Hey! It's been SOOOOOO long since I've updated. Bet many of you readers would have forgotten what the story is. Sorry, though I've said I would update after three months, time forbade me to do so. Hence this is the earliest I can update my story... TAT

Disclaimer: Me own nothing!

ENJOYY!

Summary: Ciel, a mute by his own choice, joined his aunt's fashion company but was soon fired by Frances once Sebastian gave him an offer to work for him. Alois, his rival, was determined to bring Ciel down ever since that one argument as a child whilst Sebastian was trying a way to get the male's heart to open up to him.

A month. One full month has passed since he had walked into Sebastian's room with his mind made up.

It was filled with smiles, arguments, blushes and things that Ciel would not want to repeat in public. He was glad that those things happened in the confines of mainly Sebastian's room and his car. But all in all, that one month was rather enjoyable for the young designer.

In addition, there were many projects that came in. Some of which consisted of designing different outfits for Sebastian's new drama, a dinner suit and 'tagging' along for a photo shot. Though Sebastian and himself agreed that they would not reveal to the world that Ciel had become the raven's personal designer, Ciel had tons on his platter nonetheless.

Just as one month has passed, three out of the four short drama series had finished filming. It was scheduled to be released as an advertisement in another month's time. The filming was quick, thanks to the cooperativeness of all the crew and cast members. And Ciel was glad it turned out that way. No more could he stand that annoying and irritating redhead director.

Every single damn break, the director would launch himself onto Sebastian. Hugging, touching and things that haunted Ciel whilst he was asleep. Even thinking about it would send the male's body convoluting, or so what Ciel thought of it.

No doubt, Ciel felt uncomfortable having the redhead close to Sebastian. Maybe, just maybe, he felt that he was closer to the raven. So much closer because of the fact that he and the other had spent much time together; talking or just enjoying each other's company. Be it their personal lives, work experiences or just their thoughts at that moment in time. Enjoyable, those times were. He liked to spend time with Sebastian; alone. A nasty emotion would rear its head every time he saw the two together.

Was he jealous? Was that the feeling that he was experiencing throughout the filming? Was it?

Colour flooded the male's face as he stopped his work momentarily. What was that thought? Jealousy? Seriously?

No, it wasn't true, he told himself. He could not be jealous. Who was he to feel such a strong emotion?

Sebastian, who was occupying the same room as the young designer, noticed the sudden change of the male and looked up. "You all right, Ciel?" he asked, a frown marring his face.

I'm fine. Ciel gestured, though not relaying how fast his heart was thumping in pulse to his quickened breaths.

"Don't look that fine to me," the older male muttered, to which Ciel flashed an irritated look.

Are you telling me that I do not know my own thoughts and body well enough?

The raven took note of the look on Ciel's face as well as the way his words were displayed across. He was smart enough to back off at the very least.

"Whoa... Hold it there," he said, rising his hands as a form of surrender. "What's bothering you?" he then asked softly.

The other let his shoulders droop, as though he just sighed, and shook his head as he did so. He didn't want to bother the raven. Plus, the emotions in him needed to be sorted out first. Of course, that meant he needed some time to himself, identifying whatever feelings that came through him.

Being one that had learnt to observe people, Sebastian walked over, reached out and held the tense shoulders. He knew something was surely off with the young designer since he did not even shrug his hands off. Usually, Ciel would not welcome any physical contact.

Strange.

Slowly, he began to squeeze the slim shoulders, rotating his thumb as he did so. The muscles around that area felt stiff, seemingly stress has caused all the knots to form. The raven was determined to undo every single one of them so that Ciel would feel more relaxed. Killing two birds with one stone, wasn't it?

He was able to have some form of physical contact with Ciel and in return, Ciel would be free from those tense muscles. Sebastian knew that if he were to continue with the massage, Ciel would feel sore as a result. But that soreness was the pleasing kind of feeling. It would do the designer good.

Eyelids fluttered shut once the young male felt one knot undone. It was so comfortable. The male made a mental note to ask the other how he had acquired the wonderful skill. Ciel then felt the long fingers sliding down his back and began working on his middle back.

