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Mistress of the House by A young writer

Anime » Kuroshitsuji Rated: T, French, Romance & Drama, Ciel P., Elizabeth M., Words: 61k+, Favs: 6, Follows: 5, Published: Apr 11, 2019 Updated: Oct 9

11Chapter 17

Hello Hello.

I had told someone that I would let you know when things were a little ole ole. So this is it. There isn't really a sex scene to speak of. But there is a strong notion of. As well as a slight reaction description and some crude language.

So there you go, there you go.

-x-

In a bedroom with walls lined with bas-relief carvings, James Connor lay lasciviously on the large bed in the center of the room. He was covered up to his waist with blankets of self and velvet where just a few hours ago the male had delivered himself to a night of passion with the owner of the place.

The woman in question, seated at his side, had started to smoke a cigar. The smell seeped into the man's nose, burning his sinuses unpleasantly. The archaeologist got up slightly, tilting most of his weight on his elbows for support. With his eyelids still somewhat heavy with sleep, in a gravelly tone he expressed his unease, "Turn off your drugs. It stinks."

Madame Venrino's pupils shifted languidly towards the person speaking to her. She looked him straight in the eye, put the cigar to her lips, inhaled the tobacco, then leaned closer to her guest to finally spit the smoke right in his face. "You will learn my boy, that I am not commanded."

James waved his hand lazily in the cloud of ash. His nose and mouth twisting into a grimace. "I've already agreed to many of your outlandish requests." His gaze drifted to the old man sleeping in a wheelchair at the end of the bed. Then his attention turned to the buxom woman in front of him. "Couldn't you give me this present?"

"My poor friend..." she inhaled again from her cigar, "Unfortunately your gift was to have me for one night." and exhaled the smoke. The waste she produced with her mouth, forced her companion to narrow his eyes.

The latter, whose heart was tired of being bullied by all the people he met. This heart, unsupported by yet another who dared to take it high, at the edge of a physical response hung dangerously. But this recalling that his only support and friend is only a small Baron without great personal fortune; he would never get out of misery if he raised his hand on a so-called fortune from England. He should then, with a smirk, trust his word against hers. "So you disdain nobles but act like them. Real newcomer demeanor. How charming. Haughty, hypocritical and decadent. It suits you perfectly my dear."

"Oh, let's see... Don't co-found me with a mirror. I never hated nobles." again Madame Venrino blew the smoke she had swallowed earlier into James's face. "And I had understood that you had more of a penchant for the nobility, given your association. Especially one of them." The lady paused to give him time to understand his insinuation, but also to add a touch of drama. Then with an exaggerated sigh she theatrically turned her head away then continued "But it seemed I was wrong."

Mr. Connor, had easily understood what she had wanted to imply. This made him laugh.

Everyone seemed to believe he had a special attachment to Countess Phantomhive.

"In effect." The archaeologist grabbed his companion's cigar with his fingertips, and without a second thought crushed it on the pure white bedside table beside her. "You couldn't be more wrong."

Not holding a grudge against him for his inappropriate gesture; the still smiling lady moved closer until their bare shoulders were in contact. "Really... And would you be so kind as to enlighten me. I hate being told I'm wrong without explaining why afterwards."

"And why should I? Your gift was my body for one night in front of your dying husband."

At his remark the hostess had the sudden urge to wrap his hands around his neck. However, the man undoubtedly had more strength than she would ever have.

James saw the dismay in her eyes and amused himself without restraint. "Ah, my poor...friend...Don't worry. I'll tell you everything, because I know it won't harm me."

The American sat in a position where it would be easier for him to speak and the woman beside him followed his example.

"You see Madam, let me first enlighten you on a subject where all of England seems to be wrong. No, I never had the slightest carnal or even sentimental desire for the Countess Phantomhive. "

In a mocking tone, the lady asked "Really? No desire?"

"Well, not without any intention. You're right, I did have a desire for her. The desire to get closer to the Countess and then be accepted by the Count."

Madame Venrino's eyes widened. "Why go to her rather than go to him directly?"

"Leon's advice."

"Oh...Rosemary...It's true that he first knew Elizabeth and then through her the Count."

"Only I'm not him! And so here we are..."

"Well unlike you Leon knows his place."

"I know mine all too well. I just don't like it."

"Why still be friends with him then?"

"He's a faithful, curious person with a big heart. As proof, he always takes care of his sisters despite they are old enough to get married."

"You're not wrong I guess... Another question?"

"You're welcome."

"Why would you want to be friends with the Phantomhive family?"

James didn't answer right away. He inhaled, then with a glint of fatigue in his eyes exhaled "I'm nothing. An American immigrant to England. Of course I would have been on the radar of nobility and law at some point. fire to fight fire. So I needed someone who was close to law and nobility."

Madame Venrino burst out laughing. The archaeologist looked at her with an insulted air. He counted on waiting for his laughter to die out to speak, only she forestalled him "We'll talk about your ability to play the victim later. First of all, I'd like to know; now that your little plan hasn't worked, Why do you keep hanging out with Lizzy? Especially since Count Phantomhive really doesn't seem to like you. And having her as an enemy isn't something we recommend."

Always with a scowl, and certainly not forgetting the first sentence addressed before his umpteenth question against him; Mister Connor replied "He's a nice person to be around." eclipsing the frown on his face, a smirk settled in. "Then maybe, precisely, because I like to see such a high Count in agony."

"But so far he's only won against you."

The man's eyes turned quickly and angrily to the hostess. "Raised for a long time. When his wife falls into my arms and I cuckold her, he won't have the audacity to even come out of his mansion."

The lady who accompanied him said nothing. Not because she couldn't or had nothing to say, but because she chose to be silent.

If she had to be honest. Madame Venrino thought that was one of the dumbest ideas she had heard. The only thing James would gain by doing this is a headshot at best.

But, she has always had a penchant for the dramatic. Stopping him will spoil his own fun. So with a candid smile, she put her hand on her mate's bare chest and leaned closer "How bad you are. But I must say I quite like it. Call me when Lizzy is in your bed. I would love to join you both."

The face borrowed from disgust, it was the turn of the American to ask a question "Do you therefore also go towards women?"

"Yes and no. My dear husband loves to see me with her. But personally I'm not a fan. Nevertheless for him I would do anything." She smiled and paused, shifting her eyes to her husband, then quite naturally continued "However, I love seeing them stuffed. Their cheeks turning red, their mouths wide open; but so drowned in pleasure that no sound manage to come out; until the orgasm finally comes. Their pelvises spasm, then they release a long moan provided by the ecstasy finally obtained... Elizabeth who always looks so pious and innocent... I bet the Earl barely touches her. Then we could see her discovering the thing. That would be so cute."

