A/N: There is sexual content in this chapter. There is a line where it starts and where it ends. Enjoy!

Chapter Fifteen: Friendships

Frances awoke the following morning. Her vision was slightly blurry, her body only slightly ached, and strangely her body felt strong which caused her eyebrows to furrow slightly in confusion. She felt Malphas' gentle kiss upon her forehead. She smiled. She blinked her eyes a few times to clear her vision as she stretched.

"Mmmm, good morning, Malphas." She greeted.

Her vision cleared and her eyes widened as she paused in her stretch. A wide grin stretched across her face.

"Good morning, my Frances." Malphas greeted as he smirked softly.

He loved this glimmer in her eyes. He had been able to sense deep down how disappointed she was when he wasn't in his true form when she awoke. Frances' hands reached up and cupped his black sharply defined cheeks. She moved the strand of hair that was covering his sharp nose, the tendrils of darkness softly caressed her hands. He leaned into her touch. She pulled his head down. Her lips met his in a tender kiss. Their song and warmth flooded through them. She began to purr as he warbled in pleasure. They broke apart after a few minutes with her gasping for breath. Malphas continued to warble as he leaned his forehead against her, gently nuzzling her nose. She opened her eyes to see Malphas looking at her. She smiled as she caught her breath.

"You are full… of surprises… lately."

He chuckled darkly and watched amused as a shiver ran through her. He licked her lips.

"And you are my amazing human."

Her eyes opened, a blush bloomed upon her cheeks, and a smile spread across her lips. Her eyes met his. Her fingers gently ran across his cheek.

"I love you, Malphas." She whispered, lovingly.

"I love you, Frances." He said, softly, tenderly.

He pressed his lips to hers gently. She returned the kiss. He pulled away after a few seconds. Their eyes met. He stroked her cheek tenderly. He let out a reluctant sigh as his head bowed between her bosom.

"As much as I would like to let you have the day off, the Young Master has asked for your help with some paperwork today. And… there is an invitation that requires your attention. (He lifted his head up to meet her gaze.) But first, breakfast."

He pulled her up with him, placing her into a sitting position on the edge of the bed. Her eyebrows furrowed, head tilted slightly.

"An invitation? From who?" She asked.

"I'll tell you later, my darling." He said firmly, rolling over the trolley.

She knew it wouldn't do to push him so she let it go, knowing he would tell her later. The dishes were a pretty design with pink roses upon the plate and cup.

"This morning's breakfast is French toast with fried potatoes and sausage links with a scone." Sebastian announced, removing the lid.

The aroma of the food filled her nostrils. She looked up to meet Malphas' fuchsia eyes.

"Thank you, Malphas."

He inclined his head.

"You're welcome as always, my mate. Tea is Earl Grey of Jackson." He announced, elegantly pouring the tea into her teacup.

She smiled and nodded her thanks. She began to eat. Once Malphas was finished with serving her tea, he made his way to her closet. He returned with a dark blue day dress with a light blue triangle in the skirt with matching dark blue heels. He placed the dress upon her bed and the heels on the floor. Malphas sat down beside her as she continued eating her breakfast. His arms wrapped around her waist, he gently laid his head upon her bare shoulder, warbling quietly in pleasure. She leaned her head against his with a small contented sigh. Once she was finished eating, Malphas moved the trolley out of the way. Frances stood and took a few steps forward. She frowned slightly. She… wasn't too sore in her private area. She was a bit, but not so much that she'd flinch as she usually did. Malphas' arms wrapped around her. His warble grew a little louder as he gently teethed her neck. She let out a sigh. Her arms reached up and wrapped around the demon's neck, pulling him closer. He nuzzled the mark he left upon her neck last night. He gave it a soft lick before moving to her ear.

"Your body is accepting my size, my precious mate." He murmured huskily into her ear.

*That makes sense.* She thought.

She shivered and whimpered as his claws raked up her sides as he slowly and sensually rocked into her, his tendrils of darkness caressed every inch of her. He pressed a kiss to her ear.

"Mmm. Too tempting, my darling. Come. I must get you dressed." Malphas said, running his hands over her arms and disentangling her from him.

"Yes, Malphas." She sighed.

He smiled. He spun her around so she was facing him. He quickly dressed her for the day, including placing her hair into a half bun. Once she was dressed, Sebastian transformed into his human form and led her to her Office, taking care of disposing the breakfast tray on the way. Once at her Office, Sebastian excused himself so she may get started on the paperwork that was waiting for her.

An hour passed by when Sebastian returned which was perfect timing as she had just finished the paperwork. He walked through the door after knocking and awaiting her answer.

"Impeccable timing, as usual, Sebastian. I just finished." Frances said, placing the last signed document onto her pile.

Sebastian didn't respond. Instead, he crossed the room and placed a tray with water and an invitation with a familiar scroll of her name. Frances' eyes widened slightly. She now knew the reason he was angry and irritated yesterday when she and the Young Master found a compartment on the train. And why he was so… possessive last night. She turned the envelope over and saw the familiar spider seal. She opened it up, took out the letter, and began to read.

*Dear Frances,

On behalf of the Earl Alois Trancy, I write to Lady Frances Harkness this day to apologize for my Master's discourtesy for abruptly leaving Lord Ciel Phantomhive's manor and for ignoring you. In order to rectify this, Lord Alois Trancy wishes to take a stroll through Hyde Park this Saturday at one in the afternoon. We hope that you will attend.

Sincerely, Lord Alois Trancy.

As written by Claude Faustus Butler of Alois Trancy.*

Frances felt she should go. She couldn't explain her attachment to Alois. She just felt… connected to him. She looked up at Sebastian who was watching her closely.

"You're going."

A smirk spread upon his lips. He placed a hand over his heart.

"But, of course."

He straightened. She nodded.

