Slight MA warning. There are some sexual and suggestive scenes.
Day Forty-One: How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
Drusilla had woken early that Christmas morning, carefully creeping out of bed and sneaking into Elizabeth's room as she slept. She left a stuffed stocking in her shoe, filled with an apple, an orange, and some nuts, things she had been familiar with growing up in a meager and poor household. After slipping back into her room, she quietly dressed and headed out, leaving Spike to wake up hours later in the late morning alone.
"Dru…?" he said sleepily as he raised his head. He slumped back down in the sheets and rolled to the side, forcing himself off the mattress to see where his lover had gone.
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As Elizabeth got ready for the day, she was surprised to find the little bundle. She smiled as she untied the knot and carefully slid the contents out onto her bed. These were not things she was used to receiving on Christmas day. Growing up as a child, she was given handmade dolls and extravagantly detailed doll houses, carved wooden horses, and clockwork toys. These small items of fruits and nuts, though hardly comparable to the likes of what she had received in her youth, held more meaning to them than all her past gifts combined. There was love and care with these precious few items that Drusilla had selected, and Elizabeth would treasure them with each slow bite.
She set them aside on her nightstand before kneeling down on the floor by her bedside, hunching forward on her hands as she pulled out her safely guarded presents from beneath her bed. She examined each wrapped parcel with care, ensuring that the ribbons weren't flat and crushed. Feeling satisfied, she decided she would give Drusilla and her sire their gifts that morning. However, she would reserve the most important gift for her love, Angelus, in private, when they had some time together alone. She replaced Angelus' present underneath her bed and took the other two items in her arms, suddenly being reminded of another gift that lay hidden in her room. It was not one of hers, but it had been left by a surreptitious interloper from three days past.
Elizabeth turned her head to glance at the lone vase in the corner of her room.
She could not be blamed for her growing curiosity; her sire had all but intruded into her room without her presence and without valid explanation. She bit her lip as she stood idly for a brief moment before setting the gifts down on her bed and approaching the vase.
She took a small breath as she paused in front of it, her conscience reminding her it wasn't her place to go poking into others' personal affairs, even if it was a man like her sire. But at the same time, because it was her sire, she almost felt it fair for her to do so. How many times did he meddle with private life? Far too many for her to count. With her back straightened and her chin raised in defiance, Elizabeth snatched the dried flowers out and tipped the heavy vase towards her.
The sound of something sliding and hitting porcelain clanged as Elizabeth peered inside. It was dark, but she could remotely make out the form of a small dark box at the bottom. Standing on tiptoe, she slid her arm in, pressing the heavy fixture to her chest as she blindly scratched for the mysterious box. When she felt it secured in her grasp, she heaved the vase back on its base.
The item in question was encased in brown leather, small enough to fit on her palm. Elizabeth eyed it as she held it up in front of her, recalling catching a glimpse of it concealed in her sire's hand when he had been shuffling about her room that night. With such a distinct enclosure, she presumed she knew her sire well enough to know where his thoughts led. She only hoped he had made a sound choice if she wasn't there to give him some suggestions.
Finally holding the top lid with her other hand, she slowly and carefully pried it open. Elizabeth's eyes widened with surprised.
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The manor was alive with festivity, and the smells of freshly baked sweets and savoury dishes wafted through the air.
Elizabeth exited her room with her gifts in arms, in search for her sire and grandsire. A cheery smile was affixed to her lips as she hummed 'Up on a Housetop'.
Spike weaved his fingers into his matted hair and ruffled it about, untangling small knots and making his unruly mop a little neater. He spotted Elizabeth heading down the hall as he shut his bedroom door behind him.
"You're in a cheery mood this morning," he observed, noting the amount of humming she was doing.
Elizabeth stopped mid stride to turn to her sire and merely smiled. She had replaced his secret gift for Drusilla back into the vase and ensured the flowers were just as tidy.
"What's that you've got in your hands?" he asked, curious to see the brightly coloured parcels.
"Presents. One for Drusilla, and one for you, actually. I was just looking for you."
He was genuinely surprised, "You got a gift. For me?" Considering all the rude and unnecessary comments he had made, and the hellish things he had put her through, she had still happened to get him a Christmas present. But he was her sire after all; it was a given, he rationalised.
Elizabeth slipped the smaller item out towards him from above the larger and clunkier shaped one, "Merry Christmas," she said with a smile as she handed it to him.
Something that resembled a wry smile glimmered across Spike's face as he looked down at it, "A bit small, isn't it?" He glanced back up at her and eyed the much larger one she was hefting around for Drusilla.
Elizabeth chuckled and shook her head, "Considering I did not know what to get you?" From the likes of him, it was a response she was already expecting. "Would you like to help me look for Drusilla?"
"I was just about to look for her right now," he said, starting to walk alongside her as he fiddled with his wrapping.
"I hope that she likes her present," Elizabeth glanced down at the package in her arms and adjusted the ribbon.
"She's been disappearing an awful lot lately," Spike commented absently, more to himself than to Elizabeth.
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They headed downstairs and were greeted by some of the maids, wishing them a 'Joyeux Noël'. Spike merely nodded in reply, not wanting to have to wish all the staff merry Christmases whenever they happened to bump into one.
"Merry Christmas, Mademoiselle, Monsieur," one of the kitchen staff that had helped Elizabeth and Drusilla with their baked goods greeted them. "Would you care for a breakfast while you wait for dinner?" she asked.
Spike turned to see that there was a nativity scene set up by the entry hall and took a step closer to see a doll sized baby Jesus in the manger. He toed it with his shoe.
"None for me, thank you. We are, however, looking for Drusilla. Have you seen her?" Elizabeth asked kindly.
"The other Mademoiselle? I believe someone saw her leaving earlier this morning, but she hasn't returned," the maid replied.
"This early in the morning?" Spike turned to look at them as he overheard them speaking.
The maid glanced at the man as he strut forward towards the door. She looked back to Elizabeth, "Let us know if there is anything you need from the kitchen," she gave a small curtsy before leaving.
Spike was careful to mind the sunlight as he peeked out the windows. He squinted when he noticed some grey overcast in the sky, "I hope she's well covered," he commented. Though he did recall Drusilla mentioning that overcast didn't cause the demise of a vampire so much as it stung like beesting. "Huh," he pondered this. He placed his hand on the door handle before turning it and paused.
Elizabeth watched her sire from behind with some concern and took a few steps forward.
Drawing a small breath, Spike pulled the door open and almost jumped a bit to see Drusilla standing just outside. "Dru!" he cried, startled, surprised, and happy; Elizabeth breathed a quiet sigh of relief.
Drusilla lowered her cape and walked in as she smiled at him, "What a greeting to come home to," she giggled, coming forward to kiss him on the lips.
"Where did you go, love? I was just about to look for you," Spike said.
"I went to feed the chicken," she replied absently, still walking forward slowly to glance at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth found her statement odd, but she simply shook it off and smiled at her, "Well, now that I have found the both of you, Merry Christmas, grandmother," she said as she held out her gift to her.
"For me?" Drusilla gasped as she looked at the mysterious item in Elizabeth's hands. She started to giggle like an excited child as she took it from her, "Merry Christmas, granddaughter!" she said happily.
"Why don't we find a more suitable place where you can open it, love?" Spike suggested.
Drusilla nodded eagerly as Spike led her into the parlour; Elizabeth followed slowly from behind.
