Disclaimer: Hetalia does not belong to me sad face.
Note: Thank you very much again for your kind reviews ! I wish I could write faster for you, my dearest readers... but unfortunately, I cannot. Blame lameness and laziness -kicks both of them-.
ANNOUNCEMENT: I got comments about grammar/spelling mistakes. I'm very sorry about those and I sincerely hope they do not break the flow of the story too much. Please note that English is not my mother tongue. Chances are there are mistakes that I simply cannot see yet. Also, I usually finish my chapters quite late and they have a fair number of pages, so when it's finished, I'm simply too tired/lazy to reread lol. And I don't want a beta, so... u.u I will try to correct them afterwards. I do encourage you, dear readers, to point out the mistakes to me, if it's not too much trouble, of course !
''Speech''
Thoughts
Enjoy !
DIS PAPA
Two weeks had passed and Mathieu was still diligently working on his alphabet and writing exercises. He showed great progress and Yong Soo had even taken the initiative of showing him the korean alphabet. Matthew was struggling quite a bit more to learn the symbols and the odd, guttural sounds that were associated with these characters, but the boy was a hard worker and he was driven by an unbreakable determination and motivation. It made Yong Soo tremendously happy to see this. Mathieu also had the advantage of being a child. Children are just like sponges when they learn. They absorb everything quicker. Yong Soo smiled and ruffled the little blond's hair affectionately as he watched him making his exercises.
He, then, meditated on the enormous progress that had been going on these past two weeks between the boy and his master. The first week, the boy had only returned twice to the library to ask his father to read a book to him. Mathieu had did so after he had tucked him into bed so that he wouldn't be scolded. Yong Soo, of course, had noticed the boy's evening expeditions, but had let him be. After all, it was for both the blonds' sakes. The second week, however, it seemed like Mathieu had gained confidence -and most likely, that Francis had made himself more agreeable- and went to see the older man more frequently. By the end of the week, it was every evening. That was when Yong Soo reconsidered the matter. Mathieu always went there rather late in the evening so that -he thought- Yong Soo wouldn't notice. However, this meant that he got less sleep and was more tired the next day... and it showed in the boy's work. There was also the fact that Mathieu always returned to his room alone, which he wasn't so fond of either. And he did get scolded by Francis for letting Mathieu wonder alone the first time the boy had gone to join him in the library. What was that old fart of a Frenchman thinking ? Scolding him for letting Mathieu alone then doing the exact same thing... Yong Soo let out a heavy sigh... that proud aristocrat was so stupid at times.
''Is something the matter, Yong Soo ?'' Mathieu asked worriedly. The Asian blinked. He really had sighed quite loudly, hadn't he ?
''Not at all Mathieu, sorry to have interrupted you.'' He smiled.
OoOoO
First evening of the third week came and this time, Yong Soo was standing by the door of Mathieu's bed room, waiting for the young boy to come out. He smiled a little as he thought about the boy. It seemed like Mathieu liked to be read stories to, for even when Yong Soo had just read him a book -instead of singing a lullaby- before sleep, he still would go to Francis' side. His musings were interrupted by the sound of little footsteps the other side of the door. He watched, bemused, as the door slowly, very slowly opened, letting half of Mathieu's face appear behind it. The boy looked his left side, checking carefully if anyone was there. Then, his eyes diverted to his right side. Bright blue eyes widened in surprised then in fear as they met Yong Soo's. He let out a little high-pitched gasp and quickly close the door. Yong Soo chuckled and entered the boy's room. The boy had already sprinted to his bed and was now completely hidden under the covers. Yong Soo laughed a little harder and went to the boy's side. He pulled the covers away, revealing a trembling little Mathieu, face hidden behind small chubby hands.
''What are you doing up so late, Mathieu ?'' The little boy did not answer. Yong Soo sighed a little and gently took away the boy's hands away from his face. Mathieu looked down, feeling greatly ashamed for his actions. He had broken the rules and lied to Yong Soo. The Asian smiled when he saw the little boy's guilty expression. He gently stoke his hair, making the boy relax and finally look up to him.
''I'm not angry at you, Mathieu.'' Yong Soo said calmly, smiling. ''In fact, I'm pleased to see that you and your father seem to be getting along.'' His smiled turned into a playful disproving frown.''You could just have told me, Mathieu. What were you afraid of ? If I had known you wanted to go every night, we could have had arranged this so that you wouldn't have to stay up so late.'' He added, his tone a little more serious for his last statement. Mathieu stayed downcast, pondering on his actions.
''But...'' Mathieu started hesitantly, looking down at his fingers.
''But ?'' Mathieu hesitated again, opening his mouth then closing it instantly. He blushed a little, suddenly feeling shy.
''But if we do that...'' He tried to looked into Yong Soo's eyes, glasses almost falling off his nose. ''...you won't sing or read stories to me anymore.'' Mathieu confessed sadly. Needless to say, this had caught the Asian off guard. He had underestimated the attachment that Mathieu felt for him. The child just lost his mother... he's clinging to all the attention he gets... I should have known. Yong Soo reasoned in his mind. He smiled fondly at the boy, taking his little hands in his.
''That's not true, Mathieu. I can read or sing to you any time.'' He reassured the boy. ''But I think that doing it before bed time... is something that mister Bonnefoy should be doing.'' He explained softly, gently squeezing Mathieu's hands. ''Don't you agree ?'' The little boy stared at him and Yong Soo saw the boy's eyes moist. He could tell that the boy was fighting back the tears... very hard. The boy blinked repeatedly, feeling his eyes itchy, and try to opened his mouth, but his lips were trembling... and he knew that he wouldn't be able to speak without crying. He chose to nod instead. Looking at the boy's weak, yet desperate nod broke Yong Soo's heart. Mathieu not only agreed with him, he wanted so badly for his father to read to him, sing to him... just pay attention to him... love him. Yong Soo could only understand. The poor boy was in a very fragile state and was afraid of rejection, which probably explained why the child didn't want to let go of him either. Because if did and that Francis rejected him, who would he have left ?
''Let's go, now.'' Yong Soo said softly, taking the boy in his arms. Matthew looked up to him, a little surprised.
''Where ?'' The little blondinet asked, confused.
''To see mister Bonnefoy.'' He winked, taking the boy in his arms.
''I'm allowed to ?'' The boy asked again, even more confused.
''Of course !'' Yong Soo replied animatedly. Matthew blinked then smiled gently, wiping a few tears.
OoOoO
In the library, Francis thought he could not be happier at the moment. He was sitting at his chair, a pile of books on the table beside it. He looked through them quickly, a happy smile on his features. Which one would Mathieu prefer ? Would he like poetry best ? Or maybe he'd rather continue that story from last night ? A knock on the door stopped his musings. He smiled and gave permission to enter. His smiled instantly disappeared when Yong Soo came in view.
''Mister Bonnefoy.'' Yong Soo greeted with a smile, clearly amused at his master annoyed expression. ''Good evening.''
''... Good evening, Yong Soo.'' Keeping annoyed growls for himself, he looked as Yong Soo gently set Mathieu on the ground.
''I found Mathieu awake, sneaking out of his room. I was wondering what punishment you had reserved for him.'' Yong Soo asked, smiling innocently. There was a long pause. Both father and son seemed surprised, guilty and worried at the same time.
''...punishment, you say ?'' Francis repeated quietly, thinking he might have misheard the Asian.