"Just be civil with him. Unless he attacks first, don't do anything."

Sebastian's eyes flashed fuchsia as he knelt to the ground with a hand over his heart, head bowed.

"Yes, my lady."

She shook her head.

"Should we tell the Young Master? We shouldn't leave him here either, especially with those other demons. They may try to take him…"

Sebastian stood to his full height, smiling softly at her.

"Not to worry, my Frances. I shall place a barrier around the manor in case they do try to take him. As for telling the Young Master, that is up to you."

Frances nodded.

"We might as well." She said, getting out of her seat, "Is he busy right now?" She asked, looking at Sebastian.

"Not at this present time, no." He answered.

"All right. Let's go let him know. I'd also like to go shopping for a new dress and bluebell flowers. Perhaps Lady Elizabeth could occupancy us." She suggested as she walked past the demon butler, taking his hand.

The two of them smiled contentedly as they walked out of her Office hand in hand. Once to the Young Master's Office, Sebastian knocked on the door.

"Come in." The Young Master called.

Sebastian opened the door for her.

"Thank you." She said.

Sebastian nodded. They walked further into the room.

"Frances." The Young Master greeted.

"Good afternoon, Ciel."

"I take it the paperwork is finished?" He asked.

"Of course. Though, that isn't what I came to talk to you about. (He looked up from his own paperwork. He raised an eyebrow telling her to go on.) I received an invitation from Alois Trancy to go to Hyde Park this Saturday."

A frown formed on the Young Master's face. They could feel the confusion from the boy. After a few seconds, he spoke,

"He makes no sense. If he wants me, why is he only inviting you?"

Sebastian raised an eyebrow at him.

"My, my, Young Master. It sounds like you're jealous."

The Young Master jolted. He stared at Sebastian with a wide eye and gaping mouth. Suddenly, he gritted his teeth and his eye narrowed into a glare.

"Not at all. I do not want him around me. He's too…"

"Emotional?" Frances filled in.

"Mercurial." The Young Master stated, placing a hand to his forehead in annoyance.

"I don't think even he knows what he wants which is why he's bored all the time." She said.

The Young Master shook his head with a sigh. He placed his elbow on the desk and leaned his head against his fist.

"Fine. Go ahead and go. See if you can get anything more from him."

Frances smiled.

"Of course. I was wondering though, if you'd like to go shopping with me on Friday. I am also inviting Lizzie to join as well."

He sighed softly, though a small blush appeared upon his cheeks. He glanced away.

"Very well. (They both shared a smile and a smirk. The Young Master looked up at Sebastian.) You are accompanying Frances Saturday, correct?"

"Indeed."

The Young Master gave a sharp nod.

"Good. Prepare the invitation to Elizabeth from Frances and I." He ordered.

"Yes, my lord." Sebastian said, placing a hand on his chest and bowing slightly.

Friday arrived rather quickly. Unfortunately, Lady Elizabeth declined the invitation as she had already accepted an invitation to a ball. The Young Master also changed his mind as he wanted them to spend some time alone seeing as it was rare for that to happen. The couple did not mind at all. So after breakfast, the two of them departed to London in the carriage Sebastian ordered.

Once they arrived at London, the carriage parked, Sebastian stepped out wearing his butler uniform. He turned and held his white gloved hand out to assist Frances out. She took the offered hand and stepped onto the pavement. She was wearing a simple grey day dress with her hair elegantly placed in a bun, upon her feet she wore black boots.

"Where to first, my lady?" Sebastian asked, releasing her hand.

"Let's try this way." She said, pointing down the pavement in front of them.

He nodded.

"Very well."

They spent the morning looking through a few different shops for the perfect dress. As she looked through the stores, she also found things her siblings would like so she purchased them as well. They had exited the third shop with a few things for her siblings. The two of them ducked into an alleyway. She sent her gifts to her secret place when suddenly, she felt someone was near, someone familiar.

"Frances?" Sebastian asked.

"FRANCESSSSSSSS!"

A blur of red raced over and engulphed her in a hug. Frances laughed as she wrapped her arms around Grell. Sebastian looked on with irritation.

"Hello, Grell." Frances greeted, calmly, laughter was evident in her voice, "We really need to do a monthly date so we can catch up."

Grell pulled away from her, a bright jealous gleam in his eyes.

"Yes! Because I have a death threat to give you for that picture of you kissing MY Bassy and the fact that I now just realized you have his scent! And have for months now! (He stomped his foot.) I'm so jealous! (He grabbed her hands and leaned close to her face.) Details, girl! Details! Is he as good as I think he is?!"

Frances blushed bright red.

"I'm-I'm not telling you!" She shouted, embarrassed.

Grell's grin grew bigger. A chuckled escaped his lips.

"You just did, my dear. We can do a threesome, one day!"

Frances took her hands out of Grell's and abruptly turned away from him.

"No, Grell. That is NEVER happening."

"But…"

"Goodbye, Grell." Frances said, walking out of the alleyway.

Sebastian made to follow her when…

"She doesn't know what you're doing to her, does she?"

Those words halted the demon in his tracks. Grell smirked. He walked up to the demon butler, placing a hand on the demon's chest.

"Her powers will help her figure it out. (He leaned his body against him.) They always do. Once it's complete (He reached a hand to cup Bassy's cheek. Sebastian gripped his wrist tightly, preventing him from touching him. Grell's grin widened.), do you think she will be pleased? She'll outlive her precious siblings instead of joining them as she always has."

Sebastian grabbed the Reaper's shirt and threw him against the brick wall. Grell groaned as he fell to the floor. Frances raced back to them, having felt Grell's smugness and Sebastian's anger, irritation, hidden guilt, and worry.

"Sebastian, are you all right?" She asked.

