A/N: Hello, all! Happy Cinco de Mayo! There is sexual content in this chapter! As usual, there is a line where it starts and where it ends! Have a fabulous day! Kisses!
Chapter Nineteen: Return to her Second Home
They pulled up in front of the manor. Their friends waited for them outside in a line. Once they stepped out, the four of them greeted them.
"Welcome back, Young Master! Mistress!"
"Ho, ho, ho!"
"Hello, everyone! Glad to see the manor's still standing." Frances said with a smile.
She turned to make her way to help Sebastian, however…
"Ah, Frances." Finny called her.
She turned to face Finny.
"Yes, Finny?"
"This arrived this morning for you." He said, stepping towards her and handing her an envelope.
She accepted it with a, "Thank you.". She looked at it and smiled. It was from Alois. Sebastian grumbled within her mind. She sent him calmness.
"I shall bring you both tea, momentarily." Sebastian said as he handed Finny the Young Master's trunk.
Ciel didn't say anything. He was tired from the travel. Frances was only a little tired which was slightly strange. She made to go to the back of the carriage when Sebastian looked at her.
"I'll bring your luggage up to your room, Mistress." He said, looking at her meaningfully.
She nodded.
"Very well."
She followed Ciel into the manor.
"It is good to be home." He sighed.
Frances nodded with a small, "Mm-hm.". They walked up the stairs. Once on the first landing, Frances turned to Ciel.
"I'll see you later, Ciel."
He waved at her, lazily.
"See you." He muttered.
They parted ways. Frances went to her room. She went to her dresser. She summoned paper, ink, and a pen to her hand. She wrote to her siblings that she was back home and that she had a fabulous time with them. She also wrote that Ciel also had a good time with them and what he told her that night after they left as well as what she felt from him during their time together. She sent it off with a, "Love you three always, Frances.". As she opened Alois' letter, she could feel their happiness and pridefulness. She smiled happily. She opened the letter and read it. It was asking if he could come over tomorrow to hang out with her and Ciel. She would have to ask Ciel since this was his home. She sent it on her dresser for the moment. Suddenly, she felt his presence at the door. He knocked politely.
"Come in." She called as he opened the door.
He entered with her luggage. He placed it on her dresser. She wrapped her arms around him, contently. He side-eyed her. She leaned up and kissed his neck. She lowered herself down as she looked up into his eyes.
"Thank you." She said.
He turned in her arms. His gloved hand reached up and gently caressed her cheek.
"You are welcome, my precious mate."
They leaned towards one another, their lips connecting in a passionate kiss. His hands lifted her up, her legs wrapped around his waist. He placed her on the dresser roughly, his hands slid down her hips. She whimpered into the kiss. One hand ran through his locks while the other went to his shoulder, digging her nails into it. He pulled away after a moment. A smirk spread across his lips at her gasp. He leaned his forehead against hers as she quickly got her breath under control. She slowly opened her eyes looking at the demon's lust filled eyes with lust of her own. She moved to pull his lips to hers once again, however, he didn't move. She tried pulling again. He still didn't move. Before she could whine, a gloved finger was placed against her lips. She looked into Malphas' amused eyes.
"Soon, my beautiful mate."
She smiled softly in understanding, though she was disappointed she had to wait. The demon smirked. He leaned towards her ear and licked along the curl of her ear. She shivered. Malphas disappeared from her sight. Frances opened her eyes to see that he had indeed left. She let out a sigh as her body trembled. She got off the dresser. She began to put the items in her luggage away, including the gifts she bought for her friends from the places they visited. She hummed hers and Sebastian's song as she put things away. Once she finished, a light yawn escaped her lips. She was slightly tired. She laid down, closing her eyes, still humming hers and Sebastian's song. Her smile widened when she felt him hovering over her. His voice joining hers. Their hands found one another and intertwined their fingers. Their song ended. She let out a contented sigh. She slowly opened her eyes, looking at the demon butler through her lashes. She reached up and cupped his cheeks, her right pointer finger moving his bang out of his face.
Frances: I love~~~~~ you, Malphas.
Malphas: I love~~~~~ you, Frances.
They smiled fondly at one another.
Suddenly, Malphas rolled her over causing her to gasp. He lifted her hips; a come-hither gasp escaped her lips. She shuddered at the desire she could feel emitting from him. He tore her clothing off, ripping the dress, corset, and undergarments all in one blow. She gasped as he slowly filled her. Her head leaned back, back dipping. Malphas watched her expression in the mirror headboard. Her eyes were closed and lips parted.