"I would have skipped the description, you are kind."

Madame Venrino didn't even bother to make him think she was paying attention to his sarcasm. "That being said, would I also love to see the Earl watch her get rolled up?"

"You are crazy." James stated lividly.

Once again she ignored him, "You see, I've always fantasized about getting caught by another man while the Count looks at us with disgust and a glint of superiority in his eye. But do you think that would he have the same reaction if it were his wife? Or would he discover a pleasure and start to touch her to the rhythm of her moans?... Or that he would start sobbing like a little child and try to take it away from us?" the woman finally turned her attention to the man beside her "What do you think?"

Mr. Connor blinked once, sighed, and finally replied, "I think you'd get on well with Freud."

"Oh thank you very much."

"Believe me, that wasn't a compliment."

"But any insult from you becomes a compliment to me Sir.

-x-

That will be all for this chapter. It's much shorter than the others but I think the next one will be out soon.

Thanks for following my story. I always love your comments, although often I don't know how to respond to them. But they are no less popular. I'm just socially slightly wonky.

-x-

The gray light of early morning streamed through the window of the bedroom where the Phantomhive couple lay. In this same room, Astre was finishing getting dressed, while Elizabeth was sinking deeper and deeper into the covers.

The Count looked at himself in a small mirror that rested on the fireplace, trying to adjust his hairstyle as best he could. Seeing that there was not much that could be improved without the necessary utensils, he gave up quickly and decided instead to go and try to lift his companion.

He delicately put his right hand on the mattress and used it as a support to lean gently towards his wife. "Elizabeth, wake up." he murmured so as not to rush her.

Without opening her eyes, the above-named replied with a small moan to let him know that she had heard her. But nothing more happened.

The young man sighed. "Lizzy, I know it's hard. But you'll feel a lot better once we get home." He hadn't had much hope for that first sentence, and was prepared to go on a 30 minute rant about why she should be up now. However, to his surprise; the Countess gathered the blanket around her then began to roll out of bed. She didn't bump into her husband in the process, but it did so at the expense of a successful landing.

After falling and scratching her forehead on the damaged floor. Elizabeth got up slowly before shuffling over to the chair where her clothes were resting. She sits down heavily on the floor, then with the blanket still wrapped around her shoulders, begins to put on her stockings.

Watching everything unfold from afar, Astre still prevented herself from laughing at the fall of his wife. Only he no longer needed to restrain himself; his smile quickly melted away.

The Countess was standing. The movement caused the sheet to fall in a heap around her ankles. Thus the young man was able to admire the gap of white flesh that his wife's shirt and his socks let him see. Half of his partner's bare thighs were offered to his eye. Flawless skin; a light mole barely hidden by her cotton top; a tender party that has never seen the sun and muscular enough to twist the necks of its enemies.

Noticing where his thoughts were heading his cheeks began to burn; and he hastily averted his gaze.

With the muse of his desires out of sight, it was easier to breathe. Nevertheless, his conscience seemed to want to remain dawdling in the theme of lust. Which brought him back to the memory of yesterday. Elizabeth stuttering to evoke an act as simple and human as sex. But above all, the memory of her thinking that he would find her repugnant if he knew that her body was crying out for physical satisfaction.

As he had told her, he was not disgusted to learn it. In the first place it was not as if he did not suspect it. It's more that he hadn't paid attention to it. But now that the terms were out, it worried him a bit more.

The count was always thinking about his desires and the complexity of being able to achieve them. The terror that the love of the night looks too much like the nightmare that still haunts him. That in the end, he will start to hate Elizabeth by associating her with the horror of his past. But also the fear that one day, in the light of his emerald eyes, he will see the reflection of a man who has become a torturer.

The first of his stated fears may well be the most important, but the others do not fade away. When one calms down the other reappears. And even if Astre repeats to herself that none of this will happen, and knows that torture is in no way comparable to a married couple allowing themselves to finally be able to love each other; the vile thread of his childhood memories always comes back.

What brought him back to the present were his wife's complaints. The count redirected his gaze to his companion; he then saw her sitting on the chair where her clothes had rested, in her evening dress from yesterday, and with her right hand stuck in her hair matted from her sleep.

Without hiding the smile of his amusement, he approached her. "Wait, I'll help you." the young man stood behind Elizabeth, and carefully removed his hand from her curls; then he took the time to gently separate each of his golden locks from each other.

He was so focused that he didn't notice that his action had succeeded in completely waking up and cheering up his wife. Ecstatic from the tenderness of her movement

It wasn't perfect, but it was already better. Finally he started braiding them and then tied them with one of the ribbons that had decorated his same strands the night before.

Star stepped back to contemplate his work. And after careful consideration, he was frankly ashamed of himself; until he blushes slightly.

"Are you finished? Can I watch?" if she could, the Countess would have started running; unfortunately the misadventures of the previous evening still weighed on his body. Nevertheless, that didn't stop him from going to get, with a tiny bounce in his step, the mirror that was resting on the fireplace.

While she was observing her hairstyle, her husband had decided to make himself small. He knew that if he had tried to keep her from seeing himself, she might as well have seen how badly he'd put her hair. So now he was just waiting for her reaction.

In the reflection offered to her by the mirror, the young woman saw her curls twisted in a mediocre way and a ribbon on the verge of untying. Anyone would laugh at her or whoever did her hair. So that's what she did.

At the sound of her laugh Astre tucked her head into her shoulders and her blood boiled in her cheekbones. "I'll call Sebastian." He started to rush towards the door.

"Nope!" she caught him by the wrist.

Without turning to her, he continued to speak "Come on, we can't let you go out like that..."

Not letting go, she stood in front of him. "Me, I think it's perfect like this!" a sincere smile showing her teeth, and not seeming to want to leave him, she told him without hesitation. So with a sigh and a roll of her eye, Astre bent and timidly lifted the corner of her lips for her.

The couple stood there, looking at each other. Elizabeth slipped her grip from her wrist to replace it with her hand and did the same with her other.

Les première seconde Astre trouva cela plutôt confortable. Seulement, ses yeux brillais avec tant d'amour pour lui que cela en devient écrasant. Après presque deux minutes il pensait qu'elle allait le lâcher. Mais elle paraissait visiblement décidée à en profiter autant qu'il le lui permettrait.

Alors le jeune homme se racla la gorge et pointa leurs mains liées avec son oeil.

