Revelations sequel

by LopendVuur

So many novels end with the promise of marriage, and so few describe what happens after. I've often wondered about this particular wedding night, but frankly, Mr Darcy has changed so much by giving him some human feelings, I cannot imagine him, or Elizabeth, fumbling secretly in the dark anymore. Their first efforts must be heart-warming, their married life as well. Purists beware!

163. Chapter 163

Chapter 173

The rest of the afternoon seemed to take forever, at least for Simon, since there was very little for him to do after he had dressed Mr Darcy for his first meeting with Mr Manners' friends. Whilst Simon attended to Mr Darcy, both his master and Mrs Darcy had been very kind to him, which surprised him since he had to admit he had deported himself rather poorly the day before, being insolent to the man who paid his salary and who had ignored Simon's mooning over him for years, and finally protected him from superior staff wanting to bring him down for his perversion. All this time, Simon had enjoyed the privileges Mr Darcy had given him without realising his master saw right through him. He should be thankful for the trust Mr Darcy had gifted him with, allowing Simon to instruct his wife in the ways of city life, dressing Miss Darcy for special occasions, letting him choose his master's coats and pantaloons, and almost all the presents that were passed around in the family.

Coming to the conclusion that even Mrs Darcy apparently cared about his well being, Simon decided to be honest to both of them on what had happened between him and Mr Manners so far, and what he was planning to do with the gentleman that evening. Maybe they disapproved of Simon indulging in his perversions whilst under their protection, or maybe he was overlooking some obvious danger in forming an attachment to a man of their class.

During and after dinner, things became a little more interesting for Simon. There was no way in which a visiting male personal servant could help the regular staff, however busy they were with a house full of guests, without making a spectacle of himself, but there were plenty of new faces to get acquainted with to help pass the time. Talking to the valets of Mr Manners' friends was reasonably entertaining and almost worrisomely informative, and in their company evening came and eventually went, however slowly. Supper was long past, the view from the windows was pitch black, the day was coming to an end. Time to go meet his master and mistress as they retired.

Outside, snow was still falling thickly, and even in the front of the house the hallways were sparsely lighted and cold, but the drawing-room would still be warm and bright with a roaring fire and plenty of lamps. From his regular waiting spot at the top of the stairs Simon could hear the sounds of the piano playing and people conversing lively, Mr Bingley and his guests were obviously enjoying themselves very much.

Simon expected Mr Manners' friends to make a very late night of it, their valets' stories had been very enlightening on what seven bachelors did to avoid being bored, and Mr Manners seemed to be a key figure in their close group. Frankly, having heard some of their men's descriptions of the kind of entertainment their masters usually preferred, Simon's hopes of Frederick having fallen for him had more or less shattered: it was obvious to him why Frederick didn't join his friends in their debaucheries with women and booze, but it was also painfully obvious he wasn't ready to lead the retired life which was needed to keep a forbidden love hidden from the world.

In the cold and dark main hall, Simon used the time he waited for his master well, deciding whether he wanted Frederick to be the first man he slept with if that was all he was to be. There was no reason to expect the bachelor of bachelors to be the first of his friends to settle when he would never be able to do so openly. Simon had to face the harsh reality, most likely Mr Manners was just enjoying another party, one where he could finally indulge himself in his own personal vice: sleeping with men. Knowing this, having no expectations of him, was Simon still interested in meeting him tonight?

His reason said 'no', reminding him of how the gentleman had so carelessly lured him into talking freely of the man who meant the world to him, his master. But then he felt the memory of those strong hands on his skin, the adulation he'd gotten from the self-assured, dominant man, the insecure little boy he'd seen for a few blessed moments. He remembered the heavy muscle on the chest and arms, the wealth of black hair on the strong body and the smell of it. Would it be such a bad thing to enjoy all that for just one night, or maybe two or three, as long as they were both here at Netherfield?

By the time he saw Mr and Mrs Darcy coming up the stairs totally involved in each other, Simon knew that if he followed his heart he would not regret it. Didn't he have a right to some love as much as they did, even if it was just for a few days? Frederick might leave him, but Simon was certain he would not have to fear his secret coming out, Frederick had much more to lose. There really was no reason not to do this, as long as he kept firmly in mind that it was just physical intimacy, not love.

But what about Mr Manners and his friends, shouldn't Simon warn his master they were not what they seemed? Mr Darcy didn't approve of gossip, and fully aware of this Simon had dared to give him quite a lot of it that day already, concerning Miss Bingley and her maid. Better not try him too much, this really didn't affect the Darcy family very much after all, a week after the wedding they would all go back to their own lives. Unless Frederick was really making himself agreeable to Miss Darcy, as she clearly thought. What to do?

The way in which Mr Darcy looked at his wife, and the number of kisses and other small intimacies they had exchanged whilst in Simon's view left no doubt in his mind that there would be no opportunity for advice or confessions tonight, but didn't that also mean he was free to do what he wished so much with Frederick? Just this one night to please himself, even if it was with someone who might have designs on his family?

Mr and Mrs Darcy were aching to be together, as Simon wanted to be with Frederick, as he would be with Frederick. Guilt still trying to convince him to think the better of it, his voice sounded unlike himself as he addressed his master and mistress despite knowing it was not his place to initiate a conversation.

'I suppose you will not be needing our services tonight?'

'I think not, Simon,' Mrs Darcy replied, 'tonight your master and I will help each other to undress and put away our clothes. Thank you so much for your understanding.'

She sounded very kind, as if imagining him still in love with her husband. Little did she know what Simon was thinking of doing this very night, what would it be like if Frederick really did unbutton those pantaloons, if he reached for what was inside, was aching for his touch?

'But Simon, it seems as if you may have a need for us tonight, you seem a bit out of sorts, has someone been after you?'

He would do well to compose himself much, much better where his mistress could see him, she was so observant, and just incredibly smart. The way she had picked up on his hints of goings-on all around them when they had strolled through London together, Simon explaining what was expected of a lady in London, and how to recognise slights and insults and how to address them even more subtly than they had been delivered. He was not himself and she had spotted it in seconds, though she was completely wrong about the cause of his strange mood he did need to appear more like himself.

'Oh no, Mrs Darcy, everyone here has been very nice to me.'

He was in doubt for a few moments, then thought of the awkwardness of being caught out later if he lied to her now. So he decided to confess to the truth.

