Laire was smiling as she hitched up the horses with Snake. They were all going into London today. They were going shopping. Meyrin needed a new pair of glasses, Finny a new hat, and knowing the Earl he would allow all of them to choose something to have. Her mind was a flutter with what she might be able to get. A new pair of riding boots perhaps, these ones were getting rather old. But she did need more potion ingredients from the apothecary but at the same time she could always go into London herself one day and get those. Today she wanted to get something special.
She felt almost spoiled as she glanced over at Snake who was fitting the Earl's carriage on Betsy and William. The past week had been a dream. Each night she and Snake would disappear into his room and feed each other chocolate and kiss. And sometimes when they were out in the stables together they would kiss as well. Nothing more, nothing ever more than kissing. But it felt like they could kiss forever. Kisses and getting something nice today, yes she was spoiled indeed.
Attaching Anne to the servant's cart Laire patted her rump and went over to Snake. It seemed William was being disagreeable today.
"William, what is th' matta? Let Snake hook ye up."
"No, I do not wish to go into London today. I do not feel well."
"Ye donna feel well, why did ye nay tell me 'hat earlier," Laire exclaimed moving Snake aside so she could get a better look at William. His eyes were a slight yellow and his mouth was dry.
"Ye have been eatin' acorns again! Ye ken they are poisonous tae ye! Ah told ye tae stop!"
"But they taste so good."
"Fur th' sake ay all 'hat is good, do ye want tae die!?"
"No, please help me Mistress."
Laire sighed and began to unhitch William. "He canna go intae London taeday, an' it will tak a day tae make mah potion tae cure him. Ah have tae stay here an ta care ay this idiot. Tanaka will drive th' otha carriage. Betsy ken pull this ain by 'erself ye jist need tae go slowa….god damn it, Ah was lookin' forward tae shoppin' in London."
Today would be the first time Snake had been out in public since he tracked Smile down. And before that was the circus for performances. While he had initially been uncertain at going with the household, concerned about how people would talk about Smile, the idea of going with Laire had eased his worries.
In fact, the trip had been on his mind over the past few days when they weren't kissing. Ah yes the kissing...he felt himself taste a bit of heaven, the idea that poets often spoke of, mixed with chocolate in their late nights. It was her taste, her mark to stick with him: the taste of heaven.
Sooner or later though, Snake thought, hoped, it might be more. He hadn't thought seriously of a normal life, a partner and more. He had given that up long before even contemplating it.
Then he met Laire.
But he didn't know what to do. Well, he knew from what he had seen at the circus but Laire wasn't Beast and he was not Joker. Laire deserved more, the best. He wanted to give it to her. He wanted everything to be as perfect as writers often lamented about, which was as perfect as perfect could be.
And that started with London. Their first outing. Or it would have been had William not been ill. Snake wanted to offer to stay, but he didn't know how to tend to a horse or brew a potion. Even so, to keep snakes around a sick horse wasn't smart.
"I am sorry, says Emily." And so was he, intensely. "I wanted to go out...perhaps we could go to London another time, the two of us, not for teaching...says Keats." But it was still disappointing. Snake frowned for a moment before willing it away. "I can bring you something, says Emily."
Laire was able to give a small smile at Snake's offer. "'hat would be verra kind. If ye did Ah would appreciate it verra much."
Stepping away from William Laire touched Snake on the arm and lean up kissing him on the cheek. "Ah wanted tae go owt wit' ye tae, but ye are retch another time. And there is always Beltane tae. 'hat is comin' up in a week."
From far away Laire could hear Finny call out their names. "Ye should get goin'. Donna want tae keep th' othas waitin'. Tell Sebastian an' Masta Ciel fur me will ye? Ah need tae find some willow bark by th' pond an' start th' antidote."
Her lips against his flesh, scales and all, would be something he would never get used to. Each time would be like the first, leaving him with the slightest hint of pink and sliver of awe that this woman did so if her own accord. Snake smiled softly and let his hand graze over hers on his arm.
"What do you wish for, asks Keats?" He already had something planned for Beltane which was sneaking up quickly. It was not something to be bought but it did require time. A lot of time.
Her thumb stroked Snake's arm and she smiled. "Ah was planin' on decidin' what Ah wanted on th' ride doon. Ye ken jist surprise me, if ye feel so inclined. Ah will be happy wit' anythin' as long as 'tis from ye."
Leaning up again she pressed a chaste kiss against his lips.
Surprise her? He wondered what to get her. Before he could think further, her soft kiss distracted him. He returned it quickly just as William snorted. "Until we return, Laire...says Keats."
"Please, Mistress," William groaned from the background.
"Aye, aye William," Laire said turning and walking back over to the horse. "Go an' lay doon in yer stall Ah will get a blanket fur ye….Snake, Ah will see ye when we get back. Donna get lost, alright."
