Warning: AU, Pseudo-Historical Romance, PG-13, Ran/Ken.
Author's Notes: Well, here it is. The sequel to "Tell Him That it Wasn't Love". Its pretty different from that story, obviously. I'm not sure if its better, worse, or the same. I guess you can tell me. I hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter One
The tour was deemed a great success, and by early October they had arrived back at the manor. It had taken nearly three months to tour the estate in its entirety. Although, it probably wouldn't have taken quite so long if Ken hadn't insisted on visiting each farm stead and holding. They had stayed at home the first few weeks, visiting those farms closest to the manor, but had had to travel to view the rest. But it had been worth it. He'd learned exactly what was going on where and who was who. He was delighted by everything and taken with everyone, and they seemed equally taken with him. Of course, Ran had already learned that it was nearly impossible to withstand the young Duke's innocent charm.
The day they finally arrived home with Omi was bright and clear with a gentle, but crisp breeze. They came riding into the yard and were met by the stable boy, Sam, whom Ran had hired shortly after his arrival in June. He welcomed them home with a grin missing its two front teeth, and took their horses in hand, leading them toward the stable. Ken took a deep breath and released it with a smile.
"Finally home," he said. "Everything looks the same from here."
"Thank God, we're finally out of the saddle," cried Omi. "I thought I'd get a break from traveling once we settled here. What's the first thing we do? Go off on another journey!"
"You could've stayed at the manor, Omi," Ran stated quietly.
"You know I don't trust you off on your own," his young servant stated.
Ken grinned and chuckled.
"And you're just as bad as he is!" Omi snapped at him.
Ken grinned broader. Over the last several months he'd learned what a mother hen Omi was. It had given him no end of amusement.
They paused in their approach to the manor when the door opened suddenly and a young man they'd never seen before barred their entrance. He stood stiffly at attention and they blinked up at him. He was wearing what appeared to be a new coat and breeches in dark green velvet, and yellow stockings. His shoes had been polished to a high shine.
"Good afternoon, Gentlemen," he stated loudly. "I regret to inform you that the Duke is not in residence presently. However, if you would care to leave your cards, or perhaps a message, I will be sure to pass them on to him upon his return."
The three companions stared up at him dumbly for a moment before Ken burst out in peels of laughter. Omi chuckled and even Ran couldn't fight a smile. Their behavior seemed to both confuse and annoy the young man. The two emotions fighting for possession of his face. He was about to respond when he was suddenly, and violently, shoved aside.
Molly flew out of the house and flung herself at Ken. He easily caught her and they spun around together, Ken still laughing.
"Oh, Master Ken! Welcome home!" she cried. "We were beginning to wonder. Your last letter to Ma said you'd be here last week."
"Sorry, Mol," he said releasing her. "We got held up."
"Master Ran," she said turning and curtsying to him with a cheeky grin.
"Molly," he bowed with a soft smile.
"Omi," she ruffled his blond head. "Did ya have fun?"
"Yeah, I guess," he smiled as he pushed her hand away. "But you'll have to explain to me why everyone does that to my hair? It was either that or I got my cheeks pinched!"
The stiff young man in the uniform had been taking everything in and now seemed like he was about to have a fit of apoplexy. He began stuttering and blushing.
"Your Grace!" he cried at last, finally giving up trying to apologize and bowing low.
"Oh, please don't bother with all that," Ken said smiling as the young man stood back up. "I'm just Ken, and this is Ran and Omi. And you are?"
"Young Bob, your Grace...I mean, Master Ken. I'm your butler," the young man said resuming his stance of attention.
"I didn't know I had one," Ken said blankly.
"Young Bob?" Ran asked quirking an eyebrow.
"Yeah, 'is Da works in the garden with Old Shoop," Molly said as they made their way into the house past Young Bob, who brought up the rear and closed the door.
"Old Bob's son, Young Bob," Omi chirped. "You people are strange."
Molly ruffled his hair again.
"May I ask who hired you?" Ran asked turning to the new butler.
"I did," a voice boomed from the hallway. Yohji stood there with his arms folded over his chest and a smirk gracing his mouth. He was as impeccably dressed as ever. Every inch the proper gentleman of wealth and prestige. "I've been here three days and already I'm bored. I had to do something. Do you like the uniform? I had the tailor make it up."
Ken grinned brightly at him but was interrupted from saying anything by the arrival of the rest of the household into the front hall. Hugs and greetings were exchanged by all, even Ran, Yohji noted with amusement. Several minutes passed before things quieted down and the servants returned to their afternoon tasks. Mrs. Hudson stating that their rooms were aired, and Rosie promising to cook Ken's favorite dishes for supper.
"What are you doing here, Yohji?" Ken asked with a big smile.
"Yes, I thought you said you'd see me at Christmas," Ran stated.
"I came to check up on you, of course," the Prince answered. "I had to be sure you weren't mistreating my cousin."
Ran and Yohji clasped hands warmly before the tall blond turned to Omi and ruffled his hair.
"Stop it! Why does everyone do that?" the young servant cried. "I'm going to check on our luggage. I'll be back in a bit."
He left through the door they'd just entered. Yohji turned his attention back to his two cousins. They positively glowed as they stood next to each other, not quite touching.
"I came for two reasons," Yohji smiled. "The first is in the study."
"What is it?" asked Ken excitedly.
"Plans for a new invention I thought you'd be interested in. It spreads seeds. Much more quickly and evenly than can be done by hand."