''Indeed, sir !'' Yong Soo confirmed with enthusiasm. ''Mathieu disobeyed and it is quite late, after all !'' Francis was speechless. He didn't want to punish Mathieu ! The poor boy didn't deserve it ! In fact, it was his own fault if the boy was up so late...
Yong Soo eyed his master with expectant eyes. If his master had made any progress with his damned pride, he would take the blame. If he didn't he would punish Mathieu to keep up appearances. He spared a furtive glace at the little blond. Yong Soo felt guilty for playing such a trick on the boy, but it was for his own good. He wouldn't let Francis punish him anyways, supposing the noble decided to do so.
''Mathieu shall not be punished. It was my own fault.'' Francis said, eyeing the tall butler judgmentally.
''Is that so ?'' Yong Soo smiled. ''Then I apologize, sir.'' He bowed, more than satisfied with his master's answer. He smiled again when he heard the little boy sigh in relief.
''Don't apologize... I should be the one apologizing...'' Francis said in a calm tone, getting up from his chair. Yong Soo stared at his master. This was more than he had dared hoping. His surprise grew with Francis' next words. ''I was selfish and let Mathieu come here alone so late in the evening.'' Francis walked up to the little boy and gently picked him up. Mathieu blushed shyly and smiled. Francis smiled back to the child and spoke again. ''From now on, please bring him here every night at a respectable hour.'' And with that, Francis walked back to his chair and sat, setting the little boy on his comfortably on his thighs and knees. Yong Soo was still staring. He blinked. He smiled.
''Of course, sir !'' He yelled. Then, a thought occurred in his mind. ''Shall I go fetch him later then, so that I can put him to bed ?'' He asked hesitantly.
''Ah... well... uhm... Yes. Yes, you shall.'' He blabbered uneasily. Mathieu's smile seemed to fade a little, as did Yong Soo's.
''Very well, sir.'' Yong Soo said with much less vividness and left the room. Francis cursed himself silently for being such a coward. When the younger man left, Francis looked down to the little boy on his lap and smiled.
''What would you like me to read tonight, Mathieu ?'' Francis gently asked, inviting the little boy to look into the pile of books he had prepared from him. ''Would you like to continue the story about the cat ?''
''Hm...'' Mathieu mused cutely, looking through the books with careful hands. His eyes caught a small journal-like book at the farthest corner of the small table. The boy blinked and reached for the book. It was very different from the others. It had a simple, brown leather cover and nothing was written on it. ''What is this one about ?''
''Ah, I don't think you will like this one, Mathieu.'' Francis explained gently.
''Why ?'' Mathieu asked, cocking his head to the side a little.
''You are a bit too young. I'm sure you will find it boring.'' The older man chuckled, taking the book away from the boy. ''It's the personal notes of a man during his journey in the New World.'' He continued, setting the book back on the table.
''The New World ?'' Mathieu repeated slowly.
''Yes. This man, Jacques Cartier, left France to find the New World. A world where only savages live.'' Mathieu stared, wide-eyed, letting a long and soft 'oh' escape his mouth. The boy's eyes were sparkling with curiosity and amazement.
''Can you read it to me, please ?'' He asked clapping his hands together in excitement.
''Are you sure, Mathieu ? The book is nothing but long descriptions...'' Francis trailed off.
''Yes, please.'' Mathieu asked politely, smiling.
''Very well then...'' Francis chuckled again and took the book. He shuffled through the first pages of introduction and went straight to the explorer's words. ''Sait-Malo 20 avril 1534...''
OoOoO
''...and what we saw there, on the ice, was a great bear, taller than any of my men. Its fur was as white as the snow around us...'' Francis stopped reading, spending a quick glance at the little boy on his lap. He bit back a chuckle. The boy's eyes were wide open, sparkling with utmost awe, his mouth parted. The boy was captivated by each of his words.
''...wow... white bears ?'' Mathieu repeated, not believing his ears.
''It is quite surprising indeed !'' Francis said, mimicking the little boy's surprise, wanting to accompany him in his enthusiasm. Not very long passed for the two blonds before the was another knock on the door. Yong Soo entered the library, bowed lightly and walked to the pair.
''It is time for Mathieu to go to bed.'' He said, smiling to the little boy.
''Can't I stay a little longer, please ?'' The little boy asked politely. Yong Soo looked fondly at the boy, but as adorable as the request was...
''I'm afraid not, Mathieu. It is far too late.'' With that, the Asian took the boy in his arms. ''Say goodnight to mister Bonnefoy, alright ?'' Mathieu turned his head to his father and waved at the man.
''Goodnight mister Bonnefoy.'' The little boy said before resting his blond head on the Asian's shoulder. Mathieu closed his eyes. The little lad was rather tired.
''...Goodnight, Mathieu...'' Francis answered back weakly, not liking the scene before him. As Yong Soo walked towards the door, Francis rose from his seat, ready to stop the man. He extanded his arm, but the gesture was vain, as the duo far out of reach. He opened his mouth but nothing came out. Yong Soo exited the room through the door, which closed slowly behind them. Francis clenched his first angrily. Angry at himself. He looked down the floor. ''I'm so... argh !'' He shook his head frustratedly and ran toward the door. He quickly opened it. He saw Yong Soo, who was barely a few steps in front of him, turn around, seeming only half-surprised. The Asian stared at his slightly panting master with a growing smirk. Mathieu, for his part, rose his head and blinked innocently at the man with not the slightest idea of what was going on.
''Something wrong, sir ?'' Yong Soo asked, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Francis growled a bit in frustration, not liking how insolent his servant was -and not wanting to admit one minute that he was actually quite embarrassed by his sudden action. ''I beg your pardon, sir ?'' Yong Soo asked again.
''I said... I'll put Mathieu to bed.'' Francis repeated, blushing. Mathieu's eyes widened and gain a sudden brightness. His smile betrayed his modesty and Francis could only be happy for it as he smiled back at the little boy. Yong Soo's gaze softened at the sight. He gently handed Mathieu over to Francis. And Yong Soo could not help but feel incredibly proud. Proud at his master for making incredible progress, but also proud at himself for contributing to this happy event. He looked, heart fluttering slightly at the loveliness of the scene, as Francis hugged the little boy close to his heart, burying his nose in those silky, soft blond hair. The Frenchman closed his eyes and Yong Soo could feel what the man was feeling. It looked as though his child had been ripped away from him for years and then, he was suddenly given back to him. Well, Yong Soo though, it is essentially the case. Francis stayed silent for a while, embracing the little boy almost desperately into his arms. Neither of the older men could see the young boy's face. It was better this way, as the sight would have been heartbreaking. Dear Mathieu was fighting back tears. He, too, clung to his father with happiness that could not be named. He hid his face shyly in his father's shoulder, not wanting the two men to see his moist eyes. Francis finally loosened his grip on the little boy and looked at Yong Soo, embarrassed.
''... could... you show me where his room is ?'' He felt incredibly stupid. He didn't even know where Mathieu had been sleeping all this time !
''Of course, sir.'' Yong Soo replied softly. He couldn't bring himself to tease his master about it. The man didn't deserve it at the moment. His own his self-inflicted embarrassment was good enough of a punishment. ''This way, please.'' He gestured toward the stairs and the two men walked on.
