A/N: Hey everyone, sorry for the last minute update, but I wanted this one out of the way. Had two reports and tests upcoming in the next week but, I managed to squeeze this out. Apologies for any grammar mistakes or if the quality seems compromised! As for reviews, I'll answer them when I post chapter 25, but until then, enjoy the continuation of the Future AU: Summer Edition.

Disclaimer: I don't own Kuroshitsuji nor will I ever. Everything read not included in the manga are my ideas and characters alone unless mentioned otherwise.

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Into the Future AU

Summer cont. - Rachel's POV (1st)

"Hey, Rachel, why don't we ride that one?"

I looked towards the rollercoaster ride Red pointed excitedly at as we stood in a conveniently fixed spot to observe the slow ascent of a few cars loaded with people up the slope before screams preluded to the climax of the ride which preceded with high arches and gut-dropping heights.

I could feel myself pale, and as much as I willed myself to stay unaffected, the Steel Eel's daunting horror of self-advertised heights was enough to deter me.

"Nein," I muttered.

"Hm?" Red looked back.

"No." I frowned a bit when I smelled amusement from the gentlemen surrounding us before fearing the dreaded question I knew would be asked.

"Ara~ Is me assistant afraid of heights?~ Hihihi!" His high-pitched cackling warded off some of the surrounding people observing with us, some looking at us disdainfully and annoyed, others creeped out.

I sighed. At least most people here aren't as hot-headed to start something idiotic like confront him. Besides, he hasn't actually done anything… Yet.

Only in Texas, I thought wistfully.

"Sure, whatever. If you'd like to ride it, I'm more than happy to look after anyone's personal belongings."

Vincent's brow arched before he peered up at the ride again, absorbing the excitement, fear, and trepidation of the riders before half-smirking. "Seems like fun," he commented lightheartedly. "Say, Diedrich, would you be interested in joining me?"

Diedrich scoffed. "In case you forgot, we just ate. And I'd like to keep the contents in my stomach in my stomach."

Vincent laughed it off easily. "Oh please, we've watched enough shows for it to settle. Surely you wouldn't want to miss the opportunity of a lifetime~"

"Tch, as if. Surely, there are more interesting things this time has to offer that doesn't involve me risking my life." He crossed his arms as if though proud for making such an eye-opening discovery.

Vincent only raised a brow again before pointedly looking at me.

I shook my head. "As you can see, if the rollercoaster truly was a danger to the consumer, do you think anyone in their right mind would want to profit off of it? Obviously, the ride has been tested for safety by professionals, otherwise it'd be closed off."

"Well, that's not counting the accidents, Rachel-san~" Red interjected, mouth quirked cutely.

I rose an eyebrow at her. "Hence why it's called an accident."

"Hmph, I still stand by my point." The German stubbornly looked away as his English counterpart chuckled.

"Very well, I suppose that leaves Undertaker, Miss Red, and I. So, shall we?"

A few minutes later found Diedrich and I standing under shade in one of the trees as we watched the cars carrying our trio up the gigantic slope before ever-so-eloquent screams overtook the peaceful scene.

We had been silent ever since they'd left, and as we were both holding onto personal items, didn't necessarily have anything to talk about until a thought popped into my mind.

"You know, for an old man, Vincent has got more stamina than you."

And as expected, Diedrich gracefully choked on his saliva. "What's that supposed to mean?!" He consciously wiped his mouth with a handkerchief to preoccupy himself.

"Oh, I dunno, the fact that you two are about the same age yet he's got the energy to brave a ride in my time." I barely made an effort to hide a small smirk. So it seemed that my double entendre wasn't lost on him.

He glared hotly at me, cheeks still a shy pink before straightening again. "Hmph, I just know my limits."

I shrugged. "I'm sure you do."

It wasn't lost on me that our group consisted of good-looking men and pretty women, and that was aptly justified by the trail of admirers we left behind. God forbid we have Undertaker expose his face or else we'd have an actual fan club on our heels.

I cringed at the thought as I waited for the trio to conclude their ride. It wouldn't be for a while now.

"So, I've been thinking…" He started gruffly, looking away as if it killed him to talk to the opposite sex.

I deadpanned. "Hm?"

"Are you, in some way, offended… by my presence?" He crossed his arms defensively.

My brow quirked. Offended? Why? "What makes you say that?"

He shrugged. "It's how I perceive it."

My face blanked. "I don't like most people if that's what you're asking."

His brow twitched and he looked at me, annoyed. "Well, I especially feel that anytime I'm around you."

I rolled my eyes. "Oh please, if I really didn't like you, did you think I would bother to talk to you?"

He paused. "But what about Phantomhive? You don't seem to trust him."

"I don't trust anybody."

He scoffed. "Apparently you do if you still live with the Undertaker."

I glanced sideways at him. "Un and I have a business arrangement. I can leave anytime I want."

