Warning: AU/pseudo-historical romance, Ran/Ken.
Author's Note Before: Hey! I forgot there were a lot of people having exams, papers, and traveling! Good luck to all of you! I hope everything went well, or if it didn't I'm sure things will get better! And I hope everyone who had to travel made good time and had good trips! Not as much description in this chapter as the last one. Although there is some. Its not of places, but of how they spend their time. I was trying to get through some plot time here, but there are some sweet scenes. I hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss, but I can dream can't I?!
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Eleven
The day following their meeting with the King was a Sunday which meant the entire household attended church. Omi set out Ken's dullest, most severe outfit which gave him a feeling of foreboding. They traveled in two carriages to the large stone structure near the center of Town. The Grand Duke and Duchess with their three daughters in one, and Yohji, Asuka, Ken, Ran, and Omi in the other. Asuka was quite pleased to be riding with her Pa-pa. She sat proudly between the Prince and Ken looking for all the world a princess.
Ken glanced at Ran a few times, but the stoic man was watching the road over the side of the carriage. He was wearing one of his charcoal suits which made his eyes appear darker than usual. Ken couldn't help but be fascinated by the changes in those eyes.
They arrived at the church and were ushered to their pews. The Grand Duke and Duchess patronized the church and so had pews with their names on them reserved for their family. The pews were tall, straight and very uncomfortable. Ken suspected that was on purpose.
When the vicar in his long robes mounted the high podium to look down on the gathered congregation Ken remembered attending church as a child. He remembered he didn't much like it.
The pews had been equally uncomfortable and he'd had to sit still for a terribly long time. The man talking didn't make any sense to him, and his voice had been monotonous. Ken had squirmed in his seat longing to be away, to be outside. Someone had spoken to him.
Ken came back to himself with a jolt as the vicar thumped his Bible loudly. It had been his mother who'd spoken. She'd been sitting next to him. He'd almost remembered her.
Ken ignored the vicar and the rest of the service. He replayed the memory over and over again. Struggling each time to take it further, but failing. His mind refused to move, and he couldn't force it. He couldn't remember her, but he did manage to give himself a pounding headache. He should've known better, he berated himself. This was hardly the first time.
Finally the service was over. Ken, almost blind with pain and feeling ill, stumbled out of the church behind his Aunt and Uncle, and into the bright light of day. He almost vomited. He bowed to the vicar and tried to smile, but he couldn't follow a word the man said to him.
Suddenly someone had him by the arm and was steering him away from the crowds of people and into a quiet corner of the yard screened by bushes. Hands on his face forced his head up and tried to pry his eyes open.
"Ken, look at me," Ran's voice said from directly in front of him. "What's wrong with you?"
Ken pushed Ran's hands away and buried his face in his own hands, shielding his eyes from the light.
"Headache," he said.
Ran looked in concern at the young man standing before him.
"What did he say?" Yohji asked from over Ran's left shoulder.
"He said he has a headache," answered Ran. He reached out and gripped Ken's shoulders to get his attention. "Is it bad?"
Ken nodded. They'd noticed how pale he'd become in the church, and once outside he'd seemed about to collapse.
"Do you get them often?" Ran asked softly.
"No."
"What do you do for them?"
"Dark room and cold cloths," Ken said then snapped his mouth shut. He was afraid he would be ill if he had to keep speaking.
"I'll summon the carriage," Omi said and moved off.
Ran looked at Yohji who's face mirrored his concern.
"I'll go explain to father and Collette," he said. "They'll understand."
As the Prince moved away Ran turned back to Ken who was starting to sway a bit. He wanted nothing more than to wrap Ken in his arms and sooth away the pain. But he couldn't do it. It would be tantamount to a confession. Ken may not mind that Ran had been in love with one man, but he might mind very much to find that Ran was attracted to him. And there was the matter of Ken's innocence. No, Ran shook his head, it was better for all concerned that he bury his feelings and try to get past them.
Omi reappeared at his side.
"There's a closed cab waiting. I thought it'd be better since the interior's dark, and I have this," the youth held out a heavy sack. He shrugged, "Its rather a bumpy ride and the cabs have a tendency to sway."
"Omi, how would we survive without you?" Ran asked. The young man never failed to think of everything.
They each took one of Ken's arms and steered him into the waiting cab. There was just enough room inside for the three of them. Once they were settled Omi signaled the driver and they were away. They hadn't gone a block when the bag was put to use. Although embarrassed, Ken did feel a little better afterwards. He tried to apologize but they wouldn't let him.
Before too long they were home and Omi got Ken settled into bed with the curtains drawn, cold cloths on his head, and the chamber pot at the ready just in case. Ken spent the rest of the day in bed trying to sleep. Every so often Omi or another servant came in and changed the cloth for him. By evening he felt better, but was served his dinner in bed. The Grand Duchess didn't want to risk a return of his ill health. Ken was just as glad as he felt embarrassed about getting the headache in the first place.
As he was finishing the soup he'd been brought there was a soft knock on his door and Omi entered when he called out. The short blond approached his bed.
"Well, you look better. How are you feeling?" he asked.
"Much better, thank you. I'm sorry I got sick-"
"Will you stop apologizing?" Omi asked crossing his arms over his chest. "You just scared us that's all, but now you're better. That's all any of us care about. All right?"
Ken nodded abashedly.
"What brought it on?"
"I did. I remembered being in church as a child. I could almost see my mother but not quite, so I kept trying. It happens once in a while."
"Can I ask you something?" Omi asked leaning against the bed. Suddenly he seemed very young.
"Sure," replied Ken.
"Do you harbor anger at your mother?" he asked and Ken blinked in surprise. "I mean, because she left you. Not only that but she left you with Sir Sneller."
Ken thought about it.
"I don't know," he said finally. "Maybe I do. I never thought about it before."
"I just wondered if maybe that's why you can't remember her, but it was probably the fall," Omi shrugged. "I was mad at my mother when she died."
"How old were you?"
"Almost twelve. The last thing she did was write to Ran and ask him to take me in. She was afraid for me, but wouldn't tell me why."
Omi leaned on the bed and rested his chin in his hands. Ken leaned back against the pillows and regarded the younger man. It seemed they had both suffered losses. He'd had no idea about Omi's mother.
"And so Ran took you in? What about your half-sister? Didn't you say she was still at home?" Ken asked.