Sebastian dusted his hands. He fixed his collar. He looked at her with a close-eyed smile.

"Yes. He was just being irritating as usual."

Frances looked at him then at Grell then back to him.

"All right then, let's go." Frances said, taking his hand.

She led him out the alleyway. Once they were out, they released each other's hands. The second they released one another, their hands started to tingle. They looked at each other and smiled softly. They continued to look for a dress. Finally, just before lunch, Frances found the perfect dress. They stopped at a flower shop to purchase some bluebells. After that, they stopped for lunch. Once she finished eating, they returned to the manor.

The following day was her outing with Alois. There was nothing planned but that so she spent the morning strolling through the garden and writing a letter to Irene and sending her a gift as it was her birthday. She smiled as she felt her happiness and thankfulness. She hummed the tune attached to her. A sharp, strong, deep yet melodious and whimsical tune. When she finished, she placed a hand on her heart, her eyes closed.

"Happy birthday, Irene." She whispered.

Once it was closer to the time to depart for her outing with Alois, Mey-rin helped her get dressed. Once it was time to leave, Sebastian escorted her to the carriage. Before they exited the manor, he turned to the servants and ordered them to take care of the Young Master while they were away. They saluted him with a "Yes, sir.". Sebastian escorted her outside and assisted Frances into the carriage. He turned to the manor and held out his hand. Frances watched a black barrier surround the manor. Once finished, he climbed into the driver's seat and they took off to Hyde Park.

They arrived in no time. Sebastian parked the carriage. He opened the door. Frances placed her small dark blue gloved hand into his. She slowly stepped out of the carriage. Once on solid ground, she lightly ran her hand over the skirt of her dress to fix any wrinkles. Her dress was a light blue that flared out at her hips, peeking out at the bottom was one of the three petticoats of a darker blue. At the bottom of the skirt were embroidered bluebells. She wore white stockings with light blue heels. Around her waist was a dark blue ribbon. The sleeves of the light blue dress ended at her wrists. She wore no jewelry today. Her hair was elegantly curled and pinned into an elegant wavy bun with two strands framing her face. In the right corner by her ear, a bluebell flower was placed. In her hands, was a bouquet of the same flowers wrapped in green paper. She walked a few steps forward, feeling someone was coming. She stopped when she felt Sebastian's hand grip her own. She looked up into his concerned, yet determined eyes. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

"Be safe."

She smiled and squeezed back.

"Always." She whispered.

He smiled. He released her hand and bowed.

"My Lady."

He straightened and took his leave.

Frances only had to wait a few seconds when she heard a gasp from in front of her. She turned her body fully to the approaching Alois who was wearing his usual clothes except for the purple coat as it was a rather warm day. Tears fell from his eyes as he approached her.

"Bluebell flowers." He stated, tearfully staring at the bouquet of flowers. His teary eyes met hers, "How-How did you know?"

She smiled.

"I remembered you seemed to be quite fond of them when I last visited you. (She handed him the bouquet. He continued to stare at her. She smiled.) These are for you." She said.

His eyes widened. He accepted them as he looked at them. He looked back up at her.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

They stayed in silence for a few minutes. Frances broke the silence.

"Shall we take a stroll?" She asked.

He nodded. They began their walk. Frances could feel their eyes watching them.

Claude and Sebastian stood on the roof of a building across from the park, watching as they turned to the park's entrance and began to walk through.

"She certainly is an interesting human." Claude commented, "I can see why you wish to make her yours."

Sebastian narrowed his eyes at him.

"What is it that your Master wants with mine?"

"I knew I sensed a particularly strong attachment to the boy, but this is just pathetic."

"He is unlike any human you've ever seen. I cultivated his soul to my preference and you stole the part of him that helped cultivate it. Just remembering makes me sick."

Claude smirked. He glanced at Sebastian with amusement and desire in his eyes.

"Just remembering the feeling of the despair he and his paternal family felt… (Claude looked at his fingers and flexed them as he recalled the power of despair he felt.) One rarely encounters something so fine. It makes me wonder how the rest of him would taste."

Sebastian snarled, his red eyes flashed fuchsia.

"We will not let you lay your filthy sticky white spider hands on him."

"Ah, yes. You and that human are protective of him… Though, three more full moons and she's…" Claude trailed off.

Their attention went to the conversation Alois and Frances began to have.

Frances and Alois had begun their walk through the park. Frances could feel the anger, irritation, annoyance, and protectiveness coming from Sebastian as well as the smugness and desire from Claude. She sent Sebastian calmness and love. Alois had blinked away his tears, holding the bouquet of bluebells close to his chest.

"I… want to apologize for the way I rudely walked out of Ciel's home and for ignoring you… It's just… I want him to be my friend."

Frances' eyes widened.

"Oh, Alois." She whispered, recalling how he said his home was boring, it was because he was lonely, she realized, "I'm so sorry for not realizing."

He shrugged.

"That day we played together was the most fun I had in years, but then (His eyes darkened.), you and Ciel ruined it by asking questions."

She sighed.

"If the roles were reversed, wouldn't you like to know the reason you were wanted by someone? Especially, by someone you didn't know?" She questioned.

He looked at her with surprise. He shook his head.

"No. All that matters is someone being by my side forever!" He snapped.

Her eyes widened.

*He wants someone to love, forever.* She thought, *Someone who won't ever leave him.*

"Oh, Alois."

She wrapped her arms around him. His eyes widened. He tried to shove away from her.

"Piss off! Let me go!" Alois cried, continuing to shove her away from him.

He pulled his leg back. Sebastian growled in her mind. She sent him calmness.

*I've got him, my mate.* She sent him as she spoke to Alois.

"No, your Highness (Alois stiffened in her arms at the nickname she called him. She hugged him tighter to her feeling his shock, confusion, and want yet unwillingness.) I can't explain it, but I love you. You are afraid to lose someone again so you cling to those you can. You do not have to fear with me. I am not going anywhere, Alois."