Ken's eyes grew wide as he imagined the implications of such a machine.
"Let's go see them!" he cried taking Ran by the hand and dragging him down the hall. Yohji followed smirking.
They entered the study which was unchanged and Yohji moved behind the desk. He rolled out the diagrams he'd purchased for the young Duke. Ken leaned over them excitedly and began studying them with great interest. The Prince glanced at his other cousin.
The red-headed Earl was standing a bit to one side and behind Ken, and he wasn't looking at the diagrams. Yohji blinked in surprise as his stoic cousin brushed one thigh against the Duke's backside as he leaned forward to peer over the brunette's shoulder. Ken ignored him and flipped to the next drawing. Frowning slightly, Ran leaned into the younger man's back. He rested his chin on Ken's shoulder and breathed lightly into his ear.
"Do you think we could build this?" Ken asked glancing up at the Prince.
Yohji almost face vaulted. He just couldn't bring himself to believe what he was seeing.
"Without a doubt," he answered as casually as he could manage.
Ran pouted and rubbed the tip of his nose along the edge of Ken's ear.
"Were they expensive?" Ken asked looking up at the Prince again.
Yohji blinked at him dumbly for a few seconds.
"No, they're a gift," he said.
Ran's pout became a frown. He pushed himself away from the Duke and stood glaring in the center of the room.
"If its not too much trouble, your Grace, I'd like to see you about something in private," he spat before turning and marching from the room.
Yohji looked down at Ken only to find him beaming a bright smile at the diagrams on the desk. He glanced at the Prince and winked.
"See you at dinner," he said gleefully, moving toward the door. Once there he stopped and turned back to his stunned cousin. "Better make that breakfast." With that he exited the study.
Yohji sat down rather hard in the desk chair. Slowly, a big grin spread across his face. Had he just seen what he thought he'd seen? Omi found him there shortly afterward.
"Well, I see it didn't take them long. I'm glad I told Rosie to hold off on all Ken's favorite dishes," he said flopping into one of the seats opposite the desk. He noted Yohji's grin and smirked.
"Ran is a tease," the Prince stated.
"Worse than you," Omi nodded. "At least its only with Ken."
"I've never seen Ran trying so hard, or quite so...frustrated," Yohji grinned.
Omi snorted. "I'm sure I've seen worse. They're like a pair of newlyweds. And they've had to be on very good behavior for quite some time now," he smiled.
"So," Yohji began, his eyes twinkling," how long have they been...?" He let his voice trail off as he arched his eyebrows.
"Yohji!" Omi cried indignantly while turning pink.
"Come on, share with your trusted friend, and master's devoted cousin. How long?"
Omi shifted in the chair for a moment and then leaned forward conspiratorially. "Since the day Ran got here."
The Prince felt his jaw drop. Surprised again by his two cousins. Omi smirked, pleased by his reaction, and nodded to indicate that he wasn't joking.
"I've learned not to underestimate Ken and his powers of persuasion," he said.
"What exactly happened on that fateful day?" Yohji asked unabashedly.
"I'm not exactly sure," Omi admitted, his brow furrowing for a moment in thought. "Ran hadn't been here a half an hour when suddenly they're both at the stable asking for a horse. They took Ran's travel bag and blanket and headed off toward the orchard. Came back just after sunset looking extremely pleased with themselves and Ken riding side saddle. The servants said they'd seen them kissing in the garden."
Yohji sat back in the chair with a self-satisfied smile on his face. He thought about his two cousins and how they'd looked together in the front hall. Both relaxed and happy. The change was especially apparent in Ran, but Ken had seemed much more sure of himself and comfortable with his position of authority. The Prince had no doubt that was Ran's doing. Yes, he was well pleased and it showed.
Omi snorted again. "Stop congratulating yourself and give me the news from Town," he said.
"There isn't much," the Prince said propping his feet upon the desk and leaning back. "Things are fairly quiet right now. The Crown Prince returned from his travels in the south and left immediately for the sport in the north."
Omi reflected for a moment on the fact that the Crown Prince was also Yohji's cousin, but that he never referred to him as such, and the two never socialized. Then he shook his head and replied, "You said in your last letter that he's employed the youth that was impersonating Ken?"
"Yes, much to the King's chagrin. He is a bright young man, but very quiet. I'd almost say sullen. He's about your age, Omi."
"Hunh. Well, at least he'll be out of trouble," Omi said without much conviction.
"We hope. Besides that there's nothing new. The same people in Town. The same parties and pleasures," Yohji sighed, then brightened. "Asuka lost a tooth," he declared proudly. "She has allowed me the honor of keeping it, but has promised the next shall go to Ken."
"He'll be thrilled," Omi laughed. "He really loves children. What about the Aunties and the Grand Duke and Duchess?"
"All well. They send their regards and are awaiting replies to their letters."
"We just received them," Omi chuckled.
They fell into a comfortable silence. Each thinking their own thoughts.
"Ahh," Yohji said at last. "The stained glass window. They went to the stained glass window in the old burned out church. That's just past the orchard, and perfect for a romantic tryst."
Omi nodded.
Taking his feet down off the desk top Yohji leaned forward. Omi watched him curiously, but made no move to follow suit.
"How does the staff feel?" the Prince asked seriously.
"I think at first they were surprised, but they adjusted quickly. So far anyway. We weren't here for much more than a month before we left on the tour. But I don't think any of them could go against any of Ken's wishes, they love and respect him too much. And Ran is wonderful to him. And...," Omi said suddenly leaning toward the Prince. "Ken has been much better for Ran than Richard ever was."