He then led the horses over to the mansion where the servants stood. Spotting Tanaka he walked over. "William ate acorns and Laire must stay behind to nurse him back to health. Will you be able to drive the servant's carriage, asks Emily?"
Tanaka nodded once. "Yes of course. I will explain to Sebastian."
As the old man went off to locate the butler, Snake went to make final adjustments. Bard joined the servants with a small basket of food. "Hm? That's a shame, I know she was looking forward to this."
Snake glanced over and thought. Bard...he had women before hadn't he? Maybe he could talk to the man. Before Snake could plan further, Smile came out if the mansion. Snake held the carriage door open for him and Black before closing and getting in position. When the others followed, the servants talking animatedly in the back, he set off.
Bard had been carefully watching Snake for the past few days. When the snake-man had originally joined them Bard had been distrustful of the outsider. Yet when nothing bad had happened to anyone he had started to relax and notice a few other things. Things like how Snake and Laire were always together, how Snake would stare at Laire, touching her when he thought no one would notice, and how Laire blushed at the touches. It seemed he had been wrong: there was someone who would not mind sleeping with a snake-man.
Perhaps that was why Laire had been so cold to him lately. Bard would apologize by giving the pair a push. And the perfect way to do that was giving Snake some advice on how to pick up women. Bard did not like to brag but he had always been very good at charming the ladies. The camp followers during the war had all loved him and he had always pleased them well. He may not know how to cook but he knew how to heat up the oven.
The trip to London was longer than usual as they had to go slower with only one horse on the main carriage. When they arrived at the shopping district and were walking around Bard was waiting for his chance to confront Snake. It finally came when Meyrin was being fitted for her new glasses. Bard wrapped an arm around Snake's shoulders and pulled him off to the side.
"Hey Snake, my scaly comrade, I know I haven't been the best over the past couple weeks. But I want to give you something as an apology. I noticed that you have a thing for Laire. Even in the circus you must not have had a woman given your appearance, so would you like some advice on how to pick up women? Laire in particular?"
Thoughts of what to get Laire filled Snakes mind as they roamed the shops, he had turned to look out the glass shop when an arm went around him. Both Keats and Emily hissed, mouths open and heads up to bit the limb. At realizing it was the cook,the told them to stand down. Until Bard opened his mouth. Then he was contemplating if Black would be quick enough to save Bard from a bite. "Hello to you as well Bard, says Emily." His tone was like stone. "I have never been to America and now I see no reason to, adds Keats."
Snake inhaled slowly before trying again. "What advice would that be asks Emily?" Admittedly he was curious. He wanted advice but not with this man's ego.
Meanwhile Keats whispered I just thought of something Laire would like.
Bard smiled oblivious to the insult Keats has given and unaware of the threat the snakes had given him.
"Excellent now I noticed that you are rather shy and while some foppish women like that a free spirited woman like Laire needs a firm hand. She is...like a horse you have to break her in and show her who is boss. Then she will follow you everywhere and listen to your wish."
Bard bent down and looked Snake in the eyes a very secretive expression on his face. "The way you do this is just go for what you want. Want to kiss her do it. Kissing her and want more go for it. Women respond to strong men it is in their nature they are the weaker sex after all."
Clapping Snake on the shoulder he smiled. "And if you need anymore advice feel free to ask."
Snake didn't flinch at his "pat" on his shoulder. He was mulling over what the man had said. Women wanted strong men...alright he could see that. It happened with animals and the folks in the circus. But break Laire in? Like a horse? He raised a brow. He didn't even know where to start with that. "Right...thanks, says Emily."
When he stepped aside, the group moving to the hat shop, he inquired what Keats had
thought of. She is learning to read English books is she not?
It was a brilliant idea, Snake agreed, but what book would she read?
What book will you teach her to read, you mean.
Ah yes that was perfect. But what to get her?
You are not going to try the cook's advice are you? Emily the sensible questioned.
Laire stroked William's mane gently to comfort him in his illness. She had brewed the potion and given it to him, now there was nothing left to do but wait. The potion was purging the impurities from his system, expelling the poison. He need a constant supply of water to make sure he was not dehydrated from the anal expulsion. Although they were by the river for water and sanitation of the stables Laire would need to clean William thoroughly after he was done and feeling better.
After a couple hours William had stopped his expulsion and had was feeling well enough to return to the stables. Dipping a rag into the stream Laire gently cleaned his sore and raw buttocks and very dirty tail before guiding him back to the stables. She would do a deeper clean tomorrow when everything would be out for sure. Giving him a little bit of fresh hay so he would have a bit of energy Laire set a thick woolen blanket over him.
"Now will ye eat acorns again?" She asked him sternly.
"No, Mistress, I am sorry. They just taste so good when I see them I have to eat them."
