~Chapter 3: Arguments and Prejudice, Topped With A Little Bit of Mud~
Arthur was now currently in a situation that was the exact definition of the word 'awkward.' 'Awkward. Causing or feeling embarrassment or inconvenience.' Yes, this was truly awkward. Ever since their 'fateful' encounter in the parlor with Alfred calmly requesting that he and Arthur hold a meeting in his office, he had then found himself to be sitting on one of the chairs that was set across the Viscount's desk. They had been silent. Completely silent. For about… ten, straight minutes. The blonde nobleman had simply sat himself down on his chair, leaned back, crossed his legs then crossed his arms. Blue, analytical eyes stared right at the Briton, most likely judging him for all he was worth. Well then. It wasn't Arthur's fault that SOMEONE wasn't paying attention to introductions. In fact, if the Viscount had actually bothered to learn who Arthur was in society, then he would've dealt with this moment at the ball. And not only that, but it would have been a lot LESS awkward because that was a social ball. Not a job employment.
Sometime during the extensive silence, the Governess wondered just how much of a surprise it was to the Viscount that his new employee was male. Then again, was Arthur going to be able to keep the job and become the 'new employee'? It was hard to say. Alfred's expression was unreadable. He sat there with a blank face and eyes that were merely studying him for all he was worth. It was starting unnerve the Governess. What was he thinking? 'Does he think I'm not good enough? Hell, I probably am not… The man didn't even know I was a male until he saw me! That would be a big enough shock for anyone!' Arthur's mind was racing, jumping to conclusions as well as severely doubting everything. He made sure that no family ever hired him without knowing all of the possible details about him. Male. Twenty-two. Good Governess. Plenty of good reviews from previous families. And… if they really wanted to know… then, Homosexual. Of course, usually he was rejected on the spot by just the word 'male.' Proper families wanted 'proper' Governesses and Arthur was apparently not 'proper' enough. Then, if they weren't already perturbed by his gender, then the title of homosexuality turned them away even quicker. His host families truly depended on the reviews and recommendations of the other Governesses, as well as the family's slightly-less-lax lifestyle.
Also, the more understanding the family was in hiring him, then the more generous and compassionate they were in general. Arthur tended to always get nice families – a fact that he was not complaining about whatsoever. And though they seemed to be quite rare, the Brit simply took whatever came by with open arms.
Yet there he was, sitting across from one of the most famed noblemen in England…who had no idea what he was getting himself into. What was Arthur supposed to do? He was of lesser stature, and due to their unfamiliarity, he was unable to speak up as he would have with Sir James. That would've been unacceptable, and he would have been most likely thrown out. Not that he would've really cared, of course, seeing that he'd head straight for the Pinkertons again and curse a certain Spaniard along the way. However, before the Governess could gather up his courage and even emit a small cough for attention, (not that he didn't have any; the Viscount's eyes had never strayed once from him) the blue-eyed man spoke up, his voice brisk and with a no-joke tone.
"So you are a Governess." Came the words, more of a statement than a question. The Briton blinked at first then almost sighed in exasperation. Was that the best question the Viscount could come up with after so many long minutes of waiting silence? Nevertheless, it was not exactly his place to say otherwise, and all he did was frown slightly, and nod his head slowly, uttering a clear 'Yes.' The Viscount nodded just as slowly, and silence immediately sank back above them, as the nobleman's face portrayed nothing else but judgment. Arthur was growing impatient. He was fidgety and tired, and sitting in this chair being mentally examined was going to give him a headache. He cursed the world's rules for not allowing him to speak up, and all he was able to do was turn his head away to stare out the window just behind the man's head. Might as well not even bother looking, if he wasn't going to speak.
But more words came once more, and the Viscount cleared his throat and shifted position, causing Arthur's eyes snap right back at him. "Why?" Was the question next asked.
Arthur was starting to think that maybe, just maybe, this Viscount was more of an idiotic prat – pray he never say that out loud – due to the man's short and blunt questions. Why did he have to explain his story? He was a Governess because he wanted to be. That's it. Why waste one's time on asking for the reason behind someone's occupation? They had chosen to work that way because they wanted to. Simple as that. "Because I have always enjoyed helping and aiding children in their young and growing years." He replied almost immediately, the answer being too automatic for his own good. It was one that he repeated to almost everyone who asked, and that wasn't a friend. That was all they needed to know.
At the answer, the Viscount nodded again, this time putting his fingers to his lips, his elbow still propped up against the arm rest. "Interesting." He murmured under his breath, but it was loud enough to be heard from both parties, causing Arthur to raise an eyebrow.
"Is the work of a Governess really that interesting, sir?" he retorted, then regretted it immediately, for the small amount of sass had leaked out into his voice. He could feel his neck heat up in shame and he was about to quickly bow and utter an apology when Alfred shrugged, as if he didn't even notice the rudeness.
"Not necessarily." He said, not smiling, yet not frowning. Alfred merely tilted his head to the other side, still studying the Briton who had resorted to letting out a small 'A-Ah?' in response. "It is more of the fact that I have a male Governess in my room, rather than a female one, that is interesting."
Arthur blinked once more, mentally surprised that he wasn't being reprimanded. However, he had detected the sense of sarcasm underneath the Viscount's words, causing the frown to twitch further down on his lips. "Oh, my deepest apologies, Viscount," He said back with even more sarcasm to boot, seeing the man's eyebrow raise. "That I am not of the 'proper' lot of Governesses, who, yes indeed, are all female." This time, Arthur bit his tongue harshly in order to mentally scold himself at speaking out again.
"I never said that there was a proper, nor improper lot for Governesses…" the Viscount had said, trailing off a bit in confusion. He wasn't an idiot, and it was quite obvious that Arthur was getting very riled up, though he didn't show it. Why? Alfred was merely asking questions. Harmless questions, actually. He had really only said eight words.
The only problem with being a sarcastic asshole at heart was the fact that once Arthur got started, he kept going until he had proven his point. "Oh no, of course not." He all but spat, levelling with the Viscount's surprised look with his own of irritation. "But any proper English nobleman would only want the best of the best, and although I won't deny that I have great skill in what I do, I am not female, and therefore, I don't fit in your image of a 'proper Governess.'" He spoke back with bitterness lacing his voice. The Governess was honestly quite surprised that he hadn't been hit yet. Perhaps that was coming next.
The Viscount was taken aback; however, and he stared at the Governess who dared to speak so openly with him. Were all Governesses in England like this? He wouldn't have known. He had never hired one. Yet here was this male Governess who continued to yell at him as if they were familiars. Which…he supposed that they somewhat were, but now, in this situation and setting, it was as if they were complete strangers. But one thing did strike a growing sense of frustrating curiosity in the Viscount's mind and he all but slammed his hand on his desk. It wasn't out of anger, but instead out of regaining back order. "Excuse me." He barked, and the blonde before him immediately closed his mouth, though his eyes remained to steam. "Is it a common thing for respect to be lacking in the attitudes of Governesses?" he said with a voice of irritation, and he watched as Arthur's face heated up a slight red in indignation.
"I'm sorry si-" was Arthur's attempted reply, yet that was quickly cut off due to the Viscount's own rant.