"With her mother. Ran took me in immediately, but it was Richard's gentleman that trained me. If it'd been left to Ran I wouldn't have learned anything," Omi smiled and shook his head. "He does hate class distinction. Well, I'd better go report on your condition. Rest well, and we'll see you in the morning."
Before Ken could protest Omi was out the door. Shortly afterward a servant came and removed the soup and the one lit candle. Ken figured he had no choice and settled in to sleep.
Monday he was forced to relax at home. The Grand Duchess feared that the stress of the visit to the King had brought the headache on, and that too much activity too soon would bring it back. Ken didn't want to argue and so spent most of the day practicing writing and being bored.
After dinner Ran challenged him to a chess match, then proceeded to teach him to play. Ken enjoyed Ran's attention, but he lost repeatedly. The game required strategy which he wasn't too good at, but was something at which Ran appeared to excel. Ken preferred direct attacks and finally gave his seat over to Omi and watched as the two of them outwitted each other into a draw.
On Tuesday the Grand Duchess admitted that Ken seemed improved enough to be allowed out. He'd practically bolted.
Yohji, Ran, and Omi showed him the best shops, and gaming rooms. They ate luncheon out, and discovered the traditional Tuesday football game was that afternoon. They took Ken and he fell in love. He watched excitedly as two teams of men vied with each other on a long grassy lawn with nets at either end, over a tanned bladder filled with air. Omi explained the rules and that the point was to get the bladder into the opposing team's goal without using your hands.
Ken cheered and applauded whenever anyone scored, and showed the first genuine enthusiasm they'd seen in days. The game stopped for tea and then resumed. It was followed by a brawl which Omi said happened quite frequently. However, they avoided it and went to dinner.
They had dinner at Ran and Yohji's club. It was a club for gentlemen that they'd joined while still in school. Yohji enjoyed the gambling, and Ran practiced his sword play there with the master the club employed.
Ken relived and related every goal of the football game until Omi stopped him by reminding him that they'd been there. He'd blushed and apologized. Then blushed redder when Ran had chuckled in amusement.
The Prince convinced Ran to show off his skills after dinner, so they gave Ken a tour of the club. It had all sorts of activities from boxing to public baths. Ran showed them to a private room with nothing but a matt on the floor then he disappeared. Yohji explained that he was gone to change. The Prince said that although Ran carried a fencing sword and knew how to use it, the form he preferred was an ancient style called Kendo which used a sword called a katana.
Ran reappeared in a robe with wide loose pants which was tied at the waist with a belt. He brought the sword master with him, he too was wearing a robe and loose pants. The master lectured Ran on his lack of practice and refused to let him use a real sword as a consequence. So they faced each other holding wooden practice swords.
Ken settled in to watch, secretly excited to learn anything about the stoic red-head. Ran and the master bowed to each other and the session began. It was full of fast blows and blocks. As well as loud cries of attack and grunts when the swords connected. Ken found he almost couldn't follow their actions as first one backed the other across the room, and then they reversed. Not unlike Ran's chess game with Omi. He discovered that watching Ran move was exciting in a completely different way than the football game had been. He could feel the quickening of his heart and his face felt flushed.
All too soon the practice was over and the master and Ran were bowing to one another again. Ran left immediately, but the master came over to meet Ken and say hello to the other two. He was very friendly and invited them back again. Ken could barely focus on what the man said, but he tried to pull himself together. When Yohji led them outside to the veranda over the street Ken took several deep breaths, which helped to clear his head.
Ran rejoined them once he was back in his regular clothes. He listened to their impressed comments with a slight smile, but that was all. Shortly they were back at the house and awaiting supper.
The rest of the week was spent in much the same way. Either they went out during the day to show Ken the Town or they went out at night to something fashionable. They introduced him to the Parliament buildings and gave him a brief overview on how the government worked. They toured more pleasure gardens, and attended concerts. During their days at home Ken took advantage of the lawns and tried out some of the moves he'd seen during the football game. He also spent time with Asuka and the Aunties.
On Friday they joined the King in his box at the race track. His horse was set to run again and he was in high spirits. He'd also heard from his son.
"Apparently, they apprehended the letter writer without too much difficulty," said the King as he watched the track, awaiting the start of the race. "A young lad. Not two years your junior, Ken."
"What did he have to say for himself, your Majesty?" Yohji asked.
"My son let it be known he was seeking the Duke of Hidaka in my name in order to deliver an invitation to join me at Court. The young scallywag marched right up and claimed he was the Duke," the King chuckled at this.
Ran cast a significant glance at Ken who frowned.
"It seems he's an orphan, a nephew of Sir Sneller's who was left in his care," the King continued. "Your stepfather agreed to set him up at this prodigious school and pay his fees providing he write to me as you. Claimed he thought you were dead of a fever. With no parents or money to speak of the young man jumped at the chance."
"What about his coming to Court?" Ran asked.
"Seems he's passed all his courses and was fishing for prospects. According to him, Sir Sneller didn't know he'd written me in that vain. He hoped to establish himself here before his uncle were to find out."
"So there wasn't any plot," Ken stated returning Ran's glance.
"Not yet. None that we can find," said the King marking the glance. "But be warned, Lord Ran's concern is not misplaced. Had his nephew successfully installed himself in your place who's to say what mischief your stepfather would've gotten up to."
Ken pouted at his shoes, but was distracted, as was everyone else, by the start of the race. It was a harrowing affair, but the horse held true and it carried the day.
"Ah-ha! You see, Sir? Skill!" cried the King at the Grand Duke.
"I might suggest, your Majesty, that it is the rider that had the skill and the horse all the speed," smirked Yohji's father.
The King roared with laughter.
"Well said, Sir!" The King turned to Ken. "I hope you placed your bet, my lad. I'm sure you've won a pretty penny."
"Umm...a bet? With money? I wish I had, but I don't have any," Ken replied, flustered.
"Excuse me, Sir? No money? Ridiculous," said the King frowning.
Ken shrugged, "I've never had any."
The King blinked in astonishment and turned to Yohji and Ran for explanation.
"What's this?!" he demanded.
"Hargrave wanted time, your Majesty, to review the Duke's estate accounts here in Town. He wanted assurance that there was nothing amiss," the Prince explained.
"Well, I'd say he's had sufficient time now. Meet with him, Sir. The sooner the better. Unheard of, a Duke with no knowledge of how to spend. What say you, Sakajo? Most young Dukes excel at it, eh?"