Tears filled his eyes again. They fell down his cheeks as he wrapped his arms around her, his leg lowering.

"Promise?" He asked her.

She leaned her head against his.

"I promise."

They embraced each other for a long time. She parted from him though, she still held onto his shoulders.

"To show you how much I promise, how about we do a once a month outing?"

"Really?" He asked, his hand clenching into fists with excitement.

"Yes, really."

"What would we do?" He asked her.

She shrugged.

"Whatever you wish."

He clapped his hand together excitedly.

"Okay! Today doesn't count though! I'll pick the day and decide where to have our outing."

Frances nodded with a smile.

"All right."

"Yay!"

Alois clapped excitedly again.

"Come on!" He shouted, tugging her arm.

Frances laughed, allowing herself to be dragged by him.

Another forty-five minutes passed, during which they wandered through the park, looking at the pond, walking through the rose garden, and enjoying the peacefulness the nature brought. A few people were out and about, though not as many as usual as it was a warm day being Summer and all. Alois had attempted to push her into the lake, however, she held her ground. When he pouted, she asked him if he really wanted her to get wet and ruin her dress. He pouted and replied, "No.". She smiled and patted his head with a, "Silly boy.". He smiled brightly at that. They were making their way to the entrance of the rose garden when Claude approached them.

"Your Highness," He said, "it is time to take our leave."

Alois pouted.

"Already?"

"I'm afraid so." Claude said, not even blinking.

"I don't want to go yet." Alois whined, crossing his arms and turning away from him towards Frances.

"Alois." She called.

He looked at her.

"We're going to have another outing soon. The sooner you get home, the sooner you can think of what we'll do, where we'll do said activity or activities, then write an invitation to me. The days will pass by quickly for us to see each other when you have fun. So, add in a few dance classes, all right?"

He smiled brightly.

"Okay!"

They walked to the entrance of Hyde Park where Sebastian was waiting. He bowed.

"My Lady." He said.

Frances smiled at Sebastian.

"Sebastian." She greeted, inclining her head.

She turned back to Alois. She held out her arms. He raced into them, squeezing her tightly. She squeezed back just as tightly, leaning her head against his. They pulled away after a moment.

"See you soon, Alois."

"See ya soon, Frances."

They waved goodbye to each other as Alois and Claude walked down the road. Once Alois turned around, Frances looked at Sebastian who was smirking at her. She smiled brightly at him. He held out his hand, gesturing her to the carriage.

"Shall we be off, my lady?"

"Yes, let's."

He opened the door for her and held his hand out to assist her into the carriage. She accepted his assistance. Once she was settled inside, Sebastian closed the door. He climbed into the driver's seat and took off back to the manor.

Once they arrived at the manor, Sebastian opened the carriage door and grabbed a hold of her hips. She could feel his urgency and… She shivered, desire. He quickly entered the manor with her, the black barrier disappeared as they walked through the door. He took her to the Young Master's Office, setting her upon her feet. He knocked on the door.

"Come in."

They entered after Sebastian opened the door. The Young Master looked up at them.

"Well, did you find anything new?" He asked them.

"Yes. He wants you to be his friend. However, it's more than that. I believe he wants to replace his brother with you."

The Young Master raised an eyebrow.

"That's what made him so angry and why he wouldn't tell us this reason?"

"No." Frances stated, shaking her head, "I believe Claude might have fed him some lies. The way he smirked at Sebastian that day… The way Claude's coming after you, Sebastian's soul contract. It's as if he is trying to prove he's better."

The Young Master turned his gaze to Sebastian.

"I thought it was against your kinds' aesthetic to lie."

Sebastian smirked.

"When entering a contract, there are rules set by the contractee to which we must follow, if Alois did not order Claude not to lie to him, Claude could do so as he wishes."

The Young Master frowned. Suddenly, he glared. He pulled his eyepatch off. His contract symbol gleamed a bright light purple.

"Sebastian, this is an order, bring Alois Trancy to me so I may kill him."

Frances' eyes widened.

"No, Ciel! You can't!" She exclaimed.

At the same time, however, the contract symbol in Ciel's eye stopped glowing so brightly. It was still a light purple, however, it was no longer glowing.

"I'm afraid I cannot execute that order, Young Master." Sebastian said, calmly.

The Young Master glared at the two of them.

"Why not?!" The Young Master demanded, standing from his chair, slamming his hands upon his desk.

Sebastian wrapped an arm around Frances' waist. His nose skimmed the side of her face as his hand gently laid over his mark on her chest. Her eyes closed, a quiet moan escaped her lips, her body trembled against him.

*Mal-ph-as.*

Sebastian smirked against her cheek. He turned his head to the Young Master who now sported a blush making his angry look ineffective.

"My mate has a… soft spot for the boy, so I cannot fulfill that order." Sebastian explained.

"How can you love such a finicky, emotional, childish brat like him?" The Young Master asked, incredulously.

Sebastian took his hand off his mark. Frances took a deep gulp of air. Once her breath was under control, she glared at Sebastian. He smiled innocently. She coughed, turned her attention to the still red faced Ciel.

"I love you, don't I? (Ciel flinched back in shock.) I can't help whom I love, Ciel."

It was quiet for a moment. They could feel his confusion and slight anger and jealousy.

"Then… why do you let Sebastian continue to have a contract with me?"

Frances' eyes softened.

"You made that decision. (Ciel's eye widened.) As you have said before, it's what a person owes to their servant. And… (She looked at Sebastian.) I believe demons should eat as well. (Sebastian's eyes flashed fuchsia. His warble grew louder in her mind. She looked back at the Young Master whose eye remained wide while his feelings turned to understanding and regret for being angry.) Alois isn't that much of a threat, Ciel. He's just… troubled. While I understand that you are annoyed and angry with what he's done, as both you and Sebastian rightly should, perhaps I can find some way to convince him to give me the part of your soul."