"M-Mal-ph-as." She sighed.
He leaned close to her ear.
"I need you, my beautiful mate."
"Nngh! I…" She shuddered.
"Talk to me, my Frances."
"I… need… you… Malphas… Please…"
He smirked. He nuzzled his nose against her neck. He bit her hard causing her to cry out as he continued pushing himself into her.
"Mmm, yes, my mate." He purred into her ear, licking her blood from his lips.
"Mal-ph-as." She sighed, again.
She pushed herself onto his remaining length as he thrusted himself into her. They both moaned. She slowly opened her eyes and straightened her head to meet his fuchsia eyes in the headboard mirror. His tendrils of darkness swirled around him.
"Malphas." She sighed.
A smirk spread upon his lips. His head tilted at an odd angle. He kissed her long and deep. She returned the kiss, her hand reached up, touching his luscious hair. He began to move in and out of her. She began to moan into his lips. Suddenly, he began to transform into his true form, his darkness surrounding the room. She released his lips with a loud gasp, her hand let go of his hair to put it back on the bed, however, due to the overwhelming feeling of his pleasure, the pleasure he gave her, the feeling of his darkness caressing her, his transformation, and the growth of his private anatomy, her hand slipped and bent to her elbow. Her head arched back as she felt him continue to grow inside her, a come-hither gasp escaped her lips.
"M-Mal—"
A scream poured out of her mouth as she went over the edge. The demon gave a sinful moan, relishing in her cries of ecstasy. His long demon tongue licked her neck as he continued moving in and out of her, prolonging her pleasure.
"Malphas!" She gasped.
He licked down her neck to her back.
"Yes, my mate. Sing for me!"
He pressed a kiss to one of her scars. Her head collapsed to the bed, her breaths coming fast as he continued to move in and out of her. His clawed hand rested on her hip, the other wrapped around her shoulder that was near the bed. Their song grew louder within their souls. Frances' lips trembled. Malphas' warble/purr grew louder. They sang their song, lifting their souls to impossible heights. They both fell over the edge with a loud roar, his wings flared out as Frances screamed. Malphas fell back into his body. His head gently laid against her back, he lightly nuzzled the skin there, giving a light lick. Frances gave quiet mewls as she attempted to regain her breath. He gently skimmed his nose up her back to her neck, warbling/purring in pleasure.
"My lover of darkness, accepting of my evil ways, my elegant songstress, I love you."
She closed her eyes as a purr emitted from her mouth.
"I love you, my Malphas." She breathed.
Her body collapsed as her world was consumed in the seductive and elegant embrace of darkness. Malphas' clawed hand that dug into her shoulder, released it and quickly caught her head, gently placing it down on the pillow. He slowly and carefully extracted himself from her, slowly lowering her hips to the bed. He gently rolled her over so she was on her back that way she would be more comfortable.
He gently ran a clawed hand down her cheek. She leaned into his touch, purring quietly. Her hand unconsciously grasped his own, pulling it towards her chest onto her heart, onto his mark. Her purring grew louder. A smirk spread upon his lips. He leaned close to her nose, his sharp nose nuzzled hers.
"Precious mate."
He sent her love and calmness. Her grip loosened just enough for him to gain his hand back, however, he left several black feathers upon her heart. He stood and went to her shredded dress and undergarments. He quickly fixed the articles of clothing. He placed the undergarments on her before heading to her closet. He grabbed a hanger. He closed the door to the closet. As he made his way to her dresser, he placed the dress on the hanger. Once at her dresser, he placed the dress on the hook. He moved to the dresser, pulled out a drawer and pulled out a purple nightgown. He returned to her side. He placed the nightgown on her. He tucked her in. He placed a gentle kiss upon her forehead.
"Sleep well, Frances." He murmured against her skin.
She sighed softly, leaning into his touch.
"Malphas." She sighed.
"My precious."
He nuzzled her forehead. He moved away from her. He slowly transformed back into his human form and pulled back his darkness. He made his way to the door to allow his mate to rest. Once at the door, he gave her one last look before closing it behind him.
Frances awoke an hour later, pleasantly sore in between her legs. She groaned happily as she stretched her body out. She relaxed against the bed. Her eyebrows furrowed when she felt something tickle her heart. She reached into her nightgown and pulled out six feathers. She shook her head as a smile graced her lips.