Francis was not surprised to find his boy's room to be right next to his servant's, but that didn't mean he wasn't bothered by it. Francis looked furtively at his servant, who wished both blonds goodnight before entering his room. Mathieu, of course, eagerly wished goodnight to his caretaker as well, waving at him childishly. Then, father began to feel slightly awkward at their situation, while son was completely obvious to his father's nervousness. The older man penetrated the room and he stopped dead in his track when he saw what it looked like. Francis had never bothered to enter the servants' quarters. He was, least to say, surprised at the plainness and the size of the room. The decoration and the furniture was incredibly dull. The bed was small, the walls, the the bedsheets, the curtain, everything was so dark ! Too dark for a little boy like Mathieu... Francis swallows heavily and slowly walked to the bed. Yong Soo, before Mathieu's little escapade, had already taken care of the boy's bedtime ritual; he was already in his sleeping gown and his hygiene had been taken care of as well. Francis wished he had taken care of it himself. He gently laid Mathieu in his bed and tucked him in securely into the warmth of the covers. He brushed away a few strands of golden locks and smiled at the little boy, who smiled back at him.
''Goodnight, Mathieu. Sleep well.'' Francis said calmly.
''Thank you, you as well mister Bonnefoy.'' The boy answered shyly. Francis hesitated for a second. Cheeks blushing, the man leaned in and kissed the boy's forehead. His heart was fluttering in happiness. It felt right, it felt good. Yet, it was such a simple gesture. Francis realized what he had been missing all those years. And it hurt him deeply. He looked fondly at Mathieu, who closed his eyes, sleepiness finally taking over him. The boy looked like a little angel. His expression was so peaceful, happy. Even when the boy was deeply asleep, Francis stayed there, simply looking at him.
OoOoO
The next morning, Francis sat, as usual, in the breakfast room. The man hadn't even touched his food. He kept staring dreamily at the window, thinking of his little Mathieu. How peaceful his slumber was, how cute the little nonsense the boy muttered in his sleep was... Francis sighed, smiling.
''Hm... Are you alright, mister Bonnefoy ?'' A young servant asked, bringing the man a cup of coffee. Francis stayed unresponsive for a few seconds, then blinked confusedly.
''I beg your pardon ?''
''Are you alright, sir ?''
''Oh, oh yes. Yes of course. Thank you.'' He dismissed the girl, quickly going back to his musings. The servant stared before leaving the breakfast room.
As she entered the kitchen, the servant was rather shocked to see the strangely uncomfortable atmosphere. She blinked as Yong Soo and Mathieu ate silently in a corner of a counter, the older man seemingly distracting the young boy with what she assumed to be korean vocabulary. At the other side of the room, near the ovens, stood most of the servants. It was rare to see so many of them at the same place. What was going on ? She walked to the group, who were whispering among themselves.
''-yes, quite strange indeed. Surely we have been deceived somewhere...'' The servant heard as she managed to clear herself a path into the little group.
''What's going on ?'' The servant asked, genuinely confused.
''Ah, Mathilde, there you are. We'd like to have your opinion.'' A rounded woman said, frowning a little. ''Don't you find this strange ?''
''... what exactly should I find strange, madame ?''
''Mathieu, of course ! Young Soo said he was the son of a certain relative. This makes no sense ! He's been eating with us -the servant- and he's been staying here for a while, now, and we haven't seen the poor boy's parents !'' The woman said, a little louder this time, making sure Yong Soo had heard. Mathilde bit her lip. The woman was right, after all.
As the group shamelessly continued on their gossips, Yong Soo was silently panicking. This would cause tremendous problems. And this, of course, was nothing compared to the problems that will appear should Mathieu's presence here be known to the society. Yong Soo looked down to the little boy, worried. The boy was looking at his food with utter disinterest. Mathieu did not have the slightest of appetite. He felt too uncomfortable. Just as he had lived one of the happiest moment of his life the night before, reality had to rub the truth cruelly in his face. His illegitimate existence was something that Francis was ashamed of, something that could bring disaster into his and his father's lives. The little boy blinked as he felt Yong Soo's hand gently pat his back.
''Don't worry about it, da ze.'' He smiled, trying to sound as convincing and relaxed as possible. ''Mister Bonnefoy and I will take care of this. Finish your meal, now.''
''... okay.'' The boy said weakly, not easily fooled. Mathieu could clearly see the uneasiness in his caretaker's eyes. Looking back down at his plate, Mathieu poked the food with his fork, wondering what would become of him from now on.
Yong Soo looked sadly at him. He wish such a young and sweet child didn't have to worry about his future like this. It was simply unacceptable.
OoOoO
Yong Soo left young Mathieu to the care of Mathilde, duties calling him. As soon as he had settled up the servants' chores for the day, Yong Soo was called upon again.
''Your presence is requested at the main door, mister Im.'' A servant said politely. Yong Soo quickly walked there and was pleased to see that about a quarter of his order of clothes for Mathieu had arrived. Two large chests were transported by two rather tall valets. The set the chests in the lobby and, after Yong Soo had paid them their due, left the estate. Yong Soo opened the fest chest and nodded approvingly at what he saw. The clothes were neatly folded in very light silk fabrics and were made, as expected, from the finest material and the finest taste. His smiled widened, letting his white teeth open to the world, as he imagined how adorable Mathieu would look in that sailor-like white and blue suit... oh, and that assorted hat ! Yong Soo eagerly looked further into the content of the large chest. There, this coat was splendid with the little fur around the extremities of it.
''Are these all Mathieu's ?'' A nearby servant asked. Yong Soo was startled by the sudden question. He turned toward a middle-aged lady.
''Yes.'' He answered simply, blinking. The lady frowned.
''Strange. Why were they not sent here earlier ?'' She said walking closer to the opened chest. ''I've been wondering why Mathieu kept wearing these poor-looking outfits all the time. And always the same three ones.'' She reached the clothes and looked at them closely. Yong Soo swallowed nervously. ''...these are brand new clothes...'' She stated, surprised.
''Yes.'' Yong Soo confirmed again. The lady turned around, hands on either sides of her hips.
''I demand an explanation, mister Im.''
''I beg your pardon ?'' Yong Soo asked, vainly trying to avoid the subject.
''You know perfectly well. Why have we not seen the boy's parents yet ? Why is he here at all ?'' The lady said, her tone rising with each word. Yong Soo sighed.
''I'm sorry, miss Fortier, but I am in no position to reveal anything. Please wait for mister Bonnefoy to speak about the matter himself.'' He asked gently, soft voice, hoping that his abnormally calm tone would make the lady realize the gravity of the situation. The lady, of course, noticed this. She was used to the cheerful attitude of the Asian and, therefore, calmed down. The short, but nonetheless awkward moment passed without a word being uttered. The lady's mouth opened again.
''Why does the boy look so strikingly like the master ?'' Asked she, yet, to both servants, it didn't sound like a question. Yong Soo could see in the woman's eyes that she knew, at least, that the boy was much closer in blood than a distant relative's son. Yong Soo said nothing. Instead, he shook his head in a silent apology and turned around, taking one of the chests with him and left to Mathieu's room.
After he had brought the clothes to the boy's room, Yong Soo walked straight to the master's study, his pace much faster than necessary. Yong Soo was more and more alarmed with each passing minute. He knew this would be coming sooner or later, but he had let himself be overwhelmed by the precious time he had been spending with the boy, and the time the boy had been spending with his father. Now, it was time to act. To set things good. At least within the estate. Yong Soo knocked on the door, but didn't bother waiting for his master's reply. He knew he was going to be reprimanded about it, but he couldn't care. Upon entrance, he saw the man standing by the window, neglecting his daily duties as a Marquis.
''Sir, I-''
''Ah, Yong Soo !'' The Frenchman exclaimed, smiling widely. ''Good, I was about to call for you.'' Yong Soo blinked, he had not expected this.
