Chapter 25

Birthdays were an important aspect in life. People knew that the day they were born was a special one and it was where others celebrated their existence. Some found it as a milestone to being able to do things they were restricted from before. Others thought of it as getting closer to death.

Viola had a different opinion on birthdays.

Personally, she loved it when her family's birthdays came around. For her brother and sister's birthdays, her parents threw parties that were celebrated with their respective friends. With her parents they cut a cake before the adults went out for a special dinner date. Being able to see those she loved grow older brought her joy she couldn't explain.

This couldn't be said for her own birthday. Viola saw her birthday as an achievement to being alive. All the danger in her life taught her she was likely to die one day. She rarely enjoyed the day she was born and never told anyone, save her family, when her birthday was. As a result, her mother respected her wishes to let her spend it as she wished. She also left a cupcake by her bed to wish a Happy Birthday. Other than that, she spent it like any other day. Therefore, nothing special ever happened on her birthdays.

So, the morning of April seventeenth she was more than disgruntled with that day's activities.

Viola scowled where she was seated in the servants' wagon that trailed behind Ciel's fancier carriage. Being an open carriage, she was forced to endure the loud crowd volume the more they ventured through the harbor.

Two weeks ago, Ciel informed the household he would be going on a ship bound for New York, America. He had been invited by Lizzy's family to travel on a boat for three weeks at sea. Seeing as how that also meant Edward was going, he invited Viola and Bastian. Since he was told Viola had nearly died during the dinner party, he was more than adamant to try to win her love. Apparently, the thought of losing her made him realize how much he loved her. Or so he said.

Now there they were with packed bags to head on a ship about to take its maiden voyage.

"Would ya look at all these people?" Baldroy remarked, marveled by the crowd lingering in the port. From the amount of people in day clothes and lack of luggage, most people wanted to see the S.S Campina off. He was the one driving the carriage, so he was prone to losing his temper when the foot traffic made it hard to maneuver through. "C'mon! Git outta the way! We got actual passengers!"

"Everyone's so happy," Finny said, excited. He turned to someone seated next to Viola. "You ever seen this many people before, Snake?"

"No, this is the first, says Emily," Snake of the Noah's Ark circus repeated softly. He sat next to Viola, staring at the crowd in awe. Viola did her best to ignore Snake as best as possible.

Not long after the fateful dinner party, they were taken back when they gained a new servant (along with the unexpected 'revival' of Sebastian during his funeral). Viola didn't know what to say as she saw their new footman was Snake.

She hadn't seen Snake or thought of the Noah's Ark circus in months. She hadn't wanted to think about it. Any time she did guilt ate at her conscience like a dog on a bone. When she and Snake saw one another neither knew what to say. And she hadn't.

For two weeks.

The coward she was, Viola avoided Snake to the best of her ability. Not once did she find herself alone with him. They only saw one another when surrounded by other people. If he did try to start a conversation with her (or through one of his snakes), she would run away.

"You shouldn't avoid him," Bastian commented one day. "Snake wants to be your friend. He doesn't know what really happened to Joker and the others."

It was for that reason Viola ran away. She was afraid more than friendly words would spill from her mouth. Besides, if there was one thing she was good at, it was avoiding. She had years of running away-more than enough to last her lifetimes.

Stuck on a ship, Viola hoped to avoid him as best she could.

Their carriages managed to make its way through the foot traffic. More than once they threw dirty looks at Baldroy's cursing. They came to a stop near the docking bay.

"Alright! We're here!" Baldroy whooped.

"So this is the Campina." Finny had to tilt his head back to take in the massive passenger ship. The ship was a gigantic size weighing an impossible amount that Viola wasn't sure how it was built in the first place. The design was the same as the standard passenger ships but built on a larger scale.

"Sure is huge."

It's no Titanic,Viola thought as she climbed out with Bastian's help. It was hard to get out on her own dressed the way she was. Bastian managed to convince her to wear the dress Edward gave to her as a courting gift. She hadn't thrown it away given how Ms. Hopkins worked to make it. Her hair was curled and half-hidden beneath a matching hat adorned with the dress' colors. She looked lovely next to Bastian, also dressed in a nice waistcoat and black slacks. Still, being dress like a noble is downright strange.

She knew she was dressed up to display her status as a guest. Still, wasn't this a bit much? Mey-Rin even packed her luggage with her nice clothes. That wouldn't look right when she was going to stay in second-class.

"Come now. Why so down?" Bastian asked. He stood besides her staring at the ship. His smile was edged in excitement. "I thought you'd be more excited. We're traveling to the country you grew up in."

"My excitement can barely be contained," Viola deadpanned.

"Your sarcasm will not dampen my spirits."

"Good for you. Then, you can be excited for the both of us."

"What has gotten into you? I know you are not thrilled to be here. That should not mean you can have that attitude."

"Sorry. I'm not feeling well," she lied. Her birthday often left her tired and lonely. Not seeing her mother's traditional cupcake made her physically homesick. She missed her mother and the homesickness was taking its toll.

"Oh? Well, I'm sure when we board the ship you will feel better."

She stared at him. His unexpected excitement threw her off.

"What's gotten into you? I didn't think you'd be excited to be stuck on a ship for three weeks."