Laire smiled half-heartedly. "Go tae sleep now an' rest up, Ah want ye better taemorrow."
"Yes, Mistress." Settling down William closed his eyes and almost immediately fell asleep.
With a sigh Laire picked up the basket she used for collecting herbs and other potion ingredients. Time for the fun part. And by fun she meant tedious and therefore not fun at all. She must walk the entire length of the paddock fence that ran along the woods and pick up all the acorns with and in slightly beyond William's reach. It would be tiring and dreadfully dull task. Laire rather wish Snake was there to talk to or even one of his friends. Vincent and Rachel were both grazing in the field and Laire did not want to bother them.
Pulling and tying her hair back Laire was just about to leave for her next job when the rumbling of carriages greeted her ears. What luck, they were back. Now Laire could steal away Snake to talk to while she picked up the acorns. With a large smile now on her face Laire waited for Snake in front of the stables.
"Och! How was London? Did ye get 'hat bag fur yerself? It looks lovely on ye." She asked a little over excited as he approached her with the carriages and two rather tired horses.
Snake spotted the familiar figure and smiled. Emily inquired again what he would do. Laire wasnt meant to be "broken" like a horse...he had seen too much of that in the freak show. And freak she was not.
Stepping off the carriage, he went to helping undoing the horses. "Yes now everyone can travel with me, says Keats. I also got you something...Two things actually. How is William asks Emily?"
"He is sleeping right now," Laire replied unhitching Anne from the cart, "all th' poison is out. Ah was jist abowt tae go an' pick up all th' acorns from th' fence line by th' woods tae make sure it doesna happen again."
Feeding Anne a nutball for her good work Laire turned to Snake who was still unhitching the more complicated carriage. She approached him, another nutball in her hand for Betsy, and slid her arms around Snake's shoulders carefully avoiding Emily and Keats. "So ye got me somethin'," she asked curiously.
Snake's annoyance was building at the carriage when a familiar weight came over his shoulders, heavier than his friends but welcomed. Said annoyance disappeared. "Keats. It was my idea says Keats." Finally with the carriage serrate from Betsy, he nodded for her to trot off before glancing at Laire.
If there had been any doubts of Bard's advice before they were confirmed now. No one with such locks that resembled flames could be tamed. And that was part of the appeal, he figured. "I can help you with the acorns if there are any remaining, then give you the items there...says Emily."
"Och 'hat sounds like a bonnie plan." Laire said letting go of Snake and giving the nutball to Betsy. She grabbed her basket and looped arms with Snake. "Ah am glad Ah doona have tae do this mahself. It will be dreadfully borin' alone but wit' ye tae talk tae it will be much better."
They walked together out to the fence line where and Laire sigh at the sight of all the acorns. Maybe she should just move the fence.
"Alright time tae get goin'." She bent down and began picking up the acorns. "So how was London? Did th' trip go well?"
With his bag of friends on one hip and Laire on the other, Snake felt light as he walked. His hand crossed and rested in her arm as they walked. Spotting the acorns, he shifted his bag and got to work. This would take a while.
"London was nice. There were a lot of people, and Smile was very generous, says Emily." He had since then become comfortable with calling Ciel Smile near Laire. He trusted her and knew she would not mind the slip of proprietary.
Opening a small pocket of the bag, ushering Wilde out of it, Snake placed the acorns in there. "Meyrin loves her new glasses and will not stop staring at Black. Finny is very happy with his hat, Donne even climbed on it because of the flower, says Keats." He paused. "I don't know what Bard got. He tried to buy a book and Black covered Smile eye. Says Emily."
A laugh escaped Laire at what Bard had tried to get. That did sound like that obnoxious America. "Ah am glad ye all had a good time. While Ah was takin' care of William Ah was thinkin abit Beltane. Do ye still want tae celebrate wit me?"
"Of course I do. I even started to set out and mend my old outfit, says Keats." As he collected more acorns, he asked, "What filled your mind asks Emily?"
"How we are goin' tae celebrate. We ken do a fire easy enough but usually there is music an' there isna enough people tae play even if we had instruments. Ah ken hear th' music in mah head an' dance tae 'hat but ye canna unless ye donna want tae dance wit' me an' only want to watch."
"Would practice before work?" he inquired. He turned away to pick more acorns. "We could ask the others to play music says Emily."
"Ah donna have th' right instruments." Laire said, all of her instruments had been burned along with her house back in Alba. "Beside Ah was thinkin' 'hat it would be jist th' two of us...an' yer friends of coorse. I will think ay somethin' tae do. Ah was wonderin' tae do ye want tae tie a knot wit' me?"
"Tie a ...asks Keats?" In different cultures the saying meant different things. He didn't dare get his hopes too high.
