Chris looked at his step-poppa with wide eyes. "What? You… know?"
Eric smiled softly. "I must admit, I wasn't really sure. Old parents trick. So, am I right? Do you have feelings for Adam?"
Chris couldn't help but chuckle. "well, I fell for it, hook, line and sinker. Yes, poppa I have deep feelings for Adam. No, more than that, I do love him, and he loves me. He has told me to forget it. That would be impossible. Part of me knows he is right, but the other part doesn't care what anyone thinks. The one thing I am sure of, I don't want Adam hurt in any way. So there it is, poppa. I am asking for your advice." He looked at Eric expectantly.
Eric finished his small drink. "Chris, I will have to speak to your father about this. I have to say, I am not all that surprised. Adam is very handsome and so sweet. But, as you well know, it presents a huge problem, but not how you think. There is a lot to consider here."
Chris also finished his drink with a grimace, he wasn't fond of whiskey. "I have considered things. We both know it could bring… shame.. on this house, but, do you and father really care that much about what the old Dames say?"
Eric leaned over and put a hand on his step-son's shoulder. "Son, I wasn't talking about our family. I was talking about Adam's family. How you think it would make Adam feel to have his brother, waiting on him, calling him my Lord? I believe both you and Adam were and are so worried about what London society would think, you didn't stop to consider the people living in this house. I don't mean the McMahon family, I mean the downstairs family. I do admire that you don't want Adam hurt, but, you never considered the thing that could hurt him most of all. Maybe you should be having a conversation with them?" Eric gave Chris a very pointed look.
Chris' face contorted as he absorbed Eric's words. He scrubbed his face with his hands. "Oh poppa, you are so correct. Neither Adam nor myself thought of that. Again, you are right. We do need to talk to his family. However, it would be pointless to do so if you and father put forth objections. Will you at least tell me how you feel personally?" He looked hard at his poppa.
It was Eric's turn to sigh. "Personally, as your poppa, I think it's wonderful. Adam would be a lovely addition to the family. Honestly, the two of you would have adorable children, just like Roman and Seth. However, as Duke Eric McMahon, I would have a few second thoughts. Not that I would necessarily object. You know we have never cared about impressing society, but we do have a high position. I would like to think those things don't really matter, but they do. Chris, I would have to talk to your father about it. I'm sorry this hasn't been the most helpful conversation." He did feel bad. Chris had come to him for help, but Eric couldn't give it at the moment.
"No, poppa, it's fine. I knew you would want to talk to father. I only wanted your personal opinion. You also made me realize, that I need speak with his family. Oh poppa, why does love have to be so hard? If any of this comes to a no, it will mean two broken hearts. I promised Adam that if it was no, it would be no. May I ask, when will you speak to father?" Chris wasn't upset, but he did want things resolved sooner rather than later.
"I understand, son. I will speak to your father tonight, when we are alone. Chris, the respect you show for Adam's feelings shows how much you love him. If it is no, it will be difficult, no point in denying this. Chris… would… would you leave us?" Eric's face filled with concern. He loved having his family living in the house. If Chris left, it would be terrible.
Chris sighed. "I honestly don't know, poppa. I really have no place to go. I am not going to the old estate. It's miles and miles too far. I won't give up my work with the orphanage. Perhaps I could live there. Lady Prudence has cottages on the property. I would do whatever Adam asked me to do." He answered honestly.
"We would hate to lose you, son. I have a feeling Adam would never ask you to leave. I fear he would be the one to go, but, to where? Would his mother and brother follow? Well, let us not jump to any conclusions just yet. There still too many unanswered questions. Try to relax, Chris. We will talk tomorrow, after I speak to your father tonight. We may have another problem on our hands. It never rains but pours in this house." Eric spoke with a bit of a rueful chuckle.
"Ah, you must be talking about Dean. You know he loves Kenny. It is a much better match than Regal. I hope father doesn't start making political love matches or we are all doomed." Chris tried to laugh, but it was a fear he harbored.
Eric did outright laugh. "Oh my dearest child, your poppa will not let that happen. I can promise you that. Your father might nudge Dean a little but now, I am sure Kenny will eventually be part of this family and Dean will be part of the Hart family. Shawn and I have certain things well under our control. Bret and your father think they run things, but as you well know, they don't. At least not in all things. Son, leave it to me, I will speak to your father. You and Adam need to discuss talking to his family."