'I had hoped to get the master's advice on some private matter, but this is clearly not the right moment, I'm sorry to have imposed on you. It will be fine, I think I've made my decision already. Thank you ma'am, for your concern, we all really value it. I dare wish you a very good night, I'll tell Fanny she won't be needed until tomorrow morning. Will you ring when you're ready for us?'

Fortunately, they were too eager to be by themselves for further inquiry, leaving Simon half hoping, half fearing to be in that same blessed situation an hour, or maybe two, later. He left the door unlocked to enable Frederick to enter without knocking, in the dead of night every little sound carried and he expected the popular Mr Manners to stay with his friends until all the action had died down in the front.

But it was much less than an hour later that Frederick quietly tried the handle of the door to Simon's tiny room, hoping Simon had left the door unlocked to prevent his visitor from having to wait where others could see him in case he was still busy attending to Mr Darcy. Despite knowing Simon might not be at liberty as yet, Frederick hadn't been able to keep himself from leaving the drawing-room right after Mr and Mrs Darcy had retreated for the night. His heart was just not with his friends tonight. He kept seeing a beautiful face, wanted to touch and smell Simon's white skin, ached to make him gasp and moan in ardour as well as talk with him intimately.

Robert had helped him change to his dressing gown as calmly as always, though the sedate valet had remarked that several of his master's friends might want to check their personal attendants' tongues a little more towards other people's staff.

'Mr Darcy's valet is a handsome fellow, sir, and very popular with the girls, but I see no need to want to impress him with all kinds of tales that can only make a wrong impression in a household like this. And it's not just that we're in the country, sir, if you catch my meaning.'

Frederick certainly did, the young pests had been bragging to Simon about the bachelor of bachelors' way to conduct a party. Fools! He'd have to warn his friends of the danger of loose-mouthed staff, even if they gossiped out of ignorance it was unpardonable, had they any idea what London reporters would pay for sordid information on Mr Frederick Manners? And now he'd have some explaining to do to Simon as well, whatever would a righteous soul like him think of a man who kept such company when he'd lived with the exemplary Mr Darcy for almost his entire working life?

'Thank you, Robert, for your warning. Whose valets were at it? I'll need them to talk to their men about it, we cannot have rumours flying.'

'It was Mr Acton's man, sir, who started it. And Mr Ponsonby's man wanted to outdo him, with Bathurst's chipping in, but he's still a boy, can't fault him for wanting to be part of a conversation with a fellow like Close, they admire him and want him to pay attention to them.'

Well, at least that was something Frederick did understand, how he craved Simon to notice him!

'And did they manage to get his attention? Do I have to fear Mr Darcy's censure tomorrow? He doesn't strike me as the kind to talk to servants.'

'Mr Darcy is not the type to listen to tales, sir, as far as I can deduce from what is told in the back. And Close didn't seem all that impressed by their bragging. But it is said his master is very familiar with him, at least was until he got married. So it's anyone's guess, really.'

Immediately after that, Robert was done and dismissed, and Frederick had hastened to the servants' part of the house, in his dressing gown, where he now hoped to find shelter in Simon's room until its owner would return.

And indeed the door opened soundlessly as Frederick quietly went inside and closed it behind him. Then his heart nearly stopped, for Simon was already there, sitting on his bed, still dressed in his livery, looking up from a book he had obviously been reading. The lamp on his night stand lighted up his short blond hair, making it look like a thin gold crown gracing his flawless features. He looked more like a prince than ever, and Frederick wanted to kneel before him and kiss his hand.

But Simon was not a prince, waiting to be humbly greeted by his adulating subject, so why didn't he get up to greet his beloved with a kiss or an embrace? Why was he so aloof? Doubt instantly assailed Frederick, he had been buzzing with anticipation all day for this very moment, but Simon didn't look eager at all to meet Frederick. Had he come to his senses, was he steeling himself to reject an influential gentleman? Of course he couldn't love a man like Frederick, just look at him, it was just impossible that such a handsome man would not scorn a dumpy short fellow like Frederick for even considering it.

And then he smiled, a sweet, rather nervous smile.

'I didn't expect you so soon, Frederick, so I picked up a book to pass the time. You're not going to tell me your friends retired for the night already, are you?'

He was just surprised! And a bit out of sorts, certainly, but not because he hated Frederick or was trying to find words to send him away without insulting an important man. He had no experience with men, he had probably imagined some disconcerting things about being intimate with a man.

And he had obviously heard plenty of gossip in the common room.

'I left them to their entertainments, I could only think of being with you. Bingley will keep them in line. He used to be one of us, you know. May I join you on the bed?'

Now Simon held out his hand, just a hand, but it was a start, and Frederick sat as close to him as he could and took it, kissing it, then holding it to his cheek. Simon felt tense, he was indeed afraid of what was to come, though he did not shy from Frederick's touch. Frederick knew he had to face the possibility that Simon was having second thoughts but didn't dare admit to them because he couldn't risk insulting a gentleman. He knew he risked abusing a servant if he didn't ask. But he just couldn't do it, he could not voice his own fear that Simon regretted his brazenness in encouraging Frederick.

Instead, he bent over and kissed Simon straight on the mouth.

At first, Simon felt overwhelmed by Frederick's self-assured presence entering the room more than an hour before he'd expected him. This was the Frederick Manners the world knew, and for a few moments Simon was afraid he had made a terrible mistake. But then the gentleman saw him sitting on the bed and instantly changed to an ordinary man, indeed a man who saw someone he admired and loved. Ignoring the implications of that last observation, it did enable him to dare address Frederick playfully, and let him know Simon was onto him.

But being cheeky didn't keep him from wondering what was to come, and he was glad Frederick didn't drop his dressing gown where he stood, to jump on top of Simon and start undressing him. Instead, he sat down as well and accepted the hand Simon offered, giving him a little time to get used to the situation. He looked a lot less self-assured now, and seemed on the verge of saying something when suddenly he bent towards Simon and kissed him deeply.

Shocked at first, Simon had no time to retreat or do anything but answer that kiss, and when he smelled Frederick's masculine scent, mingled with an expensive perfume, pure lust overcame his thoughts and thus his fear. This was what he wanted, he was more certain than ever before.

It was easy enough to stick a hand in the opening of the dressing gown and feel the hair on top of the muscle, and of course that was just the beginning.

'May I take off your livery, my prince?' Frederick asked almost reverently.

'You may do with me what you like, I'm all yours tonight.'

And Simon meant it, he would give himself up to an experienced lover and trust him to be gentle and kind. And when their ways parted again, he would at least know what it was like to make love to a man.