Yohji blinked in surprise and looked closely at Omi.
"How so?" he asked.
"Their relationship is more...equal."
Yohji looked confused.
"Equal?" he asked.
Omi nodded. What did that mean? The Prince had known Richard, and seen him and Ran together on many an occasion. He looked at Omi again, waiting for him to explain.
"There was an imbalance between them," Omi said after some thought. "Ran worshiped Richard. In some ways he was almost like a replacement father. He did love him. Dearly. But...that seemed to make them unequal somehow."
"Hmmm," Yohji sat back to think about that.
"And here's something else," Omi said also sitting back again. "If Richard had lived I doubt he would've outlasted Ken."
The Prince had often wondered about that himself. Ran had fallen for Ken almost immediately upon meeting him. His pursuit of the brunet held up only by his own insecurities and guilt about being true to Richard's memory.
"Ran loved Richard, but its as you said, he's never been so frustrated...or so satisfied," Omi chirped with a wicked glint in his eyes.
Yohji wouldn't have thought it was possible but he felt his cheeks heat up. Omi noticed and giggled. He never thought he'd see the great Prince Yohji Kuduo blushing like an innocent. The Prince shook his head and fixed the young servant with a look.
"What about Ken? He doesn't look up to Ran?"
Omi threw his head back and laughed.
"S-sorry," he stammered after a moment. "Yes, Ken does look up to Ran, but not like a father. He loves Ran, but doesn't aspire to be him."
"Ah," Yohji said nodding as understanding came to him. He had to admit that he could see Omi's point. Thinking back he could see the worship in Ran for the elegant, intellectual Richard had been. "So what's so amusing?"
Omi shook his head, still chuckling.
"You'll see," he smiled. "How long are you staying?"
"That remains to be seen," Yohji said enigmatically.
Ran awoke slowly as the morning light filtered between the heavy curtains drawn across the bedroom window. He was warm and comfortable and didn't want to move. He could feel Ken pressed up against him. His presence filling the red-head with contentment. The young Duke was curled up on his side against the pillows sound asleep. Ran was nestled against the Duke's back with his arms securely wrapped around Ken's waist. His cheek was resting in the flat between the Duke's shoulder blades. If he moved his head he could feel one of the many scars that covered his back.
Ran sighed and held Ken tighter. He loved waking up with the Duke in his arms. It had become so rare an event over the past few months he was starting to consider it a luxury. But now that they were home that would change. Ken had the forethought to request that the school room be converted into a bedroom for the Earl. The connecting door between the two rooms made it ideal. That was his official room. All of his clothes and personal items were in there, although he rarely was. They had considered using the master bedroom, but Ken's mother's room had been across the hall which seemed less convenient.
The red-headed Earl still marveled at the young Duke's determination. When he decided something there was almost no hope of changing his mind. All the changes to the school room had been completed before Ken and Omi had arrived home from Town. Ran smiled and rubbed his cheek against Ken's back. He felt himself to be very lucky.
A noise from down the hall drew him further from sleep. It was time to get up. They had already skipped dinner and probably breakfast. Although the servants had been very good about their relationship Ran didn't want to push it. There had been some resistance that first night. They'd arrived back in time for a late supper, which Ken insisted they have in the kitchen with his family. Ran was not opposed, but neither of them had been prepared for what awaited them.
Most of the staff had witnessed the scene in the garden and wanted to know exactly what was what. So Ken had told them bluntly and honestly which shouldn't have surprised anyone, but it had. A long discussion followed during which Ken had adamantly defended his new relationship with Ran, and demanded their support. To Ran's surprise they'd given it. His head was still spinning with the events of that afternoon and evening.
And here they were. He smiled and nuzzled the back of Ken's neck. There was a murmur followed by a groan of protest from the younger man. If there was work to be done Ken would spring from bed, but if there was nothing pressing he preferred to remain asleep. Ran could understand. Sleeping in was something the Duke hadn't been allowed to do in his life as a servant, and he enjoyed the new luxury.
Ran began gently kissing the back of Ken's neck. He knew it never failed to send tingles down the young man's spine, and he smiled as the Duke twitched. The red-head did so enjoy waking the brunet.
With a loud, annoyed groan Ken rolled over and curled back up against Ran. Burying his head in Ran's chest. Smirking, the Earl started to run his hands up and down the Duke's back. He could feel every one of Ken's scars. He'd memorized them. Their first night together he'd kissed each one as if he could erase the pain of Ken's abuse with his love. Of course, he couldn't but Ken seemed to appreciate his effort.
Ran bent his head forward and continued the attention he'd been paying to the back of Ken's neck. The younger man groaned again and raised his head to squint sleepily at his lover.
"Good morning, Love," Ran smiled.
Ken blinked before burying his head in the crook between Ran's neck and shoulder. The Duke nestled in against him and sighed. Ran couldn't blame him, he didn't want to get up either. They had been up rather late, or early. They'd snuck down to the kitchen sometime after one for left overs and had one more round before finally falling asleep. One of the more interesting aspects to Ken was that he could literally sleep anywhere, or almost anywhere. He had trouble sleeping in bed. Ran had discovered that if he wanted to wake up with the young Duke in his arms he had to thoroughly exhaust him the night before. Of course, that made it even harder to wake him in the morning, but the Earl didn't mind.
"KenKen," he purred softly. "We have to get up."