"And what is all of this talk on 'proper' and 'improper' and 'proper Governesses' and whatnot?" Exclaimed the Viscount exasperatedly. "Have you taken a look at my family as of late?" he argued, and the Governess could not do anything more but to nod his head in a bit of confusion. "My wife had left me for some pathetic excuse for a man, my son has grown wild, and I have been forced to attend balls and look for women discreetly just so that I could fix my family's name and find a mother for Franklin!" The man breathed deeply, rubbing his face tiredly with his hand, for just the thought of all that made him instantly tired. "I don't give a single damn whether or not you're proper." The Viscount continued. "As long as you are true to what you say, and you can help guide my son down the right path." He had said, looking up with serious, grave eyes.
During the entire exclamation, Arthur watched and listened attentively for it was about time that the Viscount started talking and telling the Governess what this entire fiasco was about. The blonde Brit had still held on to the fact that one day, Alfred would have to apologize for basically dragging him away from his previous job. "My apologies, sir…" Arthur said quietly, bowing his head just a bit out of expected respect. "I was not thinking when I spoke to you and I apologize for speaking so brashly." Said the Brit, raising his head in order to look into light blue ones that stared at him so intensely; it was as if they were staring into his soul.
With a nod, Alfred thinned his lips, setting his hands back down onto the desk, recomposing his face and emotions. "Your apology has been accepted." He said, and Arthur mentally sighed in relief as he uttered a soft 'thank you.' "However, it still strikes me a question on what you mean by 'proper' and 'improper.'" Said the Viscount, his brows knitted in confusion. "Is it because you are a man?" He went on, "A man with the job of a woman? By the looks of it, it seems that you don't particularly mind. However, perhaps I'm wrong, and you are unsatisfied with your current occupation." Mused the blonde man thoughtfully, trying to pinpoint what was going on in Arthur's head.
"U-Unsatisfied, sir?!" Exclaimed the Briton, genuinely surprised at the notion. "No, of course not." He said with a frown, shaking his head in earnest. "I enjoy this job and the opportunities that come along with it. My gender, I have prayed, should have nothing to do with the fact that I myself enjoy teaching children inside their homes, rather than in a school." He saw the man's eyebrow raise and he pressed on. "My bringing up of the topic of properness didn't come out of spite towards you, Viscount." He said sincerely, feeling a bit awkward with this whole situation in general. If only they had gotten over with this at the ball… "It's just that usually, before someone hires me, they look into my biographies and such, and the first thing that ever comes up informational-wise is that I am a male. I had assumed that before you hired me, you knew of who I was, and what I am." He said, his hands and fingers twitching over each other in unease. It was always hard to explain things to noblemen. They either believed you, or they didn't.
"I see…" said Alfred quietly, nodding when Arthur told his story at reasons. "Yes, I understand your immediate caution, then." He said. Suddenly, the grave and serious look that was upon the Viscount's face during the entire conversation melted away to reveal an apologetic smile that not only reached his eyes, but crinkled the corners of them, revealing his laugh lines. His blue irises glinted behind his glasses and he let out a soft, deep chuckle. "I must apologize myself, then…" He murmured. "For I honestly had no idea who you were. When I returned home that night after the ball, Franklin had found himself in trouble once more, and Antonio had advised me to hire a Governess. He knew one that he said was at the ready, and I was too irritated to even think on it, so I let him go do as he pleased. I had not imagined it would've been you of all people, or that Antonio would bring home a man." Alfred said, his expression now one of understanding and sympathy.
If Arthur wasn't already blown away by the Viscount's intimidation, then he definitely was when a smile appeared on his face. It wasn't the one that he saw at the ball. No, if he tried to remember, it looked like one of plaster. A smile to wear when there were people to impress. This wasn't that smile. Instead, as the Viscount was apologizing, this was a smile of genuine sympathy and sorry.
It kind of stunned the Governess into temporary silence.
"O-Oh, is that so?" Stammered Arthur, after he was able to regain his voice. Alfred's smile was distracting, for they complimented his eyes. Gripping his hand on the arm rest next to him subtly, his returned the Viscount's smile with a small one of his own. 'Damn my homosexual urges...' Was the only thing that ran through his mind. There was no doubt that he saw the Viscount as handsome. Gorgeous, in fact. However, just because he was mind blowing attractive didn't mean that Arthur would set his heart for him once and for all. Plus, the man was straight, and was looking for a wife, and was a noble… and well…A lot of things.
"Well. If you must also know, I was currently employed to Sir James and Elizabeth of Pinkerton, governing their young child Martin, when he barged in at an unruly hour of six in the morning, and demanded I work for you." Arthur recollected smoothly, watching the Viscount's face contort into one of pure horror and panic. He continued on before the man even had a chance to speak, for the expressions Alfred was making were really quite amusing. "And not only did he ask me once, in the middle of Franklin's Italian lesson, but he asked again. Four times." He stressed with a look of complete calm and suave. He mentally congratulated him for holding on to his cool expression for so long.
"Oh god, he did WHAT?!" cried the Viscount, jumping up from his chair in shock, staring at the Governess who was simply sitting down without a single care in the world. "For God's sake, that IDIOT!" he all but shouted, walking around the desk to stand before Arthur, a look of pure guilt in his eyes; evident on his face. "My deepest, deepest apologies for his actions, Arthur. I truly thought he was speaking the truth, when he said you were ready to work." He said shaking his head.
The Briton nearly snickered, but he refrained that in order to look as if it didn't bother him. A nobleman standing before him, while he sat. Well. This was definitely interesting, and he had no intention of changing it just yet. "Don't worry, it truly is fine. However, it was a bit of a hassle whenever he popped out of nowhere to try and verbally drag me away again…" he said with a dramatic sigh, turning his head off to the side just a bit.
The Viscount's frown deepened, for a new irritation had appeared in his chest, and this time it was aimed solely at his best friend. "I will talk to him right away, I assure you." He promised the Governess with sincerity. "And I shall make plans to return you to the Pinkertons immediately." He said, the serious expression back on his face as he had already started making plans on how to temporarily ruin Antonio's life.
"Return?" The Governess had blinked and repeated, turning his head back immediately to look up at Alfred. He was to return? Go back? Wait – the Viscount was willing to give him back after ALL the effort Antonio took in to get him OVER here?
Arthur might have been an ass, but he wasn't a total ass.
"I have no intention in returning, Viscount." Arthur had said, his own brows furrowing as he stood up to stand before the taller man. He watched as the Viscount's face took on an expression of confusion, once again, another expression he noted of.
"I don't understand," protested Alfred. "I had ordered you to be forcibly removed from your previous job, a mistake that cannot be easily forgiven. I simply must bring you back."
Arthur then took on an expression of sheepishness, a small ghost of a smile appearing on his lips as he shook his head. "No, no. I was simply telling you of how Antonio had recruited me." He said, noting that the expression on the Viscount's face hadn't changed. "Sir, your son is quite the gossip and rumor among us Governesses." He told him, and he wasn't surprised when Alfred's face hardened a bit. Of course the Viscount knew. His son was the gossip everywhere. However, he didn't like that thought at all.
"I'm aware." The nobleman said with a bit of harshness in his tone. What, did Arthur gossip about his son as well? The Viscount had no intention of asking what it was they said about Franklin exactly, but either way, it wasn't the nicest fact to know that people were talking bad things about his son behind his back.