"Tu en as assez?" en plissant des yeux et avec un sourire gênée elle lui demanda. Connaissant déjà sa réponse, elle le lâcha avant même qu'il puisse en formuler une.

"Merci..." il dit dans un souffle bas, encore un peu embarrassée.

Maintenant un silence inconfortable remplissait la pièce. Et les deux jeunes gens continuaient d'éviter le regard de l'autre en faisant semblant de redresser leurs tenues.

Then breaking the atmosphere, the Phantomhive butler knocked on the door.

"Yes!" the couple declared in unison but on different timbres.

"Breakfast will be served to you downstairs when you order it, my lord." inquired Sebastian.

The two nobles nodded, and Star spoke to get, "Fine...we're going right now."

While Elizabeth was putting on her heavy cape, the tall man dressed all in black, couldn't help noticing his mistress' unkempt headdress. He approached her "Allow me to fix your hairstyle before you go to lunch, my lady."

But before he could reach the end of his golden strands, the countess slapped his hand.

Holding his offending member and with a slightly offended look, the butler looked at his mistress.

And she, her eyes wide open to make sure her orders were obeyed, said in her flattest tone, "No." then proceeded to walk through the door, the sound of his heels against the old wooden floor being able to be heard by the two men still in the room.

The Count sighed, turned to pick up his fur coat. But instead of his belongings, he found himself face to face with the demon.

Somewhat surprised he jumped and let out a little cry. Then seeing who it was he rolled his eyes "Sebastian... what is it?"

The butler didn't answer immediately, and only stared at his master. "What did you do this time?..."

Star sighed. "Nothing. Let's go.".

The Count and Countess ate, and once their meal was over, they set off immediately for the manor.

The trip was shorter than last night. The snow had not melted nor the frost. But the better lighting helped a little.

An hour later they were back. The butler opened the doors for his masters and they were immediately greeted by the rest of the house servants.

The couple talked a little together until their room. Then everyone made a brief toilet before going about their business.

Astre had put on a brown daytime suit with a striped jacket. He then headed to his office. Counting to stay locked up there until the bells announcing noon start ringing.

For her part, Elizabeth donned a daygown but complemented it with one of her corduroy dressing gowns with a gold cord to tie it up. Mey-rin was about to do her lady's hair, only the young woman dodged her maid, then ordered that no one even think of touching her hair.

Still too tired from yesterday's events, she went to the library to reread one of her favorite novels, saying that she would devote herself to her work later.

Two hours passed quickly and dinner was ready. The masters of the manor met in the dining room, then while feeding each other started a conversation from time to time. When they were finished, everyone returned to where they were later. Everything was going well. Only, coming to break the calm of the house a few minutes after the clocks announced 2 p.m., a person comes to knock on the door of the Phantomhive mansion.

Without making her wait Sebastian went to open the door. He was not surprised to see Mr. James Connor at the door. He had felt it coming for a while now. So with a phrase and a smile the butler had practiced since his contract, he asked, "Hello, Mr. Connor. What's the reason for your visit?"

The man in question lowered his hat slightly in greeting "Good morning. I come to visit your mistress, my friend, the Countess Phantomhive. Her sudden disappearance at the Venrino party has worried many of her friends, including the whole house Rosemary. I thus also vouch for their expression of concern for the Countess."

The demon shifted slightly and invited the American to enter. "Wait in the hall please. I'll let Madame know and see if she agrees to see you."

"Well, I'll wait." James responded by removing his top hat.

As he said, Sebastian went to the library to find the lady there. He knocked on the door. But he heard nothing. He knocked a second time louder, and this time he got an answer "Yes, come in!".

Elizabeth glanced at the servant before returning to her reading. "What is happening?"

"Mr. Connor is in the lobby ma'am. He-"

"Oh why?!" she cut it off and stopped reading.

Accustomed to his behavior he continued "He and the Rosemarys were worried about your health after the incident last night. Mr. Connor then made sure he came to personally inquire about your condition."

"How kind." the countess smiles. "But I don't really want to have company now..." she looked at her outfit "Then I would have to change..." she sighed, and began to think while tapping her nails on the cover of the novel now closed.

The butler didn't move an eyelid, waiting for his mistress's decision.

Finally, taking a deep breath and letting out a long breath, she stood up and left her work on the chaise, then turned to Sebastian "Good! He made the trip...Mom wouldn't be proud if I sent him away without even a Cup of tea."

Elizabeth walked out of the library. "Call Mey-rin in my room. And make Mr. Connor wait in the main living room with some tea."

"Right away, ma'am."

-x-

That's all for today!

You saw! Almost only two months before a new publication. Aren't you spoiled! Not much is happening but I'm still afraid of my narrative rhythm. It will be a bit more eventful in the next chapter *evil laugh*.

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-x-

With the help of her maid, the Countess had put on a proper afternoon dress for entertaining. But again, she was forced to clarify that we are not touching her hairstyle.

She walked to the living room where the American was waiting. Snake opened the double doors for her, and she greeted her friend happily. "Connor! Nice to see you."

The above-named was up when the mistress of the place arrived. Taking into account the appearance of his host, his eyes rested a few seconds too long on the particular outfit of his hair. But not wanting to seem rude James pretended not to notice and went to give him a hand kiss. "The pleasure is mine, Madame la Comtesse."

Elizabeth smiled back and then went to sit on a couch; following his gesture, the archaeologist settled into an adjacent armchair.

The hostess started the conversation, "My butler reported to me that you came to inquire about my condition? That's kind of you."

"Indeed, ma'am. After the sudden departure of you and your husband, we were all worried. Especially since the earl seemed very angry..." Connor's pupils wandered from left to right checking that they weren't watched.

The Countess saw his suspicion, and looked around the room. "Something bothering you?"

The man beside her cleared his throat. And resumed "No, absolutely not... Only, my next question, if you allow me to ask it, might seem out of place to you."

Her face showed a slight concern, "Well...I'll take it from you. I wouldn't mind until after I heard her."

James moved closer to the edge of his seat, leaning forward towards the young woman. The latter copied her act, straining her ear closer to her friend's lips.

So, in a whisper he asked "Monsieur le comte, is your husband violent to you?"

Elizabeth jerked back and her eyes wide open, she said out loud, "Excuse me?!"

Connor rushed to continue "Know, Madam, that I agree that I have exceeded a limit. And, that it is otherwise quite normal for a husband to put his partner back on the right track if she deviates from it. Only , out of respect for you Elizabeth, I can't imagine you straying from a respectable path. Not to mention that the line between correction and tyranny is far wider than some realize." he took the hands of the countess in his "I do not seek to belittle your person or that of your mary. But understand that as a friend, I worry to see you with someone who does not know how to control his emotions."

