The week had passed faster than Sebastian had realized and he now found himself alone in his castle save for the Phantomhive staff and Cynna. With his children returning to their own lives, Sebastian turned his energy to preparing to take his father's place. Ciel often returned to his mind.

"Mr. Sebastian , are you okay?" Finny asked quietly that evening.

"Yes, thank you, have you finished your chores for the day?" The Prince inquired. The gardener nodded.

"Yes. Have you heard from the young master yet?"

"I'm afraid not. It's only been a few days. I'm sure whatever it is he's doing he's quite capable of looking after himself, there's no need to be concerned."

"Do you really think so, it's just that you seem worried too." Sebastian smiled faintly.

"Finny, there will always be some part of me that worries for him. However we must keep in mind that Ciel was strong enough to contend with my father, frighten him in fact, and if you have enough power to make the devil himself fear you, well, there's not many who would be foolish enough to challenge him."

"I guess not. You're taking this really well, the young master would be proud of you."

"He may be indeed, if I was in fact taking it well as you say." Finny bowed his head.

"I'm sorry, it's just that you- do you want to talk about it, we're all here for you." Sebastian sighed.

"While I appreciate your offer,I'm not sure I'm ready for that, thank you."

"If you change your mind, we'll always be here."

"Pardon Master, but a letter just arrived for you from London, via our carriers." Cynna said placing the envelope in the Prince's hand.

"Thank you my friend. Finny, you may take the evening to yourself." Finny nodded once more and exited the room.

Sebastian examined the writing and smiled.

"My Ciel has written at last." He said happily, his heart leaping with joy at any word from his former mate.

Dear Sebastian,

I'm writing to let you know that my plans have changed. I told you I would be moving back to the manor, but when I got here I realized that there were far too many memories and I don't care for the empty feeling I get walking through.

I find myself thinking of our time together, each room in this old house is filled with memories of our contract days, I remember so clearly the day Rachel and Vincent were born in my room. It made me think of how much you truly love me, and I just felt that I had to write this letter.

I'll be leaving in the morning, I thought about going back to our little Paris, but I know I would only miss you more. Maybe America would be a good place to start. I'll write and let you know where I decide to stay. Maybe I just need to explore on my own for a while. My ship leaves at seven, would it be too hard for you to come and see me off?

I'll be there at four, I have some places I'd like to visit before I go. If you can't I understand. I'll also be writing to our children. Well, I'm sure you're busy, I'll let you get back to what you're doing.

Missing you,

Ciel

Sebastian sank down onto his armchair, his Ciel was beginning his journey and he was Ill prepared to deal with the feelings that came with such a goodbye.

Sebastian glanced at the date in the corner of the page.

"Today. " he whispered. He stood up immediately.

"Cynna my friend, my Ciel needs me, please take care of the staff, I'm not sure when exactly I'll return, sometime tomorrow perhaps."

"Of course, Sir. Do be careful. I will oversee the care of this castle and all its inhabitants personally. Best of luck master." Cynna patted Sebastian's shoulder before starting toward the servant's quarters. Sebastian wasted no time in departing, hurrying to change into the Butler as he rushed down the cobblestone road.

"I shall do much more than say goodbye to you, after all, what kind of mate would I be if I allowed you to suffer this pain, fear not my love, I am on my way and you will not need to miss me tonight."