"Aye an' endless knot or as ye might ken them a Celtic knot. 'Tis a ritual. Ye tie a triquetra wit' one side fur each of the goddesses owt of sweet grass or vines an' throw it intae th' fire an' ye will be granted good luck fur th' year or one wish. An' 'tis th' best time tae make knots fur other thin's tae. But when ye tie a knot taegether yer future will be intertwined future th' year an' ye will bring each other luck, at least 'hat it what mah mum would always say."
Laire dumped a handful of acorns into the basket. Somehow they seemed to be a quarter done. Shared work really was light work, or at least lighter.
Snake recalled a few symbols and knots he had seen before. To make one with Laire with both knowing what it meant...he felt his heart jump at the prospect. Pouring the collected acorns in thr bucket as well, he paused in his work.
"I would feel honored to tie a knot alongside you, Laire." And though his smile was modest, his eyes were bright. He then stepped closer so that only the bucket was between them.
"Ah ken Ah have been askin' a lot of ye, Ah donna mean tae tak' advantage of ye. If ye donna want tae do anythin' Ah suggest jist say. Ah feel like Ah have nay done anythin' fur ye but ye keep doin' thin's fur me."
"You have done much for me...you have given me reason to stay." Snake leaned forward and kissed her cheek. "Says Keats."
Now was the time to tell her of her gifts. He opened the bag and picked out the two books when his friends scooted apart. "I remember you saying that you were learning how to read English novels. I thought we might be able to read them together, Emily Dickinson's poems and Wildes Portrait of Dorian Gray. Says Keats."
At the sight of the books Laire felt her heart clench. Alein had always given her book when he came back from Edinburgh. But Snake wasn't Alein. He wasn't going to leave her or betray her.
"Thank ye Snake. Ah havena read either of these afore. Ah would love tae read them taegether. Since we finished th' chocolate we ken start one taenight."
Laire hugged Snake tightly kissing him full on the lips. It was not a simple kiss he deserved more for this gift. She sucked gently on his lower lip with a smile. Snake's hands went to her waist as the kiss heated. Pulling her closer until their bodies lacked space in between, his tongue darted against her lips. The acorns were long forgotten for now.
A groan escaped Laire as Snake's tongue darted across her lips. She would never get tired of its feel. Loosening her hug Laire moved her hands to the front so that she was clinging on to his shoulders. His body was pressed against hers and not confined by a skirt Laire was able to feel the full press of his body against her own. They fit together perfectly.
His tongue slipped past her lips and found hers, the split of the tip moving in sync. Faintly he recalled advice of the cook earlier that day and wondered if Laire really would like the dominate side. While he wouldn't push her to have their first complete entwining now, he did think they could do more than simpler kissing. At least he thought she wanted it too...but she was waiting for his push.
His hand on her right hip traveled up slowly, trailing lightly. Ignoring the pounding of his heart, Snake paused at her ribcage and ran his thumb over her breast. Laire gasped into Snake's mouth at the sudden added touch. Her hands squeezed his shoulder and she urged her body further into his. She wanted him to touch her again. As long as they did not do too far he could touch her all he wanted.
Who would have thought that the cook had been correct about women in one thing? Not that he would ever know. Snake had to fight the urge to smile until the kiss knowing that it would only interrupt. His hands held onto her tighter as he daringly let his hand travel further up to cover her breast.
He felt his pants become a bit tighter, slightly uncomfortable but nothing past. Somewhere in the back of his mind he was aware that they were out in public still.
Laire was glad that she had decided to wear a corset today. She moaned softly and broke the kiss as Snake cupped her breast. "Och, Snake," she breathed against his lips. "Ye donna ken what ye do tae me."
Pressing a long but chaste against his lips she pulled back again. "Ye give me hope again, hope 'hat Ah ken furget how th' village betrayed me, an' hope of a future….taegether wit' ye."
She also wanted to tell him that he made her want to toss up her skirts for him. But she did not want to give him the wrong impression. Despite everything Laire was still skittish about giving herself fully to him. She wanted to be absolutely sure before making that bond.
His breath caught when she spoke. He ran his hand through her hair carefully as to not tangle up in it. "And you make me feel worth more than my scales." More than what he could bring into the circus or freak show. Human. "Says Emily."
Snake lost himself in her kiss once more as he walked her backwards into a tree. This time when his body fit with hers. His need was obvious.
Laire did not even notice Snake walking her backwards until her back hit against one of the trees inside the paddock. It was then too that she noticed the hard length pressing into the crux her hip and womanhood. Suddenly her face was red not because of arousal but of embarrassment. Yet as Snake's tongue slithered around her mouth the embarrassment began to fade once again replaced by excitement.
Her hands moved from his shoulder and slipped inside his suit coat. She began nudging it off. She knew how confining it was and she wanted to feel the press of his chest against her better. She wanted to feel him.