"Yes, well, he is also the subject of earnest." Arthur went on, turning the fact around. At the company, they were all definitely eager of course…eager to NEVER work for the Jones family. However, the Viscount really didn't need to know that detail. "Many of us work for families with…difficult…children, and sometimes we succeed, and sometimes we fail. I promise you no offense intended when I say that Franklin is one of these boys that we have heard of that is quite difficult." He said cautiously, watching Alfred regretfully nod. "Therefore, I am all but honored at the chance of being able to work with such a boy, and help him with all my ability. The boy and his family that I had just left were achievements of mine, for Martin Pinkerton has turned into the son that his parents had always dreamed of. Thus, I am eager to work with you and Franklin, if you'll give me the chance."
Arthur's explanation was received by attentive ears and a face that gradually turned from serious to surprise. The Viscount was indeed impressed by the Governess' words and it had struck curiosity within him, whether or not Arthur would be able to achieve success with Franklin, when he as the father, had not. "I see." Said Alfred, crossing his arms, nodding thoughtfully. "You seem to be quite eager to work with my son, indeed." He said, and before him, Arthur nodded, albeit a bit slowly. "Do you really believe you will be able to work with him and make him cooperate?" Asked the Viscount bluntly, still curious on the Brit's determination.
"Yes." Replied Arthur, his expression saying that he was ready to take on anything. "I truly believe that with time, I'll be able to help Franklin Jones."
"Good, then." The Viscount said, starting to walk forwards to towards the door. "Come with me. I shall take you to see him. However, I'd prefer if you had a…test run, with him." Said the Viscount, holding open the door. "A test, per say. For both you and I to see if you are capable."
Arthur walked towards the door, speaking a thank you as he stepped out into the hallway. "A test, sir." He repeated, trying to imagine just what kind of test would be happening. As Alfred let the way down towards his son's room, he watched as the man's blonde head nodded.
"Correct. Fail, and we'll take you home to the Pinkertons. Pass, and you shall start today."
It was silent, save for the quiet 'whish' of the window curtains that were swaying lightly in the breeze. The window itself was open, revealing the soft smell of spring time flowers, and sunlight that filled the room. The ambiance was soft and serene, as the light blue painted room was decorated to look just as cheerful as any other. The bed was already made and the desk was clutter-free. Near the corner of the room stood a brass cage that held three sunshine yellow canaries, chirping around happily. It was open and spacious, enough to fit in more than just a single six year old boy. However, that was also the thing.
Inside the sunshine room, there was no six year old boy.
Instead, there was pure evidence that someone had stripped his bed of all possible linen and tied them together by the corners to create on very long rope. One end was knotted around the foot of the bed and the rest was flung out of the window. If one had looked over, it would've shown a makeshift rope, blowing gently on the wind, leading right down into the garden maze that was underneath Franklin's window.
There were three men in the room, and each had on a different expression, wielding a different reaction as well. Percy was standing by the door way, a look of weariness on his face. This wasn't exactly the first time Franklin had pulled of a stunt like this…however, he had not done it often enough for the manor staff to get used to. The butler was extremely concerned and due to the fact that there was no body on the ground, he was immensely relieved that Franklin hadn't fallen. He stood by, awaiting orders for he knew that the new Governess…Governor? Was here, and it was most likely predictable that Alfred would send the man off to find him instead.
Next was the Viscount father himself, who was standing in the middle of the room, one of his hands planted on his face. It hid an expression of disappointment, frustration and worry, for the fact that his only son had willingly climbed out of a window, two stories from the ground…and he was SIX years old, for God's sake. The blonde truly wondered where on earth he had inherited his adventurous side. He knew that it didn't just appear due to Charlotte's departure, and that it was in the genes somewhere, or else Franklin wouldn't have simply climbed away. But in a moment of irritation, he blamed it on his ex-wife. If she had the nerve to have an affair for about a year or more, then Franklin had the nerve to scale a house.
Lastly, there was Arthur, the only one who had bothered to make a sound at all. "Oh my GOD, did he climb out of here?!" He had exclaimed, rushing to the window and peering down, feeling dizzy just by the height. Arthur was never one for tall places. "I can't see him; he must've run off into the maze…" he muttered, pacing back to the middle of the room, fretting about. "Does he do this often? Is this a normal occurrence?" He had asked, jumping onto a next question before either the butler or the Viscount could reply. The Brit wanted to scold Alfred for being such an unwatchful father, but he wasn't James Pinkerton, and was much more famous. Scolding would probably be never. "Someone must find him, he might get hurt! Oh dear, oh dear…" he said, walking back and forth on the plush carpet, his heavy brows furrowing together in concern.
"Sir Kirkland." Stated the Viscount, trying to get the panicking man's attention. However, Arthur was too far off into fretting, and he instinctively ignored the name. But he did snap to attention when Alfred let out a frustrated little huff and walked forward, clasping the Governess' shoulder tightly, stilling his actions. Was the Governess always this…concerned? Was that how they were trained? Or maybe Arthur didn't exactly have a firm grasp on 'drastic' situations such as these.
The Governess himself jumped a bit when a strong, warm hand pressed on his shoulder. With startled eyes, he looked up into the sky blue ones, before dropping them down instantly, bowing his head a bit. "Oh, my apologies, my apologies…" he muttered, his hands pressed tight down at his sides. "I didn't mean to act so out of order, I was merely surprised and I didn't expect that a child would have the nerve and bravery to do something such as this. I promise it won't happen again!" said Arthur, gritting his teeth. He should've watched his actions, and he should've been careful of his tongue. At this rate, he will never be able to get the job. And if he did, there probably wouldn't be as much trust between him and the parent…it always happened that way.
There was a momentary silence coming from the Viscount, who held on a face and expression of confusion. Percy had slipped away, intending to work on tonight's dinner, and the two were left. One was bowing in respect, the other with one hand on Arthur's shoulder, still looking at him in confusion. Finally, the Viscount opened his mouth, words flowing with a tone of genuine curiosity. "Do all Governesses blather on the way you do?" He asked, pulling his hand away. Crossing his arms, the tall man merely smirked down at the shorter.
"B-Blather?!" came the exclamation, as Arthur whipped his head back up to stare at the Viscount with cheeks heated due to humiliation. No…well. Governesses didn't exactly blather. It truly depended on the person themselves, what kind of socialite they were to be. Some Governesses were cold and strict, speaking conversationally only when needed. Some were warm and parent like, who enjoyed talking to their clients and their children. Arthur was one of these. But…he never thought of it as 'blathering.' "I do not blather!" he protested, a frown quickly alighting on his face. "Is it not human nature to grow concerned when a mere child has taken to climbing out of a window from the second floor? Sir, I was merely worried." He argued.
Raising an eyebrow, the Viscount gradually grew a bit more surprised at how Arthur was so easy to irritate, as well as to snap back at him without a moment's thought. It was obvious that the Briton clearly didn't think before he spoke, and he was quite lucky that Alfred was not a man to kick him out into the street after such harsh words. Nevertheless, Alfred found it extremely intriguing, and he couldn't help but play along. "So then I take it that whenever a child climbs out of the window, you start to hysterically fret and pace around?" He retorted coolly.
