The Crimson Feather (3/12)

[london9calling]

Part [1] [2]

Minseok found sleep to be elusive. The twins woke up several times during the night crying, still asking for their mother, unsure of their new surroundings. When Minseok found a few hours of sleep around dawn, the twins finally falling asleep, he drifted off so deeply nothing could wake him. Which was exactly what Luhan wanted.

“Two little ones?” Lisbeth cooed, a huge smile on her face as she peered towards the stairs.

“Yes. Though please don’t tell my parents, not yet. And D’Adderleigh, he may say something harsh but please forgive him. The shock, well, he is saying things he doesn’t mean.” Luhan wanted to warn the nanny first lest Minseok berate her. Luhan was hoping that would not be the case, though judging by the vile words Minseok spewed the day prior he was not so sure his husband would hold his tongue.

Luhan had taken a huge risk by asking the nanny to come over to meet the children. He knew that Minseok was fighting the idea and Minseok’s words – that they were HIS children – still tore at Luhan’s heart. Luhan tried to tell himself multiple times since Minseok had uttered such words which he didn’t really mean it, he was tired, emotional – upset. Still, they hurt, more than Luhan cared to admit.

Lisbeth walked slowly up the stairs, Luhan behind her. “Their room is the second on the left.” Luhan explained. When they were in front of the door, Luhan twisted the knob slowly, afraid he would wake up Minseok.

Minseok was sleeping on the floor, a blanket thrown over him, his mouth wide open as he snored loudly. The children, however, were very much awake and presently engaged in pushing each other, giggling. They stopped playing when they noticed the door was open, both staring at the door, curious.

Luhan waved at the children. Thankfully they were starting to feel at least a bit more comfortable with him, evidenced by the way they toddled forward and out the door. Luhan shut the door behind them, grateful Minseok was not awake to fight him on the matter.

“Look at you two beautiful creatures!” Lisbeth smiled brightly. The children did not seem to fear her, not at all. “Who wants a new toy?”

Both children raised their hands up towards the ceiling, Lisbeth chuckling. “Well then let us go see this new toy, shall we?” She picked Lilly up without the girl fussing, Luhan felt an enormous amount of vindication; a person that understood child rearing could handle the children much better than he could. Theo willingly let Luhan hoist him up. Soon they were seated in the morning room, Lisbeth playing and speaking with the children as only an expert nanny could.

***

Minseok woke up with a start, panic setting in as he realized the room was empty. Where had the children gone? He stood up quickly, rushing towards the door -  only to have to move to avoid it hitting his face as it was opened from the other side. Luhan walked in, showing his own measure of surprise at seeing Minseok awake.

“Where are the children?! Are they well?” Minseok asked, his face flush.

“They are fine.” Luhan shut the door, making sure to stand in front of the exit, effectively trapping Minseok inside. “Lisbeth is with them.”

“What?” Minseok raised an eyebrow, narrowing his eyes, “I thought I-“

“Yes, you made your position quite clear. They are YOUR children and I shouldn’t think about them one bit. No, in fact I should ignore them and let you drive yourself insane with guilt and whatever other emotions are running through your head. In fact, why don’t I move out? Perhaps than I won’t be a bother.” Luhan wore his own angry expression.

“I never said you should move out.” Minseok spat back.

“No, you didn’t. I did.” Luhan felt his body tense. He wasn’t going to back down, no, he wasn’t going to let this go. Minseok was being nasty, which he could understand to a degree, but it didn’t mean he had to stay silent on the matter.

“You have no idea what this is like.” Minseok growled, considering if he could push Luhan from where he stood in front of the door. He would never hurt Luhan, no, but he wanted to get out of that room.

“That is true.” Luhan glared, “I have no idea because you will not talk to me.”

“What do you want me to say? Do you need me to tell you how it happened? How they came to be?” Minseok was going for the throat, still he wanted to cringe as the words left his mouth. He knew how cruel they sounded.

Luhan stood silent for a moment, staring. “If I cared who you slept with before you met me then I dare say we would never have gotten married.”

“What are you implying?”

“I don’t know. You are the one with children, not I.” Luhan answered, knowing full well he had delivered an insult as great as any Minseok had hurled at him.

“Says the man who was considering marrying a jewel thief.” Minseok, in the heat of the argument, no longer recalled the reason he was upset to begin with. It wasn’t about a nanny anymore, it was about who could hurt whom the most. It was about winning.

Luhan looked at Minseok, truly looked at him. Noted the way his brow was furrowed, his hands clenched at his sides. Luhan considered, should he keep it going, let his own anger carry on? No, he had to stop this and stop it quickly. “Minseok, if you really hate me than do me a favor and tell me in so many words. If you are mad about Lisbeth, then stop talking out of your behind.”

“You started this.” Minseok fumed. “With talk of moving out!”

“Yes, and I am sorry. Honestly, I am sorry.” Luhan exhaled, “Now please, before I let you out of this room promise me you will give Lisbeth a chance.”