Chris smiled. "Well, thank you for that, poppa. Oh and we are very well aware of who runs the family. Why do you think I came to you first. I will talk to Adam, tonight. We have to talk in his room, to keep it secret. He is going to be upset. I promised him I would stay with the asking for a friend story." He was worried how Adam would react to knowing Eric knew.
"You can put the blame on me. Tell him I knew. Son, just be careful no one sees you going into his room. It would just make trouble for him. Remember, you're in a very… delicate situation." Eric's eyes flashed with a bit of warning as he looked at Chris.
"I will think of something. I don't want him upset. Yes, I will be careful. Thanks for this, poppa. It was a great day when father married you. I mean I do miss poppa Patrick, but…" Chris wasn't sure how to say what he felt.
"Chris, it is normal for you to love Patrick, he was your birth father. I am proud to share that love with him. Just like Dean and Roman share their love for their father with Vince. That is why I don't like the word step-child or step-parent. I never want you or Stephanie to ever forget Patrick. The two of you need to tell Shane about him as well. I have a picture of the three of you with Patrick and Vince, not long after Shane was born. I treasure it, but I will give it to you, any time you want it." Eric smiled softly at his "step" son.
"That means a lot to me, poppa. Give the picture to Shane one day. Steph and I have him in our memory. Well, I will get out of your way. I know you are a busy man. Thank you again for talking to me about it. Poppa… just don't let father do anything that might hurt Adam. I love you, poppa." Chris leaned over and hugged Eric.
"I love you, son. Don't worry, Adam will be alright." Eric returned Chris' hug.
Chris left Eric in the morning room. He didn't really have anything to do. Normally he would have teased his sister about getting tizzied up to out with Natalya, but he didn't feel like it. He wondered what Adam was doing. Chris found himself in his room. A hot bath sounded nice. If he rang, maybe Adam would come. Chris pulled the bell cord in his sitting room.
Downstairs at the table in the servant's hall, Adam sat and polished the last of the silverware. Mark sat with him and did a bit of household paperwork. He looked up when the bell in Chris' room rang.
Adam wanted to answer, but made no move to do so because Mark spoke. "Beth, see what the young Lord needs." He gave Adam a look.
"Yes, Mister Calaway." Beth called out from the kitchen. She was glad to have something to do. Becky had gone to help Lady Stephanie. Lord Seth, Nanny and the babies were still out.
"I would have gone." Adam kept his voice light and continued to polish.
Mark winked at Adam. "She needed something to do. And you need to… polish. No, I am trying to… well… protect you a bit. Son, one day, when you have children of your own, you will understand. Oh… just polish." He chuckled a bit.
Adam shook his head. "Yes, Sir. I do understand." He laughed when he heard the hot water boiler gurgle. "Oh he must have wanted a bath. Lady Stephanie already drew hers."
Mark nodded. "Sounds like it. Also sounds like your brother is back." He got up and rapidly took off his apron and put on his coat. The front door bell had rung. He hurried upstairs.
As Adam polished, he couldn't help but wonder how Chris' talk with Duke Eric had gone. Chris had probably hoped for him to come up to start his bath. Well, it couldn't be helped.
Adam looked when another bell rang. Lord Seth needed someone to come to his room. Adam changed into his coat and ran upstairs. After all, he was the Valet to Lord's Seth and Roman.
"Adam, run a bath for me, please. I'm afraid Reggie didn't like the milk at the Parliament Club. I am a bit sticky." He pointed to a rather large stain on his coat, that had soaked through to his shirt.
Adam gave a nod. "Yes, Milord. I will take your suit to be cleaned." He went into the bathroom, plugged the large tub and began to fill it with hot water. He then turned on the cold. When the water was perfect, he let it run to fill the tub. He laid out a clean washing cloth and a large, dry towel. When the tub was filled enough, he turned off the taps.
In the meant time, Seth had stripped naked and slipped into his robe. Adam came back into the bedroom. At least his Lord's dressed and undressed themselves.
"It's ready, Milord. Will you need me to wait?" Adam asked politely. He always helped with collars, ties and coats.