Once there, Drusilla flopped down on the sofa and set her present on top of her lap before yanking at the ribbon and mercilessly tearing the packaging paper apart. Spike watched with amusement from beside her, leaving his gift wrapped within his hands. When it was revealed that it was a small rocking chair, Drusilla looked at it expressionlessly.
Elizabeth froze in her armchair where she sat across from Drusilla. She had hoped her grandsire would like her gift, but with her blank expression, she was afraid that she didn't. Elizabeth closed her eyes.
Spike waited for Drusilla to react when all she did was stare at the wooden toy. He glanced to Elizabeth- who looked like she was about to have a heart attack- before looking back to his lover, "What… do you think of the gift, pet?"
"I'm much too big to fit in this," she replied absently, her brows stitching upward ever so slightly, "I'll need to borrow Alice's potion."
Spike started to laugh softly, amused that she actually thought it was for herself. Elizabeth fluttered her eyes open and raised her head as she looked across at them, realising the folly of her own insecurities.
Drusilla glanced up at Spike, "Or perhaps hack off me legs and squeeze me into a tighter corset," she suggested innocently.
"No, love, no hacking necessary. You're not minutely rotund."
"Have I become a giant?" she frowned, her imagination now taking her into a different tangent altogether.
Spike shook his head as he tried to reassure her, "It's not meant for you to sit in. It's for your dolls- Miss Edith and Miss Corrine."
She looked back down at the chair as a slow smile spread across her face in realisation, "Oh!"
Spike pulled in to give her a kiss on her cheek.
"I adore it! Thank you, granddaughter. Miss Edith and Miss Corrine will be fighting over who will get to sit in it first," she giggled.
With a good natured giggle replacing her frown, Elizabeth nodded, "I am sure they can take turns. I am glad you like it, grandmother. Now," she turned to her sire with a smile, "it's your turn." Despite their differences, she hoped that he would appreciate it, considering she took time looking for a good enough quill set for him.
Drusilla set the chair on the floor and gave it a soft nudge and watched it rock as she giggled.
"I suppose it is," Spike sighed a little as he looked to Elizabeth. He felt a little odd having to open a gift in front of her as she watched; he hadn't had this much attention doing that since he was a boy. Tearing the parchment paper away, he was left to see the top of an ornate box beneath. He pulled it out and cast the paper aside onto the floor as he set it down onto his lap, then opened the lid. His eyes widened slightly, seeing that it was a calligraphy set- feather quill, ink, several different nibs, and even some wax for sealing. He didn't know what to say. "This… is extremely thoughtful…," Spike replied a little more quietly, his gaze cast downward at his gift. He shut the lid after a brief pause and looked up at her, "A little old fashioned, though. I've resorted to using fountain pens," he smirked.
Elizabeth returned the little smirk with a small shake of her head, as if she had expected that sort of response, "Perhaps, but these tend to leak less. One false move with a pen and many things can be ruined," she spoke as if she knew from experience.
"Not likely you'll be seeing me with a quill in my breast pocket. It's not very convenient, is it?" he continued.
Elizabeth fought the urge to roll her eyes. Instead, she shook her head and gave a small shrug of her shoulders.
Spike got up, "Let me put that away for you, love," he said, taking ahold of the toy furniture.
Drusilla gave a simple nod as she peered up at him and watched as he left the room.
Allowing her gaze to settle away from them, Elizabeth's eyes trailed towards the window as she sat in wait, quietly anticipating the moment she would be alone with Angelus.
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Spike was quick to put away their gifts before he slipped back into Elizabeth's room, fetching the item he had hidden away in her vase. Dusting off the box, he opened the lid and checked inside it once more before burying it deep within his inner coat pocket.
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"Did Father Christmas leave a gift behind for you this morning?" Drusilla giggled.
Elizabeth turned to her with a smile, "He did." She looked at her with a loving fondness, appreciative that it was her that had left those items for her. Though throughout this, at the back of her mind, Elizabeth wondered where Angelus was. It was barely past noon, but she was already starting to get anxious about giving him his present. She quietly drummed her fingers on her knee to preoccupy her listlessness.
"Were you a good girl this year? Or a bad girl?" Drusilla continued, circling her finger in the air at her.
"She's been a good girl," Angelus said as he entered the parlour.
Elizabeth turned and looked up at him in happy surprise.
Walking behind Elizabeth's chair, Angelus ducked low in passing and whispered by her ear in a lowered voice, "Mostly."
A shiver ran down Elizabeth's spine and she resisted the urge to crane her neck as she felt the air from his breath against her skin. She cast her eyes down and ran her teeth over her lip slightly, but refrained from her nervous habit of biting down.
Drusilla covered her mouth with both hands as she giggled at them.
Glancing up, Elizabeth shared a smile at Angelus as he crossed the room.
"What's this? Have you already opened presents?" Angelus observed the discarded paper on the floor as he walked over to the sofa and sat next to Drusilla.
"We did," Drusilla beamed happily. "Granddaughter got me a lovely rocking chair for Miss Edith and Miss Corrine. They shall be up all day making noises in that."
"That's nice to hear," Angelus glanced over at Elizabeth and smiled.
Spike walked into the room to see his family gathered together, "Seems we're all here," he commented absently. He sat down on Drusilla's other side.
"Oh!" she suddenly sprang up, leaving Spike to look up her in confusion, "I've just remembered! No one move a muscle," she wagged a stern finger at each of them before trotting off.
Reluctantly obeying his lover's words, Spike remained on the sofa next to Angelus. "SO," he said, after a short and awkward pause, "kill anyone exciting lately?" he looked over at his sire. Considering all the times he and Elizabeth had been running around looking them, he had no idea what sorts of things Angelus and Drusilla had been up to. Nor did he understand all this secrecy and not killing their human host. It was unlike his sire to hold off for so long; it was almost unbecoming of him.
"A little here an' there," Angelus shrugged indifferently as he crossed his legs and reclined back. "Elizabeth here has been getting better with her nightly prowls," he smiled and nodded at her from across the way.
Spike glanced towards her, "So I've heard." It was at that moment he had realised that perhaps Angelus had become her sire instead of him. He'd never really treated her with the type of mentorship Angelus had, and he supposed that they now stood at a somewhat level ground. It was an odd feeling to suddenly realise this.
"I've returned!" Drusilla announced loudly as she sauntered in, her arms behind her back.
Spike smiled up at her, "Have you got something there, love?"
"I do," she sang happily, "one for each of you." Drusilla glided forward and handed each one a card, "I drew 'em meself," she said proudly.
"It's… it's not really a Christmas themed card, though, is it, love?" Spike observed the semi-realistic and bloody heart drawn on his.
"I think it's fitting," Angelus commented.
Spike glanced over at his, seeing a sword with blood dripping down its blade. It was a little crude and no way comparable to Angelus' skills, but there was something about her illustrations that were a little more practised.
"'Course they are!" Drusilla cried. "It's red, just like Father Christmas' suit," she pointed at Spike's. "And there are holly berries there," she indicated the three droplets of blood that had dripped off from the blade in Angelus' image.
"What of you, Elizabeth?" Spike asked, looking over to her. "Just as festive?" he said with sarcasm.
"Granddaughter has the most special one of them all," Drusilla said, moving over to her and hugging her from the side. On Elizabeth's card, Drusilla had drawn a dead bird lying on its back with broken wings. "The birdy's makin' snow angels," Drusilla smiled as she squeezed her closer, glancing happily down at the card in her hand.
