Chapter Text
I've been walking around for a while now, searching for Fenian. No one's seen him, and every room I check is empty. I sigh, growing tired—and a little worried. Where was the little rascal?
He couldn't be outside. He's not allowed. Not with his health—and not with how useless medicine is in this era. His asthma's bad. Scary bad. I got shots as a child before coming here, back when I still had access to decent healthcare, but Fenian?
If I could bring him to the future, he'd be okay. Thriving, even.
I hesitate before pushing open the back doors, heart heavy. Please don't let him be out here.
I step into the yard. The cold wind brushes my cheeks—sharper than usual.
My stomach clenches.
I debate calling his name, but doubt he'll come out, even for me. I know how much he wants to play out here. I want it more than anything too.
Biting my lip, I scan the bushes and trees.
Nothing.
Even Vincent said he hadn't seen his son when I asked earlier. Not that his parents pay attention to him much—that's what I'm here for apparently.
I finally cup my hands around my mouth. "Fenian!" I shout, hoping the wind carries it far enough.
Still nothing.
"Fenian! Please come out," I call again, spinning in place. "I promise not to yell at you!"
Minutes drag by. No sign of him. Maybe…he was never out here to begin with?
Just as I start heading back to the mansion, I hear it:
"Rina!"
I spin around. Fenian stands by a bush a ways off, hugging his arm, eyes glued to the ground. Relief surges through me as I jog over. He kicks at the grass, avoiding my gaze.
Smiling despite the twist of anxiety still lingering, I kneel to his level. "There you are. You made me worried, sport."
He keeps his eyes low. "Sorry…" he mumbles.
I reach out and gently take his small hands in mine. "It's alright, Fenian. I understand."
He flicks his eyes up at me, just for a second, then slips his hands free. They fall to his sides, fists clenching.
"How could you?" he snaps, voice shaking. "You can go outside whenever you want! I'm always stuck inside. I just have to watch everyone have fun!"
His words hit hard. I sigh, already knowing he felt this way. Still, hearing it aloud…
"Hey now, Fenian, look at me," I coax gently. He shakes his head, and I catch a glimpse of tears clinging to the corners of his eyes.
"Fenian. Look at me," I repeat—firmer this time.
Still no response.
I gently take his chin and tilt his face toward mine. "Look. At. Me," I say, slow and steady. "Deep breaths, kid. One. Inhale. Two. Exhale."
I demonstrate the rhythm with my own chest. He mimics me, uneven at first, but then steadier. I see the tension ease in his shoulders.
"There we go." I say softly, squeezing his arms. I meet his gaze. "Were you scared to come out here alone?"
He stiffens. His eyes waver. Then, finally, he nods—just once.
"I was…" His voice breaks. "I was afraid, but I made myself come out here. Because I wanted to. I'm really weak, sis…"
Tears spill freely now. His face crumples, overwhelmed.
I don't answer right away. Just wipe at his cheeks with my sleeve, heart aching.
"Have you always felt like this?" I ask gently.
He nods again. Tight. Silent.
"You know what I think?" I say after a moment.
His teary gaze flicks up.
"Facing our fears—that's what makes us strong."
He stares at me. Silent. Then, slowly, his expression shifts. Realization creeps in. Awe.
"Sis, you're really smart." he murmurs, voice small but sincere.
The breeze catches his hair, pushing it gently back from his face. I flush at his adorableness and pull him into a quick hug.
"You're pretty smart too, kid." I chuckle as he hugs me back.
We laugh together. I get an idea.
"Say…since we're out here…" I pause for effect. "Wanna do something fun?"
His eyes light up. He starts bouncing. "You're going to let me play outside?!"
"Just for a minute," I warn, wagging a finger. "Don't want you getting sick."
He practically dances in place. "I promise I won't!"
I snort. "You can't promise something like that."
Standing with a groan, I stretch until my joints crack. "Alright. Arms out."