Seth shook his head. "No, thank you. Better get that washed. Thank you, Adam." He smiled at the footman, then went to bathe.
Adam picked up the soiled clothes. He didn't envy Becky the job. The smell was not a pleasant one. With a final glance at the room, Adam took the suit and went downstairs.
The rest of the afternoon passed as normal. Tea was served upstairs and enjoyed downstairs.
Adam worked hard to keep his mind off Lord Christopher as he, Mark and Beth served the family supper.
Most of the talk was about Stephanie's first formal tea at Gunther's. "Sorry you and Kenny weren't able to make it, Dean. You two would have enjoyed it. They cut the cakes to look like hearts." Lady Stephanie spoke with a tone of excitement.
"We were going to go, then a client suddenly showed up and we had to take care of it. Sir William was at Parliament. Maybe we can make it next time." Dean explained with a bite of his perfectly cooked roast beef.
Duke Vince spoke. "Copeland, please tell your sainted mother, this is the best roast beef I have ever eaten. My compliments."
Adam gave the Duke a deep nod. " I will, Your Grace, thank you." He held the platter so the Duke could put another serving on his plate.
"I agree, this is simply delicious. My compliments to your mother as well." Lord Christopher also took more when Adam offered.
"Thank you, Milord. She will be so pleased you all enjoyed it." Adam gave another nod.
After dinner was cleared, the family went to the morning room to spend the evening together. Mark kept an eye out and made sure no one lacked for anything, they wanted or needed.
Downstairs, Adam passed on all the compliments to his mother. "They couldn't praise it enough. Lords Roman and Dean had four servings." Adam stated as he put the clean dishes in the dumbwaiter as Paige washed and Becky dried.
"I put it down to Mister Schulz. It was high quality beef. You keep speaking German, my boy." Judy grinned and worked on putting away the very few left overs.
Later, Mark enjoyed his newspaper, Judy knitted, the three maids worked on their sewing and Jason listened to a football match. Adam sat in his chair and pretended to read his book.
Judy looked over when Adam sighed. She gave a chuckle. "Son, I know you are a very smart young man. However, even the smartest of men can't read a book upside down."
Adam flushed and turned the book right side up. "I guess I shouldn't try to read and listen to Manchester play football."
Jason laughed a bit. "Addy, it's Chelsea, not Manchester. I think you are lost in the clouds."
Adam closed his book. "I am going to my room. I think I need a good, long sleep." He stood and kissed his mother and said goodnight to the others. Adam headed off to his bedroom.
Jason stood. "I am going to check on him."
"No, son. Leave him. You know how he gets sometimes." Judy gave Jason a motherly look.
"Alright, ma. Yes, you are right. He'd probably bite my head off. Oh, may I invite Maxwell to Sunday tea? We'd like to listen to the cricket." Jason sat back down and lit a cigar.
Adam settled in at his desk. He wanted to get started on the drawing exercises for Tommy. His pencil flew across the paper. He drew examples of how to shade things, according to the direction of the light.
When the family went up for the night, Eric shot Chris a look of confidence. Chris knew then Eric was about to speak to his father about Adam and himself. He went to his room first, to give the others a chance to settle in.
Chris smiled when Roman and Seth went to the nursery to spend time with their babies. They were wonderful parents and hoped to have another baby next year. Seth just hoped it wasn't twins again.
Eric and Vince had changed into their silken pajamas and smoking jackets. They had cigars and brandy as they sat, close together on the leather sofa in their sitting room.
"Well, my dear, what is on your handsome mind that made us come up an hour early." Vince put an arm around his husband.
"Vince, we have a problem. No, that's not quite the right word. We have a situation. I am also not quite sure how to start…" Eric paused and took a puff of the cigar. He turned his head as to not exhale the smoke in his husband's face.
Vince also puffed his cigar, the smoke wafted from his mouth as he spoke. "Just say it, my love. It's probably not as critical as you think."
Eric shook his head. "Oh darling, it is critical. How we handle it, could mean the difference between one of our children moving out or staying."
Vince gave Eric a hard look. "Eric Aaron McMahon, what in the hell are you talking about? Is one of our children in trouble?" He wasn't angry, he was deeply concerned.
