Matthew gazed at Mary from across the crowded room.
He didn't understand why he was so fixated on her.
She was cold, unwelcoming, and frankly rude.
But she was strong, determined, and it helped that she was the most stunning woman he'd ever set his eyes on.
He knew how much she despised him, and that she felt he was stealing her spot as the heir to Downton. Honestly, he sort of felt like the imposter she acted like he was.
Despite all the negatives, he couldn't tear his thoughts away from Lady Mary Crawley.
It was a two way attraction, contrary to how she acted.
Mary felt his eyes on her, so she purposefully didn't turn around. The last thing she needed was Matthew, or anyone else for that matter, taunting her.
Of course she was bitter that this man her father barely knew was his heir and the new object of his pride.
Papa acts like Matthew's his son, when I've been here my whole life, proving I am smart enough and strong enough to be the heir to Downton.
She sighed, taking a sip of her drink.
Even if she was angry with him, it was more so with Robert's love for him than with the man himself.
She was cold to most people, and she wouldn't make an exception for Matthew, even if he was intelligent, quick-witted, kind…
Unexpectedly handsome.
Inwardly scolding herself, she risked a glance over her shoulder and caught his piercing blue eyes already resting on her.
He gazed into her rich brown eyes.
How can she be so perfect when she isn't perfect in the slightest? Mary Crawley is the most complicated, confusing, beautiful, compelling woman I have ever met, and I never have and never will love anyone as I love her.