He blinks at me but obeys, holding his arms straight.
"Sis, what game are we going to play?"
"Not a game exactly—but it's fun. Ready to fly?" I grin, grabbing both his wrists.
His eyes go wide. "What do you—"
I spin in a circle, lifting him off the ground. His shriek echoes through the yard. "Ahhh! Sis?!"
I laugh as he finally lets out a real one too—screaming and giggling all at once.
"Let me know if you start breathing hard, Fenian!" I shout through our whirlwind.
We spin for what feels like forever, until I'm dizzy and breathless. We collapse onto the grass, giggling as the world tilts around us.
A small figure approaches from the distance. I rub my eyes and focus—
Ciel.
He reaches us just as we sit up.
"Hi, Ciel." I greet, still catching my breath.
"What is Fenian doing out here?" he asks, brow furrowing.
I clear my throat. "Er, I found him out here."
He squints. "And why aren't you inside yet?"
"I thought your brother deserved to be out here for a bit." I answer, voice steady.
Ciel exhales, his expression softening. "Feni, did you have fun?"
Fenian beams. "Yeah! Sis made me fly."
I sweatdrop at the phrasing. Ciel gives me a confused look.
"Wanna try?" I offer, already standing.
Ciel eyes me like I've lost it. "Not sure if I want to get hurt."
I grab his wrists anyway. "Wuss." I tease, sticking out my tongue.
His face flames red. "Am not! Take that back!"
I laugh and start spinning him around. "Wahhhh!" he cries, hair flying everywhere.
Fenian howls with laughter, cheering us on.
When I stop, Ciel is gasping. "Sis, I hate you." he grumbles, swatting at his wild hair.
"No, you don't," I shoot back, grinning. "Shall we go inside?"
They both nod and run to my sides, grabbing my hands. I swing our arms back and forth as we head in. The walk is short, but none of us mind.
"Father talked to me today." Ciel says suddenly. His tone is serious. Fenian perks up beside him.
"He said he was going to begin assigning tutors to Fenian and me."
I blink, surprised. "That sucks. You guys are gonna have less free time."
Both boys pout.
"So we won't see you anymore?" they ask in unison.
I raise my brows. "Well…more like not as often."
They scowl slightly as we reach the stairs. I hold the door for them, and they head inside.
"I'll see you guys soon. I'm going to take a short nap before dinner service starts." I say, waving as we part ways.
Once I'm alone, I head upstairs, exhausted. I barely slept last night. I had a strange dream…
A figure cloaked in black. Glowing red eyes burning through the dark.
He didn't speak. Didn't hurt me. Didn't even seem to notice I was there. Just…passed by, like I was no one.
I'd woken up drenched in sweat, neck tingling like it had been touched.
I sigh and round a corner—only to walk straight into someone.
"Ow—ah, sorry!" I blurt, holding my nose.
A deep chuckle answers me. "It's quite alright, Rina."
I look up, recognizing the voice. "Oh, it's just you."
"Just me?" Vincent smirks. "Now I feel unimportant."
I fumble for a reply, but he waves it off. "Kidding."
I laugh awkwardly, rubbing the back of my neck. "Of course."
"Where are you headed?" he asks.
I yawn. "To take a nap."
He eyes my face with concern. "Not sleeping well?"
I shake my head. "I had a weird dream last night. Woke me up."
"Ah, I see." He nods. "Before I let you go—I have something to discuss with you."
Curious, I pause. "What is it?"
"I've hired tutors for the boys."
"Ciel mentioned that. A bit sudden."
He nods. "They'll begin next week. Just wanted to give you a heads up—so you can adjust your schedule."
"Thanks, Vincent. I appreciate it."
He offers a small smile. "One more thing—there's a party in London I must attend. I'll be taking the boys. I was hoping you'd accompany us. I don't trust them not to cause trouble."
Surprised, I smile. "I wouldn't mind."