'You are the most beautiful person I ever laid eyes on, Simon,' Frederick muttered, undoing button after button of the valuable livery, exposing ever more of Simon's bare skin. The tension was almost unbearable, Simon's loins throbbed and his mind fluttered, what was going to happen? When the entire row was undone, Frederick kissed him again, and as he bent over Simon the heady combination of perfume and male excitement wafted towards him, driving him out of his mind with desire. He laid a hand in Frederick's neck to keep him close, but when their kiss ended due to mutual lack of breath, Frederick went back to exploring Simon's body, easily taking the hand with him, still lying on the short hair peeking out of the dressing gown to cover his neck. He was incredibly strong, and he proved it even more completely by lifting Simon's upper body to remove the livery altogether.

Frederick did not chuck it into a corner unheeded, instead he gently lowered Simon's upper body back to the bed, then stood up to hang the exquisitely made garment neatly over the single chair. But not before he had kissed Simon's throat, chest, nipples and his stomach, and again, his mouth.

Coat safely out of the way, the large hands explored every inch of Simon's bare chest, so gently he could barely believe his own senses. More kisses followed, and when the lips closed around his nipple and gently sucked it, Simon could not hold back a tiny sound of pure excitement. And another one, when his other nipple got the same soft and moist caress.

That led to another intense kiss, and now Frederick lifted his entire body in his arms, pressing him against his chest, which was still enveloped in a dressing gown, except for a small patch of chest hair escaping the flimsy garment where it closed. Simon wrapped his arms around the man holding him, not because he was afraid to fall, his weight seemed no more than that of a feather to his lover, but because he wanted to be as close to him as possible.

'Oh, my love, I never thought I would be allowed to touch you, ever. I want to hold you like this forever, be with you forever.'

Some part of Simon thought that was going pretty far for a night of pleasure, but it was just a fleeting thought, most of him was raging with the fever of passion, and it wanted more, much more of this bliss and quickly. Freeing one hand, he quickly released the dressing gown, grabbing for the now-bared chest it had hidden from his view but not altogether from his touch, as flimsy as its fabric was he had felt the heat and the muscle of the body underneath all this time.

Now Frederick released his strong hold on Simon for a few moments, to help his lover free him of the dressing gown altogether. Simon threw it aside, it would not wrinkle and his room was clean, and Frederick drew all of his attention since he was now totally undressed. He might not be athletic in the eyes of most fashionable people because he was rather short, but wasn't he an impressive sight with his broad shoulders, bulky chest, much narrower waist and short but superbly muscled legs. His manhood stood proudly, and Simon saw with a mostly excited thrill there was nothing short about that part of his lover's physique. He took his time to admire Frederick's naked body, and Frederick didn't seem to mind, he looked as self-assured as he did dressed up.

'And, my love, do I pass muster?' he asked with a laugh.

Simon did not answer that question with words, instead he gave in to his desire and touched all of it, from the chest over the flat stomach to the legs, and a very firm behind he hadn't even seen yet, but already loved to stroke. He left the most private part for last, aware of his own lack of experience, thrown back on his own sensitivities as his only reference.

'May I touch it?'

Frederick's expression became as soft as Simon had ever seen it, no further reply was needed but still he spoke.

'Please, my love, I want nothing more than for you to touch me. I'm all yours as well.'

Simon now sat on the edge of the bed beside which Frederick was standing, and he gently stroked the shaft, and then the head of his lover's member. It felt much like his own, especially when he took it in his full hand, not too gently now because that was how he liked to touch himself. A gasp sounded above him, and a shudder ran though the massive body.

'It's almost too much, I want you so much. May I take off your pantaloons as well?'

That wasn't unreasonable, and Simon stood up beside Frederick, who sat down on the edge and unbuttoned Simon's pantaloons. Then he slowly, carefully pulled them down, taking his underwear along, easing both over Simon's respectable erection and further down, where he helped Simon out of the rather tight legs of the pantaloons. Leaving them on the floor, he sat back up and stroked Simon's butt cheeks and the cleft between them, further and further down until he reached the back of his testicles. He caressed those gently, then stroked upwards and gripped Simon's member as firmly as Simon had taken his. Simon, too, shuddered with passion, this was so much better than when a woman did it, this was someone who knew from his own experience what felt best.

And then he buckled and nearly fell, as Frederick took the entire head of it in his mouth. The bliss was almost too much to bear, and somehow, Frederick knew it would be, for he steadied his slight lover before Simon could actually fall.

'None of your lady friends ever did that to you?' he asked with a big wink, and Simon had to admit they never had. His preferences had always kept him from truly enjoying being with a woman, and he wasn't surprised at all that somehow this had affected his performance, and that in turn their performance. But that didn't matter anymore, Simon would never lay with a woman again, this was how he was meant to love, he accepted that now.

And that was even before they had really started. When two men in a state of ardour finally let go, sparks will fly, and Simon lost all fear of what might come in heat and eagerness to learn everything Frederick had to teach. Never had he imagined the potential for pleasure that his body held, until now. Frederick didn't just take, he gave everything he had and showed Simon how to give in his turn, until they were both out of their minds with ardour, and straining their bodies beyond their physical limits to please their partner and thus themselves.

Both Simon and Frederick had to really remind themselves to be quiet and not wake the servants in the rooms next to Simon's, it was so easy to forget the dangers of the real world in this little piece of their own heaven. Not until they had let out years of pent-up lust did they find time for tenderness, but when they were both exhausted and sated that time finally did come. And then Simon discovered a side to Frederick that few, if any, had ever seen, and for the duration of that delightful night any doubt he had of Frederick being serious in his attentions was laid to rest.

And then they talked, all through the night. Sleep didn't seem very important to Simon, never in his life had he met someone whom he could love and admire and who showed him as much respect and interest. It really was possible to be equal partners with another man, without age, class or experience being of any significance. Frederick showed his admiration for Simon clearly, and not just for his beauty but also his intelligence and his experience. This was not the one-sided relationship he had feared, and the thought of eventually losing Frederick would have made him very sad, if he'd had the time to think about it. Instead, both men relished the other's presence until they finally fell asleep in each other's arms.

Sounds of staff crossing the hall woke Frederick, and when he felt the warm shape in his arms, still blissfully asleep, his heart swelled with love. He didn't even regret showing Simon his true self, something he had rarely done before and never to someone he had only known for two days. But this was nothing like those other times, never since reaching adulthood had he fallen in love so totally and hopelessly. And Simon deserved to be loved, because he was sweet and kind and smart as well as talented and more beautiful than an angel. Of course Frederick might be on the right track to have his heart broken for good, but what could he do? By now he would risk everything to have a chance at gaining this man's precious love.