Unknowingly, he had relaxed under the smooth touch, sighing softly now and then. However, one particular hard press from the raven almost caused a squeak to fall from his mouth.

His azure eyes snapped open and grew wide and he tensed. No! What... How? Did Sebastian notice?

Sebastian frowned once he felt the muscles tense, and not because he heard it, and stopped his ministrations. It was obvious that something occurred a moment ago prior his knowledge but if he were to ask, would Ciel answer? Most probably not. Ciel did not bother answering those kind of questions; he would merely brush them off.

Perhaps, if he were to show his concern through his actions, Ciel would willingly accept it. Over the course of that one month, Sebastian found out some rather endearing characteristics about the younger male. One of which was the fact that the young male was more accepting towards actions than to words. Ciel had once told the raven: 'Words are cheap but actions speak more than you can guess.'

While the ash-haired male tried to force his speeding heart to slow down, Sebastian crouched down and slowly tilted the other's face. Leaning up, he pressed a kiss on the pale forehead. "Relax."

Eyes growing as wide as saucers, Ciel was frozen. What. Just. Happened? But still, that felt comforting; the way the soft lips brushed against his forehead and how Sebastian's breath fanned over his ear.

As his mind slowly caught up with reality, the designer's cheeks grew red. He could roughly get what happened but once confusion set in his mind, any coherent thoughts were being clouded.

Still crouching, the raven studied the flustered male. He reached out and touched a burning cheek, all the while smirking. Feeling Ciel's body jolt from the touch, he said, "What's wrong Ciel? Cat got your tongue?" At last, he managed to draw out a better reaction from the male; Ciel's eyes twitched.

Unexpectedly, the designer pushed his chair back, dashing out of the room. Sebastian blinked, not knowing how to react. Maybe Ciel couldn't face him after what he had just done, thought the raven, smiling to himself. Perhaps it was just the embarrassment.

But no. It wasn't just that.

With large strides down the hallway, Ciel's legs brought him further away from the room. There wasn't any destination he was heading to; just running aimlessly along the corridors. Adrenaline filled his veins, his heart beating rapidly. Yes, Sebastian's actions did cause his heart to beat faster but that was hardly anything that needed his attention.

It was more of the fear that swept through every single fiber of his body.

How? Why did that kind of reaction happen? I've trained myself not to make any noise regardless of the situation; be it pain, happiness... anything! WHY?! How come I wanted to squeak, how did Sebastian manage to... No... This can't be happening...! I'm supposed to be a mute! But... why him? How come it's him? If something like this caused me to use my vocal chords somehow... unknowingly, what else can happen next?

It had been ten years since he last used his voice. He'd heard doctors and therapists telling him that if he didn't start speaking, he might really become a mute. According to them, without the regular use of his vocal chords, they might not work in time to come due to his weakened vocal muscles. He couldn't be bothered about their warnings nor naggings. It was his choice not to speak and he would very well bear the consequences that were to follow. But what had just happened defied every single statement the specialists made. What a joke.

It'll not come naturally, instead, it will take years for you to speak fluently again... Naturally? Ha! In just a few minutes, Sebastian managed to pull out a squeak from him. Luckily, he was able to stop it before it fell out from his mouth.

Fear and worry engulfed him as he continued to run down the hallway. How could he betray himself in such a way? Oh how he hated himself then.

Stupid Ciel! Stupid! Have you forgotten? You vowed. Can't break the promise now, can you?

There was this feeling of punching something or at least wanting to let some temper out. But, he couldn't. Screaming at the top his lungs was out of his league and he didn't have the strength to really beat the crap out of something. He just had the glare of a lion but the strength of a kitten.

What was the feeling again? Oh yes, the feeling of being useless.

Tch, Ciel thought. How unlike of him to run away from the problem. Perhaps, he had even shocked the raven with his sudden 'outburst'. He should return back to work before Sebastian come after him. Heaven knows how much trouble that would be.

