Gankutsuou
Edmond/Albert
Line: "I said that you are necessary to me, and that was not a lie."

Always the Unexpected

Albert stood in the living room of number 30 Champs-Elysees, nervous and fidgeting. The Count of Monte Cristo sat on the couch before him, as calm as ever. He gave off this air of uncaring that made Albert uneasy, even as he was awed by him.

"I just… I wanted to thank you, Count. That's twice you've saved my life, and I have done nothing in return," he was afraid that he was being too obvious, trying to make himself important in the Count's life.

"On the contrary, you have repaid me in full for your first life. Did I not ask to be introduced into Paris society? You have done what I asked."

Albert bowed his head. "That's hardly the same as saving my life! I am indebted to you, Count. I am sure my family feels the same...we could work something out."

"I need nothing that you would think to offer me, Albert," the Count said, words harsher than his tone implied. "Believe me when I tell you, you will repay me one day. I said that you are necessary to me, and that was not a lie. When the day comes, I will call on your debt, and you won't have a choice but to answer."

Albert looked up, "I will answer!" he agreed energetically. "Anything you need, Count, I swear it."

The Count barely managed to hide his smirk, but instead offered the boy a full smile. He stood, and crossed the room, leaving little space between himself and Albert. "You are so quick to offer, Viscount, when you do not even know what it is you are offering. How can you be so sure that you will be willing, when the time comes?"

Albert shuddered slightly, but didn't move back. He licked his lips unconsciously, and this time the Count did not hide his smirk, although it passed quickly. "B-Because anything is worth my life, if it's in my power to pay."

The Count leaned even closer, whispering in his ear. "Anything?"

Albert was feeling truly nervous now, but the Count pulled back before he could make a reply and laughed. "That's not a very nice joke," he said sullenly, wiping his palms on his legs.

"Oh, I am far from joking. But we can forget all of this for now; there is time before I will need your assistance."

Albert looked surprised, and then slightly disappointed. The Count studied his changing emotions, watching as Albert struggled to get them under control. "I won't forget, Count," he said carefully, after a few moments.

"I wouldn't expect you to," he said, smiling to himself once more.