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Chapter Text

You must. You must do it for your sister. You must. You must do it for your Family. You must. You must do it for the money. You must. You must … because you are the only one who can. 
These were the arguments that pressed down upon his head as he was summoned back from school. The family was in need, and there was nothing you would not do for your family. Lance felt though, that dressing up in a gown, donning a bonnet, impersonating as his sister, all but swindle her fiancé and securing his income into the family, that could save his family status, were a stretch. But one does what one must for the family. Even if the corset were killing him slowly and with uttermost precision. 

The McClain’s were a family with uttermost respect and pedigree. They were always invited to all the parties and soirees, and one would be lucky to be considered an acquaintance of such high stature, outside and in the city. The problem was, and Mrs. McClain would rather drink from the night pot than let anyone know, that they were broke. 

The family had always enjoyed the finer things in life, and lived comfortably in their estate  on top of Estero hill, which was considered one of most impressive estates in the region, despite it’s moderate land around it.
The late and honorable Mr. McClain senior, had worked hard, married an heiress and had secured a wealthy fortune, he could pass on to his oldest son and future children. As such Mr. McClain Jr. had married a love match, and enjoyed the rich fruit from his father's labor. And in good time also he contributed to the sizable family fortune. It was first after his father's passing that they found out that the treasure chest lost a considerable amount each year. Mr. McClain senior had been an honorable man and charitable man, much to his poor wife's despair, but in his late years, his memory stared to fail him, and he keep giving help, and financial support to people, a lot with questionable reason of honors, even if there were no money to give from. 
So Mr. McClain Jr. spent a good deal of his time tracking down and settling his late father's creditors. 

He himself felt very lucky that his wife blessed him with five beautiful and smart children, that each would contribute and make a name for themselves in the world. 
Their oldest Mr. Luis McClain had married a wonderful woman Elisabeth from a good family, and they had been blessed with two children, Nadia and Sylvester. They had their own small town house a bit away from the family, until they would inherit the estate. The young couple had felt like they needed to spread their wings for a while, and introduce their children to city life. 

The oldest McClain daughter was in her own way beautiful. She had declared herself a splinter to many young bachelors despair. Miss Veronica McClain would in no way let any man determine her life, and had taken up the studies to become a doctor, even when many advised against it. Still she proved them all wrong, and graduated first in her class as the only female in her class, year and school. She had set up her own practice in town, and people were knocking her doors down, to be treated by her. Either for her work and reputation, or to brag to their neighbors that they had been helped by one of the only female doctors south of Okelion. 

The middle son Mr. Marco McClain had been a bit of a wild child, but in the end he was also straightened out, and was sent off to serve and have a most esteemed military career. 

Then there was the youngest, the twins. Mr. Lance McClain and his sister Miss Katherine McClain. The boy was a smart, bright boy, that took the scholar way and studied in one the the most esteemed universities in the city on a scholarship, The university of Altea. Here he studied the sky with a graduate in Astronomy and physics, with Economics on the side.
His twin sister was a divine beauty, a delightful dancer, who could sing like a bird and was the attention of every ball and tea party she participated in. Unfortunately she was cursed with poor health that sometimes would make her ill from days on end, before she returned with wit and grace to the social scene like she never left. 

Sadly for their family, tragedy struck further, and Mr. McClain was killed in a road accident when he was returning from the city, leaving the family without their largest benefactor and beloved father. The official story was that Mr. Luis McClain and Missus moved back to the estate, because they now officially owned it. In truth it was because even though Mr. Luis did make a remarkable income to care for his family, he did not make enough to procure for two estates, and had to move back to the family estate, to take care of their grief stricken poor mama. 

Miss Veronica’s doctorate had made her whole family proud, but cost the bank box dearly. The expense for the education, books and equipment, whom she was charged extra for because of her gender, plus the loan her father had to make, to help her start up her practice, had taken a toll on their lifestyle, but still not enough to cause worry. They would pull through and Mr. McClain would earn it back. Eventually. 

Despite Mr. Marco’s splendid military career, he was sometimes in less fortunate company, and under the influence developed an uncharming habit of gambling, that quickly ate away of his income, and money that was supposed to be sent home to the family. 

Dear Miss Katherine, who was her mother's pride and joy and greatest social success, were also her greatest worry. Despite her brilliant place in her social settings, she had always been frail, and easy to take ill. The family had done everything in their power to conceal the fact that every other month, when their daughter was away on finishing school, she was actually home sick in bed unable to move, barely eating or talking. 

Only her brother and twin had been lucky enough to get a scholarship to school, thereby not being a strain on his family. He even secured lodgins under his own budget, by taking up a small job as a library assistant to secure his own income. 

But it had all come to naught. The old debt and new debt had piled up with his sister's medical bills. Luis had sold his town house and moved back into an estate, and the money earned were used to hold creditors at bay. The estate staff had been reduced, and half of the estate closed up to spare on expenses to keep the place warm in winter. All the children sleep together two by two, with the Luis family in their own room. Only Katherine with her declining health was given her own room. Veronica slept next to their mother to help her heal from the loss of her father. 

Only the outside of the estate was kept to the expected standards, plus a series of rooms to host small parties and dinners, all to keep up appearances. When people enquired about some of the closed rooms, Mrs. McClain giggled and brushed off the enquiry, saying that they were being re-decorated to a more modern style. The rooms had been under ‘Redecorating” for three years now. 
Mrs. McClain would make sure that everything was perfect, as expected of her social standing. Even if that meant that her children would sleep in the same rooms, and they would be served porridge for days, because social etiquette demanded that she hosted a small dinner party. 
Mrs. McClain's definition of small included only a five course meal, a band and only thirty invited guests.  

Luckily Miss Katherine could save them from this grueling state of improper lifestyle.
Mr. McClain had in his youth stricken acquaintance and later friendship with a certain Lord Kogane. The two of them had been inseparable in their youth, but duty and time had separated them. While Mr. McClain had been blessed with five children, Lord Kogane had not been so lucky, and his dear lady wife passed away while giving birth to his son and heir Keith Kogane. After his son's birth and wife's passing, Lord Kogane had married his mistress whom he already had an illegitimate son with. He took the boy in and the two boys grew up as equals and brothers. 
But the good name had taken damage with the affair, and the name Kogane no longer held the esteemed respect as it once did. 
In fear for his son’s position and future, the two old friends stroke a deal. 
McClain's youngest daughter, who was only two years younger than Lord Kogane’s heir, would marry his son, when Miss McCain had come of age. 
So from when Miss Katherine was five, she and Mr. Keith Kogane had become engaged to be married, with a minimal dowry and good income sent to the McClain's as a friendly gesture. 

Now because of the different regions the two families had inhabited in the childhood years, Miss Katherine and Mr Keith Kogane, now Lord Kogane after his father's too early passing,  had never met. Simple letters have been exchanged, but nothing note or gossip worthy, but at least they were made aware of each other after the Late Lord passed, as no one had informed the families of the agreement before the Lord died.
Circumstances were not in their favor and the engagement was prolonged due to the passing of Lord Kogane, the new Lord Kogane was too preoccupied with settling his fathers affairs to start up a courtship. So the two young people did not start the official courtship until a couple of years after Katherine had been out in society. Now that Katherine was soon to become 19, the two of them would meet and start their courtship. 
But Katherine had once again fallen ill, and was unable to leave her bed. This time their family doctor warned, she may never leave it. 

That was a problem. No man would want to marry a frail, and ill wife, that would probably never be able to bear him sons, and would only be a financial burden on his shoulders.
Lord Keith Kogane had done what nobody would have expected him to, and turned his family and fortune around. He had made a name for himself as a trader and businessman, and even made his bastard brother part of his business. Every social eye, and every unmarried daughter had their eyes on him, to snare him in and catch the big prize, that was his newly bought estate Marmora in the countryside, that was the biggest in the region, and his yearly income of 30.000 pounds a year. 
Such a man would clearly not settle for a woman such as Katherine, if he knew her predicament. Even to honor his father's memory. 
But the McClain’s needed the money and the yearly income Miss Katherine would be entitled to after marriage, to get them out of debt. After the two youngsters were married, Luis, Marco, Veronica and Lance would be able to make enough money to keep the estate and earn back their ways of living. That is what Mrs. McClain augmented at least. To give Katherine a chance for recovery, Mrs. McClain convinced Lord Kogane to have a long engagement under guise for the couple to get acquainted before marriage. Katherine’s condition was only half the truth. There was no way that Mrs. McClain would have her daughter to have anything other than the perfect spring wedding. Even if that meant waiting several months for the wedding to be held. Still the Lord needed to be distracted and engaged in the meantime. 

So Lance had been called back from school to act out his Mother's ingenous plan. Her words, not her sons. Lance, who had the same face as his twin, would impersonate his sister, seduce and make the mighty Lord Keith Kogane fall in love with him, to secure the marriage and income. Lord Kogane would then marry Katherine and after the wedding, take care of her and her medical bills, because he loved her so. The whole family were delighted and praised Mrs. McClain for her brilliant plan. 

Lance, on the other hand, saw a lot of conundrum in his mother's whiff of genius. It seemed to bear on Lance's ability to seduce a man, and durability to wear a corset. And all the implications and problems if they got caught.
His mother wacked him over the head with her fan, in a most unladylike manner and shushed him. So prior to Lord Kogane’s arrival, Lance had been segregated to his mother's personal teachings on being a lady. 

He dressed in gowns and dresses. Had special wigs made to look like his sister's long hair and updos, wore lace chokers and high necked dresses to conceal his Adam's apple. He learned to speak quietly, and in a higher tone to make his voice more feminine and wore makeup to enhance the right features. He was schooled in dinner etiquette, and his mother was sure, as long as he stayed away from Katherine’s normal social circles, no one would recognize him. 
But the rug was pulled out from under the family, when Lord Kogane announced his arrival, two weeks and four days prior to their agreed meeting time. So Lance had exactly three days of training and lessons as a lady, before meeting the estimated lord. Or as Lance had begun to refer him as. His undoing. 

But he squared up, sucked his stomach in, got sealed in a corset, donned a dress, wig, stockings, makeup and gloves and prepared to meet the mighty Lord Kogane. 
How hard could it be to seduce a man? 

Chapter Text

Lord Keith Kogane was a handsome proud man who had learned early in life that one must do what one must to uphold the right expectations. Due to his unfortunate circumstances, he had to earn his peers' respect and society's favour. Nothing would be served to him. 
But he was headstrong, gifted with a clever wit, and according to his tutors an incurable stubbornness. 
So after going to school, and afterwards taking over his father's estate and affairs before the man unfortunately met his untimely end, he had learned that pride would get you far in the world, but sometimes one had to put aside for the better of all. So from very early on, he knew he would never marry for something as fickle and romanticized as love. Even before he learned of his engagement, he knew that for a woman to take on the Kogane name, she must be of the uppermost best of circumstances, well-bred, with impeccable manners, and handsome at least. Nothing less would be a scandal. 

Miss Katherine McClain was just such a girl, and Keith could not have selected a finer specimen if he searched the whole county. So much was apparent when the two of them were introduced at her family estate. 
Keith had urgent business to attend later, and had to move his meeting with his new fiance up. The family were welcoming despite his minor dispute with decorum, and opened their home to Keith and his brother Taskashi to dine, before the two of them would join the rest of their party at the Marmora manner.

Miss Katherine had impeccable manners, a perfect schooling from finishing school, and a handsome face. She did not waste her voice on indifferent pleasantries, or remarks about the weather, which was a quality which Keith could appreciate. In fact she rarely spoke at all. 
Unfortunately he knew very little else of the girl. Every time he had tried to approach her with a question, her esteemed mother, or sister would answer in her stead, leaving the girl to avert her eyes, and look down in demurred.     

She was handsome rather than pretty, which was in Keith's favour rather than her own. She wad not blessed with a large bussom, like her mother and other sister, and her facial features were a little to sharp for what one you would prefer in the female sex.

In all matters she was deemed rather appropriate, and a humble lady, by the end of the night by his brother, and Keith shared his sentiment. 
There was just one problem. She was in fact a lady. 

Keith knew early on that he had no interest in the opposite sex, what so ever. In his youth he just thought that was a man's verse, as he heard a lot of his father's friends and companions  complain about their wife and daughters. Men would simply always find fault in women, and so would Keith. His feeling was of opposition against the fairer sex, and his lack of attraction must be rather normal. His fondness and regard for his own sex still in denial.
It was only when he caught his older brother in the embrace of another man, that he could get a word for it. After that he learned that the world was more different than he thought, and he would have to give up his pride and hope for love, to fit into it. Therefore the fiancé.

The day after he called on the McClain's, this time alone and for tea. 
Only the mother and sister joined him and his fiancé this time. After the pleasantries, Mrs. McClain remarked upon the exquisiteness of her garden and invited them all to take a stroll. Eager to leave the stuffiness of the sitting room, Keith obliged. He waited patiently for the ladies to get ready, catching a glimpse of Mrs. McClain as she helped Miss Katherine put on her bonnet. He had to do a double take, as the mother almost yanked at the daughter's bonnet, and the girl nodded and kept her gaze down. Both women did not appear pleased.
They had just left the parlour to join Keith and Miss Veronica when two children ran down the stairs, with their nanny sighing after them. Mrs. McClain's complexion turned absolutely alabaster, and she hurried the children outside, Miss Veronica after her, and made the nanny stay with Keith and his fiancé as chaperone. Keith offered his arm, but the lady just smiled coyly at him, refused and positively stalked down the stairs of her home. Keith had barely gathered his barrings to catch up to her. The old nanny trodded dutifully behind them with some distance to give the couple the illusion of privacy, but not too much. Keith finally caught up with his future bride. Her face was focused as she kept up her lively pace, curls bouncing, not caring that her skirt swished around her ankles, swiping up the dirt and making her dress dirty. 
“Miss Katherine.” He called to her, and she stopped her brisk pace to let him join her. 
“I thought this would be a leisure walk, not a race.” He tried to humour her, make her smile and giggle like ladies were supposed to do, but Miss Katherine McClain just nodded.
“I beg your pardon. That was terribly rude of me.” She slowed her walk to a more relaxed pace and Keith adjusted his cravat, and folded his hands behind him. He was ready to answer her oncoming pleasantries, the state of the garden, the wrath of the sun, but was surprised when nothing came. They had almost walked over half the garden, before Keith felt he ought to say something. 

“You do not speak much, do you Miss.?” He asked her, trying not to be rude, but the question did sound rather uncivilized. He could see the lady falter a bit, but only for a moment. The slightest flicker in her eyes. 
“I had always been of the opinion, if one have not something polite to say. One better not speak at all.” She said breathlessly, almost afraid of her own voice. Her voice was pleasant, but a bit vavery, and barely audible with the soft wind around them and rustling of the shrubbery. 
“Please, do speak up.” Keith said, again trying to be polite, but it was rather annoying. Miss Katherine McClain flinched just the tiniest bit before nodding again, and pulling her bonnet further down her face to shade from the sun. She already had a sun kissed complexion on top of her caramel colored skin. There were flowers in her bonnet and a long blue ribbon that played in the wind.
“As I just said. I have nothing to say.” Keith could see the lady making discrete glances behind her toward the old nanny, and up the hill where her mama was playing with her grandchildren.
Keith looked conspiratory towards the lady and then back to his fiancé, who kept her head down, her bonnet blocking her from view.
“Have you been told to guard your words around me?” He asked with a hint of a tease in his voice. To his surprise Miss McClain’s head sprung up, mouth already open to say something, probably nothing proper, before she quietly closed it again as a rose hue colored her cheeks. Keith could not help a little smile at her flustered state.
“You certainly have!” He tittered, only for Katherine cheek to flare as she turned towards him and made a gesture like she was gonna hit him, but only just stopped herself with a rather jerky motion. The nanny coughed behind them, and Lady McClain deflated once more, scarlet still plastering her cheeks. 

“Oh, come now Miss Katherine. Do not be like that. I hope we can come to talk to each other.”
“I probably should not.”
Keith halted in the disguise of admiring a begonia as they turned their backs from Mrs. McClain and Miss Veronica McClain’s prying eyes. 
“You can tell me.” In truth he did not care for her thoughts, but the silence was rather dull. He normally enjoyed silence. Preferred it actually, but the sight of Miss Katherine McClain's face, as she clearly fought to keep her mouth shut was amusing.
“Mama..” She stuttered, before gathering herself and continuing with a surprising confidence. “Mama thinks I will scare you away if I open my mouth. Too opinionated, she says. I will bore you half to death before we reach the end of this walkway, and then frightening you away from this household, and you never want to marry me. And if I continue speaking you will end up not liking me very much. Most gentlemen do not appreciate what I have to say.“ She inhaled, her words coming out like a stream of water, like she had been holding on to them. “Sorry. That was very rude, but you asked and I answered, and if you do not concur, then you should not have inquired, because once I start I have been told I do not stop and…” Keith snorted, making the woman hold her endless stream of words. 
“Do you think this is amusing?”
“For someone who is not supposed to talk, you seem like you have a great deal to talk about.”
She shut her mouth once more.
“I do not mind.” He told her, and for once he meant it.
“Do you have more to say?”
She shook her head. 
“You're quite certain.?” Another shake. “Nothing to say about the weather, or a remark on that rose bush...Or even of me.”
She stopped next to him, and Keith stopped two steps in front of her.
“You seem… nice.” She said softly, her fist clenching and unclenching in her skirt.
“Nice…” Keith echoed her sentiment. He titled his head at her odd statement.
“Yes.. proper for a gentleman.” She explained. Head low, ribbons, and flowers bobbing with her movements.
“That is all?” Keith folded his hands behind his back, and stood straighter.
“Yes.” The lady again took a couple steps close, but still kept her distance.
“One should not speak if one does not have something polite to say.” She nodded with resoluteness and looked him straight in the eyes. Her eyes were impossible blue.
“What have I done to vex you so?” He huffed at her backhanded insult.
“Oh, not you personally, my Lord.” She made a small bow, but then stood straight, tipping her head in contemplation. “You seem just very proper….and a bit….dull…”
Keith could feel his eyes twitch. He had been called many things throughout his life, but ‘Dull’ was a new one.
“Dull?” He repeated, tasting the word.
“Yes, ahmm, how should I explain this?” The lady fidgeted with her hands as she tried to formulate the proper words. She kept pulling at her gloves, only to realise she had done it, and pull them back on, only to repeat the process again and again. “You are the most exquisite specimen of a gentleman I have had the pleasure to be acquainted with. But you seem distant. I think, if I may be so forward, that you are hiding behind the gentleman, as no one may come to know the real you.”
Keith felt his blood run cold, both with fear and anger. Did she know? How? Was she gonna tell?
“Therefore you must be terribly dull, having dull interests and nothing really to speak of besides your large estate and the money in your vault.”
The lady's eyes winded when she realised what she had said. Keith could practically see the curse on her lip. She curtsied again.
“I beg your pardon….That was so terribly rude of me. As I told you, you would not think highly of me if I talked.” 
Keith, a little shaken, but impressed with her insult, could not hide the smile.
At least his future marriage wouldn't be boring, it would seem. 

With a gesture he extended his elbow to her. With a doubtful look she took it and they promenaded down the path. For a moment it was pure silence, only the sound of the garden and the children further up, and Keith took a moment to enjoy the moment. He could feel Miss McClain fidgeting on his arm. Her cheeks flushed, head down but sometimes she looked up at him ready to say something to him, before manners got the better of her, and she looked down. 
At the end of the walkway he took her hand, and pressed an air light kiss to her gloved knuckles.
“I would like to invite you and your family to lunch tomorrow.“
Miss McClain nodded. 
“Afterwards I am having a small hunting party. I hope your brother enjoys a good hunt.” 
The lady blinked at him like she was not sure she had heard him correctly.
“The party is highly dominated by my own gender, and it would be nice to have female company to lighten the presence.”
“Right.'' After a thought she added. “ I... I mean we would be delighted too.”
“Good. It will also be a brilliant opportunity for you to see the house you will soon be the lady of.”
Another nod. But Keith also saw her swallowing behind that ridiculous lace necklace she was wearing. The whole thing was ridiculous and covered up most of her throat. How did she breathe and talk with that monstrosity on?

“See you tomorrow then.” They had ended the tour at the house, where his stead was waiting. He accepted his horse from a servant, swung up onto it’s saddle and rode home. He needed a chance to see Miss Katherine McClain without her hovering mama and sister a time in the future, to really make note of her. If the verbal slip up from today just was that, then no need to cause distress. But if Miss McClain was as perceptive as she had let on, then Keith needed to be very careful to keep her in the dark, or she may find out something she was not supposed to. At least until they were married and had an heir. After that, they could live separately if that was necessary. He needed to know more.

Chapter Text

Keith waited patiently in front of his house, and had to keep himself from reaching for his gilded pocket watch to consider the time. One thing was for sure. The McClain’s were late. 
His brother only laughed at his discomfort, traitorous as he was, and Keith would not trade him for the world. Shoot him maybe, but never trade.
Takashi, or Shiro in private company, yawned unbothered and looked upwards, his eyes tracing the sky. His right sleeve had been folded and pinned with pristine attendance, but it still did not conceal the fact that the appendix was missing. His face also bore markings from his service to the military, where he had been discharged with honours after his accident in the field that cost his arm, and marred his face for life, but saved most of his battalion's life. It had been their fathers final attempt to straighten Shiro of his “Unnatural tendencies.” Sent his son off to the military for them to beat some sense into his head. Unknowingly to their father, Shiro had met the love of his life there, and lost him in the same battle that cost him his arm. When Shiro finally returned, the old Lord Kogane was long dead and buried, and Keith pulled his brother into his life and business to ensure he was well taken care of and looked after, hoping to mend the pain in his brother's eyes. He was much better now, but there were days that were bleak. As at the moment there was nothing to hint at the unspeakable, as Sir Shiro Kogane hummed a silly tune, with the only purpose to annoy his little brother. 

Behind them, a small selected part of the household was present, as a gesture. Miss Katherine McClain would be introduced to the whole staff after they would be married, and no need to go through the motions twice. 

Kolivan stood proud and right behind Keith. Posture perfect and eyes focused on nothing. He had not moved a muscle, and nearly not blinked for over half an hour they had been waiting. He was the head butler and House steward. When the old steward had passed away, they had tried finding a proper replacement, but no one seemed to be up for the task, and at the time the name Kogane was not regarded in the same high esteem as it was now, and there were very few applicants. In the end Kolivan had deemed all the candidates inadequate and decided to take over the position himself, as he had already taken over the acting role while the seat was vacant. No one had dared to take the position away from him since, and Keith and his household had been smooth running and efficient ever since. 

A step behind Kolivan, Axca was standing behind with her head held high, but Keith could see the tremble in her lip, that meant she was losing her patience. Even though she was the same age as Keith, she had been hired as the housekeeper. 
She was smart, efficient and terrifying, matching well with Kolivan’s cold and stern demeanour, making sure the Kogane household always was fit for royalty. Axca had started her job as a maid but had quickly risen in rank in the time the household was understaffed and underappreciated. She had left her previous position due an “disagreement” with her former employer, and brought with her three other young ladies to work in the Kogane household. 

Lined up and ready to serve were a handful and maids, butlers and valets. A bit to the side stood the grounds keeper Mr. Holt with his children. Mr. Samuel Holt served with Shiro in his battalion and was a great help and support to Shiro during their enlistment. When he was sent home with only a medal and little else, Keith was quick to offer up the groundskeeper job. So the man packed up his family, a wife and two children and went to work the next day. 
The two children could be mirror images, had it nor been for the three years the oldest had on the youngest. Matt Holt had a good two feet on top of his sibling, but he was just as brilliant as the younger one. Pidge was the younger, and had been baptised Katelyn Holt, but never felt an affiliation to the name or the sex they was given. So now they were Pidge. They wore trousers and overalls and worked with their father on the ground, but mostly in the stables. Keith did not mind. He knew Pidge was Pidge, and that was it. In between working with their father, the siblings were coming up with designs and plans for impossible contraptions that could do the most impossible things. Both the Holt children were brilliant, and should have been enlisted in the highest establishment of learning, had it not been for the high tuition money and their low rank in society. Keith had proposed to send both children off with his own money, but Mr. Holt had objected. He could simply not repay such kindness. The children agreed. Instead Keith provided the Holts with the material they needed for their unfondly ideas, and brought every book, dissertation, paper and article Pidge asked for. In turn he sold the successful contraptions to entrepreneurs that could send them out to the world, in trade of getting royalties for himself and the Holts. Pidge was loud and boisterous even with their short stature, but eyes like a hawk and a mind sharp and quick as a whip. Matt was tall and lean, and was the only one who could match up to their sibling’s fast mouth and ingenious mind. He also had a skill for finding out information that should not have been attainable for him. Keith considered them his best of friends, despite their different status. They were part of his household just as much as his brother was. 

The rest of Keith’s hunting party had given up standing out in the sun and had retreated inside after the first ten minutes of nothingness. Mr. Harris was an old associate of his father, and Keith hoped to talk into trade with them again. The man was close to senile but held history and rank for all else. Captain Iverson was a stern, intimidating giant who ran the local  garrison and regiment in town. Always keep on good foot with the locals.

After some time Pidge exclaimed, and a small, but well maintained carriage rolled up the road. Only Keith wondered, contemplating how Mrs. McClain had managed to fit her large family inside. Pidge were almost vibrating, stretching their neck to glimpse inside. Their brother smirked beside them, but both were held to silence with one look from their father.
Keith exhaled and walked down the step to welcome the party. Before the footman Regris could sprint to open the door, the door smacked open and a rather disheveled Miss Katherine McClain, and the nanny from the day before, stumbled out. 
Miss Katherine corrected her bonnet and skirts, before lowering in a perfect curtsy. The nanny mimicked her just behind her.
“My lord.” They both echoed. Regris went rigid next to them not knowing what to do with himself. Keith took pity on the man, and the footman stood back to give Keith room to welcome his guests. 

“You are late.” Were the first words that were out of his mouth. Behind him, he could feel Shiro eying the heavens and asking for strength. So not the Lord’s finest moment, but they had been standing on the steps for more than half an hour.
“Where is your family?” He asked instead, still a tat too hard to be polite. Miss Katherine goes even lower in her curtsy. 
“I beg your pardon, My Lord... Little Nadia fell ill during the night. So my brother and his wife deemed it better to stay and take care of their child. My sister Veronica is a doctor as you may recall, and had to go to town to get the right remedy to help her. Mama was so taken with the whole affair, she had to go lay down ...” There was a light flush to Miss Katherine's cheeks as she tried to look anywhere but her intended. ”But she insisted I go…So here I am.” 
Ashamed over his outburst Keith did feel a little bit put out by his actions, but it was too late to apologise for his words. Instead he said, with the same stern politeness as manners required, “You seem to care a whole deal about your family.”
Miss Katherine rose from curtsy, folded her hands in front of her satin dress, and looked into Keith's eyes with determination and dignity. 
“Family is everything.” There was something over the way she said it. He locked eyes with her and she held his stare. A dauntless, determined woman looked back at him, with magnificent blue eyes. 
Keith shook away this unwelcome feeling of him, realising his rudeness in forgetting to ask for the wellbeing of the ill child in question.. 
“Will your niece be alright?”
Some of the rigidness seemed to leave the lady’s posture, but she still stood like chiselled in marble.
“Of course…..She had too much dessert, and ….. it did not … sit well with her.”
Pigde snorted behind them, and they all turned towards the noise. In the most innocent fashion they looked the other way, as nothing had occurred. 

“Shall we?” 
Keith gestured up the stairs. Miss Katherine nodded, and let him guide her up the staircase for introductions. 

“Fire!” 
Both Holt siblings fell to the ground, as five clay pigeons flew out of the bizarre contraption for the hunting party to hit. Shiro hit one, Keith two, but Mr. Harris and Captain Iverson missed. The machine was the brainchild of the youngest Holt, who roped their brother in as always, and somehow managed Keith to let them test it out on his hunting parting. 
Pidge reasoning was excellent as always, quick as a whip they were, and before Keith had known they were already setting up the device. The main reason was that not five servants would be required to throw pigeons into the air, but also spare the creatures, using clay replicas instead. Keith did not hold any fondness for pigeons in general, but indulged Pidge either way. Pidge did also try to rope them in using a new type of rifle that could fire multiple shots in succession, but the experiment was forfeited when Pidge did a little testing of their own, resulting in the rifle exploding in on itself. So the idea was put on hold for another time. Instead the latest of their endeavours was this peculiar throwing contraption.
Pidge gave the whole party a thurall demonstration and walkthrough, how each cabinet in the apparatus held a clay disk instead of a live pigeon, and using coils, a little gun power, and fiction, they could make a controlled explosion sending the disk flying as birds. Add an adjustable height and angle, and the shot could be altered due to difficulty.
Keith had to admit that the clay pigeons flew much faster, and gave an added exhilaration to the hunt. After the first demonstration where everyone clapped politely, and the men awed at the ingenuity, they sat up on their venture.

A garden table and chairs were brought out, including a parasol so the ladies could watch in appropriate distance, sheltered from the crisp spring sun. They even had a pitcher of refreshing lemonade, a pot of tea and a plate of biscuits and sweets. All accommodated by Axca, so they favoured a ladies sensibilities rather than the char Keith enjoyed for tea. Axca had done an excellent job, and the sweet scent of lavender, sugar and roses, could be smelled even from where the hunting party was stationed. She had done so well, that Keith had a premonition that the lady’s maid Ezor might have a hand in it as well, as Axca was not known for her “sensible female” touch. 
Miss McClain was sitting under the parasol looking rather bored, while her chaperone had fallen asleep. Keith contemplated that the older women must be deaf or hard of hearing to be falling asleep with this much noise around her. 

Shiro chuckled and encouraged Captain Iversson to try the shot again. This time both Keith and Shiro watched as Pidge reloaded, and Matt pulled the cord sending the clay pigeons flying, as Captain Iverson aimed and missed...Horrible.. Multiple times, as all the other gentlemen lent their rifles so the Captain could fire in succession. Kolivan and Thace stood by, reloading the weapons. 
Keith felt rather than heard the noise of the foreboding storm. Miss McClain had unfolded her fan with more force than grace, and was fanning herself, despite the mild weather. With each missed shot from Captain Iverson, the fanning seemed more frantic. Even though Keith did not look back, the rhythmic flicking sound, grew more and more, so it even reached the gentleman's sport. 
After another round of misfire, Captain Iverson grumbled, verbally doubting the ability of the Holt siblings' instrument, as it clearly made it impossible to hit anything. Keith was gonna jump to the siblings' defense, Pidge also seemed to want to give Iverson a piece of their mind, if Matt hadn't gapped them, but before any of them could do anything, a small cough interrupted them.

The group turned to a awaiting Miss McClain that looked expectantly at them. 
“Can I have a try?” She asked innocently, twirling her fan coyly. Keith hesitated trying to come up with a polite answer, while Captain Iversson burst out laughing, grabbing his stomach as voluminous tremors of laughter shook his body. Miss McClain's nose wrinkled at the man’s display, Keith noticed with only docile interest. 
“You ?…..With all due respect, ‘my lady’” The title was given with a condescending sneer, and Keith saw the tiniest twitch at Miss McClain’s fan. ”Weapons are not for women.”
“You do no think I can hit anything?” The dazzling smile on Miss McClain's lips was distracting, and made the blow towards Captain Iverson even more sweeter. 
“With all due respect. It would seem that you sir, was also not hitting anything. Or was that one of my imagination.” 
Iverson’s laughter dried up like sand in his mouth.
“It is the dastardly machine's fault. Makes it impossible to hit anything.” He gestured to the Holt’s and their machine. 
With another coy smile Miss Katherine tilted her head perkly at the Captain. 
“Then there is no chance of me hitting anything, is there?” The gentlemen held their breath at the sudden command in the young woman’s voice. “So let me try…….. If you please.”
After a moment, Captain Iverson found his voice, and managed not to stutter as he uttered a serious impassive, “No.”

But Miss Katherine did not let herself squander easily. As the men started to go back to their previous conversation, she interrupted them with a simple clearing of her throat.  
”How about a wager?”
Captain Iverson eyed the lady up and down with newfound interest. Keith could see the old clockwork trying to turn, inside the massive head of his.
“It is awfully dull to sit and watch you gentlemen play with your rifles. If I can hit one, when we pack up, and leave.“
The wager amused the Captain and he hummed at the lady to continue.
“If not, you can continue to shoot to your heart's content, and I will sit back and watch, admitting that you are the most impressive of marksmen and that I, a woman, was so dreadfully wrong to doubt you..”
After he looked around the rest of the hunting party for approval, Iverson grunted his response. “I do not see the harm.”

“Can I have all five rifles ready please?” She asked Keith with big round blue eyes. Keith could not find fault with that, and turned to Kolivan who nodded. Keith then nodded to Miss McClain, and they took up positions. The rifles were handed to Kolivan and his man, so they were ready to hand to Miss McClain, like they had done with Captain Iverson, but none believed she would need more than one shot, before the targets would be gone. Keith handed Miss Katherine his own rifle, and started to instruct her how to hold the weapon, and about the different parts, but Miss McClain flipped the firearm a couple of times, inspected the weapon with professionalism, like one seasoned with such artillery, and took aim. 
“Fire!” She shouted, startling everybody, much so that Matt in reflex pulled the trigger, and let the targets fly. 

Keith watched open mouthed as Miss McClain hit target upon target, switching and handing the five rifles to Kolivan, who gave her new loaded ones, she immediately fired to hit the target. The last clay pigeon was flying low and had almost hit the ground, when the last resounding blast from the rifle, and the pigeon exploded from the impact. There was disstressed shriek from behind them as Miss McClain's companion fell from her chair. Five combined blasts from the rifles were apparently enough to disrupt her from her slumber. 
The gentlemen turned flabbergasted to Miss McClain, who handed her last riffle to Kolivan and thanked the man. They watched as Kolivan handed her back her fan, and she walked resolutely back to the house, her distressed governess fast on her heels. 
Captain Iverson was turning blue in the face, while the Holt siblings burst into laughter, slapping each other in congratulation on the success of their contraption. Keith's eyes were still frozen on the ladies swindling forms. 
“Impressive.” Shiro breathed under his breath, and Keith could only agree. 

After gathering himself Keith and the rest of the party trotted back to the house, only to see the McClain party leaving. Keith rushed up the stairs to see Axca hand Miss McClain her travelling cloak. 
“You are departing already.” He asked politely, a little stakered from the brisk walk across the grounds.
“Yes I think it is for the best.” Was the response. Her voice had turned small and coy once more, nothing like the confident challenge it had been earlier. 
Keith looked to the side to see the governess hovering nearby, displeased and upset as she bored her eyes into her charge’s skull, making the woman bow her head lower. 
“If I may…”
The women halted on the way out the door, just as the gentlemen were coming up.
“How did you learn to shoot like that? Have you had training?” The thought had baffled him, but that was the only theory that could explain Miss Katherine McClain’s excellent marksmanship.
“Lord Kogane. I grew up with two older brothers, and a twin. If you think this is the first time I have held a weapon you must be a fool.”
The governess gasped, but Miss Katherine was already walking down the grand stairs, cloak swishing dramatically behind her. Keith looked after her with new found respect.

Chapter Text

Lance collapsed on the chair next to his twin’s bed exhausted and utterly defeated. He had crumbled under the torturous lecture his mama had put him through. Of course Nancy had not been able to keep her silence and reported back to mama, the instant they returned. His mama had shouted from her settee, dapping her forehead with a handkerchief, coning at him that he was going to be the would be the reason for their downfall in society. Veronica had been sitting next to their mama, lightly patting her hand, but sending Lance the same disappointed eyes. To sum up the conversation, Mrs. McClain did not approve of her offspring's liberties at the hunting party, and forbade Lance as much as looking at a weapon until his own children had grandchildren. Lance tried to interrupt but mama shooed him away, asking the heavens why he had so intellectually challenged children.   
After the disastrous promenade the day before where Lance had insulted Lord Kogane multiple times to his face, his mother would make sure that Lance would stay as tight lipped as if she had sewn his mouth shut herself. That was of course until Nadia fell ill, and his mama fell onto her coach like she had been the one with the stomach ache, but it was only due to her poor nerves. Veronica had to go to town to get the remedy for Nadia, and more smelling salt for mama, as she was slowly but steadily making her way through their supply. But still no no, Lance was not allowed to cancel with the Lord, god forbid, and must be sent off to save their face in front of the hunting party. But even Nancy’s interference was not enough to keep Lance in row. His mother withered on the spot, when Nancy recalled Lance’s actions to mama.