With great joy, he let the coat slip off and hit the ground. To hell with the dirt. The hand that wasn't wrapped in her locks traveled down her waist and over her hips. He could feel her heat from every inch of her body, making him harder. Snake pulled away enough to kiss her neck, feeling the definition of intoxicated.
A series of gasps and moans escaped Laire as Snake kissing her neck. She had never been kissed there before. The hand on her hip burned and the burning spread until she felt her whole body on fire.
"Snake," she cried as he sucked on a little patch of skin at the base of her neck. With her whole body on fire she thought she was going to melt. His teeth scraped against the sensitive spot that he had been suckling and her eyes shot open with a wordless cry escaping from her.
Then all the passion and heat drained from her body. Sebastian was leaning against the tree next to them. Watching with a none too pleased look on his face. When he saw her looking at him his eyebrows raised. Laire released Snake's shoulders and gently pushed him away from her. He was looking at her very confused and she pointed to Sebastian.
"A Phantomhive servant should never be so unaware. Had I been an enemy I could have killed you at any time."
It was all going swimmingly, her cries were lovely twice over, and then...she froze. When Snake was nudged back and he looked over his shoulder, he felt his face pool with blood. We tried telling you.
You could not hear us.
Black has been standing there for a while.
It was both surprising and slightly dangerous, he thought, that he couldn't have heard his friends. Swallowing dryly, Snake tried to save face although the damage was already done. "If you had been an enemy, my friends would have attacked you. Says Emily."
"You put such faith in your friends surprising for someone who has had one set of friends leave him already." Sebastian bent over and picked Snake's jacket off the ground. Brushing off the dirt he handed it back.
"A Phantomhive servant should take care in his uniform. Wear it as a symbol of pride..."
Laire shivered slightly as the demon's eyes roamed over her and Snake.
"From now on the two of you will confine any non-duty related activities to after your duties are concluded for the day. If I catch you two unawares again I will be forced to inform the young Lord. Do you understand?"
"A-aye," Laire stammered the red of embarrassment returning to her cheeks.
Something flashed over Snake's face before he went back to the neutral expression he wore more times than not. His eyes were dim and his jaw set, skin pale once more, and his shoulders set back. He said nothing as he took the jacket, refusing to emote in any manner. He was accustomed to not showing emotions, both from the snake side of him and from the fact that one had to hide their feelings in a freak show, lest they suffer more.
"Yes, sir." He said evenly. Emily and Keats peeked out to stare down Black as well, a low hiss leaving them when he couldn't.
"Good. Then it is nearly time to begin preparing for dinner. Snake be back at the manor within half an hour. Laire please stop dragging him away from the manor to help with your own duties." With a sharp turn and without waiting for any response Sebastian left.
"Bloody bastard," Laire muttered when Sebastian was gone. "He could have at least picked up some of the acorns while he was watching."
She looked at Snake who was still stoney faced and touched his arm gently. "He shoulna have said 'hat abowt yer friends. Yer snakes will never leave ye…." She slid her hand down and threaded her fingers through his. "An' if everthin' goes well Ah willna either."
Snake watched Sebastian leave and took another moment to inhale slowly, willing his anger to go away. It was odd and quite a shame that his venomous friends didn't work on the butler.
At the sound of Laire's voice and the touch of her hand, he looked at her. His expression softened. "No...they wouldn't." He leaned forward to kiss her lips lightly, his fingers squeezing hers lightly to emphasize, "Thank you. Says Keats."
He sighed though after his defiance. "I suppose we should finish and head back to the mansion, says Emily." Then, reluctantly, he released her hand and started the job once more.
They were unfortunately unable to finish before Snake had to return to the manor but Laire was able to finish by herself. Snake's assistance had put a significant dent in the work and now was able to finish within an hour. By the time she arrived at the kitchen the others were already sitting around the table.
"There are tae baskets of acorns in th' kitchen Bard put them tae use if ye would, make pickin' them all up worth it." Sitting next tae Snake she placed a hand on his knee briefly before taking her portion of food.
Bard raised an eyebrow and scratched at his chin, fork still in hand. "Acorns? What do you make with acorns? Should I be looking into some Scottish dish?"
"They are nuts," Laire replied in surprise. "Ye ken….never mind jist ask Sebastian he ken explain what ye need tae do better than Ah ken as it involves more than one step."
She smirked as a scowl crossed Bard's face. She would never forgive him for what he said about Snake and she knew he had continued to insult him after that as well. Laire began to eat. She had skipped lunch today caring for William so she was very hungry and ate rapidly.
Part of Snake was still bothered by what the butler had said. Thankfully said butler wasn't there at the meal with them. Still, Snake didn't eat much. When he felt like he had enough to at least survive the night, and noticing that Laire had finished quickly, he pushed his plate away and stood, collecting his dishes to return to the sink.