"Don't wanna," came the muffled reply from his shoulder.
Ran trailed his lips around Ken's ear and down his neck. He felt his lover shiver against him and tilt his head so the Earl had more access. Ran smiled against Ken's neck and continued kissing.
"See?" he asked. "There are things worth getting up for."
Ken pulled back and quirked an eyebrow at him. Ran chuckled.
"You're in a good mood," the younger man stated with a smirk.
"Certainly. We're home. No more pretending we're just friends. You in my arms every night. What is there to complain about?"
"All true," Ken said moving in for a kiss.
Before Ran could oblige him, however, the bedroom door flew open and Yohji strode in fully dressed but yawning.
"Gods, but you people get up early," he said throwing himself down on the foot of their bed. "You missed breakfast."
The couple stared at him dumbfounded as he stretched out and yawned again tucking his arms behind his head.
"Yohji!!!" Ken cried sitting up, his face the color of Ran's hair.
Ran sighed and sat back against the pillows calmly folding his arms across his bare chest.
"Yes, Cousin Ken?"
"W-what are you doing in here?!" the Duke demanded while attempting to cover himself with the rumpled sheet.
"You said you'd see me at breakfast and you, dear Cousin, neglected to attend," pointed out the Prince. "I simply came to find you."
"Now you've found us. Get out!" Ken commanded hotly.
"And to deliver this letter to Ran," Yohji said pulling forth a parcel of papers from his waistcoat. "This is the other reason I came to visit."
Ran's eyebrows peaked in interest and he reached forward to retrieve the letter from his cousin. Ken beat him to it. He ripped the letter violently out of the Prince's hand and thrust it at Ran while continuing to glare at Yohji.
"Now get out," he spat.
"Its from your mother," Yohji said ignoring the fuming Duke.
Ran opened the letter and began to read its contents. Ken leaned back to scowl at the letter instead of at Yohji until the Prince poked his foot to get his attention.
"You were the epitome of masculine beauty lying there in my cousin's arms," he smirked.
Ken growled and threw a pillow at him. The Prince deftly caught it and tucked it under his head.
"Thank you, Cousin," he said. "Just what I needed."
Ken kicked him under the covers, but it did no good. Within moments the Prince was snoring. The young Duke redirected his attention to the Earl beside him. Ran was frowning thoughtfully.
"What does it say?" Ken asked in concern.
"My mother requires my services at our family estate," he said still perusing the letter. "She says she needs my advice about some work she wants done on the east wing."
"At your estate? You mean leave again?" Ken asked, worried.
"I'm afraid so. Although, she knows I always agree with her decisions, so I don't know why she would need me for this. She knows the house is her's even though its legally in my name." Ran flipped the pages back to reread a bit.
I go with you?"
He looked up at Ken's quiet question and blinked in surprise. The young Duke looked worried. Ran smiled softly and placed an arm around his shoulders to pull Ken against his side. He placed a gentle kiss to his forehead.
"Of course," he said. "I don't want to go anywhere without you. And my mother would never forgive me if I failed to introduce you. Of course you will come. I was just hoping we could stay here for a while. I had intended for you to meet them in January when we travel back to Town. It was to be a surprise."
"You told your mother about me?" Ken asked with a big smile.
"Yes," Ran answered with a shy smile.
Ken nuzzled Ran's chin with his nose.
"Did you tell her everything?"
"I told her enough," Ran said kissing the tip of Ken's nose. He handed his letter over to Ken so he could read it, and then kicked Yohji hard under the covers. The Prince grunted in response.
"Yohji!" Ran growled fiercely.
"Hmm?" the Prince opened one eye.
"Get up. We're leaving. Go find Omi."
"We're leaving?" Yohji asked sitting up. "Where are we going?"
"We are going to my mother's, you are going back to Town," Ran said getting out of bed and pulling on his dressing gown.
Yohji stretched and yawned.
"I took the trouble of ordering hot water so you each could take a bath this morning," he said getting up and casting a significant look at them. "Don't bother to thank me."
He stepped out into the hall and bellowed for Omi before slamming the door behind him.
"And to think I was glad to see him," Ken pouted.
Author's Notes After: Well, there it is. Chapter 1! What'd ya think? Enough fan service? No? Don't worry, there'll be more (its never enough for me either), but remember so far I'm a PG-13 author. Sorry, but I don't write the hard stuff very well. Please leave a review! Please! Please!
There are four people who reviewed my last story that didn't leave me their email, so I couldn't thank them and I would like to do so now.
XXLil Yu JahXx: Thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the last one, I hope you'll like this one too. Yes, the ending was a bit abrupt, but I actually lengthened it for you guys! It used to be shorter. O.O
Lychee2: Yay! I'm glad you liked it! Yes, Sneller is a sneaky, back-stabbing, money-grubbing, son-of-a-whore, but he's not in this story. Sorry! YOU'LL have to wait for story #5! Although, he may make brief appearances before then. The dancing lessons are forthcoming, but...well, you'll see.
Sandy: Thank you so much, I'm glad you liked the ending. And so far I've written one sequel. This one. But there are plans for at least five stories total. I have ideas for the others, but nothing written as yet.
swtjemz: Thanks, I'm glad you liked it! I did try to email you, but I got a notice saying that you were on vacation, so I'm including this here too. Schwarz will eventually show up. I'm trying to decide exactly how good, bad, or otherwise to make them. They will get a grand entrance in story three. I promise.