A deeper flash of red appeared, followed by the quick words. "Excuse me, sir, but I do not 'hysterically fret' as you so say. Different people have different reactions to problems and I simply grow worried!"
"Then judging by that statement, how do you believe me to be reacting to this problem?" inquired the Viscount. A thought had sparked within him, and he was curious to see how it would go. Due to Arthur's sharp and unfiltered tongue, the answer was sure to be peculiar.
"For the sake of the Queen, are you even REACTING?!" Arthur had all but cried, tempting to throw his hands into the air. The Viscount didn't even seem remotely surprised that his son had disappeared. Was this so often of an occurrence that as a father, he no longer cared? That was a preposterous idea, and one that started to boil Arthur's blood. And due to that anger, every thought remained unfiltered, spilling out of his mouth like a tidal wave. "This is your bloody ONLY SON, and you are merely STANDING there like some prat who couldn't care less about the wellbeing of his child!" he shouted, too focused on his rant to notice Alfred's eyebrows rise in surprise. "He could've bloody died jumping down from here, and we're lucky enough that as a six year old, he has enough sense to make some sort of rope! Unlike his dolt of a father who, instead of running after him in extreme concern, had been standing there like some brainless git who can't differentiate between 'safety' and 'death.' YOU, Viscount Jones, are an awful father, and I am highly disappointed in the way you are treating this situation!" he hissed in an ending.
The Governess was breathing deeply, his words and volume still ringing around the room, his meaning hanging over the pair heavily. His eyes were narrowed deeply so that the green color looked closer to a darker green that emerald. Alfred, on the other hand, was standing still, frozen in shock. Never before….NEVER before, had he ever been yelled at like that. Even with his own parents as a child, he was a spoiled American boy who enjoyed leeching off of his parents for money to buy the latest toy on the market. Even in his growing years, bullies had avoided him, knowing that he could set his father onto them if they ever bothered to pester him. Yes, Alfred was quite the silver-fed man. Yet here was this new man, that he had truly only met for a couple of hours, not even a day, and he was yelling obscenities at his face as if they were not only familiars, but as if Arthur was his boss. Which he wasn't. So finding the nerve to do that was incredible, and judging by Arthur's train of thought, it was all due to his unfiltered mouth.
It only took less than a minute for Arthur's actions to take effect on him, as he realized what he had done, and just what he had said. Stumbling backwards just a bit, his red face had immediately turned pale, and he trembled a bit. He was going to get beaten. He was going to lose his job. He was going to be shamed in the public for ever even thinking those things, let alone say them to the man's face himself. "I'm so-"
"Prat…" said the Viscount suddenly, regaining his words before Arthur could. The Governess, not wanting to cause any more trouble, had immediately fallen silent instead, allowing the man to deal out any punishment needed. His apology was no longer valid, it seemed. "Dolt. Git." The Viscount continued his words, and he looked off to the side as he did it, an unreadable expression on his face. On the other hand, Arthur's was one of purse confusion.
"W-What…?" the Governesses ended up saying lamely, before scolding himself for letting his tongue slip once more.
Turning his head back up to face the shorter, blonde man, Alfred held up three fingers. "Prat." He wiggled his index finger. "Dolt." Then went the middle. "And git." He said, waving his ring finger. "The three, ruder insults." The Viscount said calmly, watching as Arthur's face grew even paler than was humanly possible. "If you're counting the times you said bloody in my face, then it'd be two." He lowered his hand. "Then, there's also calling me an awful father." He added on at the end, crossing his arms and shifting his weight onto one foot as he stared at Arthur with intense eyes.
"Sir…" choked out the Governess, his thoughts scrambling around in his head as he tried to find any sort of explanation. He felt panic overcome his senses, and he wasn't sure what to say anymore.
"Do you speak like this in front of the children?" Continued Alfred, raising an eyebrow. If Arthur was one to swear this much before young children, then the Viscount would have told him to start immensely reevaluating his life decisions. However, he tilted his head a bit to the side, waiting for an answer as Arthur violently shook his head no.
"Of course not, Sir." He said in a strained voice, trying to make amends to his actions by being compliant. It was hard, of course, because he truly did think that Alfred was a daft git. However, he was certain he lost the job. But that didn't mean he wanted to lose his entire career. He prayed that Alfred would show some compassion, and not destroy his reputation among the company. "I treat the children with the love and respect they deserve…" he mumbled.
With critical eyes, the Viscount continued to look over Arthur once more, trying to find out his secret. It was like a flare, of some sort. Fire and passion would leak out in the most extraordinary way, which threw Alfred off guard by the Governess' words. But then, it would immediately hide itself away again, coated with respect and servitude. He wasn't sure, but it seemed to slightly irk the man. "Good." He said with a curt nod, and he restrained a snicker as he saw Arthur's head snap up in surprise at the praise. There was no doubt that the Brit was waiting for punishment, when instead, Alfred had praised him for his restrain on curse words around children. "As for your test, you are to go into the gardens and find him. Bring him back in time for supper, if you can." He stated with a tone of finality, and walked towards the door, leaving a shocked Governess behind him. At the entrance of the room, he stopped and turned back, giving the Governess another quick nod, although he looked off to the side as he spoke. "Your words are not….wrong." He said slowly, pressing his lips into a thin line. "However…just remember to refrain from calling me a prat, dolt, or git in front of my child, if you please." He finished quickly then slipped out of the door way, leaving Arthur alone.
Arthur's mind was in a whirlwind, for a thousand of thoughts were flying everywhere in his head. He couldn't for the life of him understand what the Viscount was thinking. The Governess had insulted him on a level of public punishment, yet Alfred had acted as if he had simply said something mildly strange. THEN, he proceeded to commencing Arthur's test, and leaving him to find his way around the house towards the door that led to the gardens. (Thank god for Percy.) Nevertheless, he was extremely grateful that the Viscount hadn't done anything else to him. He vaguely wondered if there'd be a punishment later. However, that seemed impossible, since Alfred trusted him to find his own son, in a garden maze he had no idea how to navigate through. It was only when Arthur passed by the exact same dog statue next to a bird bath did he regret not bringing some sort of string to help him return back to the entrance.
It wasn't a menacing garden whatsoever, to be honest. Sunlight was everywhere and cast a glow among the roses that dotted the tall bushes. Birds flitted around above his head, their songs casting an aura of comfort in the spring time air. There were also small spots and hidden areas that held benches and vine-wrapped gazebos for anyone who wanted to rest their feet. Of course, it was obviously meant as an oasis for people who knew how to get around the maze in general. There was no point in trying to 'solve' the maze, for if he did, then he would've lost the point in coming in. He was there to find Franklin, and for the first time in a long time, Arthur felt extremely frustrated.
It had been about an hour already since Arthur first entered the maze, and the afternoon sun was beating against his back. He relished in walking nearer to the actual bushes, for their tall forms cast a shadow that he used to avoid the bright rays. So far, Franklin was absolutely nowhere to be found, but Arthur couldn't take that to valediction since it had also turned out that the Governess was walking in circles. And judging by the view from Franklin's room window, the maze was large. Very large.
