Chap 13
The royal chambers were as opulent as the Myfanwy but Ianto was unable to settle as he paced the silky carpets with frustration.
Deep burgundy and gold, a touch of pink that will have to go and as for the towels. Well. Not for this drama queen!
Ianto stopped pacing and snorted at the pun.
Jack had not spoken to him since the meal last night and this morning when the staff had started to move him and his few belongings to the Queen Regent Wing he started to feel the enormity of the situation.
He had avoided his parents and spent the day examining his new home instead. Although it was more suited to a woman Ianto could see the potential. He could make this space his own.
He had rejected the footman sent up and instead chose his own clothes for the evening meal.
Is this how it will be? This bonding of convenience?
Ianto sighed as he pulled on the shirt his sister had gifted him last birthday. With a determined set to his shoulders, Ianto left his bolthole and headed for the dining hall. Let the game commence.
Entering the dining hall Ianto headed for Jack only to find Jack's sister, Clara in the seat next to Jack. With a slight sting of confusion Ianto chose a seat across the table and tried to keep up with the buzz around the table.
"But Jack, are you sure?" Clara was saying, "He's so … well … boring."
"Clara, not now! I do not need your advice!" Jack growled wishing she would give it up and return to her seat.
A fat man nodded his agreement and Ianto frowned at the wobbling chins.
"What about love? Isn't one arranged marriage enough for you?" Clara pushed.
"Jack, you loved Sofia and I know you feel like she will never be replaced but what if one day you see a beautiful woman that could warm your bed and your heart but you are in this loveless bond of convenience?" Clara continued unaware of the hush that had fallen as Ianto had entered and sat opposite her and her brother.
"You see how he wears those black boring suits and keeps hiding in the shadows. He's nothing like you!" she whined.
"Clara please, I don't need this!" Jack sighed looking across the table to find Ianto's pale face staring back sadly.
"Well, he could at least try to smile instead of looking so dower!" Clara sniffed.
"My sister is dead and I cannot even attend her funeral because of the "Loveless bond" I am apparently forcing your brother into thank you very much your highness!" Ianto said quietly as he rose from his chair "Excuse me if I am stale and unappealing. Perhaps you can swap opinions with Lady Hallett."
"Ianto, stop!" Jack yelled but Ianto fled the room amid excited whispers.
"Damn it!" Jack swore as Clara realised what Ianto had heard and groaned.