"Yes, but not… it's a matter of the heart. Vince, Christopher is in love, probably more in love than even he realizes. Our Chris is in love with Adam, our Footman. I am quite sure Adam is in love with Chris…" Eric went on to explain to his husband, the conversation he'd had with Chris that afternoon, in detail.
Upstairs, Adam was so lost in his drawing, he never heard when Chris entered his room. "Adam, it's me." Chris called out softly as not to frighten the blond.
Adam's brain registered Chris' words and made his heart beat faster. He turned in his chair. "Hello, I was doing some work for Tommy. Come, tell me what you think." He held out the sketchbook for Chris. The smile on his face was brilliant.
Chris took the sketchbook. "Ah, teaching him about shading. You noticed it too." He laid the book on Adam's desk then leaned against it.
"Yes, he didn't have it quite right on his drawing of you and Highflyer. It was just off enough for the viewer to know something wasn't right. I hope this helps him." Adam looked up at Chris.
Chris reached out and caressed Adam's cheek with a smile. "It will help. Tommy will be grateful. He is so eager to learn all he can about art. Thank you for being so willing to help him. By the way, speaking of art, Sir Jerry Lawler, the owner of the gallery I took your drawing for framing to, loved your work. He asked me if you had more. He was very interested. He said you had a fantastic eye for detail. Would you be interested in doing more drawings I could show him?" He had a look of pride for Adam in his eyes.
Adam's mouth fell open. "A gallery owner liked my drawing? It was just a quick sketch, not that good. I would question his taste in art." Adam chuckled.
Chris laughed. "Sir Lawler is one of the best art critics in all of England. If he says your drawing is good, I would listen to him. You have the potential to become a famous artist, my love. But, that is up to you." He gave Adam a wink.
Adam couldn't form the words he wanted to say. "I… I… my goodness. Let me think about it, Chris. It is not something I ever considered. My drawing is… the way I relax at times. I haven't drawn seriously for years. I'm more worried about your talk with Duke Eric." Adam suddenly realized, art was the furthest thing from his mind.
Chris took Adam by the hand and led him to the bed. Adam halted and blew out the lamp on his desk. Jason didn't need to see it. When they settled side by side on the bed, Chris spoke.
"I have to tell you, poppa already knew. I told him it was for a friend, but he asked me, directly if it was you and I. Adam, I could not lie to my poppa. He said for you to blame him, and that I tried to keep my promise. So, before I continue, I need to know that you understand."
Adam looked at Chris. "Thank you for trying. I have to confess, my brother and Mark knew too. I suppose we aren't good at hiding it. I am not mad at you. I could never truly be angry with you." He felt bad and laced his fingers with Chris'.
Chris smiled and gave Adam a soft kiss. "Now, I do have something serious to talk about. Poppa made me realize that it isn't just my family, but yours as well. We have to talk to them, together. They have a right to voice their thoughts. It will affect them as well. We have to consider everything." Chris' tone changed to serious and the look on his face enhanced it.
"No, Chris. The only family that has the worry is yours. They have all of London society to worry about. That won't matter to my family." Adam sighed deeply. Chris still did not understand what it could do the McMahon's.
Chris took Adam's other hand in his. "Have you ever considered this? Jason saying yes, Milord Adam?" He arched his brow at Adam, his eyes stern.
Adam's eyes opened even wider than when told about the gallery. The impact of Chris' words hit him like a brick wall. "No, I never thought of that. Well, that's it, Chris. Nothing can happen between us. I couldn't live with my mother and brother calling me Lord. I'm sorry, I really am. Part of me held out a tiny bit… of maybe… it could work, but now… oh Chris, please… please." He couldn't stop the tears as he fell into Chris' arms.
Chris held tight to Adam. "We… could live in a cottage on the orphanage grounds. We could, Adam. Prudence has offered it to me more than once." He felt his own tears form, but kept them from falling. It hurt Chris to hear and see Adam so rent in two.
Adam sniffed. "No, Chris. You can't leave your family and I can't leave mine. It is just hopeless. We can't be together. So let's stop pretending we can. It might have been a nice dream, but that's all it ever really was, a dream." He pulled back from Chris and swiped away his tears.