''Sir ?''
''The drawing room, the one right beside my private room, I would like you to empty it and redecorate it. It will be Mathieu's room.'' Yong Soo gaped. He smiled, happy to hear the news, but then, he remembered what he had came here for.
''That is great news, sir, but I come to speak to you of an important matter.'' Yong Soo said, the wavering of his voice betraying his calm tone. Francis frowned, annoyed.
''Then speak.'' He said rudely.
''Sir, the servants are suspicious of Mathieu's true reason for his presence. I believe some of them might even suspect he is your child.'' Francis stayed mute for a long minute, all previous cheerfulness and annoyance completely gone. His shoulders fell and he stared at Yong Soo as if he had only realized now that Mathieu's presence was actually truly problematic. Probably, Yong Soo thought, it was the case. Francis was used to having things he wanted by simply asking and not having truly important issues to deal with. He pitied his master for his cluelessness. Francis turned around and looked at nothing in particular. He rubbed his beard nervously, deep in thought. Then, the man sighed.
''I will explained the truth. What else is there to do ? Them living in my own estate, it is impossible -and too late- to fool them with another story.'' Yong Soo could only agree. He pitied his master for having to deal with this, although the man had brought this upon himself, with his life of debauch. Yong Soo pitied Mathieu even more. ''Take Mathieu with you, play with him or something... I shall upon all the servants and talk to them.'' Francis declared solemnly, silently praying to God that all would go well.
OoOoO
Yong Soo and Mathieu sat at their desks with little enthusiasm. The Asian was teaching the boy -or at least trying too, with the energy that was left in him- the korean alphabet. Mathieu dutifully copied down the strange looking symbols, but his mind was completely elsewhere. Yong Soo had told Mathieu of the situation and was now worrying about the servants' reaction. He sincerely thought that it likely won't be very bad, seeing as most of the servants -especially the ladies- seemed quite fond of him. However, there were a few of them whom he did not know very well and therefore did not know how they would take the news. Yong Soo seemed reading his mind as he voiced the comfort he needed.
''Don't worry, Mathieu. Despite what one might think at first glance, Francis is a very respectable man. The majority of us, the servants, owe him our life. It is not common for a nobleman to take in as servant a foreigner, like me, or a homeless or an ex-pros-'' Yong Soo stopped himself, a little embarrassed. Mathieu's mother was a prostitute and he didn't want to wake painful memories in the boy. He wasn't even sure if the boy knew his mother was a prostitute and he was even less sure if the boy knew what it meant. He didn't want to explain it to the innocent child. At least not now.
''An ex-what ?'' Mathieu repeated, blinking in confusion.
''It doesn't matter, what I mean is that whether some servants approve or not of your presence here, they owe much to the master.'' Yong Soo smiled to the boy, patting his shoulder gently. ''And it is rather hard to find a job these days, especially one that pays well like this one.'' He winked to the boy. Francis does pay rather well, compared to what he had learned from servants of other households. Mathieu seemed to relax a bit and smiled to his caretaker before turning back to his exercises. Yong Soo, although he knew all this, couldn't help but worry still. The risks were still there.
OoOoO
Francis contemplated his servants for a good long minute. Needless to say, the rich man was nervous beyond words. He also felt a little silly for being nervous. He knew -he could feel it in the gaze of his servants- that most of them had already guessed the truth. The evidences were such that it was hard to come to a different conclusion. Francis sighed. It was the first time he had all his servants gathered in the same spot and even though he was the master, he felt incredibly small and intimidated. Gathering all his courage, the Frenchman finally dared to speak.
''I assume you have all made assumptions concerning young Mathieu and I.'' He started as calmly as he could. His slightly wavering voice was betraying his facade horribly. The servants, as expected, stayed silence. What Francis couldn't see, though, was that the servants were quite worried about their master. It was the first time, since the death of his respectable parents, that they had seen the man so weak. It was a different kind of weakness, though. While back then it had been true sadness, this time the master seemed lost, anxious.
''And your assumptions are mostly likely to be accurate. I will put this simply. Mathieu is my illegitimate son.'' Francis stared, not a gasp came out, a great majority of the servants didn't even look remotely surprised. He had expected this, still... He continued, not knowing what else to do. ''He was conceived during one of my nightly escapades roughly seven years ago. The mother is dead. I learned all of this the very day Mathieu first came into this house.'' At this, some of the servants looked down, pitying the little child, some looked shocked and Francis could even feel a few glares coming from some of the ladies. He knew what they were thinking. They probably thought he was a irresponsible, perverted man. A lady of strong character stepped forth and voiced her opinion.
''You are not treating him like your son.'' She stated simply, looking Francis with stern, calculating eyes. Francis blinked, taken aback by the sudden statement. ''His is sleeping in our quarters, eating with us... what kind of father are you ? Mathieu's past wouldn't be an issue if you treated him like he deserves to be treated !'' Sounds of approbations followed from the rest of the servants. Francis blinked again. He had been mistaking. While he was afraid the servants might denounce Mathieu's existence, they were actually disapproving the way he was treating his son.
''She's right !'' Another lady said, stepping beside the previous one. A whole new fear grew in Francis, one far more intense than the first one. Were the servants going to take Mathieu away from him ? Because he didn't deserve him ? Panicking Francis spoke again, this time not bothering to put on a calm mask.
''I know ! I know ! I have been miserable to him. I do not deserve him...'' Francis' heart was racing so fast and so hard, driven by panic. ''But I beg you... I beg you not to take him away from me... He is my child, and I want to be a father to him... please... at least for his sake. He needs me. He needs a father... and I need him...'' Francis closed his eyes, head downcast. He put a hand on his forehead, half hiding his eyes in the process. He didn't want his servants to see the tears that were gathering in his eyes. Saying this aloud made him realize how much guilt he had been accumulating the past weeks.
The room was dead silent. The servants looked worriedly at each other, then at their master. Perhaps they had indeed made a hasty judgement of their master. The man truly seemed to regret his actions and they knew, deep down, that Francis Bonnefoy was a very good man. They felt very grateful for all the things their master had done for them -modest or not- and for that reason, they would never betray him. The gardener stepped forward and went to his master's side, tapping his shoulder lightly.
'' 's fine, master. We won't wont take away from you. Though we'll watch closely, eh ?'' The large man said teasingly, lightening the mood. The man was quite fond of the little boy himself. He liked how Mathieu seemed to appreciate nature and how respectful he was of it. He always looked at the plants and trees attentively, very carefully brushing the flowers and leaves with his little fingers. He had also noticed how the boy seemed to like to draw nature and was genuinely impressed by the boy's talent. For all those reasons, the gardener would do everything to protect the boy, as has never had the happiness of having children. He'd help the child having a father, even if it was by simply keeping a secret. The man smiled when his master's surprised eyes met his. He saw infinite gratefulness in them. Francis also shared the look with the rest of his servants, who all nodded in approbation at the gardener's words.
''Thank you.'' Francis bowed.
OoOoO
''You have called for me, sir ?'' Yong Soo asked hesitantly as he entered his master's study room. As soon as he saw the other man's happy expression, all worries faded away. It had apparently gone very well.
''Yes, I have.'' Francis said, all smiles. ''I have decided to take care of Mathieu's new room myself. I shall call the painter and buy the furniture at this instant. I'm hoping to be done by the end of this day so that Mathieu can sleep in his new bed tonight.'' He said gathering a few papers on his desk before turning to Yong Soo again. ''Just take good care of him while I'm gone.''