*That demon.*
She sat up, gently brushing her fingers against them. She hummed his song quietly. She leaned over to her nightstand drawer, pulled it open, and placed them with the several others she's collected over the years. She smiled at the fondly. Her smile widened as his warble/purr echoed through her. She closed the drawer. She carefully stood up and went to her hook where Malphas placed the dress she was wearing, all fixed. She took it off the hook and changed into it. After getting redressed and placing her nightgown back in the drawer of her dresser, she summoned the piano sheets Marcelo bought her for Christmas last year. She slipped into her heels and checked to make sure her hair was all right. It wasn't so she fixed it into a low ponytail. She gave a satisfied nod. She exited the room and made her way to her music room. She entered the room, closing the door behind her. She made her way over to the black piano. She set the music sheets onto the stand, flipped it to the third piece, and opened the fallboard revealing the beautiful black and white keys. She placed her hands on the appropriate keys and began to play and sing.
After a few hours of playing, she left the room after sending her music sheets to her safe place. She walked out of the room with a bounce in her step. She made her way to the kitchen to see Sebastian starting on dinner with Baldroy's help. Baldroy looked up when she opened the door. He smiled at her.
"Hey Frances. Need somethin'?"
"I was wondering if there was anything I could help you and Sebastian with?"
Sebastian side-eyed her with a small smirk.
"Sure. Why don't you…"
Sebastian cut him off.
"Can I have you peel the vegetables, please?"
Frances smiled sympathetically at Baldroy who glanced at the butler. Frances turned her gaze back to him with a genuine smile and a nod.
"Of course."
She went to the sink to wash her hands first. Baldroy clicked his tongue, though her and Sebastian could feel the amusement emitting from him. Frances moved over to Sebastian and began to peel the assortment of vegetables. Between the three of them, dinner was made about ten minutes ahead of schedule. Sebastian excused himself and Frances to retrieve the Young Master with strict orders for everything to be on low to Baldroy who accepted the order with a, "Yeah, yeah.".. Sebastian then led Frances out the door. Once out of Baldroy's sight, Sebastian offered his arm to her. She smiled prettily at him and accepted it, leaning her head against his shoulder. The demon warbled in pleasure within her mind. He led her to the Young Master's Office. He knocked on the door.
"Young Master."
"Come in." His voice called.
Sebastian entered with Frances. Ciel looked up from cleaning his gun.
"Dinner is served." Sebastian said, bowing slightly.
Ciel nodded his head.
"Very well."
He clicked the gun in place. He put his gun cleaning supplies away. He walked past them. Frances released Sebastian's arm so she could walk by Ciel and converse with him. Sebastian closed the door behind them, following them like the shadow he was. After a few steps filled with silence, Ciel asked,
"What does Alois want?"
"He wants to come here to spend time with you and me tomorrow." She said.
Ciel looked at her with a bored expression.
"May I invite him please, Ciel?" She asked.
He sighed.
"Very well."
She smiled.
"Thank you, Ciel. (She turned to Sebastian.) Will you please send a letter of acceptance to Alois after dinner?"
The demon butler smirked.
"Yes, my Lady." He said with a small bow.
"Thank you." She said, smiling at him.
She turned forward once again. They made their way to the dining room and ate dinner. After dinner, Ciel retreated to his Office yet again as Frances made her way to the library for some reading.
Half an hour later, she felt his presence behind her. She looked up at him once she finished the sentence she was reading. She smiled at him.
"Thank you." She said.
"You're welcome, my darling." He said.
He came around and joined her on the chaise. His arms wrapped around her waist as his head leaned against her shoulder. She began running her hand through his hair. He warbled quietly in pleasure. They stayed that way until it was time for bed. They were going to entertain a guest tomorrow after all.
The following morning, Frances awoke in Malphas' arms as usual. The two of them got dress, she had her morning tea before heading to the dining room. She and Ciel ate breakfast and that was when she could feel Alois was on his way here. She let Ciel know who grumbled in annoyance. Frances smiled.
Once breakfast was finished, Frances excused herself to go to the garden. She waved at Finny as he worked on wedding the garden with the diluted weed killer strapped to his back. She made her way through the roses humming, "I'll Pull a Bunch of Buds and Flowers". She sat on the fountain's edge about halfway through the song. She leaned back against her hands, her face lifted towards the sun's warmth. A sigh of content escaped her lips. She finished the song. She remained outside until around ten in the morning, she could feel Alois' excitement and knew he was just about to arrive. She stood and dusted her dress off. She began to make her way to the front entrance, the boy's song echoed in her mind. She smiled at Sebastian as he held the door open for her.
"Thank you."
He smirked at her.