With a sigh Lance lay his cheek against his sister's covers, and reached for her hand. 
“How did your outing go today?” Kat asked. Her voice weak and frail. 
“Utterly terrible…” Lance muttered into the bed sheet. He tilted his head so his sister could remove the pins in the wig. She gently removed and disposed of it on a wig rest next to her. Lance clawed at the lace at his throat, and after a couple of tries managed to lose it. 
“Yes. Mama sounded terribly disappointed.” Kat answered in a light manner. She had properly heard every single profanity their mama had in her repertoire, laying snugly in her bed, while mama carried on two floors down.
With a huff Lance lifted up his dress, and turned his back to his sister, as she undid the tight laces on his back with experienced fingers. Lance sighed with relief as wonderous air once more filled his lungs. He wiggled out of the contraption and pulled the dress down once more over his unmentionables, to look at least presentable. Not that he had ever felt the need to look presentable over for Katherine. She was his mirror image. She had seen him all, and knew it all. There were no secrets between them. They were each other's confidant and secret keepers. They had run around naked together as toddlers, played in the mud and fought with swords made out of sticks. At the time being the youngest children mama had let them have much more freedom than the rest of her children, and Nancy was more a playmate than a governess, as mama focused her time on preparing Veronica for entry into society and husband hunting. The twins were so much alike that even mama had trouble telling them apart. In the younger days they would switch clothes and attend each other's lessons as the other, and none in the household would notice, until well after dinner, or even the next day. Mama and papa had found it endearing at the time. And mama had squeezed her children's cheeks and called them clever Silly Billie's. Despite all their mother’s folly, she loved her family and her children. But as papa discovered more of his late fathers affairs and accounts, mama got more and more tight to fit the tightening budget. The prank became less endearing and more of an annoyance. It also became harder and harder for the twins to take each other's place. While Katherine grew round and pretty, Lance shot up like a tree and became lanky and uncoordinated. Their mama declared at the dinner table one night that she hoped he would grow out of it, or else no woman would want him for a husband. He was too brash and loud, too opinionated, and being the youngest not very preferable in comparison to his brothers, so the family would have to hope for quick engagement so any potential fiance would not manage to bail out last minute when they saw Lance's true nature. Lance had cried himself to sleep that night, wishing he had been pretty like his twin. He was normally very confident of himself, unless he was compared with her, where he was somehow always at fault.
He woke up with Katherine wrapped around him, as she had stroked his hair and dried his tears away. After that, he spent a week as Katherine, enjoying tea with mama and her friends, embroidering, gathering flowers, reading books and receiving compliments from their visitors about his pretty blue eyes, and how he would make a fine wife one day. 
And Katherine. 
Kat had spent the week riding with Luis, shooting with their papa, and studying for a school she would never set foot in. 
Their ruse was discovered when “Lance” got a coughing fit at dinner, that ended in a coughed up blood on a handkerchief, and with Luis holding back a distraught “Katherine”. After that Mama forbad them from ever switching places again. Until of course it suited her purposes like at the present. They had been thirteen at the time.

“Captain Iverson was attending.” Lance said with regret. 
“Oh…….” Kat nodded and understood. She always understood him. She ran her hands through Lance’s short brown hair, pulling at the ends to make his natural hair curl at his ears. Lance huffed with distain.
“I am just lucky he never gave me the time of day back in school, or else he would surely have recognized me by now.”
Kat’s fingers halted and her mouth tightened in a line unlike their mama. Back when he was Mr. Iverson, he had been an instructor back in their school days, where all the young boys went to the garrison for basic military training and marksmanship trials. That way Mr. Iverson could spot potential recruits and decide who to trick into a military career. That was how Marco was enlisted.
“Yes lucky, he thinks nothing more of you, than a lousy lazy squint who spent his time with his head in the cloud with no future down here on god's green earth. “
Lance gave his sister an unimpressed look, but she just gave him a sly smile and rolled her eyes at him. Captain Iverson never believed or cared for Lance. 
“What did you do?” Katherine sighed.
“I shot and hit five targets, and he hit none.”
First Kat did nothing, then she snorted and started laughing. 
“What I would have done to see his shocked face.” She laughed and laughed, and Lance could not help his own smile as his sister dapped her eyes from tears of sheer laughter. He appreciated these moments, where they could pretend that there was no sickness and his sister just rested. Those moments were few these days. But of course it did not last, and before long Katherine was coughing and her eyes watering. Lance reached out to her, and gave her a glass of water. Running a soothing hand up and down her arm, and she coughed into a handkerchief. They both held their breath as they looked at its content. No blood.
This time. 

“But still..” Katherine said after a moment. “Maybe not the best course of action.”
“It was so agonizing. How do you live like this? Just sitting and watching.“
“Indeed, It is a ladies nature to observe and look pleasing to the eye.”
“Oh please. You would have done the same.”
Another unladylike snort from his sister. 
“No, I would have not, because unlike you I am a proper lady.”
Lance mirrored her snort from earlier. The exact same noise, as had they been made by the same person. Katherine shook her head lightly at his jest. She sighed and rested back against her many pillows.
“Still. You were always the best of us. There never was a sharp shooter quite like you.”
“And here I thought my nickname was the tailor.” Lance winked.
Katherine smiled. She despised needle work that mama had forced on her as part of her lessons to become a lady. When mama was not looking, Katherine would slip her canvas into Lance's room, and Lance would finish the embroidery in the evening alone in his chamber, only for their mama to praise Katherine to the clouds the next day on her perfect stitches. Katherine had started calling him the nickname after that. A little part of her was quite jealous of his skills, but that did not stop her from giving him all her embroidery just to get mama off her back. Then Lance went to school, Katherine had to come up with new excuses, why she was not quite in the mood for embroidery. 

“And how is our fiance?” 
Lance rolled his eyes at her. Kat had started calling Lord Kogane ‘their fiance’ right after Lance had tried on his first dress. Lance had berillered her for it, but Kat had reasoned that they used to share everything. 
“For the last time, he is not my fiance. He is yours. I am just keeping him occupied, until we can get you back on your flawless legs again.“ His twin smiled again, at Lance dramatics tittering portly. “Is he not though?”
She got a far look in her eyes as she leaned further into her pillows.
“That was he like today?”
“As usual. Tall, dark, imperfect, handsome and mysterious, but also as usual incredibly rude. I wonder if he likes to be out in public much.“ Lance rested his head in his palm as he pondered the Lord's stern eyes from memory. 
“You have to watch your words around him.” Katherine poked Lance on the nose with her petite finger. Lance sighed.
“I know. I do try. Really try. I do not want your marriage to be unhappy, and make him despise you, just because he thinks me foolish and daft.” A twinkle shone in Katherine’s eyes.
“But you are quite daft.”
“Thank you sister dear.” Lance huffed unimpressed with his sister's humour. She sighed dreamily, closing her eyes.
“Tell me what he looks like again”

Lance shook his head, but smiled nevertheless.
“I have told you more times than I would like.” Katherine loved to hear about the Lord's perfect features, as she sighed into her pillows and dreamed of her nuptials and rose red life as a married woman married to the perfect man. Lance envied her dream.
“But you will tell me again.”
Lance sighed, but nodded at his sister's eagerness. The Lord was wonderfully handsome, so much in fact that it annoyed Lance by the bare thought of it. The Lord seemed too good to be true. 
“He has a handsome face. Sharp angular features, a well formed nose, and thin lips. He wore a red coat over a burgundy waistcoat and his fair, charcoal hair was tied back with a single red band.” Lance tried not to imagine how soft those lips had felt over his glove, or imagine how it would feel on his skin. Lord Kogane was handsome true, but it was his eyes that stole Lance's breath away. Every time they landed on him, Lance simply forgot how to breathe. The dark orbs seemed almost purple in some of the lights, even more when he talked to the elder brother. They watched everything. Noted everything like a hawk. Intriguing and intense. The Lord had a scar on his right cheek, but somehow it made him seem even more roguish handsome, Lance supposed some would seem. Impeccable manners, hard working, great with a rifle, yes Lance had noticed, strong like an ox. It seemed like the man could do no wrong. No wonder why it was so hard for men like Lance to find a willing woman to marry, when the likes of Lord Keith Kogane walked around stealing all the hearts of the young maidens. Lance hoped that the man had some sort of defect, or his own perception of his own manliness seemed to flicker in comparison to the rude but impeccable Lord. For Kat’s sake Lance hoped the man was all what he seemed and more. But he was also terribly rude. Lance had meant what he had told the Lord. He was the perfect gentleman. But his pride had built up the Lord’s wall’s too tall, Lance wondered if one person would ever be able to penetrate them, and if one even wanted to. Who knew what Lord Keith Kogane kept hidden behind his fortress walls.
If the two of them had been at school together Lance would have taken one look at the Lord and his perfectly straight nose, and pointed eyebrows and wanted to start a fight. Take the man down a peg, to show him that he was no better than the others, just because he had a fancy title, and shouldering eyes. Their rivalry could have been glorious. It was all of little matter now as his family depended on the Lord’s favour and money. 

When Lance had left the party, the Lord had looked, dare Lance think, almost disappointed. Lance could not imagine why. Normally men enjoyed their own company more, when the ladies left to their own company. The tone could be more free, more boustrous than in female society, bless one insulting their delicate sensibilities. Growing up as the youngest, he had heard the stories from his older brothers. But then again, he also grew up with Veronica. And her sensibilities would not be flustered by the talks of men. She herself could easily make the whole shooting party shake in their fancy boots. Lance chuckled at the bare thought. He looked down at his twin, who had fallen asleep, and he leaned over to plant a soft kiss on her forehead before slipping away.
In his own room he changed into night clothes and slipped under the covers. He wondered if the Lord and him could ever be friends one day. Not as Katherine and Lord Kogane, but as Lance and Lord Kogane. They could go on hunting trips together, jest at Katherine’s newest folly, smoke cigars and drink cognac and discuss life as a high ranking working man, recalling the folly of their youth as free men before marriage, while their wifes carried on in the salon next door. But most possibly Lance would be prohibited from entering the Lord’s sight the moment he would be married to Katherine, to ensure the Lord did not make a connection between the siblings and discover their mama’s plot. If Lance had any skill the Lord would be so infatuated with his new wife that he would never acknowledge Lance's presence in the room, even if Lance stood right in front of the man. The thought made Lance inside churn. He was getting worked up for nothing. The Lord was marrying Katherine and Lance could give a damn if the Lord accepted Lance or not, as long as the Lord did right by Katherine.
With that matter decided Lance turned on his side to chase sleep, only to be lulled to sleep thinking of purple intense eyes boring into his soul.  

Chapter Text

The valet looked confused as Lance scowled at him, from his seat in the floral sofa, surrounded by silk pillows. Across him, mama halted her needle work, her eyes going wide as saucers, and Veronica squeaking beside her, sending Lance pointed looks across over the tea tray. Luis looked back towards them after having pretended to look outside the garden through the glass windows a couple of paces away, giving the illusion of polite privacy. But Lance knew his ears were peaked, inheriting the precise hearing from their mama. 

“I beg your pardon.” The valet blinked, trying to keep his indifferent professional mask, but it was cracking. They looked down at the box he was extending towards Lance, eyes flicking between the box and the fiance in disguise.
“I said, you can take it back.” Lance said slowly in his lady voice, which he had now perfected to mimic Katherine’s melodious tones, enough that he could now spew the venom he was seething. 
His mama turned a sort of bloomish colour, and said there would be ‘no need for such a thing’. Lance huffed ignoring his mama, and put down his tea cup. 
“This is not a gift. This is bribery.” 
The valet blinked again, astonished by Lance’s brash words. Out of the peripheral of his vision, he could see his mama shutter, and gripping the upholstery for support. Lance was not inclined to help her at the moment. The anger was burning though his body, filtering out such unnecessary things as manners. Lord Kogane was trying to buy his sister's favour with gifts. A diamond encrusted necklace rested on a pillow in the valet’s box, it’s precious stones catching the sunlight from the windows, and reflecting every mirror surface in the room. From the mirror over the fireplace, to the glass protecting the books from dust near the end wall, and to the precious silverware and tea set.
Was this the Lord's standard practice, to get away from responsibility with extravagant gifts, because he was too bothered to show up himself? Was this what it would be like for Katherine in the future? A house full of lavish gifts, jewels and riches, but an absent husband, who did as he pleased, in a big, empty house. All alone. 
The gift twinkled mocking back at Lance. They were supposed to meet to get better acquainted, to better understand each other under careful watch of Lance’s family so no indecencies would occur. The Lord had instead sent a valet with a large extravagant necklace, with no explanation of the Lord's absence, that he would not be calling. 

“The Lord, have better things to do than seeing me. This is his excuse. I do not care for it.“
His mama sprung up from her seat and made a scene, in which Lance leaned back in his seat, cold and unwildering while his mama insisted on keeping the gift. He would hear of his behavior later, but Lance was stubborn and set in his ways.
Luis interfered in place of Lance's dead silence, and even Veronica made a fuss. The poor valet stood unfaltering from his post caught in the middle of it. 
In the end his mother won, and demanded he keep the necklace after the valet had left. Even though they could have sold it off, and probably paid off half of Katherine’s medical bills, his mama was unweathering, standing proud and tall, inspiring fear in her offspring as if they had been mere children.  
“Nonsense.” She scolded, making Luis squirm under her piercing glare. ”The Lord will maybe like to see Katherine wear them after they are married. Remind them of their time of blooming bliss in their early stages of courtship.” Lance bit his lip to say that there was no blooming courtship as the relation was politics and gain for both parties. But his mother trumped all once more.
So the necklace stayed. 
It mattered not that Lance would never be able to wear it now, as he could not combine it with his lace chokers. The necklace would do nothing to hide his very male Adam's apple. His mama would not allow such a fashion disaster. They may live outside the city, but they are not peasants. His mother prattled on joyously in their success in securing such a rich husband, turning around the room, while Lance sat with the open box in his lap, staring down at the jewels. Veronica put away the smelling salt she kept on hand if their mother escalated into fits, and Luis nodded like a good son, when Mrs. McClain patted his cheek. The stones shone like stars, taunting Lance’s very existence.
So Lance just stared back at the stones, as they taunted him, knowing he would never wear anything so pretty or precious, no matter how much it would please the atrocious Lord Kogane. 

Later that night Lance leaned over and lifted the lid of the box to let Katherine see the light play the large stones in the necklace. 
“It matches your eyes.” He said to her, as she received the box. She made an unladylike noise that mama would sneer at. 
“We have the same eyes.” She snorted, lightly bumping her twins with her elbow. “It would look wonderful on you. I think my collar bone would stick out too much.” 
Lance rolled his eyes at Katherine, and reached over to help her with the box, placing it on a table.
“You are quite the jester today mhh? You must be feeling much better. Before long you will be running circles around me again.” His sister’s smile vanished from her small mouth. Lance looked from her to the night table beside her, where an untouched small vile stood. Kat looked the other way, squinting her eyes, ignoring the small bottle. A cold chill settled in the pit of Lance's stomach. He softly took his sister's hand, but she refused to look at him. He reached past her, his big hands gripping the small vile, holding it in front of Katherine with an accusing glint that could rival his mama.
“Lance…” She begged softly, tears in her eyes, but Lance shook his head tenderly.
“Here. Take it. You know how Ronnie gets if she finds you have been cheating on your draught.“ She shook her own head, refusing and leaning further away from the potion.
“It makes me so dizzy. I would rather not.” 
Lance patted her hand again, urging her. They both knew that the potion made her sluggish and unresponsive, making her sleep for hours on end, but it also kept the fainting and blood coughing at bay. Katherine feared that one day she would take it and simply not awake once more. 
“Please Kat…”  
Katherine still refused to look at the vile, but Lance kept urging her, whispering sweet pleads into her hand. With a resigned huff, she let him administer the draught. 
“Alright.”

Lance kissed his sister's forehead and helped her get more comfortable in the bed. He straightened a pillow here, and smoothed out a wrinkled blanket there, before sitting back at his sister's vanity, opening one of the letters he brought with him. 
He thought his sister had fallen asleep, when her breathing got heavy and deep, but with the last bit of awareness she enquired after him. 
“Are you reading your letters?” Her left eye was half open and droopy. 
“Yes.” Lance hummed. Katherine smiled despite sleep trying to overcome her.
“How is dear James these days?” There was no question who the letters were from. Only one person sent Lance correspondence these days.
“Hunk.” Lance corrected, a bit irritated that his sister refused to use the familiar nickname for their oldest friend. But no, the moment Kat came out into society it was suddenly, Mr. this, Sir That and none of the familiarity Lance was used to. Lance yawned, and lifted the letter
closer to the candle to better read its contents.
”It is better than first expected, considering he was thrown out by our dear mama.” Lance sighed. Katherine made a dismissing noise, and Lance rolled eyes at her aghast.

  James “Hunk” Garret was Lance's best friend in the whole world. They had grown up together in this house on these grounds. Mrs. Garret had worked in the kitchens and little James had grown up playing with the twins, as the other McClain children had been almost considered adults, when the twins were born. Lance and James had shared secrets, played in the mud in the garden, raced across the yard scaring the chickens, and roughhoused in the creek, with their stature of their birth never being a barrier. James got taken under apprenticeship in the stable under the late Mr. McClain, and soon after that James and Lance spent their days racing after each other on horsebacks as well.  As the boys grew, Lance rose in height, and so did James, but also the other boy grew in bulk, earning him the fond nickname ‘Hunk’ Lance gave him. Soon after he refused to respond to any other name.
Sadly after Mr. McClain’s passing Lance’s mama had not found it possible to keep Hunk on. She terminated his employment and sent him out of the house to Lance’s great despair. Lance himself had been at school, and was not able to prevent the event. Instead he sent Hunk the little he had saved from his library assistant job, to help him get lodging, while his friends found a new employment. Lucky Hunk’s mother had passed years ago so she would not bear witness to such sadness. 

Still Lance and Hunk kept in contact as Hunk travelled and searched after work. Last Lance had heard of him, he was in a boarding house only two towns over. There he met the love of his life. A laundress named Miss Shay Balmara, and Hunk had been love sick ever since. 
“Had he finally napped her yet.” An interested humm sounded from the bed. Lance decided to tease her, even though there was no doubt about her inquiry. 
“Who..?” He smirked as he looked for parchment to write a reply for his old friend.
“The beautiful lady Shay.” Katherine muttered breathless from the bed, sleep making her voice drowsy and round.
Lance skimmed the content of the letter over. Normally he would sometimes read the correspondence out loud to his sister, but tonight she seemed already too tired for such endeavor.  
“He had… Oh he had. The old dog finally got her. They are getting married next month.” Lance triumphed. He could not hide his own grin with the bare thought of such happiness for his friend. Poor Hunk was well in time for some good fortune. A quiet squeal of joy from his sister echoed his sentiment. 
“I knew he could win over that dreadful brother of hers. Oh, they're gonna strike such a handsome pair. Their children will be so charming.” 
Of course Katherine could only think of the future children. She always thought of children. Ever since their brother had started producing his own brood, that had swept over their household like a storm, Katherine has been enchanted and wanted an even  larger warren than her own mama. A dream she still held close to her heart in her sick bed. Lance had not dared to tell her that her future husband Lord Kogane, did not seem to hold children in high esteem, and would probably only lay with her to produce enough heirs to secure his legacy. But he did not dare to break Katherine’s romantic fantasies of marital bliss, with a home full of small feet. Another dreadful fear was if Katherine would even be able to bear children in her poor condition. Lance banished such terrifying and imprudent  thoughts from his mind and focused back to Hunk’s upcoming nuptials.  
“At the church at Qitan. That is not far from here. Katherine, do you think I could sneak out to participate?” But his question was only met with a light snore. The draught had finally done its job and claimed her to sleep. 
Lance shook his head, and read through his letters again. Smiling in the low candle light, wishing the best for his friend. Later when the candle had burned low he was simply too exhausted to climb down the stairs to his own room he shared with Marco when he was home. But Marco was back with his battalion, earning money to help the family. So the room was very empty, and cold. Lance could barely breathe, when he was laying alone in his bed there again. Not even the feeling thought of the Lord, that now felt him with hot aversion was enough.  
He pulled at Kat’s covers and lay down next to her, not quite touching her. Even in sleep, she felt him, and she reached out for him. He held her hand as he let dreams dwell over him. 

The Lord was a stubborn creature, with too much pride to be tasteful.
Two more necklaces appeared as gifts the following week. Lance knew what they were meant for. Distractions to keep Lance's family happy, while the Lord was absent, probably tending matters that he thought was more important than spending time with his fiance. Mama adored them and kept them all, even as Lances rejected them all to the valet's face.  
There are pretty and delegate things, one finer and the other. They were the most beautiful things Lance had ever laid eyes on. Lance refused to send a note of thanks or even acknowledgement back to the Lord in return, which made his mama possibly vivid. But Lance would sit through her entire triad again and again rather than buy into a game of an arrogant self important fob.

Chapter Text

Another week passes and the Lord himself stands at their door carrying another necklace. He was impeccably dressed, and his dark hair shone in the light, making Lance’s heart twitter if it was not for his grim demeanor and awful scowl.
They sat in the sitting room, with mama and Luis peaking through the doors as the Lord handed over the brilliant piece himself. It was silver with large drops of sapphire, surrounded by diamonds. It made Lance speechless just looking at it in the low light from the candles and mirrors. Aghast by his own reaction, Lance snapped the lip closed in the Lord's face. The Lord was unaffected by his brash behaviour and offered Lance his arm as they walked to the dining room to join the others. The anger had not resided, but rather imploded now that the man was in Lance’s home, and only fueled the animosity Lance held for the man. The Lord has still not offered explanations of his absence, or an apology. He just strode into the estate and japed the box at Lance like he had been an errand boy, sent by his master, hardly conceiving his displeasure. Lance even infuriated, had better manners than that, and had nodded curtly at the Lord's entrance showing him to the sitting room before dinner. 

Now they sat across from each other, and Lance sipped his soup prettily like his mama had instructed, without spilling as much as a drop. It was a bit of an accomplishment if Lance had to say himself, for despite his own spite and embering distaste, the Lord spent most the meal glaring at Lance’s throat, which were bare of jewels and hidden behind a thick layer of lace. The Lord continued to do so while he participated in little to no conversation other than polite tit bits. Every time Lance looked up, the Lord looked the other way, and Lance felt the tiniest bit ashamed as a natural blush colored his cheek. He blamed the heat of the room, and that he could not at this moment bear the sight of the man before him.
With graceful movements, he was quick to cover the complexion with strategic dap of his embroidered napkins. His grandfather's seal mocked back at him. 

They took tea in one of the parlours. Most of Lance's party sat in the nearby room, while the Lord sat opposite Lance with a tea tray between them. Even Mr. Takashi Shirogane Kogane had joined Lance’s family. Mama said she would give them some privacy, but Lance knew that her eyes and ears were on high alert to listen in and make sure her son did ruin them all.
It was rather awkward and tiresome, as Lance did not know what to say to hold the conversation going. If he spoke too much, his real voice may be more vibrant and easier to wind up their ruse, but if he is too silent the Lord might be offended by his poor manners. 
By this point, Lance’s temper had been dampened by the cumbersome atmosphere, even if the Lords have no plans on explaining his recent activities. With a sigh, Lance decided to give the Lord the benefit of the doubt to explain himself later, perhaps when they are truly alone, instead of just judging him on his recent behaviour. He did show himself in the end. 
The Lord's scrawl deepened as the evening progressed. Before Lance could make an inquiry, the Lord said, “Horses.” 
His voice was stern like the words have been forced out. Lance blinked perplexed at him, and unintentionally reached out for one of the curls of his ear.
“My lord?” 
The Lord nodded sternly. “Do you ride?” 
It took a moment for Lance to grasp that the Lord was trying to make conversation. Lance gripped the subject fiercely. Holding on to it like a lifeline.
“Yes, I am very fond of riding my Lord.” 
“Then perhaps we shall take a ride one day.” That surprised Lance. So the Lord did intend to spend time with his future wife. A small comfort.
“I would like that very much my Lord, but ….” Lance tried to come up with an excuse so he avoids riding sidesaddle. Lance was a very much adapted rider, but not in a skirt or riding sidesaddle. “My horse is very poorly. She is not fit for riding these days.”
The Lord dismissed Lance's concerns with a flick of his wrist. “You shall lend one of my horses then.” He decided, finishing the conversation.
“His lordship is too kind.” Lance tries to sound demure and not spit the words out between gritted teeth. The man had no thought for anything other than his own comfort and wishes.

Out of the corner of Lance’s eye, he sensed movement. He looked towards the other room where his mama was sending him pointed looks behind a fan. Resigned Lance accepted the possibility for another tiresome evening, where he had to keep the conversation going for appearances sake.
“Do his lordship read?” 
The man across from him huffed indignantly, making a gruff sound.
“Yes of course. One has to be well read to run a business.” He said in obvious fashion. Lance smiled carefully, ignoring the pang of annoyance sprouting through him.
“I do mean for pleasure and entertainment.” Lance said in a sing-song voice, trying to mimic his sister’s soothing and calming voice. Still the Lord puffed up like a porcupine, all needles and spite.
“No I do not. I have no time for frivolous exploits as fiction. “
Lance frowned. This man’s head was as thick as a landing post, and even ruder. If it was not for his money, Lance would have sent him packing. Or punched him. Still considering so, in fact.
“I take it you do?“ The Lord's tone was quieter, more calculated, as he looked Lance up and down. Lance had to reject the impulse to make sure his wig was fasted alright under the intense stare.
“Yes I do.” Lance sipped his tea, trying not to wince. He got an idea. “In fact I quite enjoy it.” If The Lord did not enjoy conversing, Lance would do it for them, even if he risked his real voice coming fourth. It would maybe even annoy the Lord, and in this moment Lance could think of nothing better than to annoy the other man. 
So the Lord did not read books, but Lance did. He started reading them for Katherine to entertain her while she was in bed, but then continued to for his own leisure, captivated by the words and stories taking him far far away from his home, to worlds beyond his reach. So he started talking, and talking and talking. And he did not stop. He could feel his mama getting fainter by the minute. He waited for her teacup to crash, when she evidently would fall over in a fainting spree, but it did not come to that. Still the Lord did not spare a word, as Lance prattled on, first in spite then because he loved to talk about his books. None of his siblings wished to discuss the subject with him, so Lance rarely got this kind of opportunity. The Lord to Lance’s surprise did not interrupt him, and even asked for more details in some phases, which sent Lance in for another cacophony of words. If it was not for the dim lighting Lance could have sworn that the Lord was smiling slightly at him, but it had to be a trick of the light and Lance's imaginative mind. Lance even had to admit that he enjoyed their time together after prattling on about books. Then they got to talking about the Holts, after Lance compared a character from his latest book to them, and suddenly the Lord was even contributing. That led to discussion of firearms, somehow without mentioning the incident with the hunting party. Then horses, and Lance had to stop himself from smiling, even as he genuinely had come to enjoy their conversation. It was almost like Lance could imagine the two of them sitting in a gaming parlour back at his school as two young men discussing interests and not as two potential spouses. Then the corset reminded Lance if he spoke too fast or moved too hastily, that that was not the case. The Lord took his leave an hour later after sharing bandy with Luis and Mr. Shirogane and then left in the night in his carriage. Lance ignored his mama and walked up to check on Katherine, avoiding the shrill of his mama’s wrath. No matter what he did, he could never seem to please her.

Three days later the Lord stood unabashed in their living room once more, this time alone and without company. Lance had been practicing his manners under Veronica’s strict eye, and was sitting stiffly in a dress and wig when the Lord arrived. The family watched from the side wings, looking the other way, as the Lord presented Lance with a small box. The ribbon was soft and silky as he pulled at it with shaking hands. It was a bracelet. A dainty little thing, with a couple precious gemstones in between. It was simple, and a far cry from the necklaces presented to him on earlier occasions. He thanked the Lord this time and he meant it. Lance even dared to say the Lord looked pleased at the notion. Then he pulled fourth a larger package and handed it over without a word. Lance received it in confusion and carefully removed the wrapper, while his family made their way inside, thinking The Lord was finishing up to leave. Lance squealed in delight, surprising the entire sitting room as he held up two books. It was the two next iterations in a series that Lance had excessed about in their conversation earlier this week. Lance had stumbled on the book in his grandfather’s library and had been enthralled by its contents in early childhood. The first book, ended in a rather exciting cliffhanger, but Lance had been unsuccessful in securing it’s successor since it was such an old volume published when his grandfather was a young man. That the Lord had listened and even remembered, but also went to the extent to secure such a find for his future bride was extraordinary. Lance fell into an abundance of thanks, as he opened the book, and touched the old paper, instilled with the sensation. The Lord nodded content and then left as he had business matters to attend to. Lance saw him out and thanked him again. He was even rewarded with a smile from the Lord as they said their goodbyes. 

The moment the Lord and his horse were out of sight, his mama tried to siege the books claiming they could be sold off for a profitable price. Here Lance stood his ground and refused his mama, making her try to drag Luis into the discussion. His brother was agreeable and luckily on Lance's side and refused to sell the books or force them from Lance’s grip, claiming it to be more fuss than worth. Mama fretted her lip quivering in anger. It was clear she thought books, especially fictional ones, were no appropriate courting gift.  

In the evening after Lance had tugged Kat in, he showed her the bracelet. She blinked through her drowsy eyes and called it pretty. Lanced sighed, kissed her forehead, and went over to sit at her vanity, finishing up a letter to Hunk, while the bracelet rested in its box on top of the sapphire's necklace’s case by the mirror. His precious books were stowed away in his own room, away from his mama’s condemning glare. Katherine had never appreciated the series as Lance did, and gifted him the books, as they were righteous hers in the first place. The boxes filled with the Lord’s bribery, now kept catching his eyes as he tried to write. He put down his quill and opened the smallest box. 
With slowness, he plucked the simplest piece from the box and slid it over his thin wrist. It looked odd against his skin, but it fit neatly and made his hand and fingers look longer than they were. 
Lance tilted his head inspecting the sight.

He had never worn jewellery. His dad's rings had been handed down to Luis and Marco. There was nothing left for Lance to have. Lance had instead inherited his father's favourite pistol and encyclopedia.
Items that were next to nothing worth beside the sentimental values for Lance, and thereby deemed safe to give to the youngest, instead of selling them off to pay off the debt. He studied the bracelet and watched it catch the light from the single lit candle. He held it up closer to inspect it. In the corner of his eye, he saw the larger box. The box with the necklace.
He looked back at his sister, but she slept steadily away undisrupted. She was taking her drought again, and it helped but she slept so much more. He looked back breathless at the box again and bit his lip, before he reached within and pulled up the delicate piece of jewellery. It was stunning, and as Katherine noted once more, did match his eyes. He bit his lip again, considering but did not decide against it. He pulled at his nightshirt, opening it further to make room around his neck, before he slipped the jewellery around his neck, and just watched it in the mirror. One of his shoulders of the nightdress came loose, and fell off his shoulder, giving the illusion of a sleeveless white gown. He stared into the mirror. Katherine looked back at him, showing off her pretty shoulders, and fancy jewellery. The bracelet and the jewel catching the lights and making it dance in the mirror. Hopefully the Lord would be pleased to see her wearing the jewellery he chose for her. But she faltered. And the necklace almost slipped out of Lance's grasp, and Lance looked up into his own frightened face. 
He would never be as beautiful as Katherine. Even wearing something as beautiful as this. The soft curls of his short hair were nothing like Katherine’s vibrant curls, light and perfect. His skin was too tough, his skin too freckled. No man would see him as beautiful. 
Especially not Lord Kogane. 

The next time the Lord visited, Lance wore the bracelet. He had never taken off since that night. Kat did not seem to mind. It was not like she was going to wear it in the near future.
Lance was not entirely sure why, but the thin metal felt comforting and safe around his wrist, and Lance touched every time he felt at loss the following days, as his mama scolded his brash behaviour, lack of manners, and generally faulted him for not being his sister. Even Luis sighed at him disappointed every time he saw him. Still the cool metal on his wrist grounded him, and maybe Lance thought about the Lord a bit when he did so. 
The Lord clearly noticed Lance wearing the gift the next time he came calling, as Lance served him tea, but he did not mention it. Still. A secret smirk played on the Lord’s lips every time he caught a sight of it. He would look Lance in the eyes afterwards like they were sharing a secret. Lance could not help it. He fell.

Chapter Text

“What is this?”
Keith stopped stroking his own horse enough to look at the displeased looks of his companion. “I beg your pardon?” He tried to hide the smirk, but the pout on Miss McClain’s face was, dare he say positively adorable, despite her attempts to look serious. 
“I thought we were going riding.” She huffed.
Keith thought so too as he adjusted his riding gloves and patted the horse he had selected for her.
“We are my dear, this horse is for you, you see.” Keith was a bit confounded, as he had found Miss McClain a very clever girl. He had started with the endearment just to see the flush colouring the lady's cheeks every time he said it. It had started out as a way to get under her skin, but now it was more for the jest. His father always called Krolia ‘my dear’, when she vexed him, and somehow it fitted his fiance as well as it suited Shiro’s mother.
“Then you are clearly a jokester. What do you want me to do? Just sit and prance, while you run around circles around me. Oh no, that most certainly will not do.” She tittered, stubborn as always he had come to find.
Keith finally understood her sentiment. She was talking about the lady saddle, strapped to the mare he had chosen for her. 
“Fetch me a proper saddle!” She instructed the stable boy, and started unbuckling the saddle herself. Keith reached out to help, but she shushed him away. 
“Sir, I do know how to saddle a horse, but it may seem you need to get your head checked, if you think I will go anywhere with that thing.”
The boy returned and Miss McClain quickly exchanged the saddle and huffed. 
“Come along now Lord Kogane, I will not not wait for you.” Then she swung herself up, no assistance needed, skirts ruffling and swishing, and were off. 
Keith only had a moment to compose himself, before he hurried up in Cosmo’s saddle to catch up with her. 

They rode over the hill together. Each time Keith was getting up next to her, she would push her mare a little bit to get ahead, and after a time it was like a game. It was fun even. He had to push Cosmo more than he anticipated to keep up, and enjoyed the chase quite well. 
In the end they neared their destination, and Keith gave leeway to give the lady the pleasure of winning. 
He let Cosmo slunk into the brushes next to the mare, and swung himself down to congratulate Miss Katherine McClain on her victory, but was caught suddenly, when she turned upon him. 
“You must think me a fool!” She huffed cross.
“No, why would...” Keith was suddenly presented with a gloved finger very close to his eyes, making him go cross eyed as he stared at it. The lady shook it furiously in his face, making him take a step back.
“I saw you pull back there. For what? My sake? You had the win, but you did not take it. Do not take me for a simpleton?” Her skirt ruffed as she stepped into his space.
“Of course not.” Keith shook his head confused, trying to avoid the large feather that dangled from her hat.
“Then did you not just pull back there? You just gave the win away?” The lady planted her fists on her hips and glared.
“Nonsense. You won fair and square.” Keith waved a hand in front of his chest. The lady harrumphed at him.
“I will only play with you as equals, do you hear me? I do not respect a man that feels he has to cuddle me to protect me from my own feelings. Where is your self respect? If you and I are gonna work out, you will treat me as an equal, even in small matters such as this, in all matters for that sake. I do not fear defeat. If you do not want to compete against me, just say so. Do not spare my feelings on the matter. If you can not tell me now, I will not trust you to tell me when it really matters.“ 

Keith was impressed by the impeccable speech, and even more so that she managed to insult him as well. Respect filled the room that would have normally would shake with anger and irritation by such blunt comments of his person, had it come from any other person than her. He had always been quick to temper, and in his younger days, quick to fists as well, but manners and his status required more delegate treatment in all. She was honest with him, and he could respect her wishes. 
“My dear, I promise you I would never...“ His reassurances were unfruitful, as the lady carried on. 
“Did you?” She held his glare, and the silence stretched between them. Keith held his stand, but crumbled after a couple of minutes of the staredown, with a little smile. The effort was oddly amusing. 
“I did.” He revealed with a flourish, making her puff up again, but in a much more joyous fashion than expected.
“I knew it!!” She shrieked, her voice making the weird jump again, but instead of spite, the lady giggled and smacked him with her gloves on the shoulder in good manners. Keith could not help not to smile himself like always, when she smiled like that at him. Her demeanor was infectious.
“I knew you were holding back, see. You can not hide anything from this nose.” She tapped her own nose and winked unashamed at him.
“Well it is a very pretty nose” Keith complimented automatically as his good manners and teachings had taught him. 
“It is, is it not.” Miss McClain agreed, humming and turned around herself. Keith had to stop himself to stare at the nose under the hat. It was rather pretty. Even for a girl.
But what caught his eyes was her wrist, even around her delegate riding gloves, Keith spotted the bracelet. 

Keith never cared much for jewellery, but Shiro kept reminding him that they were part of courtship, so Keith sent out a couple of pieces for the McClain estate, to soothe his brother. To his surprise Thace had returned to inform him that Miss McCalin had tried to send them back, had it not been for her mother. Keith pondered it for two moments before sending a bigger, more expensive one. The girl was spoiled and difficult, he concluded, but he would have to get on her good side, if they were gonna be married one day. He did not have time to be by the girl all the time. He had two estates to run, and businesses to tend to. Plus the Holts were in one of their moods being all secretive, so he had to make arrangements to sponsor their next project. All this took time.

To his surprise Thace returned with similar results each time. Again and again. Even when Keith came to visit, she still did not recognize his extravagant gesture, and never wore one of the gifts. Shiro had explained that was one way a Lady could show her gratitude and favour was to wear the piece from a suiter. Sometimes Keith wondered why such things were even necessary. They were engaged. Why were extra gestures even necessary? The faster they could go down the aisle, the faster he could get back to his life. End of story. But no. Certain steps, and certain expectations had to be met. It of course mattered not when the lady he was courting tried to ignore him and his gestures.

Still she hid behind that insufferable amount of lace that made her look like an old maid. Even if Keith spent time personally selecting a necklace he thought would suit her. She still ignored it. That evening when he called upon the family only with Shrio’s instance he had prepared himself for a torturous evening. And so had the first half also come and gone in such fashion. Even hiding behind all her manners Miss McClain had not been pleased to see him. Keith felt his brother’s eyes boring into his skull the entire time, he was in a room with her. Shiro had tried to instill the importance of pleasantries and a good smile, to help ease up the girl. 
“Try to find some common ground.” His brother had said, with pleading eyes. He had always been more popular and better in society then Keith.
“Can I not just wait until I have married her to get to know her?”
His brother had sent him that awful judgmental glare he had perfected over the years to make Keith do his bidding. So Keith trotted on, with the latest courting gift to appease his brother, and his future family in law. His mother in law was delighted to see him, his fiance in much less fashion. 