"Blast it all to hell; let the angels atone for my sin!" Cried Arthur as he stopped for the time being, slumped down on a stone bench. It was a curse that he had heard Sir James use once before, when the man had been too busy with work that he had forgotten his wife's birthday. Needless to say, his sins were atoned for, but definitely not by the angels. "I haven't even met the child yet and already he is to be the death of me…" The Briton had sighed dejectedly, a frown on his lips as he forced himself up to his feet again, intent on starting down the path once more. However, before he could take another step, a scurrying sound was heard inside of the bushes to his side and he immediately tensed, taking a step back. It was a small flurry of dark blue and gold before the object stilled in front of him, right in the middle of the path he was to take.
Franklin William Jones wore a killer charming smile – one that Arthur could pinpoint anywhere. It spelled out so many different words, and the two main ones clashed horribly. It was the smile of an 'innocent demon.' His gold hair was threaded with leaves and small twigs, setting off a rough vibe about him, if it weren't for his clothes and smile. Dark blue eyes seemed to swirl around in their sockets, mesmerizing Arthur just as it had done many others. It was quite obvious that Franklin's 'cute charm' was an understatement. Thin limbs of arms were clasped behind his back, and it was a miracle that his clothes weren't smudged with a large amount of dirt. The small cravat that he was supposed to wear along with his suit jacket was hanging off limply, undone and crumpled, and the dark blue suit jacket that was most likely the pair of his dark blue trousers was missing as well. He was left in a simple polo, yet that was crumpled as well. His trousers had been rolled up to the knees, and as Arthur looked down, he noticed that Franklin was shoeless and sockless, leaving him to run in bare feet amongst the dirt, grass and stone. If Franklin didn't have the background of an uncontrollable child, and was instead seen on the streets of England just outside of Arthur's apartment, well. He almost looked… normal.
"Lookin' for me?" Franklin asked sweetly, politeness dripping from his voice that it so badly concealed the obvious sarcasm and spite behind his words.
Arthur was surprised, though. Of course, it was to be expected that due to Franklin's upbringing in England, he'd speak like the British. However, his American accent was so prominent in his voice that the Governess could merely squint in disbelief and stare down at the American boy in front of him. He looked just like his father, save for the eyes, and Arthur started to seriously wondered if Franklin had gotten that grin from his father, and what it would look like on the Viscount himself.
"I know who ya are." Stated the boy, crossing his arms and standing up straight, his feet just slightly spread apart on the grass underneath him. "At least…I think I do."
Quickly being pulled from his reverie, Arthur straightened up as well and looked at him curiously, raising an eyebrow. It was never good to start off a child-Governess relationship by being the first one to seem intimidating. The child always started off. "Do you now?" He mused; leaving his hands limp at his sides. If he clasped them behind his back, then Franklin would take it that he was being talked down to, and that never turned out nicely. "We haven't even met yet, how do you know who I am?" inquired Arthur with a small smile, clearly amused by the boy's efforts in seeming menacing. 'So far, so good…' The Brit thought to himself. 'Nothing I can't handle…yet.'
"That doesn't matter!" protested Franklin, his brows furrowing to settle into a deep pout. "Papa was saying that he was going to be getting me a new mother. He said she was coming today." He said coldly, glaring at Arthur a bit more, but as the boy continued to stare at Arthur, his expression of intimidation faltered and turned into one of unease and confusion. "And you're here today." He said slowly.
"Mm…that's right, I'm here today." Replied Arthur with a wider smile, though in general, it stayed small. "A new mother, though?" He said, pursing his lips and 'tsking' lightly. "That sounds truly dreadful, doesn't it? I would absolutely hate it if my own father brought in a new mother…" He murmured then watched as Franklin's face grew hard and stormy.
With a little growl at the back of his throat, Franklin's eyes narrowed themselves again and he glared with more intensity than previously. "Stop talking like that. Who are you anyways?" He said, his hands clenching into defensive fists as he let them down at his sides. "I was supposed to receive a Governess today. Who are you?" he demanded in question, and watched incredulously as Arthur proceeded to chuckle slightly.
"Well, Sir Franklin Jones. It's quite the pleasure to meet you." Arthur had said, bowing his head slightly, politely. "I hope that we can work well together, for I'm Arthur Kirkland, and I'm to be your new Governess." He said, straightening back up with a bright smile. Glad that so far, nothing terrible had happened, the Governess stuck out his hand in order to shake Franklin's, allowing the boy to feel older and more 'in control' of the situation. However, just as he vaguely expected, the Viscount's copy looked stricken at the introduction.
"Governess?!" He cried out, taking a step back with horror in his eyes. "But you're a…a GUY." He blurted out, causing a vein to twitch in Arthur's forehead.
"Yes, indeed I am, thank you for pointing out the obvious." Arthur snapped back in reply, pulling his hand away. "But my gender doesn't depict my skills. I will govern for you, granted your father gives me the job." He said, adding that last bit with a tone of desperation. "Now come, Franklin, for dinner is almost ready and your father would prefer to see you at the table tonight." He said, sticking a hand out once more for the small boy.
Franklin pulled away even more, his glare deepening. "I don't wanna eat." He said stubbornly, and darted back towards the bushes. Making a desperate move to try and catch him, Arthur lunged forward, his arms embracing air. The boy had already disappeared back into the roses, God knows how he was able to survive the thorns.
"For God's sake!" he cried, childishly stomping a foot on the grass beneath him as he rubbed his face with his hand hastily. "Franklin William Jones, come out here RIGHT this instant, or so help me God, I will set your father on you!" he yelled at the bushes, but he knew that the threat was empty. He didn't even have to guess that due to the Viscount's lax ways, Franklin had resulted in this behavior. Silence met his words, save for the occasional chirping of birds, and he couldn't help but let out another frustrated huff. "FRANKLIN." He yelled out in irritation, whirling around to repeat yelling the name to all corners of the maze. "FRANKLIN COME BACK OUT HERE!" he shouted, and as he turned around again, he was met face to face with something cold, sticky and…disgusting. With a gasp, his eyes were immediately closed in order to keep the gloopy substance from entering his eyes and he stumbled back, hands immediately going up to try and wipe whatever it was off. From in front of him, he could hear the sweet voice of the little boy that was to be his eternal damnation.
"Oh, shucks, my bad." Franklin cooed, watching as Arthur stumbled around, face covered in black. "That was the mud pie I wanted to give to you to say sorry." He said with a fake sigh. "Now you messed it all up, but at least you have it." He said with a grin.
Arthur could feel the mud slip down from his face and onto his perfectly nice, white, dress shirt. Leaving trails of sludge all over his face and down his clothes, he couldn't even gasp out of fear that more of the mud would get into his mouth. 'THAT CHILD!' he screamed inside of his head. 'How dare he even have the NERVE to DO that to someone OLDER THAN HIM?' What did come out of his throat, however, was a small moan of helplessness as he slowly wiped it the mud from his eyes, allowing him to hesitantly blink. When he opened them, Franklin was nowhere to be seen. He was in the process of wiping the horrid substance away from his mouth to allow him to talk, when all of a sudden, his shin received a harsh kick from the back, causing him to stumble forward. Due to the surprise attack, he ended up toppling over completely, spots of dry dirt and grass follicles stuck all over his face. He was thrown into utter surprise, causing him to not do anything for a few seconds except blink with wide eyes at the bottom of the edge to his right. Behind him, he could hear the cackle of a demon child and the sound of bare feet padding on the grass as Franklin ran away.
