Liverpool

Cora's mother's heart ached when Sybil and Sybbie left Downton to join Tom's brother in Liverpool. Nevertheless, she was proud of her daughter for choosing what was necessary for her family to be happy. Trying to stay cheerful, Cora reminded herself and everyone else that Liverpool was only a train ride away from Downton.

Still, Mathew worried he'd never find an estate agent that shared his vision, and Robert grumbled constantly that Tom had made their baby unhappy. Cora hoped that the holiday at Duneagle would help them both relax.

OOOOOOOOOO

Yet, their first night at Duneagle, Robert still grumbled and fretted as he entered the room Cora had been assigned. "And Branson wouldn't even let Sybil ride first class when they'd traveled to Liverpool. Wasn't riding in first class relaxing today, Cora?"

She sighed as she waited for him in bed, wishing she didn't have to discuss this again. But then, it was probably better than when Sybil had moved to Ireland, and they'd struggled to communicate. "Yes, the train ride was nice, Robert," she conceded, hoping to calm him.

"And Sybil wasn't even allowed that!" Robert said raising his voice again. "The life that Branson has forced her into…how dare he?" He threw his dressing gown on an empty chair with the same force as if he were swinging a cricket bat.

Cora sighed. "I know Sybil hoped to stay nearby, but you know as well as I do that no one can force our spirited stubborn daughter into anything."

Robert didn't respond, which meant he knew Cora was right and didn't wish to admit it. Instead, he climbed into bed and turned off the light.

Laying in the dark for several moments, Cora finally said, "You'll have a day of stagging with Shrimpie tomorrow, which I know you enjoy, so why don't you focus on that. And the Gillies Ball this weekend will be fun for everyone." Mary loved reeling more than any other dance and young Rose had enjoyed herself last year. And Cora's body tingled with excitement about dancing with Robert. She adored his touch, and even reeling was a wonderful way for them to do so in public without being judged.

Eager for his touch now, her hand reached for his arm, squeezing gently.

"And please try to remember Sybil isn't rejecting you," she said softly, not certain she should bring this up again but knowing it needed to be said. "She simply chose a different life, but she will visit if we ask her do so."

Robert still didn't answer, but his hand on top of hers, squeezing in return, spoke louder than words ever could for Cora.

OOOOOOOOOO

Robert's actions for the rest of the week spoke louder than words, as he was more relaxed after spending his days stagging. Just as importantly, he didn't grumble constantly about Sybil's decision. Cora was a bit less relaxed at Duneagle, as Susan's company grew more tiresome every year, but she did enjoy the scenery and the mountain picnics. Besides, young Rose was much friendlier than her mother.

And the Gillies ball caused everything to be worth it, as always.

OOOOOOOOOOOO

Still, everyone was glad to return to Downton after the ball, and before Cora knew it was the end of September and time for Sybil's birthday. Determined to correct not being able to see her last year, Cora immediately planned a trip to Liverpool for her daughter's twenty – fifth birthday.

Robert still struggled with Sybil's decision to move to Liverpool, especially with all the other changes around him, so he still refused to go. But at least he admitted Liverpool was safe enough for his wife to spend a day and even said goodbye to Cora at the train station.

OOOOOOOOO

A couple of hours and luncheon later, Cora exited the train at Liverpool and hauled a cab to Sybil's flat. "Hello, Mama," said her daughter as she answered the door. She was dressed plainly, in a simple blue cotton dress with no corset. But she wore a bright smile that caused her to look beautiful, even with her short, modern haircut.

"Hello, Sybil," Cora said, giving her a big hug as she entered her home. It was a small home, with a sitting room, a few chairs and a bright green rug in the center. Off to the corner, Cora could see other rooms which she assumed were bedrooms and a kitchen on the opposite side. She tried not to stare, but she hadn't expected her daughter's home to be so sparse. In the distance, she could also hear metal tapping, and she wondered how the baby handled the constant noise.

Robert would find it offensive, that Sybil lived this way, but Cora focused on how happy she appeared. "Happy birthday," Cora said warmly, still eyeing the different surroundings despite herself, and trying not to question the noise. "This is for you," she said, handing Sybil another embroidered handkerchief with her married name stitched on it.

Despite living a very different life, Sybil still smiled at the handkerchief. "Thank you, Mama." Placing it in her pocket, she then looked back at her mother. "Would you like to sit down with a cup of tea, or would you rather take Constance to the park?"