"You're welcome, my darling."
She walked through the doorway. He closed it behind her. She could feel Claude's presence and Alois' impatient excitement. They approached the door. A knock sounded throughout the manor. Once they got to the door, Sebastian opened it. Claude and Alois stood on the porch. Claude was wearing his usual butler suit and Alois wore a white shirt with a green vest, a long black bow tied around his neck, black shorts, and brown boots. Sebastian bowed politely to the two.
"Welcome, Lord Trancy." He greeted.
Alois ignored him and ran straight into Frances' arms. She hugged him tightly. He buried his head into her bosom.
"I've missed you!" He exclaimed.
"I've missed you too, Alois."
They parted. He looked around.
"Where's Ciel?" He asked, looking up at her.
She was about to respond when said Earl spoke from the staircase.
"Right here, Alois."
They turned their attention to Ciel as he made his way down the stairs. Sebastian closed the door once Claude made his way through the doorway. Ciel made it to the bottom steps. Alois raced forward and smiled brightly at the boy.
"Hello, Ciel. It's good to see you!"
"Yes. It's good to see you as well, Alois."
Frances and Sebastian shared a glance, knowing the boy was lying.
"So Alois," Frances said, directing Alois' attention to her. Said boy turned to her, "what would you like to do today?"
He grinned widely and latched onto her arm. Sebastian growled mentally, glaring at Alois. Frances sent him calmness.
"Can we play pool?"
"As you wish, your Highness."
He smiled. Ciel turned and led the way, annoyance rolling off him. Sebastian escorted Claude to the servants' quarters. They entered the game room. They chose their cue sticks and began their game.
A short while later, it was Alois' turn.
"So, Frances, Ciel, how was your trip? See anything exciting?" Alois asked, lining up his cue stick with the red four ball.
"Boring. We merely wandered our factories." Ciel stated, monotonously.
Frances shook her head.
"It wasn't so bad. We did also visit several shops as well. Speaking of which, let me go get your present! Excuse me."
She placed her cue stick against the wall as Alois pocketed the red four ball. He smirked as he did so, moving around the table to line up the five ball. Frances left the room. She made her way to her room. She went to her closet, glanced carefully around to ensure Claude, nor his spiders, weren't around, and summoned her gift for Alois. She smiled at the purple wrapping paper with golden spiders on it, the brown box of custard on top. She exited her closet and her room and made her way back to the game room. When she entered, Ciel had just pocketed his ball.
"I've returned." She announced in a sing song voice.
Alois raced up to her.
"Did you see my shot?" He asked.
She giggled softly.
"Alois, I left after you pocketed the number four ball."
He pouted. Then stuck out his tongue. She gave a bright smile. She handed him the gifts. He accepted them with a smile of his own. He hugged her tightly.
"Thank you." He said, pulling away from her, "Mmm! Custard!"
He moved it under the present before ripping the wrapping paper and bow off. His eyes widened.
"Woah! How cool! (He flipped through the pages of the book. He stopped on a page. His eyes widened.) Is that a Spanish dance?!"
She smiled and nodded.
"It is indeed."
He laughed.
"This is so cool! Thank you, Frances!"
He hugged her again. She returned the hug. Over his head, she saw Ciel raise an eyebrow as well as feel his slight jealousy. Frances gave him a reassuring smile. They parted after a few seconds. He skipped over to Ciel.
"Look, Ciel! Frances bought me a custard and a book on dancing! Isn't that amazing?"
"Yes, amazing." Ciel said, slightly sarcastically, "Frances, it's your turn."
Frances shook her head at the slight jealous tone. She walked over to the wall and grabbed her cue stick. She took her turn and the game continued. Alois ate his custard and moaned at the taste.
After the pool game, they moved onto the game she got Ciel for Christmas: Hnefatafl. The two boys were very aggressive during that game. So much so that when Ciel won the first round, Alois demanded to play a second round. When Alois won the second round, Ciel demanded to play a third round. It was during that round that Sebastian and Claude knocked on the door.
"Pardon me, my lords, my Lady." Sebastian said, opening the door.
He and Claude walked into the room. Frances looked up from the game.
"Thank you, gentlemen. However, I believe you're going to have a hard time prying these two from their game."
Both demons smirked. The boys didn't even respond.
"For tea it is Earl Grey from Jackson." Sebastian said, pouring the beverage into beautiful blue and gold cups.
Claude cut into the chocolate looking cake.
"For dessert it is double chocolate with hazelnut crème."
Each demon butler served them their announced item.