After dinner he had desperately tried to figure out how to hold a conversation with the lady, but came up empty handed when put on the spot, despite Shiro and him conducting a list of suitable topics to discuss with a refined lady. 
In the end he sputtered out ‘horse’ like a fool and made her uncomfortable. 
To his surprise she rode, and even more she read. Quite a lot. The evening took an unexpected turn then.
He found himself enthralled by her speech as they sat sipping tea. She was quite knowledgeable not only in frivolous subjects such as poetry reading, and fictional work, but also about contemporary authors and their works, including some interesting papers about modern engineering techniques. Then the object has naturally led to observations about the Holts, and that had dragged Keith in even more, so much so he even engaged to discuss other topics that were easier to converse in. Keith to his surprise found he was quite easily able to make a conversation in this fashion. Miss Katherine McClain never felt like a prim lady he had to tiptoe around, but an equal with intelight, passion and a stubbornness that matched his own. He had even come to enjoy her company during the evening. Of course Shiro mocked him tirelessly for this. Smiling and jesting if Keith had actually dared to have a pleasant evening out in polite society. He teased Keith even more when he found out Keith had hired Matt to hunt down and find the books the lady seemed to enjoy. Keith reasoned that the lady simply did not care for jewellery, so he would have to find something else to get in her good graces. Books could be an easier pathway. 

It was first much later that Keith realised that maybe Miss McClain simply did not wear necklaces. So he spent hours going from jeweller to jeweller to find something else to suit her. But his limited taste, and his brother's unhelpful advice resulted in they had returned home empty handed. Then at home he got a spur of enlightenment and went to his mothers old jewellery box, where he found her favourite bracelet gifted by his father long ago. It was perfect. To see it sit on Miss McClain’s hand now, filled Keith with a sort of unusual pride. To see her reaction, when she pulled the paper aside and saw the novels had filled a satisfying ache in Keith's chest, he did not know it was there. He had no idea why it mattered so much, but the thought of pleasing Miss Katherine, and seeing her react with such joyous vigour had filled him with new found interest and thought.

Still, he glanced at her as they chit chatted and let their horses take a break. She had a lovely tint from the ride in her cheeks, and her curls, that were not pinned down under her ridiculous hat, were bouncing every time she moved. Her waist was also abnormally small, so Keith supposed as any prober young lady she was sown in. Her dress in light blue, was more casual than what he had seen her in prior, but still very much the image of an upstanding lady. Keith had to wonder why women and ladies would go to such lengths for their fashion. It could not be comfortable. Still he could perhaps to a degree appreciate the silhouette it gave the young miss McClain. She was not curvaceous of any sort, and her chest was flat as a washing board. Still he supposed her narrow waist and petite behind paired with her long legs did help her look quite ideal. Combined with her manners, Keith had no problem closing his eyes and imagining her in trousers and a waistcoat. Most dangerous thoughts indeed.  
She was of course still very much female, but Keith would have to stop fault her for sex, when she had no say in the matter. Keith would have to stop imagining things, and get a more realistic perception, or else he would never be happy. 
In the end she could be a good companion, a friend perhaps and in the future a good mother for his children. Whatever Keith desired from a marriage he would have to bury or find a way to have a secret paramour that would not rat him out to his wife and society. No, that was perhaps too great a risk. The wife would have to do. 

When they rode back, Keith did give it his all, and he barely won, much to the lady's protests. They startled the poor stable boy, coming to a screeching halt in the yard, kicking out dirt, and horses panting. Keith himself felt his shortness of breath. He turned to his lady, and saw her in much the same condition. Hat astray, curls askew, breathing hard, but with a wicked smile on her lips and fire in her eyes. She mumbled praises to the poor mare, and stroked her neck tenderly. When she felt Keith’s eyes on her, she sat up to address him. 
“Now, was that not much more enjoyable?” Then she wavered, and Keith had to jump off his horse to settle her, as she did not fall off the mare. 
She giggled, and Keith could not help to smile at her antics again. He offered her a hand, which she fortunately took. 

“Now I must leave you my good sir.” She said promptly. “I am afraid you have seen me in a terrible state, and I must go make me more presentable, if not for your good graces, then for the rest of our company.” She sent worried looks behind them to the stairs where her nanny stood dressed up for riding, but the young couple had set off before she was truly ready. Keith decided to ignore the chaperone, and instead reached over to kiss Miss McClain’s hand. That was something courting couples did right?
“You have never looked more beautiful.” And Keith meant it. Her face lit up even more, even now with the hat askew, rumbled dress, with dirt and mud on the hem, sweat on her brow and neck, she looked strong, bold and fierce. Her eyes shone with the compliment. They were brilliant blue.
“Still. Thank you for your company today Lord Kogane. I found it most delightful.” She said in a way, like he had just served her a cup of tea. She curtsied and hurried inside. Keith looked after her, while the stable boy gaped at her retreating form. 
Keith chuckled. He would have to look into finding a proper racing horse for her, or he would end up losing to her before he knew it. Surprisingly the thought did not give him so much grief as he thought it would.  

He thought of more gifts that would suit her. She was well read, and enjoyed small gestures rather than blusterous shows of affection. He brought her another book about riding he enjoyed reading as a child, and he was pleasantly happy when she accepted his gift with no arguments whatsoever. His brother gave him an encouraging smile as they watched Miss McClain fuss over her gift, with much more eagerness and vice then her other gifts. They spent a pleasant afternoon discussing horses and races after that. 
The next day he brought her other books. She flushed a scarlet that she tried to hide under her fan, but her joy was too much to hide. Her mother smiled at Keith through gritted teeth and a courteous smile, but Keith could sense the women's reluctance to books for her youngest daughter. Still Keith found it much more enjoyable to talk to Miss McClain about horses and constellations of the night sky, than about the pleasant late summer rain they had had last night. 
It fascinated Keith that when first the lady began she could hardly stop. It was more relaxing than watching her try to guard her words around him. She made extra effort around her mama, but it gave him a sort of satisfaction to know lady Katherine brought down her walls around him. She even had the audacity to throw in a snark remark once in a while then her mama looked the other way. She even questioned his opinion on matters in the books, and they spent a good half pot of tea disagreeing with each other. She did not take no as an answer and rose to Keith’s challenges easily, and Keith had to agree he had a tendency to fall into her traps, placed with clever words and snarky remarks as well. If she had been a man they would surely have come to blows by now, if not for the pleasant atmosphere. Keith had to catch himself not to enjoy the banter and remind himself that she was to become his wife, not his mate. In the end it became like a game between them, one they even reconvened in all their future meetings, much to Keith's surprised delight. How to best insult the other while still in polite conversation, while still not notifying their sounding company. There were extra points if the opponents reacted out right. Open mouth in reaction, raised eyebrows, scowling, any kind of reaction was in the others favour. Keith was in the lead of course, even if Miss McClain had made him wanna throw an object or two at her perfectly arched eyebrows when she taunted him. Even as they quarreled over the best breed of horses, theories of the Holt’s or even firearms, he enjoyed the thrill and her eyes on his. On an impulse he brought one last gift. 

The sight on Mrs. McClain's face made the trip worth it alone, and then came the joyous reaction from Miss McClain. He felt the shock running through the room, as Miss Katherine unwrapped a new hunting rifle with delegate fingers. Shiro gasped quietly behind him, but he covered it up with a well placed cough. Keith had refused to reveal the contents of the package as they sat in the carriage on the road to the McClain estate. Miss Katherine’s brother had gone awfully stiff and silent next to Keith, and Mrs. McClain looked about ready to faint, red rising to her cheek in a striking fashion. But Keith's eyes were trapped on Miss Katherine as she giggled with felicity over her present.
“I thought you better have the proper equipment should you have a chance to beat me in a shooting competition.” He remarked, satisfied with her reaction. She perked up at him, a fire in her blue eyes.
“Oh sir, you must be mistaken if you think I need this to best you. As you truly know already.“ Keith had trouble holding back his laughter, but looking around the room, he decided to hold it in for now, as Mrs. McClain looked ready to strangulate him with her shawl.
“Still I look forward to seeing you try.” He nodded gracefully, getting his voice under control. The smile on Miss McClain's face warmed his heart, in a way he never believed possible from a woman. He did not dare think more of it now, as her eyes wandered over his person, sizing him up. Analysing. 
“Well try I must then. But complain nought, when I beat you in front of your hunting party once more.” Her wicked grin sent shivers down his spine. Keith relished the promise.
To his surprise she stood up to stand next to him. She placed a tantalising hand on his arm, and leaned in to place a devilish kiss on his cheek. The room erupted around them.

Chapter Text

Lance sighed and dropped the book he had been trying to read. It had failed to capture his attention. He groaned in a way that would have made his mama hit him, and slumped further down in his seat at the settee. He was bored out of his mind. The first autumn ball of the season, held at the mayor's estate, would be decked out in splendor, two different dance rooms, with the most wonderful pristine, interesting people and Lance was stuck back home while the rest of his family was out flaunting about. But he had to keep up the ruse with poor Katherine’s sickness and had to stay away so nobody recognized him while he was in the presence of Lord Kogane. 
Kat had fallen asleep hours ago, and shushed him out of her room, because of his annoying fidgeting. She had more colour in her cheeks lately, but still had trouble keeping awake for longer periods of time. Lance had tried reading to her, but her eyes had kept fluttering, so Lance put away the book, and kissed his sister goodnight as she fell deeper back into her ivory fluffy pillows.

After Lance's appalling stunt in front of the Lord, his free time had been decreased and he was put under constant and scrupulous supervision. No more sneaking off for himself, and even less with the Lord. Nancy had given up, and now Veronica took up the mantle to ensure impeccable, respectful, ladylike behaviour from Lance from now on. She failed to see the humour in this, when Lance pointed it out to her, that she was no more lady then he was. She wrapped him over his fingers with a newspaper, and forced him to sit still with an atrocious thick book on his head for two hours.
Mama had been in splinters ever since the incident, convinced that the Lord had seen through their disguise and would rat them out any moment now. 
A Rifle. A firearm. No one would ever in their sane mind gift that as a courting present to a refined lady. What kind of reputation would it give them if their social circle found out? Lance was ruining Katherine's esteemed reputation. Refusing jewellery, but accepting books and now a firearm. Had Lance no shame? What had he said to the Lord to twist the man’s mind like that? What kinds of ungodly thoughts had Lance put in the man’s head, for him to gift such nonsense to Katherine? Mama did not want to see reason, or listen to Lance's explanation to clarify that he had no power over what the Lord gifted him. And that they technically were gifts to him not Katherine. His mama had looked paler than a sheet, and exploded. 

Lance was an ungrateful deceitful boy. The Lord was here only for Katherine, and would never think twice about Lance in his life. Each word had hurt like a knife. 
Then of course came the scolding about the kiss. 
Both his mama, Veronica and Luis took turns reprimanding him. Their words precise and punctuational. 
Ladies, did not go around kissing men. Not even their fiances. Such things were reserved for after marriage. Lance was ruining Katherine’s image with the Lord.
Lance kept his mouth shut. He knew what happened after marriage. But he also knew that many young men floundered around with women, before getting married. Marco had introduced Lance to the underground lifestyle that society held hidden, early in his academic career. And Lance knew what it meant to hold, kiss and please a woman. He thought it thoroughly hypercritical that the young ladies were kept in the dark, and to be kept pure, when the men were washing about unbothered.  
Still he kept his tongue. His family was in no mood for one of his opinions, as they lathered on.

But in the moment with the lord, Lance had been overwhelmed, and he had not been able to contain himself. He had been happy. Elated with feelings, that the Lord had looked at him, listened to him and gifted him a rifle. Something he always wanted of his own. All he had tried was hand-me-downs. He rarely was given anything new and completely his own, especially after their fathers death. But the Lord. 
The Lord has brought him something just for him. The smug grin on the Lord’s face had been too staggering. Lance could not help it. He could barely contain his body. So he stood and kissed his benefactor’s cheek. 
They had been pulled apart immediately, and Lance had been rushed to a different room, while Luis saw the Lord and his brother out. Lance had not had time to see the Lord's reaction. Did he hate it? Did he hate Lance now..? No wait.. Did he hate Katherine now? The Lord had never been acquainted with Lance. 
For all that, that night the lord had filled his awareness. The memory and thoughts clouded his mind constantly. They were like a kindle to a fire, the two of them. Lance was afraid he would burst most of the time. The Lord was insufferable, infuriating, agitating, but also admirable and clever. Lance felt conflicted. Everywhere the Lord had touched him, he burned. He burned under his gaze, he burned under his respectable touch and he burned every time he was called “dear”. The flush had almost become a permanent blemish on his face anytime the Lord was in his vicinity. It was unheard off. 

Lance had read of great romances, where a single look could change everything. How the gaze of one’s intended could be enthralling and enticing. They had never described it could be like this. 
Lance knew that there were men, who did not seek the company of women, but rather of other men. And even Lance could appreciate and recognize when a man was considered handsome and even attractive. He had met many men he considered handsome, high ranking or working class. Hunk was a prime example. But to prefer his own sex rather than female. 
The thought was shameful and disgraceful by society standards, but still Lance had a hard time feeling regretful over his own attraction. The thought of the Lord’s eyes one his, his hand gracing over his own bare arm. The shivers ran through Lance, and burned through his veins with passion. What an attractive, insufferable schmuck. Whom Lance had no claim, nor right to. The Lord was his sister's fiance. It mattered not that he tolerated Lance now. Even indulged in Lance’s whims and fancies. 
Within long, Lance would be out of his life and Katherine would move into Kogane manor and Lance would be left alone back home. End of story. His feelings of attraction were insignificant and of little matter.

The Lord had not come calling as often after the incident, and Lance was prohibited to call on the Marmora estate. And when they were decisively in the same room together at rare times, both Luis, mama and Veronica were present. Mama seated next to Lance, with one hand on his arm, nails digging into it, leaving half crescent shapes behind, keeping Lance in line, and keeping his mouth shut, only to answer to be asked directly. He could see the disgust in the Lord's eyes over the situation. Lance could not bear it. He felt as helpless as when the Lord stood before him for the first time. Unable to speak, afraid to make a blunder and afraid to be himself. Now he had only himself.

The children had stayed back with him, but had been put to bed, watched by Nancy. So Lance was left to his own devices. The house was silent downstairs, and one could feel the cold settling in in the closed corners of the house, even so with the mild autumn weather and a large fire that had been made in the main sitting room. Lance moved restlessly around the room glancing outside to look for the carriage, even if it would be hours before the family would return. The darkness outside made it impossible to see anything. Only the single lantern by the gates to help the carriage later in the night.
Lance glanced at the ornate clock on the mantle. The ivory shone in the firelight, and the gold handles had barely moved all night. The clock had been a gift from his late grandfather to his wife. Lance scowled at it. The large handle moved a bit. Five over nine. The dancing would probably be well underway. When was the last time he danced? He loved to dance. He deserved to let loose a bit and dance.
Lance rolled his eyes and went back to the settee. He huffed as he sat down his corset hindering his movements. His mother had insisted on more comprehensive training, even though Lord Kogane would not come to call upon them. Mama had made sure of that. The training was more to keep Lance in line, and remind him of his duties for his sister.
So Lance had been trapped in his corset, stockings and wig and was not allowed to remove it before the family returned. Nancy had been instructed to watch over him and report back to mama if Lance failed in this task. 

He pulled at a curl at his left ear, making it bounce in his left periphery. Annoyed, he sat up straight as he mother had instructed, sucked in his tummy and tried to emanate devine beauty and ladylikeness. He caught his reflection in the window, reflected and distorted by the scattered candlelight that bathed the room in a warm yellow glow. From this distance the resemblance was uncanny, and he could for a moment elude himself to think that the reflection of the beautiful woman in the window was dear Katherine, sweet and healthy sitting on the couch, and not sick and poorly upstairs, unable to move.

Defeated, he sulked down in his seat. He hated this. He hated deceiving Lord Kogane. He had been nothing but honourable towards Lance, while Lance helped his mother spin lies and deceit around him. And how had Lance repay him. By holding infatuated maybe even romantic feelings towards the other man. The Lord did not deserve that.
Last time they spoke they had gone on a carriage ride together into town with Veronica watching vigilantly over them.  
Lance looked down on his hand, remembering the soft touch from the Lord’s hand. His smile when he had helped Lance into the carriage with him. He had not let go of his hand the entire ride, despite Veronica’s piercing eyes. They had done nothing improper. Simply just sat and held hands while they trailed through the countryside. Mr. Shirogane grinning behind a paper next to Veronica who looked most unpleased.
The Lord had laughed gently at Lance’s silently whispered silly anecdote not to attract Veronica's attention, and even answered with his own wit, making Lance clamp a hand over his own mouth not to sputter out in glee. That must prove that the Lord did not think ill of him afterward, right?
They had separated in town, where the Lord and his brother would travel on for business, and the “sisters” were going shopping. 

It had been some time since they had seen each other due to the Lord’s work that demanded his attention. For Lance’s family that was a rewarded break in the scheme, and a chance to reign Lance in some more, but Lance had to admit with great regret that he missed spending time with Lord Kogane. He had received a note saying that the Lord looked forward to seeing him at the ball. Seeing Katherine at the ball to be more precise.
Lance just hoped his mother had been clever enough to quell the Lord’s curiosity. Would Lord Kogane be disappointed that Lance would not make an appearance at the ball. Would he move on with his night, relieved that he did not need to entertain his fiance? Would he dance with other ladies? Would he sit with the other men in the game room perhaps? Lance had a clue about the Lord’s preferences, but he did not seem like he would enjoy dancing. 

Lance almost missed it, too caught up in his own pondering. The lantern by the gate flickered, like something passed. Which was odd and unlikely. His family would not be back for hours. Who would call on such an hour, and when there was a ball going underway. Slowly Lance got up to look out the window again. Another flicker. Something most definitely moved. 

Lance got up and ran up to his room, grabbed his new shiny rifle and ran back down, curls and skirts flying. He had just reached the top of the stairs in their large entrée when a feverish pounding started on the door. Nancy craned her neck out the children’s room, but Lance waved her back in. 
Reading his rifle, Lance called. “Who’s there?”
A shuffling, and the pounding stopped. Hesitation, then the door opened, and Lord Kogane stormed into the foyer. His hat askew, and coat rumpled, like they had been thrown on in a hurry. Lance stiffened and hurried to hide the rifle in the nearest potted plant. 
“My Lord!!” Lance exclaimed, suddenly very happy that he kept on the outrageous dress and wig. He rushed down the stairs, as much as etiquette allowed him, and curtsied. 
“What brings you here at this hour? Are you well? Is something the matter?“
“Yes. No..I mean..” The Lord brushed his hat off, and fidgeted with it.  He stopped, remembered himself and bowed a bit clumsy, with none of his regular easiness and grace for the gentleman. 
“I heard…. I met with….” Lance was simply baffled. He had never seen the Lord so jumbled.
“Would you like to come inside?” Lance asked, gesturing to the sitting room. Lord Kogane, looked towards the room, then back to Lance.
“Should you even be out of bed!” He bursted, an unexpected anger marring his face.
“I beg your pardon?” Lance could not help the hand that flies to his throat in distraught. Mama would have been impressed. The Lord was not.
“What are you doing out of bed, and without a shawl? Are you well? I was told you were very very poor, unable to leave the bed.”
“Oh.” His mama had exaggerated again. 
“I was my Lord.” Lance explained, trying to hold the mask, but the sight of him alone sent shivers down Lance’s spine.
“But I feel a little better and thought the light and warmth from the fire would help my complexion. I must have fallen asleep there and left my shawl there. Would you not come sit My lord?“ 
Lord Kogane nodded, then stopped as no valet appeared to take his coat and hat. Lance sighed inwardly. Their normal valet was off, as he was only used then they had guests. Because the family was out, and was not expecting anyone, he had gone home for the night. 
Lance took the items from the Lord. “I will send for tea. Please take a seat.” 
Lance hurried in hanging the Lord's items, and ran down the stairs to the kitchen where Nancy already was pouring hot water down into a pot. She shooed him out, while she made the tea tray. She threw her shawl at him on the way out, and Lance frantically wrapped it on himself. 

Lance made his way back, stopping on the way to make sure his hair was settled, and his dress not too ruffled. Then he straightened, summoned all his dignity,  and went to face the Lord. 
Lord Kogane rose when Lance entered, and Lance gestured to him to sit. They sat awkwardly in front of the fireplace. Lord Kogane kept shifting position, while Lance willed his legs to sit still. Nancy shuffled in and put the tray down and left immediately. 
“Thank you Nancy.” Lance said, and Nancy nodded and returned to the children. 
“I……” Lord Kogane stammered. “I was told you were ill.”
“I am better now, my lord. Simply not up for dancing and company.” Lance wished he was able to go for the company and dancing. Better than sitting collecting dust at home.
“I would have liked to have danced with you.” Lord Kogane’s eyes were on Lance’s wrist rather than his face. The bracelet twinkled between them.
“You do not have to humour me with such nonsense. I know dancing is not one of your favourite diversions.“ The smile on Lance’s face was tight, as his mind drifted off somewhere to dance with an imaginary Lord Kogane. 
The Lord made a staggering motion, before Lance picked up the conversation again.
“I know you value the company you keep, and dancing requires you to seek out other acquaintances, as expected for your stature. Quite exhausting.”
There sounded a long sigh from across the tea tray and Lance lifted his eyes from his fine porcelain cup.
“For you, I would have bared such folly.” Their eyes met, and Lance had to put down his cup in fear of it shaking with his trembling hand.
“Thank you.” He piped out instead, stunned into submission with the Lord’s revelation. The Lord's sudden burst of laughter broke the tension held between them.
“Now I feel quite useless, sitting here knowing you are well. What I mean, I am glad you are well, I just. .. Wanted to see for myself. But you seem quite well.”
“Quite.” Lance nodded curtly. The Lord pulled at his collar and ran a hand over his hair. Despite his ruffled state it was still a striking image. The Lord abandoned his cup, and instead reached out, laying a gentle hand on Lance’s hand on the arm rest. 
“Is there anything I can do for you?” His eyes were violet in the timid light. 
“Would you read to me?” Lance found himself saying. Unable to break Lord Kogane’s spell. 
“I find it quite challenging to focus on the words of this great author, even though he is one of the great. Could you maybe help me?”
Relief washed over the Lord’s features, and in turn heat washed over Lance.
“Of course my lady,”

This was how Lance's family found them hours later. Lance sitting in an armchair, knees pulled up under him, leaning on the armrest, looking into the fire, one arm hanging off the chair, while Lord Kogang read to him. The Lord lounged on the settee, where he had opened one of the buttons on his west, his hair loose out of his ponytail, relaxing with both feet up on a foot stool. A stray hand hanging off, only barely brushing Lance’s hand from time to time. Comforting. Warm. Relaxing. Absolutely scandalous. 

The joy, and smiles on their faces that came with an evening of good company, food and dancing, disappeared the instant the family layed eyes on the young couple. 
Lance sat up drowsy, while Lord Kogane bolted. His mama sent him frantic eyes, as they walked Lord Kogane out, as he refused to stay the night, and decided to drive home in the night. The Lord kissed Lance's hand goodbye and left. Lance waved him off from the window, while his mother, and Luis waved him off from outside. When his mother returned, she turned on Lance and launched into a lecture of domestic proportions. Lance just stood as his mama ran herself dry. After then he wandered back to bed, where he removed the wig, dress and corset, daydreaming of soft purple eyes, and soft brushed across the back of his hand.

Chapter Text

Miss Katherine McClain was the most stubborn, infuriating, aggravating, fascinating, intellectual being Keith had had the displeasure to have become acquainted with. Half the time he sought to throttle her with that stupid outrageous lace around her throat. The other half he sought to rip off the lace and kiss her skin there, so it was purple with his mark, branding her as his. 
She made him question everything. His life. His entire existence. He was not, and could not be attracted to a woman. He simply could naught. The thought alone tore at his inside and made him nauseous. Still the thrill when her lips had briefly and air light touched his cheek, as her hand had grazed his bicep. The touch had gone straight to his lower half. Impossible. He had never reacted in such a manner before because of a woman. Never.
There was something the matter with him. But Ulaz had checked him out thoroughly and declared him in the best of health. 
That woman had bewitched him. Ruined him. Never in his life had he thought of a woman enticing as she had. Wrapped him around her finger like she had. 
Shiro had called it love.

Keith had called it a series of profanities, and thrown the nearest object at his brother's head temper finally boiling over. The glass had shattered on the wall next to his brother’s head, who did not even give Keith the satisfaction by looking up and acknowledging the gesture. Kolivan had with a sigh wiped it up before handing his employer a non breakable object for Keith to throw. Keith had hit Shiro on the head this time with the ornate pillow, and his brother had the audacity to laugh. 
If this was what Miss Katherine was like, Keith wondered if her twin were anything of the same sought. Miss Katherine’s brother, Lancelot McClain was away at school and Keith thanked the heavens that they would not meet before the wedding. If Miss Katherine’s brother was anything like her, Keith would have to tread carefully or he might just kidnap him and elope with him instead of Katherine. It could be perfect. All Miss Katherine’s manners, face, wits and intelligence but wrapped up in a form that Keith could wholeheartedly appreciate. The thought was too enticing. He would be doomed. 

Therefore the solution was simple. Decrease time spent with Miss McClain until the wedding, climatize himself once more to get a hold of reality, and at the same time be a respectable person in the community. That, while always staying vigilant when in the same room. Never be alone with her, and always have a plan prepared to leave early. But he could not escape the requirements of being one of the most respectable gentlemen and businessmen in the community and society, and that meant he would have to be seen with her at balls and soirees out in society. He could manage that he supposed. She would be bound by decorum just as him. No stray hands that would drive him to madness and ruin his reputation right there on the dance floor. He sent her a note to know he was expecting her, and then took off to the ball at the mayor's estate, prepared for a tedious night.

To his surprise, when he arrived at the mayor's estate and waited for the lady to arrive, he was fairly disappointed. Keith left his brother to his own devices and went around exploring the many fine rooms as he took a turn about, trying to look uninterested and unapproachable. The whole house was decked out in impressive fashion with flowers and lit up like a chandelier. 
The McClain family had shown up in splendour, turning around the room as if they had been royalty. Greeting everyone by name, exchanging pleasantries and overall dazzling everyone around then. They approached Keith and Shiro, and Keith faltered seeing them fall in numbers. His fiance was nowhere to be found among them. 
“She is ill, my lord.'' Mrs. McClain had said dramatically. “She felt faint and I insisted she stay home to improve her health.”
Before Keith could enquire further, another acquaintance greeted Mrs. McClain and she was swept up into the crowds. Her family seemed also to have disappeared around the party goers, leaving it impossible to approach and get better affirmation. 

And so Keith had held through the soup, the first course and the main, before he gave up and left the ball to see for himself. The thought of Miss Katherine, frail and sick, left alone at home, possibly dying. What would he do if she died? Besides the annoyance of finding another woman to marry, the thought alone was unbearable. 
The sight of her standing in front of him, good in health looking absolutely divine, at first filled him with relief. Then despair over himself, that he left the ball without notifying anyone, and then the foolishness over his own mind. Good god, the grip this woman had on him. Then she had smiled at him and quelled all his tumultuous thoughts and they had sat down. 
The evening had been much more enjoyable than had they been at the ball. 
He had to resign and admit to himself he wanted more of her company. Even if it was in the stifling company of her family. 

There were more balls to be held, so Keith was sure he would have another chance to be seen with her in public, and fulfil that part of his responsibility as devoted fiance as was expected of him. Not because he wanted to dance with her. Most certainly not. 
Peculiarly Miss Katherine always fell ill around the time for the ball’s to be held. She had eaten some bad fish. She had stumbled down a step and had to rest her foot. She had to rest because of an oncoming cold.  
Keith cursed her good excuses and wondered how he could fashion such an excuse himself, and sneak out to see her. Then remembered the prediction and calmed himself. It would not do to rush off in such fashion again. Instead he made sure to send her flowers at every ball she did not attend. Which turned out to be all of them. 

He took matters into his own hand, when enough was enough and left the house a message that he would call on Katherine the following day. He chose the open carriage as the weather was mild, and it was one of the last few days, where the drive was still pleasurable during this season. 
Regris was an expert driver, always quiet, giving Keith a moment to reflect, not remarking about how he travelled alone without his brother's approval. He had written to Krolia and invited her to stay with them during the winter. Shiro had not approved as he and his mother had a touch and go relationship on the best of days. Still she was his mother, and she had in the best of her abilities raised both of them. Krolia and Keith had always kept their distance from each other, but there was a mutual respect between them. Keith was not gonna let her sit alone in an empty estate with her son elsewhere during the holidays. So he had sent the summoning and ignored his brother's pleas for second approval. Shiro was now in a state of constant alert, until they received the response. The Kogane estate had been their home through most of his life, but it was marked by his father and Krolia, and had never felt like his after he inherited it. So he set out to find a new primary home, and let Krolia stay in her home, without her step son taking over and changing everything. The solution had come in Marmora. And even if Keith brought over half the staff from the Kogane estate, and even hired new ones, Krolia was still in a comfortable position. 

Now he made haste to the McClain’s estate to keep his mind off things. They had barely stopped in front of the building before the doors flung open and a voice yelled “GO GO GO!!” Regris in surprise spurred the horses, making Keith grasp on the the side of the carriage, still with one of the doors open as the carriage started moving. Miss Katherine ran out the door of her home like the building was on fire, skirt flying, bonnet half askew, one hand holding it down, other hand holding up her skirts as she ran towards them, flowers and ribbons falling off on the way in an explosion of pastels. 
She reached out her hand and Keith grasped it, helping her get pulled into the moving vehicle. 
“Drive!!!” She yelled and Regris yelped and spurred on the horses further. Keith quickly closed the door, so she did not fall off, as the horses trotted into a gallop. 
Behind them the rest of the McClain’s fanned out in front of the house, Mr. Luis McClain running after the carriage waving and shouting. Behind him Mrs. McClain was shouting something, but Keith could not hear it over the horse's hooves clopping on the path. 
Miss Katherine took one look back, and joyous grin on her face, and sank back into the seat, her hand still in Keith’s and she burst into joyous laughter, 
“What have you done?” Keith stammered, not daring to look back from where they had fled.
“Oh, where is your sense of adventure, good Sir.” She grinned, sitting up to put order to her hat and skirts, trying to make more room for both of them as they sat side by side.
“They never would give me time alone. It was getting tiresome only to insult you under their scrutiny. I know this is unconventional, but I thought this way we could spend some time together. Just the two of us.“
Keith blinked at her innocent face. He wondered what wrath they had brought upon them with their sudden departure in such a manner, and how they were gonna recover from it.
“Are you cross with me?” Miss Katherine’s voice grew frail and the disappointment was evident when Keith did not carry the same optimistic sentiment. Keith was slightly cross with her, but after seeing her like this, he thought better of scolding her. 
“I think it is a wonderful idea.” He took both her hands, and she bloomed once more.
“Do not worry I will handle it when I go back. I will have to face them sooner or later.“ She waved a carefree hand in his face. ”And fear not, I will emphasise on your innocence in this. Once more I have roped you into an atrocious endeavour.” 
Keith leaned back in his seat to enjoy the ride through the countryside.
“Why? Do your family not believe I could come up with such a scheme? We could be eloping as we speak.” She caught the bait, and fluttered her eyelashes at him with a wicked grin on her lips. 
“They think you are too noble for such.” She tittered, giggling into the back of her hand, while Keith got to hold on to the other one.
“And what do you think?” Keith looked out towards the road as they travelled on.
“I know better.“ Was that a smirk on the lady's lip? No coy, humble lady anymore. No, his Miss Katherine was back and she bit back at him well assured.
“I know that if you planned to steal me away, you would have been more thoroughly and secretive about it. If we eloped we would have been half across the country before they found us.” 
Keith mirrored her smirk. “You do know me best.”
He kissed her hand and she giggled, and leaned in to rest her head on his arm. A little awkward with her ridiculous hat but Keith enjoyed having her near all the same he realised.

The weather was mild, and they sat in comfortable silence enjoying the steady movement of the carriage as they moved along. They were not faring very far. They were not even returning to Marmora estate. They were just driving around the country, taking in the leaves, turning in colour, but still held an emerald hue. Keith enjoyed the calm and quiet. Something he rarely had when working, and even less in his household. The Holts made up for that, and even his brother knew how to keep the house busy, always having company over, when all Keith wanted to do was a quiet night in, alone with his brother.
Miss Katherine had not said a word either, which was uncharacteristic of her, when it was just the two of them. They had been under surveillance so long, she had perhaps completely fallen into old habits, where she shut up like a clamp around him. But when he looked at her in the corner of his eyes, she was merely resting on his arm, hummin under her breath as they went along. How nice that they could spend time together without being forced to fill the air with unnecessary blabber. 
Keith sat up a bit straighter, and the lady responded by lifting to a better sitting position to look at him in questioning. 
“We could use some time together.” Keith tried to sound casual and polite. The lady nodded at him, folding her gloved hands in her lap primly. 
“I agree.”
“I have a proposal.” Keith said. This was an idea he had mulled over, but not thought he would take action on. He already had plans to have one house guest over. What would matter with one more.
“How interesting.” As she nodded again, the ribbon on her hat bobbed. 
“Would you like to spend some time at Marmora?” 
She looked quite taken by surprise by the invitation, her mouth forming a perfect o.
“You could visit and stay a month. It is not too far as your family can come check up on you, and your nanny,” Keith explained as Miss Katherine intervened.
“Governess.” She corrected, but Keith ignored her and carried on.
“Franny,”
“Nancy.” She said, raising an eyebrow, but smiled amusingly. He smiled back at her, and she rolled her eyes at him.
“,can come as well.” He concluded like she had not spoken at all. “I would have the opportunity to have the pleasure of your company in between all the business I have to attend to, and you would have an opportunity to become more acquainted with the estate and the household. Maybe you and Axca can start planning how you would like to decorate. It will benefit from a female touch.” 
The light lit up in the lady's eyes, only for her face to turn sad and frowning, to once again fall into a perfectly structured smile, and polite nod. All this happened with a blink of an eye, and Keith wondered if it was just a trick of the light. 
“I think it is a wonderful idea.” She smiled at him and squeezed his hand gently. 
Keith wanted to reach over and kiss her, but he knew better. 
She was a lady. A lady with a reputation he would ruin, even if he were to marry her. It mattered not that she had kissed his cheek in a fit of euphoria. He knew better. Still the sensation was strange to him. He actually wanted to kiss this woman. A thought he never would've thought possible in his lifetime. But the more time he spent with her, he had problems denying it. He cared for her. The rest he would have to figure out later. The thought of more with her was still inconceivable. She never felt like a lady to him, and the disappointment knowing what was underneath her dress would not quell his want to kiss her. Odd. He better check himself. He was better than this. She could not have this hold of him. He would be strong. 
“I will persuade my mother.” She said, her voice a little bit more timid. “But you will have to be patient. She will not agree right away. I will have to make her think it was her grant idea, or she will never allow it. Especially after I just ran out the door like that.”
Keith nodded. Better her than him.
“We better turn around. I must face mama sooner than later.” She looked solemn.
“You think that is wise.” He tried to jest, but her face was set in stone. 
“No, but it is what it must be.” Keith was taken back with her tone, but he signaled Regris and he turned the horses toward the McClain residence once again. He reached out to take her hand once more, and she let him, but she did not squeeze back when he pressed gently on her hand. The rest of the drive she looked out on the landscape and Keith did not enjoy the silence as much as he had previously.

Chapter Text

Lance was miserable. He was falling for the lord. Falling for his sister's fiance. He could feel it. All the signs were there like the other time he had fallen in love. Because that was what Lance did. He fell in love, over and over again, from when he was very small. He had fallen in love dusins of times, and they had never ended pleasantly. There had been a shop girl in the city he fancied, but she only responded to his advances so he would buy more from the shop. There were a couple of ladies in the ton, at the time a couple of years older than his wide eyed self, who sneered at his affection. Then there had been Nyma. They had courted a bit he would say. She had called it passing time, while her real fiance was away on business for a season, and Lance was dropped the minute he stepped back into town. She and a handful of other debutants had the same reasoning for rejecting him. He was the third son, with no title to inherit, and no fortune to speak of. He was simply undesirable as a husband.
And in his current situation with the Lord. Lance had come to wonder if he was undesirable as a wife as well. 

Then there had been Allura. His first flame and the woman that still held a bit of his heart after all these years. Their families were friends and acquaintances and they had in a fashion grown up together. She had held his affection since before he could remember, but to her, Lance had always just been her best friend's little brother. Katherine and Allura had been thick as thieves in their younger years. Then they both entered into society, they became friendly rivals before loving friends. When Lance had approached Allura with his affection she had laughed. She had not done so to hurt him, she just found the situation hilarious. Lance was heart broken, but the humiliation had still not squashed all the burn that ran through him each time he thought of her. Now he could recognize the same ache that held him each time Lord Kogane looked at him, touched him and kissed his hand. The ache of yearning and wanting more. Knowing that he would never have more. His heart yearned for what he could never have just like it had done before. Lance tried to use the argument to fool his brain, but his heart was elsewhere. Held securely in the grasp of the Lord, and Lance was swept away. 

The man was gentle, but still stubborn and had a bit of a temper when poked. Oh how Lance liked to poke him. He missed that in the time they had not seen each other. A whole month just the two of them sounded like a dream. Well not the two of them. There would be Nancy of course, and Mr. Shirogane too. But still the opportunity to get more insight into the comings and goings of Lord Kogane, and the opportunities to poke a bit at him, and his humongous ego, maybe even make him laugh. The thought was enticing. Still, to convince his family it was a good idea, was an entirely different matter. 
Lance had started small, mentioning to his mama, when they sat after the lord had left, questioning him about his every motion, and word they had shared, Lance casually mentioned, that the lord sounded like the winter season would be lonely in that large house of his, that he may benefit from some company. 
Mentioning how there had never been a family to stay in the Marmora estate for an extended period, and the first that did so may possess a great deal of respect and civility to be invited to such a fine estate. Small tip bits and pebbles his mama could chew on while she chewed out Lance for whatever he did wrong during the Lord's visit this time. It seemed to be working. Even Veronica seemed to agree that maybe visiting Marmora was not such a bad idea, and would give them quite the reputation to be the first family to stay. The thought seemed to soothe his mama. Lance even got to be alone with only the Lord and Nancy last time the Lord came calling. Slowly Lance was earning back the trust from his mama once again. And now that the Lord had informed them that he was going away for two to three weeks because of business, his mama had finally let go of the reign enough so Lance felt he could breathe. Literally. This fine morning he was back in breaches and a shirt for what had seemed like a first in a lifetime. The house was lollinging, lazy, passing the time. Even Katherine was awake in her room, chatting away with mama, and playing cards. The birds were singing, the leaves were a wonderful gold colour, and the sun smiled in through Lance’s window, bathing him in a sunbeam as he sat and read his novel. Nothing would ruin this day. 