Cora felt her smile spread from ear to ear and joy exploded from her chest. "Of course, I wish to see my grandbaby!"

OOOOOOOOOOO

Soon, the three of them were walking through a small park, and Sybil and Cora took turns pushing a simple stroller. " She's so big," Cora couldn't help but stare in amazement at Sybbie. When she'd last seen her granddaughter, she was little over a month old. Now the baby was almost three months, and even learning to make sounds. "Yes, Sybbie. You are big, yes you are," she said in higher voice as she bent over to get a closer look at her adorable granddaughter.

"Her name is Constance, Mama," Sybil said with a sigh.

"But she truly does look just like you, Sybil." Cora said, still gazing at the little girl as she cooed at her grandmother. "And see, she likes it," Cora added as the baby continued to coo in response.

Sybil shook her head.

"Edith has become a journalist," Cora said deliberately changing the subject. "She's writing a column for The Sketch and spending a lot of time in London." She pushed the stroller again gently as she gazed at Sybbie.

"Edith told me something about that before we left Downton," said Sybil. "I'm so glad she chosen something that's right for her, no matter what Papa says."

Her dismissal of Robert hurt Cora like a cut across her cheek. Sighing, Cora looked directly at her youngest daughter. "I wish you wouldn't be so hard on your Papa; he's still struggling with all the changes around him. Mathew has finally found an estate agent that agrees with his vision, but your father still isn't happy about it." Cora was still trying to gently explain to Robert that there were a lot of new innovations to farming that Mathew's inheritance should take advantage of, but it was difficult. And the way Mathew explained it to her husband didn't help; he needed to be more respectful of Robert.

Returning her mind to Edith, which would be more important to Sybil Cora said out loud, "But fortunately for Edith, Granny was on her side, and no one can argue with her."

Sybil grinned and laughed in response to that.

They walked for a few more moments, and Cora finally relinquished the stroller to her daughter. Then she asked, "So how are things going for you in Liverpool?"

Sybil nodded, her short hair blowing in the breeze. "Tom is happy, and he and his brother work well together. I've settled in as well, as it's a lot like the life we led in Ireland. I admit, sometimes I still miss working at the hospital." Cora nodded in understanding. There were times she still missed overseeing the convalescent home, too. "And sometimes it's frustrating, not to be able to speak to anyone for most of the day. Constance is growing, but she still cannot talk, much less have a conversation."

Cora stared at Sybil, feeling a bit guilty. It had never occurred to her that might be a problem for her daughter. "We can all visit you even more often," she promised. Cora would explain it Mary, Edith, and even Robert as soon as she got home.

Sybil sighed. "I appreciate that Mama, but you don't need to worry so much." She smiled lovingly at her baby and pushed the stroller again. "It's also more rewarding than I ever expected, to care for Constance full – time. Even if we'd stayed in Yorkshire, I'd accepted that she would need a nanny part – time. But here…" Sybil's smile widened, and her eyes sparkled with joy. "I was the first person to see her smile. I was the first person to hear her make a sound and watch her hold her head up on the rug. And when Constance is upset, she almost always reaches for me, because she knows she can depend on me."

She pushed the stroller again, and Cora didn't say anything, thinking about her daughter's words. When her daughters were little, Mama often told Cora she spoiled them too much, spending so much time in the nursery. Still, she'd accepted a nanny, considering it was the way things were done in England and her other duties as viscountess. Besides, motherhood was so overwhelming when her babies were first born.

But Cora had never truly paused to examine what she'd given up by employing a nanny. Would her daughters, especially Mary, have been closer to her if she'd raised them herself? Out loud, she forced herself to smile and said, "That sounds wonderful, Sybil."

OOOOOOOOOOO

Quicker than Cora would like, Sybbie became fussy, and Sybil said they should return home so the baby could be fed. After that, Cora happily played with her granddaughter, tickling her and playing peek – a – boo. The little girl's smile, especially with her dark hair and blue eyes, were so much like her Sybil's it caused Cora's heart to melt completely every time she saw it. The noise, which Sybil explained was partly from living above a garage, didn't seem to bother the sweet baby at all.

Sybbie indeed.

Meanwhile, Sybil pulled the men's clothing off a line outside the flat Cora hadn't noticed before and began washing nappies. She sighed a bit, especially at some of the tough stains, but otherwise completed the tasks without trouble. Cora couldn't decide whether she was more amazed by her granddaughter or her daughter.