"I want to enjoy being out of the manor. Also, I have always wished to travel. Even if it is America we are going to," Bastian commented offhandedly.

Viola didn't believe him for a second. That couldn't be the reason why Bastian acted like a five year old about to give out a secret only he knew. In fact that was exactly how he acted. Arisu would be the same during Christmas when they gave their gifts to their parents. Given it was her birthday, which Bastian never learned, it couldn't be that. She hadn't told him it was her birthday.

She pushed her paranoia aside when Sebastian called them. Their luggage was being carried away to be stored in their rooms.

It was time to board.

Viola and Bastian followed Ciel, Sebastian, and Snake up the steps where the First Class passengers boarded. The Phantomhive servants waved them off, wishing them a safe voyage.

Before long, they were on the deck. Viola leaned over the railing as the ship's horn blew to signal their departure. The crowd below, a mass of waving limbs and cheering voices, yelled well wishes to their loved ones. She waved at them, a smile on her face.

Maybe this trip won't be so bad, Viola thought. It wasn't every day she got to travel out to sea. Who knew? She might enjoy the trip after all.

She could only hope nothing happened.

xxx

"I swear you did this to annoy me," Viola said to Ciel vexed.

Ciel shrugged.

"If I am to suffer, you are aware you will as well."

"But to subject me to her?" Viola shot a significant look to Madame Red, who was currently fawning over Bastian. Dressed in a dapper suit, he was once again the sophisticated noble he was meant to be.

The ship set sail bound on its journey to America. Ciel and his four servants were milling about on the deck to explore. That was when they saw a shock of vivid red. Next thing they knew Madame Red and her butler, Conrad, were upon them. Conrad stood behind his mistress, sending Bastian's desperate look apologetic smiles.

Viola whirled to Sebastian, seething. The demon hardly batted an eyelash.

"Did you know Madame Red would be here?" she demanded.

"No, Viola. We had no clue the Madame would be here," Sebastian answered, calm as the ocean blue. "It is a surprise to find her on this ship. I find it presumptuous of you to say that."

"Only you and Ciel would know she'd be here."

"And you would pin the blame on me for this?"

"That's-" She bit her tongue lest any rude insult came forth. Her annoyance and newfound hatred for the demon was difficult to deny. Viola despised him during the months of companionship. It was recently she understood why. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves. "Sorry. I'm not feeling well."

"Are you seasick? says Wordsworth," Snake repeated. She wondered if he had one of his friends on him.

She shook her head.

"No. I'm just feeling-"

"Unhappy?" Madame Red released Bastian from her conversation. She was dressed in a lighter gown that allowed better mobility. It was beautiful and not as gaudy as her clothes normal were. She smiled, looking her arm through Viola's. Her warmth pressed through their close proximity. "I'm surprised, Viola, these men aren't waiting on you hand and foot. It's your special day, after all."

Madame Red winked while the boys were left in the dark. Viola blinked, then understood the knowing glint.

"Special day?" Bastian echoed. "What is she talking about?"

"Why, it's her-"

"So, Conrad! How's my good friend?" Viola interjected loudly. The poor butler endured the stares switched from her to him. She sent him a silent apology. "I hope he is doing well? He isn't the type to keep up with people of Madame Red's nature."

"Ah, the young master? He is doing well," Conrad answered, unfaltering. He went along with her ploy to steer the conversation. "You are correct in saying he is not compatible with the Madame's nature."

"He should be thanking me for trying to include in social activities," she huffed, daintily. "He rarely leaves home and when he does he's gone all day. It might be due to my work, but I feel we hardly see one another."

"He's a recluse. I bet he spends most of his time in the library or study, right?" Viola smiled at Conrad knowingly. He returned it.

"Yes. You know him rather well, Ms. Viola."

"Who are you talking about?" Ciel asked. The way his eye lowered to a glare reminded Viola of when Patchy was about to kill her for not studying for an important test.

She stifled a laugh.

"We are talking about a young boy I am taking care of," Madame Red answered, gleeful. "I've grown fond of Viola and Bastian, so I had adopted a boy off the streets like you had. He has brightened up my dreary life since then."

"When did you do that?"

"After last Christmas. He's the son I've always wanted! Though, he could do to smile more. Why, when I told him about this trip he gave me the most precious smile before asking if he could come along."

Viola's smile froze. She fixed it on Conrad in astonishment.

"I'm sorry. What did she say?"

"Yes. My darling boy is on this ship. In fact he went to go explore-" Madame Red informed them. She never got to finish.

"Where is he? Oh, gosh! I get to hang out with him!" Viola took back her arm, grinning in delight. "I'll meet you back for dinner!"

She took off down the deck, ignoring their stares. Who cared? She got to hang out with Patchy again. There were no questions of why he thought being on the same ship as Sebastian was a good idea. All she wanted to do was talk and tease one of her friends again.

Being around Ciel and Patchy were two different experiences. Hanging out with Ciel was more like waiting on hand and foot for him. They had a strictly work relationship. With Patchy, his much older demon self, well, he still treated her like a servant. The difference was he gave her sweets all the time and helped her at school. Most times, and more importantly, he kept her out of trouble. She owed him more times than she could count.

It would be nice to be treated as an equal instead of as a female servant.