Over the past month, Ciel had realised that the older male cared a little too much about him. Not that he hated it. However, it did creep him out slightly. His heart beat faster when Sebastian did or said something to him and he felt glad to know that someone was watching out for him.

Huffing, the designer turned at the next corridor. With some searching and asking for directions, Ciel managed to find Sebastian's room.

"Ciel!" came the distraught voice. "Where were you? I was worried." Sebastian came up to the designer, as he walked through the door, red eyes showed his concern.

Sorry. That was uncalled for, gestured the said male. I needed some fresh air. He tried to act normal, not revealing the multitude of emotions in him.

He could hear Sebastian let loose a sigh of relief. A smile graced his lips. Seriously, that guy worries too much for his own good.

Flicking his wrist as if to brush off the occurrence, Ciel made his way back to his seat. As he walked past the model, he felt a light pat on his head, followed by a 'I'm glad you're fine.' He felt blood rushing to his cheeks but he kept his head down, not allowing the raven to see his face.

It was really unbecoming of him to act such a way! Two weeks ago, he felt really really relaxed with Sebastian around. Ciel even noticed that he was smiling more often, 'laughing' more freely and on a whole, he felt much livelier.

Sebastian had shown him a brighter side of life that was lost after his parents died. No, he did not forget that the blame was put on him for killing his parents but with the raven around, that blame somehow reduced to an insignificant amount. He felt normal with Sebastian around him. Not condemned, not judged.

That's because you haven't told him, sneered a voice in him. You have been lying to him. Didn't he tell you he hates liars? You told him that you expected the same from him. But yet, you're keeping a big secret now.

But everyone has secrets, Ciel thought. You wouldn't be who you are if you don't have any secrets. Some would be a source of motivation for you while others might very well be your downfall. And that secret of yours would cause hideous results, wouldn't it? That's why you still keep it from Sebastian.

Guilt, anger and hatred rolled off him like waves. The aura that he gave off wasn't that positive as well. The raven sensed it too but kept silent about it. Maybe that's the reason why Ciel needed fresh air, he thought.

To be honest, the model was impressed that Ciel could hold on for such a long time. Some of the other designer he had worked with called it quits within a short period of time. This current designer of his, however, was the longest lasting. The work was never-ending, this Sebastian knew, but coupled with other projects, the stress level could very well sky-rocket.

That was why the raven brought Ciel out consistently for leisure. Those trips out did give him some benefits as well. He'd managed to see that rare smile, 'hear' the amused chuckles and gain some insights on how the younger male viewed the world. Indeed, there were a few times where he was challenged by his knowledge. They had come out of nowhere and he wasn't expecting any of those questions. From there, he realised that Ciel loved mind games and especially favored winning.

Sneaking a few glances to the working male, the raven decided to bring Ciel out for another break again. With him being the 'boss', he called the shots even though he might have abused his authority. Hannah would have his head if she were to find out.

Oh bother. Who cares?

The designer was working on a new piece, one that the company required. 'Tradition' has it that every designer would have to submit a design of their own and it would be showcased at the annual dinner. It wasn't as though the deadline was approaching.

Indeed, if Sebastian were to describe Ciel regarding his work, workaholic would be the word. 'Why waste your time when you can use it for more meaningful purposes?' Ciel had said, or rather argued. Yes, this was yet another topic that sparked off a debate between the two of them. And as always, the raven considered himself as a gentleman to let Ciel win.

Not that he would tell Ciel that. He would prefer to see a pleased Ciel than to a sulking one. However, he would sometimes win the argument so as to get Ciel think deeper, gaining more perspectives.

Plus, who said he didn't love challenges?

Truth be told, some points that Ciel brought up made him do some research and self-thinking. Perhaps you could say that he didn't want to lose to Ciel in one way or another. His pride was still on the line.

Speaking of which, he had a notice of another fashion competition that Hannah informed him about. The raven knew how tough it was for Ciel to accept the defeat, and knew that Alois was to blame for some aspects. Thus, it made it hard for him to break the news to the designer. Yes, he wanted Ciel to enter and perhaps win this round but he couldn't resort to any underhand methods (much to his reluctance). Even if he couldn't do that, he had decided to be Ciel's guardian angel; silently protecting and helping the young one.