Not knowing what time it was, and fearing they had overslept after sharing thoughts and feelings for half the night, he allowed himself to nuzzle the sweet white skin of Simon's throat, then kiss his delicate lips. Of course this woke him up, and Frederick relished Simon's first sleepy mumbles as well as the sweet, sweet recognition in his face when he regained consciousness and saw and felt the presence of another so close to him. Dared he believe that was love, and for Frederick personally, instead of a mere fine memory of a night discovering physical pleasure?

'Frederick! You're still here! I'm glad, or I would have thought I had merely dreamt it all. What time is it? Did I oversleep?'

'I have no idea what time it is, Simon, you don't seem to have a clock. I did hear staff in the hall, they woke me up. I think at least five people passed by.'

'That would be the cook and his helpers arriving, and the cleaning maids. Which means we have a difficult choice before us, my love. We can spend half an hour on each other, but it will be hard to get you back to your own room unnoticed when wearing nothing but a dressing gown. Or we can part straight away with just a kiss or two and be safe: they will be busy in the kitchen for now and the personal staff keeps later hours.'

'You've been here before, Simon, you know best.'

The slender shape in his arms turned around to face him, and two hands took hold of Frederick's cheeks, undoubtedly covered with a black sheen of stubble by now. A kiss on his lips and Simon's expression proved his former smiles had indeed been personal, and his words proved he had noticed Frederick's slight disappointment.

'I'm sorry, my love, I didn't mean to be just practical. I'm not used to this, you know, waking up with someone, I usually start a day planning the tasks I have to do. Even if we do part now, I want you to know I hope you will come back to me tonight. I had a great time last night, Frederick, and I hope you had, too.'

Well, love was a bit much to ask, he knew that. But at least Simon really liked him, and wanted to make love to him again. Frederick wanted more but he would take anything Simon was willing to give.

'You have given me a lot of respect, Frederick, I appreciate that. There hasn't been a distance between us, as I might have feared. And I knew you were strong but I didn't know how strong, and yet I never felt anxious. Just loved.'

Oh how Frederick loved him already, the perfection of him, the care with which he expressed himself. It was easy for Frederick to forget he was a servant, but it was obviously impossible for Simon to forget his lover's status. Well, if Frederick were to have his dearest wish there would be plenty of time to sort that out. From now on, he would do whatever was necessary to be close to Simon, use all the standing and power he could muster to stay with him. He knew he had a certain importance in London, but unfortunately not of a kind to impress the Darcy family, especially if his friends' unsavoury habits would ever come out. For himself, Frederick had never enjoyed them much, he didn't care for the company of women of that sort, and drinking spirits was out of the question with the secret he had to keep. He was almost ready to give them up, although he couldn't imagine ever giving up his friends, the same friends who would undoubtedly repudiate him if they knew their friend and leader fancied men. Well, from this day on just this one man, who needed an answer or he might think Frederick felt insulted. Better not say something sentimental, or he might feel pressured or worse, hunted.

'I'm glad to hear you say that, dear Simon. I know I'm strong, and my passion did almost get the better of me a few times. I'm glad you didn't mind.'

'I never knew I had so much passion myself,' Simon observed, more than a little contemplative. 'You gave me that. It felt so good to just let go, knowing you can handle anything I could give you. I already liked you, but now I think I could easily come to love you. Frederick, I never expected a man to be so tender, let alone a gentleman of your reputation.'

What was Frederick to do but be frank and show as much of himself, of his love, as he still could, after years of secrecy and keeping up appearances?

'It is difficult for me to show my real feelings, Simon. I've been all by myself for so long, I've hidden my true nature from such an early age. I'm glad you noticed my efforts, though I admit that this one time it came almost naturally.'

Even if Simon tired of his plain admirer, at least he had given Frederick this magnificent feeling, the certainty that he could surrender his heart and soul to another human being. And maybe he would be able to accept the offer and love Frederick in his turn, knowing the gentleman was as vulnerable and even more lonely than he was himself.

A slender shape snuggled close to him and embraced him, and they kissed, not passionately but tenderly, and feelings of love and admiration threatened to overcome Frederick's usual composure.

Another kiss and again those two hands on his cheeks proved Simon looked right through him, and Frederick didn't even mind.

'Will you give me a chance to reciprocate? Tonight, after the wedding? The halls will be busy until late, maybe you shouldn't try it in your dressing gown this time in case you get caught by some maid. I'm afraid Mr Darcy expects me to be punctual this morning since Mrs Darcy's sister is the bride, although I'm aching to lay my hands on you again I really have no time to make love right now.'

He wanted to see Frederick again! But he was right that it was dangerous, better give Robert the night off to indulge in some punch in the common room, and make his way to the back fully clothed.

'Thank you, my love, for wanting to see me again. I will be there, tonight, waiting for you to return from your duties. Can I have one more kiss to tide me over?'

'I think we can do better than that,' Simon said, laughing merrily, and he lay right on top of Frederick and took him in an intimate embrace. After some serious kissing and rubbing against each other, Simon sat up and looked intently at his hairy, massively built lover, so much so that Frederick started to feel slightly uncomfortable about his own plain appearance when Simon was so flawlessly beautiful.

'You gave me the best night of my life so far, dear Frederick, and I am going to think about you all day. Your hard muscle, your sheer masculinity, your tenderness, even your perfume. Though it's hard to remember a scent.'

He really meant that, apparently he didn't see a stocky, ugly fellow but rather Frederick's masculine essence, which even Frederick himself didn't doubt he had. If Simon was attracted to his male strength, even Frederick could see his own attractions. But they paled when faced with Simon's golden hair, his pure pale skin and his boyish grace. Though he was clearly an adult man and had proven himself to be a fearless and ardent lover, as eager to learn all the tricks of pleasing a partner as to let himself be pleased.

'As I will think of you all day, the most beautiful man in the world in my arms, allowing me to touch him and kiss him and love him.'

Now Simon felt a bit uncomfortable, why did Frederick insist on belittling his own attractions? He couldn't wait to lie in those arms again, surrounded by another's body heat, savouring that exciting scent. So he took a leaf out of the gentleman's own book and observed, 'It's quite a burden, you know, being handsome. Women always notice me, maids, superior staff, even ladies. And I cannot bluntly tell any of them how little I care for their attempts to draw my notice, or they will make my life a misery. Have done so in the past. But I suppose my pretty face did draw your notice as well as theirs, so maybe I should be grateful.'