"Hmph. Then what about that eccentric friend of yours? Zero or whatever his name is."

"He's a different matter."

"Oh? So an exception?" He was looking at me like he'd known he hit the jackpot.

I returned it with bored glance. "He's my partner. Of course, he would be."

"Tch, keep thinking like that. Eventually, you'll find yourself alone if you keep it up."

"I don't need to hear that from you."

We both huffed as we turned away from each other, and conveniently right on time as Red, Vincent, and Un approached us.

"Ne, ne, Rachel-san, did you see us? Look, I bought us a picture~!" She immediately attached herself to my arm before shoving said picture into my face, showcasing their expressions.

Ironically, Undertaker's hair blocked the majority of people behind him because of the descent but it also made his bangs expose half of his face while Red and Vincent were having the time of their lives.

Speaking of, said bluenette didn't seem to need to catch his breath either. "Hey Vincent, what did you think of the ride?"

He looked at me a bit caught off-guard before thoughtfully looking up at the ride. "Rather intense, but exhilarating. It's unlike anything I have experienced."

"Of course it would be. And you, Un?" A commotion was almost starting up at the photo booth, and as I'd feared, Undertaker's face seemed to be the center of it all as people started looking at our group, especially Un.

"Hey, who's that guy up there?"

"Oh, that one. His hair was pretty annoying, but look at his face!"

"Oh yeah, his face looks handsome!"

"But, ew, his scar!"

"Who cares? I'd ride that. Where is he?"

"Is he a model? I've never heard of him before, so maybe he's new!"

I deadpanned, hearing the lieu of compliments and half-insults begin to increase and I grabbed Undertaker's arm before addressing the group. "Hey, did you guys want to try another ride? In the meantime, let's start heading out. We're attracting quite a bit of attention."

I was already tugging on Undertaker's arm to leave, disgruntled at all the mixed feedback that I'm sure he himself could hear. "Deary, are you quite alright?"

I looked back to find him smiling gently, as if amused by my concern. "If those people find you, they wouldn't leave you alone. Or, they'll try to find some way to use you for their gain. It's better to just keep your distance and stay unnoticed for the time being."

"Hihi, well now, I appreciate the thought, love~"

"Shut up."

"But, I'd like to know the real reason we're escaping~"

Damn, he can read me too well.

"It's just uncomfortable to me hearing people talking about you like that. That's all."

He hummed but said nothing more until I'd lead us to a farther location where we stopped to take a breather. As everyone else started getting their bearings, I immediately thought of something before pulling out a beanie and pulling it over Un's head.

"Here, so that way it decreases the chance of your face being exposed." Although he snickered, he made no complaint.

"Hey," Diedrich gruffly interrupted, "what the hell's this ride?" He had a mixture of horror and daunt on his face, leading me to believe that he'd finally laid eyes on the Great White ride.

"That would be SeaWorld's infamous attraction: The Great White."

"That seems a bit too unsafe." He watched worriedly at the cars that were secured to the rail only by the top.

"Well, that's the charm of the ride. Believe me, there's scarier rides than this. It's a bit more intense than the Steel Eel, but same excitement. Anyone up for it?"

Red was already taking off her stuff and handing them to me.

Vincent chuckled. "My, quite enthusiastic for these sorts of hobbies, no?"

"Oh yep, I absolutely love these kinds of rides. Rachel hates them, though, which sucks, but now that you're here, it's not so bad. But next time, we're bringing Theo." She looked pointedly at me before looking back at Vincent sweetly. "So, did you want to join me?"

I suppose the eagerness in her eyes made it hard for him to refuse.

"I suppose one more can't hurt. Diedrich?"

Said German looked absolutely affronted with the idea. "Hell, no! No way I'm putting a toe in that thing!" He crossed his arms and turned his back, as if that would erase the image from his mind.

"Diedrich, this may be your one and last chance to experience something like this. Plus, you're young-ish, so you should have no problem."

"And if that thing leads to my death?"

I looked at him. "I promise you, on my honor, you're safe."

Apparently that convinced him because he huffed, scratched his head, and begrudgingly took a step towards Red and Vincent. "Fine, we'll meet up later then."

I nodded before taking a seat on the brick borders in the shade for some obscurity from the crowd. It didn't take long for Undertaker to join me by my side.

"Neh, love, I haven't seen you once enjoy a ride since we got here~" He pouted, poking at my cheek. "When will you go?~"

I swatted away his hand. "I'm not usually one for rides. In case you haven't noticed, just having shows and being around people I don't mind are more than enough."

He giggled. "Perhaps, but I'm talking about you, now."

I looked at him. He was actually serious. As in, really serious. I had a feeling he wanted me to go on a ride, even if it meant doing a kid's ride. "Well, if you want me to go on one so badly, there's one that just opened recently. We can check that out while waiting. All we have is just a backpack anyway."