“The Lord is here!”
“What?!” Lance fell down from his chair with a thump, as Veronica stormed into the room. “Quick help me.” He threw down his trousers and pulled off his shirt, while his sister grabbed his armour. 
The one time he was free to wear pants, and the Lord came running. 
“He is not supposed to be back for another week.” Lance growled as he fumbled with the petticoat.
Urgent business had called the Lord back to the city with his brother, leaving Lance back for himself. Urgent meant not returning before expected. After almost a week with no sign of the Lord's return or messages, his mama finally lets Lance breathe a bit, and gave him a day to rest. A day without manner lessons, and without corsets. He had spent the day in his trousers, shirt, cravat and jacket, almost starting to finally feel like himself again. Only the small bracelet reminded him of the scheme. He could not bear to be without it. It was a part of him now. He would only relent it to Katherine when she would marry the Lord. That was what he told himself. Until then it was his. Even when it was not. Still Lord Kogane rode into the courtyard on his balck stallion in perfect form and radiant smile, ruining an otherwise perfect day off. The audacity of that man. Why did Lance fancy him again? Ridiculous. 

Veronica had just had time to cinch him up in the corset, and thrown some lace at him as they ran down the stairs. He grabbed the nearest bonnet and threw it on, as he dapped red on his lip in haste. Luckily he had shaved that morning and there was no trace of his stubs on his chin. A small grace. He did not have time to shave his whole face, before the lord became suspicious.  
It was only when he curtsied in front of the Lord that he noticed. He was not wearing his wig. He completely forgot about it, and from his sister's panicked expression she forgot about it too. There were no perfect curls bouncing at his ears, only his own plain hair. He was ruined. Lucky mama was up with Katherine saving them a scene, and Luis was out on a walk with his family, Nancy with them. Now Lance just had to keep up the ruse, until they could politely boot the Lord out of the door without mama ever knowing he had been there. 

Lord Kogane extended his arm, and they went to promenade in the garden, Veronica five steps behind them. Lance tried not to hyperventilate, between the bare brushes and decaying flower beds.   
Lord Kogane kept looking the other way, while Lance tried to shield his face and hair from the Lord’s watchful eyes, but the Lord was no fool this time. 
“What are you hiding?” He asked carefree, not even looking at him. 
“Nothing my Lord.” Lance stammered, eyes firmly planted on the ground.
“Are you sure?” The Lord asked with amusement.
Lance hummed agreeingly as he tried to pull the bonnet even further down his face, but a soft hand stopped him. He looked up to endless pools of violets that made his knees weak and throat dry. Why did this man have to be so damned tall? 
“There was a ….there was a ..” He desperately tried to think of something, but the Lords inched closer with agonizing slowness, so close Lance could count the lashes on his eyelids. Why was his bloody sister not interfering? Surely this must count as indecent behaviour, to use once preposterous height to hone in on young pliable females. 
“There was…. I ahem… I.. “ The Lord leaned further in, and Lance’s mind blanched.
“An accident my Lord!” He spat out. The Lord's eyes widened by surprise and perhaps a bit of alarm. 
“An accident, good lord, are you well?” Lance's mind once again went very blank, as the Lord got suddenly very worried and inspected his form trying to find what illed him, while Lance burned hot under every flicker from the Lord's eyes. But Lance brushed him off looking anywhere but the handsome lord. Where was his damned sister?

“I am perfectly fine my Lord, it is just...“ He pulled at the bonnet, laughing a bit manically, while still trying to keep his voice to match Katherine’s soothing level.. “My hair…..ahem.” 
He looked around, but his sister was nowhere around to help him, and he cursed her from deserting him, while the Lord still inspected him with scrutiny.
“What of it?” The Lord's tone sounded skeptical, and he was probably no longer in the mood for Lance’s vague explanation, if the scowl was anything to go about.
“Well. There is this new thing. Pidge told me about it. You see. You heat up a rod to help the shape of your natural curls …” Pidge knew stuff. Pidge was a possibly safe bet, but Lance was pretty sure they did not know nor cared about the newest fashion and beauty trends. Lance had heard Katherine gossip about this practice from what she had read in a society paper.
“Go on..” The Lord urged, stopping their walk to glare down at Lance.
“Well. The rod was.. Awfully hot… too hot.” He fumbled with his words.
“What do you mean?” 
‘Well, here goes nothing’ Lance thought to himself before committing to his story. 
“You promise not to mock me?“ He looked back up at the lord, with what he hoped to be a coy, embarrassed, pouty, flirtatious look. The Lord softened almost immediately.  
“I promise.” He smiled, making Lance shiver again. But he bit his lip and stood steadfast.
“You have to swear.”
”I swear.” 

Slowly Lance pulled off the bonnet, revealing his own short cut brown hair that curled lightly at his ears. It had been cut extra short to fit under the wigs, just another sacrifice in the name of his sister's honour that his mama demanded. He had been proud of his hair. It had never been as long as the lord’s, but it had been long enough to give the handsome sweep back style that was fashionable. Lance did not think his new short style was that crummy, but Lord Kogane just stared at him, frozen in place. Lance panicked.
“I swear I will have a wig ready before the wedding, you will never have to see me in such a frightful state again, I promise. It is simply hair. It will grow back… Please… Do not resent me because I am not beautiful anymore. “ There was not a chance that mama would let Katherine cut her hair, and a lady would never utter ‘it is simply hair.’ But Lance was thinking on his feet, and was not doing such with splendour.  
To his surprise the Lord exploded with laughter, and Lance grieved his demise. 
A warm gentle hand took his and lifted it to his lips, plating a soft kiss there, looking longingly into Lance's eyes, like he was searching for the world in them.
“You will always be beautiful to me.”
Lance's heart fluttered, and his breathing got shallow. Lance had officially fallen. It was like it had been with Allura all over again. The Lords was so close still. Then he suddenly pulled back, leaving behind a staggered and bewildered Lance.
“And do not be silly. It is just mere hair. It will grow back.” He shrugged. Lance blinked the confusion off him and nodded. 
“Right. So you think it will be alright then.” 
The Lord repeated the carefree motion, a bored expression on his face. “I have no opinion of that.“ Then he returned his gaze to Lance, with a new glint in his eyes. He crossed his arms tanderlising. 
“Still I have been thinking of something.” Lord Kogane bobbed his head, tapping a finger to his chin. Lance croaked out a rushed, “Yes.” Too loudly and too bashfully.
“Of our engagement.“
The Lord’s words made Lance’s inside turn cold with fear. “Oh no.” He breathed. 
“I think since we are to be wedded, and we have come to think so well of each other… I think you should call me Keith when we are alone.”
That was not what Lance had expected, and his cheeks’ burst scarlet at the insinuation. 
“My Lord!!!” 

Lord Kogane, Keith laughed at Lance's embarrassment and brushed him off with a slight of hand. The man grinned widely while Lance grabbed his skirts in pure panic and incredulousness.
“Please.” Keith laughed and reached for Lance’s hand, holding it between his in between them. “It is a matter close to my heart. I want you to be able to feel safe in my presence and able to be yourself.“
Himself? Lance scowled inwardly. Lance would never be able to be himself in the Lord’s, in Keith’s presence, despite his trusting kind eyes. Not in a way where the Lord would still care for Lance's company the way he cared for Katherine’s. Still despite the manner in which this man vexed Lance, he still wanted to be able to say his name. To be called his own name by the man’s lips.  
“And you would like to call me by my given name?” His voice was a bare whisper between them. Keith nodded.
“If you let me, yes.“ Keith reached out and ran a slow alluring finger down Lance's cheek caressing the skin.
“Would you? Would you give me the honour of calling you Katherine?”
It hurt, but Lance nodded anyway. If he was lucky maybe one day the Lord would say his name but for now. “Yes, you may, my Lor…. Keith.” 
The soft smile on Keith's face only hurt more, and he leaned in towards Lance's face. For a minute Lance wondered if Keith may kiss him. Deep, tantalising with passion? But Keith adjusted and hit the corner of Lance's mouth as he aimed his cheek. When they were once more than a foot apart, Lance could not help but simply stare at the man. Air caught in his lungs, with a need burning inside, wanting something he could not have. Keith was also unusually quiet. Looking down on Lance with that soft indecipherable look. He took a step forward into Lance's vicinity. Then one more, so they were standing only a breath away. Lance watched as Keith hand lifted and ran over Lance’s forehead, down his cheek until it stopped, to play with the end of the hair that curled at Lance’s ear. Feeling it between his fingers, inspecting it, while Lance was caught in a daze just watching him. The hand fell to Lance’s shoulder, and another joined on Lance’s other shoulder. Lance was trapped. He swallowed, awaiting the inevitable, anticipating it, wanting it. Lance closed his eyes, inhaling in exhilaration.
Then Keith faltered.

Lance opened his eyes to see the Lord very close, but looked crossed with confusing at his own nose. Lance frowned at him. Then felt something cold drip on his hand. Then his hair. The sound of pitter patter started around then, and they both looked up as the sky opened up around them. They jumped apart with a yell, and Lance squealed as his skirts and dress started to soak through. Keith yanked off his jacket with force, and held it up as a shield over them both to protect them from the heavens. Lance steeped in close and gathered up his skirts. Then the both dashed for the house, without saying one more word to each other, beside the childish screaming and laughter from both of them. 

Chapter Text

Krolia had still not responded to Keith’s invite to spend the holiday at Marmora. Not even a letter of acknowledgement. Keith knew she was short of words but even he thought it was odd not to hear anything from her at this point. When they had been in town for business, he had sent her another letter, but nothing had come off that either. Keith proposed for Shiro to visit her, and his brother had paled by the suggestion. All while his brother feared the winter season, Keith had to say he looked forward to it. Especially with the probability that they would be joined by Katherine. She was still working on getting approval from her mother, and it was going excruciatingly slow for Keith's normal temper. In a fit he had finished off his business quicker than expected and dashed to Katherine’s side. He had expected to be met with open arms, or a smile at least. 
Instead he was met with a jumbled and flushed fiance. Her recent mishaps had only confirmed his preferences. She looked much better with short hair. It highlighted her cheekbones and angular face and made her look, well, less female. It had been a shock, mostly because of how agreeable Keith found it. He had no choice but to look. To touch. Good graces he almost kissed her. Thanks to the heaven for stopping that. Who knows what would have happened if the rain had not surprised them.
Still when they saw each other, passing in the local town, and when he came calling, she looked much more at ease. She still hid her hair when outside, but inside she was much more relaxed. Epically dare he say with him. It gave him joy to hear her speak his name. It made it seem like they were friends, instead of two peoples thrown together for the rest of their lives because of others' promises. She would still poke at him, flaring up his temper, their game still a foot. But that was the best of their time together when they seemingly did not get along. It was much more exciting not knowing what to expect. 
Katherine must have worked at least some kind of magic on her mama, because when he arrived at her house on his next visit, she stood alone in front of it, smiling expectantly at him, more finely dressed then he had ever seen her. No chaperone in sight.

“Would you like to go somewhere with me today?”
Her eyes sparkled and Keith could not deny her. He could never deny her. So he nodded and opened his carriage door for her and she stepped onto the carriage. Before entering, she diligently handed over a piece of parchment to the driver and sat back relaxed inside the vehicle. 
Keith joined her and sat back in his own seat, studying her. 
“Are you gonna tell me where we are faring?”
She shook her head with a grin.
“Where is your sense of adventure my lord?”
She smiled at him, in that way that showed she held a secret. Keith shook his head in indignation, but let the driver carry on. While they drove, Keith took note of her extraordinary fine ensemble. There were even fresh flowers, a feather and new laces in her large green silk hat. It was pinned on, but still a little too large to her, and her lovely face almost disappeared under the brim. Still her short curls showed near the ears. 
She wore new laces, gloves, and a tight dusty green coat over her fine pastel light blue dress. There was not a spec of dust on it. No dirt, and no mud. Even her nails were clean and rounded perfectly. This was where Keith noticed he had been staring at her impeccable form for too long, to look up to see her impervious smile, and her devious eyes glint at him.
“Does my appearance please you my Lord?” The way she said ’my lord’, sent tingles down his back. Like the way he said, ‘my dear’. She had long since taken to calling him Keith, so this was only to vex him.
Keith huffed and looked the other way, but he felt the burn in his cheeks. The lady tittered at him. It still eluded him why Lady Katherine held such a grip over his heart. The smallest smile and he was all a titter, wanting her to have everything, wanting to give her everything just to see her smile at him like that again. 

She moved over to sit next to him, bracing her hand on his shoulder. She looked outside the window the other direction, into the landscape, but Keith noticed her well placed gloved hand in her lab. He smiled and reached over for it, intertwining their hands together, still looking away from her. He got an appreciative squeeze back, and the barest hitch of breath. She was also cinched up today as always, so tight, and so covered that Keith's mind once more was playing tricks on him. Keith had tried to forsake such traitorous and hellish thoughts, after she revealed her new hair style, but they still haunted him, reminding him of his own selfish desires. They talked very little the rest of the trip, and simply enjoyed the journey.

They stopped at a church in Qitan, a town not too far from their own county. The bells were calling to service, but there was no communion waiting to join. He looked to his fiance who was standing, letting Thace lead her down the steps. What was happening? Was this a wedding? Who was getting married? Were they getting married? Good god, were they eloping. A lump formed in his throat. 
“Katherine.” She ignored him and hummed as she walked towards the church. 
“Katherine.” He said again more strongly, she hummed acknowledging but looked down. Keith corrected his cravat that felt very snug suddenly and followed her down, and stopped her right just before she entered the church. 

“What are we doing here?” His grip on her arm was firm, but she continued to look the other way “Katherine.” He warned and she finally looked at him. 
“My best friend is getting married today. And mama would not let me go.”
Keith was caught by surprise, and was not sure how to react to the information. They were not getting married. Was he pleased with this or was he maybe … a little disappointed? 
“And you were afraid I would not let you either, if you would have told me?”
She looks shyly down, but Keith knew he was right. He shook his head, and extended his arm. “Come on then.” Her eyes sparkled and they entered together. 

They had barely turned inside before the woman squealed like thunder, and ran up the aisle to throw her arms around a bear in human form.
“HUNK!!” The man caught her and grabbed her into a bear hug. 
“La…...Kat you made it.” The bear briefly looked towards Keith, to nod politely, still with his arms around Keith's fiance. Keith nodded back. 
“Of course. I would not miss it for the world.“ Katherine laughed at the bear as they broke their hug. Behind them the vicar boobed his head respectfully at Keith in greeting.
It was hard to look at Katherine at this moment as she looked happier than Keith had ever seen her. Even when she unwrapped her rifle.
The groom looked back at her relieved and held onto her hands, while they whispered together about how good it is to see each other. A petty jealousy bloomed in Keith’s chest, but it was quickly squashed as he was pulled before the giant by Katherine.
“May I present my fiance Lord Keith Kogane.” 
“Pleasure.” Keith nodded. The bear nodded back. He was clearly dressed in his finest, but it still had several patches on the pants, and on the jacket. The shirt was old and well loved, with a small stain at the edge. It spread tight over the man’s massive chest, but everything else was clean and pressed to perfection. The man was freshly shaved giving room for his round face, and his hair folded back over his head. He was even darker than Katherine, but his eyes sparkled orange with intelligence, making him think of Pidge with that studying expression. The man had the biggest hands Keith had ever seen, and he lived with Shiro. 

“What do you say, Hunk? Have I not found a fine match? Maybe not as good as Shay, but I would say I did quite well for myself.” Katherine boosted, hanging off Keith’s arm not noticing the tension between the two men.
To Keith’s surprise the man burst into laughter. 
“Nothing can beat my Shay.” He said proudly, every word emphasising his love and respect for his future wife. Katherine places a hand on her forehead in dramatics.
“Yes I know, but let me dream.“ 
“My lord.” Keith turned his attention towards Katherine. She gestures to the groom. 
“This is my best friend James Garret, but I like to call him Hunk. He is the luckiest man to have walked these halls, and not only because I call him friend, but because he gets the honour of marrying Miss Shay. The most gentle, wonderful and soul to ever live.” The man, Hunk, flushed red, but Katherine just laughed at him. 
Keith could not help but to share her joy. The vicar cleared his throat, and Katherine quickly dampened down. They took their place behind Hunk, and rose as the bride entered under the church bells. Katherine quietly corrected Hunk’s jacket, and whispered caring words of encouragement before also she turned to look at the bride. 

Miss Shay was taller than Keith expected, and towered over her future husband by almost a head, but Hunk looked starstruck like she hung the moon and stars. She had the kindest eyes ever seen, and walked with the grace of a queen, even as happy tears trailed down her cheeks. Her brother walked her up. Her smile was soft and gentle, like it hid a secret in the corner of the mouth that only Hunk would know. She thanked Katherine who handed her a handkerchief. Katherine then pulled off her large hat with ribbons and flowers and feathers, and neatly plopped it down on the top of Shay’s head. It fit perfectly over the women’s dark brown hair. Then Katherine took Keith's arm again, and beamed as the ceremony commenced. She was almost obliviated in tears herself when Hunk kissed his new wife, and Keith had to support her out of the church for bare quivers. The ceremony was wonderful, and private even if they and Shay’s brother were the only witness. Katherine shone like the sun the entire time, and Keith had trouble keeping his eyes on the ceremony instead of the woman on his arm. Keith took in the sight of the happy new couple. Their love was evident even to a blind person. They way they looked at each other. There was nothing false there. Only pure love. Keith could only hope one day for Katherine to look at him like that, but the thought was impossible. Their marriage was strictly political in the end. A favour and transaction. He would not let himself hope to that extent, he would only break her heart.

There was no feast afterwards, only thanks and tears filled farewells. Keith found out that the couple had been thrown out of their lodgings and had to jump on the next post wagon to the next city to find work and beds. So Hunk hugged Katherine goodbye, himself all convulsed in tears in a hug so fierce Keith might fear it would break her. It did not. 
“Promise to write to me. Even though you are surely too busy being Mr. Shay.” Katherine sobbed, dapping her eyes with Keith’s already drenched handkerchief.
“Never too busy to write to you.” Hunk heaved. His wife scoffed at him, and laid a reassuring hand on Katherine’s arm. She was more composed than the two friends put together.
“Do not worry. I will take care of him, and make him write to you. Or I will write to you myself.”
“You will do that nevertheless.” Katherine beamed through tears. “I expect letters from both of you Mr. and Mrs. Garret.” 
The couple looked heartwarmingly at each other and Keith had to hold his composure not to melt at the bare sight. 

Then Keith and Lance entered the carriage to reach home before it got too dark. Katherine leaned out of the carriage window to grasp Hunk’s hand as the carriage started to move. Hunk walked a couple of paces before letting go of Katherine's hand. They waved at each other until the carriage turned down the road and was unable to be seen from the church. 
Katherine sat down with a soft thud, and rubbed at her eyes, trying to hide the tears that spilled down her cheeks. Keith reached around her, and she leaned over to rest her head on his shoulder. 
“Who knows when I will see him again.” She sobbed into his jacket.

Chapter Text

He had cried on Keith's shoulder. Sod it all. And the man had comforted him. Be still his treacherous heart. Lance really was getting too comfortable with letting his feelings run wild around the man. But still this was Hunk’s wedding. There would never be something like it again. He may never see Hunk again. How far would they have to go before they could find a place to call their own. The other side of the county, or the other side of the country. Maybe they even have to leave to search further. Who knew. Lance would support Hunk in whatever the man needed to do to achieve a stable and comfortable living for him and his new bride. But the thought to be so far away was almost unbearable. He was his brother in anything but blood, and Lance would do anything for his siblings. 
He had been most fortunate to participate. Bless his twin. Katherine would have none of Lance sitting out of his best friend's wedding, and together they weaved up their scheme. 

Despite the weather turning colder, she had more flush to her cheeks and was able to stay awake for longer periods of time. She used this to her advantage by claiming herself very ill. Sick over the floor ill. And it sent the family into a frenzy where all eyes turned on her. It always worked. Katherine sang, and the family came jumping to her side to do her bidding. She had made a most dramatic performance worthy of the theatre, and mama, Veronica and Luis were glued to her bed side, where she moaned, complained and groaned in displeasure and incoherence. Enough for Lance to slip out as Keith came calling, and the two of them well on their way to Hunk’s ceremony.
No one noticed they had disappeared. Only Luis crooked an eyebrow when the Lord suddenly appeared in their entry way with a red eyed but happy ‘Katherine’. 

With Kat’s miraculous recovery, mama instantly became in a better and more pliable mood, so the next time the Lord came calling, Lance pulled him discreetly aside, as they greeted each other in the hallway. Keith smiled as Lance leaned into kiss the air next to his cheek. But in truth Lance quietly laid out instructions for him to follow. Precision was key.
“Listen carefully.” He breathed over Keith’s ear, feeling the other man's shift.
“After mama’s second cup of tea, it would be very convenient for you to mention that the estate feels more empty in the cold season.“
Lance changed sides, and hovered over Keith's other ear, breath tickling the soft skin.
“Then you will casually mention that you have not had company over to stay for an extended period before, and that you would be delighted to finally see some life in the house. Please mention how big, extravagant and how many rooms there are in the house. Oh, and how expensive it would be to have a dinner party.”
Keith nodded dutifully but in an easy way so it would not be noticed.
“Then when my mother has expressed her most heartfelt sympathies, that is when you express your desire to have her, and my family over for a dinner party near the solstice celebration. As part of getting our families closer together. Also mention how many most important and influential socialites you plan to invite.“ 
Keith extended his elbow and led Lance towards the sitting room. 
“Then you have to express the most expressive regret that I, your most beloved fiance, can not stay further, since it would be most inappropriate. And how you so dearly wish I would spend the rest of the celebration with you and your brother, at least into the new year.” Lance looked around the room smiling, as they glided inside. Keith leaned closer to hear him speak under his breath.
“And then maybe contemplate that if there was a lady in the house, then maybe your revered step mother Lady Krolia Kogane may finally visit, and bring with her a load of very handsome, rich and influential acquaintances, that will want it to come calling on her.”
Lance delivered the last instruction breathlessly, as they joined his family and Lance sat dutifully and smiling in between his mama and Veronica, smiling softly and agreeing with everything his mama said. The Lord took an armchair near his brother Mr. Shirogane and Luis, with the ladies across spread over the floral couch and ornate settee.

Keith performed his role to perfection and followed the carefully laid out plan with excellency, and Lance was quite impressed with the anecdotes and slew of significant acquaintances the Lord produced from supposedly thin air. His mama was enthralled and listened to his every word nodding and flattering at every step. And within the hour they had all agreed that the family would come to dine at Marmora with a larger party of the Lord's closest acquaintances. And of course to further please the Lord, his mama promised that Lance or rather Katherine would come and spend time before and after. Only Mr. Shirogane looked slightly bewildered, watching the vivid interaction between his brother and Lance’s mama like he was watching a tennis court, eyes darting back and forth. Lance kept his smile plastered on the entire time, digging his nails into his palms to hide his anxiety and not spoil the delicate situation.

The second the Lord and Mr. Shirogane had left, Lance’s mama pulled Lance aside and insisted that he stayed at least a month at Marmora, and did nothing to embarrass them and ended up sent home before time. He would have to feign sickness if he must to ensure his continuous stay. Lance made a minor show to protest for his mother’s sake, but in the end his mama ‘won’, walking away with a confident satisfied smirk. She did not notice her son sporting the exact same grin as she walked away. 

So at the start of the last month of the year, all of Katherine’s finest belongings were packed up, so Lance could wear and use them at the appropriate times during his stay at the Lord’s estate. While mama, and Veronica packed the trunk, Lance sat in front of the vanity with Katherine yawning, bored out of her mind from the bed. While skirts, hats, laces, shoes, dresses, undergarments, corsets, ribbons and such got packed, Mama interrogated Lance, making him sure he remembered all of the acquaintances the Lord had mentioned, that could or would come visiting during the stay. Lance was expected to know their full name and occupation, yearly income, noteworthy family connections and be able to recognise them on sight. So he grumbled over the fan of miniatures spread over the vanity. How mama had procured them, Lance did not want to know. Sometimes it was better not to ask. This session was strictly speaking also for Katherine to learn the same names and facts, but she claimed she was suffering the most dreadful headache unable to remember a thing. Lance knew she was faking it, as she winked triumphantly at him, when mama looked the other way. In between the frantic packing and questioning, Lance managed to sneak some of his own personal belongings into Katherine’s trunk. His books, some pen and paper and even the rifle, hidden between several layers of dresses. All shiny and new, of the latest fashion, because Katherine deserved the best, even if Lance had to wear all his clothes handed down from his brothers. Mama proclaimed that she never favoured any of her children, but Lance knew who was their favourite. Everyone knew. No one could quite make mama purr like Katherine. 
The day before Lance was to depart for Mamora with Nancy as chaperone, Nancy tripped down the last couple of stairs and sprained her ankle. She had been herding Lance’s spirited niece and nephew into the dining room for supper, when Sylvester slipped on the stairs he had ran down with joyous laughter. Nancy caught him, saving him from a nasty fall, but took the fall herself, causing a severe bruise on her ankle. She was put on bed rest for the foreseeable future by Veronica, unable to walk, and certainly not chaperone. 
What came next was the longest, loudest, most exhausting and aggravating discussion Lance had ever been part of. But after two hours, of almost screaming, snide comments, deathing argumentation and endless promises, Lance for once won. He was allowed to go alone. No chaperone, no supervision, just pure blissed freedom. 

Beaming, he went out the next day to take in the winter sun and wait for the carriage to be brought around, only to see the Kogane carriage trot into their courtyard. Lord Kogane sprang from its interior, and two footmen sprang from the back, to fetch Lance’s belongings for the trip. Keith beamed at him, and Lance per reflex extended his hand for Keith to kiss. 
“Quickly, before she changes her mind.” The Lord said after pressing his lips to the back of Lance’s hand. He opened the door to the carriage, and helped him inside, as the rest of the family joined outside to wave goodbye. The footmen secured the luggage and then they were off. 

“I will see you all very soon.” Lance called waving from the window. The rest of his family waved, but his mama looked rather pale, clutching a handkerchief to her chest, eyes looking bloodshot. Lance briefly wondered if she had been crying. But soon all that was forgotten, as a hand intertwined naturally with his own. Lance turned to look at Keith, but Keith looked the other way from their intertwined hands, eyes set on the passing landscape. A light pink tinge was glowing and his cheek.  
They travelled for a good hour, before Lance felt the need to break the silence. Even though Lance and Keith were good at arguments, teasing and throwing insults at each other to the others' vexation, Lance had come to acknowledge that Keith preferred silence. 

“You did not have to trouble yourself to come to pick me up.” Lance commented, eyes on their still intertwined hands.
“Indeed I had to. I had to make sure the rest of your family did not sneak on board the carriage with you.” Keith grinned at Lance, mischief dancing in his brilliant lavender eyes. Lance had to hold back not to reach out for a lock of hair that had escaped its brethren from the tie in the back.
“You are all so close.” Keith said, making Lance nod, the silence between them saying more than words.
“We are.” 
Keith moved a bit closer to Lance in the carriage, reaching over for Lance’s other hand. Lance smiled, but the air felt hot and calm between them, and he could feel his cheek burn aflame.
“But I do want to have a moment alone with you, and for you to settle before your family joins us for dinner tomorrow.” Keith leaned in further, radiating his rougeness and handsomeness.
“Oh. You are scheming again, good Sir.” Lance chuckled as Keith's face lit up.
“I have a surprise for you.”
“You should not have?” Lance deadpanned, but struggled to hide the amusement in his soft mutter. Keith shrugged and retrieved his hand, shaking his head in a carefree manner.
“It was more of a practical need from my part, but you may find some joy in the end.”
“How thoughtful.” Lance said only mildly annoyed, but Keith just laughed at him and the carriage carried on. 

“Look outside.” Keith pointed as they neared the estate, and Lance leaned over to look outside the window. 
A large familiar figure was waving his arms in greeting as the carriage took the last turn into the driveway in front of the estate. 
“HUNK!!” Lance shrilled, fighting the urge to jump out of the carriage to jump into Hunk’s arms. 
He instead turned to the Lord, who sneered back with a satisfied grin. 
“You hired him!!” He asked suspiciously. 
“I found myself in need of more help with the horses. Old’s Mr. Maguire’s knee almost gave out last month, and even with two stable hands, they are still too young and too inexperienced to be promoted. Mr. Garret had excellent references and was willing to start right away.”
Lance was speechless for only a moment.
“You have no idea what this means to me.” Lance grabbed Keith’s hands painfully, but Lance did not care. He needed Keith to understand just how much this meant. This may have been a ploy to get into Katherine’s good graces, but it was Lance’s fealty he won. After his own family kicked his friend out, this meant more than any necklace or book or rifle in the world. 

The carriage slowed down as Hunk jogged to meet them. The footman had not even had time to open the carriage door before Lance forced it open and leaped from the steps. He landed, hiked up his skirts and jumped into Hunk’s waiting arms. Hunk hugged him in his strong arms, and everything seemed right again. Lance knew it was silly and inappropriate. They were not kids anymore. Even as a gentleman, Lance should have greeted Hunk with a handshake, maybe even a friendly pat on the back. It it mattered not. Lance had been so afraid he would never see Hunk again, and to have his friend here with him, healthy and safe and sound was all that mattered.  Lance just noticed that Hunk wore a new purple handkerchief sticking up out of his breast pocket.
“You are here.” He buried his useless tears into Hunk’s neck, his dark hair ticking his face.
“I am here.” Hunk sighed, and held Lance out in arms reach, fixing his hat and ribbons.
“How long have you.. how….Where is Shay?” Lance babbled while gripping on tight to Hunk’s shirt shelves. It was new, he noted happily. 
“She got hired too. She is working in the kitchen.” Lance raised an eyebrow. What was Shay doing in the Kitchen? And what was Hunk doing out of it? 
“Have you not taken over the kitchen yet?” Lance spoke carefully, mirth in his tone.
“Hush…” Hunk looked around afraid someone would hear them.
“I was hired to help with the horses, and I will do so.” He said with the utmost respect for his new employer. Lance gave him a knowing look. Hunk may have experience with horses after working in the McClain estate, but where his real talent lay, was in the kitchen. Lance would have to make Keith see the light before the end of his stay. And Mrs. Shay… ? Mrs. Shay was going to be good in whatever endeavour she set her mind to, and would be just fine. Lance smiled nevertheless and leaned conspiratory near his ear, the old familiarity already making him feel mischievous. 
“But you will bake me gingerbread cookies.” 
Hunk grinned. 
“But I will make you gingerbread cookies.”
“You are my best friend in the whole world.” Hunk indulged in one more hug, before leading Lance back to Keith who was overseeing the luggage being brought inside. He was waiting with the stern butler, and tight looking woman that Lance recognized as the young housekeeper, flanked by two maids. The servants stood a respectful step behind Keith who greeted his brother, just as Lance also joined them. 

The servants bowed respectfully as Hunk helped Lance up the stairs, making Keith turn around to greet them. Hunk winked at Lance then sped down the stairs again to help with the carriage. Lance had to stop himself from hitting him on the shoulder on the way down. Instead he turned on the coy Katherine smile and beamed at Mr. Shirogane. 
“Mr. Shirogane, a pleasure as always.” He curtsied, voice back to being pleasant and melodious. 
“Please Miss Katherine, the pleasure is as always mine, and please.” He reached out for Lance's hand. “We talked about this. We are to be family. If you can call my brother by his given name, you can call me by mine. Call me Shiro.”
“Shiro then. Thank you for coming out to welcome me.” Lance titled his head. The other man looked paler than when he last saw him. Maybe it was the season, and not enough sun. 
Lance squished the hand holding his, trying to ignore the other that was not there. Shiro wore a dark shirt today, and a black velvet embroidered waistcoat. No jacket as he had properly been inside near the fire. The empty shirt sleeve was as always pinned with precision. Despite his pristine attire, Lance worried for his health, then Shiro smiled at him, and Lance's mind was at ease again. 
“Of course.” 
Really the man was a giant, Lance thought to himself. A handsome giant, with a very well sculped bicep.
Keith cleared his throat to demand their attention, and his brother rolled his eyes, but let go of Lance’s hands to grin at his brother. Keith ignored him and extended his arm towards the butler and housekeeper.
“You remember Kolivan and Axca.” They both bowed at the presentation. 
“Indeed. How do you do?” Lance greeted them.
“If you need anything during your stay, please reach out to them, and they will make it happen.” Lance nodded at Keith, as the butler took a step forward.
“I must see to some other business.” Kolivan bowed and was off. Lance was surprised by the familiarity. Shiro also bowed once more at Lance, winked at his brother, and then left to move on with his day.
“Good day my lady.” Axca bowed. “I will make sure your belongings are unpacked. Miss Ezor will be acting as your lady maid, in absence of your own.”
Miss Ezor was a lovely young lady, with a bubbly smile, and orange, almost red curls under her bonnet. Like the rest of the female staff she was wearing a deep purple dress with a white laced apron. The male staff was wearing mostly suits or uniforms in the same purple hue. Or clothes made to match a purple cravat, or handkerchief in the purple Marmora colour signifying their belonging to the household. The house keeper could not match her maid’s bobbly smile, her own smile careful and strained, but welcoming. She wore the same dress as the maid, but with no apron. Her dark hair was styled and pinned on her head, and a pair of rimmed glasses hung around her neck. Both women were in their own way very beautiful and in another situation Lance would have gone out of his way to pursue them. But not in his current predicament. More matters were more imperative. 
“No need.” Lance almost spit out, flushed all over. Both Keith and the servants stiffened at his outburst. Lance giggled unnaturally and waved a hand in front of them. “I would like not to be a burden. I am sure I can manage myself. “
“If my lady is certain.” Acxa lifted a curious perfect arched eyebrow.
“Most certain.” Lance cackled trying to hold onto his bearings. The last thing he needed was for one of Keith’s staff to see what Lance hid under all the layers of clothing and then tell the Lord about it. Lance would manage to dress himself somehow.
“Would the Lady like to rest up a bit before tea? The journey must have been trying.” The housekeeper added. Lance relaxed at her concerned tone.
“Thank you.“ The maid bowed and gestured for Lance to follow. Keith stayed back to exchange a couple of words with the housekeeper, before rushing up to join Lance as they walked up the grand stars in the hallway, and further down exquisite decorated halls, decedent with portraits, art and windows larger than any in Lance’s house. 

Ezor walked in front of them to give them some privacy to converse, her curls bouncing with each step. Lance felt up his own sad excuse of tufts of hair near his ear, that would do no such thing as bouncing as prettily as the sight before them. He enjoyed not having to wear the wigs, but he felt lacking in his own hair growth and would never match any lady in this house, no matter what stature. Keith luckily did not seem to mind. Lance still tried to decorate his hair with some ribbons, but mostly it was a hopeless endeavour according to his mother. Today he had hid his hair under a less excessive hat, meaning there was only one feather adorning it, and some lace around his head to keep the chill at bay, paired with a fur puff for his hands. As they walked closer to his new living quarters, Keith frowned at him. Lance had trouble not smiling at the pout.
“You will require a ladies maid while you are here.” He insisted. Lance tsked.
“There is no such need for that. I am perfectly capable of dressing on my own.” Lance hoped the statement held some truth. But Keith did not let himself be quelled.
“Still I insist. While you are here, you should be cared for, my dear.”
The endearment was thrown on with a definite finalisation, to assert dominance and control in conversation. Lance was not a demure lady fawning over the lord. He knew how to fight back.
“My Lord.” He turned to bat his eyes at the Lord relishing in the blush on the Lord’s cheeks.
”And I reassured you, there is no need.” Still Keith railed, not to be fooled at Lance's vague attempt at flirtatious behaviour.
“Are you questioning the capability of my staff?“ Keith extended his hand towards the ladies maid Ezor. Lance blustered and almost missed a step in his mess of skirts. Fortunately Keith was near and he grabbed onto his arm for support. Keith did nothing to recognize the misstep and they continued down the path arm in arm, glaring sparks at each other.
“Of course not, but you clearly do not think highly of me.” Lance harrumphed dramatically in a fashion befitting his mama.
“You are certain?” Keith scowled, and Lance knew he had triumphed in this round.
“Quite.”
“Well if you are certain.” Lance nodded, and Keith sighed. “Mrs. Shay will be so disappointed.” Lance almost fell again, only saved by the strong arms he was holding on to. 
“What???!!!” 
Keith helped straighten Lance up and they continued as nothing had happened.
“Yes, she volunteered. She is already a maid, but I will not mind raising her to a ladies maid, since you are so familiar, but then…”
Lance’ nails dug into Keith’s arms despite the gloves he was wearing and the layers of cloth on the said arm.
“I want Shay!!” He demanded, making Keith stop in surprise. 
“Ahe….”
“Please……” Then with much more dignity Lance added. “Let me have Shay as my ladies maid.“ He let his hand wander up and down Keith's arm in hope to persuade him.
They both could just barely hear Ezor strangle a chuckle. 
They both ignored her and Keith nodded confirming and Lance smiled relieved back up at him, retrieving his nails from Keith’s jacket. They joined Ezor in front of the double doors to Lance's room. She opened the door to the Lance chamber, and stepped back. Lance's mouth fell open, as the room was plural. 

