It had been a crazy few weeks. Freed thought through it all, he was one to compartmentalize things, sort his thoughts and keep them orderly, the chaos of the last few months though, he wouldn't even try to sort through completely, he was just happy he was where he was now.
He had about drooled when he'd seen the handsome, tall, dark haired dragon slayer that was even now leaning against the bar, chatting idly with Mira making Freeds mouth water, a number of months ago when Bosco's own White Sea guild mages had arrived as part of the 6 month exchange program. During one of the full moons, he had given into the collosal temptation of the slayer, and gotten a taste of heaven. It was more than enough to addict him, and when Cristoff had approached him the next day, so nervous and unsure the sight of the big man sheepishly asking him if he was interested in him? Gods Freed had never stood a chance.
They had become lovers, even while the craziness with Lucy had happened, he still had trouble believing it had all unfolded like it did. So much of his life spent ashamed of himself, struggling to prove his worth, loving those he was told he shouldn't. He'd really felt he'd deserved the agony of it when he and Cristoff had ended things. The pain of the decision so bad Cristoff had left Fiore completely and returned home and Freed had been looking for the shattered pieces of his heart since. Weeks had passed, with both getting weaker, both of heart and mind. A fashion week in Crocus had helped keep his mind and hands busy, but the last day...that last day is when everything had changed for the better.
Smiling fondly at the memory, and not caring that he was very obviously staring with hazy eyes at his mate, Freed watched in delight as Cristoff reached across the bar, past Mira, to snag a martini glass, followed by a couple of other bottles for the drink he knew Freed wanted. Freed remembered still the feeling of those well muscled arms wrapping around him tightly, pulling him off of the young man at the fashion show who had thought to have a go at Cristoff himself. The growl, followed by the distinct, territorial purr that only dragons made had him shivering just thinking about it. Hearing him say it then had been one of the happiest moments of his life "You are mine...my mate". Something he had prayed for for a large part of his life, maybe at first wishing it came from a tall burly blonde, but getting it instead from the raven haired Boscan? He was not the least bit disappointed.
Now, after a couple of short weeks, and their mating officially cemented with Cristoffs mark set darkly onto the side of Freeds neck, Freed felt at peace, and like he was able to relax. He already had some plans in the making for the holiday quickly approaching, and had just barely managed to sneak away for a few hours at a time here and there to search for just the right item. He knew it was cliched, and normally would avoid the cliché like the plague...but with Cristoff...he didn't care, and wanted to make Valentine's day special for the both of them. He'd never had reason to care before...before now the holiday had only been mildly depressing. But now, he was in love...and for once, the object of his affection, loved him back just as much.
Around him the crowd was as boisterous as always, people discussing plans for Valentine's day as it was just the following week. The Boscans would be leaving soon and Makarov and the team he'd taken to Bosco would return and everyone was excited about Thunder Legion sat at their usual table, Laxus beside Freed with Lucy in his lap, Bickslow and Cobra across from them, and on Freeds other side was room aplenty for Cristoff to join them. Looking around at those he considered family, and the place he called home, Freed felt his smile bloom fully. For the first time in longer than he could remember, he was truly happy.
Turning back to eye his mates broad back, eyes trailing down to a trim waist and hips and the flawless swell of a well toned ass encased in snug faded denim. Freed debated running a finger over his mark to encourage a possibility of turning in early for more...pleasant exercises, He loved that the mark worked so well, that he could just drag his finger over it and soon expect to have an amorous growling dragon tackle him and start tearing his clothes off. He didn't abuse it, just liked...teasing, now and then, it was wonderful seeing those midnight blue eyes turn silver and feeling his own powerful desires reflected back to him through their bond.
He'd licked his finger, eyes following the way denim stretched over muscled thighs, feeling himself getting hard, hungrier by the moment for his mates attention and was about to drag that finger over the mark, when his communications lacrima went off. Hearing that tone, that specific tone, Freed froze in place as he felt the blood drain from his face and his heart began to race as fear hit him as hard as one of Laxus strongest lightning hits. He didn't see Cristoff spin around, he didn't hear Laxus or Cobra trying to get his attention, he didn't feel Lucy touch his arm, he only knew the storm of fear and pain that swamped him before he bolted from the guild hall, acting on instinct to activate his wings so he could get away faster, find somewhere secure before answering that call. He knew he didn't have much time, if he didn't answer quickly, he knew there would be consequences.
He didn't stop moving until he reached the clearing in the forest that he went to to train. Drawing ragged, deep breaths, he tugged and tucked, straightened his clothing and hair until he looked presentable, and slid his icy mask back into place before answering the call that was sure to bring more pain and nightmares for the following week. Clearing his throat, taking one last deep breath, he pulled his com lacrima out, and accepted the call.
"Hello Father, to what do I owe the pleasure of this call?" Freed asked smoothly, meeting the cold hard light blue eyes of Lord Justine of Shirotsumi. His face did not falter in the slightest at the sneer he was given, nor acknowledge the wave of rage that flowed through him at the disgusted look that appeared in his fathers eyes as they moved over him.
"The least you could've done was take a shower and prepare yourself properly before you took my call Francis. If you're going to be out whoring yourself with men, you could take more consideration into that before speaking with me."
"I have been doing no such thing Father, as I know how you feel on the subject, but that is neither here nor there, as you will believe what you wish to believe. Is that all Father?" Freed asked calmly, his eyes still cool and calm on his fathers, even as they flashed with hatred.
"You will watch how you speak to me Francis, I am your father, and you will do well to remember that. You are to be home in two days time, by sunset. I am done with these frivolous games you have been playing. There is a dinner party being held that requires your presence in four days. If you do not arrive in two days, you will not like the consequences." With that his father disconnected the call. For a moment, just a moment, Freed merely continued to stand there, lacrima in hand. He knew what this was about. He knew the only reason that his father would call him home at this point.
As the rage built, mixing with the fear, and the pain of his past, he began to tremble, his hand tightening until the lacrima in his hand shattered, and the scream of rage he released destroyed the many trees surrounding him, boulders trembling until they collapsed into piles of rubble from the magical pressure.
Then his world went black.
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"Hey Mira, what's Freeds favorite drink?" Cristoff asked, leaning against the bar with a charming smile. He knew he didn't have to try hard to get on her good side, ever since she had found out he had mated the guilds resident rune mage, pulsing hearts tended to replace her eyes when she saw them together.
"Hmm? Oh that would be a 50/50 martini sweet. Tends to pack a punch, but can't really taste the alcohol." Mira stated with an indulgent smile. "Want me to whip one up for him?"