I was about to sling it over my shoulder but then Undertaker grabbed it and slung it over his instead.

"Oi!"

"Hihi, what kind of gentleman would I be to allow a lady to carry such a burden while I walk scotch-free, hm~" He then grabbed my hand, tugging it. "Come along, dear. The new ride surely can't be that far, ne~"

I blinked at the bizarre turn of events, and although I had the map in one hand, I had been expecting him to let go. But he didn't. "Um, Un? I'm gonna need both of hands for this."

He looked back before wordlessly taking one side and opening it up for both of us to view. "Ah, just right around the corner~ Perfect~"

"You know, people are going to think we're a couple."

"Hm? Why's that~"

I held up our conjoined hands.

"Hihi~ A friend cannot hold each other's hand?"

"Well, between a guy and a girl, it's suggestive or something."

"Heh, perhaps, but I should think it's doing more good than bad~ After all, some of the stares have lessened."

He wasn't wrong, considering most men would've been bothering me by now if it weren't for Undertaker. He cut quite the imposing figure and his appearance was intimidating if he wanted to be, so they were wards against strangers who'd want to bother you.

"Hm."

"Is this the place~?"

His hand stopped pulling but didn't let go, and the line wasn't actually that long.

"Oh yep." The lack of screaming for once already reassured me I wouldn't have to worry over gravity-defying heights.

"This seems far more tame than the others, dear~"

"It is."

He chuckled. "Well then, shall we?"

I nodded, and minutes later, we were busying ourselves watching the various screens displaying rescue efforts and info on a variety of sea animals. "I'm sure it won't be as bad as the other two."

"Hihi, I'm only wondering how the German is faring~" He smirked. He imagined Diedrich would be holding his stomach from all the twists and flips the rollercoaster would throw at them.

"Hm, hopefully he still has stomach by the end of today."

"Oh? What's this one? Journey to Atlantis~ Sounds fun, wanna go?~"

I blanked. "That one gets you wet."

He smiled.

"It'll ruin the car seats."

His smile never faltered.

"Fine, but that's the last one. Got it?"

"Your wish is my command."

I rolled my eyes.

The line moved up ahead and we scootched up a bit.

"So? Why the urgency?"

"Care to elaborate, dear?"

"Why are you so desperate to see me have fun?"

He looked at me with the leniency one would expect from a parent. "Merely because I've never seen it, and this is the best opportunity to do so~"

I looked away. "I don't deserve it, though," I mumbled.

Of course, his perfect hearing picked it up. "Maybe so, but then what would you call this?~"

I kept silent. I understood his point. If I really believed that I didn't deserve it, I wouldn't have done anything like this to begin with and there would've been no point making an excuse.

"Therefore, we might as well make the most of today, no? If not for yourself, then do it for me~ Please."

My head jerked up to meet his, astonished that he'd had to beg. Despite the ache in my chest, I simply nodded. Albeit his gentle smile, his worry emanated from every pore, and already, it was beginning to bother me.

Eventually, we were getting onto the car not long after that. The employees had us deposit the bag somewhere to the side along with personal effects before strapping us in.

In essence, looking at the ride, it was basically a mini version of the Steel Eel, but more manageable for me, at least.

My hands tightened on the bars as they were pushed down. A last attempt for safety.

His hand patted mine as he started grinning. "Just relax, dearie, and enjoy the ride~"

"I know that."

"Hihi!~"

With that, the car jolted, slowly ascending our first hill, and once we reached the precipice, we picked up speed.

I closed my eyes the majority of the time, hating the sensation of falling before feeling the seat bruise my rump as we reached the ground and started back up another hill.

Undertaker's laughter was booming, and I took glimpses of his face, so happy and care-free before shaking my head. Sometimes I'd see us ascending another hill or riding down one.

Either way, the ride concluded shortly and we were soon getting off the car and to the photo booths where they'd taken pictures of us. Predictably, he started snickering when the frames depicted us, Undertaker laughing with his arms in the air while my eyes were tightly shut and hands gripping the bar tightly. I only hope I didn't dent it.

"Dearest, why'd you keep your eyes closed?"

I frowned. "Because I hate heights."

He smiled indulgently at me. "Come on, one last ride."

I rolled my eyes in time to hear Red's voice calling me.

"Rachel! I got your text! Why didn't you wait for us?" She was pouting.

"Cuz you were taking too long."

She tugged on my arm. "That's not fair."

"Whatever. We're going to ride Journey of Atlantis next. Anyone who's interested can come along, but be warned, you may get wet."

"Ah! They've even incorporated water?!" Vincent looked absolutely flabbergasted and hyped to go. "What say you, Diedrich?" He clapped his friend's shoulder, and it was then that I couldn't hold back a snort.