Just then, a low but loud growl echoed through the room. It came from the designer's direction. Sebastian chuckled, knowing very well what that was and he smirked once he laid eyes on the pale cheeks that had turned pink. Noting the time shown on the digital clock, the older male stood and walked over to the frozen designer.

"Let's go for lunch, shall we?"

Being one with a large pride, Ciel shook his head. I'm not hungry, he gestured. Plus, I still have to complete this.

Red irises made one round dramatically before giving Ciel the look. "Really now, Ciel? I heard your tummy growl, there's no doubt about it. Or don't tell me you don't want to admit it?" he smirked, very well challenging the other.

Narrowed eyes glared at the model. What do you mean?

"Oh, nothing much," he replied. "Since you like the desert shop not too far away, I was hoping that you would accompany me there... But it seems that it's only my wishful thinking." With that, Sebastian gave a dejected look before he turned to leave. But he felt something holding onto his shirt, refusing to let go.

A slight turn of his head revealed the younger one holding onto one end of the fabric. He was scowling. Why didn't you say so earlier? Ciel demanded. He silently cursed the raven's use of such a method to entice him into going for lunch. The look that he received did no justice in rejecting the older. The designer's materials were placed aside and he continued. All right, you caught me. But I demand something nice.

"Of course," murmured Sebastian. "Lunch first then desert." Seeing Ciel nod, he smirked. "But what are you going to give me in return?"

The blue-eyed male huffed as he stalked past the raven before turning back to gesture at the other. Nothing as of now. If you want something, you have to wait.

"Ah, right. Patience is a virtue, no?" the raven commented as he walked up to the younger. "After you." He had held the door open for Ciel, who flushed slightly at the action.

The duo exited the room and made their way to the car park. By now, Ciel had memorized where Sebastian's car was located. It was one of the few places he knew how to go by himself. He swore that the building where both of them worked in was a maze itself.

Quickly, they moved into the vehicle. The raven had a place in mind already and he knew Ciel would enjoy the place. Or so he hoped.

As the car entered the main district, cerulean eyes watched the buildings, people and vehicles pass by them. The street were bustling with life, people rushing here and there, it looked like here wouldn't be a stopping point.

Such is life, he thought. There won't be a time where you can stop and take a breather. Much more; appreciate the things around.

But life now has so much meaning to him. He no longer felt bored. It was as though his plain canvas, that represented his life, was filled with colours - blue, red, black, fuchsia, purple and much more. Colours and colours, one after another. Pretty, exciting... alive.

With a hint of smile on his face, he leaned against the back of his hand and closed his bright eyes.

Alone. Silent. Afraid. Bored.

"When do you think Mummy would come back?" asked a small voice. His body was pressed against the wall, knees drawn up, rocking. In both his hands held a stuffed rabbit.

Soon, I guess.

He nodded. "I hope so, Bitter Rabbit. I miss her. I want mummy next to me." The rocking of his body grew more obvious, faster. The moonlight that filtered through the blinds casted its glow on the petite body, causing his shadow to stretch across the bed. "Daddy is always busy so he cannot play with me... The servants are boring too."

Bitter Rabbit, a stuffed rabbit nonetheless, replied. Agreed.

The boy sighed. "Why does she have to go? She can say no to them..." he continued speaking to his dear friend.

Bitter Rabbit was a customized stuffed toy from his parents. It wore a top hat with an exquisite blue ribbon tied around it; matching the suit that it wore. White fluffy fur adorned the toy with two glossy black beads sown on its sides. The materials used were of top-notch and was made by the best craftsman. An eyepatch covered the bunny's right eye, making it all the more unique. Ciel fell in love with it right away.

His parents told him that the rabbit would replace their presence if work were to catch up with them. Ciel thought it would be fine then, since he considered the rabbit as a friend, but now, it was different.

The rabbit was his friend, yes, a very dear one. But it would never ever replace his daddy or mummy for that matter of fact. Though the two shared secrets and played together, Ciel had to admit that the stuffed toy couldn't give the warmth of a hug nor could it shower love upon him.