Author's Notes: Well, here it is. The sequel to "Tell Him That it Wasn't Love". Its pretty different from that story, obviously. I'm not sure if its better, worse, or the same. I guess you can tell me. I hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: Weiss belongs to Takehito Koyasu and Project Weiss.
Once I Was Loved
Chapter One
The tour was deemed a great success, and by early October they had arrived back at the manor. It had taken nearly three months to tour the estate in its entirety. Although, it probably wouldn't have taken quite so long if Ken hadn't insisted on visiting each farm stead and holding. They had stayed at home the first few weeks, visiting those farms closest to the manor, but had had to travel to view the rest. But it had been worth it. He'd learned exactly what was going on where and who was who. He was delighted by everything and taken with everyone, and they seemed equally taken with him. Of course, Ran had already learned that it was nearly impossible to withstand the young Duke's innocent charm.
The day they finally arrived home with Omi was bright and clear with a gentle, but crisp breeze. They came riding into the yard and were met by the stable boy, Sam, whom Ran had hired shortly after his arrival in June. He welcomed them home with a grin missing its two front teeth, and took their horses in hand, leading them toward the stable. Ken took a deep breath and released it with a smile.
"Finally home," he said. "Everything looks the same from here."
"Thank God, we're finally out of the saddle," cried Omi. "I thought I'd get a break from traveling once we settled here. What's the first thing we do? Go off on another journey!"
"You could've stayed at the manor, Omi," Ran stated quietly.
"You know I don't trust you off on your own," his young servant stated.
Ken grinned and chuckled.
"And you're just as bad as he is!" Omi snapped at him.
Ken grinned broader. Over the last several months he'd learned what a mother hen Omi was. It had given him no end of amusement.
They paused in their approach to the manor when the door opened suddenly and a young man they'd never seen before barred their entrance. He stood stiffly at attention and they blinked up at him. He was wearing what appeared to be a new coat and breeches in dark green velvet, and yellow stockings. His shoes had been polished to a high shine.
"Good afternoon, Gentlemen," he stated loudly. "I regret to inform you that the Duke is not in residence presently. However, if you would care to leave your cards, or perhaps a message, I will be sure to pass them on to him upon his return."
The three companions stared up at him dumbly for a moment before Ken burst out in peels of laughter. Omi chuckled and even Ran couldn't fight a smile. Their behavior seemed to both confuse and annoy the young man. The two emotions fighting for possession of his face. He was about to respond when he was suddenly, and violently, shoved aside.
Molly flew out of the house and flung herself at Ken. He easily caught her and they spun around together, Ken still laughing.
"Oh, Master Ken! Welcome home!" she cried. "We were beginning to wonder. Your last letter to Ma said you'd be here last week."
"Sorry, Mol," he said releasing her. "We got held up."
"Master Ran," she said turning and curtsying to him with a cheeky grin.
"Molly," he bowed with a soft smile.
"Omi," she ruffled his blond head. "Did ya have fun?"
"Yeah, I guess," he smiled as he pushed her hand away. "But you'll have to explain to me why everyone does that to my hair? It was either that or I got my cheeks pinched!"
The stiff young man in the uniform had been taking everything in and now seemed like he was about to have a fit of apoplexy. He began stuttering and blushing.
"Your Grace!" he cried at last, finally giving up trying to apologize and bowing low.
"Oh, please don't bother with all that," Ken said smiling as the young man stood back up. "I'm just Ken, and this is Ran and Omi. And you are?"
"Young Bob, your Grace...I mean, Master Ken. I'm your butler," the young man said resuming his stance of attention.
"I didn't know I had one," Ken said blankly.
"Young Bob?" Ran asked quirking an eyebrow.
"Yeah, 'is Da works in the garden with Old Shoop," Molly said as they made their way into the house past Young Bob, who brought up the rear and closed the door.
"Old Bob's son, Young Bob," Omi chirped. "You people are strange."
Molly ruffled his hair again.
"May I ask who hired you?" Ran asked turning to the new butler.
"I did," a voice boomed from the hallway. Yohji stood there with his arms folded over his chest and a smirk gracing his mouth. He was as impeccably dressed as ever. Every inch the proper gentleman of wealth and prestige. "I've been here three days and already I'm bored. I had to do something. Do you like the uniform? I had the tailor make it up."
Ken grinned brightly at him but was interrupted from saying anything by the arrival of the rest of the household into the front hall. Hugs and greetings were exchanged by all, even Ran, Yohji noted with amusement. Several minutes passed before things quieted down and the servants returned to their afternoon tasks. Mrs. Hudson stating that their rooms were aired, and Rosie promising to cook Ken's favorite dishes for supper.
"What are you doing here, Yohji?" Ken asked with a big smile.
"Yes, I thought you said you'd see me at Christmas," Ran stated.
"I came to check up on you, of course," the Prince answered. "I had to be sure you weren't mistreating my cousin."
Ran and Yohji clasped hands warmly before the tall blond turned to Omi and ruffled his hair.
"Stop it! Why does everyone do that?" the young servant cried. "I'm going to check on our luggage. I'll be back in a bit."
He left through the door they'd just entered. Yohji turned his attention back to his two cousins. They positively glowed as they stood next to each other, not quite touching.
"I came for two reasons," Yohji smiled. "The first is in the study."
"What is it?" asked Ken excitedly.
"Plans for a new invention I thought you'd be interested in. It spreads seeds. Much more quickly and evenly than can be done by hand."