His was in disarray and he looked more motion sick than I would've been on a road trip.

"How about we give him a little break?" I suggested, trying to hide my mirth.

"Safe, my ass!" He snapped, glaring directly at me. However, not much of his anger could be riled up due to his disoriented state, and I couldn't find any offense to someone so incapacitated.

"It is safe, just not in the way you think."

"Obviously." His proud demeanor had wilted a bit and I felt a bit guilty for deceiving him, so I handed him a $20 dollar bill.

"Here, go find something to eat or drink. The day's far from over and I have another place you guys would love to visit after this."

"Oh? Is it another theme park?" Vincent's energy levels were definitely unmatched to mine. He would definitely have a blast at any party here, excluding the drugs and sex.

"No, it's a bit more docile than that. San Antonio is known for the River Walk which resides close to the Alamo, a historic site. I'm sure you and Diedrich would appreciate it."

"Very well, then. Let's keep to the schedule then, shall we?"

…

A few minutes later, we were back into the car, clothes a bit wet, but we'd dried off from walking in the sun. We'd all gotten souvenirs from the store not too far from the rides.

"Hey, Vincent, if you want, you can get some souvenirs for your family if you want some. Same for Diedrich."

"Hey, what about me~" Undertaker whined and hung off one shoulder, making me grunt from the weight.

"Yeah, I'm buying for everyone in case you haven't noticed."

Red's eyes lit up. "Seriously? Is there a price limit?" She asked cautiously.

"Nah, I highly doubt we're coming back after this soon, so I'm going for the big plushies. Mainly the orcas."

"Oh? Great, then I'll go for the sharks! I haven't gotten one yet!"

We entered the store and Red immediately bee-lined to the plush area, leaving us four behind.

"Well, what's it gonna be? There's also clothes and keychains or mugs and whatever else along the wall." I felt like a tourist as everyone followed me along the products and checking at the prices.

"Goodness! These are quite expensive!" Vincent was examining the shirts' price tags with wide eyes before eyeing their other merchandise with dread.

I snorted before waving a hand. "It's fine, it might be ya'll's last day here, so might as well make the most of it. There will also be souvenirs in the River Walk, but you won't find plushies like these over there, so." I shrugged before grabbing the largest Shamu plushie hidden in the pile and showing them the tag. "The prices are in American dollars, but also because of inflation, prices have risen, but don't worry about it. I can afford it, since, y'know…" I didn't want to say it out loud, and thankfully, they were bright enough that they I didn't have to.

While Vincent and Diedrich were off exploring what they wanted, Undertaker had taken to inspecting the tub full of plushies, unsure of what to get.

"Still undecided?"

He looked at me thoughtfully. "Hmm~ Which one do you think I should get~" He peered at them, making him seem confused in a charming way.

I tilted my head. "Maybe a narwhal? Or a beluga whale? That way you have something new to show off to the twins. Try coordinating with Vincent. I don't know if the twins want the same thing, but the more variety, the better, in my opinion."

"Hm~ Rather thoughtful advice, my dear. Very well, I shall let the Earl know."

So in the end, I ended up buying my large Shamu, Red's gigantic shark, as well as a Narwhal, Beluga, a Seahorse and extra copies of the shark and orca.

"Just in case Lizzy and her brother wanted some," Vincent informed me.

Then, for the men, a couple of mugs and shark tooth necklaces, and in Undertaker's case, a keychain. Apparently, he'd caught sight of my car keys among the multitude of other keychains and got the idea for it.

"So, River Walk up next, yes?" I shifted the gear to drive as we exited the parking lot. Gauging the energy within the car, everyone looked like they could use some food and a nap.

I smirked, slightly shaking my head. "You guys take a nap. I know just the place for us to eat."

I turned up the music at a low volume as I entered the highway, heading back to my place. The last thing they needed was another crowded area. A To-Go order seemed more appropriate.

"Ne~ Did you have fun, dear~" Undertaker inquired lightly, slouching a bit against the armrest. He didn't seem the least bit affected.

"Hm, I suppose."

His mouth quirked, amused. "So unsure? Hihi!"

I shrugged. "Any outing with friends is enjoyable to me."

He hummed. "So, what have you in mind for our next meal?"

"Well, maybe some steak and sweet tea. It's a southern delicacy apparently, and the restaurant won't be as high end, but the quality is worth the price, in my opinion."

"Ara~ Interesting choice, m'dear."

"Mm, then we can walk it off at the Riverwalk at night. The lights are beautiful, and if we're lucky, maybe we'd have a chance to take a quick tour of the Alamo, seeing as we've got some history buffs in our midst."

Undertaker chuckled. "Sounds about right, dear~"

"How about you?"

"Hm?"

"Did you have fun?"

He smiled. "Anywhere with you is fun, love~"

I deadpanned, looking at him shortly before focusing back on the road. "The hell's that supposed to mean?"