The Young Master stared at her in contemplative silence. Finally, he sighed.

"Very well." He said, sitting down in his chair, a hand to his head, his other hand made a shooing motion.

Sebastian quickly picked her up and bowed.

"Excuse us, Young Master."

Suddenly, they were in her room. Sebastian was already reverting to his demon form. His tongue licked her neck.

*Precious mate.*

He placed her on the bed, slowly sliding himself inside her. She threw her head back.

"Mal-ph-as!" She gasped.

*Yes, my precious human. You are so beautiful. My kind deserve to eat? (He bit her neck hard enough to bruise. She gasped and arched her back.) Mmm, you taste so sweet, my rosy peaches. (He licked her sweet blood. She shivered. Her hands flew to his shoulders.) You found out Alois Trancy's desire.*

His teeth dragged along her neck, deep enough to cut her, to her chin which he nibbled on. She whimpered.

"M-Mal—"

He cut her off as he bit her chin deeply. She cried out.

*You are amazing (He licked the blood off her chin.), selfless (He licked her left cheek.), accepting (He licked her forehead.), respectful (He licked her right cheek.), insightful (He licked down her nose.), beautiful."

He kissed her lips as the both of them thrusted. They both moaned into the kiss. He slipped his tongue into her mouth as he slowly thrusted in and out of her relishing in each of her gasps, moans, and beautiful sighs. He kissed each of her scars from the angel that he revamped with his own marks.

*Protective.*

His tendrils of darkness caressed her body as his claws traced each of her scars. She made a come-hither gasp before moaning again, her body twitched as he touched each scar.

*Strong.*

He placed a kiss upon her heart, upon his mark.

*Loving.*

That sent her over the edge. He made sure she went over first before he did for he wanted to pleasure her for how easily she was able to gain the answers they sought.

He continued to pleasure her past dinnertime, leaving dinner preparations to Baldroy. He finally allowed her to sleep at nine forty-five, seeing as he still had his duty to the boy despite wanting to remain by her side. Once he finished readying the boy for bed, who was blushing a bright red (Much to his amusement.), he returned to her room. He shedded his human form, gathering her into his arms, and curled protectively around her with his legs and wings. His eyes glowing a bright, haunting, entrancing fuchsia.

"My Frances." He warbled/purred.

Frances slowly opened her eyes. Her vision was slightly blurry and her body ached, mostly in her lower region. Though, once again, it wasn't as painful as it had been before when he made love to her throughout the night. Malphas was running his hand through her hair as his other hand was wrapped gently around her waist. She smiled. She wrapped her arms around his neck, snuggling her face into his chest. His arms tightened around her, burying his head into her hair. As she recalled the afternoon and evening, a bright, bright red blush that went down to her neck appeared upon her face. Malphas began to chuckle. He leaned back to see her beautiful red face, his fuchsia eyes glinted in amusement. Her blush grew impossibly darker. She buried her head into his neck.

"Malphas." She whined, embarrassed.

He continued chuckling. His other hand stopped running through her hair to move to her chin. However, Frances had other ideas. She began to nibble and lick the left side of his neck as she slid her right hand to his chest, moving up and down it. The demon's warble/purr stopped for a second, his fuchsia eyes widened and a gasp escaped him. His eyes closed as his warble/purr began again louder than before. She smiled against his neck, her blush calming down. Her other hand moved to run through his hair.

"My Malphas." She sighed, trailing her bites to his ear, "I love you."

His mouth opened, letting the warble sound out. He pushed her back gently. His fuchsia eyes bore into her with love, warmth, and possessiveness.

"I love you, my Frances."

They began to lean towards one another when suddenly, her stomach made a rather loud noise as it clenched tightly in hunger. Frances' eyes widened as she stared at her stomach in shock. She had been starved for many days when she lived with her parents so she was used to hunger pains, however, her stomach never made such a loud rumble before. Malphas blinked in surprise. A gentle smirk spread upon his lips. He relished in the fact that he made her hungry. She looked away, past his shoulder.

*I think I need to practice not eating again…* She thought.

Malphas growled. She looked at him startled. His clawed hand reached up and took her chin into his vice like grip. His face hovered inches in front of hers.

"You do not need to practice not eating. You need your energy from the night I gave you. You are going to eat and eat well, do you understand, Frances?!" The demon snarled.

"But…"

She flinched slightly as he tightened his hold.

"You are going. To eat. Even if I must feed you myself."

Suddenly, an image of him feeding her in this form wearing an apron that covered his lower region appeared in her mind. She could see him kneeling down beside her, cutting her food into bite sized pieces, blowing on the food to cool it down. A snort of laughter escaped her lips. Malphas released her in shock at the image. She flopped onto her back and laughed so hard that tears were flowing down her cheeks. She had never laughed like this in her entire life. Malphas hovered over her with his right hand holding himself up by her head, the other by her waist.

"Are you quite finished?" He asked her, irritation flowing from him.

"I-I'm sorry." She giggled, her laughter slowly dying down.

She wiped the tears from her eyes with a breathy huff from laughing so hard. His gaze softened. It was rare to see her laugh. She was always content and happy, but hardly anything amused her to the point of laughter. He supposed that despite what a monstrosity the image was (Not to mention inaccurate.), it was worth seeing her beautiful face aglow with pure happiness. He gently caressed her cheek.

"Cheeky brat." He murmured.

She smiled, softly. She turned her head, placed a kiss upon the center of his palm, then turned back to look into his eyes lovingly.

"I love you." She said, softly.

He smiled gently.

"I love you, Frances."

