The happy couple left Earlington estate later that evening, in a special white and gold carriage which Aunt Agatha had procured for the occasion. She refused to have them return to Brighton house in a trickery old carriage which was "unbefitting for England's latest and brightest couple."
Jason stood by the door of the carriage while Emily hugged her parents. Tears were shed, a mixture of both happy and sad emotions on their faces. Happy, because they were finally getting her married, and they were glad to see her settle in her own home, the new countess of Brighton. Sad, because in spite of everything, they knew that Emily wasn't completely happy in her marriage now. They could understand her frustration, but it was a necessary pill that the entire Thornton family would have to swallow.