"Nah I got it." Cristoff answered, reaching past her to grab the needed glass and alcohol. He swore he couldn't stop smiling. All that worry, all that desperate desire his heart had been trying to tell him weeks before when Lucy had unknowingly beat his dragon into submission, he should've listened then. He should've remembered that Nurem had told him that he'd only be able to fall in love with his mate. His heart had known, had been trying to tell him when his dragon couldn't. And now, he could feel the love, the contentment, the peace just pulsing through their bond, with a hint of arousal. Hmm, more than a hint he smirked. He didn't have to look to know that Freed was blatantly staring at him, and if what he was feeling was any indication, there was a chance they'd turn in early for the night. Good, he had no problems at all getting more alone time with his new mate. Their bond was still new, growing, and the more time they spent together, the more affection he lavished on Freed, the better it would get.
He was happy. They were happy. They were still trying to figure out the living situation, and who would end up where but honestly...Cristoff found himself happy in Magnolia, and knew that his particular skill set could be mighty handy in Fiore. Knowing that this was Freeds home, and that at least two of his other siblings would actually be here had him leaning very heavily towards staying in Magnolia too. Zen had already told the family he would remain in Fairy Tail, though he and Erza would be living in MInstrel for 8 months out of the year so he could attend the University there. With Bickslow already long since well settled, it just made sense to Cristoff, Freed already owned a lovely home and Cristoff could easily sell his house in White Sea.
He'd already staked out the den where his piano was going to be when it was delivered soon and Zen had eagerly offered to buy all of his furniture and such from the house in White Sea since he and Erza were house shopping in Magnolia, wanting to have their home here established before the wedding and Zen had always loved all of Cristoffs overstuffed furniture. His Dragon Slayer urge to nest into soft comfortable things firmly in place now.
He was just putting the finishing touches on Freeds drink, when he felt it, and staggered under the tidal wave of fear and rage that flooded their bond before it cut off, leaving him floundering. Swaying in place for a moment, and shaking his head to try and get his senses straight, he spun around to find Freed pale as a ghost, and with his heightened sense could see that his mates pupils had shrunk to pinpoints, and heard his heart began to race before Freed bolted out of the guild, doors slamming open before him.
Without a word, Cristoff took off after him, Laxus, Lucy, Cobra and Bickslow following close behind him.
He could smell Freed on the breeze but couldn't see him, and instinctively he knew that Freed had flown away. Skidding to a stop, he knew the others did the same, and he scanned the skies, trying to pinpoint his mates smell. Even as he did that, he shot out a question to those with him.
"What the FUCK just happened?!" Cristoff snarled, his teeth bared, his dragon straining at him to keep going. He had caught Freeds scent, and was ready to take off again, but he needed to know what the hell he was running into.
"His father called him, he's a fucking asshole, abuses the hell out of Freed, beyond that, no fucking idea." Laxus replied, catching Freeds scent as well and taking over leading the way out of the city. He could hear Cristoff close behind him, and knew when they found Freed he would have to get out of the way, but for now, he would simply do all he could to help his kin.
They had just broken free of the edge of the city when they felt the sudden increase of magical pressure and after exchanging a mere glance, Laxus tapped into his lightning teleport, while Cristoff tapped into his lunar magic, both disappearing from one second to the next. Blinking in shock the others kept going, following the magical signature that was still pulsing from somewhere ahead. Before too much longer they were darting past trees, leaves and branches blurring as they raced past before it suddenly changed into destroyed nature.
Pushing aside damaged foliage and branches bent at odd angles, Lucy stopped next to Laxus and the Lightning slayer immediately grabbed her and pulled her to him protectively, Bickslow and Cobra stopping on the other side of Cristoff. They watched in shock as Freed in his demon form flat out raged against a large boulder on the other side of the clearing they had come to. It wasn't often any of them saw him in this form, and knew that his control was non-existent, thus they were hesitant to approach him.
Gulping hard against seeing his mate in such obvious turmoil, Cristoff only took long enough to tap into his dragon force and race forward. He had known Freed was powerful, had felt him let go when they were intimate, but this...he was quick to duck as a slash of vivid red flew towards him...this was another level and knew he would do all he could to take what caused this level pain away from him. Darting around him, Cristoff managed to just barely get under Freeds guard and right into his personal space, tackling him to the ground.
Feeling him thrashing so hard against his hold, trying so hard to get away from him had Cristoffs heart clenching, but he refused to let go. They had already gone through a rough enough time before they had mated, he'd be damned if he let anything else cause problems now.
"Freed! Freed please stop! Come back to me Freed, please!" Cristoff bit out, doing all he knew, following his instincts to nuzzle Freed, pressing his lips, his face, managing to tuck his head into the curve of Freeds neck. He would fully admit that he was whimpering, worried, and didn't even notice the tears tracking down his cheeks. All he could do was hold on every muscle in his body straining until Freed fell still, and when he cracked open his eyes, pale skin met his gaze once more.
He could feel the smaller body trembling under him, could hear the muffled sobs, and felt his dragon rage within, wanting to destroy whatever was causing his mate such distress.
"Freed...please...tell me what happened...why did you run?" Cristoff whispered, pressing as closely as he could, still nuzzling him.
"H-he...my father...he called...I have to come home...two days...have to there in two days...or I'll regret it...I'm going to lose you Cristoff...he always does whatever he can to hurt me...he'll find a way to come between us...I can't lose you...!" Freed sobbed, wrapping his arms around the larger male, curling around him, trying to get as close as possible.
Purring softly, soothingly, Cristoff pulled Freed as close as he could, continuing to nuzzle Freed as he shifted them so Cristoff was the one on the ground, cradling the smaller male in his lap. This was definitely one of the times he was grateful for his instincts, as he hummed softly, lifting his gaze to meet the saddened yet rage filled eyes of Laxus at the edge of the trees.
'Cobra, tell them to head to our place.' Cristoff instructed, and without another thought, he used his lunar shift to get them home, still cradling his mate against his chest and striding inside. He had just made it into the lounge, settling onto one of the couches when Laxus' thunderclap echoed right outside of the house. A moment later Lucy hurried in and after one look at them, turned to hurry into the kitchen for drinks while Laxus, Cobra, and Bickslow settled in around them.
They could only watch, feeling helpless, as Freed settled down into quietly shaking, burying his face into Cristoffs shoulder. Cristoff just continued to hold him, rocking in place, waiting until Lucy had come back in to hand out drinks before finally speaking.