Perhaps you could send her a mail?

Azure eyes immediately lit up and his lips broke into a vibrant smile. "Yea!" he cried. "Mummy will definitely check her mail!"

Ciel jumped off the bed, his hand clutching onto the body of the stuffed rabbit. Padding over to his laptop, he booted it up. His light giggles filled the room when he thought about his mother's reaction to the mail and was eager to see her reply.

Connection to the Internet was quick and he was soon typing his heartfelt email with his two index fingers. It was a slow process but the words were simple but sincere, lonely yet connected.

"Send," he muttered, clicking on the button. The young boy turned to the rabbit and said jubilantly, "Now we wait!"

An insistent poking. An annoying repetitive call of his name. His endurance was growing thin and his control over his temper was being tested.

Without warning, he turned and glared at the culprit - Sebastian. What do you think you're doing? He asked, to which the raven shrugged.

"Why hello there, sleepyhead. We've reached," he informed the younger male. Grumbling silently, Ciel unbuckled himself and went out of the car. Ah, the summer's breeze. He stretched, loosening all the stiff joints he had acquired whilst asleep. Once done, he jogged up to the other and followed him to the venue for lunch.

At the back of the young designer's mind was the memory he just had which had came in a form of a dream. It did no good to him. All it reminded him was the fact that his parents were truly gone. No mail whatsoever would reach them and a reply would never be given. Also, that dream somehow nagged at his conscience - you can't hide your secret forever.

Dammit! He didn't want to reveal anything to Sebastian. But with each passing day, the feeling of guilt grew stronger. The budding relationship between him and the raven further pressed the fact that in order for all to go well, no lies should ever lay in between.

Yet again, the thought was carelessly tossed aside. His secret was safely kept by his aunts and no one, no one, would ever know about it.

After lunch and desert, which included of some small talk, they headed back to the office. Sebastian had decided to tell Ciel about the designing competition. He would rather deal with the consequences of Ciel losing than to face the music of keeping the competition from the designer.

When the car stopped in the lot and the raven turned off the engine, Ciel stopped him from exiting. The designer then leaned up, his face mere inches away from the other. The gap was small enough that if Sebastian were to move forward a little, their lips would touch. But it wasn't the older who closed the gap. Instead, Ciel did. Acting on his own accord, he pressed his lips against the other's.

Crimson eyes widened and the model momentarily froze. After the initial shock wore off, Sebastian's fingers lifted Ciel's head so that the angle was better. A hand straying to the slender waist, the black-haired male pressed the lithe body against his own.

Slowly prying the lush lips, the raven gently slipped his tongue into the hot cavern. Sweet; he could taste the desert that Ciel had earlier on. Soon, his body cried for oxygen, and so was Ciel's. Reluctantly, he pulled away. Their breathing was slightly heavy and they could stare into each other's eyes.

Glassy sapphire orbs portraying tons of emotions - some of which consisted of amazement, wonder and a much darker emotion. Sebastian knew that he was in a no better state. Signs of what the unexpected kiss did to him were showing.

On the other hand, Ciel's mind was not making any sense of what had just occurred (as always when it came to Sebastian). It felt so good, different and his lips were tingling from the sensations he'd experienced earlier. Yes, he had initiated the contact but the emotions that came after were a surprise.

"We'd better stop here," murmured the model. "Or else I wouldn't be able to hold back."

Flushing, Ciel nodded as he knew he was feeling no better than the other. As he resumed the distance they once had before it happened, silence dominated the area. Unable to stand it any longer, the young designer gestured, Thanks for the meal. I enjoyed it.

He, unexpectedly, received a bright smile from the raven. If he were a girl, he was sure that he would melt on the spot. The smile was blinding and imaginary sparkles appeared as the aura around the male. But at the same time, Ciel realised that that smile wasn't a fake one, neither was it forced. Instead, it was pure, from-the-heart kind of smile that gradually warmed his heart. This was the first time he'd seen the raven smile and he decided that Sebastian looked all the more better with it.