Sybbie was effortlessly sweet, but Sybil performed tasks no one else in their family would expect to do or even knew how to execute. It seemed her youngest daughter was adjusting even better than Cora had expected to her new lifestyle and she beamed with motherly pride as she watched Sybil rinse the nappies and hang them to dry.

After the nappies, as well as Sybil's hands, were all clean, Tom and Kieran arrived, laughing as they came in the door. Their hair fell over their eyes in an unkempt manner, and they wore tattered clothing, but they were obviously happy. "Come on, Kieran, you know better than that," Tom said, still chuckling.

"Oh, do I?" Kieran's deeper voice said with a thicker brogue.

"Hi, Tom!" Sybil said cheerfully, walking over him to immediately give him a kiss, which he responded. Then Cora's son – in – law picked up Sybbie and kissed her cheek, still laughing.

Cora sighed in amazement at how simple and natural the scene was. The family clearly loved each other and showed that easily. It filled her heart with joy, although she wondered how Robert would respond if she gave him such a greeting when she returned.

"My mother is visiting for my birthday," Sybil said after Tom finished his kisses. She smiled and gestured toward Cora, who stood up and held out her gloved hand.

"Hello, Tom. Kieran," she said cheerfully.

Both men paused, as if they didn't know how to respond. "Lady Grantham," Tom said finally, shaking her hand. His felt rougher than she'd expected but she didn't let it bother her.

"Ah…hello," Kieran said even more uncertainly. Oddly enough, he reminded Cora of Robert, considering how awkward her husband could be when discussing feelings or personal situations.

Trying to make him feel at ease, she smiled even brighter. "You have a very nice place here, and I see my daughter and granddaughter are happy. The garage must be doing well." She held out her hand more gently, hoping not to intimidate him this time.

Kieran accepted the shake.

OOOOOOOOOO

Kieran continued to eye Cora uncertainly for the rest of the evening but spoke happily about his garage. Meanwhile, Sybil cooked a marvelous stew for everyone, and Cora was even more impressed with the way her daughter handled the kitchen than she'd been with the washing. She'd cleaned out the old coal and placed new coal and then let the fire. After that Sybil had quickly boiled water, stewed beef, cut potatoes and carrots and stirred everything all without a second thought.

Soon the delicious aroma filled the flat, and Cora's mouth watered, even though stew wasn't a meal she normally ate.

It wasn't that Cora had thought Sybil was miserable here; but life was so different that sometimes she'd worried Sybil would become too overwhelmed.

It reminded her of the day it had been suggested Sybil become a war nurse, and Cora had been horrified at what her innocent daughter might face as a result. Then Carson had shown her Sybil, eagerly learning how to bake so she would be ready for nursing training, and Cora had never been prouder.

Her Sybil was adventurous and determined and perfectly fit for a life with her Tom above a garage, sparse and noisy or not. "That was wonderful," Cora said after dinner, still remembering the different flavors of the stew. "You should mail me a copy of the recipe, and I will pass it on to Mrs. Patmore."

Sybil nodded as her mother prepared to leave. "I will do that, Mama. Thank you for coming."

"Don't you worry; I will come again," Cora said, ingulfing her daughter into a big hug. "I wish I could say goodbye to Sybbie, but I'd hate to wake her. And happy birthday." Then, leaning in closer, Cora said softly into her daughter's ear. "I'm so proud of you."

Already missing them, Cora left the flat and climbed into the taxi that was bound for the Liverpool train station.

OOOOOOOOOO

Cora still missed Sybil and Sybbie as Christmas approached, and she tried to choose appropriate gifts for them this year. After speaking to Mrs. Patmore, Cora chose several gifts for Sybil the cook assured her that any woman who controlled a kitchen appreciated. A rolling pin, measuring tools, and a small rack for different tea leaves. She and Robert also choose a bright red Christmas dress for Sybbie.

Now Cora encouraged Robert to invite them to celebrate Christmas and New Year's at Downton. "Sybil has left us again, so why should we invite her to return?" Robert said, scowling in the drawing room after dinner one night. "Rosamund will come, and Mary, Mathew, and Edith are already here." He paused to smile as Mary and Mathew sat on the settee speaking quietly. "What more do we need?" He said firmly, daring Cora to contradict him.