''Of course, sir.'' Yong Soo replied, bowing. He, then, eagerly exited the room, excited to tell the news to his little protégé.
OoOoO
Francis had asked some of the servants to empty the drawing room and rip off the wallpaper. While they did that, the nobleman wondered ingenuously through the alleys of the city, looking with calculating eyes at the different fabrics, furniture, toys, curtains and whatnot. He wondered what colours would fit his little angel best. He regretted that he didn't know him better, but pushed the feeling aside. If he wanted to be happy with his son, he'd have to let go of the past and make a better future. He went back to his musings as he entered a shop. Mathieu was cheerful, but calm and timid. He was a happy child. He was soft and kind. He likes nature. Pastel colours would fit him best. Pale blue and pale green. Yes, that would fit him perfectly. He talked to the owner of the shop and gave him the appropriate measurements for curtains and several assorted sets of bedding: bedspreads, cushions and pillows, bedsheets, curtains for the four poster bed...
''I would like to have at least one set ready for tonight.'' Francis informed. The owner, also the tailor, stared at him wide eyed. Francis worried not; all was settled when the good amount of money was given. He excited the shop, satisfied.
Francis walked into several other shops, getting similar scenes. Francis was very, very glad to be rich. As he walked on, the rich man came across several toys shops. Francis figured that, being an only child, much like him, he'd surely enjoy have several toys to occupy him. He smiled to himself choosing toys almost at random, ignored the blinking stares that were directed at him. A few children, accompanied by their parents, envied the child who had such a zealous father. Francis noticed a few figures of various animals. He was especially impressed by how realistic the horses looked. He bought some. And an idea was born. I should buy him a pony ! I'm sure Mathieu would love horseback riding. He exclaimed happily in his mind, determined to get his little boy the cutest pony he would find. Smiling to himself, Francis continued with his errands.
Francis came back into the soon-to-be-Mathieu's room happy to see it empty and ready to be decorated. Francis regretted that he couldn't have lunch with his little boy, but surely, the little blond would forgive him when he would see his room. Without loosing another instant, the man called the decorators and painters.
OoOoO
Dinner time came and Francis sighed in relief. Barely anything was left to do; the last furniture would be delivered soon enough. Francis -for the first time since he was but a small child- went to the kitchens. Needless to say that the cooks there were surprised of his presence.
''What does Mathieu like eating best ?'' He asked. He had never ate with the boy and therefore did not know of his tastes concerning food. He didn't know much about the boy at all, but food was a god way to start.
''Well, he is a sweet tooth. He likes chicken best when it comes to meat and his favourite meal are crêpes.'' The cook explained, though not quite understanding the purpose of this sudden interrogatory.
''Very well.'' Francis nodded, mentally taking note of this. ''Tonight is a special night. Please prepare something special for Mathieu. Everything he likes. You could make chicken with chocolate sauce for example, it's quite popular right now in the restaurants in town.'' He suggested smiling to the cook.
''Very well, sir.'' The cook nodded and promptly started to cook. Francis nodded approvingly, then turn to one of the maids.
''Mathieu will eat at my table tonight, and for the nights to follow. And every morning and every lunch.'' Francis declared, his tone serious and playful at the same time. ''Set the table accordingly.''
''Of course, sir !'' The maid replied with much enthusiasm.
OoOoO
Upon entering the dinning room, Francis noticed with a light frown on his features that his and Mathieu's pate where a little too far apart for his liking. He calmly walked up to their seats and moved their plates and various utensils closer together. Their plate were on each side of one of the corners of the grand table, which fitted Francis perfectly; if they had been on opposite sides of the table, they would be too far apart, the same way that if they had been right beside each other, Francis wouldn't have been able to look at his son while eating. The maid -silently standing in the corner of the room near the door- noted her master's action and smiled fondly at the sight. Most maids had been very jealous of her when they learn the two blond would be eating together for the first time and that she was the one on duty to serve dinner that night. She smiled in excitement. Francis nodded to himself, smiling and sat at his usual seat. He looked at what was already served on the table and his smiled widened. It looked remarkably tasty -if not a little too sweet for his own tastes- and knew Mathieu would certainly like this. Several kinds of fruits and bread was served, along with butter and honey. There was cold meat and creamy cheese -not the usual strong cheese Francis preferred- and a generous jar of fresh milk. Let's not forget, of course, the magnificent bouquet of roses at the centre of the table, which was in a most exquisite pot of fine chinese porcelain. The main dishes would be served when Mathieu would arrived. He couldn't wait. As he sat there silently, Francis began to feel strangely nervous. He tried to reason himself, finding his reaction silly, but had to resigned as his inner speech only made him more nervous. He had to admit to himself that he was scared. He was truly trying to bond with his son and was scared of rejection more than anything else. He prayed to God he had done nothing wrong. Knocks on the door were heard and Francis felt a wave of sudden nervousness attack him full force. He stood from his seat and silently gestured to the made to open the door.
Yong Soo walked in, his hand linked with Mathieu, whose head was a little downcast in a very shy and adorable manner. Francis noted that the child was dressed in a new outfit -a very, very fine looking one at that, and it seemed that the angelic sight made Francis' anxiety vanish. He smiled as he walked to the pair. He knelt in front of the young boy and noticed a faint pinkish tone to Mathieu's cheeks. Yong Soo let go of Mathieu's hand a took a short step back. Francis smiled fondly and found simply adorable how Mathieu's eyes kept themselves shyly on the floor. It seemed Mathieu was a little scared as well. He'd have to take care of this. It wouldn't do for a boy to be scared of his own father !
''Bonsoir Mathieu, you look tremendously adorable in these clothes. Just like a little prince.'' Francis said softly. What he said was then complete truth. The boy was wearing a silky white blouse over which he wore a pale blue sleeveless suit with discrete Victorian embroidered designs on it. He wore dark blue shorts -assorted with his freshly polished dark blue shoes- and knee-high white socks. Francis also noticed that part of his silky blond hair were tied back with a dark blue ribbon in a similar fashion of his own.
''Merci.'' The boy replied in the tiniest voice. Unable to hold back, Francis enveloped the little prince in a warm, protecting and loving embrace. The boy, although surprised at first, wrapped his short arms around his father's waist, shyly answering to the hug. Francis closed his eyes and smelled deeply the boy's hair. He smiled and broke them embrace, though instantly picking up the child in his warms, walking back to their respective seats. Francis set the child on his chair -on which a cushion was put to rise the child on appropriate level- then took his own seat. Yong Soo bowed to them.
''Bon appétit.'' He said, smiling, and exited the room. Mathieu looked nervously at his father.
''Yong Soo cannot eat with us ?'' He asked hesitantly. Francis shifted uneasily on his chair. He had almost forgotten that Mathieu was not used to the life of nobles and the way things worked.
''No, Mathieu. That's not how things work.'' He explained as gently as possible, not wanting to upset the child. Mathieu blinked, not quite understanding what this meant.
''Why ?''
''The servants do not eat with the master and his family.'' Mathieu blushed at the mention of family. He smiled a little, though he still didn't understand why Yong Soo couldn't eat with them. He still found strange how everyone worked for Francis. Did his father have a job ? Where did all the money come from ?