"Oh, quite, your Majesty," chuckled the Grand Duke.
The King gave Yohji and Ran a stern look, and then called for tea.
Yohji knew he shouldn't be surprised. In fact, if he thought about it logically, surprised was the last thing he should be. Yet he was surprised. Surprised and appalled. Ken knew nothing about money. Nothing at all.
He said he could recall putting coins in a bank, but he had no idea of their value or even what they were called. Of course, in his life as a servant, because he'd been a member of the family, he'd never been paid. But the Prince had expected that someone would have gone over money with him. One of the other servants or Caroline, but that hadn't happened.
So, Yohji paced around complaining while Ken looked apologetic, and Ran and Omi looked annoyed. Finally he'd stopped and suggested that they start at the beginning. Omi and Ran had patiently begun laying out the basics with Ken paying close attention.
The Prince was forced to admit that the young man did seem to pick things up relatively quickly. He retained them as well, when he applied himself. Yohji didn't think he looked very bright, but really he was.
As he watched the new Duke repeat the names of the coins back and say how much each was worth, he reflected on how quickly Ken had learned about football. They'd only attended one game and he'd memorized all the rules Omi'd told him, all the major plays of the day, and he could actually do most of the moves. Yohji'd seen him playing out on the lawn, and he'd been impressed. Of course, it only stood to reason that Ken would be athletic. After eight years as a laborer his body was honed and fit.
The Prince glanced at his other cousin. The change in Ran since they'd met Ken was significant. He couldn't help but assume there was some connection, although there was no evidence in his cousin's behavior. Ken was obviously fond of Ran, however, but then Ken wore all his emotions on his face. Perhaps the proof was Ran's lack of emotion. In every other way he'd emerged from his shell, but he still strove to wear his emotionless mask.
Yohji turned to Ken and appraised him. He had to admit that the young Duke was fairly attractive. His skin was tanned and flawless. He wasn't shaving yet, so he still looked very youthful. With his short hair, large brown eyes, and easy smile he had a sweet charm about him. Yes, certain parties would find him very attractive. But would Ran? When Yohji thought about Richard, Ken seemed as far from Ran's ideal as he could get.
The Prince shook his head. It was all moot. Ran wasn't about to risk his heart again, and Ken had no experience, not to mention seemed the type to fall in love with the first girl who noticed him. He was just bored with watching the money lesson, and needed to find some occupation for his mind.
"Have you ever had the pox?" he asked suddenly, surprising even himself.
Everyone looked up at him.
"Me?" Ken asked. "Cow pox."
"But never small pox?"
Ken shook his head.
"Ever been exposed to it?" the Prince asked.
"It went through the village about four years ago, and my stepsisters had it. Old Shoop and I burned their sheets and clothes. They had to get all new things."
Ran and Omi looked back and forth between the Prince and Ken.
"So you had cow pox before that?"
"Yeah, got it from milking. Mol and I had it. Mrs. Hudson said you either get one or the other."
"May I ask what brought this up?" Ran interrupted, equal parts confused and annoyed.
"I was just noticing Ken's smooth skin."
That raised a few eyebrows. Ran and Omi's.
"I meant his lack of scars," Yohji clarified, but blushed in spite of himself.
Ran cleared his throat and redirected Ken's attention back to the money lesson. Omi gave Yohji a funny look. The Prince fidgeted then sat.
"So, when do we go see Hargrave?" Ken asked completed distracted after Yohji's interruption.
"Tomorrow," answered Ran sighing.
"So, if I don't have any money right now then how'd I get all these new clothes and things?"
"We paid for them," Yohji said.
"So, now I owe you. H-how much? Will I be able to pay you back?" Ken didn't like the idea of owing someone when money scared him a little.
"You don't have to pay us back," Ran said.
"That's right. We're rich, and besides that we owed it to you," the Prince agreed. "Someone should've thought to check on you. As it was we discovered you by accident."
"Or by Caroline's design, rather," stated Ran.
"Yes, thank God for Caroline. You wouldn't be here now if not for her."
They hadn't meant it to, but Ken's mood sank at the mention of his beloved stepsister. There still hadn't been a letter. Ran noticed instantly.
"Let's go out and get her something," he suggested.
"The best way to learn money is to spend some," Omi agreed.
"But I don't have any. I can't keep using your's. Its not right."
"Nonsense," Yohji said, but caught Omi and Ran scowling at him. He rolled his eyes and sighed. "Look, we'll keep a running total starting today. We'll track how much you barrow and who you barrow it from. Will that do?"
"Correction," Ran said. "You will keep track. It'll be good practice."
He handed Ken some paper and a charcoal pencil. That seemed an agreeable solution, so they set off shopping. Ken dutifully kept track of who loaned him money and how much he spent. Omi had been right and soon he had a good understanding of how much money was in his purse and what he could buy with it.
Ken also discovered he liked buying gifts for people. After purchasing a new fan for Caroline he bought new hats for Mrs. Hudson, Molly, and Rosie. He found warm winter gloves for Old Shoop, and bought a tiny china tea set for Asuka and the Aunties. Yohji had to almost physically stop him from buying something for each of them. Instead Ran suggested he buy a writing box with paper, ink, and quills for himself so he'd be ready when his letter from Caroline arrived.
Ken retired that night with a sense of anticipation. On the morrow he would finally be learning something about the estate. He hoped that what he would learn would prove useful in some way. He'd been in Town a little over a week and already he was looking forward to leaving for home.
Pulling out his new writing box he decided to write to Mrs. Hudson to inquire how things were at home. He would send the letter in the morning, and thus learn how much it cost to mail a letter.
After jotting a quick note he returned to the settee, where he'd been sleeping, feeling a bit better. It didn't take him too long to fall asleep.
Hargrave's office was austere. Ken sat before the aged solicitor waiting anxiously to learn about his estate's financial situation. The man's face was impossible to read, and Ken was worried. Yohji and Ran sat one on each side of him, for support, and Omi stood behind his chair. Ken had the feeling he'd need them to explain things to him. Hargrave opened a ledger before him on his desk and frowned at it for a moment before looking up and meeting Ken's eyes.
"The general state of your affairs is good," he stated in his breathy voice. "Despite my dislike for your stepfather, I have to admit that he handled the managing of the estate extremely well."
Ken felt himself flood with relief and relaxed the death grip he hadn't realized he'd had on the arms of his chair.