Minseok nodded, not daring to open his mouth. Not daring to say sorry to Luhan, not yet. He wanted only to see the children. Luhan accepted his nonverbal agreement, moving aside, letting Minseok open the door. Luhan watched Minseok go, waiting for a moment before he followed.

***

“Sir, you didn’t forget about the soiree at Viscount Kimberly’s residence, did you?” Kyungsoo attempted to deliver his query with an even tone, ignoring the fact his employer was staring at the two small children, observing the unwanted nanny as she read a story book to them, oblivous to the world.

“I can’t go.” Minseok replied.

“Sir, I don’t think that is a wise decision.” Kyungsoo had agreed to this. Yes, he had agreed to bring up the soiree, to convince Minseok to go, and to hopefully introduce a measure of sanity back into their household. Luhan barely had to do any begging, because for once Kyungsoo was in complete agreement with him.

“Why?” Minseok turned to look at his valet.

“Sir, you know this is for charity. It would be bad form if you did not attend after accepting the invitation. The twins will be fine now that Lisbeth is here.” Kyungsoo braced himself, half wondering if Minseok would pick something up and hurl it in his direction. Instead he heard his employer’s heavy sigh.

“I am being foolish, aren’t I?” Minseok muttered, stepping out of the morning room, leaving the nanny with the children.

“Yes, you are, sir.” Kyungsoo agreed, growing a bit bolder now that his employer seemed less likely to descend into an outburst of anger.

Minseok dragged his hand through his hair. “Kyungsoo, it – so much has happened.”

“I know sir, I know. Though please, try not to fight with the Earl. He…he has a bit of a foolish mind.” Kyungsoo had realized over the last day that he didn’t like when his employers fought. Once upon a time Kyungsoo thought the worst possible thing was seeing Minseok and Luhan giggling and acting like lovesick fools, he now knew that seeing them fight was far worse. Luhan teary eyed, Minseok angry, the house feeling heavy and out of sorts. Kyungsoo hated it.

“I was terrible to him.” Minseok sighed.

“I am sure he will forgive you, sir.”

Minseok stared through the doorway. Lisbeth was good with the children, definitely better than Minseok was. He had to admit it. And there was the matter of trying to take care of two children on his own when he had vowed to help Jongdae with the investigation. The situation was clearly impossible.

“The soiree is tonight, correct?”

“Yes, sir. I have your outfit ready.”

“Very well, I shall go.” Minseok agreed. Kyungsoo nodded, as he turned to take his leave Minseok stopped him. “Where is Luhan?”

“He stepped out, sir. He said he shall be back in time for the soiree.” Kyungsoo answered, noting that Minseok’s expression appeared a bit sad at the realization Luhan had taken his leave.

***

“Do you want a drink?” Heechul held out the brandy decanter, swirling it around playfully.

“No.” Luhan pouted.

“I really wish I could understand you, Easton.” Heechul sighed, “You married the man of your dreams and yet you still remain as hopelessly thick as ever.”

“We argued!” Luhan whined. “I said such nasty things! He said such nasty things!”

“Which of course will be solved by lying on my couch whining…” Heechul smirked.

Luhan glared at his old friend. He didn’t dare utter a retort because he knew very well Heechul was correct, as was unfortunately usually the case.

“Will you attend the soiree tonight?” Heechul poured himself a drink.

“I don’t know.” Luhan wasn’t sure if Kyungsoo would be able to convince Minseok. He was hoping that Lisbeth was working her magic at the moment, Minseok realizing that she should be called on to care for the children.

“Well, if you attend I dare say you should make it right before. I don’t want my good time ruined by you two quarreling love birds.” Heechul took a sip of his brandy, smacking his lips together as he swallowed. “Now, if you don’t mind, I would like you to vacate my home. My favorite person in the entire world should be here soon and I have an activity planned.”

“Favorite person?” Luhan was slow to realize Heechul’s meaning.

“Jongdae and sex.” Heechul answered, Luhan rolling his eyes and jumping from the couch immediately.

“Wait, you two..?” Luhan wiggled his eyebrows.

Heechul sighed. “Not yet, though if you dare spread that around town I will ruin your happy little life like you could not even imagine.”

Luhan gulped. He knew better than to mess with Kim Heechul.

***

Luhan hauled the packages through the back entry of the house, into the kitchen. Jongin walked behind him, bearing his own heavy load.

“What is all of this, sir?” Kyungsoo eyed up the packages.

“Toys, clothing, items for the twins.” Luhan was breathing heavily from carrying the items, “Did he agree to go?”

“Yes, sir. He did. And I readied your clothing as well.” Kyungsoo started picking at the packages.

“Oh, thank the lord.” Luhan smiled, the first time he had done so all day. Well, he had smiled once or twice while he was shopping for items for the twins, as he marveled at the tiny little clothing and adorable toys. Children were certainly interesting little things.

***

The carriage ride to the soiree was deafeningly silent, Minseok sitting on one side of the carriage and Luhan on the other, both men staring out the windows of the carriage as opposed to engaging in dreaded eye contact.