Elizabeth kept her head bowed as she looked at the image. With a small and intrigued smile, she ran a finger over the drawing and nodded quietly. It put her at a little unease since it was also Drusilla's nickname for her.
"It is very well done," she said as she continued to look it over. She turned to her grandsire with a smile, "I love it."
"Do you?" Drusilla looked at her lovingly. "I knew you would!" she giggled happily, giving her a kiss on the forehead before embracing her once more. Elizabeth giggled back and returned the hug with just as much affection.
"Is that… real blood?" Spike asked as he looked down at his card.
"It is," Drusilla replied, turning to him. She hopped off from the armrest and walked over to Spike, nestling down close to his side as she rested her head against his shoulder, "Adds a little realism, don't you think?"
Spike wrapped his arm around her shoulders, "It does. I love it; it's beautiful." He peered over her head and smiled, "Is it supposed to be my heart?" he asked with amusement.
Drusilla giggled and shook her head, "Couldn't be, silly. It's not warm."
The two cuddled close and snuggled against each other as they whispered lovingly into each other's ears and giggled.
Angelus stood from the sofa and slowly walked away. Passing behind Elizabeth's armchair, he softly dragged his fingers through her hair that lay hanging over the backrest. Elizabeth shivered again. The gentle tug on her scalp created a pleasant sensation that made its way down the length of her body, reawakening that sudden feeling that drew her attention beneath her skirts. She drew a shaky breath and only craved more.
There came a sudden knock at the door.
Elizabeth almost jumped as she sat staunch in her seat.
"Excuse me, Monsieurs and Mademoiselles, Christmas dinner is about to be served," the maid announced.
"Oh!" Drusilla hopped up again, abruptly untangling herself from Spike, "I've almost forgot!" She started to take off as she mumbled to herself, "The Christmas crackers!"
Spike watched her go with a soft sigh, finding her endearing and almost too volatile at times. There were moments when he didn't know what to do with her.
Angelus offered his arm to Elizabeth as she continued to collect her bearings, "In the meantime, let's get seated. William and Drusilla will join us later," he smiled.
Elizabeth shyly beamed at him and nodded as she took his arm.
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Once they were out of earshot, Elizabeth whispered, "Can you meet me in the library after dinner?" her glowing blush stubbornly persistent as she asked with a timidity she only reserved for him.
"Do you have a surprise for me?" he teased softly as a smile pulled at his lips.
Elizabeth looked up at him and nodded.
"I'd love to," he whispered, leaning in closer towards her and lowering his head as his thumb traced patterns over the top of her hand. He managed to steal a quiet kiss from her in the hallway without any prying eyes, enough to cause her to raise her brows in surprise, but not long enough to elicit a pleasurable moan. At the sound of Drusilla coming down the stairs, he pulled back and smiled at her secretively and resumed their walk towards the dining room. Elizabeth now blushed for an entirely different reason.
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Spike and Drusilla soon caught up from behind, holding the Christmas crackers she had been so excited to fetch. As they entered the dining room, they found Maurizio already seated at the head of the table.
He stood up immediately, "Merry Christmas to you all," he greeted happily, though his smile seemed a little forced when he looked over to Spike and Drusilla.
"Merry Christmas, Maurizio," Angelus replied in kind.
Spike pulled out Drusilla's chair for her, as did Angelus for Elizabeth. Once the women were comfortably seated, the men followed suit. They were arranged with the two women sitting adjacently from the head of the table where Maurizio presided. Spike naturally sat next to Drusilla, but this time, he faced Angelus.
They waited as their food was brought out to them, but Spike was more eager when their wine glasses were being filled.
"The Christmas crackers!" Drusilla cried as soon as the servants had filed out. She began to hand one to each of them.
"Cosaques?" Maurizio smiled with amusement as he looked at the tubular parcel in his hand.
"It's become a bit of a traditional thing before Christmas where we're from. It'd mean a lot to Drusilla if we all participated," Angelus explained.
"Of course," Maurizio smiled at her. "What do we do?" he turned back to Angelus.
"It usually requires two people. Each person holds firm at one end and tugs. Whoever gets the longer end wins the treats inside," Angelus continued.
Spike sipped at his wine and gave a little chuckle as he set it down, "I bet the dandy there is just waitin' for you to tug on his cracker," he smirked across at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth shot him a quick glare, not realising the sexual implication of his words.
"Wish Darla were here now, don't you, Angelus? No one to share a firm grip and a hard pull but yourself, hmm?" Spike continued, smiling across at his sire.
"Nonsense, William, we've got a full table. We can make a circle and share them between us," Drusilla reasoned, sounding partially lucid.
Elizabeth turned to her with a smile, "I think that's a splendid idea."
Spike pulled a face, a little reluctant at the idea that Drusilla would have to share one with Maurizio.
"Please, my love?" Drusilla asked sweetly, her brows turning upwards into a slight frown.
"Oh, all right," he sighed.
She giggled and turned back to the task at hand as she showed Maurizio to cross his arms over like she did before gripping on both ends of the crackers and yanking. Small snaps cascaded in quick successions as little wrapped sweets of bonbons and nougats tumbled out. Drusilla giggled happily like a child, more excited at the popping sounds than the actual treats.
"How very festive," Maurizio laughed. "I shall have to get these for more occasions."
"It is quite fun, isn't it?" Elizabeth asked with a delighted laugh, setting aside her winnings.
"It does set a precedent tone to the occasion," Maurizio said with a bemused smile as he looked to her.
"Are you glad you decided to stay for the holiday?" Angelus asked.
"Yes, it has been a much warmer and livelier year," Maurizio agreed, setting down his wineglass after taking a sip. "Had you not kept me company, I'd have set out on another business venture as I've been doing the past several years. I admit, that even though work keeps me preoccupied, it does get lonely at times," he revealed, giving a mocking sigh as he teased himself; he smiled at his two friends, allowing his other guests to do as they pleased as they entertained themselves in their own little world.
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Spike watched as Drusilla jabbed her knife at the shell of her escargot, only to have it swirl and slip around on her plate.
"Allow me, love," Spike said, taking up the small pronged fork and skewering out the meaty piece of flesh inside. He held it up to her mouth as she placed it in her mouth and slowly pulled it clean.
"Mm," she moaned as she stared at him and began to chew, "delicious," she smiled.
"Have you ever had escargot before?" he asked.
"No," Drusilla shook her head, "they were too expensive. Besides, mummy always scoffed about the French eatin' insects. Coulda had 'em for free by just scrapin' 'em off the garden wall."
Spike watched her with amusement as the servants removed their plates and set down their entrees. "What did you usually have for Christmas dinner?" he asked curiously, wondering more about her previous life as he cut into the piece of meat on his plate.
"Stewed rabbit," Drusilla replied, scraping the tines of the fork through the gravy and red sauce. "Couldn't hop away fast enough into its rabbit hole. Hopped straight into our tummies," she rambled.
"Try some of the fowl, pet," he said as he chewed, "you'll like it."
"It sits in a puddle of blood."
"No, it's a cranberry sauce, I think. It's sweet and a little tart, like you," he smiled.
Drusilla giggled and cut a small piece off to try; it was a rare moment to actually see her eating normally. "Roasted chicken?" she pondered.
"I believe it's goose. I'd have it every year with Mother," he chuckled a bit as he reminisced. "It was a little ridiculous to think we'd share an entire bird just between the two of us, but Mother would feed the keep once we were done."