"Thank you." Frances said, accepting them.
Both demons bowed and exited the room.
"Claude's cakes are disgustingly delicious. Why don't we take a break?" Alois asked Ciel as he moved his piece.
"Very well." Ciel agreed.
The three of them ate their dessert and drank their tea.
Alois finished his tea first. Frances felt mischievousness coming from him. She lowered her cup after taking a sip to see the boy finish moving a piece. Ciel saw it too. Frances could feel his anger.
"Hey! It's my turn!" Ciel shouted, incredulously.
"No, it wasn't. It's mine." Alois said, calmly, a smirk slowly spreading across his lips.
Ciel scowled. He moved two pieces to incorrect places.
"Hey!" Alois exclaimed, "You can't do that!"
"I can when you don't want to play the game correctly." Ciel smirked.
"All right, boys…" Frances started.
They ignored her.
"I was playing fair and square! It was my turn!"
"No, it wasn't!"
They both stood from their seats.
"That's enough!" Frances snapped also standing.
The both of them looked at her with surprise. She stared at them as a mother would with hands on her hips, eyebrows furrowed, and face twisted in anger. Both boys gulped. She turned her angry gaze to Alois.
"You cheated, Alois because you purposefully wanted to irritate Ciel. You think it's funny, but it's not. So, please knock it off."
Ciel gave a grunt of triumph. Frances rounded on him.
"Ciel, don't boast. (He pouted, slightly. She looked at both boys again.) I declare this game over. Let's play another game, where all three of us can play." She stated, sternly.
Alois sighed as he continued to pout. He crossed his arms as he looked away.
"I don't want to play games anymore."
Frances sighed.
"What would you like to do then, Alois?" She asked.
He turned his face to the right, looking thoughtful.
"Hmm." He hummed, thoughtfully. Suddenly, his face lit up and he looked at her, "Will you play us something on the piano, please?"
Frances smiled.
"Of course. Let's go to my music room."
The three of them moved to her music room. The chairs were scattered around the room. She made her way to the black piano. Ciel and Alois took seats at opposite ends of one another. Frances sat on the piano bench. She placed her hands on the keys. Debussy's 'Arabesque No. 1' filled the air. Frances' soul calmed as it always did. She could feel the others within the manor calm as well, including Claude. The music continued for an hour, her voice harmonized with the piano sometimes and she even played a few songs from the future. The pieces flowed together as if she was telling a story. The beginning light and airy then dark and twisted (She could feel Sebastian's pleasure at the dark songs.) then ended with a slight undertone of melancholy yet light and airy. Her fingers stilled. A contented sigh escaped her lips. Alois' clapping interrupted the silence. She felt his arms wrapped around her neck. She smiled as she turned her face towards him, a hand on his hand, patting it lightly.
"That was beautiful, Frances." He complimented.
"Thank you, Alois."
She turned from the piano, facing him fully. Alois released her.
"What shall we do next, your Highness?" She asked.
"Reading time!" He exclaimed.
She smiled, patting his head.
"Very well."
He smiled. The three of them exited out of the room. They began to walk down the hall. Ciel stopped in front of his Office door. The other two noticed and turned to him with inquiring looks.
"Ciel?" They both asked at the same time.
"I do not wish to be read to. I am not a child. I can read on my own."
Alois pouted.
"It isn't childish." He countered.
Ciel shrugged.
"To each their own opinion. I'll see you at dinner." Ciel said easily, walking into his Office before another word could be said.
Alois stepped forward.
"Alois." Frances said. He stopped. He turned to look at her inquiringly, "Leave him be."
He frowned. A second later, he nodded. They continued to the library.
"We all have our likes and dislikes." Frances said as they walked down the stairs to head to the library. Alois looked at her to see her smiling at him, "It makes us who we are, after all."
"Oh? And who am I?"
"A boy who wants love." She said, simply.
She placed a hand into her pocket and summoned a bluebell stem to her hand. She pulled it out and handed it to him. He gasped.
"Bluebells! (Tears filled his eyes as he accepted it. He looked at her.) Frances. How do you know me so well?"
She smiled. She wrapped an arm around his shoulders, kissing his head. She used her other hand to wipe the tears away.
"Because, I take the time to listen."
He smiled and snuggled into her warmth of love.
Once they reached the library, she released him.
"Go grab a book."
He nodded, enthusiastically. He turned and began looking through the shelves. Frances made her way to the light blue chaise by the window. Frances looked out at the summer sun. She smiled as she felt her siblings', friends', and lover's relaxed forms. She sat down, making herself comfortable. Alois approached her shortly after and handed her a book. She looked at the title. She nodded, smiling.