''I see.'' He said softly, too shy to ask for further explanations. Mathieu's eyes diverted on the food and they widened hungrily at the sight. It looked very tasty and the way it was presented was very elegant as well. Just as he was about to ask permission to dig in, the door opened to reveal one of the servants who came in with a little table on wheels, then, leaving the tray there, the servant left. The young lady that had been standing silently by the door went to their side and filled their bowls with soup. Then, she gently added a few seasonings and a little parsley leaf on top. She set the bowls in front of the two blonds. Then, she turned to Mathieu.
''Would you like cream in your soup, Mathieu ?'' She asked politely. Cream sounded very good to Mathieu, but his shyness made him hesitate. He nodded silently, blushing. The girl smiled and took a porcelain gravy boat, in which was the cream, and poured some in the boy's soup. Mathieu watched in amazement as the maid traced a rather sophisticated and elegant design in the soup with the flow of the cream. He half heard the lady ask if Francis wanted some.
''No, thank you.'' The lady bowed, then returned to the tray. Mathieu was still staring at his soup. How was he supposed to eat this ? It was too beautiful, he didn't want to destroy it !
''Would you like wine with your potage, sir ?''
''I will wait until the main dish, thank you Nadine.'' She bowed then served the man a generous glass of water, knowing the man preferred water to milk.
''Would you like milk or water ?'' She said, turning to Mathieu. Mathieu blinked and put his hand on his pink lips.
''Milk, please.'' He said in his tiny voice, a little uncomfortable. The lady served him a fresh glass of milk and returned to her spot by the door. Francis took his spoon and looked at Mathieu -who was still staring at his soup, unmoving- and chuckled at the sight.
''Are you not hungry, Mathieu ?'' He asked, a hit of gentle mockery in his tone. Mathieu blushed shyly and took his spoon in his hand. He watched as his father slowly moved his spoon from a side to another of the soup, mixing the seasoning without making the soup splash around. Mathieu imitated his father, thinking it was the safest thing to do. ''How was your day ? Did you learn new things ?'' Francis said good naturally, braking the silence. Mathieu nodded, smiling modestly.
''Oui. Yong Soo started showing me his alphabet.'' He said, his voice held pride. Francis blinked, not quite understanding what the boy meant. Then, it hit him.
''You are learning Korean ?'' Francis asked a little incredulous. Mathieu nodded, blushing. ''Oh, I see. Interesting.'' Francis smiled. ''And are you making progresses in reading and writing ?'' Mathieu nodded again. Francis smiled. The boy really was shy; he never spoke more than necessary. He wished he'd loosen up a little with him, though. Francis took a sip of his soup and noticed Mathieu do the same. He blinked as he saw how Mathieu was holding his spoon and how he was eating the soup. He held it like peasants did, with their fist, like they held their pitchfork. ''There now, Mathieu, that's not how you hold a spoon.'' Francis scolded teasingly. Mathieu looked up to him innocently, the spoon still in his mouth. Francis filled his spoon with a little bit of soup again -about half of it- and showed Mathieu how to do. ''See ? You hold it much like you would hold a pencil. Then, you bring the spoon to your lips and drink from it and do as little noise as possible, like this.'' He said, eating his soup. ''Don't put the spoon into your mouth.'' Mathieu blushed and nodded, a little embarrassed, and tried again.
''Like this ?'' He said after taking a sip.
''Exactly, very good.'' Francis praised. Mathieu smiled, happy he had made his father proud. The duo ate their soup -and dug into the various things on the table-, chatting softly about various things. In those little conversations, Francis learned much about his son. The boy was more talkative when it came to nature or the little animals that lived in the garden, like birds and such, and also about what he had read to him, especially the book about Jacques Cartier. The boy confessed that he'd love to visit Canada one day to see the wild nature, that it would be so different from Paris. Francis nodded listening attentively to every of his child's words. Mathieu too, of course, learned about his father. Both blonds talked about their interests and discovered that they shared common interest in nature. Although, they admitted, Mathieu liked wild nature best, while Francis liked finely cut bushes and the healthy roses of his garden.
The maid by the door was smiling happily at the pair, glad to see the father and the son bonding so well. The boy seemed to be gaining in confidence; he seemed less shy. When their bowls were emptied, she asked the two if they'd like a second serving. Mathieu seemed to want a second one and voiced his wish politely, but Franis cut in.
''But you won't be hungry for the main dish, Mathieu. And let's not forget about the dessert.'' The older man winked, and so Mathieu, giggling, said he'd wait for the main dish.
The door to the dinning room opened and a second tray was carried in by a new maid, who left almost immediately, taking the tray on which the soup was back with her. Nadine Brought the tray to the table, took the porcelain tureen from it and set it on the table. With a cloth, she took of the cover of the tureen, letting steam come out of it. Mathieu immediately caught the smell. His eyes widened and he unconsciously licked his lips. It smelled like chocolate. Nadine took his plate and poured in the chocolate flavoured chicken along with fruits and other sweet tasting vegetables – and again, making fancy arrangements in plate- and set the plate back in front of Mathieu. Mathieu had to keep himself from drooling as he looked at the plate. The maid served Francis as well, and also gave him his wine, and went back to her spot, waiting in case the two needed anything.
''I asked the cooks to prepare this especially for you.'' Francis told Mathieu, smiling lovingly at him. Mathieu looked up to him with sparkling eyes.
''Thank you so much, mister Bonnefoy !'' The child said vividly. Francis ruffled the boy's hair affectionately, although he wished the boy would call him papa...
''You're very welcome, Mathieu. Now eat before it gets cold.'' He winked. Mathieu nodded eagerly and took fork and knife in hand. At this Francis chuckled. Mathieu turned to him, tilting his head in confusion. ''You eat like the English.'' Francis stated. Mathieu blushed.
''I'm sorry.'' He said shyly, looking down at his utensils. Francis' eyes grew.
''O-oh, non, don't apologize. Don't worry.'' Francis baffled; he didn't want to make the child uncomfortable. ''See, the proper french etiquette stipulates that you should hold your fork in your left hand and the knife in the right hand.'' He explained calmly. Mathieu blinked but did as told. It felt a bit awkward. He was right-handed, so shouldn't he hold his fork in the right hand ?
''Like this ?''
''Yes.'' Francs smiled. ''Now, turn the fork so that the teeth are curving down toward the plate. Yes, like this.'' Francis watched in amusement as he looked at his child try the new technique. ''You see ? Now you don't kneed to exchange hands to cut the food.'' Mathieu nodded, smiling a little. ''You eat like the King of France eats, now.'' Francis declared and Mathieu felt strangely proud, like he was a noble. He felt like the heroes or the princes in the stories. Both blondes continued to eat.
''Oh.'' Francis chuckled. ''You have chocolate on your mouth.'' The blond took a table serviette and gently rubbed away the chocolate off Mathieu's face. The little boy giggled, blushing a little. Francis joined his son in laughter. The boy was simply too adorable. The gesture, albeit very little, made Francis strangely happy. It made him feel like a real father.
For dessert, crêpes were served and Francis was happy to note how fine of an appetite his son had. It was a definite sign of good health and found this reassuring. He also noticed the boy had gained a little weight. The boy had now a healthy, childish chubbiness to his cheeks that he did not have when he first came in his estate -the boy had been quite skinny at the time, a little too skinny. When dinner was finished, Francis took Mathieu in his arms. It was already time for him to read his son a story. The dinner had been quite long -and they had started a little late- seeing as the two had been talking and taking their time to eat. Francis, in all honesty, could not remember ever having a more lovely dinner in his life.