It was only after a couple of minutes trying to prevent himself from sitting on a stone garden bench and cursing the child with all his might that the Governess decided to pick himself up and travel back to the house. He walked slowly for the mud had dried miraculously fast, leaving him with a hardened, caked face, and the feeling of sludge drying into rock on his neck and around his mouth. Sure, when dealing with kids, it was all but to be expected that sooner or later, you'd end up with a pair of trousers that had grass stains on it and a white shirt that was now unwearable, but to be greeted in such a fashion was such a disgrace that Arthur was starting to have second doubts on being able to restrain the monstrous boy.
'Perhaps we were all right in the company.' He thought to himself bitterly as he slowly maneuvered his way to his supposed room, as Percy had shown him earlier. 'Franklin is truly a hell of a child. No wonder the Viscount had lost faith in him already…' He went on, but then actually stopped in his tracks in the middle of the hallway, blinking in surprise at his own thoughts. The servants that passed him all made note to avoid making eye contact, not that Arthur was giving them any anyway. 'That's…it though.' The Governess thought in sudden revelation. 'His father had given up on him. His mother had given up on them. None of the servants want to deal with him anymore because they've given up. Franklin had turned into a lost cause, with no one to back him up at all…' It was then that the blonde Brit put a hand to his mouth, feeling the guilt wash over him like a surge of emotional grief. 'Everyone's given up on him. He thinks there's nowhere to turn…no one to trust…' and with hardened eyes, the hand that covered his mouth fell to turn into a fist at his side. "But I won't." He said with a tone of finality. "I will be the one to support Franklin Jones. Damn these pranks to hell, but that boy needs my help!" he all but cried, rushing off to his room.
The servants that were milling around him as he said this exclamation all blinked and paused in their work, turning to stare at him with curious expressions. But it went unnoticed as the Brit had suddenly fled.
Luckily enough, he had only encountered staff people, who didn't really bother with him or question his appearance. He hadn't come across neither the Viscount nor the butler, and for that he was grateful. He supposed that they were both equally as busy as he neared his door, feeling the immediate relief in being able to wash up for good. Pushing open the large, white painted, wooden door, he was met face to face with a simple, yet elegant room… with birds.
Little sunshine yellow canaries flitted around his room chirping incessantly. However, to the Englishman, it sounded like hellish screeching. There were three of them, small enough to look nice, yet big enough to show that there was indeed a mess in his room. One of the birds had even taken the liberty to excrete on top of his writing desk, the little curd hardening up into a disgusting tiny heap of black and white. Arthur stood, gaping, before he finally stumbled backwards out of the room, slamming the door shut. It wasn't that he wasn't fond of birds…but he knew those three canaries just by their appearance. It didn't help that their cage lay in the middle of his room, door open. For it was the same birds and cage he had seen in Franklin's room, just an hour or two prior.
"Governess Kirkland?" came the deep tone of the Viscount from behind him. Said Governess whirled around to face him with wide eyes, and was met with an equally surprised face.
"V-Viscount!" he exclaimed, but then was quickly cut off.
"Good heavens, Arthur, what on earth has happened to you?" said Alfred, furrowing his brows to stare at Arthur, taking in all the mud and dirt that caked his face. The Governess could feel his cheeks heat red in humiliation and embarrassment, but knew that there was no point in hiding it, since the dried mud did that for him.
Shaking his head quickly, he waved a hand to his door. "It was nothing, sir, simply a trip into the flower bush." He said hastily, covering up for Franklin, even though Alfred's expression read that he knew his son was the culprit. "However, there are…birds, in my room." He said lamely, and as if on cue, a small bird had flown near the door on the inside, allowing them both to hear the loud chirping sound of the canary.
"Birds!" repeated the taller blonde, staring at his door incredulously when they heard the chirp. "Why, the only birds in this house are…Franklin's." he said, a face of irritations befalling him once more. Turning his head down to look at Arthur, he was about to clasp his shoulder once more, before hesitation, for there was a large wad of mud on his shoulder. "I'll go find Percy. For now, you may go wash up in the servant's quarters down below." He assured him, then turned promptly to leave, walking swiftly.
Arthur watched the man leave quickly, and without wasting any more time, he left as well. However, he had no plans to wash up just yet. Turning down one corridor, he could see the door of Franklin's room just up ahead, and it was closed shut. There were no servants milling around the area, and Arthur didn't even bother to wonder why. As he stood before the door, he mentally braced himself for the confrontation. He wasn't going to yell anymore, for their introduction was enough for either of them. However, it wasn't always nice to leave some other person in such rude regards. Knocking quietly, he leaned in a bit, hoping that the boy on the other side heard, granted that Franklin was even in his room. "Franklin?" He said, and deciding that it was too quiet to be heard through the thick wooden door, he tried again, and louder. "Franklin?"
It was almost immediately after the second try, did a voice ring out clear as day. "I'm not going to apologize to you, fake-man-mother." came the curt reply, causing the Governess to blink a bit, and step away. Maybe he should've expected something like this to come out of Franklin's mouth. However, he did not.
"Franklin, that's really not-" He then paused, biting his lower lip. The lessons would come when Arthur was for certain that he had gotten the job. Now was simply the time to make peace. "You don't need to apologize, Franklin." He said, speaking quietly, and silence was his only answer. "I merely wanted to talk to you, civilly. That's all."
"How can you talk to me like a civil man if you are working as a woman?" retorted the boy, and Arthur could hear that Franklin had migrated closer to his side of the door, probably to hear him better. "You're such a weird man, how can you even stand to hurt your pride like that?"
Arthur was shocked once more, and it took him all he had to remind himself that he was only doing this because everyone in the world, save for him, had given up on Franklin. Where did such a six year old even learn to talk like that? Perhaps it was his father, seeing that he was the only one who could reprimand such a child in such a manner…using such words. "I am not working as a woman, and it actually helps me hold my pride together, thank you very much." The Governess replied curtly, and was once again met with silence. "It is a job I chose to do because I enjoyed aiding children, and not because I wanted to be seen as a woman." He said with a frown. His statement was also true. Just because he was a homosexual, and a submissive one at that, didn't mean he was going to dress up in gowns and heels, piling on makeup. He was a MAN and he would always stay a MAN.
"I don't like you." Came the stubborn reply, and it was then that Arthur withheld a chuckle. He turned around and pressed his back against the door, sliding down onto the ground until he was sitting, cross legged, with his back against the door. It wasn't the most polite of actions, but he was tired, and there was no one around to make fun of his tight-apartment lifestyle and sitting habits.
"Oh, I don't doubt it." Arthur replied with a small smile, tilting his head back so that it too, rested on the wooden door. "In fact, most children who I govern hated me in the beginning." He added on, looking at the ceiling as he waited for the reply.
The silence was shorter this time as Franklin replied with a haughty tone. "You make it sound as if I'm going to like you later on in the future. Well that's too bad, because I'm not!"
"Mm," hummed Arthur, nodding thoughtfully. He wasn't going to say 'that's what they all said,' for fear of causing another argument. However, he picked the best words he could in order to keep the conversation going as smooth as possible. "You don't need to like me Franklin. In fact, you can hate me all you want. Don't most students hate their teachers?" he asked curiously, feigning innocence.