The young woman took a deep breath, trying to cool her face, the blood of which had rushed to her cheeks in anger. Then after a moment of silence, in a calm voice she spoke "Please step back, Mr. Connor."

The above-named did as ordered and undid his hands from those of his host. He looked slightly pained, but nothing more. As if somehow he knew exactly what he was doing.

"I assure you, sir, that my husband does not mistreat me in any way and would never even think of it." the stern expression the Countess had been trying to maintain softened a little. "He never stops trying to please me." she pulled her braid forward from her right shoulder. "Look, he even did my hair today." remembering her morning her cheeks dusted with pink.

With an unimpressed, even condescending look, the man keeping him company studied the twisted gold curls clumsily. He didn't understand why she seemed to show him like it was a diamond river.

Elizabeth saw his gaze. Still upset that someone had insulted the one she loved, the hostess retorted with a little venom in her voice. "If you're not able to understand my husband's tender subtleties, don't be overwhelmed. It's not about you anyway."

The archaeologist gave her a smile, "You're right, Countess. Please forgive me. It's just... Since one of my one-on-one meetings with the Count, some of his words have stuck etched in my mind."

"If it's because of another one of his sarcasms, I assure you that for the sake of your sanity, you should stop taking them seriously.

He let out a light laugh under his breath. "Yes, I know, Countess. He doesn't necessarily think so. But-" Only Elizabeth cut him off.

"No that's not it."

"Sorry?..."

"I was saying: that's not it. It's not that he doesn't mean what he says. After all, although I've known him since he was born, I never really know if he's joking or is serious at times."

"I see..." James replied hesitantly.

"What I meant by: not paying attention to his sarcasm. It's often because it's the truth and it can hurt us deeply."

The archaeologist did not expect such a statement. This briefly unsettled him, but he immediately found a way to turn it to his advantage. "'We' you say? His words hurt you..."

"No...well, yes once in a while...but I'm old enough not to cry like a child. scathing."

Mr. Connor took the hands of the young woman in front of him, then with a tender look conceded, "Elizabeth... I assure you that if you have any problem you can entrust it to me."

Embarrassed by the sudden contact, she tried to extricate herself gently. But obviously he had put more force into it. "Thank you. But my husband is there to hear all my complaints. And it's my turn to assure you that he always listens to me attentively. He often claims the opposite, but he has never read Pride and Prejudiced and yet know the story by heart thanks to my complaints about Mr. Wickham." this time the lady of the house pulled with more force and easily managed to get out of her friend's grip. Freed, she rose abruptly from the sofa. "Good! If now you will excuse me. I am still exhausted from the events of last night. I would appreciate it if you would come home then." of a determined step the countess went to open the doors of the living room "Thank you again for your visit. Snake will accompany you to the door." and without a last word, she headed for the stairs leading to her room.

The last one called by the hostess found himself waiting all along to beg for a service and hadn't moved from his place since he had accompanied the young woman to the living room earlier. He was surprised to see the doors open without being asked, and jumped at the sudden appearance of the two adults. Nevertheless, Snake had heard the last sentence of the countess, and intended to respect her order. He gradually approached the guest and avoiding touching him but remaining close showed him the voice to take with his right arm. "The exit is this way. Said Emily. Please follow me. Said Oscar."

The valet not having been there when Jasme was getting to know his master's wife; the American was somewhat disturbed by his behavior and the snakes circling around him. When Elizabeth called Snake he didn't expect it to be literal. Her eyes darted back and forth between this new character and the Countess for a moment before finally unjamming her throat.

"Wait!" Connor started to chase after her. "You didn't let me finish! Let me finish!" running after her down the stairs, he finally caught up with her, clinging to one of her wrists "Elizabeth! Please believe me. I didn't mean to offend you! I understand that you can be upset by my words. Only, trust me when I ask you to listen to me. The words engraved in my mind by the count are far from being insults against my person. If they overwhelm me so much it is because they are directed to you Elizabeth..."

The Countess did not turn, but made no move to get out of James' hands. Controlling her fury, she said "You have called me by my first name more than four times today. I remind you that my husband's title is also mine. I inherited it when we exchanged our vows. before the lord and her majesty the queen. Not to respect him comes to insult the man with whom the lord binds me, our mother to all the queen of England, and God himself." silence settled for a few seconds, the time for the American to let go of the mistress of the place. "Now, Mr. Connor. My mother, Marchioness Midford, raised me a lady. And though you have no title or accomplishment to your name... I'm going to let you express yourself one last time for this day. Don't let my goodness be used in vain. Be concise.” Finally she turned back to him. Her emerald pupils darkened with embarrassment and fatigue, still found a way to glow with fiery anger behind her eyelashes. ferociously the poor man under her.

The latter knew that what he had undertaken was dangerous. Criticizing the Earl in front of Elizabeth was equal to leaping into the abyss. But as long as there was a sliver of light at the end, he was willing to take the risk.

So, as she had ordered him, he did not procrastinate "At my first meeting with the count, when you had gone to change because the snow had marred your petticoats. I them a conversation with your husband. Seeing me as a threat in the face of your love for him, he degraded me without stopping. And in the end confessed to me that even if he did not love you, he knew that you would not leave him because you were too in love with his people and too stupid."

The Countess said nothing. Her eyes were wide open, and her lips parted imperceptibly. The silence grew heavy. Snake, who had previously started climbing the stairs to catch up with the man he was supposed to show the way out, had stopped when his mistress started talking. He had heard everything the Countess had said and very clearly what James had said. The valet didn't quite know where to stand. He hesitated to send a serpent towards Astre. But what had just happened did not fit on a piece of paper. So not even allowing himself to close his eyelids for a thousandth of a second, he waited for Elizabeth to make a gesture towards him.

Only after more than a minute of silence, nothing happened. Connor spoke again, "I hope you don't think I'm doing this to ridicule or upset you, Countess. I'm telling you this only with the best of intentions. To see you happy and safe." " he put his top hat on his head. "Looking forward to seeing you again, Madame Countess Phantomhive." Then descended the steps until arriving at the front door. Snake followed him, stumbling one step out of five, still startled by the altercation he had witnessed.

Looking dazed, the young woman began to travel to her apartments. The rustling of the fabric of her dress dragging on the marble of the corridor accompanied the clicking of the heels of her boots. It was barely 3:00 p.m., yet the exterior was only dimly lit. The mansion lights could have been turned on. But too focused on the sudden silence, Elizabeth didn't bother to turn around to flip the switch.