Just beyond the doors, there was a little sitting area where Lance could receive a visitor or two, and behind that sat a writing desk and a few ornate turquoise cabinets next to two large windows. A door to the left led into the sleeping chamber, with a four postered bed, and an adjourning dressing room and private washing room holding a large porcelain tub. There was ornate gold trimmings on every surface, large mirrors along the walls, with large chandeliers from the ceilings, and even a couple of candelabras in between the mirrors on the walls. Those who were not adorned with mirrors bore large paintings of landscapes, beautiful mountains and divine oceans. There even was an empty bookcase in the same turquoise colour for Lance to put his books in. His large bed was hung with deep blue drapes and the bedding and cushions looked luxurious and soft. Lance had to keep his baring just not to dive into them to test their softness. He instead pulled off a glove and ran a finger over the soft material, all in awe. Out of the corner of his eye he saw a door, made into the wall, with the tiniest ornate golden keyhole. He had quite some ideas of where that would lead to. 

While Lance had wandered around the beautiful rooms, Keith remained at the entryway. He cleared his throat, demanding Lance attention. Lance pulled off his hat and gloves and joined him back in the first room.
“I have to leave, to take care of some business. But I will see you for tea?” He looked so handsome in the light from the windows. 
“Most definitely.” Lance agreed.
“Good.” Keith coughed behind his fist, but did not move from his spot. 
“Alright then.” Lance nodded, folding his hands in front of his skirts. 
“Yes. Quite..” Keith looked uncomfortable around the rooms, before shaking his head and then flying out the door. “I will see you then.”
“Bye my Lord.” Lance waved briefly. Then Ezor bowed and closed the doors behind her, leaving Lance alone. Lance held his bearing for only enough time to pass to make sure he was truly alone. Then he ran back to the bedchamber and jumped onto the bed laughing and giggling uncontrollably, hugging the soft pillows against his face. This place was unbelievable. And he had it all to himself. Well mostly to himself. He eyed the keyhole suspiciously before he buried his aflame face into the silky smooth bedding again, suffocating his groan.

Chapter Text

Lance managed to extract himself from the comfortable bed and went to put away his hat and gloves. He had just unbuttoned his coat and folded it, when there was a knock on the door. 
“Miss McClain?” A soft recognizable voice asked. Lance ran back out and opened the door for her, dragging Shay inside.
The door had barely closed behind them before Shay was over him.
“Well you have certainly done it now. “
“Tell me about it.” Lance dralled, not bothering hiding his natural voice when he was with Shay. She reached out and they embraced. Hunk and Shay told each other everything. She probably knew Lance just as well as Hunk. There was no hiding from this woman. He felt small in her large but comforting embrace. 
“I really do not need a ladies maid.” He said with a smile, as he let go of her.
“You need one to cinch you in, make sure you put on both your stockings and not forget to put on lace and make sure you do not humiliate yourself. Do not fret, I will take care of you.“
“I do not deserve you.” Lance mumbled into her embrace. She chuckled and patted him on his head like he was a child. 

“So is this about Katherine.” Shay said as she put away Lance's clothes.
“It is always about Katherine.“ Lance commented from his spot in the bed. 
“That mother of yours.” Shay huffed disapprovingly. It was unnerving. Shay was always kind, and she never disapproved of people always seeing the best in everyone, even those who did not deserve it.
Lance’s trunks had been brought in by two strong looking footmen, who left in a hurry, one of them blushing when he looked at Lance. Shay had gone to work immediately and started to unpack. Lance had tried to help, but after he unfolded, and refolded the first two dresses incorrectly, he was gently but firmly instructed to stay on the bed, so he was in no harm's way. Shay shook her head sadly and lay out a new dress for Lance to wear for tea. 

“Why can she not just move on.”
Lance raised a confused eyebrow as Shay put out a new set of slippers.  
“What?” He asked gently, hand reaching for his bracelet in comfort. Shay shrugged as she dug around for lace.
“Your father only passed last spring, but she has been grieving for years. Even before your father. But I think this is a little extensive.” She gestured to Lance in his getup. 
“Why can she not just let it go?”
Lance continued to look at her with puzzlement, as she helped him up and out of the dress. Lance would have been a little flushed at her seeing his delicates if had it not been an incident prior. 
Lance had visited Hunk just after Hunk had been let go, and they had both then drunk out of their minds and ended the night, getting stuck in an oak tub, both naked, trying to wash off some horse excrement after they had gotten in a fight in a tavern. Shay had come to help them out and demand her tub back. Hunk had been smitten ever since. There was nothing she had not seen. She had seen him, beaten, humbled and at his most vulnerable and still she reached out her hand to Lance and Hunk. The woman was headstrong, clever and in no way sensible. She had hosed them down, gotten them sober and was a friend for life ever since. 
Lance lifted his arms as the green dress rose around him.
“If she left the house, and moved to something smaller, it would probably also be better for Katherine, then the rest of you would be free to find your own way of living. You have enough that you can live comfortably with a cook and a maid. I do not comprehend why she keeps insisting you need more.”  
The new dress, a crème colored delicate thing, went over the petticoats and corset, and Shay went to close the back, simultaneously ensuring Lance's insides remained constricted and tight.
“A small house means smaller expenses, even with her yearly income from your brother, she is entitled to, I think she could make do.” Lance turned around for Shay to help drown him in lace again. 
“But instead she is stuck inside that house holding on to a ghost of her husband, and what she used to be. But things are different now. Your brother is the owner of the house now, but your mother still runs it like it belongs to her.“ A white ribbon was bound around Lance’s head and short hair, and Shay took extra care to place a couple small white flowers near his ear as adornment.
“No disrespect to your mama, but she should perhaps release the past. She is causing you all more harm and strife in the end, clinging on to old memories and a lifestyle she thinks she is entitled to.“ The last flower went in and Lance looked at Katherine’s reflection in the mirror. She looked grief stricken. 
“Do you believe so?” He spoke softly, smoothing out the soft fabric.
“Yes, but who am I to call judgement?“ Shay sent him one more encouraging smile, before Lance went down to find the Lord and his brother for tea.

Lance had only just come down a pair of stairs before he was stopped. A shadowy figure lingered at the door to the parlour where tea was to be served.
“So…. you are like me.” The figure said.
“I beg your pardon.” Lance asked befuddled, as Pidge Holt revealed themselves from the shadows. They wore overalls a little too big for them, and a dark cap over their short chopped wild brown hair.
“You are different.” They added, making Lance even more confused. Lance had met Pidge before, but not in such close quarters. 
“It is alright you know.” They said reassuringly. It seemed like Pidge was trying to comfort Lance or rather Katherine somehow. 
“It may be hard right now, but I am sure Keith will accept you. You just have to accept it yourself. “ 
A shiver ran though Lance as Pidge looked him up and down, inspecting every aspect of him from the slippers up to his hair, eyes calculating as they went. This person was no fool. 
“You are struggling. Like your skin is crawling, fighting to keep you in position as a lady. It is  alright.” Lance skin felt cold and clammy as Pidge explained the experience so not unlike his own, but again oh so very different. 
“You can talk to me about it. I understand.” They said reassuringly, taking a hopeful step forward.
“Pidge.“ Lance could see the hope alight in Pidge’s eyes, at the possibility of a kinship no other could understand but them. But this was not true. Pidge had sensed what others did not, but not for the same reason. Lance would not give them false hope of a friendship based on lies.
”Thank you for your honesty, but I do not think our situations are quite the same. That being said.” He could see the disappointment in Pidge at once, but Lance reached out nevertheless. “Thank you for reaching out to me. I am not ready to talk about it, or explain at this point but….” Pidge looked back up into Lance’s eyes.
“But maybe sometime in the future.” Lance tried. 
“Perhaps…..”
Pidge nodded, and smiled at Lance. They reached over and squeezed Lance’s hand and then turned off their heels and left whistling. 

“What has happened?”
Lance stilted a terrified shriek and turned towards the entrance where Keith was prancing.
With swirling skirts he got up with haste to join the man. “Nothing to worry about.”
“I have never seen them like this. Are you two getting along?”
“Just fine my Lord.” 
Keith raised a skeptical eyebrow, but Lance distracted him by lifting the man's hand gently kissing a soft spot on the back of his hand, and staring up at the lord between his eyelashes. Relishing the sight of a blush blooming over the Lord's cheeks. At first the height difference was a great annoyance for Lance, but in situations like this it was quite practical. Their bubble of peace was burst by the sound of people running down the corridor.

There was a commotion further down, in the front of the house, and servants and footmen were rushing to accommodate two carriages that arrived unannounced. Keith sent Lance a contemplating look before they moved to inspect the spectacle. 
“Were you expecting more guests today?” Lance asked as they walked down the stairs. Behind them Shay appeared from thin air. 
“Perhaps.” Keith grunted. He reached out to a passing footman and asked. “Please fetch my brother.”
The footman nodded and went to fetch the man. 
“This way.” Keith extended his arm, with a sentiment that there was no room for discussion and they trailed down and outside. Shay conquered a shawl for Lance, barely throwing on the material to ward off the cold before they were outside. Lance clung to Keith arms not to fall on his face. 

“Mother.” The Lord breathed out a loud resigned sigh.
“Keith.”
An imposing, but beautiful woman stood in travel clothes in front of the steps, having just exited her carriage assisted by Kolivan. Her hair was the same shade as Keith’s and the eyes the same dark hue, even if they could not be related by blood. The hair was pinned and styled expertly and was the highest fashion from the city. Lady Krolia Kogane, Keith step mother, Shiro’s birth mother and the late Lord Kogane second wife, but also former mistress, was a sight to behold.
A second carriage was being emptied for luggage, large crates and a whole pine tree. Lance briefly wondered just how much the lady had brought from their other estate.

“What are you doing here?” Keith asked, not able to hide the annoyance in his voice.
“Was I not invited?” Krolia asked in her impassive tone, revealing no emotions at all.
“Yes of course. But most people accept the invitation before arrival.” Keith sighed. 
“I wrote you multiple letters mentioning your visit, but you never confirmed.”
Krolia looked like she contemplated the information for a brief moment, before deeming it unworthy of her time.
“Really? Must have slipped my mind.” She looked out over the landscape ignoring the people on the stairs.
“Clearly.” Keith nodded, tension thick in the air. Krolia’s eyes fastened on a point behind the couple.
“Hello dear.”
Shiro appeared breathless behind them, clearing having run down the stairs from his room, where he had probably been dosing. 
“Mama…” He looked suddenly even paler.
“Are you gonna let me stand here in the cold?” Krolia chided in the same impassive tone. ”Am I not to be bid inside?” The two men started to move at the same time, clearly being pulled out of whatever stupor the lady’s arrivals had put them in. 
“Of course.” Shiro started walking down to offer her an arm, but she shooed him away. 
“Do not bother. I am not that old.“ She huffed, and lifted her skirts, so they did not catch dirt on the way as she ascended.
“Mother.” Shiro complained deteriorated, as he followed her. 
Krolia took the last step and turned to greet Keith only to holt as her intense gaze landed on Lance standing next to her son, where he was positively shivering in the cold.
“And who are you?” She asked without any preamble, looking down her elegant nose at Lance. Her sons were not impressed with her blunt untimely behaviour.
“Mama.”, “Krolia!”, both men flustered around her. Lance ignored them and took a confident step forward trying to channel all his twin's confidence and grace.
“I am Miss Katherine McClain.” Lance curtsied the best his mama had taught him, but Krolia was not impressed. 
“Ah, the fiance.” She commented, her expression unreadable.
“Yes.”
“Ah.”
The two of them stared each other down, while Shiro and Keith looked uncomfortable between them. Krolia held her stand, but Lance would not relent either. With a huff of cold air, Krolia turned to Keith. 

“I thought you did not want to get married.”
“Mama.”, “Krolia!!” They were both outraged by her bluntness, but Lance could not help to crack a smile. He found the older woman's manners quite refreshing after always being in company where no one ever spoke their true intention for so long. Lance knew Keith had not wanted to be married at first. Katherine had informed him as much of the Lord's reaction when he was made aware of the arrangement. It was only natural. Now Keith seemed to have changed his mind at least. Lance hoped? 

Krolia rolled her eyes at the fussing men, and once more peered at Lance, this time with more annoyance than indifference.
“Well I can not say it is a pleasure as I had no idea what you were here..”
“Likewise.” Lance smiled undisturbed by the other woman. Then Krolia’s expression changed.
“But I do look forward to getting to know you during your stay, so I can say I do.” There was a sincerity in the words that Lance appreciated.
“Thank you ma’am.” Lance bowed his head in respect. When he looked back up, there was something keen to mirth playing at Krolia’s mouth. Perhaps amusement. Then the moment was over and she went back to asking questions.  
“How long are you staying?”
“For solstice at least.”
“At least?” She turned on her son, eyebrows almost disappearing under her fashionable updo. “You are sending her home right after the solstice.” She scolded aghast.
“Krolia I …” Keith tried to explain, but his mother stamped over closer to him, sticking a finger in his face, before turning to Lance with a more polite and welcoming tone.
“No no, I have raised you better. You must stay until the new year.” 
Lance took a step back quite spooked.
“I do not want to overstay…” 
Krolia was not a woman one should disagree with. It was clear she was used to being heard, respected and as a result, obeyed.
“Nonsense. It will be good for the boys to have some life in this bachelor house.”
“Krolia.” Keith groaned.
“Walk with me.” She extended her arm for Lance to take as they turned to walk inside. Keith made a notion to go down to help with Krolia’s belongings, but was stopped.
“No need Keith. Kolivan will see to my things. He knows how I want things done.”
With a groan, Keith reluctantly took his place next to his brother, and they fell into step behind the ladies. Or more correctly a lady and Lance. Quickly Lance glanced behind them to give the men a look of comfort but both men looked like they had a world of trials ahead of them. 

Before Lance could act, Krolia demanded his attention as they walked inside. 
“How has your stay been so far?” She handed her coat, hat and gloves to three servants that seemed to have pooped up from nowhere. Shay stood demurely awaiting if Lance required her assistance. 
“I only just arrived a couple of hours before you, so I can not say.'' Lance was distracted by the throng of people suddenly milling about, and had barely time to register Krolia’s once again offered arm. They stalked up the stairs towards tea.
“Have you seen the house?” Krolia continued, eyes set fast on their destination.
“A little bit. I have visited previously.” All concentration was going towards his feet, not to fall at the rapid speed Krolia set to hold, making him sound breathless and befuddled.
“Have you seen the grounds?” 
Two footmen brushed past then with a chest filled with ornate solstice decorations.
“Some of it.” Lance’s eyes followed a cackle of maids running to prepare more rooms.
“When?” 
Axca stood behind conducting the affair like an orchestra, as servants, maids and footmen sprang to her flute.
“When the Lord had a hunting party back in late summer.” Why were there suddenly so many people? There had not been so many servants back when Lance visited in summer.
“Hunting party… Do you hunt?” Krolia asked.  
“No, it was a shooting competition.” Lance added as they passed more ornaments being brought into the house, by even more people.
“You shoot?”
“Better than Keith.” 
Krolia’s eyes winded ever so slightly, and Lance could have positively kicked himself. He had been so distracted by his surroundings that he had not been initially present in the conversation. 
They stopped in a hallway near the parlour. Shiro and Keith seemed to have been lost in between the servants and were nowhere to be found. Krolia took back her arm and stared Lance down.
“What else can you do?” Her eyes were so like Keith, despite them not being related by blood, and Lance could not help to shiver at the intensity.
“I can embroider…” Lance fidgeted. Krolia huffed in distaste.
“I meant something useful.”
Lance could feel himself getting hot with anger under the scrutiny. He knew what the correct response as a proper lady would be, but Lance’s pride had taken a hit, and he played into Krolia’s hands like he would do when her son irked him. He took a deep breath before firing back a response.
“I can play the piano. I can ride. I am well versed in a couple of languages. I can keep and balance books, recite the entire planetary system in Latin, back and forth and recite the entire series of ‘Love of the fall’ to you.“
The two of them stared at each other down for a moment, as the house bustled around them. 
“I like you. You are smart. We are going to get along with you and I.” 
Lance felt like he had passed some sought of test, judging by the approving tilt to Krolia’s eyebrow.
“Come along then.” She said briskly as they continued down the hall. 
“Yes ma'am.” Lance said, trying to hold back his giggles of relief and triumph.

They walked in peaceful silence for a couple of paces before Krolia spoke once more, and the blood in Lance’s veins turned ice cold. 
“You do though have to tell me your secret.” Krolias commented as they walked.
“My secret….?” There was a ringing tone in Lance’s ears and his heart sped up.
“Yes….” Krolia dralled, leaning in. Breathless Lance leaned closer to hear her whisper.
“How in the world did you convince my son to marry you?”
Lance choked on a relieved sigh, as Krolia's smiled and pulled him near in a motherly fashion.
“I..” He could feel the warmth in his cheeks, as Krolia prattled on in a hush tone
“He never showed an interest in matrimony before.” She confided to him, and pulled at Lance arms, looking down at the bracelet he wore.
“You must really have turned his head.“ She had the audacity to smirk, even wink at Lance, as Lance felt hot all over.
“I..”
“I saw the way he looked at you.” She said approvingly, making Lance want to turn in the other direction and find a mousehole to hide in. Preferable forever. 
“It is the same stupid look his father got. Well done. I approve.”
Lance ducked his head in shame, as Krolia riled his feathers up even more. She was nothing of what he had expected, and nothing like his own mama. His secret was safe for now, but he would have to keep on his toe to keep up with his relentless and surprisingly new mother in law.

Chapter Text

Lance let his head slip lower down into the water, and let the heat work his sore muscles, and aching joints. Shay let another bucket of water fall over his head. 

Last night had been a trial. 
By the evening a group of different parties had come calling on the Marmora estate, summoned by the rumour that Lady Krolia was in attendance. 
Instead of a more private affair, their evening had been turned into a dinner party for all the local bigwigs, all eager to show their respect to the previous Lady Kogane and snoop in on the new intended Lady Kogane.
Lance had not been able to go near Keith, never mind holding a conversation with him, as Krolia demanded his presence at her side. As the gentlemen, mayor, the local bank manager, high ranking soldiers and such had greeted and paid their respect to Krolia, they turned on the Lord and his brother barring them from the other part of the party. Their wives and ladies were left in the company of Krolia and Lance. Out of the two of them, Lance turned out to be the most polite and most decedent at conversation, keeping the tone light and comfortable with mentions of the weather, the upcoming holiday, and enquiries about the different ladies and their family. His mama’s tutelage finally proving valuable.
Under all the compliments, well wishes and chit chat, Lance came to wonder if Krolia was once again testing him. She could not be this deficient at hosting company, could she? She looked utterly content sipping her sweet tea, nibbling on a biscuit and leaving all the hard work to Lance. 
As a result Lance was exhausted by the time it was appropriate to retire, most of the guests already taken their leave, but some of the single gentlemen still remaining. And his own family had not even arrived yet. 

There was a knock at the door.
“Hello, I am coming in.” Ezor’s calm bubbly voice sounded before she pulled the door to the washroom open carrying lavender scented fresh towels and a warming smile.
Lance shrieked and flung his arms around his front to cover himself, trying to sink further down in the water to hide his extra appendix. Shay was the smarter of the two, and nonchalant held up a large towel to cover Lance in the tub, like he was preparing to rise from the tub. Ezor chuckled, ignoring the odd behaviour and walked further into the room to deposit her load.
“Aww, are you shy, miss?” She tittered.  “Do not worry, nothing I have not seen before.” She left the room laughing, and now properly the whole estate would know that Miss Katherine was ‘shy’. Lance let his head sink down into the water covering his mouth and nose, bubbling with shame, with his arms around his knees, bubbles rising to the surface as he grumbled.

Within the hour, he was dressed, primed and proper, standing next to Keith as the dutiful fiance, while they waited for Lance's family to arrive. Shiro and Krolia were already inside the dining room with a couple of other guests, most from the night before. Lance wondered if there was ever a brief moment of quiet within this house.
The carriage arrived outside and the family came through the doors, Mama at the front as usual half complaining and the other half complimenting the house. They had a brief encounter before mama spun into the dinner hall already mingling with the proper people. Veronica slumped after to keep her in tow. Then came Luis with his wife and a surprise. 
“Marco…!” Lance yelped, flinging his arms out to hug his older brother. His brother looked tall and handsome in his formal uniform, as he reached out to kiss Lance's cheeks.
“You look well sister dear.” He taunted. Lance glared at him as they greeted. 
“Careful.” He warned, his perfect smile still in place. Marco scoffed, patted Keith on the shoulder, and then went into the dinning hall, properly to hunt down the nearest pitcher of alcohol Lance feared. 
Lance sighed, but then felt a hand on his arm. Keith smiled encouragingly and gestured for them to enter as well. 
Lance took his offered arm and they entered. There were no words for the feeling Lance held at that moment. The light fluttered in his stomach and a dull pain beat in his chest. One look and Keith Kogane had once more reduced him to such. 

The dinner went fairly well. Their mama was overly indulgent towards Lady Krolia, and tried to commandeer the woman's attention as much as possible during the meal. The other time she spent flattering her way into the good graces of the esteemed gentlemen and as always flattered both Keith and Shiro to the point of ludacris. She indulged in the food and wine as much as the company, and it was perhaps nice to see the side of his mother like she once was, and where she thrived. Even if she did so at the expense of her children, as they tried their best to not let her be carried overboard with the affair. She and the present company did seem to enjoy themselves. 

There were a mass of people around whom Lance had only heard of, but some he recognized. Most seemed to be acquaintances of Shiro’s rather than Keith’s.
Allura’s father was here with his friend and business partner Coran. Allura’s mother died over ten years ago, and now Coran joined Alfor in events like these. It was an uncommon sight to see them without the other's company. Lance made a note to stay clear of them so they would not recognize him, even as his Mama wined and made a spectacle out of greeting them. Others of his fathers former associates and friends were present as well. They also seemed to be of the late Lord Kogane’s acquaintance, Lance had come to believe from conversation and the way his Mama made her rounds. 
Duke Zarkon and his lady were also in attendance. Zarkon and Lance's father was never the best of acquaintances, due to their wives despising each other. Lady Honerva was though a distant cousin of Sir Alfor, so the three of them were quite close. And with shared acquaintanceship it was unavoidable for the McClains not to be in company with the Duke and his Lady from time to time.
Surrounding the Duke and Alfor were their shared friends. Sir Blaytz, Mr. Gyrgan and Mistress Trigel. They all had done business with Alfor, Duke Zakorn and even Lance’s late father back in the day. It was a wonder they all had left the city to join the Marmora estate.
Sir Blaytz owned a dozen ships in the nearest harbour, and Mr. Gyrgan had been prominent in the military before he had become high bishop in their community. Mistress Trigel had also been part of the business, and from the money she earned, built the largest orphanage on this side of town to Dalterion. She was a fierce business woman, but a kind house mother. Lance had never personally met Mr. Gyrgan, or Mistress Trigel, but Sir Blaytz had been kind to him when he visited their father, back when Lance and Katherine had been children. 

Lance learned through Luis that Marco was to stay the winter, now Lance was out of the house. More like out of the budget Lance thought cruelly to himself. There had to be a special reason Marco was allowed home, instead of being off making money for the family.
“What of your twin?” Keith enquired as he joined their conversation politely. Lance could not help but smile as a comforting hand came to rest on his back. 
A boisterous cackle interrupted Luis from answering. The warmth from Lance’s back disappeared. 
Mama pushed her way into their circle, holding a wine glass as she giggled, laying a hand on Keith’s arm.
“He is terribly busy at school and said he could not possibly make it, before he would have to leave again. Such a shame.” Then she drowned her glass and moved over to the next party, leaving them behind. Lance wished that the floor would swallow him up to hide his shame. She had been over indulgent, and there was a blush to her cheeks and neck, only matched by Marco. The two of them had participated most in the wine out of the entire company but many others were not far behind, and there was a looseness in the air that only agreeable amounts of liquid courage could provide. The hosts, both brothers and mother, seemed terribly sober compared to their relaxed guests.

They evening moved on, and they went into the room where the card table had been set up. There was a piano forte at the edge of the room, and the guests who did not join the card play, sat around in the soft furniture all about the room indulging in more wine, refreshments and confections. 
Lance was commandeered to sit next to his mother with one look. He left Keith’s side to join them at the sofa near the fire. Veronica sent him a careful smile, as mama’s claws grabbed onto his leg as he sat down. Reluctantly he gave her his hand instead to hold on. Krolia sat across from them taking up a whole sofa by herself, looking immensely bored. People had scattered around them trying to be as close to the women as possible to listen in or to be so bold to join in their conversation. 
Shiro was near the card table surrounded by his friends and other gentlemen, looking quite the opposite of his sour mama. Keith wandered about playing the perfect host. Lance tried not to follow his handsome striking figure with his eyes, but the man was making it quite difficult. He could feel his mama’s nails dig into the soft skin of his wrist every time she saw him looking. Her hands seemingly had a soft tremble to them, but it could have been perhaps the drinks taking effect.

“Let us have some music.” Mr. Harris said, liquor hot on his breath. He turned to Lance. 
“Miss Katherine let us hear you play.” The rest of the nearby company nodded in agreement.  Lance stood to go to the piano forte, but Mrs. McClain interrupted him and pulled him down beside her once more. Lance has to bite his tongue not to wince at the strength.
“Nonsense” His mama chided. ”Let us save that for some other occasion. I am afraid my dear daughter is terribly tired. You look possibly exhorted dear. Lizzy dear!” She shouted across the room.  
Elizabeth, Lance's sister in law nodded and walked to the piano. They all cooed, and awed of her talents, and nails once more dug into Lance's wrist. 
Lance looked deep into the fire, letting the surroundings around him blend out as conversation and merriment went on around him. Normally Lance would enjoy parties like this. Dallying around, sipping wine, playing cards and talking to interesting people all in all having a joyous time. But not tonight. The lace around his throat felt constricting, and he could barely breathe. His mama’s grip on his hand felt bruising as it kept him in place, the tremble growing unmistakable. The air was staging and Lance felt quite faint, unable to carry a thought from the stumbling heat, loud chatter and tumultuous atmosphere. He felt alone sitting here surrounded by people calling him by his sister’s name, uncaring of his well being or thoughts. Every time he wanted to talk, his mama would take over the conversation before Lance could utter a peep. In the end he stopped trying, and let his mother smile and converse for the both of them. When he found a lull in conversation he deemed appropriate, Lance excused himself from the party and went upstairs to hide in his room, even as the party was at its most merriest. 
He summoned Shay to his chambers, feeling like an utter pick as he did so. She helped him out of the corset and into a night chemise, then left him to his own thoughts. 
He wandered a bit from his room and found a quiet alcove in the other end of the house, away from the party. Here he lit up a puff, from a pack he stole from Marco’s jacket pocket when he looked the other way. He leaned out an open window watching the smoke disappear up towards the stars. He looked down at his wrist where crescent shapes had dug into his skin under his bracelet. He grabbed his wrist, letting the cold from the bracelet steady him, and he tried not to cry. He took a long drag of the stick, before putting out the bud, letting the wind from the window cool his face. He could endure this. This pain was nothing. He would do his family right. He would do better. He closed the window and went back to his bed with newfound determination.

Unknown to Lance a figure had stood on the lawn below the window, watching his figure as he puffed out smoke into the air. Even watched as he nearly crumpled under his tears, and then closed the window. But Keith Kogane did not think him pathetic or miserable, but quite breathtaking. But also sad.

The next day when the guests had all gone home, and Shiro slept away his hangover, Keith called Matt Holt to his private office. 
“Matt.” Keith sat behind the large desk, organizing papers that had been brought to him.
“My Lord.” 
Keith sneered at him, but Matt just grinned back. They maybe be employer and employee but Matt had always found it absolutely hilarious that Keith would inherit a title.
“I need your particular skill set.” Keith brushed him off and handed over a piece of paper.
“Oh.” Matt took it and looked at its content.
“Yes.” Keith sat back in his chair. “I need you to go to town, locate Mr. Lance McClain and convince him to come home to spend the holidays with his family.”
Matt raised an eyebrow at the peculiar request as Keith carried on. The Lord was not known for meddling in others affairs.
“I will pay for his travel expenses of course-” He said when Matt interrupted. 
“That is very kind of you.” He muttered. Keith sighed and rubbed his temple annoyed. He had not indulged as much as his guests but the late hours had still worn in on him and he was in no mood to explain his actions. Especially to discuss them with Matt.
“It is for Katherine’s sake. She looked so devastated that her twins could not join us this winter.”
Keith reached for a lukewarm cup of tea. He still remembered the look at his fiance’s face when her mother told them about her brother being still at school. Then again when he caught the heartbreaking look at her in the window last night. Something had to be done.
“I will do my best.” Matt bowed respectfully, and left.
“Much appreciated.” Keith added just as Matt closed the door behind him. 
The chair creaked as he turned in his seat towards the window where the winter sun poured through the glass.

Chapter Text

Lance felt like he barely had time to breathe. When Keith had invited him to stay, he had thought his days would be filled with some relaxation, away from his mama’s gaze and his family obligations. But not a day seemed to come by where there was not someone to come calling on to the Kogane estate. He even heard Ezor prattle to Shay about the thrum of people coming along. Most times it was friends of Shiro’s that came to spend a couple of hours away from responsibility with card games, hunting or other frivolous activities. But from time to time some lady friends of Krolia would come calling. So either Keith would be stuck with his brother's company, busy with work obligations or Lance would be stuck with Lady Krolia’s. They rarely saw each other or got to spend time together as Lance had come to hope. They spend their meals together, but from time to time Keith was preoccupied by business, and Lance ate alone or with Krolia. 

Today a couple of Shiro’s old military buddies came calling, so Lance was blissfully not required to entertain at the current time. He hoped he would get a moment to himself to read perhaps. How could one stand to keep company all the time? Lance thought of himself to be a sociable person but this level even surpassed his normal limitations. He felt overwhelmed and tired most of the time, while Keith looked drained. Even Shiro looked paler and paler as the days went on. But then again Shiro had been sleeping longer and longer each day, with no improvement to his sad eyes and pale complexion. Lance wondered when a doctor would have to be called in. He hid it well when in company, but Lance had seen Shrio slump down into himself when the guests had left. 

There were three of them this time. They sat around Shiro, sipping liquor and sharing stories of war and conquests. Lance could hear them bolster from down the hall as he went to pass them. He could hear Keith from within, and it made Lance slow down his steps a bit, curiosity getting the better of him.
“No gentlemen, I simply can not.” Keith said in a polite tone.
“Of course you can. “
“One drink has never killed anyone.” 
“I have business to attend to.”
“On a Saturday. What a drag your brother is, Takashi.” More laughter.
Lance peaked to see what had occurred inside. Keith looked up just as Lance peered around the corner. A relieved light flashed in his eyes, and he set a course directly towards Lance.
“If you will excuse me.” Keith proclaimed loudly and hastened to the door. “Miss McClain you will be delighted to hear that the arrangements are ready for our outing as per agreement for this afternoon.”
The rest of the party turned with surprise towards Lance, who took a step forward not to be seen lurking in the doorway like a snooping tom. He sent the men his most dashing lady smile with a demure nod. 
Keith’s hair seemed befuddled, like he had run a hand through it multiple times, and he kept clenching and unclenching his hands. 
“Of course.” Lance played along, his voice taking on a delighted trill. “I thought perhaps you had forgotten our plans.”
“Oh…” One of Shiro’s companions giggled as he sipped his glass of brandy. “That kind of business.” He winked at Keith and laughed tactlessly. The other men were more aware of their surroundings and hurried to stand when they saw Lance, muttering a quick. “Miss McClain.”
One of them wacked the cheeky one over the head, to remind him that there was a ‘lady’ present. 
“Shall we.” Keith extended his arm, and Lance grabbed it.
“We certainly shall.”
As they walked away, they could hear more rambunctious laughter exploding in the room they just vacated. 
“Ignore them please..” Keith bit out through his teeth.
“Is it wise to leave them together like that?” Lance asked concerned. Shiro had looked like he was enjoying the company, but looks could be deceiving. He knew the sometimes vicious tone the mood could take when young men and alcohol was left to their own devices. 
“Do not worry, one more drink and Shiro will show them the door. He needs to rest.”
There was a command in his voice. If Shiro did not comply, Keith would make sure they would.
“I have noticed.” Lance said solemnly, focusing on his slippers as they walked.
Keith sighed. 
“I am sorry to pull you into this. Did you have plans?” He tried to sound cheery, but Lance knew he was concerned on the behalf of his brother.
“Only to find a quiet place to read.“ Lance lifted up the copy of the book he was carrying. “It has shown it is quite difficult in this house to find some quiet..” He gave Keith’s arm a comforting squeeze, and looked up at the man through his lashes. It seemed to put the Lord in a better mood. 
“Yes..” Keith agreed. “I promise it will be better. Now most have gotten their curiosity stifled, the company should moderate now.“ It made Lance wonder just how often Keith had been suffering the attention of such nosy neighbours and acquaintances.
“That is a relief.” Lance let his hand linger a bit at the arm as they slowed. They had reached the study which Lance favoured for a quiet spot for himself. They stood in silence next to each other for a moment, before Lance heaved a sigh and removed himself from Keith.

“I will let you get back to your book then.” Keith nodded but made no move to leave. He kept his place and stared Lance down. 
“If you must.”
Keith still did not move, eyes darting from side to side. Lance decided he would have to be the decision maker, and turned to leave to spare them both the embarrassment of uncomfortable silence.
He had barely taken a couple of steps before Keith called him back.
Sucking in a heavy breath properly in elation, Lance turned towards the man with an air of indigency and calm. 
“Yes.” 
Keith took a couple of paces to once again be close to Lance.
“Perhaps. You would like to spend some time together.”
Heat warmed Lance’s face, and butterflies took wings in his belly as anticipation rose in his throat. 
“I would be delighted. “
“Would you like to go riding with me?” Keith proposed a charming tilt to his handsome grin. Lance felt all resistance waver as he looked at the man. 
“Sounds quite pleasant.”

It was most pleasant. And thrilling and most refreshing. Lance hurried up to change into some riding clothes and something to help towards the cold. Then Keith and himself, had raced across the grounds, laughing, taunting and absolutely free. Lance had not felt lighter in days. 
The sun and fresh chill air did him good and filled his lungs and self with high spirits. Every time Lance had thought he had had the lead, Keith had appeared out of nowhere and turned the tides once more, keeping Lance on his toes. 
Then they returned after the ride, still smirking and taunting each other who won the last race, tea and biscuits were waiting for them, Krolia already sipping on her first cup. Lance was especially delighted to see a plate of freshly baked ginger cookies waiting for him. They joined her and continued their bickering. Lance could not help himself. The Lord was so easy to vex and Lance took great pleasure at seeing the man show more than his polite indifferent mask, knowing that Lance and only Lance had had the ability to crack open the man. Lance also noticed how Keith would smile at him every time he thought Lance was unaware of his gaze. It sent content shivers down Lance’s back. Keith had called Lance ‘my dear’ on several occasions, and even if Lance knew it was meant as mockery the word still filled Lance with a sense of pride and excitement running through his veins. A stray touch, and crude word all meant annoy and vex, made Lance want to keep the Lord even closer. If only to annoy him in return and see those swirls of deep purple focus on Lance and only Lance.
It all felt normal and right between them, even as they sent each other glares over the teacups. It was quite nice not to be so formal as they had been required to these past days. The whole afternoon was most uplifting in spirits. Lance felt like he could float away at any moment as Keith sent him a hooded look over the brim of his cup. The room suddenly seemed feverishly warm, and Lance wished he had a fan to hide behind. 

As Keith had promised, the guests had taken their leave during their outing, and Krolia informed them that Shiro had retired to have some rest. She sent a secret look to Keith that nodded in confirmation. Lance was in too good a mood to demand to be let in on their secrets. During tea Keith had found some letters he needed to answer, and Lance busied himself with a book as Krolia did not offer any conversation topics. 
He had gone riding, he had spent time with Keith, and now he got to indulge in Hunk’s most divine cooking. This afternoon was the most perfect he had had in a long time.

“Oh my. These are delicious.”
Lance looked up to see Keith grab another cookie from Lance’s plate.
“I agree.” Krolia, echoed from her seat. “When did the cook make these? I thought you did not care for sweets.” 
“Cook did not. Hunk did.” Lance said undisturbed as he bit off a piece of his own, a plan already forming in his head.
Both sets of eyes turned on him and looked at him. Lance trilled and took another bite enjoying the attention, prolonging the suspense a bit for effect.
“He has always had a talent for the culinary arts. He practically grew up in my family's kitchen. I asked him to make me a batch while I was here.“ Lance dabbed his mouth pertly.

“If you ask me, and I know you have not,” Lance could practically hear the Lord rolling his eyes at him, but there was a fondness to it. “,then you have made a mistake.” Lance concluded with a flourish. 
The Lord put his cup down, with possibly a little too much force than necessary, but Lance knew he had his attention now. One thing Lance had taken notice of during their battle of wits, was Keith despised being told he was wrong. Even if it was very obvious, he would refute the claim to his dying breath.
“How so?” His voice was calm, but Lance could hear the edge, the challenge. Lance lived for moments like these.
“You should switch the couple.” Lance said undisturbed. 
“Let Mrs. Shay work with the horses, and let Hunk help in the kitchen.” He took a long sip and added dramatically, like it has just been an afterthought, “After I leave of course. I will of course still require Mrs. Shay as my ladies maid.”
There was silence a bit as Keith mulled the suggestion over. Only the sound of Lance refilling his company's tea cups filled the air. Krolia sat quietly, not moving at all. 
“You are certain of this?” Keith said, folding his hands and staring intensely at Lance over the intertwined fingers. 
“You do not believe me?” Lance gasped with theatrical proportions.
“It seems unconventional.“ Keith said skeptically. This time it was Lance’s turn to roll his eyes. He knew Hunk the best, and he hoped Keith could be more modern in his thought process.
“Give it a try. You might be surprised. I will make the change anyway after we get married.“
Keith raised a changeling eyebrow at him, but Lance kept calm and glared back with the same intensity. Krolia watched them with interest as she sipped his tea. 
“One day.” Keith said with one finger lifted.
“That is all I ask.” Lance straightened up, content with the result of the conversation. 
“Alright.” Keith agreed.
Lanced leaned back over his book, and Keith returned to his letters to his business partners. Out of the corner of his eyes, Lance noticed the slightest of tugs on Krolia’s lip. 