Minseok had tried to think of something to say, though hasty apologies didn’t seem to suffice. Not when he had spoken so harshly to Luhan, not when he had said things he didn’t really mean. No, sorry was a poor word to convey what he felt. Luhan had attempted to say something, back at the house, but he had halted. Minseok wasn’t sure if it was his own apology. Minseok wondered how they had gotten to this sad, silent state.

The carriage jostled on, arriving at the Viscount’s home within minutes. The Viscount Kimberly lived near Minseok and Luhan in a very fashionable and large residence. It was a yearly tradition, the Kimberly soiree. Viscount Kimberly was a politician, through and through, and he knew very well the power of positive publicity. Hence the Kimberly charity soiree was founded, a high society get together that included a bevy of hefty financial donations meant to support the city’s poor.

It was truly bad form to ignore the event, those who dared not to show had to offer a very solid alibi lest they face social scorn for their lack of concern over the cities less privileged residents. Luhan’s parents would be there, as would most of those who made the list of see and be seen.

The carriage slowed as it approached the home, a mansion that sat back behind an imposing stone fence, the grounds around the home of a decent size for a residence in the city. A line of carriages were slowly making their way down the drive, stopping as liveried footman opened doors and helped the passengers alight. The slowing of the carriage increased the awkward feeling within. Now that there was no longer passing scenery to stare at Luhan and Minseok had to make an effort to converse.

Luhan chanced a few words. “Will Junmyeon be here tonight?” Luhan didn’t really care if Junmyeon would be there, he just needed something to talk about to alleviate the tension.

“I think so.” Minseok answered, drumming his fingers on the carriage door.

Finally their turn arrived, footmen springing forward to open the carriage door. Minseok and Luhan left the carriage quickly. Minseok walked ahead, not bothering to wait for Luhan. If anyone dared spot the two of them it would be clear that something was amiss.

They made their way through the greeting line without incident, the Viscount not particularly close to either of them, offering a warm but short greeting. Once inside the ballroom Luhan scanned the area, looking for his parents. They were not within sight, which he was thankful for. Luhan had no desire to explain anything to them at the moment, particularly why he had borrowed Lisbeth.

“There is Jongdae and Heechul.” Minseok nodded towards a corner of the ballroom, Luhan’s eyes falling to where Minseok was motioning. Minseok was quick to walk towards them, once again leaving Luhan to hurry to catch up.

“D’Adderleigh. Easton.” Jongdae’s greeting was less than enthusiastic, no doubt a product of Heechul explaining that their friends were currently at odds.

“Jongdae. How are you?” Minseok tried to sound positive, not upset, not as though he was not in the middle of a quarrel with his husband.

“I am well.” Jongdae looked extremely uncomfortable. “And you?”

“What is the matter? You seem out of sorts.” Minseok asked, unaware that Luhan had told Heechul of their marital spat and by default Heechul had informed Jongdae of the fact.

“Oh, nothing! Nothing, old boy. How are the childr-“Jongdae felt a sharp jab to his ribcage, courtesy of Heechul, effectively quieting him.

“Have there been any new leads in the case?” Luhan expertly changed the subject.

“Sehun and Tao found the tailor, though he doesn’t know which garment the feather could have come from. Unfortunately it seems to be a dead end.” Jongdae was grateful that Luhan had focused the attention elsewhere.

“Speaking of the devil.” Minseok watched as Sehun sauntered up to the group, a wine glass in his hand.

“Hello.” Sehun greeted, “How is everyone tonight?”

“Great! Wonderful!” Jongdae blurted out enthusiastically, Heechul rolling his eyes, Sehun assuming a look of utter confusion.

“Jongdae was just informing us of what you found at the tailors.” Luhan yet again saved the conversation.

“Hm. Yes, it was rather unfortunate. Hopefully Junmyeon has better luck with Changmin.” Sehun took a sip of his wine, “They should be here soon.”

“Junmyeon is attending alongside Changmin?” Minseok hadn’t heard, though he thought it a rather good idea considering how suspicious Changmin was acting.

“Yes.” Jongdae stared towards the receiving line, “And here they are now.”

Minseok and Luhan turned, witnessing Changmin bowing graciously to the Viscount Kimberly, Junmyeon doing the same as he stood by Changmin’s side. The pair entered the ballroom, speaking to each other, Changmin leaning in to catch Junmyeon’s words. Minseok wished he knew what they were saying, though he knew full well Junmyeon would give them a full recounting of events later.

Minseok was so focused on observing Changmin it took him a moment to digest the announcement directly following their arrival, informing those gathered that the Comte Labeaux had arrived.

“Wonderful.” Jongdae muttered under his breath.

“I best not have to hold you two back.” Heechul directed his comment at Luhan and Minseok.

“Hold me back?” Minseok looked confused, then he spotted Kris walking into the ballroom, his trusty cane in hand. “I hate him.” His words were rather involuntary, unable to hold back his spite he had let them slip.

