today is one of those things and I am so very proud of you Cora"
What Martha said really resonated with Cora. It actually sounded heartfelt.
She simply embraced her Mama. "Thank you Mama" she whispered into her ear for only her to hear.
Martha and Cora parted. Harold led Martha in towards the church and out came Rosamund.
"Arghh Cora, I came to wish you and my silly brother the best of luck. I would of waited until after you are married but everyone will want a piece of the happy couple. Plus I wanted to be the first"
She kissed Cora on the cheek and then headed back inside.
Isidore came and appeared at Cora's side.
"Are you ready my dear?"
Cora paused for a moment.
"I've never ever been more ready than I am right now" beamed Cora.
YOU ARE READING
Downton Abbey. An Ideal Marriage
RomanceA first meeting between a 20 Year Old American Woman and a uprising young soon to be 5th Earl of Grantham. Robert is pressured by his uptight and snooty mother and his wise father to marry to save their family estate and reputation. Miss Cora Louise...