"I need to know more, why would Freeds father try to hurt him?" Cristoff asked quietly, arms tightening when Freed jerked, running his hands soothingly over his back and arms. Nose pushing in near Freeds ear, lips pressing warmly against the skin there
"As I said earlier, their relationship is total shit at best. His father is Lord Abraham Justine of Shirotsumi, a noble, and the asshat has these fucked up expectations for his family, typical Fioran nobility crap but Freeds father takes it to a whole new level of bullshit." Laxus explained, wrapping his hand around the heavy mug that Lucy handed him before shifting so she could slide down into his lap.
"For as long as I can remember, Freed and his father have always had a shitty relationship. His father thinks being a mage is beneath them, and did all he could to get Freed to give up the idea of being one. Over the years, periodically, Freed would get called home for one thing or another, and if he tried to ignore those summons, a number of days later he would be staggering into the guild hall needing medical attention." Bix continued, eyes saddened as he remembered the first time he had seen the result of his friend suffering at his fathers hands.
"Wait...did you say Lord Justine?" Lucy asked softly, settling into Laxus' lap, not complaining when he wrapped his arms around her.
"Yea, he's one mean son of a bitch, for Freeds sake, I wish the bastard would just disown him already, not like Freed needs him or his money or any fucking thing that goes with him...especially now." Laxus huffed, burying his face in her hair, drawing in her smell to help keep him calm.
"Holy hell...before I left the Konzern...my father was considering arranging a marriage with the Justines oldest son...but that never went through." Lucy murmured, looking at Freed with wide eyes.
"Wow...so if you hadn't left...and if Freed hadn't already joined Fairy Tail...you two might've ended up married to each other. Freed is the oldest son. His younger brother is still there, pretty good kid in all honesty, and has been trying to find a way to keep Freed off of their fathers radar permanently when it comes to certain things." Bickslow stated, blinking as he looked between Lucy and Freed, trying to picture them married and coming up short. He didn't have to look to know that Cobra shuddered next to him.
"Nothing against Freed or Lucy, but that's a situation I'm glad didn't work out...I don't want to think about what the fallout would've been if that had happened and then Laxus and Cristoff came along at some point and met them." Cobra stated firmly, taking another long drink from his bleach infused tea.
"Doesn't matter. We have to figure out what we're going to do about whatever is happening in a few days." Cristoff snarled, worried about the feeling of desperation that was simply pouring off of Freed.
"Apparently he's been summoned home, has to be there by sunset in two days time. If he's not, there will be consequences of some sort." Cobra said quietly, wincing when he heard Freeds soul surge louder in anger and fear. "There's a dinner party in four days that requires his presence...what the hell kind of consequence has there been that you had to make those memories hazy Bix?" Cobra asked quietly as Freeds soul became foggy when it drifted into the last time his father had summoned him.
Cristoff sensed it though and tightened his arms around him, cupped his cheek and made him look at him before kissing him softly, pressing his forehead to Freeds "You know, you can touch me, kiss me, Gods one of your right hooks but don't close me out, involve me Freed, I'm yours, you're mine, don't be afraid to take what you need of me ok?" Freed met his eyes, still too emotional to speak yet but he pressed a shaky kiss to his mates warm lips.
Letting out a tired sigh, Bix answered Cobra, and the others who were giving him curious looks. "After the first time I saw it happen to him, I got his permission to haze out those memories because of how...well...thorough they were. Any time he didn't follow his fathers orders, or didn't answer a call quickly when his father reached out to him, his father would send some...nasties to teach him a thing or two, bastard even employed dark wizards from Nightmare a couple of times giving them permission to do things to Freed since he thought Freed apparently felt "whoring himself to other men" was preferable to speaking to his father." Bix explained.
"It happened a lot when I first met Freed, less after the Thunder Legion was fully formed because Gramps told Freeds father to back off and I went and visited him off the record to kind of back that concept up, before Wendy came to us, but we've had to have Porlyusica come to the guild to help him a few times. Freed didn't want the memories wiped out, but he needed them hazed so he could fucking sleep and still know his father had done some nasty shit." Laxus finished, playing with the ends of Lucys hair.
"What are we going to do now then?" Lucy asked.
"I have to go. I don't want them coming here again, I have to answer those summons." Freed answered quietly, his voice ragged from the crying and screaming he had put it through.
"Would he send more dark mages? You know White Sea specializes in wiping those out, love. I may specialize in healing but I didn't earn my shields with the knights doing that." Cristoff said softly, running his fingers through Freeds sweat soaked hair.
"If I don't go...he'll send some of his lackeys or hire dark mages like he's done before, I'd bet the later honestly, he made it clear he would go as far as he had to...I can't keep going through this, he'll hurt others, the guild, all of you, there's really no limits to how far he'd be willing to go if I defy him. I have to go back to face him…. I know what it's about." Freed continued, sipping carefully on the cup of hot tea he had been handed. He had hit the point of feeling numb, not even aware of the silent tears still escaping his eyes.
"Ok, and that is?"
"I had forgotten...I've been so busy thinking about happier things lately… "He said with a thin smile giving Cristoff a watery look that earned him a kiss on his temple "...I should've remembered...every year, around this time, Father holds a dinner party for our family and one other. The other family being the one being considered for marriage. If the contract is agreed upon, the marriage is held on Valentines Day. If it's not agreed upon, they enjoy the evening, then go their separate ways for another year. But this year...this is one that the contract has been agreed upon for years." Freed explained.
"Arranged marriage? Your father has set up an arranged marriage for you? If that's the case then there is no worry, our situation, you being my mate, will free you from that." Cristoff stated firmly, lifting his hands to massage lightly at the tension he knew had built in Freeds shoulders. He could only blink when Freed shook his head hard.
"It won't! My father refuses to acknowledge bonds like ours, and refuses to accept my preferences too, he never has. He forced women on me when I was younger, telling me that a man would not produce heirs, and I had better learn how to fuck a woman! I left, or tried to leave that place behind, but he keeps me in a stranglehold with other things! I am the oldest, the heir to the family, so I have responsibilities that I must take on." Freed snarled, anger flashing out again as he threw his, now thankfully empty, cup across the room to shatter against a wall.
"Freed, shh….calm love" Cristoff hummed trailing his cheek against Freeds again and as the soft mint scent of his Dragon Slayer covered him, the warm protective feel of him surrounded him, Freed met those midnight blue eyes and Cristoff smiled "We'll get through this. We'll go with you, help keep things at bay, if a dragon queens venom couldn't keep me from ultimately claiming you, then this sure as hell won't." Cristoff soothed, pressing his lips against Freeds temple.
"But he has his fingers in so many things, ways to get what he wants." Freed whimpered but closed his eyes, drinking in the comfort Cristoff was so good at giving..