Ken's eyes grew wide as he imagined the implications of such a machine.
"Let's go see them!" he cried taking Ran by the hand and dragging him down the hall. Yohji followed smirking.
They entered the study which was unchanged and Yohji moved behind the desk. He rolled out the diagrams he'd purchased for the young Duke. Ken leaned over them excitedly and began studying them with great interest. The Prince glanced at his other cousin.
The red-headed Earl was standing a bit to one side and behind Ken, and he wasn't looking at the diagrams. Yohji blinked in surprise as his stoic cousin brushed one thigh against the Duke's backside as he leaned forward to peer over the brunette's shoulder. Ken ignored him and flipped to the next drawing. Frowning slightly, Ran leaned into the younger man's back. He rested his chin on Ken's shoulder and breathed lightly into his ear.
"Do you think we could build this?" Ken asked glancing up at the Prince.
Yohji almost face vaulted. He just couldn't bring himself to believe what he was seeing.
"Without a doubt," he answered as casually as he could manage.
Ran pouted and rubbed the tip of his nose along the edge of Ken's ear.
"Were they expensive?" Ken asked looking up at the Prince again.
Yohji blinked at him dumbly for a few seconds.
"No, they're a gift," he said.
Ran's pout became a frown. He pushed himself away from the Duke and stood glaring in the center of the room.
"If its not too much trouble, your Grace, I'd like to see you about something in private," he spat before turning and marching from the room.
Yohji looked down at Ken only to find him beaming a bright smile at the diagrams on the desk. He glanced at the Prince and winked.
"See you at dinner," he said gleefully, moving toward the door. Once there he stopped and turned back to his stunned cousin. "Better make that breakfast." With that he exited the study.
Yohji sat down rather hard in the desk chair. Slowly, a big grin spread across his face. Had he just seen what he thought he'd seen? Omi found him there shortly afterward.
"Well, I see it didn't take them long. I'm glad I told Rosie to hold off on all Ken's favorite dishes," he said flopping into one of the seats opposite the desk. He noted Yohji's grin and smirked.
"Ran is a tease," the Prince stated.
"Worse than you," Omi nodded. "At least its only with Ken."
"I've never seen Ran trying so hard, or quite so...frustrated," Yohji grinned.
Omi snorted. "I'm sure I've seen worse. They're like a pair of newlyweds. And they've had to be on very good behavior for quite some time now," he smiled.
"So," Yohji began, his eyes twinkling," how long have they been...?" He let his voice trail off as he arched his eyebrows.
"Yohji!" Omi cried indignantly while turning pink.
"Come on, share with your trusted friend, and master's devoted cousin. How long?"
Omi shifted in the chair for a moment and then leaned forward conspiratorially. "Since the day Ran got here."
The Prince felt his jaw drop. Surprised again by his two cousins. Omi smirked, pleased by his reaction, and nodded to indicate that he wasn't joking.
"I've learned not to underestimate Ken and his powers of persuasion," he said.
"What exactly happened on that fateful day?" Yohji asked unabashedly.
"I'm not exactly sure," Omi admitted, his brow furrowing for a moment in thought. "Ran hadn't been here a half an hour when suddenly they're both at the stable asking for a horse. They took Ran's travel bag and blanket and headed off toward the orchard. Came back just after sunset looking extremely pleased with themselves and Ken riding side saddle. The servants said they'd seen them kissing in the garden."
Yohji sat back in the chair with a self-satisfied smile on his face. He thought about his two cousins and how they'd looked together in the front hall. Both relaxed and happy. The change was especially apparent in Ran, but Ken had seemed much more sure of himself and comfortable with his position of authority. The Prince had no doubt that was Ran's doing. Yes, he was well pleased and it showed.
Omi snorted again. "Stop congratulating yourself and give me the news from Town," he said.
"There isn't much," the Prince said propping his feet upon the desk and leaning back. "Things are fairly quiet right now. The Crown Prince returned from his travels in the south and left immediately for the sport in the north."
Omi reflected for a moment on the fact that the Crown Prince was also Yohji's cousin, but that he never referred to him as such, and the two never socialized. Then he shook his head and replied, "You said in your last letter that he's employed the youth that was impersonating Ken?"
"Yes, much to the King's chagrin. He is a bright young man, but very quiet. I'd almost say sullen. He's about your age, Omi."
"Hunh. Well, at least he'll be out of trouble," Omi said without much conviction.
"We hope. Besides that there's nothing new. The same people in Town. The same parties and pleasures," Yohji sighed, then brightened. "Asuka lost a tooth," he declared proudly. "She has allowed me the honor of keeping it, but has promised the next shall go to Ken."
"He'll be thrilled," Omi laughed. "He really loves children. What about the Aunties and the Grand Duke and Duchess?"
"All well. They send their regards and are awaiting replies to their letters."
"We just received them," Omi chuckled.
They fell into a comfortable silence. Each thinking their own thoughts.
"Ahh," Yohji said at last. "The stained glass window. They went to the stained glass window in the old burned out church. That's just past the orchard, and perfect for a romantic tryst."
Omi nodded.
Taking his feet down off the desk top Yohji leaned forward. Omi watched him curiously, but made no move to follow suit.
"How does the staff feel?" the Prince asked seriously.
"I think at first they were surprised, but they adjusted quickly. So far anyway. We weren't here for much more than a month before we left on the tour. But I don't think any of them could go against any of Ken's wishes, they love and respect him too much. And Ran is wonderful to him. And...," Omi said suddenly leaning toward the Prince. "Ken has been much better for Ran than Richard ever was."