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As Elizabeth half listened to the conversations around her, she thought back to the Christmases she had when she was a girl. The decorations that Maurizio had in his manor were lovely and charming, but she found them incomparable to her home. There, she felt an undeniable air of festivity and a strong presence of the Christmas spirit. She could almost smell the pine needles from the tree that stood in their parlour, and the long greenery of garland that lay tacked from the ceilings from each hallway. Their parties were also no exception. Soft glowing candlelight seemed to attract people as they gathered there for the joyous occasion and food and drink. Even her father, as serious and stern as he was, would show a softer, more unhinged side of him. She could almost hear his voice calling out to his mother to dance with him. She smiled at that as she chewed her food.
Pulling herself out of her thoughts, she tried to be present for conversation. "It is very nice to be among friends for Christmas. I was almost afraid I wasn't going to have one this year, being away from home and all," she said with a smile at Angelus.
Angelus returned her smile and took a sip of wine.
Elizabeth turned back to look at her host.
"I agree, it is nice to be amongst friends," Maurizio nodded. "Is this your first Christmas away from home? Your family must be thinking about you on this day, away with strange company," he laughed.
With a bittersweet smile, she nodded, "I'm sure they are," she said softly. She took a swallow of wine.
"She is in good hands," Angelus smiled at his friend as he placed his hand over Elizabeth's knee underneath the table. Elizabeth looked to him with warmth and appreciation, taking comfort in the gesture of his touch.
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Not understanding the conversations that were taking place across the table, or enough to care, Spike continued to devote his attention to his lover.
"Just last Christmas, we had one almost twice the size as the previous year," he smiled, "we almost made a mess of it on the floor," he laughed.
"You would have been slidin' it its juices," Drusilla smiled at him.
"'Course, that was when she was still well," he sighed, taking a swallow of his wine. He grimaced as he watched the liquid wash back down along the sides of the glass and felt the undeniable clench in his chest.
"Oh, God," he whispered quietly. As much as he tried to push it away, the current of his emotions were breaking down his mental dam. He missed her. It was his first Christmas without her, and he missed her like a man who needed air. He gulped down the rest of his wine and indicated to one of the waiting servants that he needed a refill. As she began to pour, Spike pulled the bottle from her grasp, "Let me, love."
The maid made a sound of alarm and backed away, unsure of what to do as she watched the disgruntled man fill the glass till it was almost to the brim.
Elizabeth peered across the table. Knitting her brows together, she observed the curious sight of her sire. He not only appeared vexed, but a little panicked, she noted.
Still clinging to the bottle, Spike lifted the glass and finished it off in one motion before wiping off his mouth with his sleeve. He burped loudly and turned to Drusilla as he laughed.
Maurizio was not impressed with his crude behaviour.
The maid hesitantly moved forward to retrieve the bottle from him, but he shrugged her off, "No need, pet. I've found a new glass." He motioned with his hand to scamper off as he took to nursing directly from it.
Elizabeth smiled at her apologetically and only shook her head in silence as a means to advise her to leave.
"Already drowning your sorrows, William?" Angelus commented disapprovingly across from him.
"Actually, no. I'm in high spirits," he grinned. "Neigh," he corrected, lifting a finger, "haven't quite been visited from my three Christmas spooks, yet. I suppose I should be more of a Scrooge and furrow my brow at every opportune moment. Kinda like you," he cackled.
Looking at her sire, Elizabeth spoke, "Now, I don't think that is necessary. You are enough of a grouch as it is," she teased.
"Always quick to defend your precious sire," Spike said with vitriol. "You think he'd do the same for you?" he scoffed. He reclined his head and swigged deeply.
Elizabeth's back straightened and her shoulders squared, "That's enough," she said with rising anger, trying at her best efforts to calm herself down.
"Please, William, can we have one dinner without you spoiling it?" Angelus sighed. "My apologies, Maurizio," Angelus said, turning to their host.
"What is it with you, anyway?" Spike continued as he pointed between them. "Hasn't this bloody charade gone on long enough? I'm really hankering for a bit of blood on my hands. These knuckles have barely kissed another man's jaws since that last time-"
"When you almost got killed and had Drusilla cradle you back in her arms?" Angelus interjected.
Spike narrowed his eyes at him before carrying on, "Edgar's was too short and swift. I feel like I need to earn a little work this round," he chuckled, taking another swig.
Elizabeth's hardened expression instantly transformed to one of surprise. With his cryptic confession, it became apparent to her what he had done at the end of his reunion with his friend.
"Oh, I'm sorry, did you think I was going to let him go scot-free?" Spike said as he raised his brows at Elizabeth. "You should know me by now; that's not likely to happen," he giggled.
It was with little relief that she learned that they were dead. At least her family would never know about her current existence or come looking for her. Turning to Maurizio, she spoke, "I am deeply sorry about this. This was turning out to be such a lovely evening."
Spike swept a side glance at her as he continued to drink.
"No, it's all right," Maurizio waved his hand at her in hopes to calm her down, "as host, I should be the one who should be ensuring everyone is content. Your friend appears to be in a foul mood. Please, shall we move on to another topic? If the dinner isn't of to your taste, we can move to the parlour onto different activities," he suggested, trying to be hospitable to all his guests as the hostility and animosity around them grew thicker.
"God, he really is a dandy," Spike snorted, "always trying to play nice and fair. No wonder he's having a hard time pinning down a woman." He could almost attest to that, seeing how he'd never much raised his voice as a man, therefore committing himself to a life of loneliness. He found it humourous that after being reborn, he pushed himself to be heard without care, and now had heads turning, in addition to Drusilla's.
Elizabeth turned to her sire with a glare, "Leave him be."
"End this conversation now, William, or excuse yourself from the table," Angelus warned.
Spike directed his glare from his progeny to his sire and scoffed as he screwed his face up, "Who are you? My father? No, thanks," he rolled his eyes as he continued to drink.
"You're drunk. Leave now before you embarrass yourself further."
Spike blinked several times in mock surprise, "'Embarrassed'? I ain't embarrassed, mate," he laughed, "I'm elated! It's bloody Christmas! Got to tug on my Christmas cracker and spilt its contents all over the table. Oh, yeah, grand ol' fun," he smirked.
Angelus sighed and turned to Maurizio as he stood, "I think it's best if we relocated to the parlour. William will join us later when he's ready to." Angelus shot another disapproving glance at his grandprogeny as he led Elizabeth out with him, "Come, Elizabeth."
"A capital idea," she said with a small look of relief.
"Aw, c'mon, now! Can't bother with a little teasing and banter?" Spike hollered out after them. "Fine! It's better this way! You're all boring anyhow! The whole lot of you!"
┼†‡
Sitting in the parlour, Elizabeth sighed in relief and looked out the window with a little anticipation. She hoped that after they spent some time with their host, she could give Angelus his surprise present.
"Is he… quite all right?" Maurizio asked.
"You've seen how he's behaved before, Maurizio, that's just his regular temperament, unfortunately," Angelus sighed. "My apologies, again. Your dinner was wonderful. Don't think that his ill humour had anything to do with your participation in any of it."
"I am beginning to understand a bit, I believe," Maurizio replied with a small nod. "Though, I do wonder still what he was doing outside of the party the other night. He wasn't given an invitation, if I recall."
"I think he believed that he had, but learnt that it was all a misunderstanding," Angelus was quick to justify.
Elizabeth shook her head with a sigh, "He has his moments. There have been times when he and I were good friends," she said with a little bit of fondness. After all, she had considered him her only friend until they had reached Nice.