He giggled, poking my cheek. "'However way you mean it to mean'~"

Great, now he's quoting me. I rolled my eyes.

Eventually, I pulled up to the garage and turned in my seat to look at everyone dozing off in the back. I looked at Undertaker to find him smirking and shook my head. "Alright, y'all, we're here. We can head over to the living room so you can relax. In the meantime, I'll ask you what orders you want so I can order ahead and pick them up. Red, I'll be dropping by your house to get some drinks, then we can eat and stop by the Riverwalk. Is that agreeable for everyone?"

"Ja ja, just hurry it up will you?" Diedrich waved his hand impatient, too tired to even get mad.

I snickered. "Sure. I'll have Undertaker come with me while Red gets the rest of situated. Atticus will help you."

Red looked a bit confused, but agreed amiably, and in half an hour, Undertaker and I were on our way to pick up the food.

"My, seems today came with quite the price tag~" Undertaker slyly smiled.

I shrugged. "For people like me, its no loss."

"People like you, ne~"

"Well, I'd rather spend for evenings like these than spend them on myself. So, I don't mind."

"That's quite considerate of you~ Is this to make up for all the lives you've taken?~"

Ah, so that's what he was getting at.

I was silent for a bit. "In a way. Really, nothing I can do will change anything, so doing things for others is my way of retribution. My death, however, will even the debt."

Undertaker's smile thinned. "You're still on to that."

"It's a harsh reality for anyone in my occupation."

"Then why not simply escape?"

"If you think I could, don't you think I already would've?"

He quieted, letting my words sink in. "So, then, there is price."

"Yes."

The atmosphere weighed a bit, but he recovered quickly. "Ne~ So, why did you bring me and not little Red along, hm~ She looked rather disappointed, hihi!"

"Mm, knowing you, you'd probably snoop around in my house, so to prevent that, I had Red stay with them. One, so they can settle in, and two, I trust her." We pulled in to the parking lot of Longhorn Steak House

"Hmm, more than you trust me?~"

I deadpanned. "I'm not sure how you want me to answer that. I've known Red since I was a kid, so, of course, I trust her. My trust in you is different."

"Oh~ Yet you would accuse me of snooping in your house to find out more about you~" He pouted and crossed his arms, childishly looking away.

I sighed. "So what, you're saying you wouldn't do it?" I raised an eyebrow at him. C'mon, you bastard, prove me wrong.

His head angled towards me so I could see his profile before he smirked. "Very well, I'll concede on that point. By the by~ we're rather early, aren't we?"

"Yeah. They'll send me a text or a call once delivery's ready." I leaned back against the seat, turning up the volume a bit as some Joji tracks started playing.

"Hihi, such odd tastes you youngun's have~"

"So you've said a million times…" My eyes closed, and I must've drifted off into sleep because next thing I know, a sharp nail was poking at my cheek.

"Dearie~ the alarm's gone off~"

I flapped his hands away before answering the call.

"Good evening, ma'am, your food is ready for pick-up."

"Alright, we're coming in, thanks." I hung up before motioning to Undertaker. "Kay, let's go."

With quick succession, I paid for the food before leaving with our meals. "Alright, next up is Red's house. We'll pick up some drinks there as well as some other stuff before heading back. And don't touch the food." I could see him eyeing the take-out hungrily, even his stomach was rumbling. "And if you drool, I'll make you lick it up." I clicked in my seatbelt before feeling him pull my cheek.

"Hehehe, my assistant's so strict~" He said this in a low voice as though it would fluster me.

I blankly stared at him before smacking his hand away. "Seatbelt." He acquiesced with a chuckle before we were on our way to Red's house.

All throughout the ride, Undertaker's stomach whined for sustenance and I maintained a straight face.

"Can I just have a quick bite~"

"No."

"Not even a nibble?"

"No."

He pouted before staring at the window.

It wasn't long until I arrived at Red's house, darting in to grab scotch and various others. Since I'd ordered in a manner that would make our dinner seem like a buffet for everyone to try out something new, some variety in drinks would also help. I had more than enough soda back home. The only reason I kept liquor out of the house was to deter Jace from sneaking in any of his stupid parties, so he'd have to purchase alcohol in order to do so.

Drinks in hand, I darted back to the car, handing them off to Un. "I'll have you hold these and put the food at your feet since we got some extra guests that Red's been taking care of for me."

"Oh? And who would that be?"

"You'll see."

I moved the bags and placed them between Undertaker's feet, and with one last warning about not touching the food, ran back to find my beloved pets.

I clicked my tongue. "Alaska, Kip, I'm here!" I heard a howl and some excited barks before an Alaskan husky and a border collie ran from the hallway from one of the rooms to tackle at my legs. "Aww, who's a good girl~ You too, Kip! Good boy, good boy!" I patted their heads, Alaska doing her gibberish that all huskies are prone to while Kip jumped around like a caffeine-addict.