Eventually she arrived at her bedroom door. She opened it delicately, the wood and the screws creaking despite the care taken. With the same movement the Countess closed the door. Then at the same pace she had been walking down the hallway, she moved to the right side of the bed. Resting on the bedding, the weight of her body caused the mattress to sag where she lay. With the curtains not covering the windows, the young woman watched the snow falling calmly from the sky, a mesmerizing movement.

Then, as softly as her snowflakes, her memories of the previous night came back: her discussions with her friend; his defense of Madame Harcourt; the champagne, the dances, the punch... the aphrodisiac. His hasty exit from the Venrino mansion; the air stuck in his lungs; the coldness of his hands, and the frozen perspiration on his burning back. Nausea, the constant trembling of his legs; dizziness; the infamous twisting tingles in each of his tense limbs. The jolts of the road reverberate on the cabin of the car... Her husband's voice... His arms embracing her. His hands trying to get his gloves on his icy hands. Then the inn; an unpleasant employee; the lack of nightwear, the old look of their cramped bed. The crackling fire; the heavy wool on her body protecting her from the outside world. Her heart beating erratically from being so scantily clad and close to the one she loves. Following an eventful morning ensues. The unpleasant road, and the breakfast having been mediocre. At noon barely an hour with her husband. Then 2 p.m. the arrival of James. First happy. Then in a few minutes she was gone.

Elizabeth thought about every word he said. She didn't miss a single one. She wouldn't believe his last words. She refuses him. He is wrong.

Only, on the same cadence as the streams of salty water descending from his eyes to collapse on his pillowcase, a suspicion of doubt was created in his heart. Because despite all his bravado, his muscular strength, his agility and his endurance, his spirit seemed to want to remain weak and that overwhelmed him as much as everything else.

Maybe that was just too much for one day.

-x-

AYO WHAT'S UP!

I'm back! The school year is over. I don't have my year because of my health but also because the administration screwed up and suddenly none of my past evaluations count! And their response to that "ah low we're sorry"

...

You feel my rage...

Then I'm not going to lie. I'm not a perfect student, so of course some of my exams had to be missed.

I could have taken the catch-up seriously, but it was way too much to catch up on. Then I decided to focus on the International Days of Archeology. I took care of certain primary classes and showed them the results of my research during my internship with the archaeological association, which accepted me. I led them to open up to an archaeological approach seeking with me what certain thing could tell us.

And I don't regret anything!

On another day I even had the compliments of the deputy mayor and met people as passionate about history as I am! And I was told that I was exciting! My equals were happy to be there.

Although my health caught up with me during his archeology days, so I couldn't do them all. It saddened me but I was happy to have been able to be there as long as my body could.

Otherwise I hope you had a better year than me. It's summer vacation! let me know your successes and your failures!

« First « Prev Ch 20 of 23 Next »

-x-

Outside the door of Count Phantomhive's office, a scale-faced footman was pacing back and forth. Having witnessed earlier the hostile scene between his mistress and her friend, it was his duty to inform his lord that a man had exceeded propriety in the miscarriage of his wife. However, the servant wondered if it was wise to bother Smile for a quarrel... But the guest having uttered phrases discrediting his master in front of his wife and on his estate, it also seemed unreasonable to him not to. maintain.

Only, it happens that the count is working at this very moment; and everyone knows he hates being interrupted when he's going about his business. Still, each person who has served his lord, is in fact that his aversion to ignorance is all the greater. If he inadvertently learns that Snake was there when his name was insulted in front of the Countess; and that he did not have the intelligence to warn him of the fact. The valet's chances of survival would be greatly reduced.

So, inhaling gently through his nose and pushing the air out of his lungs silently through his mouth, he repeatedly banged his knuckles on the wood.

"Between." his master declared in a clear voice. The servant did as authorized. Opened the door, then entered the count's office.

Sitting straight: dress, impeccable hairstyle; looking dignified and focused; the noble brilliance against the light in the afternoon light; it seemed to Snake more and more intimidating to narrate the events of earlier.

Astre didn't pay her attention immediately. He scribbled two or three more lines before his cobalt eye turned to the man in the back of the room. After this fraction of a second, the lord of the place continued to rummage through his papers.

"Snake. It's not often that you come personally... Please come on and explain yourself."

The above-named did as ordered. His feet dragged him a respectable distance from his superior. However, despite his initial resolve, courage had failed him. He tried to mumble something, but had a hard time getting even a sound out.

Faced with the lack of reaction from his valet, the count spoke again "If you can't build a coherent sentence now, come back later when you have prepared your text in advance."

Although his words sounded harsh, Snake knew that Smile was only giving him an opportunity to express himself with ease later on. However, later would be too late.

"It's about Lizzy, said Emily..."

The young man looked up for a moment towards his servant "What's going on? Does she feel bad again?" but he did not stop working.

"The American was here, said Oscar..."

The incessant rustling of leaves and calamus rubbing on the grain of the paper suddenly stopped. Gently the count put his pen in his inkwell, then shifted the file which had occupied it until now. He leaned his elbows on his desk and intertwined his fingers. Then for the first time since Snake entered, Astre looked him straight in the eye. "I assume you're talking about James Connor...keep going..."

Pierced by the icy eye of his master. The servant describes what he had witnessed. He did his best to keep it brief without forgetting to mention even a single detail.

At the end of his story, the room which had become frigid, was now burning with the fulminating flames of the count's rage.

However, he did not let go of his anger right away. Through gritted teeth he ordered the only other man in the room, "Get out..."

Snake complied immediately.

Once alone, the noble sighed. An action that was intended to help soften the limbs of the person performing it, and thus relax them.

The Count was far from being appeased. Every muscle down to his hair was tense. He tried in vain to control his breathing, but the only thing it made him do was exhale loudly through his nose.

Taking a deep breath, he shouted "Sebastian!"

It took only a few seconds for the butler to appear before his master, curtsying, "Yes, my lord." he spoke, his serene smile not moving.

In a lower tone, the Count said "You knew he was there...Why didn't you tell me?..."

The demon looked at his prey straight in the only eye he had left "Well, Madame la comtesse already knew that. You represent her, but she also represents you. Was it really necessary to warn you twice?"

"You're having fun, aren't you...". The young man's only answer was an unhealthy smile from the creature in front of him.

They remained thus in silence for a moment. Star forced herself to think about many things. But they all end up clouded by her seething animosity towards Mr. Connor.

His face still furrowed in anger, he got up and headed for the exit. "Sebastian, prepare my rifle and a shooting gallery in the east garden." the servant bent down slightly then left to carry out his tasks.