She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, leaning up and kissing him. He returned the kiss. They pulled away with her gasping. He smiled. Suddenly, his face became stern.

"You are still going to eat."

Frances gave a huff of laughter as she caught her breath. Her hand moved his bangs out of his eyes.

"Yes, Malphas."

He gave a stern nod.

"Good woman."

He stood elegantly. He moved her over to the edge of her bed, sitting her up. His long claws gently scratched her shoulders as he moved away. He went and retrieved the trolley, pushing it towards her. A huge smile of amusement appeared upon her face to hide her giggles. He shook his head. He removed the tray's lid.

"Today's breakfast consist of pancakes, scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, with bacon and sausage as well as a whole loaf of freshly baked bread. To accompany it is orange juice."

The smell of the food flooded her nostrils. Her stomach growled loudly once again.

"Thank you, Malphas." She said, picking up her knife and fork.

She instantly took a forkful of eggs into her mouth before cutting into the pancakes. Malphas smiled fondly at her. When she was nearly finished, he went to the bathroom to start her bath. Once Frances was finished with her food and drink, she moved the trolley away from her. She stood, wobbling a little from the pain in between her legs. When she regained her balance, she stretched her body out wincing slightly at the pain in her private anatomy. She lowered her arms, looking towards the bathroom door to see Malphas exit out of it.

"Thank you, Malphas." She said, approaching him.

She leaned up and kissed his cheek. He smiled as she pulled away. They continued to do what they had to do for the day.

The days passed as usual with more invitations to balls. They accepted a few of them and even ran into Alois and Lizzie at some of them. Lizzie had come over for her once a month visit.

She had once again redressed them all including Mey-rin who was made to wear a bright pink dress with a pink bonnet. She looked like Bo Peep, all she needed was a hook. Bard had been dressed in a bright yellow extremely frilly dress with his hair in the style of an opera singer with red roses placed in various parts. Finny was dressed in a light blue off the shoulder straps dress. He was given translucent light blue butterfly wings. His hair was braided into a crown at the front of his head. Little Man Tanaka was dressed as a ladybug with a red dress with black dots. Lady Elizabeth even placed a long black haired wig on him with a black headband that had two antennas popping up. Frances was dressed in a dark pink dress (That she put on herself as usual.) with her hair curled and flowing down her back. A pretty sparkling silver crown was placed on top of her head. Her nails were painted pink. She wore matching pink heels. The Young Master dressed in a lovely blue suit though it was slightly lighter in shade than the previous outfit she dressed him in last year. This one had a matching light blue hat with a white rose in the corner. Sebastian was able to get out of it by being polite and excusing himself to make snacks for the party. Frances helped Lizzie change into a beautiful red dress with a black choker and two little white roses on it. In her usual pigtailed hair, she also wore a white rose in each pigtail.

As they played dress up, they talked about inviting Prince Soma and Agni. Frances asked if she could invite a new friend. Lizzie's eyes sparkled and she said, "Of course!" with sparkles in her eyes. Two phone calls later, Prince Soma and Agni enthusiastically agreed, however, Alois informed her he couldn't before reaffirming that she was still coming over to watch his dance lesson next Thursday. She told him yes, she was still coming over, she had just wanted to invite him over to a party Lady Elizabeth was having. He giggled, thanking her for the invite and she could hear and feel his regret. It was a fun day filled with laughter, smiles, and fun. Even Ciel managed to smile a little.

Frances smiled as she recalled that day during breakfast. Today, however, was Friday and shopping day. She didn't have much to do, just looking over the reports of profits and losses of the different factories and safety issues, and ballet class. Frances asked if she could go shopping with them when Malphas relayed her schedule earlier that morning. Malphas raised an eyebrow. She explained that it had been a while since she hung out with her friends. He agreed after hearing her reasoning. She walked out of the dining room with the Young Master. Sebastian was talking to the three servants. Little Man Tanaka was taking it easy, sitting in the servants' room drinking his tea.

"You three behave yourselves. Only buy what I wrote on the list. And most importantly, take care of the Mistress."

"Yes, sir!" The three of them saluted.

They all turned to the Young Master and Frances as they entered the foyer. Frances smiled at them.

"You three ready to go?" She asked.

"Yes, Frances!" They exclaimed, excitedly.

Frances smiled and nodded.

"All right. (She turned to Ciel.) Have a good day, Ciel."

"You as well, Frances." Ciel said. He turned to the servants, "Take care of her as you would me." He ordered.

"Yes, my lord!" They exclaimed, saluting him.

Ciel gave a small smile. He turned and began making his way up the stairs. Frances turned to Sebastian who held a firm look.

"Be safe." He ordered.

She smiled. Her hand tingled as she yearned to caress his cheek, however, the others were in the room and while they knew of the relationship, Frances nor Sebastian wanted them to see their exchanges of intimacy.

"Always." She answered.

His eyes softened. He nodded.

"Very good."

She walked out the door, the others followed suit. Sebastian assisted her in as Bard climbed into the driver's seat. She thanked him. The other two climbed in. Once they were seated, Sebastian closed the door then knocked on the door to signal Bard. They took off down the driveway to London.

The trip to the London shops were quick. They were currently in their second shop for a few purchases they couldn't get at the first store. As her friends were looking for products on the list, Frances was looking at soap for herself. Suddenly, the feeling that someone she knew was nearby filled her. She looked up with a smile. She placed the soap down as she glanced at Finny and Mey-rin who were nearby.

"I'll be right back!" She told them.

Before they could answer, she was already out the shop door. Bard looked down from the driver's seat of their carriage.

"Oi, Mistress!" He exclaimed.

"I'll be back in a second, Bard. Stay there!" She ordered.

She ran down several alleyways, feeling the pull grow stronger as well as… sensing other Reapers close by to the Reaper she knew.

