Her Gentleman, Chess Piece: Part Two
Lady Camilla Riverside let a private smile grace her lips, as she began her deft appraisal of the Lord who might be good enough to steal her daughter away. She had never met Lord Michaelis before, and if her doubts were to be put to rest, she would need to get inside his mind and study him at her leisure. If the man couldn't be a pawn in some way or other, she wouldn't let him near the young lady Riverside. It wasn't wise to have a partner who was better than you in every way; especially if Sophie was to have freedom as a married woman.
As the men drew closer to where Camilla and Sophie were seated, the elder Lady Riverside tallied points for each gentleman in her head. Though the Earl hadn't stated an interest in courting the girl , there was still a possibility for a match there as well, if Lord Michaelis failed to endear himself and take an interest in her daughter.
Though the Earl Phantomhive was but a boy- about the same age as Sophie , perhaps even a year or two younger. . . which would mean more years waiting for him to die. . . . Definitely not afavorable course of action!
You've both already lost some good favor, Camilla thought with nearly unbridled interest. One is too young, the other is unknown to me, and both are late to greet their guests. . . Though I suppose they are not unforgivably late; some might even argue they are fashionably so. Well played, my lords. You're off the hook on that count, but I am not so easily won over. . .
It was as if the young Earl read Camilla's mind for he spoke just then, seemingly answering her silent thoughts.
"Welcome Ladies, I apologize for our tardiness. Lord Michaelis and I were detained by a business matter; sadly it could not be helped. I hope that you can forgive our absence."
Camilla dipped her head gracefully to him. "All is forgiven, my lord. We were just anxious to be in you and your good friend's company this evening. We feared that something might have been amiss."
Ciel waved off the comment in a cordial manner, though his disinterest was palpable. "It was a small malfunction that has now been resolved. It requires no more attention from anyone here."
Camilla smiled slightly- though it was neither friendly nor happy- and then turned her gaze to look at her daughter. The necessary introductions had not yet been conducted, and Camilla wouldn't waste another moment in remedying such a boorish slight.
"I do not believe that you have had the opportunity to meet my daughter, Lord Phantomhive?"
Ciel turned his good eye to regard Sophie then, "I have not."
When he didn't say more, Camilla took matters into her own hands again. "Then may I introduce my daughter, Lady Sophie Riverside. My darling, this is Lord Phantomhive, our host."
Camilla stared at her child, hoping that for once she would act normally and conform, but deep down despaired. And her fear was recognized when Sophie merely nodded her head to the Earl. There were no prettily formed phrases such as 'I am pleased to make your acquaintance,' or 'thank you for your invitation' or even a bloody 'hello'! Just a nod; a bland scandalous nod!
Lady Riverside was internally seething at her daughter's failure, but kept her gentlewoman's face in check, before turning her gaze back to the Earl. "I would introduce your friend, dear Ciel, but I am afraid I have never made his acquaintance before."
Ciel lifted a brow slightly at the familiar way Camilla used his name, but quickly recovered with a hand swished in the other Lord's direction.
"This is the man I was telling you about in our correspondence, Lady Camilla- my closest friend and ally. Sebastian: Lady Camilla Riverside and Lady Sophie Riverside."
Camilla's temper reared its ugly head once more at the absolute lack of propriety, but before she could state her annoyance aloud, Sebastiantook his turn to greet her.
"Lady Camilla, it is a pleasure to finally meet you," Lord Michaelis said with a small smile, inclining his head to both Camilla and Sophie. "Lord Phantomhive has spoken rather highly of you since he told me that you and your lovely daughter were to be his guests."
Camilla wasn't easily impressed, but the formal proclamation- no matter how stereotypical- was an antidote, and the formerly agitated woman fell into the familiar lull of niceties without a second thought.
"You speak too kindly, Lord Michaelis, but the sentiment is appreciated all the same. When the Earl was gracious enough to extend an invitation we were hopeless but to accept it."
"Indeed," Michaelis said, looking at Ciel as if he was in on a private joke. "Though I must warn you, my lady, he is one for games and the rarest kind of mischief. At least once during your stay, he will surely bewitch you with elegance or glamorous events."
Camilla laughed- though it was a sincere laugh, it never reached a volume inappropriate for a lady. "Then we shall get along swimmingly, for I too am fond of games."
For a moment Lord Michaelis studied Camilla, his beautiful wine colored eyes unreadable before his genial demeanor returned. "Good, then the surprises he has in store for us won't be too astounding, and we shall steal some of his fire."
"That is enough, Sebastian," Ciel said firmly, though it was not an actual command, and a small smile appeared on his lips. "You bore me and surely our guests with such sugar-coated wiles."
Sebastian smiled cheekily, "As you wish, Ciel. Just as long as you be sure to give us fair warning before you spring any means of entertainment."
"I make no promises, Sebastian."
"Then neither shall I, Lord Phantomhive."