Viola walked the length of the ship's First Class deck. At the time many women were out on their afternoon walk, gossiping about this and that. It was all so trivial. The deck was long and wrapped around, so it felt as if she walked a mile. A third of the way she was about to call it quits.

Where the heck is he? she petulantly thought. She threw herself down on a bench strategically spaced up and down the walkways. There was someone else seated at the far end. A man, she guessed, by the looks of his black suit. His face was hidden behind a book, A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens. He wore a simple top hat. Since he didn't look up, she was unbothered as she huffed. Darn it, Patchy. You're supposed to be predictable. Where are you?

It was a big ship. What did she expect? She'd be lucky to even see one hair on a ship carrying a slew of people. It was like finding a rare species of fish among a school of trout. She wasn't that lucky. Not only that, Patchy was good at hiding when he didn't want to be found. Most likely he had to do that on a ship with Sebastian and his past self around.

"Would you please stop sighing? You're distracting me."

Viola shifted her head to the man beside her. It took her a second to realize once the book was removed it was the very person she sought for. He scowled at her, half his face hidden behind a brown haired fringe. Talk about hiding in plain sight!

"I'm blind," Viola blurted out. Her mouth ran faster than her mind. "I'm a blind person. How did I not see you there? Are you a ninja or Waldo?"

"Yes, you are blind. No, I am not a ninja or Waldo. You're simply the type to overlook details," Patchy replied dryly. He hardly batted an eyelash.

"Can you blame me? You're wearing the most boring wig I've ever seen. Who dressed you up like that?"

"Conrad on Aunt Ann's orders. He's not that bad a fellow once you get to know him. His sense of humor is like your's."

"He's a saint for putting up with Madame Red. I can't imagine living with that woman." She shuddered. She could barely handle her for one day. Shaking her head, she attempted to change the subject. "Anyway, what are you doing here? I thought you wanted to avoid your younger self and Sebastian?"

"I did. Just for today I decided to go against my better judgment."

"Why today?"

Patchy wordlessly reached into his suit jacket. From it, he produced a medium-sized box tied by a bright red ribbon. He held it out to her.

"I should start by saying, Happy Birthday."

Viola's jaw dropped. She stared at Patchy, then the box. Mechanically, she accepted it.

"How did you-When did-" she stuttered.

"I find out when was your birthday? The internet. More specifically, Melissa and Arthur. He mentioned your birthday when we were messaging each other on Facebook about Riley's birthday party."

He shrugged nonchalantly.

Arthur…Of course. Her ex-boyfriend would know today was her birthday. He was one of the few amongst her friends she told. She wasn't surprised Arthur told their other friends. It was natural to share information. She hadn't expected for Patchy to remember or even get her a gift.

What had he gotten her anyway? Viola wondered what a guy like Patchy bought for her. She had to know. She pulled the ribbon to loosen the box and lifted the lid.

Inside was a silver locket. It was in the shape of a circle and had a purple sun etched on the front. Taking it out of the box, she turned it over to the back where she found a small windup pin. She twisted it and, after searching for the catch on the side, opened it. A delicate tune filled the air. A corner of her lips quirked up.

"And at last I see the light. And it's like the fog has lifted," Viola hummed. She grinned. "Wow, Ciel. I didn't think you'd remember that was my favorite scene."

"How could I not? You're always humming the song during English," he grumbled.

"Because it's a good song! First time I've liked a Disney princess song in a long time."

"That doesn't mean it is not annoying to hear after awhile."

"You have no appreciation for catchy songs." She snapped the locket closed, ending the music. Her hands touched the smooth silver plating. "This is a really nice gift. How'd you even get it anyway?"

"Where else would you get a music box version of that song?" Patchy asked, rolling his single visible eye to the sky. It was as if he were asking God for forgiveness for her stupidity. "I'm the one who made it. The music box as well as the locket."

Viola whistled. "Damn! Where'd you learn how to do that?"

"You'd be surprised what you can learn after years of boredom and too much time on your hands."

"Does this boredom not prevent you from telling certain women about birthdays?"

"I've no idea what you mean."

"Bullshit! You're the one who told Madame Red it was my birthday. She almost told everyone else."

"Will you keep it down?" Patchy hissed. He threw her a hard glare, shifting his gaze to the several scandalized looks they got. "God, your language is deplorable. You'll get us both kicked out of First Class with that mouth of your's."

"Let them! I can't believe you told her. She'll expect me to celebrate it," Viola bemoaned.

"I thought you liked being at the center of attention," he said, slightly confused and a smidge curious. "Wouldn't you lap up all the special attention you earn on this day? Most people do."

"No, I hate my birthday. I don't like celebrating it. How could you tell her?"

"I was trying to do you a favor since you went through the traumatic experience of being poisoned," Patchy huffed. He stood to his feet and pulled Viola up. "What's done is done. You may as well as face the music now."

"What music? Oh, God, did Madame Red tell everyone else?" she asked, horrified.

"I'm not supposed to tell you," he said. He looped her arm around her own. He began to lead her down the deck as if they were on a daily stroll rather than anything else, "but Aunt Ann planned a surprise party. Well, more like a tea party. She informed the Midfords a few days ago, so expect presents and a cake."