I like it.

A beep from the clock informed Ciel that it was already three. Vaguely, he wondered how much time he'd spent with Sebastian outside. Remembering the pile of work to be completed back in the office, the young designer began to clamber out of the vehicle. However, he was stopped by Sebastian who caught hold of his hand. He muttered, "Wait..."

Ciel gave a questioning look to the raven when he turned around. A shiver ran down his spine when he noticed the serious gaze he received from the older male. He knew that when Sebastian was serious, it would mean that something had ticked him off or he had to be a deliverer of bad news. And Ciel knew that when Sebastian was serious, boy was he serious all right. Things would be done so quickly yet perfectly that one would deem it as impossible.

The words the blue-eyed male wanted to 'say' were trapped in him, he couldn't even have his hands gesture them. Every sign eluded him at that point. But still, Sebastian knew that Ciel was confused.

"I have something to tell you," the raven then began. When the designer was ready with his attention solely focusing on him, Sebastian continued, "Recently, I've received a notice. It's somewhat a competition." He paused and eyed the designer. There was no indication whether Ciel was angry or he had even heard those words. Nevertheless, the model decided that it was safe to continue.

A month has taught the raven-haired male many things about the younger male. The model could now pick up some of the signs that showed Ciel not in his best of moods. He'd learnt that quite a number of things would tick the designer off and some of the ways to avoid those things. But he knew more than Ciel revealed to him. With the help of Hannah, he'd gotten his hands on Ciel's resume. Interestingly, Ciel had written in his resume his health conditions that made the raven take notice of. From what the red-eyed male gathered, it was his 'mother' who had forced him to put it there. He could imagine the look of disdain on Ciel's face at that point in time.

Anyway, back to the main subject, Sebastian continued, "The competition basically comprises three stages. The first would be a designing stage, where competitors are required to put together a portfolio of designs - five will be expected. A theme will be given once the submission of names closes. Thus, the works in the portfolio would have to revolve around that theme. The second would be a showcase to your manufacturing abilities. I don't really know the details, but I reckon it would be similar to your previous competition..." he trailed off once realising that he'd said something he shouldn't touch on. He muttered an apology.

But as they say, surprises come when you least expect it. Ciel nodded at the other, as though telling the raven that it was fine and it didn't bother him. The sapphire eyes were clear but deep down, the black-haired model knew that the younger male was still affected by it.

Forcing the young one to look at him by tilting his chin up, the raven said sincerely, "I'm not forcing you to go for it, Ciel. You can turn down this competition."

But what the designer did made his heart swell.

The azure eyes were bright and clear, showing the determination of their owner had. His chin was set firmly and there was a hint of playfulness. Well? You were saying?

"You mean..."

You stopped after speaking about that taboo competition. You've yet to tell me what's the third stage. If you must know, I'm somewhat interested in joining this event... Might as well give me all the details before letting me decide once I get the full picture, yes?

For the first time, Ciel heard Sebastian stutter. "W-well..." But he quickly regained his composure. "If you say so..." He cleared his throat once, probably to rid himself from the embarrassment. "As I was saying, stage two would most probably be similar to the previous competition you've participated in." Finally, they were able to broach the subject without having to feel uncomfortable about it. "And as far as I know, the third - what's with that smile? Stop grinning at me like that!"

Indeed, there was a large grin on the designer's face. The amusement was clear in his eyes. It was so obvious, so bright that even if it was the first time Ciel was smiling, it wasn't a good sign at all.

"Stop that, Ciel," the raven requested.

The ash-tainted hair male shook his head playfully. No, why should I? I mean, look! I've finally heard and seen you trip over a word!

"Sorry then," replied the other sarcastically. "I wasn't expecting you to handle the situation so calmly."

The younger male managed to catch what the model was hinting. He thought of a quick retort and rebutted. Well, sorry to burst your bubble. I'm not as weak as you think I am.

"I never said you were weak!" protested Sebastian. "You're just sensitive."