Cora smiled herself at Mary and Mathew, reflecting on how much happier they both were since they'd married. Then she nodded at Robert. "I agree that it's wonderful to have Christmas with Mary, Mathew, and Edith this year, and Rosamund will come, as always. But" she paused a moment, trying to find the right words. She appreciated that Robert no longer blamed Tom for "forcing Sybil to leave," but it seemed he felt rejected by Sybil again.

"Even though Sybil has decided to live elsewhere, she still loves us, Robert," Cora said as gently as possible, looking directly into his eyes. "She wants us to be involved in her life and in Sybbie's."

A flash of doubt appeared in Robert's eyes at that before he scowled again. "She will not wish to come here for holidays, Cora. She claims that she doesn't like "our fancy lifestyle," remember? And the chauffeur will have nothing to do while the real gentlemen shoot."

Cora sighed. His additude about their son – in – law irritated her, but she resisted the urge to snap back, knowing it would not help. "Robert, we've been through this already last year," she said firmly instead. "We agreed that Sybil would visit us, and we would visit them. And they are willing to adapt to our lifestyle occasionally, as they did for Mary's wedding and when they had the baby here."

Robert still scowled, but Cora knew he was hiding pain, so she put both of her arms around him. "I know this is much more difficult than she realizes for you, but this is still our grandchild. I wish to see Sybbie in her beautiful red dress. She'd be almost six months old by now," Cora said, realizing how much time she still lost in the last three months since she'd seen her granddaughter. "Don't you remember how enjoyable it was to watch our girls at that age for Christmas?"

A wave of nostalgia washed over Cora as she remembered Mary crawling around empty boxes, much to Mama's disproval and Edith placing Christmas bows on her wisps of blonde hair. Even Sybil, who had been much younger during her first Christmas, had been fascinated by the shiny ornaments on the tree.

Meeting Robert's gaze, Cora knew he was remembering the same thing and she grasped his strong shoulders even more firmly. His response, he placed own hands on top of hers. Overcome with emotion, she kissed him on the cheek, even though Mathew and their other daughters were still with them in the drawing room.

OOOOOOOOOO

Unfortunately, Sybil chose not to come to Downton for Christmas, but as Robert said, Mary, Mathew, and Edith were there for the celebration, as was Rosamund and Mama. But Sybbie, Sybil, and even Tom arrived to celebrate New Year's.

To Robert's extreme surprise, their son – in – law agreed to try shooting the pheasants along with the other gentlemen. And to his even bigger astonishment, Tom was a very good shot. Robert couldn't stop staring at the boy, especially as he hit more than one bird.

Afterwards, Cora convinced Sybil to allow Sybbie to wear her red dress. Cora often wore red dresses on New Year's after all. It made her look even more precious than normal, with her dark wisps of hair, big blue eyes, and shiny red dress. She couldn't stop cuddling her, nor could she stop marveling at how big the baby had become. She was able to hold her head up, and Sybil even said the little girl was learning to sit. "Sybbie, you are so adorable," Cora said over and over, as the little girl giggled.

"Come see Grandpapa," she said finally, as she spotted Robert on the other side of the library, speaking to Mathew. It was pleasing to see them conversing better, considering how stubborn they both were about the estate. New Year's Day was bright for everyone in their family.

"Doesn't she look wonderful in this dress?" Cora asked with a smile. She switched the baby to her other hip, so both men could see her better.

Mathew nodded with smile. "Hello, Constance."

Robert looked at their granddaughter, his face neutral but his eyes still questioning. Cora knew that meant he was still a bit uncertain, although she appreciated that he resisted his instinct to lash out in those circumstances. It meant his soft heart would emerge soon.

"Why don't you hold her for a moment?" Cora said. She carefully transferred the baby into his arms. Her arms felt empty, but her heart melted at the image of Robert with Sybbie, who looked up at her grandfather in wonder.

"Tickle her chin," Cora said softly, as Robert's eyes still questioned what to do.

Gently, Robert did so, causing the little girl to smile and giggle. On the other side of the library, Sybil had been speaking to her sisters, but her eyes lit up when Sybil saw her Papa causing her daughter to laugh.

"Hello, Sybbie," he said, tickling her again. Cora smiled widely. She was delighted that he'd decided to use the same nickname she had for their granddaughter, but her heart was full to see him gazing at her with his own adoration. His soft heart, so full of love and loyalty to their family, had finally emerged.