"If it's a surprise, why tell me this?"

"I told you. I thought you would enjoy the surprise except you won't. I like surprising you, but not when it upsets you."

"Oh." Viola hadn't expected Patchy to be so considerate of her feelings to the point he would ruin a surprise party. She smiled. "Wow, Patchy. That's really nice of you."

"Hmph. Don't expect this to last. Come tomorrow, I'll ignore your existence."

"Wouldn't dream of it." She was happy enough to have her friend there. She didn't mind if he had nothing but scathing remarks on his lips.

Patchy led her down the length of the ship. The two talked about anything that came to mind from her grades ("You think I'll need a tutor after we get back? I barely remember anything I learned.") to his daily life living with Madame Red ("We play chess every night. She thinks playing against me will help her improve against my younger self."). They spoke like they would on the way home from school. All of it seemed so normal. She almost believed they were back in their time had it not been for the period clothing.

Time passed quickly as it always did during their conservation. Viola liked her time with Patchy. There was something about being with him she never got around Melissa or Arthur. Perhaps she liked it because she knew beneath his cold persona, Patchy had a sense of humor and had an insight to people almost no one had. She liked to think so.

Before long, Patchy stopped by a pair of doors. Viola deduced by the people leaving and entering, it was a gathering place. He opened the door, allowing her to enter first. She saw it was a tea room since there were several round tables placed in the long room. On these tables were teacups and towards holding pastries.

On one of the tables she found the Phantomhive family with Madame Red and the Midford Family. Viola visibly flinched on instinct seeing Edward and Madame Red together. She thought about escaping but a hand on her back pushed her forward. She stumbled and very nearly ran into a waiter. Thankfully, she caught herself on the nearest table corner. This startled the people seated there (a woman with her two young sons).

"Sorry!" Viola apologized.

The mother shot her a dirty look while her sons snickered at her clumsiness.

Cheeks burning, she glanced back at her acquaintances' table. To her dismay they stared at her in various perplexing looks. Edward smiled upon seeing her. Without much of a choice she approached the table.

"Good day, Lady Marquis, Lady Elizabeth, Lord Edward," Viola greeted, curtseying perfectly to the group. She had to if she wanted to survive Lady Francis' hawk-like gaze. That woman was judging her. She just knew it.

"Viola!" Edward rose out of his seat positively ecstatic. He looked as if he wanted to grab her hand to kiss it. In front of his mother he kept himself polite and bowed. "I am glad you were able to attend this trip. It pleases me to see you are well."

"And I am delighted to see you are well, too."

His smile widened. He would have kept on smiling blissfully had they not heard a cough. Viola turned. It came from a man in about his forties. His blonde hair was the same shade as Edward's (far lighter than Viola or Bastian's). Save for the thick mustache on his upper lip, his face was clean shaven and held very few wrinkles. He made for an intimidating figure.

"Ah! Father, may I introduce Ms. Viola Dupree?" Edward introduced. One of his hands touched the small of her back. She tensed on reflex. "Ms, Dupree, this is my father, Alexis, Marquis Midford."

Father? Shit! Viola fidgeted where she stood. She was meeting the other half of Edward's parents. At this point she wasn't sure if Lady Francis wanted her son to marry her. The deciding factor was what his father said. More than anything she hoped he didn't like her as a match to his son.

"It's an honor to meet you, Lord Midford," Viola said, curtseying.

Lord Alexis stood from his seat. He said nothing as he approached her, staring her down. Viola swallowed, feeling intimidated. The man was physically built like he was still in his twenties. She may have been thought to be invincible, but she knew she couldn't beat him.

That's why when he smiled brightly much like Lizzy would she was caught off guard. He grabbed her hand and kissed her knuckles.

"So you're the young lady my son is the distracted by," Lord Alexis chuckled. He released her hand. "You're as lovely as Edward described. You are just as cute as my future son-in-law. I'd love to have you be part of our family."

Viola was speechless. His personality contradicted his fierce appearance. She had to think for a few seconds for a response.

"Yes, I'm, ah, that girl. But I'm afraid it's not certain if I'll be in your family."

He nodded. "I know. I've heard about the bet for your hand. But, I'm certain Edward will be the one to succeed."

"I don't know, Alexis. From the way things are going, Sebastian may win," Madame Red said, slyly. She grinned at Sebastian standing loyally behind Ciel's chair. Viola swallowed as his hair was, once again, slid back in that rare hairstyle. Why did he have to look so attractive? He was better off in his messy hairstyle. "So far they spend more time together than Edward. They may fall in love."

"If I recall, Ms. Dupree is not interested in Sebastian," said Lady Francis. She sent a cold glare at the pleasantly smiling butler.

"I'd rather not talk about my relationship with my colleague." Viola shrugged. Since she was trying to act as ladylike as possible, it was a simple raise of her shoulder. Like Lady Francis said. She wasn't interested in Sebastian. That didn't stop him from being interested in her. She wasn't sure if he actually liked her or if he was doing this thing as a joke. That hurt more than it should have.

Her words brightened up Edward's demeanor. He sent the butler a smug smile. Sebastian's mouth twitched, yet remained the same. Viola liked to imagine he was going to break his 'perfect' butler appearance.