He wanted to read one of the books with her tonight.
Following after Snake Laire put her plates in the sink as well. She put a hand on his shoulder rubbing gently. "Ye were nay hungry? Are ye feelin' alright? Ye arena sick are ye? Or is this abowt what Sebastian said?"
It was amazing how much calmer he felt just from her touch alone. His hand reached up and rested on hers, turning as he pressed his lips to her fingers. "It is about Black, yes...I was thinking...how odd it was that...Smile hasn't told me any updates, says Emily." He murmured so the others wouldn't hear. And, honestly, he wouldn't be surprised if the butler was nearby.
"He hasna? Perhaps he hasna found anythin' yet. There have been a lot of cases, maybe ye should ask him taemorrow. Ah need tae do something real afore we spend some time taegether. Ah will meet ye in yer room?"
Snake nodded at her words and her question. "I'll be waiting, says Keats." He offered her a small grin, something to show the break that she gave him from his pensive thoughts. Then he headed back to his room, placing the bag aside and laying out the two books on his bed. He spoke quietly to his friends, most of which seemed excited that they'd all be able to travel with him now.
Laire knocked sharply on the Earl's office door and heard the boy tell her to enter. She did so and the young lord looked at her with an annoyed expression for having interrupted his work.
"Yes, Laire? Have you caught another intruder?"
"Nay, Ah came tae ye abowt Snake…." Now that she was here this was suddenly very awkward. "His friends, th' ones ye are searchin' fur….ye arena searchin' fur them are ye? They are dead."
The Earl set down the papers in his hands and folded rested them against the armrests of the chair. "And what gives you that idea?"
"Ye are th' Queen's guard dog, th' Earl Phantomhive, an' they are circus folk ye would have found them by now. Also Ah know 'hat th' circus mission didna turn owt like ye wanted. People died an' yer clothes smelt like smoke, there was a fire, a big one. Am Ah right?"
"Yes. Snake's circus friends are dead, they tried to attack me so Sebastian killed them."
"Ah donna care th' reason, Ah care cause Snake is wonderin' why ye havena updated him. He is goin' tae ask ye taemorrow abowt it." Laire took a few steps towards the desk. "Ah donna know why ye took him on, Ah donna care, but Ah donna want him tae leave cause ye are lyin' tae him."
"So you would have me tell him the truth? That his friends were dead before he even came looking for them?"
"Nay, tell him a half truth. Tell him ye found owt his friends are dead or 'hat ye have a lead an' then in a few days tell him 'hat they are dead. Ye are the Earl Phantomhive ye ken figure somethin' owt."
A evil smirk crossed Ciel's face. "Very well. For someone who knows the sting of betrayal I am surprised that you are willing to lie to him so easily."
Laire walked to the door without answering then turned back to the Earl. "Ye know Ah sometimes forget 'hat it is Sebastian 'hat is th' demon an' nay ye. Lies are sometimes necessary ye should ken 'hat verra well wit' Lady Elizabeth."
Shutting the door behind her Laire hurried back to the servants' quarters and Snake.
Snake had changed into more comfortable clothes, slightly looser ones, as he had grown tired of the suit. Not only that, but the event that happened earlier that evening stuck to it like a vile scent. He didn't want to see it, to smell it, to feel it until he could wash it another day.
So when he heard familiar footsteps, he got off of his bed in his nightgown and opened the door before Laire could knock.
Snake was dressed in a nightgown when he opened the door and Laire smiled at how comfortable he looked. The suit always seemed so stiff on him but the loose gown made him look much better or at least more relaxed.
"Och ye are lookin' much betta," she said stepping inside and closing the door with her foot. Wrapping her arms around Snake's shoulders Laire placed a kiss against his lips. "So which book do ye want tae start wit'. Ah am partial tae either."
His arms instantly wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer as she shut the door. He wanted more than to just read the books now, but he resisted. He was actually quite interested in Wilde's book. "Perhaps we should start with the eerie novel. There are blankets and myself to curl against if you get scared...says Oscar." He paused. "And perhaps a bit of namesake, adds Keats."
"Och 'hat sounds perfect." Spying the books on the bed she pulled Snake over and picked up the book by Oscar Wilde. "Do ye want tae sit by th' fire or on th' bed? Ah think th' fire might have better lightin'."
"Fire it is, says Oscar." He placed the blankets over before the fireplace for them to sit on, for her to lean against him on. Just as he made to sit, there was a knock at the door. Giving it a curious look, then nodding at Laire, he walked over and answered it. The cook stood there in his own nightgown and a towel over his shoulder, a wide grin on his face. "Bard, says Oscar."