"That having been said I think the man should be jailed at once," Hargrave said in a hard serious tone.
Ken blinked in surprise and felt himself tense up again.
"What did he do?" Ran asked darkly.
"He used the money from the estate's investments to purchase land, used workers from the estate to improve it, and sold it at a profit. He reinvested more than half the money back into the estate, but he kept a tidy sum which he invested for himself. In short, he used your money to make himself a fortune," Hargrave informed Ken.
"All while using you as free labor," Yohji growled. "You were too lenient with him."
Ken shook his head.
"But...he reinvested the money in the estate?" Ken asked. "You mean he put it back?"
"Yes," answered Hargrave.
"And so the estate also gained?" asked Ken.
"Yes, it also profited," Hargrave answered. "However, that is not the point."
"I don't care if he got rich as long as he didn't sink me," said Ken. "That means he should be able to find a good home, and Caroline will be happy. And since that's all the money he'll ever get from me then I don't mind."
Yohji threw his hands up in the air in a gesture of frustration, but didn't say anything. Ran scowled at his shoes. Hargrave scowled at Ken, but Ken didn't care.
"Now," he said, "teach me about these investments."
It was a lot to take in in one afternoon. Too much in fact. They visited Hargrave's office every morning of the following week as Ken learned where his money was, how it was working or sitting, and how much he owed to the King in taxes and when he owed it. He learned how the rents were to be collected for the taxes, and how to pay or invest them. He struggled to learn it all and retain it. Some things though seemed to be beyond him and that's where Ran stepped in.
While Ken determinedly tried to remember things, Ran seemed to grasp them immediately and remember them without effort. By the following Saturday, between the two of them, Hargrave felt the estate would continue in prosperity. He advised that Ran should assist Ken until such time as Ken no longer needed assistance.
Ken was secretly quite pleased with this arrangement on one hand, but concerned about it on the other. Ran was practically guaranteed to be at the estate for an extended period this way. But it also meant that Ken was still relying on someone to help him run his estate, and above all else he wanted independence. Also, he felt a twinge that Ran would be with him because he had to be and not because he wanted to be. Ken was beginning to realize that the sort of attention he wanted from the stoic red-head was the sort that was given freely.
The afternoons of his second week he spent at his Aunt and Uncle's house going over what he'd learned in the morning, and relaxing outside by practicing various football moves on Omi. Yohji caught Ran watching Ken from various locations and his imagination was refueled, much to Ran's chagrin. The Prince took to teasing his cousin and Ran took to sulking.
They spent their evenings at various pursuits or playing cards at home. Ken gradually adjusted to the differences in hours and continued trying to enjoy the concerts, operas, and theater that he was subjected to.
As his second week came to an end he received his first letter. Mrs. Hudson wrote back saying that all was fine on the estate. She hoped that he was enjoying his stay in Town, and couldn't wait to see him home safe. Ken felt the pang of home sickness, but not wanting to upset anyone's plans didn't say anything. Rather he wrote back to Mrs. Hudson describing some of his new interests, the sights he'd seen, and advising her to be on the look out for a package. The things he'd learned about his stepfather he kept to himself knowing they would only cause worry and consternation at home.
The Lineage: Firstly, sorry that I confused everyone! Oops! Okay, Yohji is the Grand Duke's son and the King's nephew. His mother, Ken's mother, and the Queen were sisters. Ran's mother is Collette's cousin (Yohji's stepmother). As to why Ken outranks Yohji its because a Duke trumps a Prince, but a Grand Duke trumps a Duke. In the aristocracy (and anyone please feel free to correct me if I'm wrong here) titles are handed out as favors for those who are loyal, and those who are relatives of the throne. Duchies (or Dukedoms) were usually given out amoung the royal family itself, while Earldoms were often given to commoners along with knighting people. So, Yohji's family is royal. That's why he's a Prince. But he won't outrank Ken until he inherits his father's title. Sorry, I used to be a wicked anglophile and royal watcher. I didn't mean to confuse. PLEASE FORGIVE ME!!!!
Author's Note After: The stuff about the cow pox is true. It was discovered part way through the 18th Century that dairy maids didn't contract smallpox, but that instead they got a less dangerous illness from milking cows called cow pox. Not only was the death rate lower, but it didn't leave the victims with the tell tale scars like small pox did, and it was due to the dairy maids' fair and beautiful complexions that this was discovered. I thought that would be nice for our dear KenKen. And his brain injury reared its ugly head, but Ran helped him. Sigh
The football here is, of course, soccer. Its been around since at least the 15th Century, and has almost always been followed by a brawl. I'm not kidding, that's what the books said! And I wanted to have a blending of cultures in this story, so I left Ran his katana.
I hope you liked it! Thank you so much for reading! Only two chapters left! Please R & R!
Akikaze-san: Thank you SO MUCH! I'm so glad you liked chapter 10, and I hope you liked this one too. That's the kind of review that keeps me wanting to write! I forgot the whole romantic discussion was in that chapter. I liked it too. It just seemed to obvious to resist, I had to write it. And I'm glad you liked Asuka and the Aunties at the start. It was really fun to write them. I couldn't help myself. I'm so, so happy that you liked it! Yay! And again, thank you for the wonderful review and thanks for reading!
Marsupial: HA! I love it! I used to love startling my brother, but now he's bigger than I am. Yay! You're still reading! Thanks for the review and for reading. I'm so addicted to reviews now. I'm checking my email all the time! This is addictive, this writing! Glad you made it home okay! Have a great summer!
Vero: Hey! I'm glad you discovered my fic and I'm glad you like it! Its almost over! Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Mondtanz: Wow, you downloaded my chapter to read in the airport?! I'm so honored! Thanks so much! And I hope it was a good distraction for you. I know how airports are. I hope you caught my note above about the lineage stuff. If you're still confused let me know. You weren't alone which means bad, bad me! I should've made sure it was more clear. Thanks for reviewing and reading! Have a great summer!
Misao-The-Weasel: I'm glad you like the happy story line. With the way things are today I can't take too much darkness, although if they're Ran/Ken I read those too! I hope you understand the lineage a little better now? There's a note above in case you skipped it. I know I can be long winded, and confusing. You weren't the only one I confused, so I need to try and fix that somehow...someday. Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Alexandra: Thanks for the email! I'm glad you like the fic. Did you get your email reply? Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Author's Note Before: Hey! I forgot there were a lot of people having exams, papers, and traveling! Good luck to all of you! I hope everything went well, or if it didn't I'm sure things will get better! And I hope everyone who had to travel made good time and had good trips! Not as much description in this chapter as the last one. Although there is some. Its not of places, but of how they spend their time. I was trying to get through some plot time here, but there are some sweet scenes. I hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss, but I can dream can't I?!