OOOOOOOOOO

Sybil, Tom, and Sybbie discretely left before the servant's ball. As much as it hurt Cora's heart to see them go, she knew it was for the best, as some of the servants still resented Tom for marrying their Sybil. And as the servant's ball was meant to honor the servants, she didn't wish them to be uncomfortable.

Before they left, everyone stood outside the Abbey to say goodbye. Sybil and Tom wore simple overcoats and they wrapped Sybbie in a wool blanket. But fortunately, Robert chose not to focus on those details. Instead, he shook their son – in – laws hand. "Tom," he said carefully please take care of Sybil and the baby." It reminded Cora of how they'd parted after Mary's wedding, when Tom had saved Mathew and Mary from their stubbornness.

Before Tom had proven incapable of taking care of Sybil by leaving her alone and pregnant in Ireland.

Nevertheless, it seemed Robert had finally forgiven Tom for that incident. Tom let it go as well, shaking Robert's hand in return. "I will," he said just as firmly.

Sybil sighed, holding her little girl. "Papa, as I've said before, I don't need to be taken care of, and Tom does a wonderful job with Constance." Then she smiled brightly. "But thank you for having us."

Then they all climbed into the motor and drove out of sight.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

OOOOOO

Sybil and Tom returned to their home in Liverpool, with Tom fixing broken motors with his brother and Sybil caring for the house and Constance. In mid – January, Sybil sent her sister, Mary an invitation to come to their house for her birthday.

It was tough for Sybil to relate to her sisters, considering how different her life was now. She wrote to Tom's sisters, Sheena and Brigid regularly and still found it easier to discuss things with them. Brigid wrote about the conditions of the sheep and the trouble her children had with school. Sheena described the exploits her mischievous little boy, as well as the continuing tensions in Dublin. Sybil admired both for achieving what they'd done for their families with all their struggles. In return, Sybil easily wrote about the new sounds and movements Constance learned as well as things happening in their Liverpool neighborhood.

But what was there to admire about Sybil's family? She loved them and was very happy they'd accepted Tom and Constance, but Sybil wished they could understand each other better. Mama certainly tried, with visiting Sybil for her own birthday and giving her useful kitchen equipment for Christmas, but Mama, like the rest of her family at Downton, were too frivolous to truly know Sybil. That was part of the reason she'd invited Mary to Liverpool to celebrate her sister's birthday.

OOOOOOOOOOO

In addition to cooking and washing for Constance and the men, Sybil scrubbed their flat as hard as she could for Mary's visit. She also baked her mother – in – law's signature oatmeal biscuits in celebration of Mary's birthday.

When Mary arrived, the flat was filled with the scent of oatmeal and sugar. Sybil smiled as she opened the door. "Happy birthday, Mary."

Her sister, wearing a fancy shawl, blue swede gloves and flowered hat stood in the doorway. Her brown eyes scanned Sybil's much plainer clothing, sweaty face, and wrinkly bare hands. Then her ears tilted toward the sounds of the garage below them. But within a few moments, Mary walked inside enveloped Sybil into a hug, and her smile grew.

Mary may be a bit reserved, but she had a much bigger heart than most people realized. "Thank you, Sybil, darling" her sister said as they withdrew. She scanned the flat again. "I admit, I wasn't quite prepared for how," she paused for a moment, seeming to search for the right word. "Small your home is. And your clothing, Sybil." She shook her head. "I could speak to your husband about returning to Downton again. I hate to think of you living here just because he won't accept anything from Papa."

Sybil bristled. Mary could be just as overprotective as Papa sometimes. "I'm fine, Mary," she sighed. "Tom still loves working with automobiles and he's enjoying it even more now, considering he's working with his brother, and they own the business. And I promise you, this lifestyle suits me more than Downton ever did. I love taking care of Constance myself."

Sybil didn't mention how much she missed working at the hospital sometimes. To take care of patients who would call her "nurse" and thank her for the care that she gave them rather than a baby who screamed if Sybil attempted to place her in the crib for the night. But Tom was happy and accepted in Liverpool, and she couldn't force him to return to a place where he would always be seen as "the Irish chauffeur."

Mary didn't answer and her expression seemed neutral to someone who didn't know her well. Sybil knew her oldest sister was still thinking of a counter argument. It reminded her of the time Mary had convinced her not to elope and spent the next couple of months attempting to change Sybil's mind about Tom.