'I'm sorry for anything bad that ever happened to you, Simon. And sometimes I do wonder how much of what we see as beautiful is really decided by society instead of us. Well, if you can spare me another kiss or two, I'm not going to keep you from your duties and see to my own instead. And remember, I will be thinking of you constantly.'

As would Simon be of the robust man in his arms, but he didn't say that out loud. He was well on his way to falling in love and still not entirely certain he should risk disappointment and even exposure for a gentleman who seemed barely aware of his own privileges.

His body was of a different opinion than his mind, though, and so he thoroughly enjoyed the short exchange of intimacies that followed. When he had checked the hallway and safely and stealthily lead Frederick to the front of the house, he returned to his little room with his heat still intact, and decided to keep it just like that, enjoy it even. It had been such a long time, and never with someone he could really give himself up to, he would enjoy this heady feeling for as long as it lasted and if Mrs Darcy found out, he'd trust her with the truth.

But he needn't have worried about being late or being found out, had ample time to dress and even break his fast and greet Fanny and the other staff before his master rang for him. And Mrs Darcy wouldn't be in a state to notice any changes in Simon since the house was in an uproar both in the back and in front: a thick snow had fallen overnight and even the short drive to the church would be quite a hazardous undertaking. Poor Mr Bingley and Miss Bennet, what if their carefully planned wedding couldn't take place because of the weather? They had waited so long for this moment.

Convinced that Mr Darcy would find a way to ensure his friend's wedding proceeding as planned, he tried to convince Fanny to do nothing less than her best for both her mistresses.

'You've known me long enough to know I never shirk my duty, Simon!' the maid had replied, more than a little insulted, though Simon hadn't meant to patronise her.

'After that little competition last night I suggest you may step up your own efforts a little: you know Miss Bennet can never be matched in natural beauty, it is impossible that I could ever make the mistress outshine her sister with her being the bride on top of everything else. I've heard her dress is an absolute dream as well, although the mistress is certain to have the more fashionable choice Miss Bennet has the figure to make any dress look just perfect.'

Here Fanny looked at Simon askance, as if she'd gone too far and knew it. But Simon knew she was right about everything she had blurted out and even about what she had refrained from saying.

'Out with it, Fanny, I can guess what you are thinking but I want you to say it.'

Good, despite Simon officially being the ranking servant, Fanny was not afraid at all to criticise him. As long as it was merited.

'The master is as handsome as any of the gentlemen, and still too many of the staff chose Mr Grenfell's looks over him. Susan pointed him out to me yesterday and he is not at all as handsome as Mr Darcy. He has perfectly good features but there is something almost aggressive about his stance and his eyes are so cold! And frankly, his valet made a good effort but he is clearly not as brilliant as you are. So why didn't Mr Darcy outshine him? You did seem a bit absent all day, you're not still sulking about that little embarrassing trifle, are you?'

That was almost insulting, but Fanny getting inquisitive would be even worse than Mrs Darcy noticing anything amiss.

'No Fanny, I'm not. I must admit I'm still getting used to that side of Mr Darcy being married, but I would not let my own feelings influence my work. I admit I may have grown a bit lazy with the master not being in public much, and I promise to set that to rights immediately. I did not like Mr Grenfell being chosen as handsomest gentleman at all and my hands are itching to get my own back. Which I will, mark my words.'

He indeed did his very best to make his master stand out that day, including convincing Mr Darcy to let him apply a small line of brown pigment beneath his eyes, to make them stand out.

'If it pleases you, Simon, be my guest. I'm entirely in your hands, you know that. I may be married but I'm still vain I'm afraid.'

And rightfully so, he was indeed very handsome, and Simon remembered the love he used to feel for this man. Knowing his master was way above him and not interested in male company in that way, but since then Simon had come to believe he had chosen an unreachable man to fall in love with to avoid having to act on his sinful desires. No man had been as unreachable as Mr Darcy, it was somewhat of a miracle that Mrs Darcy had managed to break the steel armour guarding his heart, so strong had his reticence been to form a bond with any creature beside his closest relatives. Well, and Mr Bingley, but Simon suspected the latter had merely overcome his friend's reticence by sheer persistent friendliness. Who could dislike Mr Bingley? And yet Mr Darcy had always been kind to Simon, he had even acknowledged seeing Simon as a kind of younger brother for years, until he had finally lost his heart altogether to Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

Until now, being with his master under these new circumstances had always hurt a little, but today Simon found himself comparing the noble features to those more homely ones, the brown curls to someone else's straight dark hair, the athletic figure to a shorter but broader shape. Mr Darcy was certainly more handsome, and much better dressed if Simon said so himself, but it was as obvious that Frederick had the more outgoing character. Did he also have more love to give than Mr Darcy? Probably not, in fact Simon could see his master's love for his young bride clearly, and he had always doted on his sister. But it was hard to imagine him being as tender as Frederick had been.

Fanny and Simon both finished just in time for their master and mistress to be called away to speak with the bride and groom, and when they had left the room, Fanny proved her previous criticism had been as unexpected to her as it had been to Simon.

'You have my sincerest apologies, Simon, for my outburst just now. I guess I was afraid to fail the mistress when it mattered most. I have no right to criticise you, and I hope you will forgive me for presuming to do so.'

Well, it had been a surprise, but not entirely an unwelcome one to Simon. Fanny needed to gain a lot more self-assurance if she wanted to become a personal maid permanently, and speaking her mind to a fellow servant was a good beginning.

'Never mind, Fanny, you were totally right. I did fail my master yesterday, but I think I made up for it beautifully just now, didn't I?'

'I'm glad you're not angry. And yes, Mr Darcy looked stunning, I was so proud to belong to the household of such a handsome and good man. I cannot believe Mrs Darcy praised you in such a familiar way, and you reply so easily, Simon, you do not seem impressed by her at all.'

'I suppose I've never known my place, and Mrs Darcy is so young and so playful it is difficult for me to defer to her when she speaks like that. I have good hopes she doesn't seem to mind my lack of obeisance, even though she has made her position in the household in general clear from the start. I hope she even enjoyed my rantings today. She looked at least as beautiful as her husband, my dear Fanny, I really admire what you did with her hair and everything else.'

'But it was mostly your doing, wasn't it? You chose the dress and the necklace and the hat.'

'Remember when she let you practice in London? Compare that to now? You really outdid yourself today, Fanny. No-one will even suspect she is wearing woollies and boots underneath her dress. I admire our mistress for living as pleases her, and I admire the master for encouraging her to do it. Now let us tidy up and go find out whether there will be a wedding to celebrate today.'