Tell Him That it Wasn't Love
Chapter Eleven
The day following their meeting with the King was a Sunday which meant the entire household attended church. Omi set out Ken's dullest, most severe outfit which gave him a feeling of foreboding. They traveled in two carriages to the large stone structure near the center of Town. The Grand Duke and Duchess with their three daughters in one, and Yohji, Asuka, Ken, Ran, and Omi in the other. Asuka was quite pleased to be riding with her Pa-pa. She sat proudly between the Prince and Ken looking for all the world a princess.
Ken glanced at Ran a few times, but the stoic man was watching the road over the side of the carriage. He was wearing one of his charcoal suits which made his eyes appear darker than usual. Ken couldn't help but be fascinated by the changes in those eyes.
They arrived at the church and were ushered to their pews. The Grand Duke and Duchess patronized the church and so had pews with their names on them reserved for their family. The pews were tall, straight and very uncomfortable. Ken suspected that was on purpose.
When the vicar in his long robes mounted the high podium to look down on the gathered congregation Ken remembered attending church as a child. He remembered he didn't much like it.
The pews had been equally uncomfortable and he'd had to sit still for a terribly long time. The man talking didn't make any sense to him, and his voice had been monotonous. Ken had squirmed in his seat longing to be away, to be outside. Someone had spoken to him.
Ken came back to himself with a jolt as the vicar thumped his Bible loudly. It had been his mother who'd spoken. She'd been sitting next to him. He'd almost remembered her.
Ken ignored the vicar and the rest of the service. He replayed the memory over and over again. Struggling each time to take it further, but failing. His mind refused to move, and he couldn't force it. He couldn't remember her, but he did manage to give himself a pounding headache. He should've known better, he berated himself. This was hardly the first time.
Finally the service was over. Ken, almost blind with pain and feeling ill, stumbled out of the church behind his Aunt and Uncle, and into the bright light of day. He almost vomited. He bowed to the vicar and tried to smile, but he couldn't follow a word the man said to him.
Suddenly someone had him by the arm and was steering him away from the crowds of people and into a quiet corner of the yard screened by bushes. Hands on his face forced his head up and tried to pry his eyes open.
"Ken, look at me," Ran's voice said from directly in front of him. "What's wrong with you?"
Ken pushed Ran's hands away and buried his face in his own hands, shielding his eyes from the light.
"Headache," he said.
Ran looked in concern at the young man standing before him.
"What did he say?" Yohji asked from over Ran's left shoulder.
"He said he has a headache," answered Ran. He reached out and gripped Ken's shoulders to get his attention. "Is it bad?"
Ken nodded. They'd noticed how pale he'd become in the church, and once outside he'd seemed about to collapse.
"Do you get them often?" Ran asked softly.
"No."
"What do you do for them?"
"Dark room and cold cloths," Ken said then snapped his mouth shut. He was afraid he would be ill if he had to keep speaking.
"I'll summon the carriage," Omi said and moved off.
Ran looked at Yohji who's face mirrored his concern.
"I'll go explain to father and Collette," he said. "They'll understand."
As the Prince moved away Ran turned back to Ken who was starting to sway a bit. He wanted nothing more than to wrap Ken in his arms and sooth away the pain. But he couldn't do it. It would be tantamount to a confession. Ken may not mind that Ran had been in love with one man, but he might mind very much to find that Ran was attracted to him. And there was the matter of Ken's innocence. No, Ran shook his head, it was better for all concerned that he bury his feelings and try to get past them.
Omi reappeared at his side.
"There's a closed cab waiting. I thought it'd be better since the interior's dark, and I have this," the youth held out a heavy sack. He shrugged, "Its rather a bumpy ride and the cabs have a tendency to sway."
"Omi, how would we survive without you?" Ran asked. The young man never failed to think of everything.
They each took one of Ken's arms and steered him into the waiting cab. There was just enough room inside for the three of them. Once they were settled Omi signaled the driver and they were away. They hadn't gone a block when the bag was put to use. Although embarrassed, Ken did feel a little better afterwards. He tried to apologize but they wouldn't let him.
Before too long they were home and Omi got Ken settled into bed with the curtains drawn, cold cloths on his head, and the chamber pot at the ready just in case. Ken spent the rest of the day in bed trying to sleep. Every so often Omi or another servant came in and changed the cloth for him. By evening he felt better, but was served his dinner in bed. The Grand Duchess didn't want to risk a return of his ill health. Ken was just as glad as he felt embarrassed about getting the headache in the first place.
As he was finishing the soup he'd been brought there was a soft knock on his door and Omi entered when he called out. The short blond approached his bed.
"Well, you look better. How are you feeling?" he asked.
"Much better, thank you. I'm sorry I got sick-"
"Will you stop apologizing?" Omi asked crossing his arms over his chest. "You just scared us that's all, but now you're better. That's all any of us care about. All right?"
Ken nodded abashedly.
"What brought it on?"
"I did. I remembered being in church as a child. I could almost see my mother but not quite, so I kept trying. It happens once in a while."
"Can I ask you something?" Omi asked leaning against the bed. Suddenly he seemed very young.
"Sure," replied Ken.
"Do you harbor anger at your mother?" he asked and Ken blinked in surprise. "I mean, because she left you. Not only that but she left you with Sir Sneller."
Ken thought about it.
"I don't know," he said finally. "Maybe I do. I never thought about it before."
"I just wondered if maybe that's why you can't remember her, but it was probably the fall," Omi shrugged. "I was mad at my mother when she died."
"How old were you?"
"Almost twelve. The last thing she did was write to Ran and ask him to take me in. She was afraid for me, but wouldn't tell me why."
Omi leaned on the bed and rested his chin in his hands. Ken leaned back against the pillows and regarded the younger man. It seemed they had both suffered losses. He'd had no idea about Omi's mother.
"And so Ran took you in? What about your half-sister? Didn't you say she was still at home?" Ken asked.