“Ignore him.” Luhan whispered, the most intimate thing he had said to Minseok since their fight. Minseok knew better than to argue with the Comte at a public event, therefore Luhan’s words were not needed. Yet the sight of the man who so boldly had equated children to money made Minseok’s blood boil.

“He visited my office, wanting to see her body.” Jongdae did not have to explain who he was referring to. Minseok didn’t respond, guessing as much given the Comte’s strong reaction at Angelique’s death.

“What a pleasant evening.” Heechul deadpanned, noting the enormous amount of tension crackling in the air. Between Minseok, Luhan, and the Comte. Between Minseok and Luhan. Probably between others as well though the anger in his own immediate vicinity drown everything else out.

The musicians seated at the far end of the large room struck up a light and breezy note, several couples taking to the dance floor. The dynamic of the room shifted as people made way for the dancers, moving to the sides of the large ballroom to observe. Standing in a corner, Minseok and the other men didn’t need to adjust their positions. They looked on, Jongdae attempting small talk as the notes of the concerto filled the room.

As the dance continued Minseok noted where the Comte stood, even if Luhan had told him to ignore Kris. He wanted to be ready if Kris approached, prepared to hold his tongue, as it would be an enormous feat to not respond with anger.

The music died down, the dancers bowing to their partners as a break in the music occurred. The now empty dance floor afforded Minseok a better view of the room. He noted that the Comte was, at present, engaged in a discussion with a middle aged matron. Changmin and Junmyeon were busy chatting with Junmyeon’s father. Minseok didn’t see Luhan’s parents, though they were often late to arrive.

“Oh, wonderful, a speech.” Heechul yawned, nodding towards the Viscount Kimberly. The host and consummate politician moved towards the middle of the dance floor, signaling to the musicians. A few loud notes were played before the man spoke up.

“Friends, do-gooders, kind and charitable people.” The viscount started, holding his arms out as if he could embrace the crowd, “I would like to take a moment to thank you all for attending the annual Kimberly charity soiree, an event that makes a very pronounced difference in the lives of those  poor souls that are-“

The Viscount never had a chance to finish his speech. Not after a shout sounded, then a scream. Minseok, having turned his attention away from the Comte as he listened to the Viscount, suddenly realized Kris was no longer standing near the matron. His eyes darted around the room, finding Kris standing near the entrance.

“You dastardly scoundrel! You monster!”

Minseok had no doubt the words were being yelled by the Comte Labeaux, his accented words unmistakable to any who had spoken to him before.

“Oh, some excitement.” Heechul rubbed his hands together, straining to get a better look at what was happening.

“I challenge you to a duel, sir. You are a disgusting excuse for a gentlemen!” Kris yelled, leaning forward, his tall form noticeable over the others who were swarming to see what was going on. The Comte moved, yanking his arm, pulling someone behind him.

“My lord! Is that Victoria?!” Jongdae couldn’t believe his eyes. Kris had pulled someone behind him as if to shield them - and that someone certainly appeared to be his sister.

“I think it is.” Sehun stood on his tiptoes, craning his neck, “I think Kyuhyun is there.”

There was little doubt who Kris had challenged to a duel once he spoke again, his words loud, meant to be heard, to carry through the crowd. “Cho Kyuhyun, meet me at the park at dawn and I shall ensure you take your last breath!”

The crowd moved slightly, Minseok able to confirm the truth as his line of sight cleared. It was Kyuhyun, a scowl on his face, standing a few feet away from a furious Comte Labeaux. An interesting turn of events, indeed.

***

“Oh my! Oh my word!” The Viscount Kimberly appeared on the verge of tears as he watched the scene unfold before him, his precious charity soiree absolutely ruined. The society pages would no doubt report on the matter, throwing his good deeds into the mud due to young and foolish gentlemen who knew not how to behave in public.

“Gentlemen, Gentlemen!” Heechul stepped forward, sweeping past the Viscount Kimberly as he moved towards the source of the disturbance, “Duels are so very overrated these days. Why not fisticuffs?”

The Comte Labeaux, one hand clutching his sister’s wrist, the other angrily pointing at Cho Kyuhyun, turned to see who dared mock his desire to duel. He didn’t immediately recognize the man, which wasn’t that unexpected given his rather short time in the country.

“Comte, my fine sir, I think you best take this somewhere else, don’t you?” Heechul dared place a hand on the Comte’s shoulder.

“Who are you?” Kris spat, looking Heechul up and down.

“A very fashionable, well-meaning friend.” Heechul smiled, turning his attention to Victoria. “And my, how pretty you have become since I last saw you. Shall we take a turn around the dance floor?”

“Yes.” Victoria answered immediately. The woman looked utterly distraught, or perhaps just very angry. Her face was flushed, her eyes wide, her evening glove slipping down her arm as her brother held her wrist in an iron grip.