Camilla internally smiled at the friendly banter, and let an inaudible sight escape her lips. Lord Michaelis was a breath of fresh air; she was so far pleased as punch by the prospect of matching him with her daughter. Though she wouldn't reveal as much until she was absolutely sure of the outcome. Not that she really needed much convincing; this Sebastian was at witty as he was handsome . . . Forget the Earl Phantomhive; Lord Michaelis was perfect!
{o000o}
Ciel Phantomhive was an overall decent actor and a fair liar, but so far he was having some trouble with maintaining his cover. The Earl had specifically given Sebastian the order to act as his equal- the plan wouldn't have worked otherwise- but it was beginning to irk him. The insufferable demon was doing his job well- too well. Sebastian was unabashedly poking and prodding his Master. There were too many things that were hidden messages, and it was enough to drive the young man mad with annoyance. But since it was according to his previous wishes, Ciel continued to play his part.
Though as they finally settled in for dinner- Sebastian and himself on one side of the table, and the women mirroring them on the other- something felt off. It was true that the entire situation was absurd and strange, but it was more than that. It was an electricity in the air; a blind tugging on the gut that made one both excited and frightened . . . and there was no seeming reason for it, though the young Earl had his suspicions. For he had felt something similar many times in the past, whenever he ordered Sebastian to do something that demanded he use their contract seal. . . it was pure demonic energy.
What Ciel couldn't figure out was why Sebastian was using it? Why it felt so horrifically strong. There wasn't any threat being posed to himself or their guests, Sebastian was helping to keep the conversation flowing so there was no trouble there, and he had obviously earned Lady Camilla's respect so there was no fear of the plan failing. . . So what other reason for the demon energy could there be? What was Sebastian hiding? What was Sebastian feeling?
As Ciel lifted another forkful of food to his lips he vowed that he would find out.
{o000o}
Sophie was on absolute pins and needles as the meal progressed, though despite this she still refused to utter a single sound or syllable. Usually the young woman was emotionless as she sat in silence and read those around her, but tonight her heart was flipping uncomfortably in her chest, and her mind was abuzz with unlimited thoughts and questions.
Ciel Phantomhive was different than most, with a strange strength boiling beneath his surface like a mighty volcano readying itself to erupt. He was calm and calculated as he played the role of host, but Sophie knew that if provoked his genial façade would slip off as easily as a custom-made glove.
Oh yes, the Earl was an interesting person indeed- one that she would wish to study further. But in truth, it was his companion- Lord Sebastian Michaelis- that caused the abnormal reaction in the normally unreachable young woman.
He was the most handsome man Sophie had ever seen, with beautifully groomed black hair, a manly yet gentle face, and the rarest wine colored eyes. His evening clothes were a mixture of deep crimsons and blacks that matched his hair and eyes- quite similar to the Earl's dress- and he cut quite a figure with his quick wit and clever tongue. But it wasn't his physical or mental attributes that gave the young woman pause. It was his aura; shrouding him like a second skin that made the young woman shiver.
This aura was invisible to the eye, but the feeling was undoubtedly there. . . Something dark . . . something treacherous. But it was also . . . welcoming.
Sophie didn't connect with people, yet now it didn't seem like such an impossible notion anymore. Lord Michaelis was still unapproachable- like the rest of the faceless crowd of society- but in his presence she wasn't excluded. Every word he said was somehow reaching her- and that had never happened before. Hand in hand with Sophie's regular apprehension and disgust there was also something soothing and comforting in the moment. It was almost as if he put her at . . . ease.
It was disconcerting, and altogether worrisome.
As the main meal drew to its conclusion, Sophie's silent opinion grew, though she was extremely wary. It seemed thought that she would be the only one to do so, seeing as her mother was already acting as if she and Lord Michaelis were old chums from her glory days.
Sophie was brought out of her deep thoughts by her mother's voice just then, and unwillingly listened as her eyes studied the spotless tablecloth.
"How is it that I've never met you before now, Lord Michaelis," Camilla asked as desert was served by the two male servants- Finny and Bardroy if the younger Lady Riverside wasn't mistaken. "You are so delightful; I believe that I should have met you long ago."
Sebastian took an experimental bite from his pastry, and chewed thoughtfully. "My lady gives far too much credit to herhumble servant. I have been abroad on and off for many years, though I fear that that is not what you wish to know."
"Pish tish! What a tangled web you weave," Camilla said with a giggle that was far more flirtatious than usual for her. "Then permit me to rephrase: why are you never at social gatherings? Surely you are in London enough to enjoy the company of others now and again?"
Sophie watched knowingly as her mother took a bite to match Lord Michaelis's. Whenever her mother wished to gain information she copied the physical movements or gestures of the person she was trying to connect with. It was unconscious way to gain trust, and sadly it had been proven many times to actually work. Though as the young woman watched the strange gentleman, he didn't seem to be affected by it, and continued to chew his food without hurry.