"With her mother. Ran took me in immediately, but it was Richard's gentleman that trained me. If it'd been left to Ran I wouldn't have learned anything," Omi smiled and shook his head. "He does hate class distinction. Well, I'd better go report on your condition. Rest well, and we'll see you in the morning."
Before Ken could protest Omi was out the door. Shortly afterward a servant came and removed the soup and the one lit candle. Ken figured he had no choice and settled in to sleep.
Monday he was forced to relax at home. The Grand Duchess feared that the stress of the visit to the King had brought the headache on, and that too much activity too soon would bring it back. Ken didn't want to argue and so spent most of the day practicing writing and being bored.
After dinner Ran challenged him to a chess match, then proceeded to teach him to play. Ken enjoyed Ran's attention, but he lost repeatedly. The game required strategy which he wasn't too good at, but was something at which Ran appeared to excel. Ken preferred direct attacks and finally gave his seat over to Omi and watched as the two of them outwitted each other into a draw.
On Tuesday the Grand Duchess admitted that Ken seemed improved enough to be allowed out. He'd practically bolted.
Yohji, Ran, and Omi showed him the best shops, and gaming rooms. They ate luncheon out, and discovered the traditional Tuesday football game was that afternoon. They took Ken and he fell in love. He watched excitedly as two teams of men vied with each other on a long grassy lawn with nets at either end, over a tanned bladder filled with air. Omi explained the rules and that the point was to get the bladder into the opposing team's goal without using your hands.
Ken cheered and applauded whenever anyone scored, and showed the first genuine enthusiasm they'd seen in days. The game stopped for tea and then resumed. It was followed by a brawl which Omi said happened quite frequently. However, they avoided it and went to dinner.
They had dinner at Ran and Yohji's club. It was a club for gentlemen that they'd joined while still in school. Yohji enjoyed the gambling, and Ran practiced his sword play there with the master the club employed.
Ken relived and related every goal of the football game until Omi stopped him by reminding him that they'd been there. He'd blushed and apologized. Then blushed redder when Ran had chuckled in amusement.
The Prince convinced Ran to show off his skills after dinner, so they gave Ken a tour of the club. It had all sorts of activities from boxing to public baths. Ran showed them to a private room with nothing but a matt on the floor then he disappeared. Yohji explained that he was gone to change. The Prince said that although Ran carried a fencing sword and knew how to use it, the form he preferred was an ancient style called Kendo which used a sword called a katana.
Ran reappeared in a robe with wide loose pants which was tied at the waist with a belt. He brought the sword master with him, he too was wearing a robe and loose pants. The master lectured Ran on his lack of practice and refused to let him use a real sword as a consequence. So they faced each other holding wooden practice swords.
Ken settled in to watch, secretly excited to learn anything about the stoic red-head. Ran and the master bowed to each other and the session began. It was full of fast blows and blocks. As well as loud cries of attack and grunts when the swords connected. Ken found he almost couldn't follow their actions as first one backed the other across the room, and then they reversed. Not unlike Ran's chess game with Omi. He discovered that watching Ran move was exciting in a completely different way than the football game had been. He could feel the quickening of his heart and his face felt flushed.
All too soon the practice was over and the master and Ran were bowing to one another again. Ran left immediately, but the master came over to meet Ken and say hello to the other two. He was very friendly and invited them back again. Ken could barely focus on what the man said, but he tried to pull himself together. When Yohji led them outside to the veranda over the street Ken took several deep breaths, which helped to clear his head.
Ran rejoined them once he was back in his regular clothes. He listened to their impressed comments with a slight smile, but that was all. Shortly they were back at the house and awaiting supper.
The rest of the week was spent in much the same way. Either they went out during the day to show Ken the Town or they went out at night to something fashionable. They introduced him to the Parliament buildings and gave him a brief overview on how the government worked. They toured more pleasure gardens, and attended concerts. During their days at home Ken took advantage of the lawns and tried out some of the moves he'd seen during the football game. He also spent time with Asuka and the Aunties.
On Friday they joined the King in his box at the race track. His horse was set to run again and he was in high spirits. He'd also heard from his son.
"Apparently, they apprehended the letter writer without too much difficulty," said the King as he watched the track, awaiting the start of the race. "A young lad. Not two years your junior, Ken."
"What did he have to say for himself, your Majesty?" Yohji asked.
"My son let it be known he was seeking the Duke of Hidaka in my name in order to deliver an invitation to join me at Court. The young scallywag marched right up and claimed he was the Duke," the King chuckled at this.
Ran cast a significant glance at Ken who frowned.
"It seems he's an orphan, a nephew of Sir Sneller's who was left in his care," the King continued. "Your stepfather agreed to set him up at this prodigious school and pay his fees providing he write to me as you. Claimed he thought you were dead of a fever. With no parents or money to speak of the young man jumped at the chance."
"What about his coming to Court?" Ran asked.
"Seems he's passed all his courses and was fishing for prospects. According to him, Sir Sneller didn't know he'd written me in that vain. He hoped to establish himself here before his uncle were to find out."
"So there wasn't any plot," Ken stated returning Ran's glance.
"Not yet. None that we can find," said the King marking the glance. "But be warned, Lord Ran's concern is not misplaced. Had his nephew successfully installed himself in your place who's to say what mischief your stepfather would've gotten up to."
Ken pouted at his shoes, but was distracted, as was everyone else, by the start of the race. It was a harrowing affair, but the horse held true and it carried the day.
"Ah-ha! You see, Sir? Skill!" cried the King at the Grand Duke.
"I might suggest, your Majesty, that it is the rider that had the skill and the horse all the speed," smirked Yohji's father.
The King roared with laughter.
"Well said, Sir!" The King turned to Ken. "I hope you placed your bet, my lad. I'm sure you've won a pretty penny."
"Umm...a bet? With money? I wish I had, but I don't have any," Ken replied, flustered.
"Excuse me, Sir? No money? Ridiculous," said the King frowning.
Ken shrugged, "I've never had any."
The King blinked in astonishment and turned to Yohji and Ran for explanation.
"What's this?!" he demanded.
"Hargrave wanted time, your Majesty, to review the Duke's estate accounts here in Town. He wanted assurance that there was nothing amiss," the Prince explained.
"Well, I'd say he's had sufficient time now. Meet with him, Sir. The sooner the better. Unheard of, a Duke with no knowledge of how to spend. What say you, Sakajo? Most young Dukes excel at it, eh?"