"I would for you, Adam. I would move with you. It doesn't have to be a dream. We could pack our bags and go, right now." Chris looked at Adam with hope.
Adam stood and went to the other side of the room, as far away from Chris as he could get. "No, Chris. I can't. I can't just abandon my family or my work. Please, sir. Just go, and go now. Please, Milord, please." Adam begged with his words and his entire being.
Chris stood, he had keep Adam from being in a panic. "Alright, Adam. I will go. But we still aren't sure about what father will say. I will find out, then, promise me we can talk again. Please, Adam? Besides, you can't quit on Tommy. I will go now… but… " Chris moved toward Adam. "One last kiss?" Chris asked softly as he stood in front of the blond.
With a nod, Adam fell into Chris' arms. Adam knew it would be their last kiss. He wanted the memory to keep and cherish. Chris let his fingers tangle in Adam's ponytail, as Adam did the same with his fingers in Chris' shoulder length hair. They kissed as if it were their last moments on earth.
When the kiss broke, blue looked deep into hazel. "Somehow. Goodnight, my love." Chris spoke softly. He then left Adam's room.
Adam sighed deeply, and sat on the bed. His mind was on a million different thoughts. On thought though, always came to the forefront, he was hopelessly in love with Lord Christopher Keith Irvine Jericho McMahon.
When Chris passed his parents room, he could hear them speak, but couldn't make out any words. At least their voices didn't appear to be raised. He hoped that was a good sign.
Chris could hear Stephanie's gramophone, she listened to some opera. The volume was just low enough that he couldn't make out the aria. Dean's door had no light under it. He was already in bed. Well, after all, being a law clerk was mentally tiring. He could hear Roman and Seth in the nursery with the twins. He went into his room and shut the door.
Chris went to his drinks try and poured himself a drink of whiskey. He drank the sip with a shudder, then went to the window seat and looked out. He had a million things on his mind, but one thing always came to the forefront. He was in love with Adam Joseph Copeland, Footman/Valet.
"Well, my dear I really don't see it causing terrible problems. Oh, some will talk, but that can be controlled by Regal. The problem will lie in this house." Vince spoke with a bit of a shrug, and looked at his husband.
Eric nodded. "You mean with Adam's family?" His brow arched at Vince.
Vince nodded. "How will the boy feel when his brother and mother have to address him as Lord Adam? It would have to be worked out. I can't let those kinds of issues arise at a formal party we host. Jason would have to show his brother the respect then. I can't agree to anything until I know how his family would react."
Eric smiled. "I will tell Chris, he and Adam should talk to Jason and Judy as well as the others. I am sure Calaway will have a say. Depending on that conversation, we will know what to do next. I would suggest, we have our own talk with Judy, perhaps Calaway too."
"Yes. Honestly, Eric. I think Chris and Adam would give us beautiful grandchildren." Vince spoke in a thought filled voice.
Eric chuckled a bit. "Vinnie, please be honest, this is not a game. How do you really feel about Chris and Adam?" He gave Vince a look that only a worried spouse could give.
Vince sighed a lit a second cigar. He exhaled a puff of blue-gray smoke. "Honestly, I wish Chris would find someone who would be his social equal. However, I know my son, and those things have never mattered to him. I do like Adam. He is handsome, hard working and from what I understand, well read and very smart. Chris could do worse. I will accept anyone my children chose. It is also what Patrick would have wanted for them. That is my honest answer." He looked Eric in the eye so his husband knew he spoke the truth.
Eric leaned over and kissed Vince's cheek. As he did, a light knock echoed on the door. "Come in, Chris." Eric called out. He laughed when Vince arched his brow.
Chris came into the room and shut the door behind him. "I just… well, I have to know." He looked at his parents with angst.
"Come sit, son." Vince indicated to one of the sitting chairs across from the sofa.
When Chris was settled, Vince spoke. "Let me ask you something, son. Why Adam?"
Chris let a soft smile play over his lips. "He is the most wonderful person. He is handsome, kind, gentle, caring, but also has a bit of a temper. Adam is smart and can speak German, French, Italian and Spanish. He cares about people, sometimes to the point of forgetting to take care of himself. He loves children and is so… fatherly with them, no, more than that, he is motherly with them. I have also, just recently discovered he is a brilliant artist, with the potential to have a showing in a gallery. Adam Joseph Copeland is the one I have been looking for. He is the one that completes my soul. Does that answer your question, father?"