"From what I gather, you all have a very complex relationship with him," Maurizio said, turning to look at Elizabeth. "Still, he must be very important to you if you so often forgive him for his misgivings. He is fortunate to have you as such loyal friends," he reasoned.
"Hmm," Angelus hummed, settling down on the sofa, "I've often wondered if it would be better to just sever ties with him," he crossed his legs and swiped something off the sleeve of his coat. "I once almost severed his head."
Maurizio stared at him with wide eyes, unable to utter a sound from the shock.
"I jest," Angelus lifted his gaze and smiled at him.
"Oh, of course!" Maurizio began to laugh with him, feeling relieved that he hadn't been serious.
"He's useful at times, when he needs to be," Angelus added with nonchalance.
┼†‡
With Spike and Drusilla left alone in the dining room, Spike continued to drink till he had emptied the bottle. "I'd like a refill, please!" Spike called out loudly to one of the servants as he tapped at the side of the glass.
A maid moved aside to fetch another bottle.
"You having fun, love?" Spike asked, turning to glance at Drusilla.
Drusilla splattered some of the cranberry sauce across the linen tablecloth like it was blood spatter, "All out in a row like waddling little ducklings after their mother," she mumbled, not looking at him.
"What is it, Dru? Why do you look so upset?"
She turned to him with a pout and a look of disappointment, "You've scared Daddy and granddaughter away."
The maid set the bottle down by Spike and retreated.
"No, Angelus chose to leave," he said in his defense.
"Because you wouldn't stop dribbling from your mouth," she pouted.
"Please, not you, too, Dru," Spike sighed, returning her expression.
"I wanted us all to share a happy family meal, altogether," she frowned.
"Not really much of a family," Spike scoffed, taking a swig of his new bottle. "Don't need 'em here, anyway."
Drusilla stood from her seat and began to walk away.
"Wait- Drusilla!" Spike hastened to scramble up after her, "I didn't mean you!"
She turned around to face him, her frown deepening.
"I'm sorry, love; forgive me. I understand how important they mean to you, I just…," he shook his head and glanced down. "How did you manage to do it, Dru?" he asked a little more quietly. "All I'm reminded of is how unbearable it is," he said as he lifted his gaze to her and clenched at his chest.
He sank to his knees and hugged her as he pressed his head against her stomach, "Did you ever forgive him for what he did?" he asked softly.
Drusilla stroked the back of his head like a mother comforting her child, "Never," the quirk of a bittersweet smile at the corner of her lips.
With her reply, he knew the answer to his own question: he'd never forgive himself for what he had done to his own mother. He'd bury those memories as deep as he possibly could, like the underground Parisien dungeons, and never allow them to see the light of day- or moonlight. He'd learn to forget, or if he couldn't, he'd force himself to.
┼†‡
"Well, pardon me for venturing into such unstately topics,"Maurizio began. "Let us move on to something more lively as a means of entertainment. Do you perhaps sing or play the piano, Elizabeth? I have one in the drawing room," he suggested.
Elizabeth raised her brows and smiled humbly, "I do sing, but piano… I took lessons as a girl, but was not well at it," she said with a little laugh. "My tutor was ever so frustrated. I managed to play some slow songs with some proficiency, but she said they reminded her of funerals," she said with another laugh.
"So you sing," Maurizio brightened at the news. "If you do not mind, might I accompany you at the piano? Please," he offered his arm to her.
"With pleasure," Elizabeth smiled and took his arm.
Angelus smirked as he watched them trail out, then stood and followed behind them.
┼†‡
Drusilla lowered herself and cradled Spike's head against her shoulder as she rocked him, "Shh… my sweet William. Let the wounds fester and flesh rot from the bones. Maggots will make a pretty meal out of you," she kissed him on the forehead.
Even with Drusilla's psychobabble, Spike took some comfort from it. "You know what would really make me feel better?" he lifted his eyes as he peered up at her.
"Hmm?" she mewled innocently as she looked back at him.
He straightened himself up as he loomed over her, pressing his forehead against hers as his hands glided over her hips and up towards her chest, "A little rough and tumble. It'd be a nice way to give this stale blood in me a quick jolt," he yanked her towards his body at the last word. Drusilla began to giggle and playfully growled as she snapped at his ear.
Spike peered over her shoulder to see that the maids were still idling in the room, but had turned their heads away in embarrassment. "Want a show?" he growled. "Allow yourselves the rest of the night off!" he waved his hand at them. They lowered their burning faces and quickly walked out.
"Now, where were we?" Spike grinned at Drusilla and pulled her down to the floor.
┼†‡
Stealing a glance at Angelus, Elizabeth smiled as she stood by the piano. "What would you like to have me sing?" she looked to her host, then back to her mentor, unable to hide her nervousness.
Angelus quietly settled down on the sofa across from them and watched, giving Elizabeth an encouraging smile.
Maurizio positioned himself at the grand piano, "How about something that fits the occasion? Something spirited and Christmas themed would be suitable."
Elizabeth gave it a brief thought, "'O Holy Night'? That was the first song that came to mind." It was something her mother sang at Christmas, a song she had taught her to sing. "I would think that 'Up on the Housetop' would be a bit childish," she thought out loud, feeling insecure of her childhood favourites. She wanted to be seen as a woman, not a juvenile girl.
Maurizio smiled broadly at her, "Whatever you wish. That is a lovely suggestion, though I'm not so familiar with the second carol," he replied. "Shall we start with 'O Holy Night' first? You may need to help me with the other one," he smiled. Placing his fingers on the appropriate keys, he slowly began to play out the chords.
┼†‡
"Mm… I hear music," Drusilla moaned underneath Spike.
Even though he would have likely dismissed it as something that was just in her head, Spike heard it, too. "Are you putting me under some sort of spell, pet?" he asked as he peered down at her. That was until he heard the singing. "Bloody Christmas carols," he growled as he thrusted with more vigour.
Drusilla moaned louder.
┼†‡
As she sang, Elizabeth's voice was soft yet clear, carrying each note gracefully in tune with the piano accompaniment. Singing was one of the few things she excelled at, but it was mostly due to the fact that she enjoyed it. When the song ended, she smiled brightly, having conquered her stage fright.
Maurizio pulled his hands away from the keys and applauded with enthusiasm, "Bravo! That was exquisite!" he beamed.
Angelus also shared his applause, but with less gusto, "You sing beautifully, Elizabeth," he smiled.
Elizabeth smiled at their praise, but seeing that Angelus did not share the other man's enthusiasm caused her smile to shrink.
"Like an angel!" Maurizio cried. "Shall we try the next song? Hum the melody for me a little. I'll follow after with the chords," he smiled as he turned back to the piano.
Elizabeth nodded and hummed, only to sing when he caught on and began to play. It was a cheery song that Elizabeth loved as a child, and it showed in her youthful face.
┼†‡
Drusilla and Spike's love making had lasted throughout the duration of the last song. When the music had stopped, Spike was relieved to just hear the sound of their own voices. Then Elizabeth started to sing again. He groaned and he hung his head as Drusilla giggled at him.
Her eyes brightened at the sound of the piano accompanying Elizabeth's voice, "I want to join them."
Spike shook his head, "No, no, not till we're finished."
She clamped her hands onto his shoulders as she rolled them around; she now sat on top.
"Almost?" she rode him as she bit down on her bottom lip.
Spike clutched at her hips, "No," he gasped.