"Where did we leave off?" She asked opening "Grimm's Household Tales, with Author's Notes, 2 vols".
"I believe we ended with "The Pack of Ragamuffins"."
Frances nodded. Alois snuggled into her side. She turned the pages to the next story which was "Little Brother and Little Sister" and began to read. The hours passed by in the world of fairy tales. It was at the end of Cinderella that Frances felt Claude's presence.
"And they returned, the elder was on the left side and the younger on the right…"
He knocked on the door.
"Pardon me."
He opened the door. Frances and Alois looked up at him. Alois with a scowl. Frances with a finger up.
"One moment, please Claude. (She and Alois looked back at the book. She resumed reading it.) …and the pigeons picked out the other eye of each of them. And so they were condemned to go blind for the rest of their days because of their wickedness and falsehood. The end."
Frances closed the book. She was surprised she was only a bit thirsty. Alois stood up stretching. Frances stood.
"I take it dinner is ready." Frances stated as she went to put the book back.
"Correct, my Lady." Claude stated, emotionlessly.
Frances nodded. She made her way to the door behind Alois. Claude closed the door behind them. She turned her head back with a small smile.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome, my Lady."
Alois and Frances made their way down the stairs.
"Ciel!" Alois exclaimed, excitedly when he saw Ciel and Sebastian making their way from the other stairway.
"Evening." Ciel greeted, moodily.
Alois giggled. They met up on the first landing. Alois placed his hands behind his back as he leaned towards Ciel's face.
"You missed a good time. Frances does the voices perfectly."
"I see."
Frances and Sebastian shared a quick glance. They could tell the boy was getting annoyed. They looked away. Once they made their way to the dining room, Sebastian and Claude stepped forward opening the doors for them. The room was once again glittering like it always was. Red and white roses as well as bluebells accompanied the table. The dishes even matched the color scheme of the flowers perfectly.
"Dinner tonight is fillet fish with a creamy seasoned sauce with roasted vegetables and fried rice." Sebastian announced.
"To accompany, we have Ceylon tea from Justin and Brooke's." Claude announced.
Ciel sat at the head of the table while Frances sat on his right with Alois on his left. Alois excitedly talked about how grateful he was that Ciel had allowed him to come over and hang out with them, Ciel merely mumbled around a piece of fish. Alois sighed, dramatically flopping over the arm of the chair.
"How do you put up with this, Frances?" Alois asked, twirling the bit of fish that was on his fork.
Frances smiled.
"Some people like the silence, others don't. (She shrugged.) It's each person's preference."
Alois sat back up. He looked at her.
"Which do you like?" He asked.
"I'm fine with both."
He rolled his eyes, though a smile appeared upon his lips.
"You're so accommodating."
She smiled brightly.
"If one cannot adapt to everything, then we cannot grow."
The four beings stared at her with awe, Sebastian's look quickly morphed into one of pride. She heard him warble/purr in pleasure within her mind. She glanced at him to see his prideful smirk. Claude glanced at her then at him. This… human was more interesting than he thought… Perhaps she would accept the change which was almost complete. Sebastian glanced at him with the smug smirk still upon his lips.
*My precious mate.*
They resumed eating.
Once dinner was finished, Claude stepped forward.
"Your Highness."
Alois sighed.
"Yeah, yeah. I know."
Frances smiled gently.
"Time to go?" She asked.
"I don't want to leave." Alois pouted.
Frances stood and moved around the table towards him. She embraced him in a hug. He hugged her back.
"We'll see each other again soon. Keep up with the dancing and keep the boring away any way you can."
"Hm. Okay. Try not to let Ciel's sour mood affect you." Alois said, leaning out of the embrace slightly to look into her eyes.
Ciel spluttered. Frances and Alois shared a smirk and a small giggle. She ran her hand through his hair.
"He's not so sour." Frances smiled.
Alois chuckled again.
"Come on. I'll walk you to the door."
He nodded. He walked beside her, allowing her to guide him by the small of his back. Ciel exited the dining room with them as well, followed by the two demon butlers. They had made it halfway to the front entrance when Ciel spoke,
"I had a good time with you. (The two of them turned around to face him.) Have a safe journey home."
Alois smiled, brightly. He hugged Ciel tightly. Ciel gasped in surprise. Before Ciel could flail around, Alois released him.
"Thank you, Ciel." He said, cheerfully.