It was with great rejoicing that I forewarned Red to have the dogs asleep for the morning so it'd be easier to leave. However, I planned last minute that I might as well take them for a walk at the River Walk, 'cause why not?

"Alright, you two, follow me, that's it." Locking the door behind, I walked to my car and opened the back door where they jumped in excitedly before taking note of Undertaker who'd seen everything from the rearview mirror.

I paused. Dear God, he'd seen me doing that to the dogs.

I shook my head. Ah, never mind, who cares at this point.

"Alright, Un, meet my two pups, Alaska and Kip. Let 'em sniff your hand so they can get acquainted with you."

He giggled, wiggling his claws as they sniffed and licked before scratching their ears. "Ara~ Quite a handful, ne~"

I shrugged. "Could be worse."

With that, I shifted the gear in reverse before heading back to my house.

Undertaker was still fascinated over the fact I had pets. "When did you get them?" Kip had warmed up to him quickly enough to allow Undertaker to rub his stomach, but I was more concerned with the food.

"Whoa, watch the drinks."

"Hihi, got it~ So, how long have you had pets?"

"Well, I got them about three years ago when they were still pups. Both of them were a gift to me, ironically enough."

"Oh? How so?"

I blanked. Neither was a topic I was comfortable with. "I'll tell you sometime."

He blinked, looking over at me but thankfully remained quiet. He resumed petting Kip who whined softly, contemplating to himself.

Eventually, we pulled up onto the driveway before unloading the food and drinks where Red greeted us in the garage.

"Oh! You got Kip and Alaska! Who's a good boy? Oh yes, you are! Aren't you such a cutie~" Red proceeded to gush over them as Alaska walked into the house while Kip pranced around her playfully.

"Oi, playtime's later. Help us unload since I'm sure everyone's starving." I held out a few drinks for her to take as she mock pouted.

"Oh Rachel, that's just an excuse for you to eat~" She smiled mischievously then, holding the bottles. "Also, I invited Theo since I felt terrible she couldn't join us earlier! That won't be a problem… will it?"

I looked at her blandly but faintly annoyed. She knows how much we can't stand the other but still tries to get us to meet up?

Sighing, I shook my head. "What does it matter, she'll be coming either way. Just let her know that if she's late, there'll be no food for her."

Red's phone pinged and she pulled it over to glance at it before squealing. "Ooh! She just got off work, so she should be able to come in a quarter of an hour! Come on, hurry it up, slowpoke!" With that, she hurried to the door to set the table, Kip following close behind.

I stared after her soullessly. She does realize that she's the reason we're being slow, right…?

An arm slung itself over my shoulder, and some of Un's white hair dragged over my face, making me blow at it. He chuckled, leaning on me a bit. "Quite the cheerful one, no?"

"You don't say."

"I wouldn't have expected her to be your friend~"

"Me neither." Although my tone was monotonous, he still looked at me curiously, the why burning in his eyes. "I was the one heavily against it in the first place, but she insisted, so here we are."

"Are you two, perchance, courting?"

I blanked. "You're fucking kidding, right?"

He grinned. "The dynamic of your relationship seems like it."

My face fell, immediately whitening. "They don't think the same, do they?"

"We don't think what the same?" Vincent's voice floated from the garage door and I immediately froze.

"Nothing, we're just talking."

Vincent smiled before gesturing a hand inside. "Come, it is about time for dinner, no? Your lovely friend did us the honors of preparing the table, and she informed us of another guest on their way?"

I nodded, making my way to the garage door when Undertaker suddenly snatched the bag of food from my hand and darted inside. I blinked before looking back at Vincent whose shoulders were shaking with mirth. "Hahhh, whatever, Red's talking about Theo. She should be with us in a bit, but for the meantime, why don't we enjoy dinner?"

Vincent beamed. "But of course. Ah, and furthermore, Miss Red also did us the favor of giving us a house tour along with, what was it, a review on appliances?"

I raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, I'm sure you had fun with that."

We both got seated at the table, and I was surprised to already find the meat portioned and spread out, the remainders still spread neatly on plates with even labels on them.

"You went all out, didn't you?"

Red and Atticus beamed.

I smirked, grabbing my napkin and placing it in my lap before reaching for the side dishes. Since our guests were unfamiliar with the choices, I got two of each, so there were bowls of mashed potatoes, baked potato, steamed broccoli, corn on the cob, etc.

"Goodness, surely you didn't need to buy this much!" Vincent actually looked alarmed at the proportions and magnitude of the dishes.

Red grinned. "Ho ho! Take the opportunity when you can or else your German friend might just gobble it up. But first, prayer. Rachel-san?"

She held out a hand to me and I stared at it before looking at her unamused. "You know I don't participate in those."