Ciel blushed, looking away. He didn't know what to do or 'say'. Though glad that the raven discovered more about his personality, the designer was worried about his dark secret.

"Ciel," called the older male. "perhaps we could leave this for another time? You can sleep on it before I tell you the rest of the details."

Stubbornly, he shook his head. I'm not weak... I'm not fragile. So don't worry. It was as though he was comforting himself more so than to give a peace of mind to Sebastian. The sentence did little to convince the raven that Ciel was fine but he knew better than to voice his doubts. Then, he received a smile from the ash-haired male. Go on, don't get my interest peaked and leave me hanging. I want to know what's stage three.

"Mm..." the model hummed, a smirk playing around the corners of his lips. "I wish you were requesting about more... desirable activities." When Ciel smacked him on his arm, he grinned. "I know, I know. So, as I was saying, stage one is a portfolio, stage two is to manufacture and the third is to parade your designs. But instead of your usual panel of judges, it would consist your ordinary day-to-day folks. Of course there will be professionals present. So you don't have to worry about the judging. Also, there will be bosses of different brands who would offer a price for your designs that will be sold at their stores."

Interesting. motioned the male. Already, adrenaline was pumping in his veins and the gears in his mind were turning. It was quite clear to Ciel himself that he was considering to participate in this event with his attention very much drawn. This competition was different, he could felt. Unlike the others, this particular one integrated the usual job of a designer where one has to scout for materials, submit proposals before the product was made. He liked how the forthcoming competition would be held.

The raven went on saying, "Models will be provided by the organisers, so you don't have to worry about how it would go actually. This is their... fifth time holding such a competition. The rules are quite tight; there shouldn't be any cheating whatsoever."

Ciel could see it. It was plain obvious to him and he quite liked the feeling. A smile broke across his features, his eyes crinkling up with amusement and joy. Soon, his shoulders shook with mirth. Warmly quickly spread throughout his body, leaving an odd tingling sensation.

This guy seriously worries too much about me.

You're funny, Sebastian. Quite cute in a way. I'm not that weak, so you don't have to worry that much.

When the designer looked up to take a glance at the raven, he grew concerned. The older male was frozen to his spot, not blinking, and barely breathing.

Sebastian...? Are you all right? Ciel moved his hand up and down, right in front of those widened eyes. It wasn't worry or fear that flooded the handsome features. The younger male realised that it was more of awe and wonder. As he saw some emotions flashing through those eyes, he quickly moved hs hand again. Sebastian...

Then, he heard it.

A low rumble that came deep from the raven's chest caused him to frown slightly. It was between a chuckle and a growl, which confused Ciel thoroughly. However, the smirk that appeared on the model's face confirmed that it was a chuckle.

Without any warning, the raven grabbed Ciel's hand and brought it to his lips. "Mmm... I was captured by your smile, mon cherie. And touched by your concern." Though Sebastian's head was bowed so as to kiss the back of the younger man's hand, the model managed to hold the gaze of the azure orbs.

He delighted in the way how blood quickly flowed to he younger's cheeks and how Ciel pulled his hand back, flustered. "You are the cute one, Ciel," he commented, his smirk firmly planted on his face. Every single possible sign told the young designer that Sebastian was teasing him. But at the same time, he was conveying his feelings for the cerulean-eyed male.

Actually, other than establishing a model-designer type of relationship, the two males had moved on to a deeper and more personal level. No, one couldn't really say that they were in a relationship. Instead, it would be better say that both males decided to take things slow. The pace was comfortable; Sebastian didn't mind it and Ciel was fine with the speed at which they were moving at.

With a hint of a pout, Ciel stared his lap. Though it was a surprise to hear the raven to speak some French, the younger male relished in the timber of Sebastian's was of a smooth texture, enhanced with its depth. How nice it would be to have that deep voice whispering sweet nothings in his ea- what the heck was that?!

Thoroughly uncomfortable, the designer fidgeted in his seat. Yes, he want to leave the vehicle and head up to his desk area. That was where he was able to think clearly and get the most of husband work done. It was somewhat like his second peace sanctuary, his house being the first.