“Then shall we?” Heechul offered his hand, Victoria reaching out and claiming it. The Comte Labeaux, utterly confused, let go of his sister as the musicians struck up a waltz. Heechul escorted Victoria towards the middle of the ballroom, smiling at the Viscount Kimberly as if to tell the man that he best move out of the way – quickly. The viscount did just that. Slowly couples paired up, joining in the dance amidst the confusing atmosphere.

***

“Letter?!” Kyuhyun leaned back in his chair, laughing, “You are after the letter?”

“Yes.” Jongdae was not in a laughing mood. No, he was rather preoccupied at the moment. After Heechul had so expertly diffused the situation Jongdae had attempted to convince Kyuhyun to have a word with him. Such a task was nearly impossible with Kris spewing hatred, pointing and yelling at the man.

In the end Jongdae had to ask Sehun and Junmyeon to direct the Comte out of the ballroom, by force if necessary. Thankfully a strong arm around the Comte’s shoulders, courtesy of Sehun, and the opportunity to engage Changmin as a second in the duel (offered, oddly enough, by Changmin himself) gave the Comte more than enough reason to leave the ballroom and go to the mansion’s study for a more private discussion.

Kyuhyun had willingly followed Jongdae, Minseok, and Luhan to the library of the home, the Viscount happy to offer rooms to the men as long as they promised not to disturb his soiree any further.

“I burnt it shortly after the Prince gave it to me. It would be terrible to have something so dreadfully incriminating around, wouldn’t it?” Kyuhyun shook his head, smiling. “How long have you been after me? I dare say, you have been wasting your time.”

“Where were you?” Minseok pressed. He was leaning against the large desk that dominated one end of the library, observing Kyuhyun’s mannerisms as he was interrogated.

“D’Adderleigh, when did you become such a spoil sport?” Kyuhyun sighed, then suddenly his eyes lit up. “Though I should be saying congratulations on your marriage, you two.”

“Where were you?” Luhan reiterated, unwilling to forget the point of their conversation amidst a halfhearted congratulations.

“Such serious men you all are.” Kyuhyun fidgeted, shifting in his seat. “If you must know I took a turn about the countryside with Victoria.”

“Why?” Jongdae asked.

“Have you seen her? Why wouldn’t I is the more appropriate question, old boy.” Kyuhyun winked. His interrogators did not share the amusement in his words.

“What of Victoria’s maid?” Luhan pressed.

“Maid? I haven’t the faintest idea.” Kyuhyun stood suddenly, “If you are finished with these rather boring questions I must be going. I have a duel to prepare for.”

“You must be joking.” Jongdae hadn’t believed that Kyuhyun would willingly duel the Comte, but apparently he was wrong.

“No, a duel is a very serious matter.” Kyuhyun pressed his hands to his pants, smoothing out his clothing.

“You are going to duel tomorrow, without naming a second? Without even considering offering an apology?” Jongdae couldn’t believe that Kyuhyun was so foolish, though in retrospect he shouldn’t have been surprised. The man had, after all, disappeared from the city while potentially carrying a letter that would destroy the Prince Regent.

“Sir, I have no apology to offer, so I dare say there is no reason to prolong it.” Kyuhyun crossed his arms, standing tall and firm.

“Was Victoria’s maid with her when you left?” Minseok wouldn’t let Kyuhyun walk out of the room without telling him that much, he wasn’t going to let the matter drop.

“No.” Kyuhyun stared at Minseok, looking him in the eyes. Minseok wished he could detect a hint of deception, a hint of something there that would tell him Kyuhyun was lying. But he did not. “What is all this talk of a maid?”

“I am afraid we are going to have to detain you until we can verify your story.” Jongdae ignored Kyuhyun’s question. He wouldn’t let Kyuhyun walk out of the room, out his grasp, until he knew very well that he was telling the truth. The only other person who could corroborate Kyuhyun’s story was Victoria, he would need to question her separately.

“I am afraid that is not possible, unless of course I have done something illegal. Something you can prove.” Kyuhyun glared, challenging Jongdae to try to keep him there.

“There are enough suspicions for me to hold you, don’t press your luck old boy.” Jongdae motioned for Minseok to walk with him, out of earshot of Kyuhyun. Luhan moved to stand in the way of Kyuhyun leaving, thankfully the man did not try to push his way out of the room.

“Please fetch Victoria for questioning. Take her to one of the sitting rooms.” Jongdae whispered to Minseok, patting him on the back in encouragement. Minseok nodded, leaving the room quickly.

***

Minseok was nearing the end of the long hallway when Sehun turned the corner, rushing towards him.

“The Comte, Victoria, and Changmin left!” Sehun looked to be in a panic, “I tried to stop them but they pushed past me.”

“Damn it.” Minseok felt like punching the wall, raining plaster down on the parquet floors.

“Is Kyuhyun still in the library?” Junmyeon blurted out as he too came running into the hall, his own expression not much more confident than Sehun’s. Heechul followed at the rear, though his movements were much less hurried.

“Yes, though he is very much of a mind to leave at the moment.” Minseok looked back down the hall, towards the library.

“Can we keep him here?” Sehun asked, uncertain of what legal grounds they had to detain Kyuhyun.