The Count continued his walk towards his room. The force of his movements made his heels click loudly against the tiled floor of the hallway. His mind clouded by the last words of James reported by Snake, he no longer paid attention to his surroundings; so, when he was in front of his bedroom door, he opened it aggressively. This carried away by the momentum, knocked against the wall. He didn't pay attention until he saw the silhouette of Elizabeth asleep on their bed.

Suddenly his shoulders straightened up, then with extreme caution Astre went to close the wood he had earlier violated. He then gradually approached his wife, seeing that it had not awakened her, he exhaled softly. However, his relief was short-lived. She wasn't an easy person to get up from, but that didn't mean she was a heavy sleeper. A noise like that should have at least startled her.

The young man squats in front of his wife's face. The sunlight covered by the winter clouds didn't really help to have a clear vision. Nevertheless, he had no trouble distinguishing the salt residue on his cheekbones, the redness and swelling of his eyelids.

Realizing that these were the proofs of his lady's grief, his heart could not bear the sight; the organ shrank in a vice with a piercing tip and a ghostly hand crushed its airways to suffocate it.

In a mechanism of tenderness towards the young woman he had known since birth, his fingers tried to gently brush her bangs. At the same time he put his palm on his forehead. She didn't seem to have a fever. The count then slipped his knuckles between his nose and his lips. His breathing was regular.

Astre comes to the conclusion that she must simply be exhausted by her emotions.

He got up. Now having an overview of her body, he noticed that the braid he had made her that morning was still present. This made him laugh slightly. Elizabeth was a person very attached to appearances; that she didn't want his hair touched just because he had made a laughable attempt at a headdress was completely incomprehensible to her.

It was touching, but it couldn't be comfortable. He bent down, and slowly removed the ribbon holding his locks. Then as stealthily as possible untangled her strands. Knowing that she hadn't taken off her boots either, Astre shifted towards her feet. He lifted the bottom of her petticoats to see her shoes clearly, then began to remove the buttons. Without crochet it was difficult but after some erasures he finally got to the end and was able to take off his shoes.

Without thinking too much about his movements, the young man went to get a small blanket to cover her. Once done, he took his coat and headed for the east garden where he had sent Sebastian previously.

These tender gestures for Elizabeth did nothing to lessen his rage for Connor and his half-truths.

Not bothering to tie his extra garment properly, the Count raced down the hall stairs towards the exit door. After a quick stride towards the stand that his servant had prepared. Star snatched her rifle from Finnian's hands. The latter was a little surprised, but having been warned by Snake earlier he expected no less.

No one made a sound. The now stoic-looking young man aimed his weapon at the first target. The smell of powder freshly put into the barrel made him calm his breath. His breathing stabilized, he amply felt the weight of iron and lead resting in his hands. These without gloves, were fully impregnated with the smooth bark of the wood of the handle. His cobalt eye was already visualizing a hole in the center of his target. And that is what he did.

The first shot echoed in the silence of his lands. The smoke blurred his vision, mixing with the cool color of the season.

Astre lowered the point of the gun to the ground, and held out her free hand. Finnian rushed to his side with his kit.

Powder, rammer, bullet. Mechanical, technical gesture, a succession of movements practiced since he was 10 years old. Drop the powder into the barrel; the rammer plunges into the pipes compacting the chemical ashes; then the ammunition slips into the pipes, soon pushed itself by the rod. Remove the iron branch. Take aim. The pupil towards the tendrils of reds drawn on the round board. Hold your breath. Drawn

Again, the ball hits its target.

Count Phantomhive was in control. He was leading. With that in mind, he calmly resumed his earlier questions.

What did James Connor really want? Tell the truth to his wife?

Another shot rang out.

His thoughts continued: But it was no use. That's why he added a lie. His words were just meant to lower Elizabeth's regard for him.

The sound of gunpowder meeting fire erupted.

What an imbecile. However, the young man confessed that it was not completely meaningless. His wife is probably very resentful of the archaeologist at the moment, only having brandished her good faith and her almost always benevolent air. She wouldn't bother him for long.

The click of the weapon's mechanism exploded again.

Should he explain himself to the countess? Tell his version of the meeting between him and his friend face to face. The count was rather reluctant. He would look more like a culprit trying to make his case than anything else. It was better to wait for his partner to come directly to him to talk about it.

What if she never comes? Would she even say she saw Connor today? The odds are low. The young woman knows his aversion for his friend. Not wanting to upset him, she won't breathe words. He could try to talk about it subtly if the conversation calls for it. Asking her about her day after she asked her about hers as usual.

If she doesn't say anything, too bad. He will play the game.

For Connor? The young man doesn't know him well enough yet to know if he'll laugh in his face or continue, being careful that he doesn't suspect anything.

Astre didn't understand why James was acting like this. Love? Surely not. It was not the look of a loving man. Desire? It didn't quite look like it. But it was not a trail to erase. The pleasure of conquest? To snatch a woman already taken? Just surround yourself with pretty things? Or was he someone he had offended in the past, seeking revenge? Only the Earl does not remember any James Connor. It must be said that he has such a common name... Moreover, Sebastian had already provided him with a report on his person. His intentions will remain a mystery for now.

For now, the young man knew one thing. The American had started a battle for the feelings of his wife. He will play, but he will not go at the pace of the archaeologist, nor at his own pace. It will go at Elizabeth's pace.

Although something escapes him concerning the thoughts of the countess. The battle that Connor started is unfortunately on wars that Astre always ended up winning.

As the present shows, when it comes to being dear Lizzy's favorite, the one-eyed man just couldn't afford to lose.

The Count took aim, the gun held in his hands frozen with the biting cold. Despite this, his finger squeezed the trigger without a second of hesitation. The ball that had just been thrown would be the last shot on Phantomhive land for the day.

-x-

Hi!

I have no excuse... But the sea is super good!

Let's just say that every 26th of the month now I would have to post a chapter. Unless I posted one before of course.

So feel free to hit me up. I really want this story to move forward, especially since I have plenty of other stories for you to discover. Often I just lack the motivation or I spend too much time on tik tok and genshin. (this stuff eats my time it's unbelievable)

I repeat myself but I really want you to read my whole story.

See you next time! Lots of big kisses, then the two forbidden words: Welcome back!

-x-

More than a week had passed since James Connor's visit. The Phantomhive couple's relationship had not budged. Astre had no intention of advancing towards the Countess and forcing her to talk about her altercation with the archaeologist. He didn't show anything in front of her. A face of marble at each step.

Elizabeth seemed more embarrassed. Although his usual liveliness was still present. His eyes found themselves looking at his husband with concern from time to time.