"Oh, quite, your Majesty," chuckled the Grand Duke.
The King gave Yohji and Ran a stern look, and then called for tea.
Yohji knew he shouldn't be surprised. In fact, if he thought about it logically, surprised was the last thing he should be. Yet he was surprised. Surprised and appalled. Ken knew nothing about money. Nothing at all.
He said he could recall putting coins in a bank, but he had no idea of their value or even what they were called. Of course, in his life as a servant, because he'd been a member of the family, he'd never been paid. But the Prince had expected that someone would have gone over money with him. One of the other servants or Caroline, but that hadn't happened.
So, Yohji paced around complaining while Ken looked apologetic, and Ran and Omi looked annoyed. Finally he'd stopped and suggested that they start at the beginning. Omi and Ran had patiently begun laying out the basics with Ken paying close attention.
The Prince was forced to admit that the young man did seem to pick things up relatively quickly. He retained them as well, when he applied himself. Yohji didn't think he looked very bright, but really he was.
As he watched the new Duke repeat the names of the coins back and say how much each was worth, he reflected on how quickly Ken had learned about football. They'd only attended one game and he'd memorized all the rules Omi'd told him, all the major plays of the day, and he could actually do most of the moves. Yohji'd seen him playing out on the lawn, and he'd been impressed. Of course, it only stood to reason that Ken would be athletic. After eight years as a laborer his body was honed and fit.
The Prince glanced at his other cousin. The change in Ran since they'd met Ken was significant. He couldn't help but assume there was some connection, although there was no evidence in his cousin's behavior. Ken was obviously fond of Ran, however, but then Ken wore all his emotions on his face. Perhaps the proof was Ran's lack of emotion. In every other way he'd emerged from his shell, but he still strove to wear his emotionless mask.
Yohji turned to Ken and appraised him. He had to admit that the young Duke was fairly attractive. His skin was tanned and flawless. He wasn't shaving yet, so he still looked very youthful. With his short hair, large brown eyes, and easy smile he had a sweet charm about him. Yes, certain parties would find him very attractive. But would Ran? When Yohji thought about Richard, Ken seemed as far from Ran's ideal as he could get.
The Prince shook his head. It was all moot. Ran wasn't about to risk his heart again, and Ken had no experience, not to mention seemed the type to fall in love with the first girl who noticed him. He was just bored with watching the money lesson, and needed to find some occupation for his mind.
"Have you ever had the pox?" he asked suddenly, surprising even himself.
Everyone looked up at him.
"Me?" Ken asked. "Cow pox."
"But never small pox?"
Ken shook his head.
"Ever been exposed to it?" the Prince asked.
"It went through the village about four years ago, and my stepsisters had it. Old Shoop and I burned their sheets and clothes. They had to get all new things."
Ran and Omi looked back and forth between the Prince and Ken.
"So you had cow pox before that?"
"Yeah, got it from milking. Mol and I had it. Mrs. Hudson said you either get one or the other."
"May I ask what brought this up?" Ran interrupted, equal parts confused and annoyed.
"I was just noticing Ken's smooth skin."
That raised a few eyebrows. Ran and Omi's.
"I meant his lack of scars," Yohji clarified, but blushed in spite of himself.
Ran cleared his throat and redirected Ken's attention back to the money lesson. Omi gave Yohji a funny look. The Prince fidgeted then sat.
"So, when do we go see Hargrave?" Ken asked completed distracted after Yohji's interruption.
"Tomorrow," answered Ran sighing.
"So, if I don't have any money right now then how'd I get all these new clothes and things?"
"We paid for them," Yohji said.
"So, now I owe you. H-how much? Will I be able to pay you back?" Ken didn't like the idea of owing someone when money scared him a little.
"You don't have to pay us back," Ran said.
"That's right. We're rich, and besides that we owed it to you," the Prince agreed. "Someone should've thought to check on you. As it was we discovered you by accident."
"Or by Caroline's design, rather," stated Ran.
"Yes, thank God for Caroline. You wouldn't be here now if not for her."
They hadn't meant it to, but Ken's mood sank at the mention of his beloved stepsister. There still hadn't been a letter. Ran noticed instantly.
"Let's go out and get her something," he suggested.
"The best way to learn money is to spend some," Omi agreed.
"But I don't have any. I can't keep using your's. Its not right."
"Nonsense," Yohji said, but caught Omi and Ran scowling at him. He rolled his eyes and sighed. "Look, we'll keep a running total starting today. We'll track how much you barrow and who you barrow it from. Will that do?"
"Correction," Ran said. "You will keep track. It'll be good practice."
He handed Ken some paper and a charcoal pencil. That seemed an agreeable solution, so they set off shopping. Ken dutifully kept track of who loaned him money and how much he spent. Omi had been right and soon he had a good understanding of how much money was in his purse and what he could buy with it.
Ken also discovered he liked buying gifts for people. After purchasing a new fan for Caroline he bought new hats for Mrs. Hudson, Molly, and Rosie. He found warm winter gloves for Old Shoop, and bought a tiny china tea set for Asuka and the Aunties. Yohji had to almost physically stop him from buying something for each of them. Instead Ran suggested he buy a writing box with paper, ink, and quills for himself so he'd be ready when his letter from Caroline arrived.
Ken retired that night with a sense of anticipation. On the morrow he would finally be learning something about the estate. He hoped that what he would learn would prove useful in some way. He'd been in Town a little over a week and already he was looking forward to leaving for home.
Pulling out his new writing box he decided to write to Mrs. Hudson to inquire how things were at home. He would send the letter in the morning, and thus learn how much it cost to mail a letter.
After jotting a quick note he returned to the settee, where he'd been sleeping, feeling a bit better. It didn't take him too long to fall asleep.
Hargrave's office was austere. Ken sat before the aged solicitor waiting anxiously to learn about his estate's financial situation. The man's face was impossible to read, and Ken was worried. Yohji and Ran sat one on each side of him, for support, and Omi stood behind his chair. Ken had the feeling he'd need them to explain things to him. Hargrave opened a ledger before him on his desk and frowned at it for a moment before looking up and meeting Ken's eyes.
"The general state of your affairs is good," he stated in his breathy voice. "Despite my dislike for your stepfather, I have to admit that he handled the managing of the estate extremely well."
Ken felt himself flood with relief and relaxed the death grip he hadn't realized he'd had on the arms of his chair.