Vince gave a light laugh. "Yes, son it does, and quite well. Are you sure he feels the same about you?" He gave Chris a hard look.
It was Chris' turn to smile. "Yes, he does. So, what did you decide? Is there any hope?" He also gave Vince a hard glare.
Vince smiled at his eldest child. "So much like your poppa. Sorry my love, you know how much I love you, but…" His smile turned to sadness.
Eric laid a hand on Vince's arm. "Today would have been his birthday. It's alright, my love. I do understand. I also don't live with his ghost. I share your heart with him. Just as you share mine with Roman and Dean's father. Now, answer your son's question." Eric leaned over and kissed Vince's cheek.
"Oh father… I forgot my own poppa's birthday. I feel terrible. We can talk about this tomorrow." Chris started to get up, but Vince halted him. Chris settled back onto the chair.
"Son, your poppa knew you loved him. It does my heart good that you, Stephanie and Shane consider Eric as your poppa. Just as Roman and Dean look on me as their father. That is how it should be…" Vince paused took a final puff of cigar, exhaled and continued.
"Son, I have no serious objections to you and Adam. Of course, there will be a few of the old Dames who might try to take issue, but I can control that. The dear old Queen's old ways are outdated, and progressives like the Hart's and ourselves realize this. There is no real or lasting damage that can be done to the name of McMahon. The problem lies here, in our own home. Not so much with our family but with Adam's. You and Adam need to have a serious talk with his mother and brother. You and Adam talk to them, then I and your poppa will talk to you. Then, depending on how that goes, we will all sit down and talk. I realize this involves a lot of talking, but that is how problems are resolved. If only our friends in Germany would sit down and talk, perhaps all the saber rattling would stop. So, are you willing to put in the effort to talk." Vince gave Chris a firm look. If he and Adam were serious, it would be a lot of hard work.
Chris looked his father directly in the eye. I will do whatever I have to do to make this work. I love Adam, and if I have to talk till my tongue breaks, I will do it. Poppa, give the servants Sunday off. Go to the Hart's? The we can talk to his family with no bells calling them away. Please?" He turned his gaze from Vince to Eric. His eyes burned with hope.
Eric nodded. "Of course, son. Shawn invited us to go with them to hear the concert at Hyde Park on Sunday anyway. I will also tell Seth, if they don't want to take the twins, Nanny is not to disturb with bells. However, knowing Seth and Roman, the twins will go. I can never say it enough, we owe Adam for little Bea's life. Doctor Drew told us, had Adam not found the stinger, she could have died."
Chris' look changed to one of pride, pride for Adam. "Thank you, poppa. Father, thank you too. I… didn't mean to cause you this much worry, but love is love. I happened to fall in love with Adam. I love you both so very much. We are lucky to have progressive parents. Goodnight." He stood and kissed both his parents on the cheek.
"Goodnight, son. Remember, good things come if you persevere." Vince gave his son a wink.
"Goodnight, dear boy. I know you, make sure you aren't seen. Not until you speak to his family." Eric too gave Chris a wink.
"I will. You do know me too well." Chris left his parents. He had a spring in his step. All hope was not lost… yet.
"What was that about, my love?" Vince asked as he stood. He was more than ready for bed.
Eric stood with a laugh. "He will go up to Adam's room, to tell him about all this. Our son is determined. I only hope it won't all end in heartbreak or explosion." He sighed, he too was more than ready for a good sleep himself.
Chris quietly made his way to Adam's room. The blond was still awake, at his desk, working on Tommy's drawing exercises. He went to Adam. Adam shook his head, Lord Christopher was a stubborn bastard.
"I won't stay, but, you need to know. All hope is not lost. You and the others will have Sunday off. You and I will speak to your brother and mother. Maybe a nice picnic in the park. We will go from there. I love you, Adam." Chris leaned and kissed Adam. He left before Adam could say anything.
Adam stared after Chris. Was it possible? Was there a glimmer of hope? Adam knew on Sunday, there would be a very deep conversation.