"And so do we. Remember Freed, my father is the Ambassador of Bosco, his reach is much longer than your dads, add in Farron, who is even HERE and there's not much your Dad could do, not against my family, which I'll remind you is becoming YOUR family now, and if I have to pull on those particular strings then so be it. I'm not about to let something like this take you away from me, an overcharged Dragon Queen couldn't, " He said, winking at Lucy who winced when he said it anyway "your father won't either." Cristoff reassured, still running his fingers through the hair at Freeds temple.
"Please Cristoff...he is my father, I swear, he's powerful, and willing to do anything, sink to any depths he has to...if we're going to do this we have to do it carefully. I don't want to give him anything that would give him leverage against you. He doesn't approve of public displays of affection, and is strongly against same sex relationships. If I wasn't the oldest and the heir, he likely would've disowned me long ago." Freed murmured, dreading the trip to head to his family estate. Having turned and buried his face against the strong shoulder he was leaning against, he didn't see the looks being exchanged between Bix and Cobra.
"Cris...there may be a way to help this a bit more..give you a bit more leverage..." Bix stated carefully, drawing his brothers eyes to the way that Bix was tapping his ring finger against his leg. Blinking at that gesture, Cristoff blinked for a moment before his eyes flew wide, missing the way Cobra facepalmed at the obvious answer. Turning carefully, Cristoff eased Freed to the cushion next to him before kneeling before him.
"Freed...there's a way to keep from any contract that your father may come up with to tie you in by obligation or responsibility. You don't have to be there for two days right?" Cristoff asked gently, reaching up to carefully brush away the few tears that were still clinging to his cheeks.
"I have to be there in two days, by sunset. You don't understand Cristoff, there is no way for it to be avoided, Father will fight with everything he is to get a profitable arranged marriage out of me." Freed whispered, hiccuping slightly, leaning into Cristoffs gentle touch. He couldn't lose this, he'd barely gotten him, this incredible person who made him feel cherished, who accepted him, returned his love and gave more. He wanted more, needed more of this man, there was no way he'd survive being separated from him, not now, not after a lifetime of isolation and feelings of guilt and frustration that Cristoff seemed to sweep away with every touch, every kiss.
"But there is a way Freed...I was going to wait until next week, but I don't mind doing this sooner." Cristoff stated, leaning forward to nuzzle Freeds cheek, trying to calm him.
"What are you talking about Cris?" Freed murmured, eyes falling shut as he drew comfort from the nuzzling. Breathed in that delicious mint scent and curled the fingers of one of his hands in the ends of thick soft black hair.
" Marry me... I was going to wait until Valentines Day to ask you, but this is just as good a time as any. You're my mate, I don't want anything coming between us, not even your father." Cristoff explained, leaning back to reach into his pocket, pulling out the small box that had been weighing down his pocket for weeks now. Shortly after their return from fashion week, Cristoff had found a package waiting for him at the guild, courtesy of his father, and the note had been explanation enough.
'Cristoff,
Kaleb contacted me, told me you were able to find out what had been making you so sick. Congratulations on finding your mate my son, I'm sure you'll know what to do with this item. Do me proud as you always have.
Dad'
Wrapped up in a small square of silk had been a polished ring, and the significance of it had not been lost on him, nearly sending him to his knees as he had been overwhelmed. The polished silver ring with a single deep blue gem embedded into the metal, and the gentle pulse of magic had been familiar. He would know his mother, Nurems, magic anywhere.
Now, he drew the small box he had gotten for it out of his pocket and held it up to Freed, watching in loving amusement as his eyes flew wide and shock made him speechless.
"Ok, official...we're already mates...and I know not everyone accepts the bonds that come with it...this will make them accept what we are to each other." The big dragon slayer smiled up at him and Freeds heart seized at seeing the same nervous slightly sheepish look he'd seen on that handsome face the day after the full moon months ago,
"Freed Justine I Cristoff Rendevere Pradesh ask to take you in marriage, to stand at my side through my challenges and joy, to share my bed, parent whatever children may come, an equal partner at my side for all time. Do you accept?" Cristoff asked, aware that those behind him were watching just as much with wide eyes and bated breath, as he was with the breath that stalled in his lungs.
"Ar-are you serious?" Freed breathed, blinking in shock as the blue gem waiting for his answer seemed to wink at him.
"I've never been more so. I want you Freed, in every way that you'll have me." Cristoff replied rubbing his thumb over the guild seal on the back of the hand he was holding.
"It looks like you beat me to this then...I was going to ask you on Valentines Day as well, if I hadn't gotten this call from my father." Freed stated, reach past the ring to push his fingers into Cristoffs thick dark hair.
"Well...I think you can figure out what my answer would've been then, considering what I'm doing now...I still need an official answer I can take to my father..." Cristoff prodded gently.
"Oh Cristoff, you have to know my answer is yes, always yes." Freed whispered, pulling Cristoff in hard for a deep kiss, not hearing the explosion of exclamations that escaped the others who had been waiting impatiently.
"Does this mean I can call and tell Dad now?" Bix asked, jumping at the light cuff he received across the back of his head. He could only grin as Cristoff broke free from Freed and turned, giving him a nod before removing the ring from the box to slide it securely onto Freeds ring finger. Everyone watched in awe as the ring glowed for a moment before settling, and the could see the ring was a slightly different size now.
"Nurem provided one of her smaller scales to make that gem, and the ring was spelled to fit whoever my mate ended up being. Also, you and I are the only ones who can take it off, if anyone else tries, they'll get a nasty jolt." Cristoff explained, running a gentle thumb over the cool metal that was already warming to Freeds skin. Continuing to nuzzle him, soothing him, Cristoff eased back onto the couch, pulling Freed into his lap once more, guiding his hand to his chest and pressing it over his heart "Yours" he whispered and Freed smiled, pressing into those warm arms harder.
They both watched silently as Bix pulled a lacrima out of his pocket and with a pulse of magic called their father. They had a lot to do in a short amount of time.
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Two days later, the day dawned bright with a clear blue sky, a few fluffy clouds, and the sun peaking over the edge of the houses, gently batting away the chill that hung in the air this time of year. In their shared home, Freed rolled over with a hum of contentment, reaching for Cristoff even in his sleep. When his hand instead met cool sheets, his eyes cracked open, looking around their room trying to find the allusive slayer. He smiled smelling mint as he pressed his face into Cristoffs pillow.
"Come on slow poke! We've got to catch the train in a couple of hours, you need to shower and eat! Breakfast is waiting!"