"Well…sometimes…" came the hesitant reply, muffled by its softness and the thickness of the door. There was a bit of shuffling, and suddenly the words were just as close to Arthur's ear. Franklin had sat down. "I hate all my teachers. The children in school are horrible too. They're all…gits." He said, and Arthur easily tell that Franklin was trying out the new swear word. However, reprimanding was for later.
"Then by no account should I help you start liking one." He said with a small shrug. "Continue hating them all if you please. I'm simply here to try and teach you in a better way than how your current teachers are doing it. We Governesses pride ourselves in knowing that we're better off teaching than these public people." He said, pride hinting at his voice.
Once more, did Franklin not answer until at least a minute or two had gone by. And even then, he didn't address the topic of teaching at all. Instead, he asked about Martin. "Since you are a Governess, you had governed…other children." Came the unsteady question. "How was…the other little boy?" He inquired, surprising the Briton by the topic of the question.
"Martin?" he blurted out, immediately feeling warmth in his chest as he thought about the sweet little boy and his charming family. "He was…" he started off, furrowing his brows as he tried to figure out how to explain him. "Martin was almost like you, when I first met him." He said quietly, and if his ears didn't betray him, he could've sworn that he had heard a small intake of breath coming from the other side of the door.
"Like me? Did he like to run around like me? Did he have a big garden to play hide and seek in? Did he get dirty a lot? How much like me was he?" came the frantic question, and by the sound of his voice, Franklin had turned his head in order to talk clearer into the door.
Unable to resist his laughter, he let out a short chuckle that eventually bloomed into a laugh. Due to his amusement, he hadn't noticed the flash of a blue tailcoat that appeared at the end of the corridor, only to hide itself again. The Viscount was able to fetch Percy, and servants were on their way to catch the birds. However, he didn't see Arthur at the servant's washroom, and he couldn't only suspect that he was at Franklin's room, since that was really the only other place that Arthur knew how to get to. Intending on fetching him, and scolding Franklin, he was surprised when he heard the bright laugh of the Governess, leaking from inside the corridor. He had immediately turned to hide himself back in the previous hallway, listening with keen ears and furrowed brows. Arthur's laugh was…genuine. In fact, Alfred had never even heard of Arthur's laugh before. And yet here it was sounding, with his son.
"Oh, my…Martin." Breathed the Governess, after he was done laughing. It was only after a couple of door bangs and the shouts of 'HEY! Answer me!' did he pull himself together. "Martin was indeed a bad boy like you." He said with a snicker, and the teasing tone was evident in his voice as Franklin let out a small whine. "He loved to run around. In fact, one time, when I was chasing him, he held a frog in his hand, and we ended up collapsing on top of each other… needless to say, the frog got away." He said with a grin, and behind him, he could hear the small 'Aww…' of disappointment. "But he doesn't have a large garden. It's simply a large, open backyard. There's not that many places to hide in if we were to play that game…" he mused, thinking back to the Pinkerton's small but cozy estate. It accommodated the three of them wonderfully. "And yes, in fact, his mother reprimanded him almost all the time because whenever we came back inside the house after our afternoon recess, he was always found to have some sort of scuff marks somewhere on his clothes. There were stains, mud patches, by God, was he a dirty one." The Governess mused, and he closed his mouth when there no words to reply to his from the other side of the door.
"So…he got in trouble a lot? Martin? Did he ever turn into a good boy?" he asked curiously, and Arthur imagined him to be fiddling with his fingers, feeling awkward about the question. It was always hard, wondering whether or not boys were able to be turned 'good.'
Pursing his lips, the Briton laced his fingers and set them down on his lap, nodding. "Yes." He said quietly. "When I first came…Martin got into trouble a lot…I was with their family for quite some time." He said softly, smiling at the memories that flooded in his mind. "But once again, yes. Martin eventually turned into such a beautiful boy. He is actually quite the sweet child…charming and so fun to be around." He added on, murmuring. Behind him, there was silence, so Arthur went on. "And I know you are too, Franklin. I know you're a wonderful boy." He said with a gentle smile, his eyes still straight before him, roving over the wallpapered wall. Franklin didn't answer, yet there were no shuffling sounds to imply that he had gotten up. So Arthur merely sat there, the silence surrounding them.
It was then, that the Viscount decided to make known of his presence, stepping out into the corridor and walking forward. He had heard all that he had needed to, and he didn't doubt for once second that Arthur Kirkland would be able to help his son. In fact, he was positive that the man would. Only would a man with iron determination get the courage to find Franklin once more, simply to talk. And not only that, but Franklin had reacted almost wonderfully. There were no arguments to be heard. Watching as Arthur's head snapped up at his approach, the Governess scrambled to his feet, panic in his eyes. "Sir." He greeted, bowing quickly. "I apologize, for not going to wash up as you said." He said quickly, and they could both hear the small thump and shuffle of Franklin jumping away from the door, most likely to dive back into his bed.
"No, it's perfectly fine." Said the Viscount, smiling faintly. "In fact, judging by how I heard no yelling as I came over, I would assume that you and Franklin had struck some sort of mutual agreement." He said thoughtfully, glancing back at the doorway with a small smile.
"Ah…perhaps we have. Maybe." Arthur replied, looking back at the door as well. Indeed, the Governess had begun to think that even if Franklin vowed to hate him, at least this small conversation was enough to hold back any more mud in his face. "I will go wash up now, if I may." He said quietly, making another bow.
The Viscount returned his gaze back onto the smaller man before him, nodding. "Go ahead. The quarters are just down this hallway and down the stairs." He said, turning to allow the Governess his leave. "Also, once you finish, I would like for you to meet me in my office." He said, a tiny grin twitching at the corner of his lips. He simply watched as Arthur's large brows furrowed for a moment, before straightening back out into a look of respect.
"Of course, sir." He said then turned the corner.
Back in the office, the two men sat across from each other, much like how it was earlier this morning. Arthur sat, trying to look formal, in the seat across from the Viscount's desk, and Alfred himself was lounging casually in his larger chair. "I take it that you found it to be quite the…" he trailed off, his brows knitting as he tried to find the word that would properly describe Franklin and his pranks.
Arthur stepped in quickly, knowing what the man meant. "Yes." He answered, nodding. "He is…definitely quite the handful." He said with a soft chuckle, whereas the Viscount merely replied to it with a small thinning of his lips.
"Mhm. And…what do you think about the ordeal as a whole? That conversation you had with him…does it affect your decision any more than it had when you met him in the maze?" The Viscount asked curiously, pressing his fingers together, steeple-like, and pressing them before his mouth. In all honesty, not only did Arthur seem like a good governess, but he seemed like a curious man in general. His approach on situations like these were so far off from what Alfred or the servants had ever tried, and it forced him to try and imagine what else Arthur was capable of.
"Well…" started off Arthur, looking off to the side as he let his fingers wander to his chin and lips. "I think that this will be quite the learning experience for me." He said with a smile, watching as another smile emerged on Alfred's face as well. "It isn't that this is so different from other children I've governed…" he mused. " However, he definitely is different, then again, every child is." He said and as he spoke, he watched as the Viscount nodded. "But still, I believe this'll prove me as a good Governess, granted that I can break him in eventually." He said with a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck.