"Would you like an oatmeal biscuit to go with your tea?" Sybil said loudly, purposely interrupting Mary's thoughts. "I made them special for your birthday." She held a still warm, wonderfully smelling biscuit toward her sister.

Mary carefully removed her swede gloves and accepted the biscuit. To Sybil's surprise, she also selected another two off the tray.

After pouring the tea, they entered the sitting room, where Constance played in her own section. Sybil grinned proudly as she watched. "Look at her sitting on her own. Isn't she wonderful?"

Mary nodded as she sat down sipping her tea and nibbling on her biscuit. "Speaking of babies, I have some news. I'm finally pregnant, Sybil! Dr. Clarkson has just confirmed it a few days ago." Although her oldest sister tried to hide her emotions for some reason, no one would be able to ignore the joy on her face right now.

Placing her tea down momentarily, Sybil immeadiately hugged her sister. "That is truly wonderful, Mary."

Her sister returned the hug, but then immediately sat back down properly. "I know. You should have seen Mathew's face when I told him. He was so shocked and happy at the same time. You see, he'd worried that we might not…" She shook her head as if unwilling to reveal such information even to her favorite sister. "Well, it was a special moment for us."

Sybil nodded. "Of course, it was." Sipping her own tea, her heart ached that she and Tom hadn't had such a special moment when she had been pregnant with Constance. Instead, Sybil had hid her condition from her husband for a few weeks, the news exploding from her at in the middle of an argument. * Perhaps in the future, she'd have another child and she could tell him about the news in a better way.

"And I am already searching for the perfect nanny," said Mary, sipping her tea with a determined gleam in her eye that reminded Sybil a lot of Granny. "She must be someone who not only knows infant care, but someone whom I can trust with my child, and ultimately understands that she will answers to me, rather than me to her."

Sybil appreciated her sister's protective instincts were already showing toward her child, but it was also apparent how different their lives still were. She .had briefly considered a part – time nanny if they had stayed in Yorkshire and she'd returned to Downton Hospital but hated the thought of leaving her daughter in someone else's care now.

"You know, if you returned to Downton, our children would have the same nanny and we could raise them together," Mary said calmly as if the idea had just occurred to her. Then she munched on another oatmeal biscuit.

Sybil sighed, returning her tea to its saucer as her frustration grew. She'd known Mary wasn't done attempting to return Sybil to what she saw as the safety of Downton. "No, Mary I don't want Constance cared for by a nanny," she said a bit louder than normal, as her hands flew. "Liverpool, and this flat, is our home now."

Sybil would always love her family, but it seemed their lives grew farther apart from her every day. She sipped her tea and watched Mary munch on yet another biscuit. At least there was always teatime.

OOOOOOOOOOO

Yet, although Ireland seemed far from Liverpool, Sybil, Tom, and Kieran stayed close through letters. Mam wrote about Kevin Barry's torture and subsequent killing by the Crown in November. Tom, of course raved about the injustice and even Sybil grew cross at the government she'd once thought she could depend. They also read about Terence MacSwiney starving to death in a London prison because the Crown would not release him at the end of October. Sybil, Tom, and Kieran had shared a round of drinks in his honor.

Tom's younger sister, Sheena, on the other hand, wrote about her frustration with the IRA killing civilians, especially as 1921 began. She was particualarly worried about her husband, Nolan's job, as he worked for a protestant who favored the Crown. Still, at times Sheena seemed to hate the Crown's raids on civilians even more than the IRA, especially with her son, Jimmy who was only a toddler.

Sybil and Tom immediately looked at Constance at that, innocently babbling in her play area. "I hated to leave Ireland, but now I'm almost glad we did," Tom admitted with a sigh. "If anything happened to her…"

Sybil nodded, a lump in her throat as she stared at Constance, her dark hair framing her chubby little cheeks. "I know," she said as their hands found each other's. When she finally met his eyes, Sybil was overwhelmed by the love there, and she kissed him.

OOOOOOOOOO

But although Tom was happy Constance was safe, he was still passionate about Irish politics and clearly dreamed about returning there someday. He was particualarly pleased one day in March when Mam managed to smuggle a copy of the IRA's official magazine, the Irish Bulletin, into a letter.

The Bulletin included news of de Valera's return to Ireland from America. Unfortunately, the United States government had not recognized the Irish Republic, but plenty of American citizens supported the new country, including with monetary donations. It also described the horrible injustice of six IRA prisoners who were executed without proper trials.