"So, Snake!" The American said, "I see you took my advice!" Before Snake could open his mouth, the man continued, "I saw the mark on Laire's neck earlier, don't be so shy! Good job man, that…"
Snake's cheek muscle twitched. He shut the door and heard the muffled noise behind the door.
Laire had scooted out of view of the door before Snake opened it and she was glad that she had. Her hands shot up to cover her mouth when she heard Bard's voice to smother her gasp. The door slammed and Laire looked at Snake. His back was still to her but she could only imagine the look on his face. Bard continued to knock on the door and Laire could hear him asking what was wrong.
She felt her cheeks tinged pink. The last thing she wanted was for Bard to find out her and Snake's relationship. He would relentlessly tease both of them and ask intimate and embarrassing questions.
"Make him go away," she hissed quietly to Snake.
There was a flicker of a devious gleam to his eyes. "As you wish, says Victor." Then he opened the door just enough to allow the large snake to slip out before shutting the door. A loud hiss, a yelp, and fleeing footsteps later, there was silence on the other side of the door.
Snake turned back to face the blushing Laire and smiled, full of mirth.
Laire laughed into her hands she was very close to bursting out with laughter but she knew Bard still might hear as she could be very loud. Finally she was able to pull her hands away but she was still grinning widely and her eyes were laughing like Snake's.
"'hat was wonderful," she said standing and walking over to him. "Mah hero."
She kissed Snake on the cheek. "Ye saved me from 'hat pryin' Yank...but what was he sayin' abowt advice?"
Snake returned her kisses with ease as he wrapped his arms around her waist. Oh, the advice. He grimaced slightly but decided to tell her. It wouldn't do to lie, after all. "In London earlier, he told me that...you would like me to be dominate, explains Keats." He murmured, deciding to leave out the part of breaking her like a horse; she already disliked Bard so much. It wouldn't do if she were to try and kill the cook.
"Be dominate?" Laire said questioningly, "it that why ye…."
She pressed her hand against his chest in imitation of Snake grabbed her breast. Her teeth caught her lower lips just a bit nervously. "Ye are retch Ah didna mind but it wasna 'hat ye were dominate. Ah….Ah liked 'hat Ah felt yer desire fur me in more than a kiss. It made me feel bonnie an'...wanted."
"I've wanted you for a while now, but I didn't want to push too hard, says Keats." Snake explained, sincerity in his voice. "And...I've always thought you were bonnie, adds Oscar." He leaned forward to kiss her, taking her hand in his and holding it to the side. His lips then caressed her palm.
A river of warmth ran through Laire at his words and his sweet kiss. She knew he wanted her. The state of his pants earlier was proof enough but to hear him say it was another thing. Laire's body relaxed at his gentle touch.
"Snake there is somethin' Ah need tae tell ye abowt mahself ken we sit?" She asked softly moving her other hand up to stroke his cheek.
He nodded slightly, enjoying her touch to his face. When he led her to the bed, as there was only one chair and even then it wasn't terribly comfortable, he stared into her gaze. "What is it, asks Oscar?" He ran through his head things she might want to say, but couldn't be certain any of them. Laire cleared her throat a bit nervously it was more awkward now that she was about to tell him.
"Well Oscar might have told ye already but Ah want tae explain better mahself and if he hasna then tell ye...As a witch there are certain provisions 'hat come wit' mah powers. A witch chooses these when she is learnin' it is th' way we stop from turnin' tae darkness or usin' our powers fur evil. But there is one thin' 'hat all witches must abide by an' 'hat is..." Laire felt her cheeks flame red.
"When we lose our virginity we are furever bonded tae 'hat person. 'tis doesna mean we must stay by them or owe them anythin' but 'tis...ye will always remember them an' love them. So 'tis verra important fur a witch tae chose carefully. Ah nearly gave it tae someone...th' man who betrayed me wit' th' rest of mah village. What Ah am sayin' Snake is 'hat Ah need tae be sure of everythin' afore Ah do more than kissin' wi't ye...even though mah body wants ye too, mah mind, mah spirit must be sure ye willna hurt me tae."
Laire looked at him and smiled sadly she hoped he understood.
Snake had listened with growing interest, his eyes widening slightly. That was interesting, he thought, but why did it have to be like that? Was it some sort of price to bear with the magic abilities?
Before he could think too deeply on it, she ended her confession with a sort of question. Would he pressure her for more before she was certain and ready, in other words. Snake's eyes flashed before he reached over to take her hands in his. "You are not telling me 'Never', and I certainly wouldn't want to rush you. In honesty, I am...new to it all as well, says Oscar." He paused, then swallowed. "I would be t-thrilled and...h-honored if you thought...I should be your f-first...as I think already...and p-possibly...the la-last...says...myself." He murmured softly, a sort of shyness in his gaze.