Hearing Cristoff call up to him from the stairs, Freed sat up, running his fingers through his hair to gain some semblance of order before rolling from the bed. Stretching his arms above his head, he twisted from one side to another, working the stiffness from his limbs before shuffling to the bathroom attached to the bedroom. Before long the steam from the shower filled the room, and stepping under the stream of hot water, he didn't jump when he heard a distinctly pleased purr. Instead he simply looked over his shoulder to find Cristoff stepping in behind him, purring himself when thick muscled arms wrapped around him.
"I decided you needed this more than breakfast at the moment,so breakfast is waiting in the oven." With that said, Cristoff spun Freed around, pressing him back against the tiled wall before dropping to his knees, causing Freed to gasp as Cristoffs warm lips closed around him. "Oh yes, definitely better than breakfast." Freed breathed out, threading his fingers into Cristoffs dark hair as his head fell back against the tile.
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The train ride had been nerve wracking for Freed. For every mile that separated him from Magnolia, from Fairy Tail, the place he called home, the more nervous he became. Cristoff sat beside him, arms wrapped securely around Freed, while Laxus and Lucy, Bickslow and Cobra sat around them in the private compartment they had claimed for themselves.
Freed had been honestly surprised when the others had met them at the train station, and even as he sputtered, trying to convince them that they didn't need to go, they had simply ignored him and filed onto the train. By then he had simply given in, realizing that they were just as determined to be there for this, to help him, as he was nervous.
Along the way, they had discussed the different ways they were to act, to help keep from disrespecting Freeds father, and giving him some form of ammunition to use against them. Now, they were all stepping off of the train, looking around at the bustling platform.
"Remember, my father simply loathes public displays of affection. Laxus, Lucy, you two will have it easier because you two are essentially engaged, and so kisses on each others cheeks, linking arms, that'll be fine. Anything beyond that my father will see as inappropriate. Bix, Cobra, you two will have to act like you're not together, and will likely end up in separate rooms. I'll try and get that fixed as quickly as possible. Cristoff...we can't show any forms of affection, the fact that we're mated and he doesn't know yet isn't going to sit well with him as it is." Freed rambled, reaching up to tug on the neck of his coat, making sure every last bit was in place. It wasn't until Cristoff reached up to catch his hands that Freed even realized what he had been doing.
Lucy stepped up and pressed a hand to the Rune mages cheek, grinning at him "Freed, I was a debutante, we were almost contracted to marry, believe me, I get how to act and I'll make sure tall blonde and sparky handles himself well as my fiance." She said brightly, dropping a lovely curtsy that even drew a smile to Freeds face.
His mate caught one of his fidgeting hands, and brushed a kiss along his knuckles. "Freed, you'll be fine, I won't leave sight of you, we have our aces stacked, we will get past this, you just need to play your part and believe we can, treat this like a job, if you worry yourself to bits then your father will win before you even get a chance to fight. We already know he's going to lose, my father already pushed the papers through so our engagement is legal, and to try and break that would be hazardous for your fathers health in many ways. We are here to help you, I am here right at your side, come what may and you are not alone in this. Just a few days, and we'll get married when WE want to, not when someone else decides it." Cristoff soothed, drawing Freed in against him in one last hug that Freed pressed hard into, his lips stealing into where Cristoffs shirt was unbuttoned to take a brief taste before he had to lock himself behind the mask he always wore around his family.
"Now, we need to get going, it'll be sunset soon enough, and we don't want to chance anything with your father. So let's go, we know our roles in this." Turning, Cristoff led the way out of the station, somehow not surprised to find a large carriage waiting, the driver standing beside it with a sign showing that it was for the Justine group. Nodding to Freed, Cristoff swept a hand out before him, indicating that he should take the lead. Some things they had already done. Cristoff was in his Knights regalia, all black and gold, the golden shields he had earned glinting on his right shoulder, the medals on his left indicating the dozens of battles he'd been involved in. His rank as a captain of the Knights of Immaculate light showing all on the ceremonial Tunic. Black breeches with gold embroidered stripes down the outside of the legs, knee high black boots adorned with gold. Black cloak with gold embroidery and embellishments all around the edges.
It was what he wore when he served guard duty for the royal family or his father or older brother on diplomatic missions for Bosco.
"My father called ahead after we explained what was happening, and set this up for us so we could focus on what needs to be done." Cristoff stated, following Freed closely, enjoying the view of Freeds ass right in front of him as they climbed into the carriage. Freed froze for a moment before continuing, a little surprised to find that Farron was already in the carriage, looking through a file, barely sparing a glance to the others as they took seats around him. The mans sky blue eyes warmed on him as he came into the carriage. His other surprise was Vander sitting beside him head to foot in his black and red leather, he got a wink from wine colored eyes that looked far too happy to be there.
"This is the paperwork making your engagement official. When you get to your fathers estate, find out for certain what is happening before you inform him of this. We want to give him just enough to essentially hang himself to make sure we're not wrongly accusing him." Farron stated, eyes running over the different lists and sheets of information given. He nodded toward Vander "Vander will be serving as your personal guard, he won't be seen, your father won't even know he's there at all but he'll be with you every single moment, something he's extremely good at and has done more times than any of us like to think about." Farron said smirking at his baby brother.
"Yeah because following your ass around about bores me to damn tears at times." Vander retorted, Farron just giving him a knowing look and shrugging.
"Farron, you...I...thank you." Freed breathed, leaning into the arm that Cristoff wrapped around him.
"Anything for the person who makes my brothers happy, whether as a friend or as a mate. You are officially family, and we take care of family." Farron explained with a smile, lifting his eyes to meet the wide aqua colored ones of his brother-in-law. "I'll be staying nearby for the duration of this particular...obstacle...to make sure things go smoothly, and that your father doesn't try to mess anything up for you."
"Again, thank you."
"Of course. Oh, and if your father asks why you have so many people here with you, use us as an excuse, let it be known that all of you have been requested in Bosco after your visit with your father, so it was easier for you to travel together then continue on from your fathers home."
"Is this actually true?" Freed asked, brows furrowing together in confusion. His father would check, would find out if it was a ruse.
"Yes it is, Dad wants to see all of you anyways, so he figured this would be as good a time as any to visit with what family he can. He's already made arrangements, the airship will be ready and waiting the day after Valentines. If we need the ship sooner, it can be arranged." Farron explained, leaning down to tuck the folder into the case at his feet. "If all else fails, and your father proves to be a bit more...difficult...I'll make a visit with the paperwork needed to help you both out. I'll admit, a part of me kinda hopes he pushes our hand and makes me come out there. I'd love to see how he stands up against an Ambassador who is also friends with royalty." Farron smirked, leaning back to cross his arms comfortably, amusement very clear in his pale eyes as he ran his gaze over Cristoff and Freed. "Honestly, you both are looking worlds better, I'd do anything I can to keep that going."