Once again, Sybil fumed at the unfairness of the situation. She'd spent most of her young adult life fighting injustice, and there seemed nothing she could do to help these men. But her frustration immediately switched to the IRA as she read that the army "planned to respond accordingly" to what was done to them.

She knew what that meant. More killing, probably to civilians as well. Maybe even to Sheena, Jimmy, or Mam. Slamming her hands on the table, Sybil said "This is enough! Why must they always respond violence with more violence?" Standing, she filled a pot with water and placed it on the stove. At least feeding her family was more productive.

Kieran shrugged. "That's usually the way war works, Sybil. Ireland is at war with Great Britain, and the IRA is their army. That's why the only things I'm ever at war with are cranky engines," he said with a laugh.

Sybil stared at him, knowing that was typical for Kieran's humor, but not certain it was appropriate right now.

Tom sighed, his face appearing conflicted. "They will continue to fight until we have independence. I wish it wasn't the case, but it is."

Sybil shook her head. She appreciated how conflicted he was about this situation, but that didn't mean she accepted it. "They should find another way."

Tom nodded. "Perhaps they will, but I'm more interested in de Valera's return." His eyes sparkled with excitement and his voice quickened as he continued to speak. "With the true president of the Dail in Ireland, I'm certain things will improve soon."

Despite herself, Sybil smiled. His hair was wild after spending the day under motor's, and his face had dark smudges. Yet with his passionate idealism shining, he'd never looked more handsome. She felt compelled to kiss him.

OOOOOOOOO

Shortly after that, the three of them felt compelled to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with corn beef and cabbage and another round of drinks.

OOOOOOOOO

Before Sybil knew it, Constance was almost a year old, and it was time to celebrate her first birthday. They immediately planned a spirted bash with sweets, laughter, and drinks, much like the party they'd all attended for Jimmy almost two years before in Ireland. ** Sybil also invited her family, hoping their love for Constance would overcome their snobbery about entering the flat.

To Sybil's delight, almost all her family attended the party. Joy overwhelmed her as she watched Mary, Mathew, Edith, Mama, and even Papa enter the flat in Constance's honor.

"Hello, Lady Grantham, Lord Grantham " Tom said cheerfully with a nod.

"Hello, Tom," Mama said cheerfully, while Papa didn't say anything. "Oh Sybil," she said, breaking into a wider grin when she saw her daughter. Unsurprisingly, Mama immediately opened her arms for a hug and Sybil fell into them.

"Now where is my adorable little granddaughter?" she said as she withdrew, her eyes scanning the apartment.

"I think she's with Kieran," Sybil said. Just then, she heard Constance's delighted shrieks of laughter, and Sybil's grinned even wider. Her daughter loved it when her uncle and godfather tossed her in the air.

Unfortunately, Papa didn't like it. At all.

"Put my granddaughter down, young man," he said, as if he were ordering one of the footmen at Downton.

Kieran ignored him, tossing Constance in the air again. "I'm sorry, but as I see her more often than you, I know what she likes."

Papa scowled again, as if he were preparing to bark another order, but Sybil stopped him. "Papa, if you are going to be a guest here," Her hands flew as she spoke. "You cannot treat Constance's uncle this way." Tom's eyes met hers as she spoke, smiling in gratitude.

"Robert, I know you're concerned about her, but our granddaughter is clearly not in danger," Mama said softly. She picked up Constance herself. "You're alright, Sybbie, aren't you?"

Constance giggled in response.

Sybil paused, realizing how different her daughter was being raised than she had been. Would Papa have ever tossed her in the air as Kieran did when Sybil was a toddler? Of course not. She loved her father, but he was too rigid, as shown by the fancy traveling clothes he wore today. Pap wore an expensive corduroy suit, and he was still sporting his top hat in the flat.

Her family always claimed they didn't dress formally when they traveled. No jewelry or gowns, but they still wore corduroy and silk outfits and hats while Sybil, Tom, Kieran, and Constance wore regular cotton. And for some reason, Mama still wore that obnoxious corset. Every time she saw a member of the Crawley family, it was more obvious how different their lives were than hers, and seeing them all together in her and Tom's flat only made it more pronounced.

But still, she loved them and was determined to allow everyone to celebrate Constance's birthday. "Would you any of you like some tea?" Sybil said, refusing not to be cheerful.

