Archive of Our Own

Barok! The shout echoed over the quay and a few heads turned. A man in a beige traveling coat began waving excitedly and with the other hand, grabbed the massive suitcase next to him, only to stumble to the side. He heaved it back up with both hands this time, bending his back to balance the weight, and slowly started to make his way through the passengers that disembarked the ship from France alongside him.

Barok van Zieks hurried through the pack of people. Thanks to his height and reputation, the crowd parted before him and keeping an eye on the puffy blond hair of his friend was therefore no trouble.

Barok! the man exclaimed again, dropping his luggage. The woman who had been walking behind him bumped into the trunk as she passed which led to a tirade of apologies from the man that she lent no ear to.

Albert. Van Zieks bowed his head. It is good to see you again.

I'm so happy to be finally back in London! Albert answered. I've missed you!

I feel the same. I'm sure we have much to share. Van Zieks picked up the suitcase. Shall we? There is a carriage waiting.

You've thought of everything again, haven't you? Naturally, van Zieks responded and Albert had to smirk.

Swimming with the crowd and with a stop for Albert to buy a newspaper which van Zieks paid for, they exited the quay to the port and boarded one of the countless waiting cabs.

I have booked a table for us at nine p.m., van Zieks began. Here is the address. He handed Albert a note and insisted, Don't lose it. I won't! Albert said confoundedly and stuffed the paper into the inside pocket of his coat.

It was a quick drive to the hotel. It was small, rather cozy and suited Albert's wallet. It had taken three letters to convince van Zieks to leave the accommodation expenses to him.

Van Zieks took off his tophat as they entered but in comparison, his tailcoat and cravat stuck out. He carried Albert's luggage to his room and excused himself.

You're not staying? I assumed I could explore London with you, Albert wanted to know. As much as it pains me, I cannot. Work is calling. Albert pressed his lips to a line. I see.

However, van Zieks closed the open door behind him. Tonight I will be all yours. The line on Albert's lips was pulled to a smile. I'm looking forward to it.

Van Zieks bowed goodbye and left.

A few hours later, he stood under a dim gas latern in London town and checked his pocket watch. Nine o'clock sharp but no sign of-

Barok! On the other side of the street, a man in a beige traveling coat waved at him and hastily crossed the road, narrowly avoiding a passing carriage.

Barok, I'm so sorry that I'm so late! Albert pleaded. I didn't misplace the address but I got lost and when I asked for the way, I must have been tricked because when I asked again, I was sent in the opposite direction and-

Van Zieks raised a hand to silence him. You are punctual. Punc... tual? Albert repeated. Oh, so my calculations were correct! The amount of delays I took into account was exact! A stroke of genius! He laughed triumphantly, continuing still as they were led to the back of the restaurant.

Van Zieks had reserved a dining room, away from the noisy bustling of London's upper-class that filled the other tables. Before Albert could open his mouth to place an order of soup and sausages for himself, van Zieks had already ordered lamb and wine for them both.

Barok... Albert cringed. I appreciate it, I really do, but... I can't possibly pay for that. You're my guest, van Zieks replied nonchalantly and Albert's jaw dropped. But I can't- He considered. I won't allow you to- He analyzed. It cannot be that- He costed. And sunk his head in defeat. You're too kind.

The waiter returned with a bottle and glasses.

Have a taste, van Zieks demanded. Albert took a careful swig, contemplated for a bit and came to a conclusion, It tastes... good? Van Zieks raised his brows. That is less of an answer than I expected. Albert sighed. How cruel of you, Barok.

Van Zieks tilted his glass and swirled the contents before savoring the wine. For a moment he stared into the distance, Albert could see his jaw muscles tightening and a second later, his throat bobbing. Bright, he then said. And silky, with a hint of raspberry and vanilla - aged in French oak, it seems - and ending with a smooth finish. He set down his glass. You're absolutely right. It does taste good.

Haha! Albert pushed up his glasses. It seems I'm not that lost of a cause when it comes to tasting wine! Let us say you were always eager to learn. Van Zieks took another sip. Albert followed. Why don't you take me back to yours and teach me then?

Van Zieks hailed a coach. They sat side by side in silence as they drove out of the inner city, the fog growing thicker which each minute that went by.

The inside of the cab was cold and dark. Albert moved closer, brushing van Zieks's glove with his fingertips. Their pinkies overlapped and intertwined and they shared a knowing glance.

Arriving at the state, they stepped out of the carriage and the driver took off. As they werre walking towards the manor, Albert raised his forearm and when van Zieks did not react, poked him with his elbow.

Hm? Van Zieks turned to him, then frowned. Are you... offering your arm to me? Yes, that is exactly what I am doing! Albert said. If I'm unable to repay you with money, then at least with gestures!

As I have previously mentioned, there is no need for any recompense. Fine, Albert huffed. Then take it as a simple means of affection.

Van Zieks shook his head and finally, linked their arms. Albert lit up and Barok couldn't help a smile.

How could he not love this man?