She frowned before sternly setting her brows and grabbing my hand anyway. "Anyway, I'll lead." She solemnly bowed her head and everyone else followed suit as she began softly. Sometime in the middle, I felt a clawed hand also grab mine, and then let go when she concluded her prayer. "Alright, let's dig in!"

"Oi, you're planning to eat without me? How rude."

My stomach curdled. "Great, the rat's here."

"Rachel-san!" Red smacked my head, making me glare as the other men chuckled before directing their attention at the newcomer.

"And you must be the infamous Theo, no?"

The once-blondie-now-green-haired-witch stood at the center of the kitchen, sucking on a lollipop as she gazed at the scene before cracking the candy with her teeth and sneering. "Hah, so Ms. Goody-Two-Shoes has amassed a harem of her own despite ranting on me for being a hoe."

"Heh, at least they're honorable men compared to that cheap-ass, cheating, rat ex-boyfriend of yours." I leaned back against the chair to glare at her cooly before looking away.

"Why, you-" Her nostrils flared as she walked up to me threateningly.

"Theo! Hold on, she's not serious, right, Rachel?" Red looked pleadingly at me to fix the situation as she held back Theo.

"Serious? Of course I am. But of course, one who sleeps around wouldn't understand that much. Now then, rather than make a spectacle of yourself, why don't you sit down and behave like a good rat." I grabbed a fork and stuck a piece of rib-eye in my mouth, savoring the flavor. Ah, it's been far too long!

"Che, and the so-called vegetarian's partaking in meat? What a disgrace." She flicked her napkin over her lap, miffed as though having Red sit between us wasn't enough of a buffer.

I shrugged. "Better to indulge once in a while rather than too much or else it begs to question a lack of character."

"Tsk! Keep your opinions to yourself, bitch."

"Same to yourself, wench."

"Alright! That's enough! You two were supposed to make up since you haven't seen each other in so long!" Red cried, tugging at each of our arms.

"Like I said, Red, I wouldn't have minded extending it permanently."

Theo prudently looked away. "Hmph, isn't that what everyone in your life did to you?" She smirked at me arrogantly.

I calmly regarded her before holding a hand out to all the other occupants at the table. "Surely your eyes haven't gone blind or I would have serious concerns on how you drove here." I watched a vein pulse on her forehead, but seeing Red looking down dejectedly kept me from going any further. "But whatever, we can continue this later. It's a disgrace already to fight when there's food on the table."

Seeing as Red perked up, dinner went along with no further consequence aside from the usual bickering and teasing.

"So, what's up with all the middle-aged men? Has your taste soured lately?"

I snorted. "Way to offend my guests, Theo. Couldn't be prouder to call you my friend."

"Anyhow, in terms of appearance, they just showed up here. Same way I just came back. According to Red, I'm considered missing."

Theo snorted. "Hah! What gets me is that you're so pathetically introverted that life had to drop men into your life so you wouldn't be lonely!" She collapsed with laughter, audaciously loud and mocking.

Everyone was looking at her bug-eyed before shifting to me. I merely wiped my mouth with the napkin before looking at her coldly. "At least I don't have to open my legs to keep them around."

Her laughter cut short as her honey-brown eyes snapped on my silver ones. The uncanny silence had everyone fidgeting uncomfortably. It was a few moments before she sniffed and looked away, muttering, "Whatever."

I shook my head. "Anyhow, is everyone ready to go to the Riverwalk?" Everyone seemed pretty content with full stomachs. "We'll just need to put away the food then we'll go."

"Sounds good to me!" Red sprang up on her feet, happy to do anything and started collecting dishes.

"Anything we can do?" Vincent was smiling innocently.

I sweat-dropped, usually uncomfortable with having guests do chores, but I guess they wanted to be helpful. "Sure, you can assist Theo with dishes. She'll show you the mechanics of it. As for Un and Diedrich, well, just do whatever you can."

An hour later, we were all piled into the car, me designated as the driver again. Heading downtown at night usually wasn't something I was comfortable doing, but given that most everyone here knew how to fight assuaged my worries a bit.

"Ara~, it's quite bright, no, Diedrich?"

He snorted. "Phantomhive, it's just electricity." Apparently, the wonders of the 21st Century wore out quickly with this one.

His colleague smirked. "Well now, at least it would make it easier for the ladies to like you since they can see your rather stunning features."

"Oi! That's hardly appropriate! Know some shame!" Ironically, it was his cheeks coated in a light blush.

"Alright, guys, we'll just walk around a bit and see the Alamo, and depending on how tired y'all are, we'll head home after we go around. Sound good?" I parked in one of the lots close to the malls.

"Whatever works best for you, dearie~"

I nodded.

"Rachel, I'll pay for the ticket so wait here." Red was out the door before I could say a thing.