"Then, my son has a chance! Come, sit!" Lord Alexis placed a hand on her shoulder and guided her into a chair between his two children. His grip suggested his hidden strength. The man was a teddy bear, but he could turn into a fierce Grizzly bear at a moment's notice. Edward pushed in the chair before taking his seat by her side. His father also seated himself. Viola glanced around the table, realizing Bastian wasn't there. She wondered where he was? He most likely wasn't there to avoid anyone recognizing him in a public place. Just as Patchy didn't follow her to avoid Sebastian. "Tell my wife and I more about you. What's this I hear about you being related to the missing Emrys heir, Sebastian?"

"I thought you would have heard about me from Lady Midford, Madame Red, and Lord Edward?" She cast them an uneasy glance. No doubt they would have told exaggerated stories. It wouldn't be the first time it happened to her. Her 'Demon of Justice' stories could attest to that.

"Indeed, they have. However, I prefer to hear it straight from the source."

"Father is the Head of the Order of the British Empire," Lizzy delightfully informed her. "So, he prefers to meet people before judging them. He doesn't believe any gossip or stories until he can see them for himself."

"Oh, is that so?" That was pretty admirable. No wonder, considering the man was a Knight. Chivalrous until the end, indeed. She respected that. Tapping her finger on her wrist in her lap, she thought. "There's not much to tell, my lord. I am a simple servant of Lord Phantomhive alongside my brother. I was taken in by him and offered a job and a home. As for the rumor about me being related to Lord Sebastian Emrys, that is true. I came to America with my brother after our parents died. My mother was a cousin of Lady Francesca of Emrys and sent us to England to be with them. But, we got lost and ended up on the streets. We were able to meet my aunt because of Lord Phantomhive."

Lord Alexis nodded. His face softened in sympathy.

"I see. You did rather well to survive in such an environment. I can see my son-in-law has taken good care of you."

"Yes. The young master is very kind."

"Of course! Ciel is very kind to his servants," Lizzy chimed. She hugged Ciel's arm, who gave a tentative smile.

"My nephew has a heart of gold," Madame Red chortled, fanning herself.

"Dear," Lady Francis said. Her husband immediately paid attention. She nodded at Viola, "now that you met her, what is your verdict?"

Lord Alexis eyed Viola once more. She had to do everything to hold his gaze and not squirm under it. Now that she knew he was a Knight she was afraid he would draw a sword and stab her. Finally, after a few tense moments, he nodded.

"She is from a good family and has a good character," he decided. "She will be the perfect wife for our son. And what do you think, dear?"

Lady Francis delicately sniffed.

"You know my opinion. I, too, think the same."

Viola's eyes widened as Lizzy and Edward beamed in happiness. What?

"Wh-What? You are alright with your son courting me?" she asked, disbelieved. She knew Lord Alexis was alright with being in their family. It was hard to tell what Lady Francis thought of her. The woman was so strict she didn't seem to like anything that broke tradition.

"I talk to Francis about you a lot, dear." Madame Red winked at her, smiling in achievement. "I did nothing but put in a good word for you. Francis admitted with your fighting spirit and the fact Edward has to prove his love by getting to know you had her agreeing."

Lady Francis nodded.

"While I was reluctant to allow him to court a servant, the fact you are of a good family and are willing to protect those you love has made me see no other women is suitable."

Viola had no idea what to say. Lady Francis, a woman that scared even Ciel, actually liked her enough to let Edward marry her. Was this really happening? She glanced between Edward's bright expression and his mother's suddenly soft gaze when she looked at her. This was real. This was really happening. Edward was going to court her.

Oh, God.

"Then, it's settled!" Lord Alexis waved his hand. A waiter nearby stepped to his side. "Could you bring out the cake? The one we specifically ordered."

"Yes, sir." The waiter walked off to do as he was ordered.

Viola watched his back, her dread coming back to haunt her. Those fears were confirmed when he came back with a cart. On top of it was a two tier cake. It was white and decorated in sugared flowers. Green frosting vines snaked up from the big round base to reach the colorful bouquet settled on the edge of the smaller first tier. The bouquet led off to smaller flower buds to encircle the edges until they barely touched at the ends. By the bouquet and in big rose coloured letters were the words, Happy Birthday, Viola. Next to the cake was a small pile of presents wrapped in bright paper and ribbons.

"Happy Birthday, Viola!" the table except for Ciel, Sebastian, and Snake chimed. Those three were astonished.

"Birthday? It's your birthday?" Ciel demanded.

Viola's face burned at his accusing eye. She sunk into her chair. Sebastian merely raised an eyebrow while Snake was shell shocked. Edward and Lizzy sent him a confused look.

"You didn't know, Ciel?" Lizzy asked, adorably confused.

"I-I never told the young master or anyone in our household." Her ears were now hot as they gasped in surprise. "I-It's not like my birthday really matters! It's already enough the young master gave me permission to come on this trip. I didn't want any special treatment today."

"Did Bastian know?" Sebastian questioned, eyes glinting.

"Edward told him in private when he invited Viola. I was the one to tell Edward," Madame Red answered. She sent Viola a curious look. "I learned of her birthday from my young charge, who is rather close to her. I, in turn, told Edward, who told Bastian. I thought it odd how Edward said Bastian was surprised to learn of her birthday. We planned for this surprise alongside the Midfords. I only discovered you did not know, Ciel, when I brought it up earlier."