Maybe he could catch a glimpse of Frederick if the entire party was making ready to go out, it usually took quite some time to gather such a large group of people and Frederick would be at the heart of it. Looking plain and slightly portly because of his valet's incompetence, but Simon knew better now. Underneath those drab clothes hid a magnificent male specimen, physically strong, dominant and passionate but also kind and incredibly tender. The memory of his lover's feather-light caresses and kisses caused Simon's heart to thump in his chest, and he took his time hanging out Mr Darcy's dressing gown and shirts and polishing his shoes and boots to hide his flushed face from Fanny, who fortunately had plenty to do herself and was not the kind of girl to gossip whilst hard at work.

Half an hour saw them finished, just in perfect time to find the ladies and gentlemen gathering to put on coats and hats to go to church for the wedding. If indeed it could proceed despite the snow, which Simon doubted.

He made his way back to the servants' quarters purposely slowly, though he was eager for news about the wedding, but he really did hope to see Frederick in the hall. Fanny didn't wait for him, she was always busy with something or other, which Simon didn't mind at all. It meant he could linger a bit in the front of the house without anyone noticing. It wasn't until he reached the door to the servants' quarters, trying to suppress his disappointment at seeing plenty of ladies and especially gentlemen but not Mr Manners, that he realised his facial expression right then probably resembled that of the countless girls and women who had sought his company throughout his years of adulthood. He'd never realised so many of them had been in love with him, hoping to catch a glimpse of his face or a moment of his attention. Frankly, he had thought them a nuisance since they tended to keep an eye on him all the time. Only now did he realise they had real feelings, felt hurt when he snubbed them or merely treated them kindly but distantly. Was it really possible to truly love somebody one barely knew? A month ago he would have rejected the very idea, but now he found himself aching for a plain gentleman he had been planning to keep at a distance. What did he know of love?

As soon as Frederick had seen the snow he guessed there would be no wedding today, and he felt sorry for Bingley and Miss Bennet. But it was a vague feeling, for his mind insisted on staying in a constant state of excitement, and the outside world didn't make much of an impression on it. When Bingley entered the breakfast parlour and announced they were going to church anyway but with just the the happy couple, Mr and Mrs Darcy and the bride's father and aunt, to spare the others the cold and the risk of driving through thick snow, Frederick couldn't be disappointed to miss the ceremony. Instead, his first impulse was to quietly disappear before Miss Darcy and Miss Kitty might notice him, the two of them being the only ones he thought might wonder where he was if he didn't show up in public that morning. With his master away, Simon would be at liberty, and if only Frederick could find him they might spend a few more hours together.

He did feel slightly guilty over abandoning Miss Darcy, but she had Miss Kitty to keep her company and besides, she had her piano, now in perfect tune, she would most likely enjoy a few hours all by herself to put in some serious practise. There would be plenty of time to get to know each other during the festivities that afternoon and the coming days. Of course Frederick's interest in her could only grow with Simon living in her brother's house, but she was very young and obviously totally under her brother's protection. To gain her confidence and the right to stay with the family, Frederick needed to win the brother, not the sister. If she turned out as likeable and as dependable as he expected, he could always increase his attentions towards her. For now, he could only think of a lithe, blond man with the face of an angel.

Before he knew it he had finished his coffee and left the breakfast room, on his way to the servants' quarters, hoping not to meet Miss Darcy or worse, Miss Bingley. The latter was obviously in the market for a husband, and whilst Robert had informed him that she didn't consider him handsome enough to be her first choice, Frederick didn't care for being her reserve either. Of all the prejudices he had against women, in his mind their general meanness was the worst. Of course he had soon upon making Miss Bingley's acquaintance discovered in her a woman who proved not just that one, but all his uncharitable preconceptions about women totally right.

Through exceptional fortune he only met a maid and Bathurst in the hall, and he nodded at the first and exchanged a few words with the latter, freeing him to continue on his way within minutes. But now what should he do? He didn't have any letters of business left to use as an excuse to look for Simon, and he knew the common room would be filled with personal staff waiting for their master or mistress' summons. If he so much as looked around the corner every face in the room would be directed at him, and going through the kitchen again would make an impression on the cook. Was there no way to let Simon know where he was?

Turning towards the door to the servants' quarters the usually so glib Mr Manners still had no idea what to do, except to try Simon's room first. It was still unlocked, but Frederick's hope to find him sitting on the bed, reading, was dashed as soon as he entered. The room was empty, the bed neatly made up, curtains drawn, not a speck of dust or a discarded item of clothing in sight. The lamp on the bedside table seemed to be Simon's only luxury, in an almost bare room with the most frugal furniture it stood out by its beautifully ornamented base and elegant glass cap. It had a broad wick and set at its highest would give off enough light to brighten this entire closet of a room. Of course it was neatly snuffed, and the book lying beside it was as neat, no dog-eared pages or smudges on the cover. Frederick was glad he had taken the time to clean up really well that morning, Simon was obviously not a man to tolerate grubbiness anywhere, let alone in his lover.

The book was a novel from a writer Frederick had never heard of, but then he rarely read novels, considering them more suitable for flighty young people. Still, there was no better way of getting to know someone than to know what they read, and he might as well wait here for a few minutes, maybe Simon would return.

And so Frederick sat down on the narrow bed in which he had spent the best night of his life so far, in the arms of the man he knew he wanted to share the rest of his life with. The book proved rather interesting, it was obviously a work of fiction but not at all as flighty as the usual member of the genre: the main character was an Irish boy slaving on a farm, dreaming of a better life at sea. Frederick didn't doubt he would soon run off to find all the danger and excitement novels were supposed to offer their male readers, but for now the writer described the poor boy's hardships accurately and without even the slightest hint of romanticising. Even for an avid reader like Frederick the style wasn't half bad, and caught up in the story he read page after page to see what disaster would befall the main character.

Until he heard voices nearing, followed closely by the door handle squeeking slightly. As the door opened he recognised the one speaking at that moment as Simon's, and his feelings soared at the very sound of it. Then his heart skipped a beat, in horror, not with love, as his befuddled mind finally made out Simon's words.

'Do come in Aaron, Mr Darcy won't be back for hours.'

Frederick could not say which feeling was more powerful, the sense of betrayal that Simon would replace him as soon as a handsome young colleague offered to oblige him whilst Mr Darcy was away, or his fear of being discovered. The voice in the hall spoke, but Frederick could not discern the words.