The young man obviously noticed it. He then asked her if she had something in mind. But she only replied that the weather was dark and that her heart was heavy. The lie was clear. But he didn't see why he should ask again. Putting pressure on her wouldn't help.

So their days continued to pass. While taking care of his work, he taught his wife the business of the Fantom company. However, he was not together all the time. He gave her breaks. Especially when she was invited to tea parties. The social was as important as the budget, he told him. But oddly, despite that in mind, he still avoided going with her. Arguing that one Phantomhive in the world was enough to represent them.

She also continued to visit the orphanage. With the cold weather, many of the children had fallen ill. Several times she had pilfered blankets from the unused mansion to give them. When Sebastian found out he scolded her harshly. It made her feel like a child.

Elizabeth knew she could get the butler beaten for even thinking of contradicting her. However, the Countess didn't really see any point in it. Especially since it was he who had been in charge of the house's stocks since Astre's return. He knew better than her how to manage these matters. So instead of alerting her husband, she chooses to pout and a few soft eyes.

-x-

it's a very short chapter so the following chapter will not count as two chapters published in the month.

-x-

England's December days were always freezing. And this afternoon was no exception. It was snowing a little, but not enough to stop life. Thus, in a two-horse carriage driven by a valet in snakeskin, the Countess was wrapped in fur. Since she couldn't bring any more blankets under Sebastian's order. Elizabeth had decided to buy hot chocolate for the whole orphanage. But given the quantity, they could also count the surrounding farms and the village.

The sudden shaking of the cabin told the young woman that they had arrived. Soon Snake comes to open the door for him and then help him down. Despite the assistance of her servant, the mud and snow stained the bottom of her petticoats. His nose wrinkled slightly in disgust, but it didn't stay on his mind for long. At least ten children jumped on his legs to welcome him. She swayed slightly from the sudden weight, but didn't fall. As always they were telling a lot of things at the same time. Jumped up to get his attention. And tried to show him their creations.

Snake proceeded to abduct a few children by lifting them up and then placing them further away. But as soon as they put them down their little feet pointed them back to Elizabeth.

Maria didn't even try to approach her, and while laughing went straight to get the Countess's gifts from the car.

Seeing the treats. Other children come out of the building to help the woman who was looking after them.

Finally the silhouette of Madame Eloie appeared in the doorway and with three claps of her cane calmed the children and ordered them to return.

They complied, however the chuckles didn't go away completely.

The gaze weary of the years, the director directed her eyes towards the young woman. She shifted enough to let her social superior pass, then with her free hand invited her to come inside. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Madame la comtesse. Don't stay out in the cold. Come inside, please."

Elizabeth smiled, lifted her petticoats to walk more easily towards the orphanage "The pleasure is shared. I brought the best cocoa powder from London. I also brought biscuits; they come from a French factory, I hope they don't let us down."

While returning the young woman took off her headgear. Rémi comes to help him by taking his hat and his coat. She thanked him briefly, then followed Eloise into the main room.

When she returned she saw about twenty children scattered around the room with a big smile. They weren't moving or talking but she could see they were shaking with impatience. All waiting carefully to be given permission to speak.

She smiled back and waved her hand. They all responded with more or less enthusiasm.

She approached her usual armchair near the fireplace. But the latter being facing the flames, Elizabeth found it impractical to talk to children. So without too much difficulty she turned the old armchair, then finally sat down.

Soon, Madame Eloie joins them. All eyes fell on her. Slowly the old lady shifted her gaze to the orphans, then warned, "You may speak. But only after raising your hands and when the Countess allows you to. Am I clear?"

They nodded briskly.

"Good" said Eloise.

And suddenly, in a single momentum, lots of little hands rose up.

The young woman laughed lightly at their rush. Some put it on the tip of their toe to make themselves taller.

It was difficult for Elizabeth to choose who would speak first. After a few seconds of thinking, she saw a small figure with big glasses hanging over his nose standing on his chair ready to fall. To avoid a disaster she chooses "Lucas, you can talk but sit down first."

The above-named did as requested, and greeted happily "Hello!"

The Countess nodded "Hello, Luca.". Everyone was waiting for him to start talking again, but nothing came. So the young woman continued "Is there anything you would like to tell us?"

The little one shook his head from side to side. "Nope." his glasses having slipped a little he put them back on correctly.

Containing her laughter, Elizabeth slowly turned her face to the other children "Good. Who else?"

The hands went up again.

This time she chooses a girl. "Jane, please."

The little blonde lady got up from the floor. She took a few steps towards the guest, then a shy and awkward bow, "Good morning, Madame la comtesse."

"Hello, Jane." Lady Phatomhive remained polite and her tender smile did not waver. But deep down she wanted to melt at the polite gesture that was more than adorable. "I see you are diligently learning your etiquette. I'm very proud of you."

Blushing at the compliment, she whispers "Thank you.". Then after five seconds started talking "Can I ask you a question."

"Of course. I'm all yours."

"What's in the boxes?"

Madame Eloie's cane hit the ground, not expecting the sudden noise everyone jumped. "Jane! A well-behaved girl doesn't ask for the countenance of a present. Apologize now!"

"Pardon..."

The Countess thought it was exaggerated to raise your voice for such a small thing. It was normal for a child to be curious and excited about gifts. Only she would not challenge the authority of the headmistress in her establishment. She was the one taking care of the children after all.

Giving the same smile she had given him before and adding some cheer, Elizabeth excused him "It's nothing! I'm still very curious myself. It's not very wise, but for once let's forget."

The little girl smiled again.

"Good! You asked me a question, and mother always told me it's rude to leave a person unanswered. So here it is."

The young woman sat up and paused in her announcement to add dramatic effect. But the pause didn't seem to be enough for her as she added "Oh, finally maybe I shouldn't have brought it to you?"

"Why?" one of the children cried.

"Well, I don't know if that's something you're going to like." this is one of her moments when Lizzy would have liked to have the same talent as Astre for the theater because despite her best efforts to remain with a neutral face, an impish smile seemed stubborn to remain.

"We know you're playing with us!" laughed Tom.

"What is this? What is this?" another excited.

then suddenly returning hastily into the room with a large tray in his hands Rémi exclaimed "It's chocolate!"

All the little heads turned towards the voices of their elders to watch the steaming cups arrive.

Some went directly to the tables to wait for their drink while others rushed to their big brother. Old Eloise tapped the end of her cane again on the floor.

"Calme!"

No more breathing was heard.

"Go sit down. We don't have enough chairs, the older ones will be on the floor. And I don't want to see a cup or a cookie consumed before everyone is served."