Yohji blinked in surprise and looked closely at Omi.
"How so?" he asked.
"Their relationship is more...equal."
Yohji looked confused.
"Equal?" he asked.
Omi nodded. What did that mean? The Prince had known Richard, and seen him and Ran together on many an occasion. He looked at Omi again, waiting for him to explain.
"There was an imbalance between them," Omi said after some thought. "Ran worshiped Richard. In some ways he was almost like a replacement father. He did love him. Dearly. But...that seemed to make them unequal somehow."
"Hmmm," Yohji sat back to think about that.
"And here's something else," Omi said also sitting back again. "If Richard had lived I doubt he would've outlasted Ken."
The Prince had often wondered about that himself. Ran had fallen for Ken almost immediately upon meeting him. His pursuit of the brunet held up only by his own insecurities and guilt about being true to Richard's memory.
"Ran loved Richard, but its as you said, he's never been so frustrated...or so satisfied," Omi chirped with a wicked glint in his eyes.
Yohji wouldn't have thought it was possible but he felt his cheeks heat up. Omi noticed and giggled. He never thought he'd see the great Prince Yohji Kuduo blushing like an innocent. The Prince shook his head and fixed the young servant with a look.
"What about Ken? He doesn't look up to Ran?"
Omi threw his head back and laughed.
"S-sorry," he stammered after a moment. "Yes, Ken does look up to Ran, but not like a father. He loves Ran, but doesn't aspire to be him."
"Ah," Yohji said nodding as understanding came to him. He had to admit that he could see Omi's point. Thinking back he could see the worship in Ran for the elegant, intellectual Richard had been. "So what's so amusing?"
Omi shook his head, still chuckling.
"You'll see," he smiled. "How long are you staying?"
"That remains to be seen," Yohji said enigmatically.
Ran awoke slowly as the morning light filtered between the heavy curtains drawn across the bedroom window. He was warm and comfortable and didn't want to move. He could feel Ken pressed up against him. His presence filling the red-head with contentment. The young Duke was curled up on his side against the pillows sound asleep. Ran was nestled against the Duke's back with his arms securely wrapped around Ken's waist. His cheek was resting in the flat between the Duke's shoulder blades. If he moved his head he could feel one of the many scars that covered his back.
Ran sighed and held Ken tighter. He loved waking up with the Duke in his arms. It had become so rare an event over the past few months he was starting to consider it a luxury. But now that they were home that would change. Ken had the forethought to request that the school room be converted into a bedroom for the Earl. The connecting door between the two rooms made it ideal. That was his official room. All of his clothes and personal items were in there, although he rarely was. They had considered using the master bedroom, but Ken's mother's room had been across the hall which seemed less convenient.
The red-headed Earl still marveled at the young Duke's determination. When he decided something there was almost no hope of changing his mind. All the changes to the school room had been completed before Ken and Omi had arrived home from Town. Ran smiled and rubbed his cheek against Ken's back. He felt himself to be very lucky.
A noise from down the hall drew him further from sleep. It was time to get up. They had already skipped dinner and probably breakfast. Although the servants had been very good about their relationship Ran didn't want to push it. There had been some resistance that first night. They'd arrived back in time for a late supper, which Ken insisted they have in the kitchen with his family. Ran was not opposed, but neither of them had been prepared for what awaited them.
Most of the staff had witnessed the scene in the garden and wanted to know exactly what was what. So Ken had told them bluntly and honestly which shouldn't have surprised anyone, but it had. A long discussion followed during which Ken had adamantly defended his new relationship with Ran, and demanded their support. To Ran's surprise they'd given it. His head was still spinning with the events of that afternoon and evening.
And here they were. He smiled and nuzzled the back of Ken's neck. There was a murmur followed by a groan of protest from the younger man. If there was work to be done Ken would spring from bed, but if there was nothing pressing he preferred to remain asleep. Ran could understand. Sleeping in was something the Duke hadn't been allowed to do in his life as a servant, and he enjoyed the new luxury.
Ran began gently kissing the back of Ken's neck. He knew it never failed to send tingles down the young man's spine, and he smiled as the Duke twitched. The red-head did so enjoy waking the brunet.
With a loud, annoyed groan Ken rolled over and curled back up against Ran. Burying his head in Ran's chest. Smirking, the Earl started to run his hands up and down the Duke's back. He could feel every one of Ken's scars. He'd memorized them. Their first night together he'd kissed each one as if he could erase the pain of Ken's abuse with his love. Of course, he couldn't but Ken seemed to appreciate his effort.
Ran bent his head forward and continued the attention he'd been paying to the back of Ken's neck. The younger man groaned again and raised his head to squint sleepily at his lover.
"Good morning, Love," Ran smiled.
Ken blinked before burying his head in the crook between Ran's neck and shoulder. The Duke nestled in against him and sighed. Ran couldn't blame him, he didn't want to get up either. They had been up rather late, or early. They'd snuck down to the kitchen sometime after one for left overs and had one more round before finally falling asleep. One of the more interesting aspects to Ken was that he could literally sleep anywhere, or almost anywhere. He had trouble sleeping in bed. Ran had discovered that if he wanted to wake up with the young Duke in his arms he had to thoroughly exhaust him the night before. Of course, that made it even harder to wake him in the morning, but the Earl didn't mind.