Ciel nodded. He turned and began making his way up the stairs. Frances, Alois, and the two butlers made their way to the front door. Sebastian stepped forward and opened it for them. Frances thanked him as usual. He gave her a smile. Sebastian remained on the steps as she, Alois, and Claude walked down the steps. Claude continued to the carriage. Alois and Frances stopped on the ground just off the last step. Frances turned to Alois and hugged him to her. He wrapped his arms around her. She kissed his forehead. He looked up at her.
"Be a good boy, Alois. Be safe. I had a fun day with you."
He smiled.
"Me too, Mother! I can't wait until next time! (They hugged each other one more time. He released her and made his way to the opened door of the carriage. He waved goodbye.) Byeee!"
Frances waved back.
"Goodbye, Alois!"
He got into the carriage with Claude's help. Claude closed the door. He moved to the driver's seat. He turned to her and nodded. She smiled back. She turned her gaze back to Alois who was waving wildly as they took off. She returned the wave. Once they were out of sight, she turned to head back into the manor. Sebastian followed after her. The door clicked shut. His hands wrapped around her waist, his head leaned against her shoulder.
"Precious mate."
She smiled widely. She turned her head and leaned up towards him. He smirked. He leaned down. Their lips met in a loving kiss.
The days following Alois' visit were spent with the usual paperwork, oils and potions making, spending time with her friends and lover. Today was no exception, being that it was teatime with Grell. She missed him terribly. She missed Will as well, but she knew he needed time to accept the fact that she was marked by a demon. She still hoped he would come talk to her like he used to or at least talk to her without insulting her. She shook her head as she made her way with a tray of lemon tea in pretty red cups and lemon bars with powder sugar that she made on a similar plate. She placed the tray onto the white circular table. A smirk spread upon her face as Grell landed beside her.
"Hello, darling!" Grell exclaimed, hugging her.
"Hello, beautiful!" Frances returned the hug.
They parted. Grell threw his Scythe into the ground beside his chair. He took a seat. She sat after he did. He added a few pieces of sugar cubes to his lemon tea, lifting it and stirring it daintily. Frances served herself two lemon bars. She took a bite out of one. Once she swallowed, she turned to him.
"How have you been, Grell?" She asked.
"Ugh! It's been slow lately. Not too many people dying, but you know it's typical." He said, waving his hand around.
Frances nodded.
"How about you? Been busy with your man, I can see!" He said, his eyes glancing down at her lower regions then back into her eyes, his eyebrows wiggling.
Frances blushed.
"I'm not sharing that with you. Nor (She spoke over him as he opened his mouth.), am I sharing him with you."
Grell pouted.
"Phew! You're no fun!"
"You need to find yourself a man so you can leave mine alone."
He sighed, placing a hand on his chin as he leaned his elbow against the table.
"But, your man is so handsome. Will is too, but I don't love him in that way and all those other Reapers are just too weak to be my love. I am so jealous that you have found the one you are meant to be with."
Frances took his hand that rested against the table. He looked at her.
"You'll find the one you are meant to be with Grell. Just be patient. Trust me. I had no idea that he was my one. I wasn't even looking to be honest. Though, love is different for everyone. Sometimes it finds you, sometimes you have to look for it."
He smiled at her and wrapped her in a hug.
"I love you, sweet Frances."
She smiled.
"I love you, crazy Grell."
They shared a smile as they parted. They enjoyed the silence for a few minutes, drinking tea and eating the lemon bars. Frances looked up at Grell who was still enjoying his tea.
"How's Will doing?" She asked.
Grell nearly spewed out his tea. He coughed to clear his throat.
"That good, huh?" She asked, lowering her eyes for a moment before looking back up at him.
Grell finished clearing his throat. He looked at her with a thoughtful expression.
"He's been stricter than ever." He said, tapping his cheek.
She sighed.
"I figured he would be."
Grell took her hand.
"Don't worry too much about him, hon."
"I know. I'm not, but I just didn't want to cause him any pain."
"You are too sweet! (Grell hugged her again.) Your care about everyone is beautiful. (She smiled as she returned the hug. They pulled away after a second.) You even accept me for me when I flirt with your mate. He will be mine one day."
Grell leaned close to her face, wiggling his eyebrows again. Frances laughed. She shoved his shoulder, pushing him back.
"Never. Not even in your dreams. He is mine."
Grell stuck his tongue out at her.
"Where is my Bassy, anyway?"
"My Sebastian and Ciel went to London to look at the Phantomhive lands."