"Thank you, Rina. I'll make it up to you."
I shake my head. "Vincent, you've done more than enough for me already."
His hand lands gently on my shoulder. He gives it a squeeze, warm and sincere. "I'll let you know the date. Now go get that nap."
He walks off, and I press a hand to the spot where his rested.
Back in my room, I shut the door behind me, unlace my corset, and fling it across the room like it's cursed. The damn thing nearly strangles me every day.
I crawl into bed, sighing into the pillow.
Sleep swallows me whole.
0o0o0o0o
I end up taking a two-hour power nap—and honestly, I feel a lot better. No creepy dreams this time, which is definitely a win. I make my way to the other side of the mansion to check on the boys and help get them ready for dinner if they need it.
I stop at Ciel's room first and knock. No answer.
Pushing the door open slowly, I peek inside. The room is dim, calm. My eyes land on Ciel lying on the bed, fast asleep. A soft smile creeps onto my face. God, I wish I had a camera. These kids were always adorable—but like this? Too much. I tiptoe over and sit gently at the edge of his bed.
I reach out and brush a few stray hairs from his closed eyes. His lashes flutter.
"Mother..." he murmurs, barely conscious.
"Wrong. It's Rina." I whisper back with a small laugh.
He groans and cracks a sleepy smile—althought hesitant. "Oh, sorry."
I wait while he wakes up a bit more. Eventually, he sits up with a yawn.
"Copied what I was planning on, huh?"
He blushes lightly. "Maybe."
"Well, you look decent enough." I run my fingers through his hair to fix the worst of the bedhead. "Go get some dinner."
He gives me a grateful smile as he shuffles toward the door. I follow, gently closing it behind us.
Next stop: the other gremlin. I turn the knob on Fenian's door.
"Fenian!" I shout, throwing the door open dramatically.
He jumps and spins around from his book. "Sis! You scared me!"
Laughing with a victorious smirk, I stride in. "That was the point."
He pouts at me with a weak glare. I plop down beside him on the bed.
"What are you reading?"
"An old children's book." he says, holding up the cover.
"Oh, I remember reading that to you guys." I say fondly, squinting at the artwork.
He nods. "Yeah. Do you have a favorite book?"
I hum in thought, scrolling through mental shelves. "When it comes to children's books, I'd have to say Peter Pan. But if we're talking about an all-time favorite? Definitely the Harry Potter series."
He tilts his head. "I've never heard of those."
Chuckling, I gently pluck the book from his hands, slip a bookmark in, and set it behind us. Standing up, I nod toward the hallway. He follows.
"Ah, you probably won't ever get the chance to read them. A shame, really."
"Why not?" he frowns.
"They're...lost, I guess you could say."
He hums thoughtfully.
"Doesn't mean I can't tell you what they're about sometimes."
He lights up. "Please do!"
I laugh as we make our way downstairs to the dining room. When we reach the doors, I push one open for him.
He enters with a small smile.
I pause at the threshold. I wish I could eat with them, just once. That's one part of this world I've always had to sit out. Sighing, I slip away toward the kitchen to grab something for myself.
Today's been a rollercoaster.
0o0o0o0o0o
One week later...
I straighten the boys' outfits, grinning. "You two are heartbreakers already." I pinch both their cheeks playfully.
Ciel scowls and bats my hand away. "Sis!" he whines.
I giggle. "Bet you're gonna get lots of attention from the ladies tonight."
"I already have a fiancée." Ciel says proudly, though his face turns a little pink.
I gag. "People shouldn't marry their family," I mutter. "Besides, you're way too young for all that. I told your father so!"
"If Father says so, then I have no choice." he replies gloomily.
I blink. Wow. That's...depressing. "Well, if I have anything to say about it, you should enjoy being a kid while you still can."
I rise from my crouch, my back popping with the movement.
Turning to Fenian, I notice he's gone quiet. "Fenian? Are you good?"
