"A letter from Lady Kendall has arrived in the mail today among your other letters," Sebastian said, dropping a stack of mail on Ciel's desk with a knowing smile. Rolling his eyes at the butler's impertinence, Ciel picked up the envelope and opened it curiously, reading it over. A smile twitched at his lips, but didn't quite cross his face yet. "May I inquire as to what it says?" Sebastian asked with the most innocent of voices.
"It's an invitation, if you must know. The Atkins family is holding a formal dance to celebrate the selling of their company, and we're invited." Ciel put down the letter.
"Interesting," Sebastian said, bowing slightly. "Shall I ensure that your formal clothes are clean and unwrinkled?"
"Yes."
Sebastian went to leave. "However, a quick question, my lord," he said, turning around just as he was opening the door to go. "This is purely a decision made on business, correct? To observe Lord Atkins further?"
"Of course," Ciel said. Lying came to him easily, although it was a half-lie rather than a total one. Was it purely for the sake of observing Lord Atkins? No, of course not. There was the factor of Lady Kendall to think about, after all. But it was partially the reason, and that was good enough justification for Ciel. He was still highly confused and slightly in denial about his feelings. Perhaps this dance would help straighten some of those things out.
Naturally, Sebastian didn't believe a word—he knew Ciel too well—but he bowed. "I was simply ensuring your motives, my lord. After all, what would become of this house if a Phantomhive servant didn't know something as simple as that?" Smirking, he left the room.
Ciel rolled his eyes. "Demons," he muttered in resignation, shaking his head.