The next day at lunch, Keith ambushed Lance in the parlour and leaned in to kiss his cheek. Lance was possibly stupefied as Keith took his hands and stared deep into his eyes.
“You are brilliant.”
It took a moment to get his bearing, and manage to assess the meaning of Keith's comment. He counted himself very brilliant and much clever, but it was seldom an opinion shared and expressed by others. Lance chuckled at Keith.
“Did Hunk prepare your lunch?”
“He did.”
“And you approve.” Lance could not help to raise a teasing eyebrow as Keith’s face remained serious, but grateful.
“Most definitely.”
“How marvelous.” Lance concluded and retrieved his hands. 
When Keith did not make any motion to leave, he patted the spot next to him. Keith flicked his tail coat away and took his place. Lance envied his freedom of movements as he himself struggled with finding a comfortable sitting position in his corset and costume. Keith remained silent, engrossed in his own thoughts. Lance sighed and tried to return to his book. 
“He is most diverse.“ Keith said after Lance had barely read two sentences.
“He is.” Lance added turning to the next page, thinking the conversation still was about his childhood friend. 
“He is also getting along with Pidge I think. He is quite smart, besides his other qualities.”
Lance faltered at that. Hunk was smart, brilliant in fact maybe even more than Lance. But Lance’s mind was focused on the stars, Hunks were grounded solving problems down here. Pidge’s mind was a mystery. Dangerous, unpredictable and innovative. If they combined their brain with Hunks problem solving, Lance could not predict the consequences. Lance rarely saw more to Pidge since his arrival, because they preferred being far away from Keith’s guests and focus their times on their next contraption. 
“Do you think that is wise?” Lance smiled tenderly through gritted teeth, but Keith was unaffected, still lost to his own thoughts. 
“I think it is an improvement. Pidge will have a partner that actually understands all their nonsense, and perhaps it will reduce the chaos of the Holts blowing up their workshop with a buffer between them.” 
Lance blinked confounded at Keith, who still held himself casual and relaxed.
“Blown up?”
Keith nodded at nothing, lost in the memory. 
“We are still missing part of the grove, at Kogane house where the last workshop erupted.”
“Oh my..” Lance croaked, suddenly fearing for Hunk’s well being. 
“Indeed.” Keith agreed and rose from his seat. Keith extended a hand and Lance held up his hand for Keith to leave a departing kiss on his skin. Lance smiled up at him. 
“Well. As long as he is content, then I am satisfied.”
“Good to know my dear. I shall remember this for any eventual miscuries which we should have in the future.” Keith smirked and took his leave.
Lance threw a pillow at his head.

Chapter Text

Shrio did not rise the day after his friends had left.
Nor the second day. 
Or the third. 

Keith seemed to have banned company, and bared himself away in his office or near his brother's bedside. Krolia was even more quiet than normal and it worried Lance to wits end. 
Every time Lance tried to ask after Shiro the subject was quickly changed. He felt like an outsider protruding in the home as he wandered the halls all alone. The staff had been largely busy decorating for the upcoming holiday, and tinsel, pine and ornate bows decorated every surface. Large glass ornaments glittering like stars, ordained every chandelier or candelabra and small fairy figurines hid behind books stacks, on shelves and behind portraits. 

The family seemed to be in agreement not to mention Shiro and went silent the moment Lance entered the room. Lance had noted the brother's swindling health, but he did dare to assume it was as serious as this. No doctor has been in attendance, and it made Lance wonder that maybe the family was keeping Shiro’s illness a secret. Like someone very close to his heart, he knew. If Shiro had the same illness as Katherine then maybe Lance knew some things that could help him. 

“Excuse me.” Lance managed to corner Keith as he left his office. 
“Ah.. Hello….Katherine.” He looked tired, like he was not sleeping well. Lance felt the pity swell in his chest. 
“If I may…” He guarded his words carefully, twisting his own finger in nervousness. "I have, my sister, I. “ Lance coughed and set his eyes on Keith.
“I know you are keeping it a secret and It is not my place to pry…”
“It is not.” Keith interrupted sternly but Lance continued only raising his tone a bit to talk over the angry hint in Keith’s voice. 
“But… I am familiar with such illnesses that could keep a person in bed for longer periods of time, and my sister, the doctor, has made tonics to help keep the illness and its symptoms at bay. “
The look in Keith eyes changed from steel to something else entirely,
“I could write to her directly and ask for some. I am sure it would be helpful to Shiro, and could help him recover, or at least help him relax enough so his body can focus on recovery.”
With still no reaction, Lance continued.
“I assure you, they are completely safe and I just want to be of assistance. Hopefully with the tonics Shiro may be able to attend the Solstice festivities, maybe not the dinner, best to keep him away from company but..”
A soft hand took his. Lance closed his babbling mouth and looked up into Keith eyes that were shining with something Lance did not recognize. 

“It is not his body that requires healing. It is his mind.” 
The hand came to rest on Lance cheek, and Keith's thumb stroked the skin, making Lance’s breath get stuck in his throat. He withdrew the hand and Lance could breathe again.
“We are getting closer to the anniversary of his accident.”
Lance's eyes widened in fear. There was so much he did not know, and so much where he still had no place to interfere in this family. He had heard about the accident but it was not considered proper to pry. But from the gossip that had run through the families, the accident that cost Shiro his arm had been horrific and unspeakable. Still Keith looked at Lance with soft eyes as he explained and Lance felt like he had behaved like a petulant child.
“It haunts him, gives him hallucinations and night terrors. At times he is not even recognizable or see reason. Sometimes he does not recognise us.”
The thought was incomprehensible to Lance. To not recognize the ones you hold dear. Keith signed and rubbed his temple looking extraordinarily tired. And sad. 
“Doctors say there is nothing to be done. So we just wait for him to return to us. “ 
Lance bit his lip.
“Have you talked to him about it? About his experiences?”
“He does not wish to speak of it.'' Keith reassured Lance, lifting his hand in dismissal. Still Lance pressed his luck further.
“Are you sure?”
“I do not wish to discuss this topic further.” Keith growled all understanding gone from his eyes. He turned on his heel and left Lance alone in the hallway. 

Lance knew it was not his place, but he could feel the cloud that lay on top of the estate as the days moved on and Shiro did not leave the seclusion of his chambers. 
Keith grew more and more agitated, day by day, and Lance's normal harmless taunts turned the man into an angry snapping brute, and made Lance flinch at his action. Keith never excused his behaviour, only left the moment he was aware about his behaviour towards Lance leaving Lance often alone and lonely. 

Lance tried to talk to Hunk, but he was kept pretty occupied by his newfound friendship with Pidge. Lance found it better not to linger on it. The rest of the staff was not as talkative about the subject of the oldest Kogane brother so Lance ruled them out. 
An afternoon where Keith had barricaded himself in his office, and Krolia had gone to call on a friend, Lance saw his window of opportunity. 
He sneaked down into kitchen and built a plate of bread, with butter and a slice of cheese and some of Hunks ginger cookies, and snuck into Shiro’s chamber. 

There was no light and all the curtains were drawn. There was a small room before entering the bedchamber and for the first time Lance felt a shiver of doubt. 
He sat down the plate of food by the door to the room, and sat down next to it. The door to the room was slightly ajar but it was impossible to see its interior. 
So Lance just talked to the door. It was easier. 
He talked about how Keith missed his brother. How Krolia seemed to have turned in on herself, and how the staff woed and worried. He talked about all the fancy solstice decorations Shiro only would get to enjoy if he left his solitude. He talked about how the place was too quiet with no callers and Shiro’s friends not allowed to visit. He talked about the light snowfall yesterday. He talked about Hunk and Pidge milling about and keeping secrets. 
He talked about his missed family, and how he would do the best to fit into his new family. He asked Shiro’s door questions about Keith. How had Keith been as a child? Was he really so bad at cards or was he letting ‘Katherine’ win on purpose. What had Shiro’s and Keith's favourite games been as a child? His and his twin’s had been adventures. He did not mention that the other twin in this case was Katherine. 
Lance felt it problematic asking such things from Keith, as he easily would take his own point of view rather than Katherine who he was portraying. Somehow it was easier to talk to Shiro’s door. 
“It must have been hard growing up as you guys did.” Lance mumbled to himself. “My papa was strict but he loved us. It must have been hard being first bastard then adopted into the family. I can never imagine your trials and struggles, but looking at Keith…. It looks like it has made you both stronger. I beg your pardon. Do not mind my ramblings. “
He chucked to no one. 
“I am sorry for intruding. I just feel lost. I do not know how I can help you. I can not begin to fathom what you have lost and how it has affected you, but…” 
The room remained unchanged around him.
“If you one day feel the desire to converse, I would be honoured to listen. It may not seem like the case, but I am an excellent listener. And now I can just picture Keith rolling his eyes at my statement. Can you not?” 
The fond image made Lance smile even as he sat alone in his dress.
“What I meant to say is. You have people who care for you, and we will wait for the end of time to see you again. You are in our thoughts. And we miss you.“
Lance sat a moment longer feeling silly sitting alone on the floor next to a cold plate of food. 
“Right then.“ Lance sighed and got up, dusting off his dress, correcting his ribbon in his hair and the lace at his throat. Then he left showing no signs of what had transpired. 

Keith was still acting like a resilient child towards Lance, but Lance had managed to get him and Krolia to sit with him that evening. Krolia busied herself with some letters and Keith had brought with him multiple papers containing numbers to occupy his time. So Lance sat back a bit forlorn looking at his company in silence. His stupor was interrupted by the door to the room opening and Shiro walking in. Keith stood up like he had been struck by lightning. 
“Shiro!!” But Shiro ignored him and wandered over to them. He still looked terribly ill, his hair pale, bags under his eyes and a light scuff at his chin. But he was wearing trousers, a shirt and a robe, which, by the servants' gossip, was more than he had worn from a long time. 
Krolia sat frozen as a marble statue as Shiro slugged past her and did not acknowledge her existence. Lance blinked up at the large man as he stopped in front of him. Shiro held forth his hand, and Lance handed over his own hand, his bracelet dangling a bit with the movement. 
Shiro planted an air light kiss on it and sent him a tired but warm slime. Lance felt his cheeks heat up, as Keith went rigid behind them. Then the smile disappeared and Shiro started wandering out the door again. Keith blew all caution to the wind and ran after his brother calling his name, making his papers fly up around the room in a storm. 

Krolia coughed and rose as well. 
“I…” She said dreamy. “I think I will retire for the night.” She gave Lance one more nod then left Lance alone. 
With a sigh. Lance put away his tea, and decided he might as well be useful since he was not getting a social evening. 

He went around the room to gather all the Lord's papers. On closer inspection their content was of a nature that was familiar to Lance. Reports, and registers, list of incoming and outgoing deposits. Lance wondered why they were on paper sheets and not a book, where one paper could easily get lost, ruining the whole calculation. 
He called for a servant to bring him a fresh book, and set up at Keith's abandoned table to transfer the information from the sheet’s to the books. He worked himself far into the night, the candles burning low, but Ezor, the dear, kept him well stocked with fresh tea, warm milk after midnight and well provisioned with biscuits and buns with cheese. Lance told her to stop fretting and go to bed after three hours of such behaviour and after a spirited discussion Ezor agreed after refilling all the candles, then leaving Lance alone to his work. 
When he was done, he scribbled a note to Kolivan to have everything returned to Keith's office in the morning. Then he retired to bed as well. After struggling a bit with his corset, he fell asleep in his frog.

Chapter Text

The next morning the whole house felt quietly different. Lance groaned most becoming into his pillow as Shay opened up his curtains and wished him a good morning. He glared at her, still tired after his doings of the night. 
Still with some effort they managed to make Lance look at least presentable. Breakfast was served later than normally, perhaps to accommodate Lance sleeping in. 
To his surprise a red faced Keith sat nipping at his toast next to a smiling Shiro. Lance felt relief washing over him and he hurried to join the two. Shiro looked better. More colour in his cheeks, and fully dressed, but still very tired. Lance had a premonition that he would perhaps retire to his accommodations after dining with them. 
“Good morning.” Shiro greeted. Lance echoed his greeting and took a seat that Ulaz held out for him. 
Keith remained silent, suddenly very fascinated with his plate. 
“How did you sleep?” Shiro asked instead. 
“Fairly well. Thank you for asking.” Lance smiled politely, hands folded in his lap so he did not wring them. “Are you well this morning as well?”
“I am better, yes, thank you.” There was a glazed look over Shiro’s eyes, and Lance wondered how much effort it took for Shiro to be present in the moment. Shiro smiled and then turned to Keith. He coughed loudly, making Keith tense. Not getting the required result Shiro coughed again making Keith look up at Lance. 
“I am aware that my behaviour these past couple of days have been most unbecoming, and I am sorry for having caused you such grief.” 
Lance felt his eyebrows disappear into his short not quite bangs in utter surprise.
“I vow to make it better in the future.” Keith held onto his teacup most firmly, Lance feared it may crack.
“I would like if the lady had some time today to perhaps walk a tour of the grounds or take a tour of the house.” Lance gathered himself and felt the anticipation rise with the prospect of being in the Lord's company once more.
“I would find that most delightful.” He said, voice small barely making it past his lips.
The awkwardness between the two made the air almost unbreathable, but Shiro seemed to have no problem buttering up another bun and eating it as his company blushed and hid behind teacups. 

Now that Shiro was better, Keith returned to a person Lance could recognize. He knew the cause of Keith's demeanour. Lance would have been a nuisance himself if it was his own family in peril, without Lance being able to take action. So Keith seemed to go out of his way to get into Lance's good graces. He was cautious and gentlemanly, focusing on listening to Lance and favouring Lance's opinions. It was most unnerving and rather annoying. In the end it was too much and Lance put his foot down. 
“This has to stop.”
“I beg your pardon.” 
“I am not affronted with you and I am not made of glass. Do not treat me as such.” Lance twirled around, eyeing Keith with a scowl, he learned by observing his mama.
“I …. Ahh…” The poor man was taken by surprise.
“I would much rather like we go back to how things were before.” The man still blinked unknowing and Lance took pity and reached out to touch the Lord’s arm.
“I understand the struggle with your brother, but he is to become my brother too.” Understanding downed on Keith, and Lance smiled at him.
“I am here for you my Lord.” Lance reached over and the Lord let his fingers brush his own hand. “I once told you that I would only be treated as an equal or nothing at all. Well I am still present and so are you. Let us make the best of it. Unless I have scared you off.”
“You could never.“ The fondness in Keith’s voice made Lance's heart swell.
“You have seen nothing yet.” He jested.
With that, it was like the spell was broken. Keith was much more pleasant company to be in and returned to telling Lance off and rolling his eyes to the heavens, when he thought his fiance’s behaviour too pretentious. Lance felt his heart burst with happiness each time. 

They stopped on the tour to admire some old painting done by a master long gone and buried. Keith started walking once more, but something else caught Lance's attention. A pair of rapiers was mounted to the wall. Keith returned to Lance's side, when he became aware of his fiance no longer following his steps. 

“Are these authentic?” Lance asked an idea blooming in his head. 
“Yes, they are an heirloom.” Keith folded his hands behind his back with an aura of endless patience. 
“But you have never wielded them?”
“No, they are for decoration.”
“It is quite alright my Lord. I am sure you have other talents.” Lance smiled and walked away leaving a stunned Lord behind.  
“That is not what I…” Keith tried to reassure the situation in his favour, but Lance brushed him off with a giggle. 
“Do not worry my Lord. Your secret is safe with me.”
Lance hummend as Keith stepped in front of him with a challenge in his eyes, only contained by decorum. Lance could feel an old itch starting to move, as he held the other man's stare unforgiving with his own confident smirk. 
With a huff Keith darted out of the room, only to pause and gesture for Lance to follow. Lance lifted his skirts with practiced ease and followed. They walked at a brisk pace into a private gymnasium, where lines of rapiers and other forms of weapons to use in a duel. On the way Lance could feel the household eyes following them as they moved. Kolivan fell into step without a word and Lance could feel some of the other footmen irking to also join, only to watch.  

As they entered Keith pulled off his elaborate jacket and handed it to Kolivan, who folded the pristine material with care. Lance followed them into the room with careful steps, hands neatly folded in front of him, not trying to look too interested in all the articles of weapons hanging on racks and on the wall. Even if his fingers longed to reach out and touch every piece, weigh its balance and take it for a couple of swings. It was like a lost part of him had returned to him. The desire to fight and best his opponent using his skills and strength, filled his veins. 
“I assume you are familiar with these.”
Before Lance could finish his admiration of the room, a rapier went flying in the air, and Lance caught it in the air without trouble. He swung it expertly, feeling its weight settle in his hand. It was perfectly balanced. Lanced looked across to a leering Keith, who had thrown it at him.
“I maybe know a thing or two.” Lance bragged, taking up first position, the old sense of competitiveness boiling up. He did grew up in a household with two older brothers, and was used to being underestimated. With a humorous grunt Keith took up his own position as well, and they met in a crash of metal against metal.
They danced around each other with each thrust and parry. Lance had to lift his skirt with one hand not to get tangled but still managed to fend Keith off. The familiar weight of a weapon in his hand gave him confidence and a sense of self. As they moved he enjoyed the dance of familiar movements drilled into him years ago. Much easier to remember than the dances his mama now drilled into his head, as muscle memory took hold of his body.
He was enjoying himself. And from the smirk on his opponent's face, Keith was too. They met again, and again, only for Lance to falter for a moment almost losing his balance. A  clear opening for Keith to strike, but Keith reached out and grabbed Lance’s hand before he fell and pulled him closer to himself. Annoyed Lance pushed him away, but Keith just smiled pleasantly at him with his allure of smugness, to further enlarge Lance’s annoyance. They held each other's eyes,  Keith eyebrow taunting in challenge as to ask “Is that all you got?” 
Lance snorted very unladylike and took up start positions again. Keith put one arm on his back, wiggling his eyebrows in torment again. Lance scoffed and attacked. 

Lance was no stranger to swords and fencing. Even if his preference and specialty lay with guns or rifles, he was no amateur with a sword. But neither was Keith. Lance was used to opponents larger than himself, growing up fighting his much stronger and larger brothers, and had developed his own style to keep up with his opponent. But Keith met each of his moves, anticipated every attack and parried every trust with ease and to Lance’s horror was actually holding himself back. In the end Lance was no match for him, but Keith held back to continue the game, making their fight more equal and keeping their dance air light. Lance could not fault him as it had been sometime since he himself had enjoyed himself like this. 

Lance roared out triumphantly and dramatically as their blades met. They met each other head on with more brute strength than finesse in the end, as their eyes met each other over crossed blades. It was thrilling, even as Lance met dark eyes and felt himself shiver. 

The next morning. There was a large package and a flower left in his room as he awoke. Left was a note. Lance twirled the single pristine white flower between his fingers as he read the note with Shay beaming next to him.

“For our future dances.
Yours KK.”

Warmth bloomed in his cheeks, as Shay fussed over him. Barely containing his elation and excitement, Lance gestured to Shay who opened the package to reveal a brand new rapier with blue stones engraved in the handle. The hilt swirled beautifully and delicately around the handle as one would wield the weapon, but it had a certain strength to it. Lance beamed looking forward to the next tiff with Lord Kogane.

Chapter Text

With the return of Shiro’s health came another slew of callers. A much lesser bunch than before, but still required Keith and Shiro to be entertaining for most of the time. That once more left Lance to his own devices, but not quite. Him and the head butler Kolivan had formed a sort of arrangement.  
After Lance had instructed Kolivan to return the set of books he had transcribed from the wayward papers of Keith’s, similar papers arrived in Lance’s hand. So Lance spent his time trying to organise what must end up being the entirety of the Lord’s office and study. Lance was sure he saw much more than the Lord's affairs than he was meant to. Lance had gone through two bindings just resolving funds and income regarding the Holt sibling. It was much a case of coincidence of whatever their inventions were successful with great profit or a stunt that took out a carriage with a blast. In the end the maths was profitable so Lance could understand Keith's continuous effort to sponsor them. Pidge, Lance still saw from time to time. Most times they were accompanied by Hunk, whom Lance had seeked out, but the other Holt sibling seemed to have vanished. Pidge was still very civil towards Lance, even with their smug expression, like they were both sharing a secret.
But when Lance brought up their brother, they clamped up. So Lance decided to let go of  the matter. Especially after seeing the latest order of materials requested by Pigde. Lance would very much like to avoid being speared by said ordered crossbow.

But Lance was efficient and professional about the books, even if Lance really did believe Keith should take on a secretary to help tend to his affairs. The Lord seemed to have his foot in many different baskets and would impossible to oversee them all with the same vigilance Lance supposed.
In the end Lance and Kolivan had established a new organising system in the Lord’s office, where everything was marked with date, subject, and aspect of Keith's many businesses. 
They were just putting the last books in place when Keith appeared in the door.
He was of course aware of Lance meddling or he would not have let the interference run its length. He took a tour around the room, nodding appreciative. 

Then he pulled another book from behind his back, and handed it over to Lance with a pleading look.
“Would you be so kind to look this one over as well.” His ears were slightly pink at the tip. So Lance reached out and accepted. Keith pulled out his own chair for Lance, and he sat behind the office desk and got to work. Keith leaned over his shoulder explaining some of the details when required. Lance ran through the numbers, proposed remedies and corrected a small error from time to time.  

“You are truly remarkable at this.” Keith remarked after the end of an hour. Lance rolled his blue eyes and pulled his hair ribbon behind an ear. 
“There is no need to flatter. I know I am truly terrible.” Lance sighed. “My mama tells me so.”
Keith wrinkled his regal nose. Lance gave him a small resigned smile, and poked said nose to make the man stop. Keith still looked in question down at him even with a straight nose, and Lance looked the other way. Lance felt the chill of air at his ear as Keith leaned in closer to point down in the book Lance had written in.
“But see, you caught this error earlier. This could have cost me hundreds down the line had you not discovered it. You are brilliant.”
Lance blinked up at him, his mouth slipping slightly open. His cheeks still felt terribly hot after the Lord's breath had stopped tickling him. Lance gently shook his head, patting Keith's hand.
“No, I am always making mistakes in our own books at home. Mama will not let me help anymore.” 
The pricking of profound eyes made Lance turn away. “She seems to always find fault in my work.” A warm hand landed on each of Lance’s shoulders. The Lord went to the ground to Lance’s left to be at eye level with him. 
“I am sure that is not true. I have not seen you making a single oversight so far.”
“Ahhh..” Keith tried to smile reassuringly, but this only had the effect of making Lance more uncomfortable. He quickly folded his hands in his lap, one hand clamped over the wrist bearing the bracelet.
“I always made miscalculations at home. It is an outstanding miracle that I have made none so far. “
“How so?” Keith inquired, rising to his feet once more, crossing his arms across his chest.
“Well...” Lance tried not to focus on the way the fabric tightened flattering over the Lord’s broad chest. “Money seems to disappear in our household. I always find us lacking just the barest bit.” Lance ran his hand over the pages of the book before him.
“Mama always quickly finds the errors and rights them, but still.”
Keith hummed thoroughly. 
“Big house, lots of children, some money is bound to slip through the cracks I suppose.” 
Lance rolled his eyes and huffed.
“But not in this house.” He patted the book. “You own so many housings, businesses. properties and other stock holdings and still every penny is accounted for. Even with the corrections I made, you run a tight ship.“
Lance's hand went to his throat, picking at the lace. 
“I can help to wonder… Why do I make so many errors, when here my work seams accurate.”

Keith’s hand grabbed his and gently moved it away from his throat. Enticed Lance followed his own hands with his eyes, as the Lord lifted it to his lips and kissed it. All thought and worry disbarred once more from Lance’s mind.
“I am thus deeply grateful for any help you give me.”
Lance pushed the man gently away and commented with a hint of a smirk.
“You really should hire a secretary.” 
To his surprise Keith barked a tight laughter.
“Well if our marriage does not work out too well, maybe I can hire you. You seem to have all the required qualifications.”
Lance lifted an eyebrow. “Your standards are very low my Lord.“
“Not at all my dear.” 
He leaned in to plant a kiss at Lance cheek only to be interrupted at Kolivan clearing his throat. Keith looked back up at him with something keen to murder in his eyes.
“Your guests for the evening are arriving.”
“At lass.” Keith sighed and left after bidding Lance goodbye. Lance waved him off, finishing off his work, marking where he stopped and dashed to his own champers to freshen up before dinner with the guests. The day before it had be Alfor and Coran, who provided a much relaxed and humorous evening. His own brother Luis and his wife also made an appearance. But today most of the guests were from Keith’s hunting parties and Lance seemed not to have made the most charming impressions on some of the gentlemen.

“I have to say it's not quite proper for a lady to shoot.” Iverson continued his triade, just having finished off his fifth glass of brandy for the evening. The rest of their company was only on their second. Lance had nipped on a glass of wine and Krolia had not touched anything beside the sweet punch. She seemed to have made it her evening agenda to burn holes into Iverson’s skull with her eyesight alone.
Lance bowed his head in discomfort, but the word slipped out anyway. 
“My brother taught me.” 
With a an distasteful burp Iverson smacked his lips decently. “Ah yes, that big oaf of yours.”
Lance gripped his dress not to make a scene, but his hands shook with the effort. Iverson and the rest of their company did not seem to have taken notice of Lance stiffness. 
“He was a terrible soldier but a decent shot. He really was the sharpshooter out of the two of you.” There were murmurs of both agreements and disagreement around him.

“Hopefully your older brother will have learned some, so he do not get himself get killed out there in a trench right? “ Iverson laughed boisterously, but Lance felt his blood run cold with the thought of Marco. Shiro grew quiet beside Lance. 
“That twin brother of yours though, there was always something with him. Always running that loud mouth of his. One should wonder if he had born a girl and not the other way haha.” 
The shame and embarrassment burned through Lance, as he fought to bite his spiteful tongue, begging it to keep quiet like his mama had instructed. 
“I could just see him running around in dresses making a fool of himself. Well more than he normally does.”
Lance’s ears were ringing awfully and it was dreadfully hard to focus on any other things than the flickering light from a candelabra. 
“It should not surprise me if he enjoyed such perversities. I even heard rumours that he kissed another man at that school of his. Disgraceful. What will happen to our next generation if schools like that, do not teach men to behave like proper men and let them run loose to do such ostentatious behaviour.“ There was a tightness in Lance’s gut that seemed to continue to grow with alarming hate.. 
“But when then, he was prosperous to get in anyway, from what I hear, he had to get a scholarship for them to let him in. Could not even pay them to get in. Pure charity case, good for diversity. HA! What a daft.”
“I think you have had quite enough to drink Iversson.”
Lance blinked past his would be tears to see Keith standing, demanding Iverson to hand over his newly refilled and already half drunken glass. Iverson looked unfaced and took another contemplating sip. 
“Slow down son, just telling the truth. Do not look down on the elder.” 
But Keith was not to be trifled with and kept an insistent and firm hand. Lance suddenly became aware of the stillness and silence of the room. Ulaz had stopped playing his violin and Thace had followed by example, halting his own cello. The guests around them also had quitted in favour of starting the two men down.
“Quite enough.” Keith insisted firmly and edge of danger. Briefly Iverson’s eyes darted around the room, but no one came to his aid. It was not worth making a scene in the Lord’s own house. 
“Barh… lowwits all of you. I will take my leave. Was a boring party anyway.” Iverson rose and left swaying. Keith nodded politely to Kolivan to make sure he made it out. Then he gestured to Ulaz and Thace and the pleasant music resumed. Shiro quickly engaged a couple of other guests in conversation of lighter topics, and Krolia started dealing cards. Quickly the tone was merry and bright once more, with only Lance still feeling a sort of coldness around his heart. 
Keith returned to his seat near Lance, trying to discreetly hold his attention, but Lance could not bear to look him in the eyes. It had been too close. Far to close.

Chapter Text

“Well met. How was your travels? You look bleak.” Keith greeted Matt as he was shown into the office.
It was much tighter than when Matt had left, having been under the caring hand of Katherine. Keith even managed to keep order and continue the organisation system she and Kolivan had enforced. He still requested her assistance from time to time, despite her insistence on a proper secretary. He smiled at the warm memory of her delightful pout. But the warmth disappeared, when he took in the look of Matt, still in his travelling cape, covered in dust from the road. Matt looked devastated solemn.
“I went to the school.” He answered in his own words of greeting, always preferring to get to the case rather than drag out to endless unnecessarities.
“Yes.” Keith continued to scribble on the letter he was writing.
“He is not there.” 
Keith raised an eyebrow and put away his pen to give Matt his undivided attention . 
”In fact, I was informed he had not been there for months. He went home to help take care of his family when his father died. That was last spring, sir.”
The addition of Sir was an echo of the severity of the situation. Titles were only a matter of appearance between them. Matt was excellent at his job, and despised failure. That he had now disappointed his good friend, gave him all sorts of grief. 
“No one at the school has seen or heard from him since.” Matt said, twirling the rim of his hat between his fingers, fidgeting with the fabric.
“Then why would Mrs. McClain….” Keith wondered, thinking about his mother in law.
“Maybe she is lying sir.” Matt bit. 
“I …” Keith hesitated, but nodded with new determination. “Thank you Matt. I will take it from here.”

The door to the sitting room seemed intimidatingly larger now Keith was standing in front of it. He sucked in a calming breath and steeled himself. 
“Katherine.” He knocked on the door.
“Yes.” Came her soft voice came from inside. 
“I must speak with you about an important matter.“ The door opened up and Mrs. Shay showed him inside to a waiting Katherine. She looked pristine in a new lavender gown, long silk gloves, and jewels in her short hair, ready to go down to dine. She smiled radiantly at him and his heart made a small jump.
“Of course. Will you like to sit?” She gestured to the seat across from her. Keith did not sit, already determined with his fate.
“It is about your brother.” He forced out instead, folding his hands behind his back, trying to stand straighter.
“Oh god.. What has happened. Is Luis alright?” She shivered, a hand going to her mouth in dismay.
“It is not Luis.” Keith said very carefully, trying to maintain a level of calm. She shook her head confused.
“But Marco has not returned to his garrison yet, He can not have caused trouble yet. He could not …I would have been informed.. oh god.. What if..” She rose and started to wring her hands in distress. Keith hated to see her like this, and went to her, wrapping his own hand around hers, so she stopped the upsetting motion.
“It is not in fact Mr. Marco..” Her eyes grew round and large with even more confusion, her mouth opening up, her earrings dangling with the motion.
“It is about Mr. Lance McClain.”
Katherine paled. She lost all colour in her face, her eyes seemed to turn grey and her mouth snapped shut.
“He is at school.” She said very slowly and deliberately, retrieving her hands and taking a step back. Keith mourned the loss already, but was determined to bring forth the information to her.
“He is in fact not.” She grew even paler, taking another step back, grapping after the seat behind her. Mrs. Shay came to her aid and guided her down to sit. She sat down next to her patron, holding her hand rubbing soothing gestures, but Katherine seemed unresponsive to the small show of comfort. Keith sighed but assumed his previous standing, hand setteling once more behind his back. 
“I sent Matt to bring him home for the holiday, but he was informed that your brother has not been to school for several months.” 
Keith waited for some sort of action of response but Katherine’s eyes were black, dull pearls of grey.
“Did you know of this?” Keith tried more softly.
Katherine stood up, startling her company and stalked out of the room, passing a confused Matt on the way out. Shay joined her with haste, as she continued her prowl up to her room, skirts swinging dramatically in her wake.
Matt and Shay shared a look, then all of them sat after her. Keith walked with a brisk haste following the procession. When they arrived at Katherine's room, she was going through her trunk, looking for paper. Silks, gloves and shawls went flying with more force than necessary.
“What are you doing?” Keith asked.
She was mumbling under her breath about stupidity, emotions and youth, looking more wild and astray than Keith had ever seen her, despite her pristine ensemble. The lady got up, and pushed past the other to reach the writing desk with the paper in hand. 
She started writing feverishly.
“Katherine.” Keith tried, but was cut off by the sharpness in her voice.
“I am writing to my idiot brother to come home at once, and dump whatever poor piece of meat he is chasing after this time.“
Keith blinked flustered by the brute language “Ah… Beg your pardon.”
Katherine groaned in frustration, discarded her first paper, and started over, ink splattering over the page. 
“My brother…. He is always …. He falls in love. And then he chases them until they kick him down. He is properly following some damsel he thinks he needs to save, that imbecile…”
Keith tried to make a sense of her rapid words.
“But you do not know where he is.” His words of reason were dashed as Katherine wrote on.
“I have my ways. “ She sent one cold look over her papers at Keith, before gesturing to Shay. 
“Leave me be…”
Keith tried to protest, but Matt shook his head, trying to get him to stay quiet. Shay showed them out and closed the door behind them, having them barely making it over the threshold.

With a speed Keith had not known was possible, Mr. Luis, and Miss Veronica arrived in the evening and sat with Katherine behind closed doors.  Mr. Luis left quickly, probably sent off to hunt down their wayward brother, but Veronica stayed the night with her sister, probably for comfort. Keith did not dare send her on her way home giving the hour. The next day they sisters sat most the day in deep discussion, before Veronica headed out again. Keith tried to grab Katherine's attention but she whisked away to the room, the moment they were gone, nullifying his attempts.

“He has been found.”
Katherine informed the dinner table two days later. 
“Ahh. “ Keith rose to move the chair for her to sit, but she refused. 
“I will retire early. I feel quite faint. Have a good evening.” 
With another twirl of skirts she was gone. 
“Do you require some…”, but Katherine was already gone. Keith signed into his soup. Shiro finally put down his spoon that had frozen half way up towards his face when the lady entered. Krolia, ever the rational being, frowned upon them and reminded them of their manners. Both men mumbled a subtle “Yes, mama”, bowing their heads at her reprimand.
She dapped her own mouth with a napkin looking like royalty. 
“Honestly. This affair has been quite stressful for her. “ She scolded, making them bow their heads lower. They did not speak further during that meal.

“I wish to speak to you.” Keith insisted the next day, when he saw Katherine flee, when she spotted him.
“I do not wish to speak to you.” She said and continued her brisk pace. Keith reached out and stopped her by the wrist, trying to be gentle.
“Please.“ He insisted. Katherine pulled her hand back with an insulted grunt. 
“You wish to speak. Let us speak.” She crossed her arms and sneered at him.
“Explain how you went behind my back to seek out my brother without my knowledge.”
Keith blinked, fronted by the assault.
“I wished for it to be a surprise”
“Well, I am quite surprised.” She huffed.
“I did not wish to cause you harm.“ Keith said. “It was meant to be a surprise to have him home for Solstice. I thought it would give you comfort to have your twin home.”
She turned around on her heels.
“You should not meddle in matters that does not include you”
“Now hold on for a moment.” Keith sat after her.
“I think very much I am to be included, if it involves my family.”
“Family!!” She screamed, only to turn and point an accusing finger at him. “It is not your family… not yet.”
“Is that how you think about it?” Keith felt his own anger boil with the statement. 
“It is not your reputation that is on the line, but mine.” She insisted. “You can retreat from this arrangement at any moment given, and where does that leave me.“ She threw her arms up in the air. “Unmarried, undesired and rejected, with no one wanting to have the Lord’s discarded scraps.“ She closed her eyes, looking close to tears.
“All because of the actions of my family...my brother.”
This time his temper really got away from him.
“Do you really think so little of me that I should blame you for the actions of your twin?!”
“I know what it looks like. I know the talks. “ She seethed.
“Stop listening to them. They do not speak for me… And if you would have listened to me I would have told you that, I would offer some of my men to help locate your brother to make sure he was safe.“
She faltered, looking petrified, regretful even perhaps. She bit her lip between her teeth, looking away from Keith. He sighed, finally getting his temper and breathing under control.
“He means the world to you, does he not.” She made a barely noticeable nod.
“Like Shiro does for me.” He took a step towards her, and then another when she did not flee. ”So I am aware of what it means to put family first, like you do.“
She continued to keep her head down, slightly shaking. 
“We can not control their actions or choices. If you brother elopes to get married, I would not think ill of you. That you be his choice.”
He laid a hand on each of her shoulders. 
“So please… tell me… why…”
She suddenly reached out, grabbing the lapels of his jacket, looking up at him with tear filled eyes, startling him.. 
“You should still have told me… To have the information sprung on me in such fashion … i ….could hardly bear it…” She rested her forehead against his chest, hiding her face in utter embarrassment and undeniably shame.
“I also wish that you would have spoken to me…. Afterwards…” He said, running his hands comforting up and down her arms. “I would have understood your distress.”
She shook her head. “I did not wish for you to see me in such a state.. “
That notion could not help bring a bark from Keith's lips, making her look back up at him again. He smiled gently at her, running the backside of his hand over her tear stained cheek. Her cheeks were puffed up, her eyes were red from the tears, and she still bit onto her trembling lip, her whole body shivering with misery. He offered her a handkerchief so she could dry her eyes. She accepted it gracefully and dabbed at her face.