Upon entering the library, Francis had to keep himself from smiling too much. He was about to show his cute son his first surprise of the many he would have tonight. He got to their usual seat and sat Mathieu on his lap, as usual. He noticed Mathieu blinked curiously at the piles and piles of books that were on the table and a medium-sized chest that had not been there before. Francis, guessing his son's thoughts, answered to them.
''These are books I bought your you today. I don't have much children books, so I decided to buy some.'' Mathieu was quite impressed by his father's definition of 'some'. Still, he could not deny that it pleased him very much and that he was very much excited to know what stories laid before him. Mathieu looked up to his father, smiling timidly.
''Thank you.'' The boy said softly, playing with his fingers in an embarrassed manner. He wanted very much to hug his father, but, again, was stopped by his shyness and his uncertainty. He could not help but wonder what had brought the relatively sudden change in his father's attitude toward him, and it made him a little bit comfortable. The sudden attention, the fabulous food, the luxurious clothes... his glasses. All this was overwhelming for the boy that had been raised in very, very modest conditions. Francis smiled sadly at the child's obvious discomfort. Maybe he should have bought more books ? Maybe this wasn't enough ? Trying to lighten the mood, Francis spoke again.
''Which one seems more appealing to you ?'' Mathieu looked into the nearest pile of books. To him, all of them seemed fabulous and it reminded him how he simply couldn't wait until the day he'd be able to read those on his own. One particular book caught his attention. He was not exactly sure of what the title was, but the picture on the cover certainly looked very nice. He took the book and gave it to his father.
''Can we read this one, please ?''
''Of course.'' Francis said, smiling as he took the book. ''An interesting choice, there.''
The book was, in fact, a compilation of various fairytales from different countries. Francis began to read and Mathieu looked carefully at the pictures and also tried to read along with his father.
The first story was a Russian story called Baba Yaga. It was the story of a young girl and her doll that went through many hardships because of her mother-in-law and sisters-in-law. It was thanks to an ugly witch -Baba Yaga- that the girl was able to get vengeance.
The second story was a British one called Mr. Fox. This fairytale was about a beautiful young lady who was in love with a handsome young lord called Mr. Fox. The lady and Mr. Fox were to be married. The eve of their marriage, however, the young lady discovered that Mr. Fox was, in fact, a villain who kidnapped young ladies such as her, killed them and rubbed them from their jewelry. The Lady told this to her brothers and friends, and Mr. Fox was no more.
Of all the short fairytales Francis had read to his son that evening, Mathieu confessed that his favourite was the japanese one called Kumajirou. The story was about a shy panda who was constantly mistreated by his family, because he was very small for his age. His family said that he was a shame for their family. One day, a wild dog came into the pandas' village. The dog was very hungry and he started to chase the pandas. Because of his petite seize, Kumajirou was the only one who was able to hide from the dog.
Francis wondered if it was because the boy recognized himself in the character of Kumajirou, being quite small and shy himself.
''That is all for tonight, Mathieu.'' Francis said, closing the book. Mathieu looked down at his fingers. He opened to mouth to say something, but closed it before he uttered even a sound. ''Is something wrong ?'' Francis enquired in a gentle voice.
''Could you please...'' Mathieu looked up to his father. ''...reread the part about the white bears ?'' Francis blinked. There had been no white bears in the fairyt-oh. The boy was talking about Jacques Cartier's Travel Diary.
''Of course.''
OoOoO
Mathieu in his arms, Francis could barely contain his excitement as they approached the new room. It had been a close call, but everything had been ready in time. Mathieu blinked curiously, noticing they weren't taking the same path to his room.
''Where are we going ?''
''To your room, Mathieu.'' Francis informed, all smiles. Mathieu wanted to tell his father that he had taken the wrong direction, but he was afraid this might be a little rude. Sensing his son's hesitation, Francis explained himself.
''I have prepared a new room for you.'' He said as they walked passed his own room. ''This is mine.'' He pointed toward his door. ''And this.'' He continued, walking to the door right next to his. ''Is yours from now on.'' Mathieu stared, he couldn't say anything, he didn't know what to say. Francis chuckled at his son's genuine surprise. He opened the door.
Mathieu could not believe this was his room. The room was not only considerably bigger than his old one -it was at least five times bigger- but the furniture, the decoration... it was so tasteful and luxurious, Mathieu feltt overwhelmed again. There most have been a mistake somewhere. He had never had a room like this, so why now ? What this really his room ? All these questions kept running in Mathieu's mind at his father slowly walked around the room, showing his son his new room. The ruled wallpaper was of pale green and blue, and there was a three foot high base of wood on the walls. The floor was wood as well, though there was a very large and very beautiful carpet at the centre of the room. On the corner of the carpet was an opened chest that seemed full of toys of all kinds. The white curtains were opened revealing a beautiful night sky, and even though it was dark, Mathieu could see that his windows gave a fabulous view of the back garden, where the artificial pond was. There was also semitransparent white curtains around his four poster bed. There was a mahogany desk against one of the four walls of the room, on which stood an ink pot, a nib and a good pile of paper. On the opposite wall was very fine mahogany easel, a white canvas was on it, ready to be painted. There was a round table on which Mathieu saw a great variety of different media -ink, pastel, oil paint, charcoal- and of numerous different colours. A few feet away from the easel stood a fireplace, with a mahogany mantelpiece. There was another round table and a very comfortable-looking chair. There was also a small library near the fire place, filled with various books.
''Do you like it ?'' Francis asked, smiling proudly. A long silence followed. Francis blinked, he couldn't see the boy's face very well, seeing as his head was downcast and a few bangs at the front kept most of his face hidden. He saw the boy's shoulders shaking slightly. Worried, Francis knelt in front of his son and gently lift his chin. He was shocked to see his adorable little boy nervously biting his lower lip, big tears threatening to fall. ''Mathieu, are you alright ? You do not like your room ?'' Mathieu shook his head vigorously. ''Perhaps it is too small ?'' Mathieu shook his head harder. ''Is it the colours ? Should I make it redecorated ?'' Mathieu shook his head again and, unable to keep tears any longer, buried his face in his father's chest, crying loudly. Francis was taken aback, but quickly wrapped his arms around the boy, soothing him with gently pats on the boy's back and little comforting words. After a couple of minutes, the boy's sobs calmed down.
''Thank you...'' Mathieu's voice was soft and shaky. ''I love it so much.'' He still couldn't believe it, though. Not even in his most fabulous dreams had he ever imagined a room like that. He didn't know such luxuries even existed before entering his father's castle.
Francis smiled the most happy smile. He smile was soft, and he felt all his being relax. He hadn't even realized how much he had apprehended his moment. He hadn't even realized how much he wanted to please his son and make him happy. He took the boy in his arm and gently tucked him his bed. Mathieu blushed a bit in embarrassment. He felt a little awkward to sleep in such a large and luxurious bed. Francis dried a few remaining tears with the back of his fingers, then planted a kiss on his boy's cheek.
''Sleep well, Mathieu.'' He smiled. Mathieu blushed, looking at his fingers.
''Good night... '' He seemed to want to say something else. Francis knew what he wanted to say. He leaned a bit, expectant, excited. ''...thank you.'' Francis blinked, then smiled softly.
''You're very welcome. If you need anything, just tell me.'' He kissed Mathieu again, then walked to the few candles that were lightening the room. He blew them, leaving only one on the round table, in case Mathieu needed to get up. And in case he was scared of the dark. He gave his son a last smile, then excited the room.