"Hey," murmured the raven. "I'll tell Hannah The you need more time to make your decision, all right?" Seeing a nod coming from the younger male, Sebastian clucked. "Okay then, let's g-"

He was interrupted by the ringing of his phone. An apology was given before the call was answered. Unlike the gable expression shown to Ciel, the other's eyes were colder and lips set in a thin line. The younger one deduced that the person on the line didn't have a good rapport on the raven. Harsh and curt replies were given, and a scowl flirted across the beautifully structured face.

"Fine," the raven snapped. "I'll be there." With that, he cut off the call. "Damn manager," hissed Sebastian. The tone wasn't gentle; it wasn't what Ciel expected it to be.

What's wrong? asked the designer. He could tell that Sebastian was very annoyed with the call. And from what he could gather, the caller was his manager. Thinking back, Ciel didn't really see the raven's manager. Whenever he went for an assignment, to Ciel's knowledge, the manager wasn't there. He'd probed, asking why Sebastian did not have his manager around, unlike the other celebrities. The reply Hannah gave him was not expected. Nothing screamed of Sebastian not getting along with people. The raven was so calm and collected, never showing his worse side to anyone. Thus, the answer Ciel received was shocking.

"You see," Hannah had said. "Sebastian's manager, William T. Spears, demands perfection. He tolerates no mess nor sloppiness in work and attitude. Though I know that there is a rift between them, Will can get the job well done. He just can't stand the way Sebastian treats his work and the behavior in which he portrays." When Ciel questioned about the so-called problems of Sebastian's behavior, the platinum-haired lady replied, "You would have come to know that Sebastian loves to play around the loopholes of the system. Can't really fault him for that though. That was how he was brought up but Will can't sympathize with that. The feeling's mutual alright. Sebastian can't get along with Will either.

"Strange enough, their work is simply tip-top. It's professional, as expected from them. They work together with ease but outside of work..." She ended by shaking her head. By then, Ciel already had gotten a clear picture about those two.

"Will wants me to turn up at an interview. Told the guy I wasn't going to some magazine interview if they're going to write nothing but gossip about me," the raven spat. "Do you want to come along?"

The designer shook his head. Not today. I'd rather not have gossip about me, or for the both of us.

Sebastian sighed in resignation. "All right, I suppose you're right. I'll see you later then."

Nodding, the young male left the vehicle. After that, he gave a small awkward wave to his companion before heading into the sophisticated building. When Sebastian watched the figure diminished and went out of sight, he started the gear and drove off.

This had better be fruitful.

Evening came quickly enough and within that period, Ciel completed three designs and one prototype. Overall, he was pleased at his progress.

Today, he concluded, was a rather pleasant one. He had received a couple of opportunities to shine. The competition in which Sebastian told him about and his designs were added to the company's fall collection. That meant he had a very good chance of having his designs paraded before fashion critics.

If there was any way for a designer to shoot to fame, it was through such parading. People said that such a debut would either let you make it or break it. Ciel was excited, eagerly waiting for the dates to be confirmed. The younger male was like a child waiting to receive his favourite candy.

Finally... I finally managed to get to this stage. I won't fail.

Convinced that he would do his upmost best, the designer called it a day. He'd received a text from Sebastian stating that the model would be meeting him at their usual desert shop. It has come to a time where Ciel took their outings as a norm. Since they were colleagues, it wouldn't hurt to go out together regularly, right?

Those thoughts were cast aside; he barely regarded them of any importance. He was sure that those trips weren't dates. Or was it just not the time to stay that they were officially dating?

Yes, they had shared quite a number of intimate moments together but never crossing the line. But he was sure that out of the many times, Sebastian did hint something that's related to being a couple.

At the thought of that, Ciel stopped in his tracks and blushed. Really? He wasn't an expert in those kind of things. Heck! He didn't even know how couples were suppose to act when they're together.

Movies and television shows decreed that one must show his love for his partner and vice versa. Ciel had never bothered with romance, be it in shows, books or films; all his knowledge came from the chattering girls from school.

So, the only question he had was: 'What were they as of now?'

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