“If we are to be married, the trust has to go both ways. Yes, it was maybe not the most clever of solutions not to confide in you beforehand, but you should also be able to confide in me afterwards… quid pro quo.”
She made a small scoff, but nodded. Straightening up like him as the previous eruptions of emotion had not just passed.
“I suppose my own actions left much to be desired as well.”
“There is no harm done. Your brother is safe, and everyone is well.” She still looked rather guarded, like back when they first had been introduced, so Keith hastily added, 
“I hope you forgive me for being forward, but it was in an interest to please you rather than to upset.”
She held his eyes for a chilling moment, where she pierced through his soul.
“Please do not try it again.”
Keith laughed. He reached out and she let him take her hand. He held it up between them and kissed it softly. “It will unfortunately be one of my many future mistakes.”
“Oh?”
“To try to win your favour and your happiness.” 
Her stern face crumpled under his words, as pink tinted the tip of her ears. She bit her lip, trying to remain indifferent but the lip was trembling and her eyes darted around the room in embarrassment. Keith could feel the shiver in her hands. Much different to how she had trembled previously. He let her hand fall between them and took a step forward. Her mouth opened in quiet surprise, but she did not retreat. He raised a tentative hand to her cheek. 

“Do you also… smell something smoking..” She asked out of nowhere, nose wrinkling at the smell. Perplexed, Keith looked around trying to locate the smell, but before he could pinpoint the vague smell, a loud blast thundered through the hallway as a door further down to one of the smaller rooms was blown off its hinges. The smell of smoke, rot, and chemicals filled the air and black smoke bellowed out the door and two figures tumbled out coughing their lungs out.
Katherine covered her nose with the hem of her dress in disgust. Then she startled forward
”Hunk!!!” She strode forward and helped the large man off the floor, who was still coughing. Keith strode after, more aware of what had happened.
He went to stand before the two guilty parties, hand on his hip with a less of an understanding frown. Katherine helped up Pidge next, removing their spectacles trying to wipe them off in her clean dress. Pidge shook their head, dreadfully dizzy and thanked her when the spectacles were returned. Both they and Hunk still huffed puffs of smoke as Katherine tried to dust them off with her hands and even wiped down Pidges face with Keith’s handkerchief. She picked a spar right out of Keith's pockets, when he was trying to be assertive and stern. 
She continued her venture even as Keith started his scolding about experimenting indoors, even if the workshop were freezing outside. Pidge was blessedly distracted by Katherine's attention, they were only listening to Keith with half an ear, by sternly commenting that “the workshop had been too cold. “
“Then wait until spring!!” Keith hissed. Both Hunk and Pidge gasped in horror at the notion, both voicing their protest.
“You can not put a halt to progress my Lord!”
“It is for science Keith!! I will not let you or the cold stop me!!”
In the chaos, Keith almost missed it, but when first he was aware, it drowned out the rest of the sound. Katherine wanderlust laughter rang out as a bell as Pidge ranted about proper working conditions and furthering the future of science. Keith toned them out, to focus on the radiant smile on Katherine’s face. 

Chapter Text

Lance's nerves were close to fraying. The incident with Matt Holt had been too close for comfort, and Lance had panicked and blustered out with the first cumbersome half lie he could invent. 
In the process he revealed a shameful depiction of himself to Keith, fully demolishing any hope of friendship between them after the masquerade was over. Or so he thought. There may be hope for such friendship, with the forgiving mind of Keith Kogane. Still his family had been shaken, and Lance was carefully instructed to send observations back home so the family could react and prepare in time should such an incident occur again. Lance had been instructed to wait two days then inform his hosts that “Lance” had been retrieved, but to elude about the circumstances. It had made Lance flee Keith's companionship. Both out of fear of being discovered, but also over his own wounded pride and stubbornness. But in the end there was no avoiding the man, and Lance was once more lured in by the man’s words and troublesome charming looks.

Solstice was coming closer and with it was a grand ball the Kogane’s would host for their family and friends. Normally such an event was held in the McClain house for the local tits, but now with the Kogane’s outranking the McClain’s the honour fell to them instead.
Lance was grateful because that meant his family would not have to tighten their purse strings to accommodate such a large event at home, and gladly left it to the Kogan’s. His mama was less subtle about having such an opportunity to outshine her neighbours taken from her hands.
Shiro seemed to love the idea of a ball and spent a large amount of time sampling different holiday dishes, picking out ornaments and hiring musicians, light and colour returning to his face as he worked. Keith had gained the miraculous ability to disappear when any sign of planning emerged, claiming him very occupied with his business affairs. But as Lance had looked over most of the Lord’s registers once more, the excuse was rather flippant.
So in the end Lance had to help, as Shiro and Lady Krolia had no idea how to host the event in the country, very differently as for how it should be held in the city. There were different traditions to adhere to, and easier to step on toes. 
Lance almost fainted with he saw the seating chart, and when no one was looking, he switched a couple of names around to avoid a murder scene at the dinner table. 

Because his intervention was found out, Krolia roped him in to help. Lance spent the next days helping sort out guest lists, invites and special needs for each guest to avoid bruised egos, and too much drama before dessert, but enough to keep the party interesting. Krolia nodded approvingly at each step and once more Lance felt like he was being judged and passed, the invisible test Krolia had put him under. Being a hostess was quite exhausting.
The evening before the event Krolia and Lance sat alone in a parlour, Shiro already having retired to his chambers for the night, after their hours of finalising the last details.
With a giggle Krolia produced a decanter of brandy and poured them both glasses.
Lance only protested out of appearances, as his eyes followed the liquid hungerly, but Krolia shushed him, and then one glass turned to two, then three and then half the canter was gone. They sat across from each other beside the fireplace, with the last of the preparation spread out on a low table between them.
Lance slumped in his seat, giggling uncontrollably at everything Krolia said. She herself had laid down on the sofa, kicked her shoes off, nursing her glass as she told tales from when Shiro and Keith were young buys, the alcohol having loosened the lady’s lips. The stories made Lance hold his stomach from pure laughter. From the recollections it seemed Keith had in fact always been stubborn, and Lance wondered if they could have been friends as boys. His head was air light and he felt pleasantly fuzzy around the edges. This was more than he had ever been permitted to indulge after he first put on a dress.
Lance finished the last of his glass with encouragement from Krolia in one go, gasping dramatically afterwards with Krolia cheering confidently.
Lance resorted to giggling once more, drunk on the alcohol, warm air and good stories.
They ended up watching the fire as the candles burned down around them. 

Lance hummed a silly tune to himself as Krolia suddenly spoke. 
“I beg your pardon..?” Lance straightened to look at the woman. She seemed solemn suddenly, as the light played in her brilliant eyes.
“Love is truly blessed.” Krolia sighed. “I !! Have been truly blessed.”
Lance hummed not knowing how to respond. The liquid had made him more lucid than intended.
“Loving husband, loving children, great house.” She sighed, twirling her glass.   
“I loved the man but he should never have married me. The sod went along and did it anyway. Margret was barely cold in the grave.“
Lance shivered the tiniest bit, knowing the rumours about Keith’s mother. Krolia turned her eyes on Lance with newfound sharpness, making Lance almost tumble off the seat in surprise. 

“Be wary of Kogane men. They love you to their heart's content, but they can not be held back. You will run beside them or you stay out of their way, so as not to get trampled.”
Lance nodded, while his brain tried to make sense of her mystifying words.
“My oldest is losing himself a little bit everyday, and I can do nothing to help him.“ Krolia’s eyes grew distant once more. “All while my youngest fights to surpass a reputation and responsibility he never wanted.“ She shook her head, and Lance bowed his, in the sudden serious silence. 
“Ma’am.” Kolivan appeared from thin air with a tray of tea and biscuit, almost giving Lance a heart attack. That man was like a ghost roaming the halls of this house. Lance quivered to shake off the goose bumps.  
“Kolivan.” Krolia greeted dreamely, a different tone overtaking her completely. Her limbs grew long and elegant once more, but still relaxed and she reached out and caressed the man’s cheek. Lance sat silently watching the licentious interaction, trying not to gape unattractively. 
Kolivan grabbed the lady’s hand and kissed it softly as it stroked his face. The two started alluring at each other, while Lance tried to make himself invisible in the cushions. In the end Krolia sighed and retrieved her hand, and sent the man away with a flick of her wrist. Kolivan took her outstretched hand and kissed it once more, as he slowly retreated leaving his hand outstretched towards Krolia as he left, their eyes saying more than a thousand words. Lance bit his lips not to blabber. 

He kept his tongue until Kolivan had closed the door behind him and there was no sound of footsteps in the hall. Then he turned to Krolia, leaning over the table, eyes wide. 
“Oh my.. Mrs. Krolia…!” Lance grasped scandalised with the biggest smile on his lips. Krolia lazily turned her attention towards him. 
“What dear?” She asked smugly, teasing with a bit of a shoulder.
“You were flirting.” Lance's breath heaved, sitting at the edge of his seat. Krolia tsked.
“So… keeps life exciting. I was widowed young, you know. I could marry again.”
Still trying to contain his excitement Lance looked to the door and back.  
“But he is …” He stage-whispered, making Krolia laugh.
“I was lower than him when I got married. I have seen the ton fuss over more. I think they would approve that I married someone different. Shaking up their feathers, keeping up for my sons’ spot-free reputation. Keeping the rumour mill alive.” She took a sip of her tea.  
Lance leaned in, conspiratory. “Like Mr. Branko at the winter ball?”
Krolia halted, lowering her tea cup, to look suspiciously at Lance.
“How do you know that story? You were barely out yet?” Lance cursed his blabbering mouth and the good alcohol and spat out the first explanation that sprang to mind.
“My twin told me. He was in town with our older brother Marco. Witnessed the whole spectacle.” 
He had. Marco had dragged Lance with him to one of the officer’s balls, and Lance had front row seats to watch Mr. Branko, propose to three separate ladies, knock over a waiter, being drenched in wine, then bend down and rip his pants when he tried to stand up. What an eventful evening. Krolia held the mask for only a moment before she burst into laughter so reminous of her step son it made Lance flush deep scarlet.  

Lance woke the next morning and regretted everything about the previous night’s endeavour. His head hurt, the room was spinning. That of course was of no consequence to Shay as she burst into the room, drew open his curtains and forced him to prepare for the day. Lance sat very straight at the breakfast table looking deeply into his bowl with porridge trying not to gag.
“Well.” Shiro commented with an unflattering smirk, while Keith looked concerned down the table towards an ill looking Lance and a grave looking Krolia. “This is certainly a lively meal.”
Krolia hushed him loudly, lifting a hand to her temple looking like she would have him arrested, if he tried to say anything else. Shiro tried to speak again, but each time was met with a hush from Krolia. In the end he grinned into his own plate as Krolia drowned a tall glass of green clumpy concoction. 

Lance excused himself to dunk his head in cold water, helping with awareness and then got ready to face the upcoming ball. 
His family arrived earlier than the other guests. Lance’s mama insisted it was because of the excitement, but Lance knew it was so Mrs. McClain could inspect the ball room and decorations beforehand to make sure they lived up to her standards. On the way she pulled Lance aside and instructed him to change, as his current gown drew too much attention to himself. He did not want to cause a scene. His dress for today was chosen to match with Krolia’s gown but also Keith’s jacket. His mama just hurried him along and forced him into a more subtle beige dress, that would make him mistakable for the wall paper, instead of the violet gown that would make him stand out next to his fiance. Katherine’s fiance. Not his.
His earrings, and flowers were also discarded for something less shimmering. Two small pearl studs, barely visible in his ears. Another shawl to cover him up with white elbow length silk gloves. When his mama was content with covering most of his skin up, she went for his bracelet, where Lance flinched, quoting that the Lord expected the token at this point. The answer satisfied his mama, and then rushed them downstairs as the guest arrived.

Lance felt his inside clamp up, when Keith looked at him with a disappointed frown over the dress change. He schooled his features quickly, and gestured for Lance to join him so they could greet their guest together. Lance had barely taken one step towards him, before his mama was upon him once more. This time the scowl stayed on Keith's face as he watched Lance’s mama drag Lance to stand next to his sibling in line sorted by their age, like they had been at home, ready to greet the guest as they moved further into the house. Lance knew exactly what his mama was doing, clearly stating her claim, by removing Lance from the Kogane’s greeting guests at the door, but placing her own family as the next obvious entry to be greeted. Lance stood by the end of the line next to his sister as the youngest, trying to blend into the wall paper, as people walked past him into the dining hall.
Lance bore no mind the affronting backhanded comments as his mama applauded the decorations in the house to everyone she greeted, but made sure to suggest her own decorations at home were much bigger, more splendid and far superior. Such a shame the guests would not see them this year.  
When the entrance hall thinned out, Lance was left behind and the McClains entered the dining hall themselves. Lance contemplated forgoing the dinner entirely and staying in his room to be ignored, before a hand settled at the small of his back. Keith smiled down at him from his annoying height, but Lance sighed and took his arm as they walked into the dining room.

While they waited to be seated, Lance had to listen to another onslaught from his mama about his choices about the tableware, but it was made more bearable that Keith’s hand never left his back.

All in all, the evening went as planned. As a result of Lance's careful planning, the dinner conversation was pleasant and joyous as the party took part in the five traditional courses of holiday food, before the large two layered pudding was lit and flambeed to cheers among the guests. They had a pleasant turnout from all the local heavyweights, but also from Krolia’s slew of friends from the city. Mr. Gyran, Mistress Trigel, and Sir Blaytz were all present, but Mr. Alfor was spending the evening at Lord Zarkon’s own party that was held in the city. Mr. Iverson was unfortunately also present, but Lance had instructed Kolivan to make sure his glass is only refilled half as much as the rest of their guests. A less intoxicated Iverson and slightly more intoxicated Mr. Blaytz still took part in a spirited discussion over the table, making up the majority of entertainment over dinner.
Later songs are sung, games were played, before they are all released to participate in card games and large amounts of refreshments including wine and spirits. A smaller hall had been set up for dancing, but every time Lance dared to go near it, his mama appeared and dragged him far away from sight, hidden behind one of his siblings.

Ever attentive, Keith appeared to have noticed Lance’s struggles and Keith drew ever so nearer to Lance at each remark from his mama, until Lance felt a hand on the small of his back, sending shivers through his body, drawing out his mama’s endless stream of words once more. Lance looked out of the corner of his eye to Keith who smiled comfortingly at him, feeling his heart soar. Then Keith refused to leave Lance's side, and it forced Lance’s mama to give up and let Lance accompany Keith, so the Lord could do his rounds among his guests. They left Lance’s mama to insult the paintings as they went to greet the guests. 

At midnight they all gathered around Krolia as she lit the solstice candle and they sang the winter song. Keith held Lance's hand during and Lance had to remember that next year it would be his sister that lit the candle, and not him. No matter how much he wanted it, and how good Keith’s hand felt in his own.
Lance had been nursing a glass of wine most of the evening and was pleasantly lightheaded enough to handle his mama’s retorts against his posture and poor manners. 
There was also the immense feeling of guilt that his family was here, while Katherine was back at the house, all alone. A fact his mama continued to remind him off as the evening progressed, when no one was near. He was not supposed to be here. He should be grateful that he was, especially after he was almost found out by the Lord. Katherine was supposed to be present and receive the guests, share soft smiles with the lord and bathe in the light of the evening. Lance was the stand in. 

Keith was slow to recover him that time, and found Lance in a state of blackness, not even registering that his mama had left him to leave for their estate. He looked concerned, but Lance would not let him comment and went out to bid goodbye to his family.
Some of the guests had already left, and the entry hall was milling with others also preparing to leave, waiting for their carriages to be brought forth. 
Lance stood dutifully next to his family, hand folded in front of him, standing tall as per instruction. In a moment of almost dream state that Lance barely believed himself, his mama reached out and patted his cheek. There was a glossed over look in her eyes, that Lance deemed undeterrable. 
“Katherine.” There was a softness over the words as his mama spoke it. A way Lance never had been addressed by her in his adult life. He had just dared to hope, when the eyes turned cold again, and his mama nodded and went off. Lance looked after his family as they made ready to depart. Pulling on gloves, and coats, to drive back to the estate.
Lance turned in surprise to his sister Veronica, who lay a soft hand on his arm. She leaned in and kissed his cheek.
“Happy Solstice baby brother.” She whispered, and pushed a small package into Lance’s hand. Then she smiled and joined the rest of the family. Lance waved after her, the tiredness finally settling into his bones. 

He felt a weight settle next to him, as Keith joined him. Lance weighed the small box in his hands, trying to guess its contents. Presents were for children the next morning, as a sort of apology that their parents and other adults had been off merring off without them all night.
Katherine and Lance had enjoyed this tradition even after they had come out and joined the evening festivities. They were still the youngest and therefore the babies in the family. It was only after Luis got married that his mama stopped buying presents insisting it was time for her children to grow up. That did not stop Luis, Marco and Veronica gifting the twins sweets, or small nick nacks every year, even though they were adults. 

He looked up as his family said their goodbyes to their hosts. Lance waved softly at them, Veronica and Luis lingering, while the rest of the family entered the carriage. Their mama was already in the carriage declaring loudly that she preferred to be home some time ago.

They returned inside but before they joined the remaining guest, Lance in a fit of courage pulled Keith off to the side into an empty hallway.
“You do not have to defend me.” Lance babbled out before the bravery left him. He was not a soft spring flower that needed protection. He could most definitely take care of himself.
Keith did not agree with that statement, as he puffed up his ridiculously large chest.  
“You may be used to such behaviour from your upbringing, but I will not tolerate such insults in my house.” Lance was confused. Keith sighed and added with a tone that suggested there was no room for subsequent discussion. 
“I will not tolerate such comments about my future wife.“

Lance prayed that the low light in the hall and from the windows hid the heat that rushed all the way up to the tips of his ears, and down to his toes. 

Chapter Text

At last, the last guests were coerced to leave for the night. Even Shiro had given up being a gracious host and disappeared up to his own bed, leaving Keith to see out the last, heavily inebriated guests. 
The fatigue and sleepiness was threating to overcome Lance himself, but he leaned heavily on Keith arm as they saw the last one off, a brilliant frozen smile held firmly in place.

They both sighed heavily, when the doors closed behind the last guest. Even the poor footmen looked ready to topple over had it not for their fine professionalism. Lance patted what was left of the small flower and the ribbons in his hair, the weight suddenly feeling burdensome. Beside him Keith pulled slightly at his collar and ruffled his own hair, making him look possibly more rugged and handsome. Lance felt spent and clammy, and the other man still managed to look put together and aristocratic. But at this hour Lance was too fatigued to care.
“I thought they would never leave.” Lance confessed, still holding on to Keith’s arm to remain standing. 
“Well my brother has always been a social creature.” Keith commented. 
“But not you.” Lance smiled up at him. A true smile this time.
“Not me.” His companion agreed. 
He gestured and they went up the stairs, still entwined between each other.

“I think the lady owes me a dance.” Keith added after a moment. Lance could barely believe his ears.
“You hate dancing.” Was Lance’s only reply, too tried to guard his words accordingly. 
“Hate is such a strong world.” Keith fizzled.
“Loath, despise, dread.”
“Maybe I never had the right partner.”
They stopped so Lance could appreciate the look the Lord sent him down his perfect nose. Lance shivered. It was far too late in the night for Lance to handle such smolder and not be affected just the tiniest bit.
“What do you envision flattery will grant you?“ Lance tittered. “I have already agreed to marry you.“ He waved his ring around for emphasis. “Flattery will get you nowhere.”
The Lord chucked, sounding tired but delighted.
“Are you always so...” 
“Wonderful, adorable, captivating.”
“Difficult.” Keith scowled at him, but there was a care to it that settled the familiar warmth in Lance's gut.
“Only for you my Lord.” He fluttered his eyelashes, making Keith groan in despair and Lance giggled. It though seemed to please the Lord, and make Lance’s inside tingle despite the effects of the wine having worn off. Keith reached out and Lance let himself be swept away and further into the dimmed parlour. Ezor and another couple of servants were still cleaning up after the party. Half drunken glasses of wine were spread over the room. Crumbs dusted tables and chairs, and the card table was a mess of napkins, tokens, cards and wine stains. The candles burned low in their holders, reflecting the low light in the mirrors and dark windows. Keith drew him close as they neared a space cleared near the piano forte, and took hold of Lance's waist. Air seemed to leave Lance’s body.
“There is no music.” He breathed barely audible.
“Do there need to be?” 
Lance sighed disgruntled, but took up start positions and let Keith hold his hand as they turned and swayed around the room. He spun around to look at his partner, and looked softly up at him through his eyelashes. 
Keith changed the positions and they stepped closer to each other, discarding their formal position for something much more…. Intimate. Lance's breath hitched in his throat as he felt Keith's eyes look him up and down. 
There was a bustling behind them as the servants fled to room to give them privacy, only to most certainly watch from a crack in the door, mumbling gossip among themselves. 
Lance chuckled. 

Suddenly there was a sound and then the mellow tones of a violin started. Lance looked around and saw Ulaz near the edge of the room, playing on his violin winking at them. 
Lance looked to Keith who wore his own grin. He gestured and they took positions once more to dance to the music playing. A little faster and much more spirited than the tempo they held before, but still with the feeling of being intimate. There was more bustling around then and Kolivan entered holding a candelabra with fresh lit candles. He took position near Ulaz and gestured. A flock of servants entered as well with their own candles and they formed a circle around the dancing couple. 
Lance looked around star struck, only for his eyes to find Keith’s one more. And so they danced around in the circle surrounded by the light. As they moved, the light seemed to take on a life of their own, and Lance felt like he was in a fairytale as they moved lazily around in the light. The world was bright and glittering, overwhelming or dare Lance say magical. 
Keirh turned him into his arms and Lance stayed there resting his head on shoulder, swaying gently from side to side. 
Some of the lights moved and died out. Kolivan directing the servants out again leaving Lance and Keith to be alone once more. Keith led the two of them over to a couch that had been cleared up from the aftermath of the party and they sat down, still listening to the soft tone of Ulaz’ violin. 
Lance could not help it. He reached out and Keith grasped his hand and held it as they sat in the almost darkness listening to music. 
Even the fire seems on the brink of dying out to leave them in the magical dark. 
“You have a…” Keith remarked carefully. 
“Hmm.?” Lance turned tired to focus on Keith. 
He gestured to something, but Lance could not understand the meaning. The man beside  him sighed and reached out. He lifted the end of the ribbon wrapped around Lance's head. The small bow near Lance’s temple had deflated a bit and one end was bigger than the other. The long silk kissing Lance’s cheek without him noticing. The rest of the flowers were gone. Keith moved closer, and Lance held his breath as the man lifted the end of the ribbon and kissed it. 
He felt the heat in his cheeks, as the man’s breath butterflied over his skin.

“May I kiss you?”

“You may.”

The moments his lips touched his own, Lance's mind went blank. The touch was featherlight, the warm carefully almost frightful that Lance would perhaps break with the touch. 
He felt dizzy as Keith pulled back just the slightest. Their eyes met, and Lance threw all caution away when he gazed upon the hungry, intense look in his partner's eyes. 
So he leaned in himself, pressing more insistently on his partner's lips, and he could feel Keith give in under him. A hand found its way to his chin, thumb caressing his skin, as they pressed together. Lance put a steadying hand on Keith's chest. And just as fast as it had begun it was over. 
Keith drew back, breathless like the motion pained him. Lance held his breath.
Lance was no stranger to flirtatious behaviour, and he had kissed his share of more promiscuous ladies, but he was not Lance right now. He was Katherine, and for a moment he had forgotten. Keith was not kissing Lance. Keith was kissing sweet innocent Katherine, who had never held affection for another man and never indulged in such outrageous behaviour. 
“That was nice.” Lance croaked. Then Keith dove in again, gripping Lance’s face with both hands and Lance melted, opening his mouth eagerly to deepen the kiss, his hands falling into his lap in resignation as he was being kissed in the dimming light. The ribbon carefully wrapped around Lance's head, came loose falling around him, wrapping tightly in Keith fist as the man pulled at it, giving room for him to room his fingers through Lance’s hair, nails lightly scraping his scalp.  

That night Lance undressed alone. He felt dazed and flushed all over. He felt the hint of arousal running over his body. He had enjoyed that. He had relished in the feeling of the other man's kiss. He had felt wanted. The feeling of his breath against his. His heart beat under his pam, drawing out the sound of the blood boiling in his veins. Nothing more had happened. Lance had come to his senses and left, leaving the lord behind alone on the couch. Ulaz had left when the couple had drawn nearer. But Lance happened upon him, Kolivan, Ezor, Axca and a handful of other servants, lingering near the door, obviously not eavesdropping. 
With haunted breath Lance whisked past them, keeping his head low, eyes locked on the floor, but he was sure they saw the flush on his cheek. Possible all the ways up and over his ears. Lance knew it was unbecoming to leave the lord alone like that. But he wondered what could have happened if he stayed. How much further he would have dared to let the Lord touch him. Hands wandering, gripping flesh, breath hot in Lance’s ear. Only to find… not what one should expect. No. Lance could have ruined them all with such impure dangerous thoughts. Katherine was a lady. A lady should not participate in such behaviour. It was only right that he left. No matter how much Lance craved the touch of the man, it was not for him, unnatural and a true disaster if he had let that escalate further. 
Lance groaned as he remembered Keith flustered expression when Lance broke the kiss. Then groaned loader, when he remembered the look of sadness when Lance left him there. But for Lance it had probably just been in the nick of time.
“Oh gods.” Lance cursed looking down at his body's signs of how much he had enjoyed the evening. 

He undressed and sat in front of the vanity to pull off the last of the jewelry, and tore at the lace at his throat. He looked back into the mirror of a person he did not recognize anymore. 
The scared blustering face was not what he came to recognise of himself. But not Katherine’s anymore either. Not with his short hair. Katherine never looked like this. Katherine was always radiant, smiling and beautiful. Nothing like the mess before him. 
He looked down at his wrist at the bracelet and he held it to his face, letting the cold metal clear his mind, and he inhaled and exhaled deeply. He did not do this. He did not go around kissing people. Epically not engaged people. He was playing Katherine, but that did not give him permission to kiss Katherine’s fiance. What was the matter with him? He did not feel like himself any more. He had not felt like himself in a long time. The tears pricked in his eyes and it hurt to breathe. He pulled his frog over his head, making a mess of it as he heaved uncontrollable for air. The air burned in his lungs as he choked, the tears finally winning, starting to fall down his cheeks, ruining the little make up he wore. The strings finally gave in on the corset and he heaved a sigh as he collapsed in his own arms at the vanity. Corset still on but loose, the string broken, his own chest heaving up and down, pecs peaking out over the hem of the corset, as the top of his chemise had come loose revealing what was not there. His petticoat and skirts were a mess around him, with one stocking off and one barely holding off. Makeup smudged, hair unruly, the only pretty thing was the shining bracelet at his wrist.

Was this his life now? 
Gasping for air, living like a person he was not. Always playing the fool, nobody appreciated him for who he was. Because who was Lance anymore? Nobody had seen him for months. He had been so absorbed in his role. To keep up appearances, to appease mama. To make Keith like him. And Keith did in an odd way, Lance thought to himself. But he would love Katherine more. More than whatever was going on between the two of them at this point. Katherine was to be his wife. Lance had no right to harbor feelings for the man. He did not recognize himself anymore. 
He choked as the sobs spilled out and he grabbed his stomach and sank down off the chair, half sobbing and half gripping for air, laughing hysterically at his life. He would not escape unscathed from this he realised. Because he was utterly and impossibly infatuated and simply in love with Lord Keith Kogane, and he was destined to get his heart broken, and he would let it be. 

This was how Shay found him later. A quivering mess on the floor, dress half undone, with tears and makeup running down his face in most undesirable fashion. She only left long enough to get Hunk. Lance had quieted by then. They two of them cleaned him up between them and helped him to bed, where he remained silent refusing to tell what illed him. So they just sat there by his bedside. Shay petted his hair and Hunk held his hand as he fell asleep. 
The next day he still refused to talk about it. 
He bathed, washed and dressed for the day. Then he planted on his most dashing Katherine smile and walked down to have breakfast with the Kogane household.

Chapter Text

“I kissed her.”
“And you are complaining about this because?”
Shiro, ever the thoughtful brother, did not even grace his words by looking up from his book. Keith glared daggers at his undisturbed figure. While the servants were milling about the house getting it back in its usual shape and glory, Keith had sought refuge from the proceedings, so as not to be of inconvenience to the efficient hurricane that was Axca and Kolivan combined. Shiro was of the same notion and was hiding away in the library with a book. Krolia had put an arm around Keith's fiance and they had left to stroll around the landscape. That left Keith the perfect opportunity to talk to his brother, about the thoughts that had filled his mind from the moment Katherine had left him alone sitting in a dark parlour with a white ribbon clutched like a lifeline in his fist. Breathless, rumpled, blood flowing to places that it should not have gone, alone and so, to put it plainly, utterly confused.
“I do not go around and kiss women.” Keith cried, the tone more frantic than he meant to be. He pulled at his cravat. He had forgone his waistcoat and already shed his jacket for the more informal tone of the day, but he still felt constricted, like he was burning up from the inside, the more his mind whirled. Shiro had taken none of the same decencies as Keith had applied and sat simply in a light shirt and trousers, adorning his robe, sipping his tea and pointy refusing to acknowledge Keith’s presence.
“No, of course not. No gentleman would do such a thing.” He turned a page, eyes still focused on his book, his spectacles firmly planted on his nose.
“You and I know, that was not what I meant.” Keith complained. Shiro still did not look at him and it made Keith groan in frustration at his brother.
“Oh..?”
Keith paced the floor in front of his brother's chair. “You know how it is. You know the struggle.”
“Oh, so we are having this conversation.” Shiro sighed into his book, rubbing his temple already fearing what was ahead of him. 
“I am not supposed to be attracted to women!” Keith stated outright, arms falling out looking expectantly down at his brother. 
“‘Supposed' is such a strange word.“
“Shiro!!” Keith wined, but his brother only huffed and leaned back in his seat.
“You always knew that you wanted, you were never in doubt.” Keith tried to put his thoughts into comprehensible words.
“Obviously.” Shiro agreed, still looking uninterested in the proceeding of the conversation, with one finger pointedly tapping his temple and he leaned on the hand. Keith took another turn around the room, the walk making his words come more freely.
“But I am doubting.. This has never happened before, I always have..” He trailed off, only for his brother to spur him on,
“Always….?”
“I have always been attracted to men.” Keith concluded looking puzzled into thin air. Then the anger and frustration hit him once more, like it had last night.
“I have never been infatuated just because a pair of blue eyes and a pair of bosoms came flaunting in my face.”
“Maybe you have not just met the right person until now.” Shiro returned to his book.
“Perhaps you like the person and not the gender.” He remarked. Keith contemplated the statement as he walked about.
“Is that something someone can do?”
There was an uncommitted noise from the direction of the armchair.
“Maybe. I have to confess I am not in the same predicament as you are, so I am not so certain. I have always been reassured of my preferences.”
“That much is clear.” Keith winced, realising his brother was of no particular use to his problems. He left the room without as much as a wave from his brother. 

Still the feeling had burned into his brain. Perhaps there was an explanation to his most certain attraction to Katherine. Their spirited banter aside, Keith had never felt as he did with her. He felt like he could be himself around her. Not the Lord that all expected him to be. Not Lord Kogane. Just Keith. Keith, who loved horse racing, hunting, had a bad temper and could walk around without a waistcoat to restrict his breathing. She made it so easy to return to what he had been, before he was expected to be Lord Kogane within all hours of his life. She was more than Keith could hope for in a wife. A partner, a business associate and a rival. She was almost too perfect. That was why the attraction had come as a surprise sprung on Keith. He had wanted to please her, get in her good graces, make her smile and laugh, bide into his taunts and see the frustrated look in her eyes, when she fell into his trap. 

The urge to touch her, feel her skin, and feel her lips on his was unexpected to the point of terrifying. Keith had had the most unethical thoughts on that sofa. Of laying her down, letting him run his finger up her legs under her skirts, to free her from her bonds to see more of that tantalising flesh. To hear her moan, and flutter under his finger tips. That was not an expected reaction. Keith trousers felt tight with the bare memory. Were he suddenly attracted the the female sex. 
Yet another part of his brain was firmly convinced that he would be disappointed when he made his way under all the skirts. That much was sure. Her bosom and angular face may play into Keith preferences, but there was no denying what lay beneath the soft silk and expensive fabric. It was confusing to say the least.
Keith could comfort himself in the thought that he would not have to solve that predicament before his honeymoon days. Because he would not give in to his ungentlemanly urges. He would not dishonor his fiance like that. He was raised better than that. Keith was above his body and his mind and he would respect Katherine. No matter how much his heart beat at the thought. It would not happen.
Or maybe just a kiss once more.. Just to confirm his preferences….or perhaps two.
She certainly had not seemed reluctant last night. Or perhaps it was just the tiredness of the evening and the lucidness of the wine that had made her so pliable in his hand.

Keith took a deep breath and smacked his face between his hands to ground himself in reality, and not the unbecoming fantasy that was taking over his mind. The soft pliable  Katherine, was not HIS Katherine. His Katherine was a stubborn, loud mouthed, prideful wonderous lady, who would make an acceptable partner and a respectable admirable Lady Kogane.
His vaunderus mind would be still. His treacherous body that had held him awake wanting his lady would be compliant. He was Lord Keith Kogane.
“My lord!”
Keith felt his resolve crumble and his knees turn into mash by the sound of the voice. He turned as his fiance and mother made their way towards him. They had just handed over their coats and gloves to awaiting footmen. The fresh winds had given them both a healthy flush to their cheeks. Katherine's hair was unadorned today, a little tumbled from the winds and it made Keith's heart do a double beat. He reached out his hand to her.
“My dear!” He proclaimed dramatically making Katherine snark at the remark, but let him pull her close still to kiss her cheeks. She looked stunning as always in an emerald dress with long sleeves, with the bracelet just peeking out from the cuff.  
To Keith's surprise she seemed unaffected by the previous night's events. Like did she not feel like he did. Did her breath not hitch at the sight of him. Her lips tremble by the bare memory of his lips on hers. Her heart beating with exhilaration to be near him, like his did for hers. But it would seem not, as Katherine smiled her brilliant smile at him, ever the respectful lady and estimated finance.
“Mother.” Keith said instead to his mama, to still his racing thoughts and swallow the small disappointment. “How was your stroll?”
“Wonderful. The grounds are remarkable and I look forward to seeing how they blossom in the spring under Mr. Holt's care.” His mother remarked. “That reminds me, we ran into the youngest Holt. They seemed quite secretive. I would advise sending someone out with a bucket should their latest enterprise be of the more destructive nature. “
Keith rolled his eyes at the thought of controlling Pidge Holt. “I will keep that in mind, Mama.”
Krolia nodded and let them be.
“I have to show you something.” Katherine leaned in and whispered into his ear, making the small hairs on Keith's neck lift in anticipation. She pulled him by the hand to a sitting room that left them all alone. She started to ruffle her skirts, making Keith want to avert his eyes as heat flooded his senses. For a brief moment, Keith thought agasted that Katherine would resume their previous night activities, but instead she pulled a small book from her pocket. Keith tried to not show his obvious disappointment.
“What is this?” He asked through gritted teeth.
“It is a book of riddles my Lord.” The grin on the lady's mouth was unmistakable. She had something up her sleeve, and Keith knew he was gonna play into her game without the slightest bit of resistance.
“Oh…” Keith crossed his arms.
“I got it from my siblings, I think I have found one that your Lordship will not be able to solve.”
Keith felt the familiar ache, making his left eyes twitch. Trying to resist the temptation, but still the stubbornness to prove himself, even in as small a fashion as such.
“And what do I get, when I win your silly little game?”
She raised a tantalising eyebrow at him. “What would my Lord wish for as a price?”
Keith’s unhelpful brain decided to supplement with the only one reaction. A kiss. That was his price. One he would not dare to claim. So instead he said. “Silence.”
He only said it because he knew her reaction and it pleased him. “For one hour. You are not allowed to disagree with me. Make fun of me or mock me.“
The lady's eyes blew wide with disbelievement and her mouth hung open in horror, as they both knew she would be incapable of such a feast, and it would be a gruesome and horrendous punishment.
“You would not dare.”
“Then let us hope you have found a good riddle then.”
“And if I win!!” Katherine proclaimed, sticking a finger in his chest. “I will require a gift. Once that I select myself.”
“My dear if you win, then I will take you shopping myself.“ The thought of going shopping was dreadful, but he knew that even with his fiance so certain, there was no conceivable way he could lose to her.

There he sat two hours later in his chair, flabbergasted and annoyed, unable to give her a correct answer, his buttons loose, his hair dishevelled and his face flushed in frustration. He could not blame her. Her laughter that ran through the room, calmed his heart, and made all his hardship worth the glint in her eyes and her smug smile. Keith had resigned. He was truly all hers. In however form their relation would shape.

Chapter Text

The bell chimed softly over the door as they entered the small shop. Ladies and couples were already milling about, looking at the fine ribbons, silk scarfs and delicate lace. They perused around, speaking softly. Lance tried to look interested in all the different colours and exquisite handy work, but in truth he did not care for it as much as he was supposed to do in Katherine’s place. Lance had taken great pleasure in his victory, but now wished he had come up with a better price. He was truly horrendous at shopping.
After moving on from the third display with nothing more than a conformational hum, Keith took more notice. 
“You seem very concentrated.” He commented, making Lance flush. “Does it take such an effort to pick out lace?”
Lance shrugged a bit and turned his loop side shy smile on the man. “I have to admit I was never efficient or fond of such. I simply do not have a sense for fashion.”
“Ahh. So you would rather we spend our time elsewhere.” Keith leaned down to whisper in his ear, but Lance pushed him away with a playful smile.
“Tell me are the Great Lord Kogane afraid of some lace.”
“No, I just much rather spend my time on other pastimes.” His tone was soothing and flirtations as he leaned in once more. “I from your expression I can deduct that so would you.”  
Lance felt anticipation build in his chest at the promise. “Yes please.”
Happy with getting his will, Keith resumed a smug smile too ambitious for the setting, but Lance did not care.  
“Let us take a turn, and then leave.” He said, making Lance chuckle with relief. ”Makes it more natural that we do not flee out the door.”
“You clever man.” Lance remarked taking extra care to look interested in the wares, and not to look to smug himself with the prospect of leaving.