“I believe there is enough suspicion to hold him. We best get back to the room.” Minseok turned to walk back towards the library when he heard a crash. Fearing something dreadful had happened he ran down the hall, throwing open the door to the library, Sehun, Heechul, and Junmyeon piling in after him.

“My mistake.” Kyuhyun stood next to a shattered vase, staring at the broken pieces on the floor. “I tend to be a bit clumsy at times.”

Minseok breathed a sigh of relief to see Jongdae and Luhan were still in the room, very much uninjured.

Jongdae approached Minseok, asking in hushed tones if he had managed to find Victoria. When he learned that she had left he groaned. “Can not one person cooperate?”

“I dare say, it is very nice to catch up with all of you but if you truly have nothing but the possibility I may have a letter that was given to me as a reason to detain me, you are on very shaky if not outright impossible legal grounds.” Kyuhyun put his hands on his hips, kicking the pieces of the shattered vase absentmindedly with his feet.

“Is he correct?” Sehun questioned Jongdae, clearly worried.

Jongdae closed his eyes, sighing.

“Unless of course you want me to call upon my lawyer, who I am certain would be more than happy to attend to this matter even at this late hour.” Kyuhyun suggested.

“You may go.” Jongdae didn’t dare look at his friends as he spoke, feeling like he had let them all down. He was certain that if Kyuhyun’s lawyer was called he would have to let the man go, there wasn’t anything substantial enough to hold him.

Kyuhyun smiled, “Now that is a bit of logic and reason I can get behind. Now if you will excuse me.” Kyuhyun sauntered from the room. Adding insult to injury he patted Jongdae’s shoulder lightly as he passed him, as if to mock him for his failed efforts.

Once Kyuhyun was gone Jongdae walked to where the remnants of the vase lay, kicking the porcelain pieces in a fury.

“We need to stop that duel, or we shan’t find anything out.” Junmyeon stated the obvious.

Jongdae nodded, not bothering to turn around. He was angry, regretful. Taking a deep breath he barked out orders, not willing to lose the ground they had gained despite his inability to detain his suspects. “Sehun, watch the Comte’s house. Take Tao with you. Junmyeon, I need you to watch Changmin’s house, make sure he doesn’t make it to the dueling grounds in the morning, even if you have to knock him out to do so.”

“What of Kyuhyun?” Minseok questioned.

“I will take care of him.” Jongdae turned towards his friends, his hard expression relaying just how much frustration he was feeling at the moment. “Easton, D’Adderleigh, I need you to go to the park. If anyone makes it to the dueling grounds I need you to stop them before the situation gets out of hand.”

Jongdae turned to Heechul, “Now tell me everything Victoria said, in detail.”

“Oh, you want to chat? How forward of you.” Heechul winked, earning a scowl from his boyfriend.

***

Luhan cursed under his breath as the two people he absolutely didn’t want to encounter at the moment stood between him and freedom.

“Our darling son! And his handsome husband!” The Duchess of Hayden cooed, smiling as she took in the sight of Luhan and Minseok walking towards the entry way, having just come from the library.

Minseok bowed to his in-laws, a rather formal and stiff greeting. Luhan feigned a smile. “Mother, Father, how are you tonight?”

“Very well! I did hear there was a bit of a disturbance here earlier?” The Duchess clearly wanted to know the details.

“A disturbance? Your grace, I am not sure that we encountered a disturbance.” Minseok plastered on his own false smile, attempting to charm his way out of a long conversation with Luhan’s parents.

“Hm. Well I shall have to ask the Viscount about it then.” The Duchess swatted at her husband as the Duke attempted to wander away, clearly not finding the prospect of a long conversation with his son to be exciting.

“Dear, I heard that you borrowed Lisbeth. Is everything well?” The Duchess asking the one question Luhan truly did not want to answer.

“We needed help settling into the place, I hope you don’t mind, your grace.” Minseok took control of the conversation, Luhan grateful for it.

“Oh, well if that is the case then very good.” The Duchess smiled.

“We were just about to leave, Mother.”

“Is that so? Well, I suppose newlyweds have other things to do.” To Luhan’s utter horror his mother winked.

“Yes, well, we shall visit soon.” Luhan grabbed Minseok’s wrist, dragging him away from what was certainly one of the most embarrassing moments of his life. Once they were through the front door, standing in the cool night air, Minseok gently moved his wrist out of Luhan’s grasp. It was a reminder that all was still not well between them.

Luhan looked down at his empty hand. He wouldn’t press the matter, not now, not when they had work to do.

“We should stop by the house for a bit before we head over to the park.” Minseok started walking towards where their carriage was waiting.

Luhan knew that Minseok was worried about the twins, which he really couldn’t fault him for. He followed his husband towards the carriage, wondering how they would fair waiting at the park, only the two of them.

***

The sun would rise in another hour. The grass was fresh with dew, the birds starting to wake. Minseok had insisted on walking to the park, the late hour – or early, depending on how you considered the time – would make hailing a carriage far too burdensome. The couple had stopped by their home for a few hours, changing their clothing and looking in on the children.