His big eyes peek up at me. "Just a little nervous."
I offer a warm smile. "It'll be just like the parties your parents host—only somewhere else." He nods, though he still looks unsure. "Hey. You've got me, your brother, even your father. We'll all be right there with you."
That seems to calm him a bit. He flashes a small, shy smile.
"Alright, kiddos. Ready?" I hold out both hands.
They each grab one, and we head out. Vincent waits for us by the front door, and we all climb into the carriage. The sky outside glows with sunset, colors melting together in a soft ombré.
Fenian sits beside me, Ciel next to his father.
Ten minutes pass in silence before I can't stand it anymore.
"Why haven't smartphones been invented yet?" I groan, slouching dramatically. "I'd sell my soul for a phone right now."
Vincent raises a brow. "Sell your soul…?"
Fenian blinks. "What's that, sis?"
I sigh longingly. "Something that makes this ride more entertaining."
"Oh." He thinks for a moment. "Can I have one?"
I snort. "You're too young. And also—they don't exist yet."
Vincent chuckles, and Ciel seems lost in thought. I glance down at my clean maid uniform, freshly ironed for this event. "Say, Vincent...What's this party even for?"
He smirks. "Mainly business."
"And it's okay to bring your sons because…?" I shoot him a look.
He stares out the window. "It's nothing formal. Just a chance for them to meet a few people."
I roll my eyes. "Whatever you say, boss."
Yawning, I try to get comfy.
Suddenly, Fenian shifts beside me and tugs my sleeve.
"C-Can I lay in your lap, Rina?" he asks shyly, not meeting my gaze.
I melt. "Of course, cutie!" I pull him into my lap, where he curls up contentedly under my chin.
"You guys are getting bigger. Not fair." I pout.
He giggles, and even Vincent joins in. "I agree." he says, glancing at Ciel.
"I'll be as tall as you, Father!" Ciel proclaims.
I fake a sniffle. "I'll cry the day you all pass my height."
Fenian rests a small hand on my cheek. "Yeah, but once we're older, we can protect you, sis!"
Blushing, I spot Ciel nodding in agreement. I cough, flustered. "Thanks, you two. But it's still my job to protect you."
Their smiles say everything. I lean back, heart full.
This life might be strange, but it's starting to feel like mine.
0o0o0o0o0o
It takes about an hour to reach London. When we finally arrive, Tanaka opens the carriage door with a respectful nod. I'm the last one out—he offers a hand to help me, which I accept gratefully.
Vincent and the boys are already striding toward the building.
"W-Wait for me!" I huff, gathering my skirt and jogging after them. Catching up at the doors, I glare at Vincent. "Y-You...you could've waited."
He smirks. "I knew you'd catch up."
I suppress the urge to throttle him. Not the place. Everyone around us is dressed like royalty, mingling with wine glasses in hand. I feel...underdressed. My maid uniform is neat but plain.
The women here glitter in silks and jewels, clinging to their husbands—or so I assume.
"Why didn't Rach—er, milady—come, my lord?" I ask, stumbling over the correction.
"She said she didn't want to." Vincent replies casually.
I fall silent. Nothing else to say to that.
Scanning the room, I spot mostly men—and not bad-looking ones, either. At least the view isn't terrible. And that dessert table? I will be partaking in that chocolate cake later.
Ciel and Fenian chat happily. I can tell Ciel's trying to keep his brother distracted from the crowd. I smile, turning to the nearby window. Through the glass, I see the night sky stretching above the city.
Stars shimmer quietly, undisturbed.
A memory rises—watching a lunar eclipse with my mom and a telescope, staying up way too late. She said the stars reminded her of her father. I barely remember my grandpa. He died when I was really little.
What's she doing now? Does she wonder where I am?
Vincent notices I've drifted from his side and joins me at the window.
"Is something wrong, Rina?"
I shake my head slowly. "Not at all. Just looking at the stars, I suppose."