"I would like some, Sybil," Mary said with a smile, from the rocker where she sat. At seven and half months pregnant, her oldest sister looked wonderful, although she and her husband still wore the same fancy clothing. For some reason, Mary even hat maternity traveling clothing that cost more than the flat Sybil and Tom lived.

But Sybil still nodded, smiling at her sister, and poured her a cup of tea.

"That sounds lovely, Sybil," Mama said as she poured Mary's tea. Edith nodded as well.

And then Kieran said, "Ah, you'll never believe the engine we struggled with yesterday." He chuckled. "So hairy Tommy and I thought it would walk away from us! Tom laughed immediately, and even Sybil giggled, accustomed to her brother – in – law's jokes.

But Sybil's family were silent, not certain what to make of him. She simply handed them their tea with a smile, determined they would enjoy themselves. At least Papa didn't yell at Kieran, although he probably wished to do so.

But then Mama handed him Constance, and Sybil melted at the expression on Papa's face.

OOOOOOOOOO

Fortunately, everyone enjoyed tea and cake, even though the party's jolly atmosphere wasn't quite what the Crawley's expected. Constance also received many gifts, including holy cards from Mam, a sun hat from Sheena, and a woolen hat from Brigid. All three of them also wrote letters, hoping to see them again in Ireland.

Kieran found a clever cup designed specifically for a child Constance's age, as it was made of something that wouldn't easily break. Edith gave a book of nursey rhymes and Mary and Mathew a pair of shiny shoes.

But Constance's favorite gift was a fluffy, brown stuffed bear from Mama and Papa. And Papa's adorable expression in response was worth everything. He still loved Constance. They all did.

No matter how fancy her family dressed, how prim their behavior was, or how pointless their lifestyle was, they loved her baby. And that was what mattered. Sybil was overjoyed they'd all come to Constance's birthday party.

OOOOOOOOOOO

A few weeks after Constance's birthday party, Tom received the letter they'd all been waiting. "It's happened, Sybil!" He said, laughing with delight as he held his Mam's letter in the air. "De Valera has sued for peace and England has agreed to the truce. Dublin is free!"

Kieran laughed, a huge smile on his face as well. "Did you hear that, Constance?" he said picking up the one year old, who giggled with delight. "Dublin is free!"

Sybil grinned, joy filling her as well as she pulled some clothing off the line. "That's wonderful to hear, Tom. No more fighting on either side."

Passing him with his shirt in her hand, she said "Does this mean we will return to Ireland soon?" She knew her husband had always planned on returning there when the Republic was recognized, as he still hoped to raise their family in the country he loved. Honestly, Sybil liked the idea as well. A country that produced women such as Constance Markiewicz and even Tom's sister, Brigid was a much better place for their daughter to be raised.

Still, it would be difficult for him to leave his brother.

She met his blue eyes, searching for answers, and they lost their sparkle as Tom sighed. "I'm not so certain that's possible, yet. Mam also said the truce will probably be temporary, and the fighting may break out again."

He handed her the letter, and Sybil skimmed it, immediately understanding what he meant. Nothing had been decided yet as far as the Irish government. They'd simply agreed to stop fighting and discuss terms. "I still dream of returning to Ireland one day, but not when there's any possiblity of you or Constance being hurt," he said as she read.

"Of course," Sybil said with sigh, loving that he would wait for their sake. But then, her Tom had always been patient. The most patient man she'd ever met, even more love filled her heart as she thought of that. Leaning over, she kissed him softly, his clean shirt still in her hands.

"So, I guess you're all stuck with me until that time comes," Kieran said with a wide grin.

"We're happy to be, Kieran," Sybil said, finally exiting the room to put Tom's shirt away. It was nice to be so close to Tom's brother, especially as Sybil's family, as much a they all loved each other, didn't understand Sybil or Tom very well at all.

*See Chapter nine of "Love and Freedom" for details about this.

**See Chapter seven of "Love and Freedom."

I have some more ideas for both universes (particularly Sybil attending Rose's coming out, returning to Ireland in the Liverpool AU, and a different version of Edith's wedding to Bertie for both the Yorkshire and Liverpool AUs. )

So, this story will stay open, but I don't know how often I'll post.

WARNING: I have decided that Mathew will be dead for both AUs, though.

I'm also working on a drabble series, based on the letters of the alphabet, for Sybil and Tom's courtship.