*Maybe he's training new recruits.* She thought.

Her eyes darted up to the rafters. She smiled widely when she saw him at the corner of the building at the end of the alleyway.

"Will!" She called, excitedly.

His yellow-green eyes looked at her from only the corner of a building. She waved happily at him. His eyes widened. He jumped down, landing perfectly on the ground. He lifted his head and looked her squarely in the eyes.

"Will, I've missed you!"

She stepped forward with her arms out. He took a step back, his yellow-green eyes glaring harshly at her. She flinched slightly as she stopped, feeling the disgust and anger radiating from him.

*How can Grell like this look?* She wondered, ideally.

She lowered her arms, realizing he knew that she was mated to a demon. She could feel the worry and anger from said demon.

"Will, please. I understand you hate demons, but I promise you, he's different. He's kind, caring, loving, protective, and so much more. I love him…"

Will shook his head, still glaring at her. Suddenly, he disappeared from view.

Frances let out a sigh. Tears filled her eyes as she could still feel the disgust from him. After a few minutes, she shook her head, took a deep breath, and wiped her tears away. She pushed his feelings back, allowing Malphas' warmth, comfort, and love that he sent her, fill her. She walked out of the alleyway and made her way back to her friends.

"Ah, Mistress!" Finny exclaimed when he saw her exit out of the alley.

"We were so worried, yes!" Mey-rin shouted, taking her hands.

"Where did the fire happen, Mistress?" Bard demanded.

"I'm sorry, guys. I saw a friend of mine whom I haven't seen in a while and wanted to say hello." She explained, not telling them the whole truth.

Her heart hurt though as she knew he probably did not want to be her friend any longer…. She dared not allow it to reflect upon her face how upset she truly was. They sighed with relief that she was all right.

"Come along, Mistress. We still have two more places to go." Mey-rin said, pulling her towards the carriage.

The rest of the trip went by smoothly with Frances thinking of what she could do to help Will accept this. She knew he hated demons for the fact they made his workload harder, but Sebastian didn't do such things. He didn't eat souls outside his contracted ones, despite how hungry he was and if he hadn't stopped the angel, she knew there would be much more work for them. Perhaps she could explain this to him once he calmed down. She would give him a few days to come to terms with this.

They pulled up to the manor. Sebastian immediately opened the door. His red eyes held his worry, concern, and love.

*I'm all right, Malphas. Let me help them with bringing the groceries in. We can talk after.* She sent him as she accepted his hand.

His eyes narrowed. He knew she wasn't all right, but he would let it slide. For now.

*We will talk later.* He sent her.

She smiled softly and lovingly. She walked towards the back where the packages were. Between her, Sebastian, and their friends, the groceries were brought in and put away in no time. She smiled at her friends.

"Thank you all for letting me join you. I had a fun time."

"Me too!" Finny shouted, happily.

"Yes! Yes!" Mey-rin agreed.

"Of course." Bard said, smiling with a cigarette between his teeth.

Frances smiled wider.

"Please, excuse me. I have some business to attend to." She said.

They nodded. She walked out the door with Sebastian following after her. They made their way to her Office quietly. Sebastian opened the door for her. She thanked him quietly. She entered with Sebastian behind her. She stood just inside the doorway. Sebastian closed the door. His arms wrapped around her waist, finding her hands, and entwining them with his. Her eyes looked down at nothing in particular. His bangs tickled her ear as he leaned down to whisper into it.

"Talk to me, Frances."

Tears instantly filled her eyes.

"I knew he wouldn't take us mating well and I know and understand that he hates demons, but I never thought he would just… glare at me with such malice… He hates me now… (A tear slipped down her cheek.) But, maybe if I give him time, he'll be okay with this. (She turned in his arms, looking up at his stoic face. She could feel his doubt, but she wouldn't give up. Not yet. She reached her hand up and caressed his cheek.) With us."

Malphas warbled quietly in pleasure as he leaned into her touch. He reopened his eyes and gently placed his gloved hand upon her cheek.

"You have such faith in people, Frances. I fear I should worry, however, I don't because I know you. I know this is how you are."

She smiled softly, leaning into his touch as he wiped the tear trail away.

"I love you." She whispered, tenderly.

He smiled softly at her.

"I love you, my Frances."

He nuzzled her nose. He pressed his lips against hers in a lovingly tender kiss. She returned the kiss, pressing her body against his. His warble grew louder. They parted with her gasping for breath. They leaned against one another's forehead. Her eyes closed, she began to hum their song, her chin tilted closer to his lips. Her eyes opened as he joined her humming. His arms wrapped around her waist as hers wrapped around his neck. Once the song ended, he gently pressed his lips against hers.

"Precious." He murmured against her lips.

"My loving demon." She whispered.

They pulled away. His hand reached up and gently caressed her cheek. She leaned into his touch. She reopened her eyes, looking lovingly at him.

"Time for work, little one." He said, regretfully.

She sighed and nodded.

"Yes, Malphas."

She moved to her desk as Malphas left her to do her paperwork.

After a few hours, she finished her paperwork just in time for her dance class. After her lesson was finished, she dined with Ciel and then played chess afterwards in the game room. Once ten o'clock hit, Sebastian came for Ciel to ready the boy for bed. They exchanged goodnights to each other. Frances made her way to her room. She dressed in a purple nightgown, taking out her hairdo, allowing her hair to flow down her back. She took off her black rose necklace, placing it in her jewelry box. She made her way to her bed. She laid underneath the covers and turned her body to watch the door.

As the door opened, she jolted.

"Frances?" Malphas asked as he entered the room.

"Will is coming." She told him.

"I shall see to him."

She sat up and moved to the edge of the bed.

"I want to be there to talk to him too."

Malphas walked over to her and knelt on one knee. He took her hand into his.