"They are beautiful, indeed."
Before I can say anything more, laughter erupts behind us.
Suddenly, Fenian dives behind my skirt with a grin, squishing himself between me and the window.
"I'm gonna get you!" Ciel's voice rings out.
I scoop Fenian up with a laugh. "Ah, ah. Try getting him now, Ciel—er, young master!"
"That's not fair!" Ciel pouts, reaching for his brother.
I grin and hold Fenian just out of reach. "It's not if the person wasn't playing to begin with."
Vincent chuckles nearby, and I finally set Fenian down.
He coughs lightly, and I frown. "You okay?"
"Mhm." he nods with a small smile.
I ruffle his hair. "Let me know if you start feeling bad, okay?"
"I will."
Vincent leaves to speak with someone, and I hang back with the boys. Ciel stands beside me, clearly bored. Fenian peeks out from behind my legs again. I feel a few women's eyes on me—judging. I bite my tongue.
Vincent returns, annoyed. "That man was a waste of time."
"That's rude." I tease.
"It's not rude if they can't hear it."
"Touche."
Then, two men approach. One older, one rounder. The round one—Kelvin—stares at us too long. My gut twists.
The older man steps forward. "Allow me to introduce Baron Kelvin."
"P-Pleased to meet you." Kelvin stammers, holding out his hand.
The way he looks at Vincent...I don't like it.
Vincent keeps polite, shaking his hand. "Pleased to meet you."
Even so, I can tell he's not thrilled.
I feel Fenian tug my skirt again. I pat his head to reassure him. Vincent does the same for Ciel. "Go on, you introduce yourself first."
"Right!" Ciel says brightly. "Pleased to meet you, Lord Kelvin. I'm Ciel."
Did...Did Kelvin just blush? Oh no. My stomach drops.
Then his eyes slide down—straight to Fenian peeking from behind me. I quickly nudge Fenian back, feeling his tiny fingers cling to my skirt.
"I'm sorry, he's shy with strangers," Vincent says. "His health is fragile, so I rarely bring him places."
Suddenly, Ciel points and exclaims, "Oh, it's Uncle Chlaus!"
I follow his gaze and smile. That guy I can tolerate.
Chlaus beams, arms wide. "Oh, Ciel! Guten tag! Good to see you again."
Ciel runs to him and practically leaps into his arms.
Vincent lights up. "Chlaus! You're back?"
We all make our way toward him, Fenian squeezing my hand tight. I toss a subtle glare Kelvin's way before I go. He shrinks under it.
Good.
Chlaus sets Ciel down, spotting Fenian behind me. "How are you, Fenian?"
Fenian inches forward. "I'm okay." he mumbles shyly.
God, this kid. I've never met one so bashful. It's adorable—but I hope Vincent starts letting him attend more things like this. He needs the practice.
As the men start chatting, I quickly grow bored. Should've brought a book...
Wait. The food!
Grinning, I announce, "I'm going to grab some dessert."
I doubt anyone hears me. I'm already walking off—on a mission for chocolate cake.
"Wait! Sis!" two voices call out in unison behind me.
I halt mid-step and glance back as the boys skid to a stop at my sides.
"What?" I ask, raising an eyebrow.
"We want food too!" Ciel exclaims, eyes locked hungrily on the dessert table behind me.
I smirk and grab their hands, dragging them along like little ducklings. "Come on then."
As soon as we reach the table, I swipe a plate of chocolate cake and a fork, claiming it like a dragon with treasure. The boys immediately follow suit, both reaching for slices of their own.
"Don't make a mess, please." I warn, side-eying them while I take a bite.
They nod in unison and begin eating quietly. The cake is...fine. Not the worst I've ever had, but far from heavenly. I shrug and glance down at the boys—they're distracted, scanning the crowd as they chew, expressions slowly shifting to unease.
The room is definitely getting too crowded. Too many voices, too many stares.