Minseok had to admit that Lisbeth was wonderful with the children. When he peered into their room, candle in hand, trying to shield the light from waking them, he found the twins passed out on either side of the woman. A story book lay in the nanny’s lap, the scene invoking one of a late-night story, the trio all drifting off together amidst an imaginary and fantastic tale.

Yet Minseok didn’t say a word to Luhan. He didn’t tell Luhan he was correct, that a nanny was needed. No, he didn’t say sorry or explain how wrong he had been. He was quiet as they walked to the park, not knowing how to bridge the gap between them.

Luhan was quiet too, not uttering a single word on their walk. The gas street lighting illuminated their path as they traversed the largely deserted streets towards the park. The time passed slowly for Luhan, each moment of silence one moment too many. Their easy chatter was gone now, replaced by a tension that was extremely uncomfortable. When they reached the park Luhan found himself thankful for the diversion, of the task at hand, of the need to observe.

Duels were, by tradition, held deep within the sprawling park - near the long, curving lake that offered more pleasant pastimes during the daylight hours. Luhan had no way to know if they would not chance upon a duel in progress, though the more sober individuals often waited until the sun had risen to shoot or stab each other.

The couple reached the lake after a few minutes, Minseok pointing toward a grove of trees. “We should wait there.”

Luhan uttered his agreement, following his husband to the copse of trees. The park was thankfully deserted, no sign of duelists or of the pickpockets and thieves that sometimes prowled the area at night. His guard was still up, just in case. When they reached the grouping of trees they both sat, knowing they were in for await.

The chirping of the birds intensified as the minutes dragged on.

“I hope we don’t have to stop anyone from shooting.” Luhan was the first to break the silence. Sitting with his arms resting on his knees he stared ahead, towards the lake.

“I hope so too.” Minseok was leaning back, his legs jutting out in front of him, his hands resting behind him for support.

Another minute. Then another. Silence other than the chirping of birds, a rustle of leaves as the wind started to pick up.

From where he was sitting, Minseok could observe Luhan – as much as the breaking dawn allowed him to. Luhan was hunched over, hugging his knees, his chestnut hair moving in the wind. Minseok watched as Luhan’s back slightly rose and fell with each breath.

Minseok chided himself, realizing how stupid, how cruel he had been. Luhan had done everything for him – hell, he had taken a bullet for him. Yet here he was, yelling at the man, shutting him out. Luhan, Luhan had always believed in him, loved him. Luhan…

“I am sorry.” Luhan turned suddenly, blurting out an apology as he stared at his husband. Minseok noted the tears in his husband’s eyes, threatening to spill over. Minseok tensed, knowing full well he was the source of Luhan’s pain. The source of his discomfort, the source of the discord in their relationship. It was all his fault.

“No.” Minseok choked out the words, feeling his own tears threatening to spring forth, “I am sorry. I am so, so sorry. It is my fault.”

“I shouldn’t have called for Lisbeth without your agreemen-“

“Luhan?”

“Yes?”

Luhan was staring, wide eyed. The tears were still pooling in those beautiful brown eyes, though they didn’t spill over. No, they remained a threat that tore Minseok’s heart out, made him move, and made him want to fix what he could.

“I love you.” Minseok reached a hand forward, finding Luhan’s cheek he cupped his face. “So, so much.”

Luhan would have spoken his own terms of endearment, whispered a hundred times how much he loved Minseok, though he couldn’t. Not when Minseok was pushing him back, crashing their lips together.

Luhan let himself be pushed into the wet grass, molding his position to fit Minseok’s body as the older man lay atop of him.

It was a chaste kiss at first, a gesture of love and affection, simple but so, so wonderful given their recent argument. Luhan didn’t press for more, only willing to receive what his husband wanted to give. When he felt Minseok’s mouth open, sucking slightly at Luhan’s lips, he complied, allowing Minseok entrance.

Minseok’s tongue slipped inside Luhan’s mouth, gliding over his tongue, setting a slow and languid pace. Luhan raised his hands to Minseok’s waist, pulling him close. Minseok coaxed more, wanting more, as he deepened the kiss, exploring Luhan’s mouth with his tongue.

The sensation coupled with the intense emotions – the realization that they would be okay – fueled Luhan’s reaction, a moan escaping him as he held Minseok tightly. It was if they had rediscovered each other after a long drought, an urgency overtook their actions. Luhan gripped Minseok’s waist tightly as he moved swiftly, flipping Minseok onto his back.

Minseok made a sound of surprise as his back hit the ground, his lips no longer locked with Luhan’s. He had only a moment to regret the loss of contact before Luhan lowered his mouth to Minseok’s neck, sucking and nipping. Leaving marks, claiming.

Minseok raised his left hand, snaking it through Luhan’s arms he pressed it to the back of Luhan’s head. He twined his hand through Luhan’s soft hair, pressing down slightly, wanting more.