She quickened her pace and elicited a moan from him. "Are we there, yet?" she continued to prod him.
"No… oh, no…," he moaned, feeling his climax coming.
"And now…?" Drusilla peered down at him.
Spike bucked forward and grasped at her hips, "Yes, God, yes!" he moaned.
Drusilla gave a small giggle as she leaned over and kissed him on the nose before crawling off.
Spike watched her from the floor as she got up, then pushed himself up and tucked himself away.
┼†‡
Following her out into the drawing room, he straightened his attire and hair as he caught the end of Elizabeth's singing.
Drusilla clapped and gave a little hop, "Sing it again, sing it again!" she chirped.
Elizabeth turned to her with a smile, "Perhaps one more song," she said as she glanced to Angelus with a hopeful smile.
Spike sighed and glanced to the side.
"Finally decided to join us, William?" Angelus commented.
"We were too busy doin' some singin' of our own," he sneered. "When's the last time you made a bird sing?" he scoffed.
Elizabeth flushed a little at the vulgarity of her sire's innuendo, though the directed comment at Angelus was lost to her.
"I'd like to make a bird sing," Drusilla turned to Spike and pouted.
Elizabeth cleared her throat to draw attention away from the growing chaos, "What should I sing?" she asked the room.
Drusilla clapped her hands merrily as Elizabeth acquiesced to her request.
Maurizio glanced to the two recent additions to the room, "Will there be a problem?" he asked a little quietly, turning to Angelus.
"Things seem to be under control, now," Angelus assured him with a smile before glancing at Elizabeth with a small nod.
"Would you play 'O Come All Ye Faithful', granddaughter? It would be glorious if you did," Drusilla asked, coming forward to clasp her forearm.
Spike let out a sigh as he wandered over to a solitary armchair and flopped down. He'd allow his love the moment to be entertained for a little while, but then he had other plans with her.
Elizabeth smiled with a nod, "Of course," she said happily.
As the piano began to play and Elizabeth began to sing, Drusilla drifted from her arm and closed her eyes as she swayed to the music. She hummed along as she twirled about the room, lifting her arms every now and then with the swelling of the melody. Folding her arms over her chest, she held herself as she swayed back and forth as the song came to a close; her face was slightly tilted skyward. She opened her eyes as she faced the window and remained motionless.
Maurizio turned from the piano and faced Elizabeth, "That was splendid, Elizabeth. Had I known you had the voice of an angel, I'd have asked you to sing for us every night," he laughed.
"Thank you, Maurizio; you're being too kind," she replied humbly. Leaving her position by the piano, Elizabeth moved forward towards Drusilla. It was only when she hugged her that Drusilla seemed to snap out of her trancelike state.
Drusilla touched Elizabeth's arm and smiled as she snuggled her face against her shoulder and pet at her hair, "Merry Christmas, lovey," she said gently, the timbre of her voice unlike the crazed woman that they knew, but more like someone who probably resembled the woman of her former life.
Elizabeth drew back and addressed the room, "I do hope that no one minds, but I think I'll retire for the evening. Merry Christmas, everyone."
"Yes, have a wonderful evening," Maurizio nodded, his smile partially masking his disappointment.
Giving her grandsire another warm smile, Elizabeth finally left the drawing room.
┼†‡
Her calm gait only quickened the more distance she gained. When she reached her room, she pulled Angelus' gift from beneath her bed and headed to the library loft with haste.
Elizabeth sat surrounded with enough candles to light a ballroom and Angelus' precious gift laying across her lap. Fidgeting from her perch, she anxiously waited and chewed on her bottom lip in anticipation.
┼†‡
Angelus and Spike stood from their seats, but for different reasons.
"Do you have some time to spare this evening?" Maurizio asked his friend as he approached him; he closed the piano lid and stood from the bench.
Angelus paused for a split second before answering, "Yes, of course. Is there something you wish to discuss?"
"I generally attend Midnight Mass on the night of Christmas Eve, but seeing as we had attended Pierre's party, I didn't get the chance to. I was wondering if you would all like to join me," he said. "I would have liked to have asked Elizabeth, but it seems she has some more urgent business to attend to," he replied, now disclosing his disappointment.
"Hmm, not at all. I am going to go see to her for a moment any how. I'll let her know," Angelus gave him a reassuring nod and a pat on his arm.
"Thank you, my friend," Maurizio smiled with a slight look of unease.
┼†‡
Angelus left to meet Elizabeth in the library as she had so secretly requested of him. Once there, he followed the glow of the lights from the loft. "Elizabeth?" he called out as he poked his head up from the staircase. "What's with all the mystery and secrecy?" he laughed as he came closer.
Her fingers curled nervously over the edge of the box as she smiled at him, "I wanted to spend at least a little time alone with you tonight,"she giggled. "I… also wanted to give you this," she placed a hand over the surface of the box. "I really hope that you like it," she said softly, her smile small and hopeful.
He glanced down at the item in question, then peered back up at her, "What could this be?" he smiled. Settling down next to her, he slid his present onto his lap. He looked to her once more before glancing down at it and began unwrapping it.
As he lifted the lid, he was met with the glint of metal. He pulled the sword out and cradled it gingerly between both hands, "This has been such an unexpected gift," he said, glancing up at her. "May I?" He stood, letting the box and paper fall to the floor as he unsheathed the blade in one fell swoop; the sound of metal scraped and twanged as it was fully released. He angled it in the candlelight as he admired the quality craftsmanship, "This is wonderful," he said as a small and pertinent tug of his lips pulled upwards. "I would like to see this put to good use one day," he said absently, a little quieter. He replaced the blade back into its scabbard and sat facing Elizabeth, "Thank you, Lizzy. This is wonderful."
"I'm glad you like it," her smile brightened, relieved and happy at the selection she had made. "You look handsome holding it," she added softly, speaking her thoughts out loud before she could stop herself. She immediately started to flush, "I-I mean-"
"I think I look more handsome with you on my arm," Angelus replied, watching her with mild amusement. Holding the sword in one hand, and her hand in the other, Angelus leaned in and kissed her.
Elizabeth felt herself curling forward towards him, tethered by the soft plush of his lips and yet simultaneously lured by the firm and commanding pull of his kiss. She had been anticipating to give Angelus his present, but she had also been sinfully anticipating this. Again, she felt that strange sensation as it dared to take control of her own actions. Elizabeth mewled softly from her throat and pressed her legs together tightly, hoping to keep that growing ember there at bay.
As Angelus drew back, Elizabeth almost followed suit, having to anchor her hand on his shoulder from face planting his chest. "I know our time together has only been so brief tonight, but Maurizio has asked us all if we would like to join him at Mass. I told him I would let you know," he smiled.
Elizabeth managed to straighten herself up with the little dignity she still had, "Whatever you decide," she peered up at him with glazed eyes and rosy cheeks, "I'm fairly flexible."
"Allow me to put this away first, then we can rejoin them," he smiled. He stood with her hand still in his and led her forward.
┼†‡
Enroute to the drawing room, simple piano melodies could be heard as they neared.
Angelus and Elizabeth walked in to see that Drusilla had taken a seat next to Maurizio on the bench as he showed her how to play some notes. "Oh, no, I've got it wrong again!" she cried as she hit the wrong key.
Spike stood by and watched, not liking that she was giving the other man so much attention, "No worries, love. You'll get better with practise," he said encouragingly. Though the sound of the same tune being played over and over for the past ten minutes was starting to grate on him.