"Alright, once Red comes back, we'll be on our way."

"That's great and all, but why'd ya bring the mutts?" Despite the term, Theo had been lavishing pets on both my dogs.

"Well, I haven't seen them in a while, so why not."

"Alright, Rachel-san! Here's the ticket, just leave it on the dash and we'll be good to go!~"

With that, we set off, meandering on the sidewalks as our 19th Century escapees peered into windows or marveled at the lights.

"My my, they've invested the area to be a tourist attraction, no?"

"Well, yes and no. It is a tourist attraction, but it's also a nice place to just relax and have a walk."

Undertaker hummed, smiling and waving at the children who would look at him curiously. "My, that's nice to know. Sounds like you partake in such activities often, ne~ Hihihi!"

"I suppose."

"Hey, let's head to the Alamo while we still can."

"Uh, Theo, I'm pretty sure they're closed by now."

She shrugged. "At least they get to see it."

I rolled my eyes. "Alright, why not."

"Ne, Rachel, let' ride on the gondola! That looks like so much fun!" She peered over the bridge at the people seated on gondolas as their tour guide blared information into their speakers.

"Meh, I just want a nice walk. You go with Theo and the others. I'll stay here."

She pouted. "Oh, you're no fun!"

Undertaker snickered. "Worry not, m'dear. I'll personally see to it she experiences fun~"

She gasped. "Really? Oh, that's wonderful! Rachel-san, I didn't know you two were so close! Are you keeping secrets from me?" She mockingly pouted.

I sighed, closing my eyes. "Where he came from, I worked as his tenant, hence why we're familiar with each other. But that's pretty much it."

"Hmm, either way, it's comforting to know." She smiled gently before catching up with Theo, blabbering again about the gondolas.

"Seems she cares a great deal about you~"

I nodded. "And that's why I didn't want to be friends in the first place."

Undertaker chuckled, using his index finger to bring my chin up so I would face him. "Even so, it's a privilege to have someone worry about you. Not many have the opportunity."

I nodded. "Well, you have a point."

We walked on further until the Alamo came into sight, the grass bordered off. As expected, we were late, but we could still see thanks to the lights.

"Welp, we made it here. Now what?" Theo crossed her arms, looking at me as though it were my fault we were late.

"Well, why don't we split up? I doubt the gondolas will allow dogs onboard, so Undertaker and I will stay behind and you four ride the boat. And if we get separated, we got our phones to contact each other."

Theo's brow rose. "I'm pretty sure they'll allow dogs on board. Just need to work on your charm, that's all."

I glanced boredly at her. "Yeah, whatever. I still want my walk."

"Then, let's regroup here in about an hour and we can explore the stores if we have time?" Red bounced on her feet, excited at the prospect of shopping.

"Sure, and if they want any more souvenirs, let me know."

"Yay! C'mon Theo, let's go! The lines are long and we have no time to waste!" Immediately, Red began tugging on Theo's hand who reluctantly went along while Vincent waved at us.

"Well then, we'll be seeing each other in a bit. Come along, Diedrich~"

"Ja ja, I'm coming." He glanced back at us before following suit.

"Well, that's that. Let's take the stairs that way you can actually experience the River Walk."

Undertaker laughed. "As you say, m'dear. Lead the way~"

Comfortable silence lapsed between us as the humid air clung to our skin. Thankfully, it wasn't suffocating or too moist, so we could go without sweaters.

"Ne, love, how come you didn't invite Zero-kun? Surely you're not embarrassed to be his comrade, no~"

"It's not that. Merely, I can't allow contacts in the underworld to mingle with innocent people."

He smirked. "Is that so?"

"Mm, it's less complicated that way. Zero understands, so it's fine by me. And should they meet, he knows what to do."

"Ara, that's comforting~"

"If you say so."

Our walk had very little trouble, which put me in a good mood. Usually, walking around with Alaska and Kip would be hard since so many people loved to pet them on the head, but thanks to Undertaker's imposing presence, he served as a good deterrent.

"Say, Undertaker, since you know where I live now, in the future, will you still stay in England? Or come live here?"

"Heh, well, my roots run rather deep there, dear~"

"Don't you hate the monarchy?"

He smiled. "Hate's a strong word, love~ Rather, the people and the place makes a nuisance rather trivial, so I don't mind."

"Hm."

"Ne, ne, why do you ask~ Did you want me to visit you?" He smirked haughtily, amused.

I snorted. "Do as you please, I'm not the lonely one here."

He chuckled. "We'll see."

A/N: Chapter 25 will be posted tomorrow hopefully, and please take no offense to any of the content within the chapter. It's simply how Rachel interacts with ppl she dislikes intensely, so I found it crucial that it give you a hint to how she is in her time. Anyhow, I hope you enjoyed the Special (finally done!) and look forward to the next installment.

04/30/19