"How old is she?"

"…Eighteen," Viola reluctantly admitted. As soon as she said the age, it hit her. Eighteen. Viola was officially an adult back in her time. She was allowed to buy alcohol on her own, move out of her house, do anything she wanted! It was dizzying to think she was considered an adult now. It was…disappointing. She thought adulthood would be more exciting. Living the way she had for the past few months, she already acted like an independent adult.

"You just turned eighteen?" Edward exclaimed, taken back. "I thought you were sixteen!"

"No. You might have thought I was younger because, compared to my brother, I act childishly around him."

Madame Red clapped her hands, smiling brightly at the news.

"Eighteen? That is the right age for Edward! I knew this marriage was well matched."

"Did you know she was that old?" Lady Francis questioned Ciel, taking in his shocked silence.

"I believed her to be around fifteen," Ciel admitted. He smirked at Viola. It matched his older self's mischievousness perfectly. "She acts as if she were a young child next to her brother I truly believed she was only but a few years older than I. I'm surprised that I act more mature than her."

You'd never be taken seriously when you're barely over a hundred and fifty-two centimeters tall. Viola pouted, holding in the snark about his height. He didn't hit a growth spurt until his later teenage years. Even she was taller than him at that age.

All joking aside, Viola knew she'd later be questioned about herself later. She had been working for Ciel Phantomhive for almost a year by this time. He would surely demand why she never shared personal information like her age or birthday when even Bastian told everyone. She knew it was strange to have kept such information to herself, but she never thought it would matter.

Still, she was touched by Madame Red and the Midford's gesture. This was the first time since her dad died that she had loved ones around to celebrate her birthday. After her dad died, her mother had no time to throw parties for her. She didn't have friends before she was thirteen anyway, so there was never need for a party. Looking at the smiles and happiness, Viola wondered why she wondered why she hated something like this.

It was the first time she felt loved by those outside her family. It was nice. She hoped in the future it would stay this way.

xxx

The next two days on the ship passed by in a mind numbing blur.

Viola tried to make the most of her time as a guest other than a servant. She and Bastian were allowed to freely roam around to their heart's content in relaxation. Though, they did become stressed due to one incident.

They had been lounging on the First Class deck, taking in the salty air and enjoying the sun. Viola had been leaning over the railing to look down at the ocean as the ship passed. She had never been on a ship before and was wondering how such a large metal ship could stay afloat. That was when a gasp from Bastian brought her back. The next thing she knew Bastian was tugging her into the ship through the nearest door. They had entered what looked to be a game room where people could play cricket or play shuffleboard. No one was inside the room, save for them.

Viola was about to demand why he would do that until he saw his pale face. She got her answer when she glanced out the window as a large group passed. Immediately, she recognized Bastian's mother and sisters. Alyssa held the arm of a young woman dressed in black. It took Viola a second to recognize the woman as Lucinda Walters. Behind them trailed two gentlemen, one of which was William Walters. The other man was a proud looking gentleman with a hardness in his eyes that reminded Viola of her grandmother. The two men were in deep conversation. This contrasted from the smiles and laughs of the women, who were having a grand time. The group had passed by the window when she looked, so all she saw was their backs and profiles.

She didn't need to ask Bastian why they hid.

The appearance of the Emrys family and the Walter siblings spooked Bastian so much he was too paranoid to walk around the ship. He was so certain he would encounter Lucinda, William, or his father, Allen, that happened to be the gentleman William was speaking to. He especially wanted to avoid his father. Because of it, he was always by Viola's side.

She didn't mind his sudden clingy attitude. It was good for him to stay alert on vacation. Besides, he also gave her a good excuse to stay away from First Class territory.

Much of her days were spent exploring the lower decks. Both Patchy and Bastian accompanied her. Bastian had been surprised to see Patchy there but tolerated his presence. They went through each room accessible to the public to escape boredom. Every now and then Viola and Bastian had tea with Ciel, Madame Red, or the Midfords. For meals they spent solely with the Baroness to keep her company since Patchy refused to eat with her.

Never mind the fact Patchy would want to have her for dinner instead.

All in all their days of fun were mundane and dull.

Until the third night on board.

Viola found herself in the First Class passenger lounge where a party was being held. She held Edward's arm, who was talking to her about some gossip he heard during the day. She had half an ear on the conversation as she scanned the crowd.

The lounge reminded her of the grand staircase in the movie, Titanic. Except this was more spacious. The ceiling was much higher, the chandelier hanging at the zenith. It resembled more of a ballroom so table full of freshly prepared food could take advantage without being too squished together. Waiters in white jackets walked like ghosts between groups of rich and powerful people.

Standing in the midst of it all, Viola couldn't believe she was a part of it. The luxury and extravagance were things she believe she'd never be a part of. Her mother had her take debutante lessons just as she had in her early teens. This was more to comfort herself than to help Viola. Samantha Sohma may have been disowned from the Emrys family, but she believed one day her daughters may enter the socialite scene. Viola decided that thing wasn't what she wanted and went to typical house parties instead. If Arisu wanted that, then she wouldn't stop her younger sister.