The children listened attentively and as calm as children could be at the candy announcement, they sat down as ordered.

Her smile never leaving her face, Elizabeth watched them with uncontained joy. Not paying attention, she didn't see a little boy no taller than three apples approaching to pull her petticoats.

"Did you make the cookies?"

Now sensing the child's presence, she looked down at him, then replied, "No, not this time."

"You better, because yours weren't good." and he went to his chair.

With a slight twinge in her heart, the Countess whispered, "Thank you for your frankness, Oscar."

Snake and Maria came in with more trays and handed out the hot chocolates.

The overweight woman gave her cup to Elizabeth, then to her mistress. When she bent down to offer the drinks, the sleeves of her ill-fitting dress rose slightly. This will leave pieces of skin showing. It wouldn't have been a big story if the skin shown hadn't been stained blue. The Countess did not miss the deformed wounds, the flesh purple and yellowed by the blows. Only it was not his place to slander a husband who was not his. So she looked down at her cup and looked away.

Now all with their cups and biscuits in their hands, the children quietly waited for the agreement of the matron.

"Everyone to their cup?" Maria asked.

"Yes!" small voices answered in unison

"Make your thanks." ordered Madame Eloie

"Thank you, Madame la Comtesse!"

"Good, you can start."

And as soon as she allowed them, they jumped on it.

The sound of ceramics and crunchy mouthfeel in the cookies filled the room. Seeing them thus occupied, Elizabeth took advantage of this moment away from view to address the director "Madame Eloie?"

"Yes, madam countess?"

She swallowed her saliva with difficulty then leaned closer to her friend "I couldn't help noticing that at least five children were missing. Are they still in bed with a fever?"

Not missing the Countess' concern, Eloise assured her, "They are fine in bed, but they are getting better and better. They will certainly make it through the winter."

The young woman straightened up. "That's good to know." she even took a sip of her drink, then continued "They look more hardy this year. Have you changed their diet so they can hold the cold better?"

"Nope." the old lady was swirling the spoon in her cup "To tell you the truth Madame la comtesse. We had visits from a doctor recently."

"Really! Did he give you a price for the orphanage?"

"No. He does it for free." she took a sip.

At the understanding of this affair, Elizabeth becomes worried. Nobody agreed to work for nothing in return.

The lady at her side didn't miss the gleam in her guest's green eyes. "I know. I thought it was strange too. Then he told me he was a friend of yours."

The more she listened, the more the Countess found it suspicious. A friend? Doctor? She searched all her acquaintances and only one person came to mind. Only she wasn't on better terms with him at the moment. But jumping to a hasty conclusion is never the right thing to do.

"Oh, a friend? What's his name?" the young woman asked without showing her nervousness.

Madame Eloie will please her request to know. Only the cries of a little girl and hasty footsteps on the stairs were heard.

"No, no! You won't stop me! I have to show him before I die!"

A petite, curly-red haired lady walked into the living room dressed only in a shirt with a heavy blanket wrapped around her.

In a dramatic breath, the latter ran towards Elizabeth, sat down at her feet, then leaned her head on her knees.

Not wanting to hurt her, the Countess shifted her hot drink away from the girl as far as possible. "What's going on Lea? Considering your condition, should you be in bed?"

Sighing, the above-named exclaimed, "I can't. As you see, I am seriously ill. And before I die I want to show you."

The matron of the orphanage rolled her eyes "For the umpteenth time Lea, you are not going to die. Your fever is almost cured. On the other hand you should be ashamed to show yourself in such an outfit."

The lady of the Phantomhive house took the redhead in her arms and settled her on her lap, taking care that her whole body was well covered by the blanket. "What do you want to show me so earnestly that you can't wait to be cured."

The little one sniffled and pushing a few messy locks out of her face she declared, "My alphabet."

"Ah... Well I'm ready to listen to you if you go back to bed right after."

The orphan nodded briskly, then in a small voice began to sing "A; B; C; D; E; F; G... H... I... J; K; LMNOP; Q -"

But she couldn't continue her song, because a new person made her hear.

"Léa, I told you that you had to stay and rest!"

And to the great embarrassment of the Countess, the one she least wanted to see at this moment entered.

James' breath hitched as his hazel eyes met the emerald. "Elizabeth- Madam Countess... It's a pleasure to see you." he bowed politely.

Lips pursed, the young woman was kind enough not to leave him unanswered. "Mr. Connor. So you were the mysterious good soul. Thank you for giving of your person for these children."

"That's completely normal, Madame la Comtesse. I don't deserve your thanks."

With a stiff body, Elizabeth put the little girl on her two feet.

Léa was not really happy about it and shared it "But, I was talking! Madame Eloie says it's impolite to cut off the floor."

"I know, Léa. You will sing me the rest next time."

"I would be dead next time."

Everyone pretended not to hear the last sentence of the redhead, too absorbed by the sudden tension brought into the room by James and the countess.

Snake who had also had the right to his drink, almost spat it out when he saw the archaeologist at the door. Subsequently, seeing his mistress get up, he did the same. Then without waiting for his order, went to get his lady's business.

Elizabeth smiled as best she could "Good! I was very happy to see you all. Only I have work to do."

"You work!" Maria wondered before she could help herself.

"Well, you know, ever since I became my husband's apprentice. I rarely have a minute to myself. He's a very strict instructor." she recounted this hastily, and in a falsely amused tone.

The valet arrived with his coat. He helped her put it on while she continued to apologize "I wish you all a good day." she snatched his hat from Snake's hands and set it up wobbly. Elizabeth rushed down the hall "Don't forget to give their share of chocolate to those who are sick."

Not wanting to miss what was happening before their eyes. The orphan followed each of the adults' steps.

Wanting to remain polite but being extremely in a hurry to escape this situation. The Countess shook the orphanage director's hand abruptly. "Thank you again for your warm welcome!" impatiently opened the door, then fled in his car. "Looking forward to seeing you all again."

Snake snapped the reins impetuously for the horses to move forward. And as soon as she appeared she was gone.

Madame Eloie's cold eyes turned to James "I understand better why you are trying to see her through us." and she returned within the walls protecting them from the winter winds.

The American stood there for a moment looking at the last place where he saw Elizabeth. Then he felt a tug on his pants. He directed his attention to the weight.

"She wouldn't have left so quickly if you hadn't cut me off."

-x-

You go Lea! Tell him! *snaps fingers like a bitch*

And I said I would try.

You can count on me to give you one chapter a month! Except during my partials. There I would be out.

#black butler fanfiction

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