When he had finally swallowed, Lord Michaelis did something that made the young lady freeze in her seat. Though he respectfully answered Camilla's inquiry, Sebastian specifically turned to gaze at the young woman instead.
"I find the social atmosphere to be stifling, more often than not, milady. I usually find more productive things to do in my spare time, than entertain and admire England's elite. Though I can do so without discomfort, if the mood takes me."
His wine colored eyes were looking directly into Sophie's gray ones, and it made her blood feel as if it was on fire. Though he hadn't moved from his seat, his gaze had infiltrated her privacy. In that moment, he knew all her secrets- or least it felt that way- and the young lady immediately shifted her eyes away.
Camilla, who had seemingly missed the brief exchange between her daughter and her new friend, beamed. "Well, my dear Sebastian, I must say that you are hopeless."
"Pardon?"
At the question Ciel shifted in his seat- something that Sophie caught though didn't focus on- and Sebastian lifted a beautiful black eyebrow.
"Social graces are the only way to a good life," Camilla elaborated, taking a generous sip from her wine glass. "Though I must admit you and Sophie are a match made in heaven! The child can't stand to be in a crowded room! Isn't that right, dear?"
At this all three pairs of eyes turned to the young woman who hadn't said a single word the entire meal. Ethereal blue, woodland brown, and wine red all regarded Sophie, waiting for her answer to the single affirmation. . . And it was too much. Too much attention, too many people prying, too many feelings.
Standing in one swift motion, the young woman accidentally knocked over her chair, and her eyes moved to the polished marble floor.
"Why would I wish to be in a crowded room, mother," came the quiet and somewhat angry reply. "When I am so unworthy of the time they would spend on me?"
The surprise in her mother's eyes was clear, and Ciel Phantomhive seemed almost proud of her for the outburst. But Lord Michaelis's reaction remained a mystery, for Sophie didn't look at him. She couldn't be caught in the vipers gaze again, so she did the only logical thing.
She ran away.
With her hands clutching the sides of her skirt, the young lady lifted the bothersome fabric and ran from the room, retracing her steps from when they entered the Phantomhive Manor and opening the front door with but a flick of her hand. Then she was running past the entrance and deep into the grounds, to the maze-like garden. It was only when she reached a solitary looking tree, far away from the house, that the young woman stopped to catch her breath.
Once she had done so, she looked around her in the fading day-light and sighed in relief. She hadn't been followed . . . she was finally safe.
{o000o}
Lady Camilla had never been so embarrassed in her life, and it showed on her lovely face in the form of teary eyes and a crinkled brow. Though she wasn't emotional enough as a lady to be hopeless in such a situation, she was angry enough where her reaction was extreme. Why would Sophie say such a thing in front of new acquaintances? Camilla had warned her against such insolence before they had arrived, and yet somehow the child had still managed to make a fool of herself! It would have been better if the little brat had remained silent, as crazy as that sounded! Why, oh why, did she always have to ruin perfect situations!?
"I am sorry for my daughter's brash behavior," Lady Riverside said solemnly. "I don't know what got into her."
From his place across the table Lord Michaelis placed in napkin down on the table and rose from his chair. "The fault lies entirely with me, my lady. It was my error that led to the young Lady Riverside's discomfort."
Camilla knew that in fact it was her words that had set Sophie off, but didn't say so aloud. . . For Sebastian's chivalry was the perfect opportunity to make some ripples. . .
"I should go talk to her . . . Sophie becomes a danger to herself when she's upset," Camilla sniffled.
This wasn't anywhere near the truth- Sophie had never tried to harm herself, even when she was upset- but it was the perfect setup for a gentleman, and as predicted Sebastian took the bait.
"Please, allow me to find her. I must make amends for my unfavorable words."
"It is not your responsibility-" Camilla began, but Ciel interrupted her.
"Please, Lady Camilla, let him do it. Otherwise he'll be insufferable the rest of the evening."
"Well," Camilla paused briefly, "Alright."
Sebastian chuckled as he bowed to both Ciel and Camilla, and then turned on his heel. "I shall be back shortly."
Lady Camilla was beyond pleased with herself, as her plan to test Michaelis was going well. Though Sophie had been upset, she would undoubtedly tell Camilla everything that the Lord did while in her presence. If he was inappropriate or too forward, Camilla would know. And if he was the perfect gentleman, she could celebrate the prospect of a spring wedding.
Things were going according to plan!
. . . Or at least that's what Camilla thought. Though if she had seen the look shared between Ciel and Sebastian and the smile that the latter had plastered to his lips, she might have thought differently.
A/N: Here's the next chapter guys! I had some more Sebby and Ciel in there for ya! Hope yall liked it! I apologize for any typos you might find! I didn't have time to really do a proper edit- and this story was originally a Reader Insert. ^^; If you spot any please let me know!
Any thoughts or guesses for what will happen? I'd love to hear what you guys think? ;)
(Also, thanks to everyone who has reviewed, faved, watched, or read this story thus far! I'm extremely grateful to you all!)
~Lyn