Still, this is pretty boring, Viola thought, absentmindedly smiling and nodding to what Edward said. Something about Lucinda and other gossip. She honestly didn't care about noble talk. She was used to a different level of gossip from break ups to sex scandals. She didn't care about old and new money scandals! Someone get me outta here!

Her prayers were answered when Edward was invited by other young men to the billiards room. Her suitor was hesitant to go, but she convinced him they had days together. What was one night with the boys?

Bidding her goodbye, Viola was left to her own devices. She heaved a relieved sigh.

"Enjoying yourself?" said Sebastian to her right. He suddenly appeared by her side, grinning. Behind him stood a nervous looking Snake.

"You could say that," she answered, vague. This was the first time during the trip they directly spoke to one another. Eying the plate of food he had in hand, she scanned the crowd. "Where's the young master? I haven't seen him much lately."

"The last time you saw him was on your birthday, was it not?"

The way he specifically mentioned her birthday raised Viola's intrigue. It sounded like he was genuinely upset he didn't tell her it was her birthday. Maybe it was her imagination?

"Yeah. I figured he was spending time with Lizzy like I am with Edward."

"You are correct," he said. He flicked his gaze to the crowd. She followed his sight. Standing not a few meters away was Ciel, who looked as bored and fatigued as she felt. "I suspect he is not as impressed by this vacation as you are."

"I wouldn't blame him."

Sebastian's smile turned to amusement. Chuckling to himself, he approached Ciel. Viola expected Snake to follow, but she noticed he was focused on something. That's when she saw a few feet away several women were whispering to one another while staring at Snake. She couldn't hear what they said, but from the frown she knew it bothered him.

"Don't listen to them," Viola advised, speaking to Snake for the first time in two weeks. She smiled encouragingly. "Women are superficial. They're just jealous they don't have the ability to be different from their friends."

This didn't cheer Snake up at all. He hung his head, probably thinking he was better off elsewhere.

"I know I look different from everyone and since I'm with you, people will laugh at you, too, says Dan," he said, though there was no snake to translate for. It was his way of speaking, she supposed.

She shrugged.

"And? What else? People will always think differently of you because you're a stranger. People tend to judge others before they get to know you. When you met me what was the first thing you thought?"

He muttered something under his breath.

"I'm sorry. Please speak up."

"…I thought you were a funny bird, says Dan," he said, louder. "And you smelled nice for a lady."

"Oh. I thought you were shy when we met," she replied, blushing from his odd compliment. "But when we talked I thought you were nice. I still think so. So, I don't think it matters what other people think when those who know you believe you're different."

Snake ducked his head, his scaly skin turning pink.

"Thank you, says Frederick."

"No problem! And, ah, I'm sorry," she apologized.

"For what? says Wordsworth."

"For ignoring you for two weeks ever since you started working with us." Viola knew it was silly of her to ignore Snake. Yes, she was still guilty for aiding Ciel in taking away his only home and friends. But, before that she was starting to become friends with him. She shouldn't have let such regrets block her in making friends. "I was stupid for ignoring your existence. At the time I was going through some personal issues. I shouldn't have taken them out on you."

"I know, says Dan," Snake replied, understanding. "Chef man said you had been poisoned before I started working for you. He said you nearly died. I'm not mad at you."

"Really?"

He nodded.

"Thanks." A huge weight lifted off her shoulders. It was good he didn't resent her for avoiding him for so long. Now that she had the chance to talk to Snake she felt the huge secret about Joker and the others wouldn't be a problem. She was good at keeping secrets. Feeling lighter in awhile, she began to make idle conversation. "So! What do you think of being around all these nobles? It's the first time you've been in this kind of luxury, right?"

"Viola! Snake!"

A voice interrupted Snake's chance to reply. Ciel and Sebastian hurried over to them.

"We need to be somewhere," Ciel said. He handed his plate of food to Snake, who took that and the fork in shock. "You clean up!"

As quick as a flash, both Ciel and Sebastian hurried through the crowd and out the lounge. Snake and Viola stared after them. For a moment they were both silent. Then, Snake took the fork and took a bite of the potatoes. He blinked, eyes lighting.

"It's good! says Emily," he exclaimed.

"It is, isn't it?" Viola asked. However, she thought Sebastian's cooking was better than this. She ate his food for months. She'd never like anything else ever again.

He bobbed his head. His mouth was too full to speak. It took him a moment to swallow before he replied, "Yes. I wish everyone can try this, says Keaton."

"Then, why don't we?" Snake stared at her, confused. She elaborated. "Let's go down to the storage area. I'm not having as much fun here. Why don't we go down and let your other friends share this with you?"

Snake was all for the idea. Really, Viola suggested it because she was bored out of her mind at this party.

They proceeded to leave the lounge and made their way to the storage room.

Viola had no idea this would be the worst idea she ever had.

xxx

"So you're in a bet that they're forcing you to choose a mate? says Byron," Snake said, astonished. Viola explained to him about the bet she was unexpectantly involved in. "That's not fair to you, says Mary."