"We're trying to part as peacefully as possible from his father Farron, not create more problems." Laxus sighed, letting his head fall back.
"I understand that. That is why dad has made this into an official job Laxus. You, Lucy, Bix, and Cobra are attending Cristoff and Freed to this event as extra protection. Dad further stated that if his father questioned it, then to use the excuse that he's protecting his investment." Farron added with a shrug.
"Wait, Arman made us coming with Freed into an actual job?" Laxus asked, blinking in surprise.
"Yup. After you guys called the other night, he reached out to Mira and made an official request. Here's the flier for proof." Farron confirmed, reaching into a coat pocket to pull out a folded piece of paper, handing it over to Laxus.
Giving it a quick scan, Laxus smirked and passed the paper to Bix and Cobra who looked over it as well, beginning to smile. "I'll say this for Arman, he certainly knows how to cover tracks."
"Remember, he was a mage before he became the ambassador, he hasn't forgotten the tricks." Cristoff snarked, snatching the paper from Bix's hand to look it over, grinning widely.
Personal request for the following Fairy Tail guild mages:
Laxus, Lucy, Bickslow, Cobra, and Cristoff
To accompany Freed Justine to Bosco.
Arman Pradesh, Ambassador of Bosco requests his presence by no later
than the day after Valentine's Day.
Jewel Awarded:
250,000 per mage
Lifting his arm, Cristoff was quick to fold it up and hand it to Laxus. "Make sure you keep that safe, there's no reason for him to bar us entrance to his home now."
"Indeed. And gives us a reason to keep close to him. May even be able to wrangle it so Cristoff is in the same room as you Freed." Cobra stated.
"That's not going to happen. We may just barely be able to get away with making this into a type of job, but having Cristoff in the same room? My father won't allow that. He is very much against same sex couples, and is determined that I will marry a woman to produce an heir." Freed argued, letting his head fall back as his eyes fell closed. "We should rest while we can, we'll be there in about half an hour." With his eyes closed, he didn't see the worried glances that were exchanged.
It was about forty minutes later when the carriage rocked to a stop. Before anyone could say a word, Freed was standing and stepping down from the carriage. Following close behind him Cristoff was quick to touch his shoulder, drawing him to a stop.
"Freed, wait, we need to wait for the others if we're going to pull this off." Cristoff urged quietly, fighting back a shudder and a growl of distress when the aqua colored eyes that he loved so much met his and were dull, cold, and emotionless. It was official, the moment he had a chance, even if it meant when they were on their way out of this place, Freeds father was going to get a beating from him. That feeling only strengthened when Freed stepped away from him, keeping about an arms length between them. He didn't have to look to know that the others had joined him as Freed simply turned and kept on his way.
Feeling a hand touch his elbow, Cristoff turned to find Cobra standing there, Bix giving him a quick nod before following Freed.
"I'll keep you informed on how he's doing if we have times he can't tell you himself. I can tell you right now, he wanted to touch you, but to keep you from being targeted directly he's going to keep himself distant. So right now, he just needs you to hang in there for him. He's your mate, you'll both get through this." Cobra murmured, and with a clap to his shoulder, hurried after Bix. Taking a deep breath, Cristoff looked back over his shoulder at Farron, and with a nod, the carriage pulled away, leaving Cristoff to hurry after the others. He managed to just barely step up on Freeds free side, the others having made sure he could be right by Freed, when the door creaked open, showing a stiff older gentleman, his clothes pressed and so sharply in line Cristoff had a momentary thought that the creases might be sharp enough to slice through skin.
The clearing of a throat had Cristoff glancing to the side, seeing that Cobras lips were twitching. Ok, so maybe that thought hadn't been as quiet as he had hoped it would be.
"Ah young master Francis, you've finally returned home. And I see you have...guests. Was your father expecting them sir?" The butler asked, his voice flat and yet condescending at the same time. Narrowing his eyes, Cristoff was about to answer when Freed stepped forward.
"Yes I am home Edward, for now at least. And I doubt he was, but he'll have to accept it, due to a job request and official business he has absolutely no say or choices about." Freed explained stiffly. "We'll be staying in the same wing, make sure rooms are readied for them." With that said, Freed stepped toward Edward, forcing him to take a step back, allowing the others to step past as well.
"Is Father in his study?" Freed asked, peering around the foyer impassively.
"Of course. He's going over the menu for the dinner party in a couple of days. He did say he wanted you to come see him as soon as you arrived. Just you sir." Edward started, running a narrow eyed gaze over the others with Freed.
"I'm afraid that won't be acceptable. Due to a job request, I have to have at least two of this group with me at all times." Freed stated firmly.
"You know your father won't allow it sir." Edward argued, turning his steel gray gaze on him.
"He will if he knows what's best for him." Cristoff stated coldly, stepping up to tower over Edward.
"Lord Justine does not take threats lightly." Edward sniffed haughtily, running his gaze over Cristoffs frame, his eyes only faltering a couple of times as they passed over Cristoffs medals and rank insignia and the glittering broadsword hilt at his hip, still though dismissing him to focus on Freed. "He will not allow this sir. It was supposed to be just you coming as it has been in the past. You know he does not make exceptions."
"He will this time. Cristoff, Cobra, follow me, I need to find out what my father is wanting. Get the others set up in the same wing as my room, they're required to be nearby." Without another word, Freed turned and hurried away, Cobra and Cristoff flanking him.
Cristoff calmed himself with some effort, reining in his dragons need to be protective. He and Freed were still very newly mated, the third bite was less than a week old, not even healed fully though it was hidden well by the deep swirls of the mark showing Cristoffs name in Draconic and the symbols of his magic, a moon, with a dragon wrapped around it. He remembered Freed sitting for nearly two hours carefully recreating the mark in a sketch he gave to Reedus, insisting he wanted a painting of it.
He kept touching it while looking at it in the mirror and had drawn Cristoff growling and heated to him more than once before he'd finished, grinning wickedly when he'd come down into the basement where they had cleared an area for Cristoff to put in a weight bench and a punching bag to find his dragon expending the energy and frustration Freeds handling of the mark had caused on the heavily re-enforced bag.