"Oh yeah," I remember, lowering my voice as I glance around for him, "guys, stay away from the round dude we just met."
"Why?" Ciel asks, cheeks full of cake.
I sweat drop. Manners, my child. Though, he probably gets that from me.
"He's creepy, that's why." I answer plainly.
Fenian has chocolate smeared near his mouth as he chimes in, "I didn't like him much either."
I nod in agreement, finishing my last bite and placing my plate back on the table.
The boys follow suit, setting their plates near mine. I grab a napkin and crouch down, dabbing the smudges of chocolate from their mouths.
"Really, guys. I said not to make a mess." I scold gently, narrowing my eyes.
They smile like innocent angels. "Whoops." they chorus.
I shake my head, trying not to laugh—it doesn't take long to wipe them clean.
Once we're done, we return to where Vincent and Chlaus are still chatting away.
Fenian hides behind his father's legs this time, and Ciel stays close at my side. The rest of the evening drags on, a blur of introductions and meaningless small talk. People keep approaching Vincent—some men, some women—and all of them act like he's royalty.
Okay, technically he is, but still.
My legs begin to ache from standing too long. It reminds me of that one middle school honor roll ceremony—waiting forever while they called a hundred names. At least now, I get to study whatever I want.
The mansion library is huge, and no tests? Heaven.
I consider sitting on the floor just to rest my poor feet, but that would apparently be "improper." So I sigh. Loudly.
Fenian looks up at me, puzzled. I offer a small smile, and he hugs Vincent's leg a little tighter. I glance around the room, watching as women sweep by with champagne flutes and condescending eyes. I don't bother approaching them—they know I'm staff based on the uniform alone.
One of Vincent's conversations finally ends, and the man he was talking to walks away, all pleased with himself.
"Vin—My Lordddd." I drawl, dragging myself over dramatically.
Vincent turns, eyebrow raised. "What is it?"
I stare up at him with fake watery eyes. "I'm sooo bored."
He sighs through a cheerful grimace. "I never said it would be fun. Please bear through it."
"There must be something."
"Stop acting like a child." he scolds, rolling his eyes.
I pout, crossing my arms and stomping once. "I'm not."
"Right." he says dryly, clearly unimpressed.
I glance around with exaggerated wistfulness. "If only I weren't a servant. I bet some guy would be chatting me up right now."
Vincent laughs. "I'd feel bad for the gentleman."
I gasp. "What's that supposed to mean?!" My voice pitches higher than intended.
He winces. "I rest my case."
I feel my cheeks burn, embarrassment and fury mingling like soda and Mentos. "Why you little—!"
"Now, now, no need for vulgar language," Vincent interrupts calmly, lips twitching with a concealed smirk. "You are a lady, after all."
Through gritted teeth, I glare daggers at him. "I. Hate. You."
He smiles innocently, saying nothing more.
A small tug on my sleeve shifts my attention. Fenian's looking up at me with a pouty expression.
"What's wrong?" I ask, my temper dissolving instantly.
"You don't like Father?" he mumbles, voice small.
My heart aches a little. "No, I do," I reassure him with a smile. "He's just a pain sometimes."
Fenian's lips form a little "oh," and he nods as if he understands.
0o0o0o0o0o
The rest of the night passes in a blur. We're there for nearly four hours, and by the end of it, I'm running on fumes. When we finally make it out and into the carriage, I let out a long, dramatic groan. My legs are jelly. Sitting down has never felt more divine.
The boys climb in after me and settle snugly against my sides. Vincent enters last, sitting where he had on the way in.
Both boys yawn and press closer to me, eyes already fluttering shut.
I stroke their hair gently, a soft smile tugging at my lips. They're out like lights within minutes.
And before long, so am I—lulled to sleep by the warmth of their trust and the quiet hum of the wheels.
Despite the time period, despite the roles we're forced into…
I dream of us.
A little, strange, happy family.