"KenKen," he purred softly. "We have to get up."
"Don't wanna," came the muffled reply from his shoulder.
Ran trailed his lips around Ken's ear and down his neck. He felt his lover shiver against him and tilt his head so the Earl had more access. Ran smiled against Ken's neck and continued kissing.
"See?" he asked. "There are things worth getting up for."
Ken pulled back and quirked an eyebrow at him. Ran chuckled.
"You're in a good mood," the younger man stated with a smirk.
"Certainly. We're home. No more pretending we're just friends. You in my arms every night. What is there to complain about?"
"All true," Ken said moving in for a kiss.
Before Ran could oblige him, however, the bedroom door flew open and Yohji strode in fully dressed but yawning.
"Gods, but you people get up early," he said throwing himself down on the foot of their bed. "You missed breakfast."
The couple stared at him dumbfounded as he stretched out and yawned again tucking his arms behind his head.
"Yohji!!!" Ken cried sitting up, his face the color of Ran's hair.
Ran sighed and sat back against the pillows calmly folding his arms across his bare chest.
"Yes, Cousin Ken?"
"W-what are you doing in here?!" the Duke demanded while attempting to cover himself with the rumpled sheet.
"You said you'd see me at breakfast and you, dear Cousin, neglected to attend," pointed out the Prince. "I simply came to find you."
"Now you've found us. Get out!" Ken commanded hotly.
"And to deliver this letter to Ran," Yohji said pulling forth a parcel of papers from his waistcoat. "This is the other reason I came to visit."
Ran's eyebrows peaked in interest and he reached forward to retrieve the letter from his cousin. Ken beat him to it. He ripped the letter violently out of the Prince's hand and thrust it at Ran while continuing to glare at Yohji.
"Now get out," he spat.
"Its from your mother," Yohji said ignoring the fuming Duke.
Ran opened the letter and began to read its contents. Ken leaned back to scowl at the letter instead of at Yohji until the Prince poked his foot to get his attention.
"You were the epitome of masculine beauty lying there in my cousin's arms," he smirked.
Ken growled and threw a pillow at him. The Prince deftly caught it and tucked it under his head.
"Thank you, Cousin," he said. "Just what I needed."
Ken kicked him under the covers, but it did no good. Within moments the Prince was snoring. The young Duke redirected his attention to the Earl beside him. Ran was frowning thoughtfully.
"What does it say?" Ken asked in concern.
"My mother requires my services at our family estate," he said still perusing the letter. "She says she needs my advice about some work she wants done on the east wing."
"At your estate? You mean leave again?" Ken asked, worried.
"I'm afraid so. Although, she knows I always agree with her decisions, so I don't know why she would need me for this. She knows the house is her's even though its legally in my name." Ran flipped the pages back to reread a bit.
I go with you?"
He looked up at Ken's quiet question and blinked in surprise. The young Duke looked worried. Ran smiled softly and placed an arm around his shoulders to pull Ken against his side. He placed a gentle kiss to his forehead.
"Of course," he said. "I don't want to go anywhere without you. And my mother would never forgive me if I failed to introduce you. Of course you will come. I was just hoping we could stay here for a while. I had intended for you to meet them in January when we travel back to Town. It was to be a surprise."
"You told your mother about me?" Ken asked with a big smile.
"Yes," Ran answered with a shy smile.
Ken nuzzled Ran's chin with his nose.
"Did you tell her everything?"
"I told her enough," Ran said kissing the tip of Ken's nose. He handed his letter over to Ken so he could read it, and then kicked Yohji hard under the covers. The Prince grunted in response.
"Yohji!" Ran growled fiercely.
"Hmm?" the Prince opened one eye.
"Get up. We're leaving. Go find Omi."
"We're leaving?" Yohji asked sitting up. "Where are we going?"
"We are going to my mother's, you are going back to Town," Ran said getting out of bed and pulling on his dressing gown.
Yohji stretched and yawned.
"I took the trouble of ordering hot water so you each could take a bath this morning," he said getting up and casting a significant look at them. "Don't bother to thank me."
He stepped out into the hall and bellowed for Omi before slamming the door behind him.
"And to think I was glad to see him," Ken pouted.
Author's Notes After: Well, there it is. Chapter 1! What'd ya think? Enough fan service? No? Don't worry, there'll be more (its never enough for me either), but remember so far I'm a PG-13 author. Sorry, but I don't write the hard stuff very well. Please leave a review! Please! Please!
There are four people who reviewed my last story that didn't leave me their email, so I couldn't thank them and I would like to do so now.
XXLil Yu JahXx: Thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the last one, I hope you'll like this one too. Yes, the ending was a bit abrupt, but I actually lengthened it for you guys! It used to be shorter. O.O
Lychee2: Yay! I'm glad you liked it! Yes, Sneller is a sneaky, back-stabbing, money-grubbing, son-of-a-whore, but he's not in this story. Sorry! YOU'LL have to wait for story #5! Although, he may make brief appearances before then. The dancing lessons are forthcoming, but...well, you'll see.
Sandy: Thank you so much, I'm glad you liked the ending. And so far I've written one sequel. This one. But there are plans for at least five stories total. I have ideas for the others, but nothing written as yet.
swtjemz: Thanks, I'm glad you liked it! I did try to email you, but I got a notice saying that you were on vacation, so I'm including this here too. Schwarz will eventually show up. I'm trying to decide exactly how good, bad, or otherwise to make them. They will get a grand entrance in story three. I promise.