Chapter 9: When the World Falls Down
Over the course of the next couple of weeks, Vincent and Rachel went back and forth to and from the Phantomhive Manor. Sebastian knew for a fact that Vincent was no longer his, and he somehow managed to accept that fact. Vincent was growing up a little more every day. As earl and head of the house, reality had struck him; making him realize the fantasy he imagined with Sebastian as his lover wasn't possible.
It helped, though, that Sebastian had gotten to know Rachel Dallas, and he ultimately approved of her as a partner for Vincent. The lady and the servant were now the closest of friends.
Of course, upon hearing the news that Vincent had proposed to Rachel, Sebastian was crushed in mind and soul. But he couldn't bring himself to loath or despise either of them, nor could he bring himself to envy Rachel. He was in much the same position as Angelina Dallas, Rachel's sister. The lot of them had one thing in common: they loved Vincent Phantomhive.
Sebastian thought the marriage wouldn't do anything to the close friendship and bond he had with Vincent. But one day, he was severely proven wrong when he was called into the earl's study shortly after his breakfast.
"Is there something the matter, Vincent?" Sebastian asked, noting how downcast the earl looked upon walking into the study.
"I'm afraid so . . ." Vincent replied, "Before I speak, promise me you won't hold any grudge against me or Rachel."
Sebastian nodded, all of sudden afraid of what he was going to be told.
"My wedding is in a few weeks, as you know. I can't see it possible in any way for us to continue having relations. It isn't fair to Rachel, nor is it fair to you."
Sebastian nodded again, "So this is a break-up, then? Am I to make it very clear to myself to stay away from you? Because I wouldn't hold a grudge against you for that reason alone."
"It's worse than just that, Sebastian." Vincent said, "I feel . . . awkward with you around. And with marrying Rachel . . . oh god, I've made everything so complicated! Falling in love with two people . . ."
"Don't blame yourself. I can't bear it see it. But what is it you're trying to tell me? You want me to leave?"
"I was going to find a less harsh way to put it, but yes."
If Vincent hadn't been someone Sebastian truly loved, Sebastian would have broken his neck. But he found he couldn't get mad at him, nor saddened at having to be forced out of the manor. He was just a tad bit upset by the situation as a whole.
"I'm not letting you leave with nothing, though." Vincent spoke up, "I'm providing you with sufficient clothing, money, and a house in Arachnophile, so you still have a roof over your head and you are left with something more than just the clothes on you back. I'd be happy if you'd also keep in contact."
Sebastian forced a smile.
"That sounds fair, sir."