A soft smile crossed Laire's face at Snake's words. He was already doing better than Alein at the news, at the idea of the bonding. Where Alein had asked her why she was not sure already as they had been friends since childhood and had kept pestering her about it every time he came back from the University, Snake had immediately accepted her wish. It felt a lot knowing she had time to chose and he would respect that choice.
"Ah am verra much considerin' it Snake, Ah am jist scared an' worried." She rested her head against his shoulder. "Thank ye fur understandin'."
The light weight on his shoulder spread warmth through his body. It was such an intimate position to be in, one which he completed by wrapping his arm around her waist. He smiled a bit, his thumb rubbing a small circle on her hip. "Thank you, says Keats." At the hiss from Oscar, he chuckled quietly. "Are you ready to read, asks Oscar?"
"Aye," Laire said lifting her head. Taking Snake's hand she sat them down by the fire. Her legs tucked underneath her rather daintily Laire opened the book. Her brow furrowed at the English words. She really hoped Snake would not laugh at her.
"Th' studio was filled wit' th' rich odour o' roses, an' when th' light summer wind stirred a-aw-midst (amidst) th' trees o' th' gard-in (garden), there came throh-ugh (through) th' open door th' heavy 'cent o' th' lee-lie-lack (lilac), or th' mor' de-lee-kate (delicate) purfum' o' th' pink-floh-were-ing (flowering) thoh-rn (thorn)…."
For his part, Snake plopped onto the rug before the fire with her, his legs crossed so he could be comfortable. And, eventually, perhaps draw Laire against his chest and legs out to act as her chair. In the back of his mind, Snake wondered what it would be like to sprawl over Scotland grass and hear her read a book in her own language. Perhaps on a sunny day, so he and all his friends could be warm without worry.
Leaning to the side after she finished the first paragraph, he spoke, "From the corner of the divan of Persian saddle-bags on which he was lying, smoking, as was his custom, innumerable cigarettes, Lord Henry Wotton could just catch the gleam of the honey-sweet and honey-coloured blossoms of a laburnum, whose tremulous branches seemed hardly able to bear the burden of a beauty so flamelike as theirs; and now and then the fantastic shadows of birds in flight flitted across the long tussore-silk curtains that were stretched in front of the huge window, producing a kind of momentary Japanese effect, and making him think of those pallid, jade-faced painters of Tokyo who, through the medium of an art that is necessarily immobile, seek to convey the sense of swiftness and motion. The sullen murmur of the bees shouldering their way through the long unmown grass, or circling with monotonous insistence round the dusty gilt horns of the straggling woodbine, seemed to make the stillness more oppressive. The dim roar of London was like the bourdon note of a distant organ." He paused, his voice which rose and fell like a melody changing suddenly to his normal neutral tone. "Says Oscar."
Laire's hands tightened on the book. Snake was so much better reading English than she was. There were no pauses in his words or mispronunciations.
"In th' centa o' th' room, klamped tae an upretch ease-el, stood th' full-length purtrait o' a young man o' extra-ohr-deenary (extraordinary) pur-son-al be-uty, an' in fron' o' it, some lit-el (little) distance away, was sittin' th' art-tist himself, Bah-seel (Basil) 'allward, whose sud-deen disappearance some years agae (ago) caused, at th' time, such public excitement an' gae ree-se tae so many stran-geh (strange) cohn-ject-tures (conjectures)...Ah am sorry Ah told ye Ah am nay good at reading English novels."
He had been listening intently as she read, picturing the scene in his mind. Then she broke off and apologized suddenly. Blinking twice, as if awoken from a dream, he looked at her instead of the book.
"You're doing fine, Laire...I can understand you, you haven't mispronounced anything...keep reading, says Oscar." He spoke gently, offering encouragement. Then, as a second thought, he added with a slight grin, "I'm sure I would sound different if I tried to read in another language, says Keats."
"A-aye," Laire said feeling the heat rising in her cheeks. "Ah will read th' next ain then….As th' paintur looked at th' grah-ci-us (gracious) an' coh-m-ly (comely) foh-rm he had so skeel-ful-ly (skilfully) mee-r-ohred (mirrored) in his art, a smile o' pleh-ah-sur passed across his face, an' seemed aboh-t (about) tae lee-nger there. But he suddenly started up, an' cloh-sin' his eyes, placed his feen-gurs (fingers) u-poh-n (upon) th' lids, as thoh-ugh he soh-ught tae eem-pree-son wit'in his brain some cur-ee-oh-us (curious) dream frohm which he feared he mee-t (might) ah-wah-k (awake)..."
The rest of the night had gone well, Snake thought. Though not quite as..exhilarating or heavy with kisses as with the chocolate bunny, their reading session had helped them both grow, together. At least, that was what Snake thought. Perhaps he was reading too much into it - puns aside - but he thought it went...very well.