Viola and Snake sat in the dark storage room. Neither of them had a lantern, so when they arrived at the storage room Viola had Snake lead the way to the box containing his friends. Somehow, Snake was able to 'smell' out where his friends were despite being human. They used a crowbar to pry open the box and dozens of snakes slithered out to greet Snake. Three days were too long to them. Snake shared the delicious human food with his friends while they talked about everything and anything. Their conversation topics eventually led to Snake asking about the bet (Damn Baldroy for telling him about her personal life!) and she was forced to explain.

"I know. I'm not even sure I like anyone like that. Edward's okay, but I can't see him in a romantic sense. As for Sebastian…" He went without saying. Now that she knew about the reason behind her contract mark she was torn. She wanted to hate Sebastian Michealis for the rest of her life. That demon could suffer for all she cared! But, like everyone who didn't know Sebastian's true nature, she was drawn to him.

Other than his good looks Viola liked his soft side. He babied cats and would melt seeing them. She also realized Baldroy had a point. Sebastian was far more soft to her and Bastian compared to the other servants. She knew the reason why…in theory. She wasn't entirely sure yet.

"Do you like Black? says Shelly."

"I don't know. I've never really had a serious relationship. I know what liking someone means, but not loving them." She paused. "I'm not sure that made sense, huh?"

Snake shook his head.

"Not at all, says Shelley. You can like someone, but loving them is something else. You won't always love them."

"That's…surprisingly deep."

"I saw it with Beast and Joker, says Byron. Joker liked Beast, yet didn't love her like she did. It was sad to watch."

Viola grimaced.

"You're telling me! Beast didn't like me at first because she thought Joker liked me. We were coworkers. I had to tell her bluntly I wasn't interested in him like that."

"You're like Joker, says Shelley. I think Black likes you. You ignore him."

"Ah, hell. You saw that?"

"Yes. The chef told me, too, says Bryon."

Great. The gossip starts. Now Baldroy was telling the new guy she was already taken. It was like Bard wanted her together with Sebastian! He certainly didn't want her getting cozy with Edward or Soma.

"Snake, I don't know how I feel about Sebastian," she sighed. "He's my superior and collegue. He's always way too old for me. I'm not sure we'd work out either. He's too different from me."

"You never know. You might like him." Viola snapped her head to Snake. He wasn't followed up with one of his snakes. Were those his own words? She would never know.

A sudden light interrupted their conversation. Both of them were stunned by the abrupt light blinding them.

"Snake? Viola?"

Viola covered her eyes. Allowing them to adjust, she saw it was Ciel who shone a lantern at them. He was equally as surprised to see them. His lantern moved, blinding her again.

"What are you two doing here?" he asked.

"The food was really good, so I thought I'd share it with everyone, says Dan," Snake translated.

"The cake was even better than the food," said another voice off to the side.

"I see…Wait, Lizzy?"

Viola blinked away the stars in her vision. She was able to see Ciel and Lizzy come into focus. It helped Ciel moved the light away. The former had his handgun in one hand while the latter had a plate. It had a small cake piece on it.

"It's the cake with strawberries you like so much. I even got you the biggest piece," Lizzy whined to Ciel, who told her to return to the party. Viola lost interest as she saw something shift behind the younger girl.

It was a man in a suit. Viola couldn't see much of his face except for the lacy blindfold over his eyes and the increasingly wide mouth. The man approached Lizzy, leaning down as if to bite her.

"Lizzy, look out!" Viola shrieked. She reached forward, grabbed Lizzy's hand, and pulled her away. The man's jaw snapped where the younger girl's head used to be. The two girls stumbled back, accidentally knocking into Ciel. He dropped his lantern, which shone on the man.

"This isn't the one from just now," Ciel gasped. "There were more?"

"Ciel, what's going on?" Viola couldn't keep her eyes away from the man. His walking posture was off. One foot dragged behind him as she slowly limped towards them. The way his mouth hung open reminded her of nights she watched horror films with friends. Her stomach dropped.

"It's a revived corpse. Ryan Stoker, the leader of the Aurora Society, made them." He pointed at a box next to where the man came from. It was a black coffin with an engraving of a phoenix on it.

"I'm sorry. Did you just say revived corpse?"

"Yes, Viola, Snake! I'll do something about him, so you take care of Lizzy!"

Ciel's order went over her head. Viola was too busy trying to accept the fact a zombie was in front of her. Grim Reapers, she could accept. Demons, yeah, a bit weird. But zombies? What next? Werewolves? Vampires? Oh, God, she hoped it wouldn't turn out like some messed up version of Twilight. She wasn't sure she could handle vampires and werewolves being butchered again from how she really imagined them.

She snapped out of her daze when a sudden knocking noise emitted. It was as if multiple hands banged ruthlessly against a door to break it down. It came from the same direction as where the man came from. Dread sunk in when she saw more coffins just like the one nearby. There had to be dozens of them.

And all the restraints broke apart.

"Oh, you've got to be kidding me."

XXX

So, there ya go! An extra long chapter for everyone's favorite arc! I love this arc for two reasons: Zombies and Undertaker. That's all you need to know. A lot will be happening in this arc, so the amount of chapters will be long. An estimate I have on how long this arc is may be around five or six chapters. Why? Because the things that happen in this arc will affect the development of Viola and Bastian's characters. I hope you enjoy future chapters!

Please review!