OoOoO
Francis walked back to the library. In fact, he hadn't really noticed he had walked toward the library until he entered it. He sat himself where he usually sat -where he had read stories to his son not to long ago- and sighed. He sat there for a long time, thinking. Thinking about what he had done wrong. Or what he hadn't done. He looked to the side, seeing the pile of books. He eyed them judgmentally. He sighed again.
''Something wrong, sir ?''
''Ah !'' Francis yelled, surprised. ''Dear lord above, when did you come in, Yong Soo ? And why didn't you knock ?''
''I did, sir.'' Yong Soo chuckled. ''I saw you enter the library. I knocked, but you didn't answer. I was worried.'' He explained, eyes indeed reflecting worry. ''What is wrong, sir ?''
Francis stared. He had been so preoccupied that he hadn't even heard Yong Soo knock. He sighed heavily for the third time.
''I really should have bought that pony.'' He mused aloud.
''I beg your pardon ?'' Yong Soo asked, blinking in confusion.
''There must be something that Mathieu wants or need.'' Seeing his servant blinking again, he explained himself. ''When I put Mathieu to bed, I could sense it. He was so close to call me 'papa'... yet, he didn't...'' He said, voice softening into a whisper. He massage his forehead, as if in pain. He was getting a little desperate.
''Mathieu is incredibly shy and obedient. I'm sure he really wants to call you father. However, since you ordered him not to call you that when you first met...'' He trailed off. ''I'm sure that if you asked him to, he's gladly to so.'' Yong Soo explained. Francis frowned, staring at the ground.
''But I don't want to ask him that. I want him to do it instinctively... on his own free will, like it's supposed to be.'' Francis said, closing his eyes. Yong Soo looked at his pitifully.
''How will buying him a pony solve this ?''
''Well...'' Francis didn't really know himself. ''He just seems happy when I make him presents.'' He offered as tentative explanation. Yong Soo chuckled. Francis looked up to him sternly, not finding the matter very funny.
''Hahaha ! But sir, of course he is happy when you give him presents, what child would he be if he didn't ?'' He tapped his master's shoulder playfully. ''But more importantly, he is glad because you, his father, pay attention to him and obviously care for him. However...'' Yong Soo stopped, trying to find the right words.
''However ?''
''I think you don't quite know how to show your love, sir.'' Francis' mouth fell open, dumbfounded. He, Francis, the handsome French marquis, who could have any woman -and man !- he, not knowing about love ? As if reading his mind, Yong Soo continued.
''You are confused with love. Loving a child is not so different from the love you're used to. Think about it, sir. Buying jewelry to a lady is not the only thing to do if you want her to fall in love with you.'' Francis snorted.
''Of course I know this. A woman needs to told she is pretty, to be told that she is loved, to-'' Francis stopped abruptly.
''Exactly.'' Yong Soo nodded. His eyebrows rose in a cocky manner, his smile a little teasing, as usual. ''Have you told Mathieu you loved him ?''
OoOoO
In his room, Francis thought again of his conversation with Yong Soo.
''I am such a stupid old man !'' He whispered loudly, not wanting to wake up the little sleeping blond in the other room. He sat heavily in his chair staring at nothing. His eyes diverted to his bed, then to his pillows. They were white as winter snow. It made him think of the polar bears from the book. Mathieu seemed to be fond of them. He vaguely remembered looking for one when shopping. He had not found a single white stuffed bear. When he had asked for one, he had been looked at with sceptical eyes. He had been told that white bears was a strange idea -not many of the lower class knew the details of the New World or read the book yet, apparently. It did not seemed such a strange idea for Francis, however, since there were plenty pink or blue stuffed bears. To that, he was replied that white was not recommended as a colour, since the child would most likely get it dirty so easily. Francis had not bothered to push on the matter, but now that he thought of it, he knew Mathieu would be incredibly happy to have a white stuffed bear. Yong Soo had said that toys or luxurious clothes wasn't what Mathieu truly needed, but he still couldn't fight back these urges to spoil his adorable son. He'd tell Mathieu he loves him, of course. He'd do that first thing when tomorrow morning. However, that didn't mean he couldn't make his son another present.
With that in mind, Francis rose from his seat again, a huge smile bearing his features. He ran to find a servant. He'd need a needle, scissors and a few other things.
OoOoO
''...thieu... Mathieu... It's time to wake up.'' Mathieu slowly opened his eyes. It was blurry and weirdly shaped. He extended his arms, taking his glasses from the little table beside his bed and slipped them on. He saw his father smiling at him. ''Good morning, Mathieu. Did you sleep well ?''
Mathieu smiled, nodding. He opened his mouth, about to say something, but then noticed the bags under his father's eyes. He cocked his head to the side curiously. He didn't look tired. In fact, his father's eyes were bright with vigour and cheerfulness.
''Good morning.'' He offered politely.
''Before we get you ready for breakfast, there's a present I'd like to give you.'' Mathieu blinked, blushing. He wondered what else there was for him to have. It had seemed to him that he couldn't have more, it seemed impossible. He stared as Francis revealed his present, which had been hiding behind his back. He eyes widened and sparkled with joy. It was a large stuffed bear ! A white bear ! And it was almost as tall as him ! Mathieu took the bear and squeezed it tightly in his arms, giggling as he did so.
He looked up to his father, beaming.
''Thank you !'' Francis smiled back to him. Mathieu giggled again then, his eyes fell on his father's fingers. They were bandaged. He blinked. He looked at his bear. Now that he looked more carefully, the bear didn't look like it had been bought. It had rather prominent imperfections. Imperfections that wouldn't have been there had it been made by a professional. The bear had an ear bigger then the other, the eyes weren't quite aligned with each other. He looked up to his father again. Could it be... ? It couldn't be anything else. Now, the imperfections weren't imperfections anymore. It made the bear more adorable. He loved the bear even more now.
Francis chuckled. It seemed the boy had found out. He took the boy in his arms, sitting him on his lap and caressed his hair a little bit. He suddenly felt very nervous. He tightened his grip around the boy.
''I love you, Mathieu.'' He said softly. The boy looked up to him, wide-eyed. The big blue eyes were soon filled with tears again. Mathieu wrapped his arms around his father's neck, happy like he hadn't been in a long time since his mother's death. ''Will you forgive me ?'' Francis added, his voice failing him. Francis didn't need to explain himself, Mathieu knew what he meant. Mathieu kept his mouth shut, knowing that any word he'd try to pronounce would come out as incoherent sob. Instead, the boy nodded his head vigorously. Francis sighed in relief. His heart was still beating rapidly, though not from the nervousness -it had all faded- but from happiness.
''Mathieu... mon poussin.'' He said, planting kisses on his son's cheeks.
''Papa, papa, papa !'' Mathieu cried happily. His father's beard was tickling him. He giggled.
The pair stayed in each other's arms for a long while, laughing happily, Mathieu keeping calling his father 'papa' as Francis gave him all sorts of different endearments; my angel, my little bunny, my little prince... my son... Soon, the tears and laughs calmed down. Francis looked as Mathieu played with his bear on his lap. He kissed the top of Mathieu,s head.
''Do you have a name for your new friend ?''
Mathieu thought, tapping his mouth with his finger cutely. Francis chuckled. Mathieu clapped his hands excitedly as an idea came to him. He smiled.
''Kumajirou !''
OMG FINALLY !!!!!!!11one!!!! D8
I hope you enjoyed ! Hopefully, the next chapter won't take as long to write. -shot-
Mon poussin = My chick. It's kinda weird in English lol, but in French it really is used as en endearment for children.
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