'No problem at all, you know they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And I always keep a spare cravat or two in my room for emergencies, though my master has never needed one so far.'

The other voice again, laughing, then replying.

Now it was Simon's turn to laugh, and he stood in the opening of the door to enjoy the result of his allegation towards the other man's master. It almost had to be Bathurst's foolish young man, to let Simon get away with such insolence. For a short moment, Frederick was disappointed over Simon's lack of respect towards his betters, but then the latter looked straight at him and Frederick melted at the look of pleased surprise on his face. Certainly there was love in that look!

It was, however, soon replaced with an expression similar to Frederick's own once they both realised this Aaron would soon have a juicy bit of gossip of his own to spread amongst his peers.

Still trying to hide his shock at finding Frederick in his room unannounced, Simon saw Frederick roll off the far side of the bed with a quickness and agility he had not expected from such a heavily built man. To hide the inevitable bump of his landing and to give his lover time to squeeze under the bed, he elaborated on what the inexperienced young valet had just told him.

'So you really need to keep a spare cravat then?'

'A whole lot of them! I did not at first, but after my master lost several in embarrassing places in town and spoiled others spilling booze on them or having them in his way when he was sick after overindulging, I took care to keep plenty in reserve. Neither washes out, you see. I'm just glad I've never had to clean out blood as yet, some of the others have tales to tell...'

That was all very interesting, but by now Simon had regained his composure and he really did want to spend some time with Frederick if he could. Hopefully the foolish young valet was better at tying knots than keeping his mouth shut, or showing him a new way to tie a cravat would take ages. The folding and pleating would have to wait, he had no starch or iron in his room anyway.

Taking care to keep an innocuous conversation going all the time to hide possible creaks of his bed or the floorboards holding Frederick hostage between them, Simon quickly and efficiently showed Aaron his favourite ways of tying cravats. It would have been more convenient to demonstrate on a third person, and Simon wished they could have used Frederick as a model, but that was simply unthinkable. Still, Aaron had Simon to practise on and Simon could demonstrate on himself and check another's work from the different angle. Finally, after about ten minutes, the young valet had mastered the knot.

'I see how you did that, and I want you to know I voted for your master to be the handsomest gentleman, not Grenfell. I admit they are a close match in features and stance, but you are the best man by far so your master should have won the title.'

The boy seemed inclined to sit down on the bed and chat a little more, but Simon knew that was practically guaranteed to expose Frederick, it would be such a tight fit for him down there that parts of him might bulge, and if not he would get hurt by someone sitting down on the mattress and pushing its frame into his body. He had to think of an excuse, and quickly!

To have him away from Frederick was the most important thing, even if he had to spend some time with him elsewhere to avoid suspicion.

'Do you want me to teach you how to fold a cravat to fall in waves?'

'Is that what you did with Mr Darcy's this morning? I didn't see it but Timothy went out especially to see what you had done today, he expected you to make an effort after yesterday. He said he had never seen anything like it, though he'd never admit that to you. I'd love to learn how to do that, my master would love that style more than anything, he likes things plentiful.'

'Fine, I will show you. We'll need starch and an iron, they keep it in the store room, I use it often.'

'You mean I have to starch and iron where the maids can see me?'

'Of course, we can see them while they're ironing, can't we? We may have to wait for our turn, they're always busy with so many visitors.'

Could it be true that Aaron felt his dignity would be hurt by doing household work in public? He had to be really good at it, Mr Bathurst always looked perfectly starched and ironed, that couldn't be the maids' doing. Well, Simon didn't feel lessened by being a master with an iron, and since he seemed to have the advantage here he was going to press it.

'I love working where the maids can admire me, don't you?'

It was obvious what the young valet thought of that.

'Yes, but they all moon over you anyway because you're so handsome! Not even the personal staff will dream of calling you out on doing women's work or even dare think less of you. I bet you draw a crowd of women each time you make something special out of a piece of cloth. But I'm too young and too new at this to risk being caught, I'd never live it down. You know I'm always around these fellows, they know everything. With your permission, I'll heat up my own iron in my master's room when he is out, some day soon? Will you show me then?'

How could Simon say no to that? It was just perfect.

'It's fine, Aaron, I will do that and gladly. Well, then, I suppose we're done here for now, I think I'll take some time to prepare for the ball this afternoon.'

Aaron nodded and made ready to leave, Simon didn't doubt he would spend some more time on practising in private.

'Thank you so much, Simon. You have quite the room here, I have to share mine with Timothy and it's barely this size.'

'My master has been a regular visitor for more than a year, I suppose they merely gave me the room I'd always had. I'm sure you have a better room in your master's place?'

'I do, yes, but we are hardly ever at home, we're always off to London or to one of the other gentlemen's estates. But of course that makes my life a lot more interesting. Mr Manners' man doesn't like being on the road, but the rest of us do. Well, I'll leave you to your activities, thank you again for helping me out!'

As soon as the door fell shut behind him a voice underneath the bed commented, 'I know Robert would prefer to be in London with his family, but I can hardly stay put to please my valet, can I? Can you please help me? I'm afraid I'm stuck.'

And indeed it was quite a task to free such a bulky man from under the bed, fortunately Simon kept his room spotless or he would have been coated in dust. But when he was back on his feet, Frederick did not take him in the loving embrace he expected.

'I'm so sorry to have forced myself on you in this way, Simon. I nearly got both of us in serious trouble. It was arrogant and foolish, I really need to learn to be more careful if I am to...'

He was about to say more but suddenly stopped, which was for the best since Simon was running out of patience: Frederick needed to stop seeing himself as undesirable, but mostly he needed to take Simon in his arms and kiss him.

'I've missed you.'

As Simon said this, he realised it was true. He had missed Frederick and was incredibly glad to see him take trouble and a certain amount of risk to see him again. How long had they been apart, a whole two hours?

Strong arms taking him in the wished-for embrace, Simon rested his head on the broad chest, smelling the familiar, manly scent through several layers of exquisite cloth and an expensive perfume. He heard himself sigh with pleasure and knew that he had somehow lost his heart already to this proud gentleman with an unexpected tender side. It was still most likely he would have his heart broken when Frederick moved on after the wedding, but that couldn't be helped. For now he would relish the love between them and what would be, would be.

Frederick, meanwhile, was relishing Simon's total surrender to his touch. Afraid to spoil the moment by making obvious physical advances he merely held his prince tightly in his arms, wishing he would never have to let him go. After what seemed an eternity of just standing there, he led Simon to the bed and they sat down together. As always when he had difficulty coping with his strong feelings, he resorted to humour, hoping Simon would forgive him for breaking the mood.