She pouted as she watched Maurizio play it once more, then gave it another attempt. Stopping partway through, she turned around to face the other pair, "They don't move when they're told to move! Find us some new ones?" she pouted, extending her arms out towards them like she was a prisoner in cuffs.
Maurizio immediately brightened at the sight of them and replaced the cover on the piano before swivelling around on the bench, "Are we all ready, then?" he asked cheerfully, pulling himself up on his feet.
Spike observed him, "Ready for what?" He turned to Angelus for an answer.
"We're going to attend Mass," Angelus replied.
"Oh, church!" Drusilla hopped up from her seat and clapped her hands with excitement.
"Why the bloody hell would a bunch of vampires want to venture into a church?" Spike scoffed.
"I like the church," Drusilla said, turning to him. "Come, William, it'll be fun," she gently coaxed, tugging him on his arm.
Spike really didn't want to, seeing as it would affect his plans with Drusilla. He sighed, "All right, if you really wish to," he said to her, an easy victim to her whims.
With a thrilled giggle, she hitched her arm through his before pulling him in tow with her and nestling her head against his shoulder.
┼†‡
Having five persons crammed into a carriage was a snug fit. Spike refused to sit next to Maurizio again which only resorted to Elizabeth being wedged between Angelus and Maurizio. Most likely, her thigh pressing against his was a delight for the Frenchman, a thought that Spike left unsaid.
They arrived at a church in Place Rosetti- the Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate- the same one that Spike and Elizabeth had gone to in search for Angelus and Drusilla when they had first arrived in Nice.
Walking in, Maurizio dipped his fingers in holy water stoup by the entrance before crossing himself, then followed through.
Angelus slowly trailed after him as he glanced up at the facade in the near distance. Like Maurizio, he let his fingers graze the surface of the holy water as it began to steam. With his eyes focused on the holy image depicted on the facade, he kissed his fingers with a smirk as he proceeded forward. Spike watched from behind with amusement and dared to do the same. Dunking his index in knuckle deep, he let out a low hiss as the water instantly began to bubble around his finger. When he could no longer stand the pain, he snatched it out and turned to Drusilla with a cackle. Drusilla grinned at him and stepped forward, only to lightly tap at the surface. With a delighted squeal, she snapped her hand back and clutched it to her chest, then crossed herself whilst mumbling something low beneath her breath, followed by a discernible 'amen'.
Watching Drusilla and her sire walk into the church, Elizabeth slowly approached the stoup when it was her turn. She had quietly been observing their actions from a little ways behind, as a small frown obscured her features. It was understandable why her family members held such an aversion to religion, but Elizabeth could not shake it so readily, being ingrained in it in her upbringing, and still feeling so new to her new life. Glancing down at the water, she saw the surface move from being last touched by Drusilla's hand. She drew a breath as she began to pull the fingers of her glove and carefully peeled it away from her bare hand. Being invited to a house of God, Elizabeth thought it only respectable to cleanse her sins, despite it an uncommon practise for her. She lowered her hand to the water, and paused momentarily just above it, before letting her fingertip trace the surface. Mewling with pain, she drew her hand back instantly, feeling like she had been scalded. Her eyes watered, but she quietly held her ground as she replaced the glove on her hand and crossed herself.
Elizabeth was quick to follow inside before she lost her party in the crowd.
┼†‡
Spike and Drusilla had found seats in a pew near the front, away from the others in the next aisle over. Elizabeth sat next to Angelus, close to the middle row, whereas Maurizio unfortunately found himself left alone, adjacent to Angelus in the pew in front of them.
Despite being Christmas, there was a rather large reception that evening. There was some quiet and idle chatter there, but nothing that rose to something like a roar, considering the setting and occasion. The energy of it was more akin to a low hum of anticipation and quietly suppressed devotion, something that Elizabeth shared. She felt excited in her stillness, but her eyes wandered around the high ceilings and walls in wonder.
She had not attended a service in nearly two months, almost the exact amount of time since she had been forced to leave her home for this life she had not chosen. She missed the church and sermons, just like she missed her home and family. Being reminded of her sentiments left her feeling confused. Bittersweet. It seemed to be the only fitting word with all that she had experienced in life, leading up to where she was presently: leaving a home that she loved that didn't understand where her heart lay, and being forced to live a life against all her previous convictions whilst finding actual love. Perhaps it was more bitter in the past than present, Elizabeth reasoned to herself. Things now grew to be sweeter, she thought, tentatively unclasping her hands from her lap and letting the sides of her gloved fingers lightly graze across the top of Angelus' knee towards his hand that lay resting there.
People around her suddenly rose; Elizabeth snapped her hand back like she had been caught. Flushing with quiet embarrassment, Elizabeth also stood, seeing that the priest had entered. He started to speak and offered a prayer before settling everyone back down. Angelus smiled at Elizabeth when he sat. As they listened to the hymns and Latin scripture, Angelus remained still and quiet, seeming attentive throughout the service whilst Spike fidgeted and let out soft sighs. When the hour had passed, people began to rise and file out.
Maurizio smiled as he turned to glance back at his friends, "That was a lovely service. If you excuse me, I would like to have a few words with the priest." He rose and walked forward, leaving Angelus and Elizabeth in the pew.
"Did you enjoy yourself, dear?" Angelus peered at her.
"Yes, I did. It was wonderful," Elizabeth said softly, turning to him with an appreciative smile. "I've always feel at peace at church; the atmosphere just feels settling," she spoke softly. "Did you?"
"Yes, I did. It has been a while since I've attended service. I never did appreciate it that much as a young man, but I can see how it gives others comfort," he smiled. Angelus drew his attention to the high altar where a large portrait of a young woman kneeling was surmounted. "Are you aware of the legend of The Bay of Angels?" he asked, turning back to her.
┼†‡
"That was lovely," Drusilla sighed, resting her head on Spike's shoulder, "the fairy king had a merry way with his trumpets." Obviously, the woman had viewed the holy service as something entirely different.
Spike fidgeted once more and cleared his throat, feeling that he may as well go about with his plans despite the location. It might have been fitting. "I have a gift for you, love," he said.
"Do you?" she pulled herself up and beamed at him, clasping her hands in front of her chest as she anticipated the present.
He pulled the small box out from his inner coat pocket and smiled at her affectionately. Placing it in her expectant palms, he clasped her hands in his, "...Before you open it, I wish to say a few things," he said, almost hesitantly, and seeming to be serious.
Angelus glanced across at their pew from behind, picking up their conversation with his superior hearing.
"What is it?" Drusilla asked, her brow furrowing slightly.
Spike stared at her for a moment before continuing, "Never before would I have fathomed me envying the heavenly bodies of the stars or the moon, for that matter. But, I do. Because I can see how the starlight shimmers in your smile, how the moonlight bathes you, holds you, and kisses you all at once. And I, before I could cover every inch of your skin, it would take me one slow kiss at a time."
Drusilla slightly canted her head as she stared at him, "What are you saying, William?"
"I-I didn't believe this would hold value with our unlives now, but seeing you that night in that apron as you greeted me at the door made me realise how much of a possibility of it becoming a reality. What I'm trying to say is… eternity is too short a time when I'm with you, and an eternity in your absence." He took a shaky breath, "Would you grant me the honour of spending the rest of my immortal existence with you?"
Drusilla blinked.
"You can open it now," Spike said as he removed his hands and exhaled slowly.