"That having been said I think the man should be jailed at once," Hargrave said in a hard serious tone.
Ken blinked in surprise and felt himself tense up again.
"What did he do?" Ran asked darkly.
"He used the money from the estate's investments to purchase land, used workers from the estate to improve it, and sold it at a profit. He reinvested more than half the money back into the estate, but he kept a tidy sum which he invested for himself. In short, he used your money to make himself a fortune," Hargrave informed Ken.
"All while using you as free labor," Yohji growled. "You were too lenient with him."
Ken shook his head.
"But...he reinvested the money in the estate?" Ken asked. "You mean he put it back?"
"Yes," answered Hargrave.
"And so the estate also gained?" asked Ken.
"Yes, it also profited," Hargrave answered. "However, that is not the point."
"I don't care if he got rich as long as he didn't sink me," said Ken. "That means he should be able to find a good home, and Caroline will be happy. And since that's all the money he'll ever get from me then I don't mind."
Yohji threw his hands up in the air in a gesture of frustration, but didn't say anything. Ran scowled at his shoes. Hargrave scowled at Ken, but Ken didn't care.
"Now," he said, "teach me about these investments."
It was a lot to take in in one afternoon. Too much in fact. They visited Hargrave's office every morning of the following week as Ken learned where his money was, how it was working or sitting, and how much he owed to the King in taxes and when he owed it. He learned how the rents were to be collected for the taxes, and how to pay or invest them. He struggled to learn it all and retain it. Some things though seemed to be beyond him and that's where Ran stepped in.
While Ken determinedly tried to remember things, Ran seemed to grasp them immediately and remember them without effort. By the following Saturday, between the two of them, Hargrave felt the estate would continue in prosperity. He advised that Ran should assist Ken until such time as Ken no longer needed assistance.
Ken was secretly quite pleased with this arrangement on one hand, but concerned about it on the other. Ran was practically guaranteed to be at the estate for an extended period this way. But it also meant that Ken was still relying on someone to help him run his estate, and above all else he wanted independence. Also, he felt a twinge that Ran would be with him because he had to be and not because he wanted to be. Ken was beginning to realize that the sort of attention he wanted from the stoic red-head was the sort that was given freely.
The afternoons of his second week he spent at his Aunt and Uncle's house going over what he'd learned in the morning, and relaxing outside by practicing various football moves on Omi. Yohji caught Ran watching Ken from various locations and his imagination was refueled, much to Ran's chagrin. The Prince took to teasing his cousin and Ran took to sulking.
They spent their evenings at various pursuits or playing cards at home. Ken gradually adjusted to the differences in hours and continued trying to enjoy the concerts, operas, and theater that he was subjected to.
As his second week came to an end he received his first letter. Mrs. Hudson wrote back saying that all was fine on the estate. She hoped that he was enjoying his stay in Town, and couldn't wait to see him home safe. Ken felt the pang of home sickness, but not wanting to upset anyone's plans didn't say anything. Rather he wrote back to Mrs. Hudson describing some of his new interests, the sights he'd seen, and advising her to be on the look out for a package. The things he'd learned about his stepfather he kept to himself knowing they would only cause worry and consternation at home.
The Lineage: Firstly, sorry that I confused everyone! Oops! Okay, Yohji is the Grand Duke's son and the King's nephew. His mother, Ken's mother, and the Queen were sisters. Ran's mother is Collette's cousin (Yohji's stepmother). As to why Ken outranks Yohji its because a Duke trumps a Prince, but a Grand Duke trumps a Duke. In the aristocracy (and anyone please feel free to correct me if I'm wrong here) titles are handed out as favors for those who are loyal, and those who are relatives of the throne. Duchies (or Dukedoms) were usually given out amoung the royal family itself, while Earldoms were often given to commoners along with knighting people. So, Yohji's family is royal. That's why he's a Prince. But he won't outrank Ken until he inherits his father's title. Sorry, I used to be a wicked anglophile and royal watcher. I didn't mean to confuse. PLEASE FORGIVE ME!!!!
Author's Note After: The stuff about the cow pox is true. It was discovered part way through the 18th Century that dairy maids didn't contract smallpox, but that instead they got a less dangerous illness from milking cows called cow pox. Not only was the death rate lower, but it didn't leave the victims with the tell tale scars like small pox did, and it was due to the dairy maids' fair and beautiful complexions that this was discovered. I thought that would be nice for our dear KenKen. And his brain injury reared its ugly head, but Ran helped him. Sigh
The football here is, of course, soccer. Its been around since at least the 15th Century, and has almost always been followed by a brawl. I'm not kidding, that's what the books said! And I wanted to have a blending of cultures in this story, so I left Ran his katana.
I hope you liked it! Thank you so much for reading! Only two chapters left! Please R & R!
Akikaze-san: Thank you SO MUCH! I'm so glad you liked chapter 10, and I hope you liked this one too. That's the kind of review that keeps me wanting to write! I forgot the whole romantic discussion was in that chapter. I liked it too. It just seemed to obvious to resist, I had to write it. And I'm glad you liked Asuka and the Aunties at the start. It was really fun to write them. I couldn't help myself. I'm so, so happy that you liked it! Yay! And again, thank you for the wonderful review and thanks for reading!
Marsupial: HA! I love it! I used to love startling my brother, but now he's bigger than I am. Yay! You're still reading! Thanks for the review and for reading. I'm so addicted to reviews now. I'm checking my email all the time! This is addictive, this writing! Glad you made it home okay! Have a great summer!
Vero: Hey! I'm glad you discovered my fic and I'm glad you like it! Its almost over! Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Mondtanz: Wow, you downloaded my chapter to read in the airport?! I'm so honored! Thanks so much! And I hope it was a good distraction for you. I know how airports are. I hope you caught my note above about the lineage stuff. If you're still confused let me know. You weren't alone which means bad, bad me! I should've made sure it was more clear. Thanks for reviewing and reading! Have a great summer!
Misao-The-Weasel: I'm glad you like the happy story line. With the way things are today I can't take too much darkness, although if they're Ran/Ken I read those too! I hope you understand the lineage a little better now? There's a note above in case you skipped it. I know I can be long winded, and confusing. You weren't the only one I confused, so I need to try and fix that somehow...someday. Thanks for reviewing and reading!
Alexandra: Thanks for the email! I'm glad you like the fic. Did you get your email reply? Thanks for reviewing and reading!