'You must be the tidiest man alive, my love, I spent minutes wedged between your floor and your bed and my coat is still spotless.'

'I'm sorry that happened, I was completely overwhelmed, I just couldn't think of anything else to get rid of him.'

'And here I thought you were inviting him in to test your newly found knowledge of the male anatomy on someone more your own age.'

Simon was not insulted, but he was surprised.

'That boy, my age? I haven't been that age for years, if ever. He is talented but he just doesn't know when to hold his tongue. And I think he exaggerates to make his life seem more interesting than it really is. I took him with me because some of the others were giving him a hard time for not being popular with the maids, and because his master isn't very handsome. I thought I'd give him a little edge on his colleagues.'

'That is very kind of you Simon. But I did wonder why you would show so little respect to his master. Wasn't that a bad example to give such a young boy?'

Now Simon was indeed insulted, so much so that he put a little distance between the two of them. He gave Frederick an intense look that almost made him cringe, suddenly it was as if Simon was a real angel, ready to dispense justice upon a fallible mortal.

'You really have no idea what goes on in the back of the house, do you? You think my hinting at your friends needing an extra cravat for unforseen circumstances is gossiping and leading a young valet into disrespecting his master? How do you think I know enough about their escapades to refer to them? Little Aaron here, and the others, couldn't wait to tell me in disgusting detail. I won't hesitate to admit I was shocked to hear what lengths respectable gentlemen apparently go to to please themselves. I'd never heard of any of that in Mr Darcy's household. Do you really think any of your friends' staff don't know and gossip about it with all their friends? Do you think your friends deserve respect just because they were born rich?'

Frederick was silent, he indeed had no clue the gossip was so bad, how would he ever be able to keep Simon close if other staff knew everything and didn't hesitate to spread tales? If he still wanted anything to do with Frederick after the latter's confessing his feelings of superiority. But Simon didn't stay angry, and instead explained his motivation to draw out other staff to gossip about their masters.

'I'm sorry, Frederick, to presume to lecture you. I was just so shocked to hear of your involvement in such debauchery. I know you didn't avail yourself of the women and the spirits, but I know the real reason why they never appealed to you, whereas the other staff seem to think you're a cut above the rest. If you are, I wonder why you would encourage your friends in their vice. And knowing all this, when I hear Miss Darcy telling her brother and sister-in-law that you are spending a lot of time on her can you blame me for doubting your motives?'

This was a real mess that needed sorting out. His friends would never change, but they might take a little more trouble to check their staff. And Simon was right, if Frederick wanted to measure up to his standards he would have to better himself.

'I've been in knots ever since I heard about your parties, Frederick. I know it's not up to me to protect Mr Darcy's family, he can do that himself very well, but he doesn't know about your friends and yes, about you. Of course I feel obligated to tell him the truth, but do not doubt he will cut all contact and I'll never see you again.'

He seemed to truly regret that possibility, which was the only good thing to come of Frederick's unthinking remark.

'I am the one who needs to apologize, Simon. I love my friends but you are worth ten of them. If I promise you I won't lead Miss Darcy astray will you trust me and not tell your family about my friends' entertainments?'

The very idea of losing Simon was unbearable, he had to do what he could to stop word from spreading to the Darcys. And he had to keep making himself agreeable to Miss Darcy, to procure an invitation to Pemberley, but Simon shouldn't know it was to stay close to him or he might feel hunted. Let him think it was solely to do with Frederick's reputation.

'Do you think they will hear from their own staff, Mrs Darcy's maid maybe?'

'She'd let them know instantly, she has no patience with such goings-on, but those valets are not altogether stupid, they're not telling just anyone. Somehow they seem to want to impress me by gossiping, and you cannot blame me for wanting to know the truth. I even had a personal interest this time, I was very disappointed in you.'

He didn't seem angry that Frederick had patronised him, just that he had accused Simon of gossiping when his lover had been trying to make life easier for a fellow who might remind him of himself a few years ago.

'Will you accept my apology for falsely accusing you of something my own staff is more guilty of? And for talking down to you?'

'I accept your apology, though your personal staff is not to blame here. Robert never says much and never anything personal, and your driver talks plenty but he knows who pays him, he never breathed a word about the parties and even tried to give a hint to the three valets who were so eager to impress me with their tall tales.

And I will not betray your trust in me with respect to my master, but only for as long as you keep your part of the promise: to not hurt Miss Darcy in any way.'

Frederick was pleased, but not to find Simon ignoring the second part of his apology, again. So despite his intense longing to make up for his insensibility with some intimacy he decided to remove a possible barrier between them before it could materialise.

'Simon, I did talk down to you just now. Doesn't that make you angry?'

'I noticed, but there is no need to apologise for something that is as natural to you as breathing. It's just the way things are, and it doesn't bother me all that much. I'm just glad you were willing to hear me when I said that most staff talk about their master or mistress. And whenever I perceive someone as a threat to my own family I will use their staff's vices to gain information, and don't care how insolent or manipulative I have to get. I like you very much, Frederick, but I've known you for days and Mr Darcy has treated me like a brother for years.'

Such faith and such determination, how could he not love Simon more every minute they spent together? And his defiant expression made him more beautiful than ever.

'I promise I will not harm your family, but will you please allow me to make friends with Mr Darcy? I like him and his wife, and Miss Darcy is delightful. Don't think I don't want to get out of this mad eternal hunt for entertainment, but I've never learned how to be a good man. I'll need righteous people around me to give the right example.'

And let it be Simon himself who taught him values. But for now Frederick was warned to tread lightly around the Darcy family, and never to forget that Simon was his own man, to be treated with respect so he would get used to that. Frederick didn't want him to be anyone's servant, he wanted Simon to be his beloved and nothing else.

'You've come to the wrong man, then, Frederick. For I am about to commit a terrible sin and pull you down with me. Literally.'

And the following two hours totally made up for the shock at the start of this meeting. When they reluctantly parted, Simon had carefully put Frederick's shirt and coat to rights, and almost convinced him to switch to pantaloons.

'You will feel like a different man, my love, really.'

But Frederick already did. His heart was entirely Simon's, and as they exchanged a last kiss, Simon really showed some promising signs of returning Frederick's love. As Frederick returned to the front of the house to join the celebrations, some great burden of loneliness had fallen from him: he had met the love of his life, and now his life would soon be complete.