"All done...now, I have some time before I need to..oomph!" He'd not gotten it all out before Cristoff had tackled him to the ground and kept him there for more than hour making his mate scream his name over and over until finally letting him cum, growling possessively "Next time you play with that mark I'm not likely to be as indulgent…" He'd warned but Freeds soft nuzzling and skilled touches had calmed the Dragon into a purring mess soon after. Cristoff had always been a very stable Dragon Slayer, his full moon escapades seemed to keep him balanced the rest of the time, but Freed brought the Dragon out of him more than anything ever had before, and he wasn't sure he minded it. He had never struggled for control before like most Dragon Slayers did, his just wasn't that kind of magic...except during full moons of course.
Freed made him feel like the Dragon Slayer he was, made those parts of him come to bear more completely than they ever had before, it was taking some adjusting on his part, but for the emerald haired rune mage he loved so much, it was a small challenge he gladly accepted. He just needed to keep it tightly under control through this, he would not let Freed down, he would protect his mate, be there for him, defend their happiness now that they finally had it.
Cobra smiled faintly, following Cristoffs soul more than Freeds as they crossed the massive mansion. Freeds soul was bound up now, it was like every part of him had slipped into this suffocating restraint that was obviously well practiced and it made Cobras ass twitch that his friend had to be like this around his own fucking family, so, he listened in on Cristoff, who let little through, too practiced around sound mages, Bickslow and his mindbender brother not to have some damn good barriers up, but Cobra still caught the mans powerful protectiveness directed at his mate, the devotion, dedication and fierce determination to see this through and get back to being happy with his new mate.
It made Cobra grateful again...endlessly really he felt that gratitude, that Bickslow was his mate, that the Seith had this large loving loyal and dedicated family supporting each other. They had welcomed Erik with open arms from the start and after a visit to Bosco, meeting Bickslows sisters and father and spending a little time where he'd grown up, he saw why his mate was such a free and fun person most of the time.
Cristoff, he felt, really was his brother now, he'd become kin too, had felt Cristoff take him as kin as well, the bond of family was strong, and he would freely admit, he liked Freed coming into that warm and wonderful fold, becoming his brother in-law at Cristoffs side. He'd never thought he'd mate with a man, Gajeel had explained it not long after he'd joined Fairy Tail, that male to male mating was common in Dragons, and even though not as necessary in Dragon Slayers, the magic didn't differentiate.
He'd harbored some of the doubts and hang ups others did about it, more than most really because of what he'd been through at the tower, but Bicksow...Gods the man was just...sexy as all hell and Cobra still couldn't get enough of him, doubted he ever would, didn't want to either, was content to be wildly turned on by his mate and stupidly in love with him. They just...fit.
It wasn't the buck ass crazy shit he and Bickslow shared, but he saw that same close tight fit with Cristoff and Freed. Both so collected, had their shit together, Cristoff an open and free, confident compassionate romantic, Freed quiet, shy, uncertain and almost afraid, supported, brought out of his shell by Cristoffs gentle yet powerful support and now, able to walk head high even though his soul was a writhing mess of fear, hatred, frustration and fury because Cristoffs calm presence was at his side.
Regardless of what Freed had said, they really needed to keep the two of them together, Freed was going to need every second of close proximity to Cristoff through this, and Cobra knew...Cristoff would need it too, they were just too newly mated for this sort of strain on them.
Freed approached 12 foot high double doors and drew a deep breath and Cristoff and Cobra exchanged glances, both men steeling themselves as two large guards stepped forward, as they did though, so did Cobra and Cristoff.
"Only you Master Justine...nobody else is allowed insi...si...side…" Both men wavered and slumped, falling to the floor. Cristoff and Cobra propping them against the wall to either side of the door. Freed narrowed his eyes. "Don't give a shit if that upsets him, we're your fucking guards Freed, this is a job." Cobra said firmly. "Let him see his guards don't mean shit to us, that they won't work."
Freed gave a small nod and Cobra opened the doors, Freed strode in, Cristoff right with him, Cobra flanking him on the other side letting the doors close behind them as the older man behind the massive dark stained desk looked up his eyes instantly narrowing and face contorting in distaste and irritation.
"I summoned only you Francis, I am not amused by this defiance." He said curtly.
"Necessary father, I have been summoned to Pelerno Bosco by Ambassador Arman Pradesh due to arrive by the day after Valentine's day, he personally assigned a guard detail to me to assure I arrived on time. We were planning everything when you called, you of course are free to contact the Boscan Ambassador to request changes to the schedule. Otherwise, I won't be spending two seconds without a guard at my side while I'm here." Freed replied in a lifeless, dull tone that made Cristoffs teeth grind.
Lord Justines eyes widened at the mention of Arman. "Why would Arman Pradesh give a damn about you?" He snapped, eyes moving over Cristoff, there was no mistaking what he wore, the seals and symbols adorning that uniform were famously attached to the Boscan Royal guard itself.
"You would have to speak with him about that father. Now, I am here as demanded at the time demanded, may I ask why I was forced to come here?" He asked calmly.
Lord Justines eyes got nastier "Watch your wording Francis, you will show me the proper respect or guards or not, there will be consequences paid to remind you to behave. Lord Tudos, his daughter Amalla. You are well aware of the contract I have been negotiating with them to secure a respectable marriage for you befitting your position as heir to this house." He said.
"It was all over every news source Amalla was to wed Duke Everlue father, I had thought that contract fell through." He replied.
Lord Justine smiled slyly and waved a hand "Everlue has not been handling his trade business into Enca well and we took their rights, he's been fumbling around squandering the Heartfilia take over he did when Judes little daughter ran off and joined that ridiculous guild of yours. Amalla never wanted him anyway, not any more than Judes daughter did but she wisely remained at home. Now Lord Tudos and I have reached a full agreement." He said smugly. His eyes narrowed then and he frowned, glaring.
"What is on your neck?" He demanded, leaning over to try and look. Freed maintained his bland expression, reaching up and pulling his hair out of the way and turning so his father could see Cristoffs mark on his neck. "This?" He asked.
"Yes THAT?! What the hell is it? You can't have that! Francis Freed Justine! It's bad enough you have that ridiculous mark on the back of your hand maring your body but that...that is inexcusable...I'll have a doctor out immediately to remove it...you can't get married to a Tudos with that on you!" He cried and Cristoff growled low at Freeds side, Freed felt his mates rage rise as his father insulted the mark.
"It's a mating mark." Freed said in the same icy calm voice he hadn't strayed from. "I was claimed as the mate of a Dragon Slayer, which I know means nothing to you father, but it's impossible to remove or cover up. Illegal to try in all but two countries including Fiore so I'll be wearing a higher Cravat to dinner." Freed said calmly.