Alfred stood up, his head never ceasing its bobbing as he clasped his hands behind his back and he started pacing around to stand by his windows, a thoughtful look on his face. "Perhaps he'll be able to get his act back together again by the time I find a woman." He said, turning his head to look back at the Briton.
The Governess himself tilted his head side to side, a nodding. "That's true. Though we cannot determine when exactly you will find yourself a wife, I can assure you that I'll try my best in order to turn him into a son you can be proud of, by the time she enters this home. "He said with a reassuring smile. It surprised him as well, for he felt that he had grown comfortable in the presence of the Viscount to speak his own opinion on the man's affairs, whereas lower status people like him were not supposed to. Instinctively, as if he were with a friend, he crossed his leg over the other, leaning back with crossed arms. He was thinking about his future work here in the house, and plans on what to teach the Viscount's child next. However, when Alfred turned back around to address him, the taller man was silenced as he stared at Arthur. No proper man should ever sit like that, and in fact, most proper women didn't bother to cross their legs. It was a feminine gesture, only found in deep in the city among the ladies, far from the nobles and their estates.
Without thinking, the Viscount pursed his lips and stared critically at Arthur. "Does your family raise you up to sit like a city slump woman?" he blurted out, before realizing what he said. But he didn't regret it, for it struck him curiosity. This Governess never ceased to surprise him.
"W-What?" stammered the Governess, thrown off by surprise at the sudden change of Alfred's question and tone. He looked around quickly before realizing how he sat, lounging about carelessly, and he immediately threw his leg down. "No, no I'm sorry, I didn't mean to seem so disrespectful." He blathered, his neck turning red once more for the umpteenth time today and his hands began to nervously fiddle with his shirt hem. "I must have not been thinking, finding myself too comfortable-
"No, I was merely wondering what upbring-"
"And I remember that you probably didn't even look me up-"
"Because I don't ever recall a man sitting like that-"
"And of course, I should have informed you right away, before-"
"Not that I am against it, of course, simply curious-"
"That I am a homosexual."
"….What?"
Blue eyes stared intensely into nervous green ones. One pair was filled with surprise and disbelief, the other filled with guilt and extreme anxiety.
'Why didn't I tell him that!? It is only right that every family know exactly who I am before I am hired! God DAMN it all to hell, I'm never getting this job.' The Briton swore incessantly in his head, sweat starting to slick his hands as he swallowed, staring at Alfred's unresponsive face.
'Homosexual? Arthur? No wonder he doesn't have a wife – not that he looks old enough to be marrying – but he is…Homosexual? As in, he as affection towards males? No WONDER he prefers the title Governess…' were the Viscount's own thoughts as he swallowed himself, furrowing his brows and crossing his arms.
Both parties sat in complete silence. The Viscount was waiting for the Governess to fully explain himself, while the Governess was respectfully waiting for the Viscount to speak authority. Eventually, it was Alfred who broke the silence.
"You are…a homosexual." He said slowly, his brows knitting even tighter. Arthur swallowed, nodding just as slow. "You do realize…that your kind is not exactly welcomed in England." He added cautiously, and he watched as the Governess' face paled a bit more from the red that previously covered it. There were many questions in his mind now. Would it be good to hire a man that welcome didn't exactly like? Now that Alfred thought about it, this might even be Arthur's first high-noble job he had ever taken on since he was quite sure many of his other friends would disapprove of a homosexual on the spot. Arthur was probably lucky that England was slowly moving away from executing homosexuals. That was probably why he was still up and about, working.
"I do realize." Arthur said in the calmest voice he could, trying to hide the nervousness that threatened to spill from his voice. "However, my sexual orientation does nothing to affect, nor hinder my work." He assured him. "And before you ask, no, I do not 'convert' my governed children into homosexuality." He blurted out, bitterness hinting at his voice. That was one of the main concerns among many families. That a man like him, spending hours on end with their children, would eventually turn them…gay.
A deeper frown flickered on the Viscount's face as the Governess said that, and he crossed his arms tightly. "I was not implying that whatsoever." He said, the frown even evident in his voice. "I was merely saying that you would do best not to hide that fact from clients in the future, Governess." He said, unable to hide the small bit of bitterness in his own voice. Arthur's face all but fell, for that was a clear sign that he was being released, not that he was employed in the first place. But the Viscount continued on. "I don't fear of you 'converting' my child whatsoever. And I trust that you keep that fact hidden away from most of my servants here as well, seeing as that even if I may accept you, they will probably not." He said, and he couldn't help but snicker as Arthur's face blew into a surprised, grateful smile.
"Sir-" he breathed, but was cut off.
"By now, your room should be all clean of the birds, and I pray that your first night here will be spent comfortably." He said to the Governess, who had already stood from his chair, thankfulness badly concealed in those ever-prideful eyes. "As you are aware," he began to explain. "I am not natively English. I am an American man." He told him, and Arthur nodded, for he knew. "In my home country, we aren't prone to being so prejudice to your kind. Of course, it's a bit distasteful, but we see no drastic problem." He said, and couldn't help but smile faintly, since Arthur's heated cheeks and grateful smile was contagious. "I just want you to do your work well, Arthur. And I trust that you will be able to."
The Governess nodded vehemently, bowing a bit as he kept his head low out of respect. "Yes sir. I assure you that I will do all I can to work to my fullest abilities. I highly doubt you'll ever regret hiring me, Viscount." He murmured, his eyes shining in anticipation as he looked down upon the rug.
"Good," Came the reply. "Then I bid you a good night, Arthur, and thank you for your duties."
Author's Notes:
Oh my god, finally, FINALLY I finished this chapter! Sorry it took so long~ I had the end of the year creeping up on me as well as …other stuff. But regardless, here is the long awaited Chapter Three!
TL;DR: Alfred and Arthur talk about Arthur's governing job, and Alfred says that if he can handle Franklin for the day, he gets the job. Arthur tries to find him, and ends up with a face full of mud, and a bedroom full of birds. Waiting to get that sorted out, he strikes a decently civil conversation with Franklin, before meeting up with Alfred and having a talk about getting the job…and Arthur's homosexuality!
Also, a little note that this chapter is DEDICATED TO: RealSweetPhilippineMango and her friend, because these two gave me the motivation to hurry my butt up and finish this chapter! Thank you two so much for your support, and I'm so glad you like it!
Many thanks as always to my wonderful beta: of the Grigori because you are a fantastic person! Muah!
To my reviewers – thank you all SO MUCH because your words and support make me (metaphorically) cry *^* I love you all so much~ Here are a few I'd like to respond to~
[[ Caah-s: YES! Yes, you have the right musical in mind. ;) thank you so much, and I'll make sure to do you and your musical-love proud! Of course, it won't follow the exact story line (since there's only one child, and who would want an exact copy?) but I assure you it'll be just as interesting.
Poulukka: oh dear, you made me reread your review for a couple days straight because you made me giddy and so happy that *squeals* I don't even know what to say anymore! I'm glad you love the setting, characters, and straight up everything! xD Thank you! Thank you so much for your words, and support and everything! Stay beautiful, love! ]]
And a little selfish request of mine to end it off! Don't forget to favorite and review the story! I'd love if this got more attention when people search it up, so if you like the story, please do click! Thank you!
(man, I should really settle on a permanent pen name, shouldn't I?)
Glenn Agape, signing out!