Drusilla glanced down and opened the cover. Nestled inside on velvet lining was a small gold ring. It was set with iridescent opal in the centre and studded by smaller pearls surrounding it; engraved leaf designs embellished the ornate centrepieces.
"I love you, Drusilla," Spike said as she peered down at the ring. "Would you take my hand in marriage, as my wife?"
Drusilla glanced up at him with a soft expression, "Oh, William," she touched the side of his face, "there isn't room for that in this world of ours."
He had expected the possibility of her rejection, but he hadn't anticipated the feeling of his heart being ripped out or being gutted. "But… I love you," he said earnestly, the words slipping out too soon before he realised what was happening.
"And I, you. Are you not happy with just being as we are?" she frowned.
"No, I am," Spike reasoned, pulling closer, "but I only want you, Dru. Just you and me."
She stared at him for a moment in silence, and it was in that small window that Spike knew what she had meant without her saying it: You can't have me. It was like that night in that London parlour all over again, but this time, it was with a woman who willingly shared his affections.
"Don't play that sad tune, William," Drusilla cooed, stroking his cheek.
Spike shook his head and forced a smile, "No worries, love, there shall be no tears spilt tonight. Just blood."
Drusilla smiled, "Help me put it on?"
Spike picked the ring up as Drusilla offered out her right hand. He slipped it on her ring finger.
"It's beautiful!" she breathed, admiring it with her hand splayed at a distance.
"Only the best for you, pet," Spike said, pulling her close to his side as she nestled her head onto his shoulder.
┼†‡
Angelus had divided his attention from their conversation with Elizabeth's. At the sudden surprise of the turn of events, he tried to hide his smirk. Oh, William, still such a poet.
He directed his focus back to Elizabeth as he saw her nod.
She looked to the altar where the portrait hung, "I have heard about it in passing, though my memory of it serves unclear," she admitted. "Do you know of it?"
"Aye," Angelus nodded with a smile. "Would you like me to tell you about it?"
"Please do," Elizabeth replied with genuine curiosity.
"It is about a Christian girl from Caesarea. She was arrested and persecuted because of her religion," he looked back to the portrait. "Her torturers tried anything to renounce her faith- burning her alive at the stake only proved fruitless when the flames were put out by rain; even forcing her to drink boiling tar did little to faze her. This resulted in her beheading and her body set on a raft to be desecrated by birds," he turned to look at Elizabeth. "But, it was guided along the Mediterranean by angels to Nice's bay, and her body was left untouched. That is why it is called Baie des Anges- The Bay of Angels," he smiled. "The young martyr became to be known as Sainte Réparate. Legend states that as she fell to her death, her soul emerged in the form of a dove."
"That is a remarkable tale," she spoke softly; her eyes remained transfixed on the young saint's portrait with a gaze that held reverence and awe. Learning her story inspired Elizabeth, if even minutely, to cling to her faith just a bit more. God works in mysterious ways, she reminded herself, as He had plans for everyone. It gave her some comfort to her previous thoughts, believing that things did happen for a reason.
"It is," Angelus replied, quietly observing her reaction. "Amazing how one can remain so devoted to their faith, they'd sacrifice their own life. To have such an unbreakable power of will is something I have yet to behold," he smiled.
Maurizio returned to them, "Are we all settled to leave?" he asked politely with a smile.
"Yes, I believe that we are," Angelus stood. "William, Drusilla," he called out, "we're leaving."
Drusilla promptly hopped up and pulled Spike with her. His expression read a little more glum than irritated like he had been before.
"Beautiful service, Maurizio. Thank you for inviting us," Angelus said as they walked out.
"You're welcome. I am happy you could join me on such short notice."
┼†‡
Partway through the ride home, Drusilla and Spike had asked to leave the carriage to attend to their own business. Maurizio found that a little odd, but did not question their intentions.
When they had returned to the manor, Maurizio wished them a Merry Christmas once more.
He moved forward and took hold of Elizabeth's hand, "It has been a wonderful evening, especially in your company," he said with a lowered voice.
Angelus watched them at a short distance away.
"It was a very good service. Thank you for inviting us," Elizabeth replied kindly.
"It would be a pleasure if we could spend more time together," Maurizio gave her a small smile as he looked into her eyes, his thumb grazing over the top of her hand almost too intimately.
The polite smile she held slightly faltered, suddenly feeling uncomfortable with his small gesture.
"I shall be in my study before I retire for the night," he announced, pulling away before Elizabeth had time to respond. "If there is anything that you need, you'll know where to find me," he smiled at Angelus.
"Good night, my friend," Angelus said, giving him a smile and a nod, "Merry Christmas."
Elizabeth's expression dropped to one of unease once he was out of their sights.
Author's Note:
French Translations:
Joyeux Noël - Merry Christmas
Cosaques - Crackers (supposedly thought to be named after 'Cossack' soldiers who had reputations for riding on their horses and firing guns into the air. Hence the name for the sounds that Christmas crackers make.)
Baie des Anges - The Bay of Angels
Heya guys, it's been a little over a year since I've started posting this story on this site (since Nov 22/15). Crazy how time flies, isn't it? I honestly didn't imagine I'd still be posting now, or even if I would have. I didn't even imagine it'd be running for this long. But rest assured, the arc is coming to a fast close. Eight chapters to go, and they'll be much shorter after this- I promise. (It'll come to a point where I might even post a chapter the following day, depending how fast I get editing done. So, that's good news, at least.)
All those sexual innuendos with Christmas crackers. Oh, geez.
And that sex scene. Well, I did put a small warning beforehand, and it really wasn't that different from what they would have had in the show, either. It wasn't really graphic at all. (That might come a looot later.)
A couple points: poor Spikey boy. I felt for him again. He really is lonely despite being in the presence of others, and I'd imagine it being more difficult for him, seeing as with Drusilla's instability, she isn't fully present for him in his times of need. Liz's loneliness is more contained, but she also has a stronger support with Angelus, as he shows continual support and love. That's what I think, anyway.
And then the double whammy: him getting rejected on his proposal. Did anyone see that coming with him hiding that little box? Lol XD I thought I had given it enough subtlety, but I'm not even sure that my RP mate knew? But yes, to him, it was like that parlour scene all over again, but from a woman who actually loved him. Oh, poor boy.
And Elizabeth and her hormones. My conversation with my co-author is as follows:
Me: "I made Liz sound like a horny hormonal teen again, lol."
Her: "Lol in a way it's worse. A repressed horny teen lol"
Me: "p much"
And then on another day:
"Again, writing her like a thirsty teen."
I actually really enjoy writing those parts. She's just so new to it all and doesn't know how to go about dealing with these new sensations. It's torture for her, but comical to me, lol.
There is a little Dru and Lizzy interaction here, but not much. Hope you at least enjoyed that, BarbyChan4ever.
I've also asked my RP partner/co-author if she'd like to share a few words. I've copy/pasted her message:
"I am so surprised you all like the story. Can't take full credit from my cowriter but I am happy you all love Elizabeth as much as I do. I look forward to reading the comments and learning from criticism. It's always fun to see what you all think !"
I'm a little behind at updating the Tumblr blog, but I'll be adding a lot of graphics/images and other goodies following this chapter, including a lovely hymn that they would have heard during Mass. (If you're curious, you can YouTube search Crywolf - Act Two: A Shattering In F# Minor (Cataclasm). You won't be disappointed.)
Thanks for reading, following, and faving. (And possibly spreading the good word?)
Comments are always appreciated C:.
Cheers,
- bekindplsrewind