"I don't give a damn about legality, and what do you mean Mate? Gods it's not more of your depravity is it? I won't have it Francis, you WILL marry a woman and produce heirs for this house! It's that friend of yours isn't it? The one with the hideous scar on his face? The Dreyar boy? You were making eyes at him on the lacrima cast of those games you were at, I saw you, is he here? He had the nerve to threaten me once, years ago, If you've brought your sick twisted depravity into this house I swear I'll make that hulking beast pay for it right along with you!" Lord Justone snarled.
"Laxus is not who placed this mark father, though he is with me, with his fiance who you so tactfully mentioned earlier, Lucy Heartfilia, they have been summoned to Bosco as well by Ambassador Pradesh and rather than disrupt our plans and have your sudden demands offend the Ambassador they are indeed with me so we can leave from here directly upon completion of this dinner party you have insisted I attend." Freed said.
"You have to attend your engagement party Francis, you will present yourself well, cover up that thing on your neck and be gracious to your soon to be in-laws!" Lord Justine snapped.
"That is the entire purpose of this then, to complete a deal you made to force me to marry against my will?" Freed asked blandly, no hint of surprise or emotion at all in his tone.
"Francis Freed Justine...you are my first born son, my to my endless disappointment, you will obey me, you will do what I ask of you without resistance or snide disrespectful comment or you will.." as he spoke Lord Justine had stood and come around his desk and stood in front of his son "...pay the price!" And he swung, intending to slap his son across the face but a black and gold gloved hand caught his wrist in a grasp so tight the Lords breath seized in his throat.
"You will not harm him...not ever again Lord Justine...so help me Gods, never again." Cristoff snarled out in a low deadly tone and Lord Justine met the Dragon Slayers eyes that he could have sworn were dark before but now were a radiant molten silver and while he was no mage himself, he knew the feel of someone with power.
"How dare you…" He tried to wrench his hand free but succeeded only in making himself stagger, Cristoffs hand not budging an inch as it held his arm suspended. "Guards!" He cried and the doors on both sides of the study flew open, Cobra almost grinned, finally some action. He stepped to the left while Cristoff only turned his head to the right and said "sleep" and the three goons rushing toward him collapsed. Cobras only took a few moments longer for him to dispatch and leave in a heap.
"Let me go! Who do you think you are!? I am a lord!" Lord Justine snarled and Cristoff jerked him from in front of Freed so he stood before him "I am a knight of the Immaculate Light, first line guard Captain to the Royal family of Bosco, I too hold the title of "Lord" in my native country Lord Justine and where I come from, men hold themselves with dignity and do not fly off into childish rages at their children in front of others. You disgrace yourself, sir. Now, this meeting has been less than productive. We will retire so you can regain your composure and you would do well to remember, your son is under the protection of the Pradesh family, one move toward him intending any form of harm will be seen as a direct attack on the Ambassador and acted on accordingly." Cristoff snapped in an icy tone.
Lord Justine blanched and Cristoff released him, letting him stagger back to sit on his desk and rub his bruised wrist.
"Mr. Justine?" Cobra was pressing his lips together hard to avoid smirking as he nodded toward the door looking at Freed pointedly.
"I'll see you at dinner father." Freed said turning on his heel and leaving the room with Cristoff and Cobra flanking him leaving Freed father looking around at his unconscious guards in shock.
"He's going to retaliate, you shouldn't have held his wrist like that." Freed said when they reached his chambers. Pacing. Vander slid out of the shadows and plopped down on the lounge beside Cobra.
"He's lucky I didn't break his arm. I won't let him strike you, I won't let him lay a fucking finger on you." Cristoff growled, completely unapologetic.
"You insulted him, taunted him." Freed accused and Cristoff narrowed his eyes, he was getting muddied feelings through their bond as if Freed were trying to hide from him again and he didn't like it. "I pointed out that he had made a disgrace of himself because he DID Freed. No decent man treats his children like that, and besides, the conversation was falling apart anyway. Better he direct his anger at me." He said.
"I don't want him directing anything at you! You refuse to believe how terrible he can be, Cristoff...you're...everything to me...I won't have him after you, I can live with him hating me, I've spent my whole life under his hatred I'm used to it." He said a little louder than he meant to.
"Than I'll adjust to the same, you walk through fire I walk it with you, that's how this works." Cristoff said, catching Freeds arm and turning him to face him. Freed met his eyes and the need to jump into those arms was almost overwhelming but he kept it in check, eyes glancing to the ceiling, darting around the room and finding what he'd known would be there, cursing inwardly, he knew better, had already said far more than he should have in this house full of eyes and ears.
"Disabled, did it when we walked in." Vander said off handedly, cleaning his nails with a long dagger but noticing Freed looking at the spy lacrimas on the ceiling.
Freeds eyes widened and Vander looked up incredulous "What? Oh come ON, I'm a fucking Bloodhunter Freed, you think these overpriced pieces of shit escape my notice? please, all 18 in this room and 24 in your bedroom are disabled, as are the 6 in the bathroom, these chambers are clean and secure and I'll get everyone elses, your lovely Daddy there can't see or hear shit we say or do in your chambers." He waved a hand to emphasize his words and Freed blinked at him, turning then and jumping into Cristoffs arms. Cristoff released the breath he'd been half holding, crushing his mate into his embrace, feeling the rush of relief both from Freed and himself at the badly needed contact.
"Fuckin sucks, you two are so freshly mated, your Dad couldn't have picked a worse time to pull this crap. and? I fucking TOLD you we'd make sure Cristoff could stay with you." Cobra said smugly and Freed rolled his eyes "In this case, I'll gladly accept that." He said.
Their comfort was short lived, Cobra and Cristoff both stiffening, Cristoff stepping quickly from Freed and Vander, taking the hint, vanished.
A moment later there was a harsh rap on the door and Freed went and opened it, facing two unpleasant looking large men in the standard dark suits his father kept his guards in.
"We're here to fix some broken security equipment." One said trying to step into Freeds space to force him out of the way but Freed refused to move, shoving the man back.
"No, I disabled it myself, I have my own security and will not be subjected to my fathers. Now...LEAVE." He snapped and Cristoff smiled faintly, loving that authoritative tone, more than a little turned on seeing his mate,who had been a wreck coming here, standing up tall.
"Sorry Master Freed, your father won't accept that." The man tried again and this time jerked back when the gleaming end of a broadsword came toward his chest from behind Freed. Cristoff glared at the man.
"You've been given an order that overrides Lord Justines in this case, accept it or we'll be having a problem. Mr. Justine has his own security, end of story." Cristoff said firmly and the man backed up, glaring at them.
"Yeah, we'll see about that." The first man said and they turned to leave.