Luhan was happy to oblige. In fact he was desperate to do more, elicit a stronger response from his husband. He lifted his head up, sitting back he began to undress Minseok, hurriedly pulling at buttons. Minseok attempted the same, pulling at Luhan’s clothing in turn, a mess of arms and legs as they both struggled towards their desire end state.

Minseok sucked in a breath at the sight of Luhan, his chest, smooth and wide, his lean torso, the sight of him in the low light of the morning breathtakingly beautiful. Moving forward Minseok slipped a hand around Luhan’s neck, his mouth finding Luhan’s chest, sucking and kissing.

The movement of Minseok’s tongue against his skin had Luhan holding back a moan, afraid that someone may be in the park despite the hour, afraid they would be interrupted. He felt the tightening in his half undone trousers, his want and need mixing into an insatiable appetite. Luhan cupped Minseok’s face in his hands, pulling him away gently he pressed him towards the ground.

“I can’t…we need to now.” Luhan smiled, leaning forward, humming his words against the crook of Minseok’s neck. Minseok bucked forward, Luhan’s hands reaching lower, along Minseok’s waist, to his paints, pulling them down, freeing his erection.

Minseok moving forward as Luhan began stroking, once then twice.

“I need to stretch you.” Luhan breathed into Minseok’s chest. Minseok could feel Luhan lift his fingers to his lips, sucking. The thought of Luhan thrusting his fingers into him drove him near madness. Minseok didn’t have to wait long before he felt Luhan’s other hand snake lower, over his cock. Minseok opened his legs wide, wanting.

It was a jolt of pain as Luhan inserted two fingers at once, not wanting to wait. Minseok tried to adjust flinching as Luhan began to move.

“I am so, so sorry.” Luhan groaned, kissing Minseok’s cheeks reverently, one hand inside of him and the other still stroking his cock slowly.

The pains subsided quickly, replaced with a pooling heat, Minseok moving against Luhan’s fingers. Luhan recognized the signs, knew that Minseok was loosening around him. He inserted another finger, thrusting up hard as Minseok moved to accommodate.

“Hmm.” Luhan couldn’t hold back any longer. He slipped his fingers out, Minseok letting out a throaty whine at the loss of contact – a noise that threatened to drive Luhan insane.

Luhan pulled his pants down, gripping Minseok’s hips he spread his legs wider. Guiding his cock, he lined up against Minseok’s hole. He thrust in quickly, needing to feel Minseok around him, tight, inviting.

Minseok threw his head back as Luhan entered him, filling him.

“You are so beautiful.” Luhan moaned as he set a quick pace, not able to slow down his need. Minseok, lying under him, around him, wrecked. Minseok, beautiful Minseok. The only man he wanted, the only man that could have him burning from desire like this.

Luhan gripped Minseok’s legs, pushing them further up, throwing his husband’s legs over his shoulders as he continued his furious pace.

“So good.” Minseok bit his bottom lip, the sensation of Luhan driving into him, hard, fast, as needy as he was threatened to push him over the edge.

Luhan’s hands dug into Minseok’s flesh, likely leaving marks. Minseok didn’t care. He didn’t care if he had burns on his back from the friction of being fucked open on the ground. He didn’t care because it felt so, so good.

“There?” Luhan knew the moment he hit that place inside of Minseok, the moment when Minseok cried out, his hands tightening around Luhan’s arms.

“Hard. Hard-“ Minseok cried out, “er. Faster.”

Luhan thrust again and again, feeling Minseok tighten around him. He let go of Minseok’s right leg, reaching down he began stroking Minseok’s cock. He watched as Minseok gasp, falling apart as he drove into him, again and again.

“Come for me.” Luhan whispered, urging, wanting. Minseok bucked, tensing, gasping as he spilled his seed on his stomach.

It was only a moment more when Luhan knew he couldn’t hold back, the feeling of Minseok spasming around him too much to bear. He spilled his seed inside of his husband, a cry of Minseok’s names on his lips.

Then silence. Heavy breathing, the sound of birds, the realization that the sun was rising further in the sky.

Luhan moved forward, panting, he placed a kiss on Minseok’s lips. “We should never fight again.”

Minseok blinked rapidly, trying to gain his bearing. Then he smiled, a disarming action that had Luhan grinning like an idiot. “If we can do this every time we fight I think we should fight more often.”

Luhan smiled, not daring to argue.

NEXT CHAPTER >>>

Comments

[sakura-tears.livejournal.com]

omg sounds interesting i cant wait <3
minseok you idiot hdu say those things to luhan ;A; asdfkklj xiuhan with children ;AA; my sanity is wavering ;AA;
AND OMG JUNMYEON AND YIXING INTERACTIONS!!!! pls tell me they will be the next couple ;3; no wait don't! i dont want any spoilers and let me just drown in my feels and insecurities alone o<-<
heechul and jongdae are the most crazy pair ever lmao
also we should totally just stab kris and changmin (and maybe kyuhyun) and get this shit over with >:(