"Ah, I see." He said, pouting slightly.
They continued to make conversation as they ate and drank, enjoying each other's company as they talked about anything and everything. Time passed by quickly and all too soon, it was time for Grell to leave. She hugged him farewell and told him not to get into trouble. He laughed.
"Darling, I live for trouble! It's what makes life interesting after all!"
She laughed and shook her head.
"Goodbye, Grell."
"Ta-ta, darling!"
She watched him take off at a fast rate of speed. She smiled, amused. She gathered the dishes and took them inside to clean. As she washed the dishes, Sebastian told her they were returning now. She was about to send him *All right.* when she felt that someone was coming to the manor and they were quite excited. Sebastian nodded mentally.
*Thank you, my mate. I shall inform the Young Master.*
She nodded mentally.
*You're welcome.*
They knew they were coming as Prince Soma called yesterday asking if he could come over. The Young Master had reluctantly agreed.
As Frances finished washing the dishes, she hummed Prince Soma and Agni's song. Once she was done, she made her way to the front entrance. She smiled as she felt Sebastian's amusement, Ciel's slight annoyance, Agni's calmness, and Prince Soma's excitement. She opened the door to reveal Sebastian opening the front door as usual followed by Prince Soma who had his arm around Ciel's shoulders talking extremely jubilantly.
"Have you missed me, Ciel? I missed you! Can we play chess today?"
Frances smiled widely as she held back her laughter.
"Hello, Prince Soma, Agni."
Prince Soma looked up at her. Agni bowed to her with a smile.
"Frances!" Prince Soma exclaimed, running to her and embracing her in a hug.
"Namaste ji." Agni greeted.
He straightened. Sebastian closed the door.
"How are you, Prince Soma?" Frances asked as they parted.
Though his arm remained wrapped around her shoulders.
"Better now that I'm about to play chess with little Ciel!" He exclaimed, excitedly.
Ciel walked past them.
"I agreed to no such thing." He stated.
Prince Soma released her and turned to him with an incredulous expression.
"Eh? But, I came over to hang out with you and Frances."
Ciel let out a sigh.
"Sebastian, bring tea to the game room." He ordered.
Sebastian bowed.
"Yes, my lord."
"May I be of assistance, Sebastian?" Agni asked.
"I would not mind. Thank you." Sebastian said, politely.
The two butlers made their way to the kitchen. Prince Soma and Frances followed Ciel up the stairs. Prince Soma had an excited smile upon his face, happy that his friend agreed to play.
The day continued as the two of them played chess with Prince Soma. Frances and Ciel won all the rounds against the Prince causing him to pout and cry at the many losses.
"You need to be more dominant in your moves, Prince Soma." Frances explained.
He looked at her with his head tilted to the side.
"Try to think three moves ahead instead of one move at a time. Your goal is to capture the King after all."
He nodded. He looked at the board with determination. He was playing against Ciel once again. As the game went on, he did start to get a little better and while he did not win, he did do better than before.
"Now you are using your head." Ciel commented with a smirk, "However, you will never win against me."
Frances shook her head.
*You have to provoke him.* She thought sarcastically.
Sebastian chuckled in her mind.
"I'll win, you'll see!" Prince Soma exclaimed with a clenched fist. He looked sideways, "One day." He muttered.
Ciel's smirk widened. Frances let out a small giggle.
"Why don't we stop here for now." Ciel suggested.
Prince Soma nodded.
"All right." He said, stretching his arms above his head, "Let's go to the garden!" Soma exclaimed, grabbing onto Ciel and Frances' arms, dragging them out of the room.
Ciel gasped.
"I can walk on my own perfectly well!" He snapped as the teenager continued to drag them out the room.
Prince Soma laughed. He continued to drag them down the hallway, ignoring Ciel's protests.
"Prince Soma," Frances called gently, feeling Ciel's irritation just about to snap. Prince Soma stopped and looked at her, "Please let us go so we can walk unhindered. You wouldn't want us to be hurt if you tug us too hard, right?"
Prince Soma gasped. He immediately released them.
"Sorry! Sorry!" He shouted.
"It's all right." She smiled.
Ciel took heaving breaths. After a second, they continued walking. Ciel looked over at Frances with a small nod of thanks. She gave a smile and nodded back. They made it to the gardens. As they walked, Prince Soma lamented them with tales of the gardens in Bengal.
They spent the rest of the afternoon in the gardens until dinner was called. After dinner was when Prince Soma had reluctantly left, but after Frances talked with him did he leave in a slightly happier mood.