"My darling, allow me to speak to him, to help him realize that my love for you runs deep."

She blushed prettily.

"Malphas…"

He cut her off with a tender kiss. Her arms wrapped around his neck, her fingers going through his hair. His hands trailed down her arms. She whimpered into the kiss as she felt them transform into claws. It was a strange sensation and yet… she arched closer to the transforming demon. It was as if he was smoke, like his tendrils of darkness, for a moment before becoming a solid form. His clawed hands gently pushed her shoulders down so she was laying on the bed. He ravished her body until one in the morning when he finally allowed her to rest. His hand rested on her hip as his other arm curled around her back. Her head and left hand were resting on his chest with her right arm wrapped around his waist. He watched his precious mate sleep.

He knew the true reason William was disgusted with her. He wanted—needed it to be a surprise for her. This was his gift for her. She proved how much she loved him by dying for him now… he would return the favor and make her stronger, not only for herself, but for him as well. He is a selfish creature after all. She knows that better than anyone.

As the time hit two in the morning, Malphas' eyes glanced to her window in irritation. He transformed back into his human form. He smirked as Frances shuddered, a whimper emitted from her lips, and she pressed herself closer to him. Once he was back in his human form, he pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, sending her comfort, love, and reassurance as he slipped out of her hold. She sighed softly, curling into herself. He chuckled lightly.

"I'll be back soon, my Frances." He whispered.

He slipped into his butler uniform. He walked out the servants' door. He quickly made his way to the front of the manor. It didn't take long for him to show up.

William T. Spears was dressed in his usual black and white suit though, his hair was a tad bit messy from constantly pulling at it and running his hands through it in agitation. His yellow-green eyes narrowed in an intense glare. This monster. This demon had ensnared his best friend. Someone he thought of as an older sister despite being older than her.

"She has no idea what you are truly doing to her, you vile demon!"

Sebastian couldn't help the smirk that spread upon his face.

"Then why didn't you tell her? (He took great delight in seeing the generally stern William flinch in shock.) Or better yet, stop it when it first happened? (William glared darkly at the demon. Sebastian's lips turned into a suave grin.) Because you cannot interfere, am I wrong?"

William attacked the demon angrily. Sebastian avoided each attack with ease.

"I may not be able to kill her, but once I kill you, she will not become a vulgar, disgusting, vile demon!"

Frances' eyes snapped open as the feeling that Will was here filled her along with his irritation, disgust, protectiveness, and love as well as Sebastian's irritation, protectiveness, and love. She shot out of bed quickly. She rushed through putting on the first dress she could grab from her closet (Which was a dark green day dress.). She pulled black heels from her closet as well, slipping them on. She raced down the hall then down the stairs. She threw the front door open, quickly closing it behind her. She ran to her left. She could hear the Death Scythe as it was being swung around. Frances spotted Will attacking Sebastian.

"Will, stop!" She called, running forward.

Will pulled back his Scythe as he looked at her with a glare. She placed herself in front of Sebastian who moved beside her.

"Will, please, don't attack him. He's done nothing wrong. (Sebastian gently placed an arm around her waist.) He doesn't make your work harder. He doesn't eat any souls. He only cares to eat the one he is contracted to. He helped stop the angel with you and your other Grim Reapers. (Will flinched back in shock.) If he hadn't, you probably would have had more work. He respects me. He's waited over a year to make love to me. (Will gritted his teeth.) He didn't force me or use sweet words, we simply… fell in love by being ourselves. As I said before, I understand what he is, but (She looked at Sebastian, her own arm wrapping around his waist.) I love him. (Sebastian warbled in pleasure, pulling her closer. She looked back at Will, who was gazing at Sebastian with shock.) Please, Will. (Will looked at her.) You know me. Please, I-I don't want you to hate me…"

Will stared at her. She could see and sense his conflicting emotions— sadness, anger, pain, hurt, love, surprise, confusion, conflict that he clearly was trying to suppress. He disappeared in the next moment.

Frances sighed sadly. She hoped she would get through to him. Though, it was slightly strange. She could feel his emotions and the fact that he was suppressing them. She could tell from his expressions what his emotions, but she had never really sensed them before… Sebastian gently placed a kiss upon her forehead.

"I love you my precious Frances. (His nose skimmed the side of her neck. She tilted her head to give him more access, a moan escaped her lips as he began to teeth her flesh.) You are absolutely amazing, my sweet Frances. (He moved back. He tilted her chin up with his white gloved finger to look into his shimmering fuchsia eyes.) If he can't see your worth, that your acceptance is a gift, then he is a fool and unworthy of your friendship."

"Malphas… I—"

Malphas silenced her with a gloved finger on her lips.

"I know you desire to remain his friend, however, I do not believe that will be possible…"

She stared at him in silence for a moment. A sigh escaped her lips. She took his wrist and moved his hand from her lips.

"I know you don't believe that he'll come around, but… (She looked over to where she could still sense him.) I think he might come around. At least… I hope he will."

Malphas smirked as his eyes glimmered slightly to show his amusement, pride, and pleasure. He lifted the hand that held his wrist to his lips. She turned her gaze to him. He pressed a kiss to her knuckles. He lowered it slightly as he looked into her eyes.

"Your acceptance of us supernatural beings is commendable, Frances. Come. Let us return to bed."

She nodded. She looked back to where she could still sense Will.

"Good night, Will."

William watched from his spot in the trees as the demon led her into the mansion. He knew exactly what that demon was doing to her. To his… friend. However, he could never kill her. Not even for this. It wasn't her time to die. In fact, there was a question mark of the date she is to die. It had always been there since he first looked at her record. He let out a sigh. He turned from the manor hoping to turn his feelings aside yet… he knew that wouldn't be possible with her. He took off into the night.