Still Lance’s own smile was apparently so contentious, that he received an equal heart warming smile in return from his partner in crime. They walked on to the next advertisement, a large display in the middle of the room that split the space in the shop into two, where a large array of lace gloves and fans were advertised. On top of the display were glass shelves on top of each other. Lance let his eyes wander over the shelves going upwards to pretend to look at the expensive fan at the top. His eyes stopped midway through, getting caught on the way. Pearing from the other side of the display were soft blue and pink eyes that sent a familiar soft ache through his whole body, that at once filled him with such fondness and such dread. He knew these eyes anywhere. Had yearned for them for years. They had haunted him in his dreams filled with sighs and broken hopes.
Allura Alfor’s eyes blinked confused at him from the other side. A single pale curl dangling near her ear, which could be seen through the display. Her eyes widened with recognition and Lance could hear her heave a surprised gasp into her lungs. Fear instilled in Lance veins. She had recognised him, he was certain of it, and not as Katherine. 
“Allura dear!!!” Lance proclaimed loudly in perfect imitation of Katherine, making Keith, Allura and other shoppers around him jump with apparent surprise. Lance surged around the display. 
Allura had barely got her bearings before Lance grabbed her arm, and pulled her into a careful calculated hug. She was as always the most beautiful stunning creature. She wore a shimmering pale pink dress, and a fashionable blue top coat on top of it, that matched her silk hat adorned with feathers, silk flowers and silk butterflies. Diamonds dripped from her ears, neck and hands, over her fine silk gloves. The slight chill had given her high cheekbones some a rosy blush, and her blue eyes, never wavering, shone in the soft light from the shop's windows. Her hair was pinned with perfection under her hat, and was so pale it was almost white. Her mouth was soft pink, and sent feelings through Lance that he thought he had long since forgotten. She was a divine beauty that sent most other ladies to shame.
“It is me Katherine. Oh how long has it been? How was your Solstice? It has been too long!!”
“Katherine?” Allura’s voice wavered, carefully tasting the name, but not quite buying the ruse.
“Yes?” Said Lance insistently, squeezing Allura's hand in plea. Allura’s eyes darted briefly around, before settling on something behind Lance and then returning to Lance with determination. 
“Ahh Katherine!!” She sang. “I almost did not recognize you. Truly, has it been so long?” She laughed pleasantly, but Lance recognized the tone and knew that he would hear of it later. For now, it seemed to settle the awkward mood in the shop, as other shoppers went back to their own shopping. 
Allura went in to kiss both of Lance’s cheeks. “What are you doing?” She hissed.
“Please. I can explain just…”
But before he could finish, a voice interrupted them. The stern voice sent chills down his spine, stomach churning anew.
“Ahh Miss McClain. How lovely to see you.” 
Lance released Allura as her fiance joined them and laid a possessive hand on Allura’s back. Mr. Lotor Zarkon, son of Duke Zarkon and Lady Honerva and heir to the title. He was a tall handsome man with hair almost as pale as Alluras. His vibrant eyes seem to glitter with intelligence and wit even if his mouth were curled in a stratified smug grin. 
He was an uttermost prick. 

Growing up Katherine and Allura were thick as thieves, but one thing had come between them in the end. This awful man. Being Alfor and the duke were friends, Lotor had been a permanent presence in Allura’s house growing up. And Katherine’s when she came calling. Both girls were deeply infatuated with the man, but as they grew older and came out into society their playful rivalry turned serious about acquiring his attention and affection. Katherine was not aware of her engagement at the time, and was convinced that Lotor was her one true love. But so was Allura. Lance had never understood the appeal of the man, as he was arrogant, bolstering, envious and vicious, when he wanted to achieve his goals. Lance entered school that year Lotor left and they crossed paths a couple of times, always in Lotor’s favour than in Lance’s.
The man himself found Katherine’s affection amusing, but saw her more as a baby sister than a possible bride. And he told her so in a most vicious way in front of a ballroom of people, who all laughed at the scene and sent Katherine home in tears. 
He had made it clear that he would never consider Katherine as a wife, not only because of her status, family, education but because she would never be as beautiful as Allura and would not be suited to become a duke’s wife. The man had been ruthless. 
And now every time Lance came upon the man, he liked to remind Lance that not only had he held Allura's affection over him, but that also Lance's sister had once held such amorous feelings. Lance despised him with every single fiber of his body. 

“How do you do, Miss McClain.” Lotor dralled. “Do you still hold such grudges for being discarded?” Lotor grinned, but at least Allura had the decency to look ashamed.
“Actually.” Lance triumphed, feeling a comforting warmth settling next to him. He reached back and rested his hand on the crock of a familiar arm. “I think you did me a favour. I mean, I have such a more prosperous match now.”
Lotor’s mouth fell slightly open, and Allrua blinked uncertainty. 
“May I introduce my fiance Lord Keith Kogane of Marmora.” Lance preened. 
Allura was the first to get her bearings. “Yes I had heard.. But I just never imagined … I mean…” She coughed lightly, searching for the right words.
Keith interrupted her.
“Mr. Lotor.” Keith said with a satisfied smirk, oozing disgust for the man across him.
“Mr. Kogane.” Lotor responded with the same venom.
“It is Lord now.” Keith reminded him, seeing how the title made Lotor stiffen with anger.
“You are acquainted?” Lance asked Keith carefully. Keith smiled softly down at Lance before glaring back at Lotor.
“Yes. Lotor and I go many years back.”
Lotor was about to resort, but Lance seized his chance. “How wonderful. Allura, why do you and I not go over here to look at some of the new lace they got in, and let the gentlemen get reacquainted. I saw a colour that would look positively wonderous on you.”
“I… Yes…” Allura hesitated about leaving the two men behind, accepted the hand Lance held out for her, and they whisked away to the farthest corner of the store. 
The men stood stoic behind them content with glaring ominously at each other. 

When they reached their destination far away from prying eyes and ears Allura retracted her hand swiftly and glared at Lance. 
“Good lord Lance. What by the spirits are you up to?”
“I can explain.”
“You better do so.“ Anger, but most at all confusion played at her features. ”What in the spirits are you wearing? I could barely recognize you.”
“You could not?” Lance could not help the sound of hopefulness from his mouth.
“No. I thought for sure you were Katherine, except there was most definitely something off about you.” 
Lance nodded thoughtfully, but Allura was certainly not done having her say.
“Why are you running around in Katherine’s dresses, pretending to be her.“ Allura leaned closer to Lance, her voice growing frantic as she whispered. “Cheating the poor Lord!! Have you no shame. This is preposterous even for you.“ She harrumphed and crossed her arm in a fashion that made her both seem intimidating and endearing.
“Is she in on this as well? Is it some wicked game the two of you play? Cheating, scheming… Ohh I know it was something you enjoyed to do in your youth, but as an adult? Really you ought to know better. Honestly…”
“Allura!” Lance tried to reassure her, but his voice was not heard.
“How can you do this? I thought better of you. You are not the man I once knew you to be. This is not who you are! How dare you…?”
She stopped when she saw his expression. 
“Oh god…” She gasped, anger fading away instantly. “How bad is it?”
“It is bad.” 
Allura choked on a sob, and grabbed at Lance's hand. She had known of Katherine's condition. She was one of the few Katherine had confined in. Especially since Katherine once fainted, while having tea with Allura. 
“Is she dying?” She barely dared to let the words leave her lips, with an ever so slightly tremble. Lance took pity on her.
“Allura. Of course not.” Allura shivered but kept biting her lip in turmoil.
“But it is severe?”
“Unfortunately yes.”
Another sob escaped Allura’s mouth, and she needed a moment to blink away the tears and fix her complexion. When she was prepared, her eyes became clear and her voice steady.
“Why are you doing this then? Why are you playing everyone for fools.” 
Lance bowed his head feeling the shame burry down on his shoulders.
“Katherine needs the inheritance after she is wed to secure further treatment.”
“So it is fruitless then.” Allura barked unsettled.
“No it is not. I am doing this for her sake, so when she does return to health, she will have a loving husband waiting for her. This is to ensure her happiness.“
“Her happiness?” Sorrow once again marred her face, accompanied by an even worse look of pity.” What about yours? How long has this been about? “ 
Lance tried to retrieve his hands, but Allura held them tight in her steel grasp.
“She had not left her bed since spring.”
Another strangled noise escaped Allura’s lips. Lance had never seen her in this state of disarray as she always kept up appearances when in company. It was one of the abilities Lance appreciated about her, and now envied. She shook her head furiously, curls dangling about.
“I knew I should have called. I knew I should have come to see her, but I was just so afraid that she would despise me. After all, with Lotor. I did not know if she still held blame. And then the whole affair with your father. And she never answers any of my letters.“
The statement made Lance’s heart jump in surprise.
“What? What letters?“ He asked, dazzled by the possibility.
“I..” Allura hesitated, suddenly unsure of her own voice.
“Allura what letters?” He insisted. This time it was he who held tight to her shaking hands.
“I have sent letters…. Since before your father's death. But I never received replies. I simply assumed she did not wish to respond.” 
Lance felt faint as dizziness and dread started to overcome him. He squeezed Allura’s hands to ground himself.
“Allura, Katherine never received any letters.“ 
Allura’s mouth fell open, as Lance explained.
“Katherine had been sighing after word from you since your falling out, but never received any from you. I even wrote some for her when she was too sick to write. Have you not received them?” 
“No.. I have not.” Allura’s eyes crinkled at the corners as a smile fought its way back, by the thought of her dear friend reaching out for her. Lance nodded, her smile contiguous. 
“So you both sent letters, but none of them have been received. This is most bizarre.”
Lance reached out and put a reassuring hand on Allura’s shoulder
“My sister does not hate you. She misses you dearly. I think if you called on her, she would welcome you.” Allura blinked away new more joyous tears, but Lance pulled at her once more.
“But for now, I have to swear you to secrecy. Please Allura. As my friend. And if not for my sake then for Katherine.” The silence stretched between them. 
“Please….” Lance begged her. After a moment Allura nodded after looking around to see if anybody was listening in.   
“Katherine is my most dear friend.” But then she added. “But so are you.”
Lance looked perplexed at her honesty and genuine smile
“You do not need to use Katherine’s name when your own will do just as well.”
She smiled and reached her hand out stroking his cheek. “I missed you too.” She heaved, threatening to be overtaken by another sob.
Lance snuffed out his own tears and reached out for her in a desperate embrace. His whole body threatened to quiver, but instead he just focused on Allura’s strong hold of him and the nostalgic scent of her hair and skin. He straightened up and corrected his own hat and clothes, just as Allura mirrored the motion before him. After a moment of breathless staring at each other, Lance continued.
“I am currently residing at Marmora for the rest of the month. You should come calling sometime soon.” A twinkle lit up Allura’s eyes.
“I would be most delighted.“ 
There was the sound of a scuffling from the front of the shop, and Allura glanced apprehensive towards it. 
“We better return. I fear leaving the two of them alone for too long.”
Lance had not given the two gentlemen a thought, since they had let them be.
“Have they such an spiteful past between them?” He enquired only for Allura’s eye to twitch ever so slightly.
“From what I can determine, they will never quite see eye to eye.”
“Let us make haste then”

The two gentlemen was quickly but efficiently pulled outside the shop before they started a spectacle inside. Keith looked quite smug still, confirming he had the winning steak from their verbal blows inside. Lotor looked annoyed and a bit flustered if Lance perhaps squinted. But it mattered not anymore. Lance turned to Keith with determination arm in arm with a Allura and declared.
“I will ride with Miss Allura, and then return to Marmora in the evening.”
“And how will I return home?“ Lotor protested.
“I am sure the Lord will be most commendable if you ask nicely.” Lance suggested and pulled Allura towards her carriage.
Lotor looked affronted by the suggestion. Lance gave Keith a stern look. 
“Behave yourself.”
“Of course my dear.“ Lance rolled his eyes not believing the statement for a second. But he let Keith kiss the back of his hand and help him into the carriage next to Allura, making the gentlemen sort them self out. 

They made way with haste for the McClain estate, and surprised the family with the call. 
“La… I mean Katherine my dear. What is the meaning of this? “ His mama was quite flustered by the appearance of Allura at her doorstep.
But Lance just pushed past his mama with Allura as they made hast up the stairs. On the way Lance discarded his hat and gloves, and received Allura’s as well. 
They reached the correct door, and Allura breathed a sigh of relief. Katherine blinked awake in her bed, slowly getting up to a more upright position.
“Allura?” She sighed, sleep clouding her words, but the name was spoken with love and adoration.
Allura squeaked most unladylike and threw herself at the bed, where she grabbed her friends hands, kissing them softly while tears streamed down her face. Katherine patted Allura reassuringly with disbelief that the woman was present in her room. She looked to Lance for guidance, but Lance just smiled smugly at the two of them, while Allura begged forgiveness and made declaration of love. Smiling he left them to it at seaked out his mama. 

She looked pale, grabbing hold of her seat, dapping her face and neck as sweat dripped from her forehead. Veronica sat next to her smelling salt at the ready, Luis lumming nearby. 
They all looked up upon Lance's entry. He placed his and Allura's accessories on a nearby chest.
“What have you done!!” His mama accused gripping her handkerchief. Lance just turned his eyes to the heavens ignoring her cry.
“Nothing that was not necessary.” 
His mama looked ready to protest, but Lance stopped her with a simple question. 
“Where are the letters mama?”
She faltered, skin losing the colour she had left. Veronica and Luis looked confused between them not following the conversation. 
“I can not fathom what you are..” She flustered, fidgeting in her seat.
“I will not ask again, mama. Where are the letters?”
The sternness and coldness in Lance's voice was unforgiving and made Mrs. McClain swallow deeply.
She slowly rose from her seat and backend Lance to follow her. 
The siblings followed them with slow steps keeping a distance between themselves and the tension between mother and son. Lance may still be wearing a dress, but he exacerbated more controlled respect and grievance as had he been royalty. 
They all watched as they entered Lance's fathers old office, where their mama fished out a gold chain with a small key from under her top, and turned the lock in one of the drawers in the desk. From there she retrieved three bundles of letters. She gasped, hand going to her face in horror over her actions. 
Each bundle was held in place with a string so they did not mix. Lance recognised his own handwriting from the letters meant to go to Allura from him and Katherine. The other larger stack was labelled with Katherine’s name in Allura's recognizable flourish. But It warmed Lance to see the small pile bearing his own name, despite the resentment he felt towards the woman he thought he trusted most in the world standing across him. 
He reached out and wiped the bundles off the table and into his purse, before turning to leave. His mama reached out for him but he did not look at her as he spoke. 
“I will return to Marmora after I have delivered this.“ He declared as a farewell.
“I will still do my duty. Not for you, but because my sister deserves it. I hope you think about what you have done, and what you almost destroyed.“
He had made it five steps out the hall before his mama got her barings and yelled after him in the doorway.
“Destroyed!! I am protecting this family.”
Lance looked back at her with cold eyes, thinking of the two crying women upstairs, his petrified looking brother and sister behind their mama, the decaying house, his own labored breathing in his cage and the crescent marks still evident on his arm. He thought about Keith’s soft, kind eyes and how they would turn on him with aversion if he was ever to know the truth. 
“And how marvellous work you are doing at it mama.”
He left his family and asked Allura’s driver to drive him to Marmora, then return for Allura immediately afterwards. 
The driver nodded and helped Lance inside just as Veronica came running out the door. 
She grabbed the side of the carriage.
“I did not know.” She panted. “I had no idea what.. That she…That I had….” Lance looked at her hand at the door, preventing it from closing. 
“I did not know.” Veronica insisted. 
Lance patted her hand until she let go, then signed the driver and they drove off leaving her standing solitary behind.

Chapter Text

The darkness had already fallen over the estate when Lance returned, but the footmen had lit lanterns all the way to the main door, so the driver did not get lost. Lance had trouble calming his head enough to think clearly. He knew what he needed to do, and when one of the footmen, Thace, was his name, helped Lance out, Lance asked him. “Where can I find Mr. Garret?”
“In the kitchen miss.” 
“Thank you kindly.”
Lance hurried up the steps, just as the door opened, Keith waiting expectantly on the other side.
His smile vanished when he took note of Lance’s agitated state. He reached out to welcome Lance, but Lance raised a hand. “Please do not ask me, because I am not ready to speak about the matter yet. I am sorry for the trouble, please…. Bear with me.”
Keith looked troubled but nodded. 
“I will come seek you out once I have gathered myself. Please.”
Another nod, and Lance whisked away. Newfound equal respect. Lance would seek him out, once he had calmed his troubled mind. He must.
Shay and Ezor appeared and Lance started to hand over his gloves, jacket and hat.
“I am going to go speak with your husband.”
Shay nodded and sent Ezor ahead to clear the kitchen as they walked.
By the time they reached the Kitchen, Ezor had pushed most of the staff away, leaving only Hunk and a couple of kitchen maids back, who left as soon as Lance walked into the door. 
The room was filled with smells of spices and the meat cooking over the stove. 

“Hunk..”
“That sounds bad…” He said before Lance even got a chance to explain. “Shay, take her to the side chamber, I will join you swiftly.”
Shay grabbed Lance's shoulders and guided him next door, where the staff ate their meals, giving way for the kitchen staff to resume their duties for dinner.
Hunk appeared some time later with a steaming mug of warm milk for each of them.
“Alright, now we are ready. What happened? The chatter said that you met Allura in town and drove back with her. The Lord had to drive Mr. Lotor to the inn he was staying in. It was all over the house. Are you alright?”
“Hunk…. I am….fine…” Lance gasped between gulps of the warm liquid spiced with lemon and cinnamon, just the way he preferred it.
“Are you sure..?”
Lance drew forth his bundles of letters. 
“What are those?” Hunk accepted the bundle and turned it carefully in his hand. Shay leaned in next to him to look.
“Allura did not hold hostility towards me and Katherine after all. She sent us both letters after all. They just never reached us. “
Hunk studied the parchment. “Where did they go…?”
“Mama had them..”
The Garrets remain silent, as Lance's eyes glazed over, the events and the struggles of the day washing over his body. Hunk hesitated, weighing his words carefully, but the skepticism was clear in his voice. 
“Why would she withhold such important correspondence? She knows how fond you both are of her.” 
Lance snorted in a highly unbecoming manner, but Lance could not be bothered to keep up proper etiquette at this moment. 
“Why does mama do anything? Why did she fire you? Why did she let Marco be sent off the army even if he despises the profession? Why did she make Luis sell his own house, which he bought with his hard earned money? The whole reason I am here now!!?” 
He sighed heavily, shaking with the outrageousness of the situation.
“To protect the family of course.” He huffed and groaned in frustration.
“Why do I not feel protected? Why do I just feel foolish, and used, and angry and humiliated… and.. And..? “
Lance turned about the room growling, pulling at his short hair in distress, skirt twirling about him with each move. He rubbed the heels of his hands at his eyes, to holt the god forsaken stupid tears that threated to spill. It was more anger than anything at this point, but Lance still wanted to scream his heart out. 
“What more does she keep hidden to protect us? To protect herself?“
The couple looked more and more concerned at him as he hissed.
“I will have to tell Keith. I do not think I can bear it much longer. I am suffocating.” 
A large strong hand landed on Lance's shoulder. Only then did Lance notice his whole body shivering with exuberant agitation. Hunk smiled down at him, but his eyes were firm.
“I am sure the Lord would come to understand. But this is not the right time. You are very agitated. You are not thinking logically. Where is the man with a plan I always knew?“
Lance raised an unimpressed eyebrow and gestured to his bodice and dress.
Hunk chuckled. “Fair. But still. Do not act before you are certain that is what you wish. There is no turning back once the truth is out.”

Lance covered his face with his hands and groaned frustrated, boarding on that of a scream.  When he was done, he sank sunken down in on the nearest chair. “I just do not wish for him to recent me.” He spoke softly, feeling the ache in his chest. His hand seeked out the bracelet in comfort.
Shay moved closer and pulled Lance into an awkward but gentle hug, Hunk joined on the other side. When Lance looked up again his friend held out his bundle of letters and a knife to open them with. He sat down by the table and opened the first letter which he read by candle light. At some point during which a plate of food appeared. Hunk and Shay took turns watching over him, while the other helped out with dinner.
By the time Lance was finished, the empty plates, carafes, and silverware were returning to the kitchen. Lance squeezed Hunk’s hand in thank you and returned up stairs leaving the warmth and comfort of the kitchens behind. 

“Come sit with me?” Lance asked. Keith jumped in his seat but rose to meet Lance halfway into the room. Lance pulled his shawl around him closer as they went to sit by the fire in the darkled room.
Carefully Keith folded an arm around him, and Lance rested his head on the Lord’s shoulder staring into the fire.
“Did you behave?” Lance asked in jest to lessen the tension in the room. Keith huffed.
“I was on my best behaviour.”
“You may unfortunately have to see more of the man. Allura and I seem to have rekindled our friendship. So there is a possibility that they may come calling in the future. Now or after we are married. “ 
A shiver of something rolled over Keith's face before he commanded it away. Disgust perhaps. But he settled quickly into his charming smile and pulled Lance closer.
“Is that so?”
“Yes.” 
Keith hesitated for a moment then commented shyly, like he was tasting each word as he spoke them,  
“I am afraid I will never think too highly of her choice in husband.“
“No agree. He is the most atrocious. “ Lance hummed, leaning further into the embrace.
“Just awful.“ Keith agreed.
“Vain and selfish.” Lance added.
“Such vanity and carelessness and…”
Lance looked up at him and Keith cracked a smile, making them both burst into soft laughter.
“Can you believe I was once infatuated with the man?” Lance said hating every word coming out of his mouth. Keith shifted to better look at him, with open dubious eyes. 
“Oh yes.” Lance said. “I was wholehearted sure he was the man of my dreams, whom I would build a home with.” Keith looked horrified by the thought. Lance grinned mischievously and poked Keith in the side with his elbow. “That was of course before I knew I was meant for a so much better man.”
Keith let his look soften a bit by Lance's words and let Lance lean on him once more.
“Yes, quite foolish. Me and my brother both.”
Lance hid his face away into Keith’s lapel.
“What do you mean?”
“Did you know he used to hold affections for Allura.“
Another silence.
“Quite foolish when looking back at the time. I was not jesting when saying my brother fell in love.“ Lance did not dare to face Keith, as he continued to share his deepest thoughts about himself.
“He had done so many times, but none quite like he did with Allura. She is a special caliber of a woman. He did not stand a chance. Foolish boy.” 
Lance focused on the log in the fire that was collapsing in on itself, burning from the middle and destroyed from within. “So Foolish.” 
“I do not think him foolish.” Keith said.
“No?” Lance asked, peeking out from his spot Keith’s chest.
“It takes quite the courage to fall in love so many times.” Keith said, looking into the fire himself. Lance sputtered, affronted by the notion.
“Courage. You think my foolish brother courageous.”
Keith shrugged unbothered.
“Knowing he is bound to have his heart broken, but still goes after his heart anyway. Takes quite some effort and guts to do so.”
Lance lighted him off. “Of please. It was puppy love. You must be aware. Young, silly, fruitless and foolish. Come now you must remember what it is like to be young and in love.“
Keith grew silent beside you. Lance’s staring intensified tremendously, but the Lord did waver. 
“My lord. I may be so bold. Have you never been in love?”
Still no response. 
“Never ??” Lance gasped in disbelief and horror. Keith tilted his head, looking intrigued by the fire.
“I do not believe so.”
Lance looked flabbergasted at the man. He remained silent for only a moment before taking Lance's hands between his own.
“But..” He said after a moment of stroking Lance's hand, while Lance gapped unattractive at him. 
“I think I have fallen in love with you.”

Chapter Text

There will always be consequences. The miraculous appearance of Allura and her rekindling friendship with not just Katherine but Lance as well, were not an acceptable turn of events according to Lance’s mama. 

The first time Allura came calling to the Marmora Estate it took everyone by surprise and mostly Lance. He thought that Allura would like to focus on his sister, but Allura was just as kind as she was beautiful, and had not forgotten Lance for even a moment. She arrived with great flourish and scooped Lance into a firm hug the moment she walked through the door. She had not even removed her outside jacket before she had pulled Lance close and kissed his cheeks. Gracefully she greeted Keith and his family, before she drew Lance in close and then walked past the rest of them for some “Ladies time”. They sat alone in the parlour for hours just conversing, and sharing about the time that had passed between them. When the sitting room got too stuffy, they took to the gardens, then went back to the sitting room, before they decided to tour the large estate arm in arm. Lance felt his heart burst with appreciation for his old friend. Allura let Lance be himself around her. It mattered not what he was wearing or what he looked like. They were still the same people, like the children the had once been. Lance felt that Allura had given him a small part of himself that he had previously forgotten about. And before he knew better of it Allura came calling almost every other day. And the day she did not spent by Lance, she spent with Katherine. She had also been taken on as an accomplice, being the secret messengers between the twins, to bring back and forth letters between them, beside keeping them both in very much appreciated company. Lance had barely spoken to Katherine since his departure to Marmora. He was instructed by his mama not to send letters that could be apprehended and discovered, but Lance now wondered what her true reasonings and motives might have been. The woman he thought he knew so well, had frayed under the following months as Katherines health did not improve, and the longer Lance was kept near the Lord’s side. The warmth and love Lance remembered from his childhood had left her completely. Too caught up in keeping their appearance and good name afloat. Lance wondered many times during his stay, where the money had gone in the first place. Allura, the secret blessing kept him updated about his mama’s moods and movement, and wrote letters for Katherine when she herself was having troubles holding her pen. 

Lance had not known just how much he missed Allura until she came calling as often as she did. And he had not dared to feel how much he had missed his twin. It had been bearable at school, when he knew Katherine was well and safe at home, dancing around to balls charming the ton. But after the masquerade between the two of them, Lance felt closer and farther away from her at the same time. He had spent so much time mimicking her mannerism, trying to understand how she would speak and act, that he felt he understood her better, while his own sense of self seemed to fade with the time passing.
Allura made it both tolerable and intolerable. She loved both of the twins with equal admiration. Lance missed her when she was calling on Katherine, and blamed himself when she was calling at Marmora. But he appreciated her nonetheless. And especially the time she also spent looking after his sister.
The only thing he did not approve of was Lotor, who seemed it only appropriate that he accompanied Allura on some of her calls on the Marmora estate. They should have left to go back to the city weeks ago, but Allura had stayed with her father under guide to help him through a small cold, but really she stayed to be closer to Lance and Katherine.
Lotor had stayed by her as her devoted fiance, but Lance did not comprehend why Lotor felt like that particular title meant he had to breath down her neck all the time. He clearly did not enjoy coming to Marmora, and Keith had made it clear that he did not care for the other gentleman either. Neither Lance or Allura had managed to get any explanations out of either of the men, so their interaction remained a mystery left in the past. 

Allura also told her about her own engagement. It was clear that Lotor and Allura were the obvious match, but they were still somehow not married yet.
They had been sweethearts and courting still from back when Katherine had her eyes set on the blond heir to the dukedom, so everyone in the ton had expected Allura’s and Lotor’s wedding to happen within their first season. But now three seasons later, they were still not wedded. Allura explained that Alfor and Honerva had a falling out, and the animosity had infected both families. Lotor siding with his mama, and Allura with her papa. They still loved each other. They were just not as infatuated as they once had been, and now Honerva seemed to have endless excuses as to why the two could not get married.
“It would make more sense at this point to simply elope.” Lance said as he sipped his tea.
Allura almost dropped her own cup, her eyes growing wide with surprise.
“What? Have you not considered such?” Lance said unbothered as he dapped her mouth with a handkerchief.
“Considered yes. But never imagined to hear such a suggestion from the likes of yourself.“
Lance raised an eyebrow.
“Considering…. Our history.” Allura said carefully.
“I have matured in your absence.” Lance tittered, only for Allura to throw a scone at his head, and Lance to fire back his own biscuit, starting an alt out brawl, leaving crumpets, crumbs and sprinkles flying in the air, and scattered over the furniture in the after match.

“I still think you should arrange it.“ Lance said seriously, a calming hand on Allura’s arm. “My feelings and regards for you dear beloved aside.“ Allura struggled to hide the unladylike noise she uttered, to Lance's great pleasure. “If he makes you happy, and if he is the one. Then never mind the old hag. Grab the man and tie him down. You will figure out the rest.“
Allura surged forwards in a bone crushing hug.
“It would cause me great misery to be away from the two of you for so long. If I go, I would be gone for an awfully unknown long time to sort out the mess. I do not want for you to deal with this …… all this alone.”
Lance squished her back. “Write to me.”
Allura left redeyed, but happy. The next day it was all over the village chatter, and the society papers that Lady Allura Alfor had eloped with her fiance Lotor Zarkon, heir to the Duke Zarkon. Lance was content for her.
His mama was most certainly not. She may have been able to accept Allura returning into Katherine’s social circle, as Allura would have enough social standing to be of use. But her return into Lance perferi as well as her scandalous elopement with Lotor, was too much for his poor mama. She had somehow managed to figure out that Lance had been involved with Allura’s decision, or she had generally come to think the worst of her son over the last couple of weeks. Lance was not sure which held the most truth.
He was instructed to return back to the estate immediately. Lance had no say in the matter as Luis arrived and started packing his belongings with barely as much as a civil word. The reason given to their host was this.
The McClains did not want their daughter to suffer the same fate, and get unseemly ideas of eloping like the Alfor girl. Keith seemed dejected by the idea of Lance leaving, but was as always the gentleman and came to agree with his in-laws. Lance on the other hand was most distraught. He was granted one more night before he was forced back home, but the thought of returning to McClain estate filled Lance with conflicting emotions. On one hand he would be back with his sister. He had a sort of breathing room at Marmora despite being in disguise all the time, but it had been relieving. He could manage his own hours. Could seek out company or solitude if needed. The house felt more homey than his own had felt in years. The warmth of the house and its people was the first thing Lance could admit he would miss, and even the warmth of his sister would not fill that void easily. 
He would also be back in his mama’s grasp. He no longer trusted her. The grip she held on him felt more suffocating than comforting. Who knew what else she hid from him and his siblings. What else she had planned. How much Lance could be of use to her and his family. The lies and the betrayal had cut him deeper than he first imagined, and now the lie he kept from Keith made it worse. With the wedding getting closer and closer, these would be the last days he would be with the Lord in such fashion.
Lance had done his part. The Lord was in love with his sister, and would continue to care for her through their marriage. But Lance had given his heart to Keith and now, he would suffer the consequences. And he would do so in silence. Or so he thought.

With Allura no longer able to relieve the impact on his nerves, everything seemed much more overwhelming, and he would not even have Hunk or Shay to help him going onwards. They stayed here while Lance left. It had been a good blessing being surrounded by people he trusted. Now he knew their lost presence would leave their mark on his soul.
Laying alone in his bed, staring up at the curtains in the silent dark room, it felt like the walls were moving in on their own. The sounds of the house too loud and not loud enough. His breath was ragged, and his hands went to his throat, grasping from lace that he imagined suffocated him. His own lies felt like they were itching into his skin like hot pokers, making his skin ache and itch. All while his mind remembered purple eyes, and hot lips on his skin. Tracing, scotching, suffocating, warmth spreading downwards, while Lance felt nailed to the sheets. Imagining hands and eyes on him in the dark. Eyes that vent from caring to ice cold and threatening, as hands went to his neck to strangle him, while the lips screamed at him of his betrayal.
Lance sat up, head throbbing, drenched in sweat, the feeling of hand on his throat ghosting over his skin. He shivered, goosebumps rising to the surface and he curled in on himself. The oven in the corner had gone out during the night. Lance briefly thought about ringing the bell string to summon a servant to come light it up for him, then hated himself at the thought of forcing someone from their bed. So instead he found a shawl and set out to find something to light the wood with. His bare feet felt cold and heavy on the floor, and the wind pulled at the windows as he walked the corridors trying to chase his nightmare away.
“My dear?” The sound did not feel like taunting this time, but warming and comforting. Lance looked up and back from the door he just pasted. Keith peaked out from his office. His appearance revealed that he once more had been up too long, head stuck in his books, buried in his office. His eyes were small from squinting in candle light. His waistcoat, cravat and jacket discarded, his hair free from it bound, ruffled and untamed. The slight stubble barely visible if Lance had not spent hours staring at his face. The top of his shirt was open, giving Lance the ensnaring vision of his collarbone and down his pecs, where the tiniest bit of hair peaked forth. Lance crushed his sob, and ran for the man. He was met with open arms as Keith held him close. Lance gripped his fist in the fabric of his shirt, holding steady as not to topple over, the memory of his dream still taking hold of him. Large hands stoke his head, and arms went around him, pulling him closer. Lance hid his face in the man's collarbone, trying to disguise the sobs that raged through his body in waves, the angry tears piping out. Keith whispered sweet nothings into his hair, reassurances and stroked him up and down his back. When Lance felt like he could breathe again he looked up into Keith's large pools and seemed endless and soothing. It made him think of the ocean, of lighter days and endless promises he was about to break. Lance tightened his grip on Keith's shirt. 

“I have to tell you something.” He sniffled. “And I am afraid it is gonna hurt you.” He almost choked on the words as another wave of tears made him shiver. Keith just stroked Lance’s cheek, saying nothing, but just listening intently to Lance’s rambling. 
“What would you do if I told someone the truth, and you knew it would only cause harm to the others involved. How I know it will change things between us.” To Lance's surprise Keith only drew Lance close, snaking his arms around Lance trapping him in a embrace, leaning his face into Lance's nape and whispering his words into Lance’s ears. 
“If it is meant to be, then let it. That is what marriage is about. The ups and downs. We will sometimes hurt each other. But there will also be great joy. We will fight and we will love, and we will get through it together you and I. I am most certain of it. I feel I can take on the world with you by my side. Whatever is coming we will take it on together.” Lance felt like he would cry even more. Keith's words were so sincere and his eyes so intense that Lance really believed just for a moment that Keith really did love him. 
“The only thing I want is you.” Keith whispered. Lance's breath hitched, and he felt the almost cynical laughter bubbling up. 
“That is just the case. I am afraid you will not marry me after this…After what I will have to confess.”
“Then do not tell me.” Keith said breathing into Lance's neck, his other hand played with the short tuffs of his hair. “Tell me after the wedding.”
“But…” Lance gasped as a small kiss touched his neck. He looked aghast at Keith who drew back with a content smirk, but even that was not enough to heal Lance breaking heart.
Keith lifted his hand and once more traced the shape of Lance's face, his thumb stopping at Lance’s lower lip, making it part from the one above.
“I do not want to go.” Lance whispered in the dark, the tears already unbearable and unable to stop. Something possessive glittered in the Lord's eyes for a moment.
“Then do not..”
“I have to…” Lance gasped holding to the Lord's hand. “My family…. My family needs me.” His voice took a dip when he said it. He hoped Keith would take it as part of his hysteria, but Keith would never understand what Lance truly meant. It would be over soon anyway. He wore no lace, no makeup, no wig, no gloves, there was nothing to hide him. It was just him in a night frog and a shawl, and he hoped the darkness concealed him enough to keep the masquerade going for just a moment longer. His family was his everything, he would do anything, but he wanted this. He wanted Keith more than he had imagined he would. Keith did not know that Lance was saying goodbye. Goodbye to Keith, to this life to every moment they would never get together again. 
To everything Lance was giving up to back to his family, so he could be what he was supposed to be. A loving brother, a student, a dutiful son. Not this. Not this inconsolable mess, that had forced his unwanted love on an unknowing passenger. Lance shivered as Keith moved his hand to the back of his head, tangling into his hair, while the other one tried to dry off the last remaining residue on his face. Just once, Lance would have this. He raised to his toes, eyes closing, as his own hand moved to Keith's neck. He had barely moved before Keith had leaned down and taken his mouth. Lance made a small sound in surprise that drowned in the sound of pleasure, but also the sob that somehow managed to break through. Keith’s hands went securely to Lance's face, around his chin as he was pulled closer. He opened his mouth tentatively, getting a real taste of Keith's mouth, as he carefully let Keith take possession of the kiss. It felt hungry and desperate as this really was their last kiss for Keith. Because Lance for it was. The last one.
Lance drew back only to get one more leap of air and adjust the angle and his own arm to go around Keith middle, then let himself be swept away once more. When Keith's touch and kiss became more light and careful, Lance drew back wistfully, giving him the barest of smiles up at the man who held his heart. The look in the Lord’s eyes was intense but gratifying as they gazed down at Lance, and Lance leapt at the thought that he had done this. He had made Keith look like this, feel like this.
“It is not forever..” Keith breathed. “We will see each other soon.”
“I will feel like forever for me.” Lance whispered, sorrow setting in fully in his bones. He gave Keith one last look. Let himself run a hand down the man's perfectly sculpted face, feeling the texture and his skin, and the stubble itch against his hand. Keith leaned into the gentle touch, his eyes never leaving Lance's own.
Without a word Lance left. He pulled his shawl closer and walked forwards, determination in his steps. 

Ezor did eventually find him trying to find flint in the kitchen and she took pity on him and led him back to the room that soon should no longer be his. She left him with a lit oven and a cup of steaming milk. Lance felt bad for waking her, but she jested that he rather woke her, than burn his room down. Lance could not help his smile. Ezor leaned in and told him she looked forward to him moving in for certain, and if he would reconsider her being his ladies maid. Lance nodded and let her go. He would remember to recommend her to his sister, after he had returned home.
The next morning he was packed up and ready before breakfast and had been hurried out the door, with a strong arm of his brother around him as to secure he would not run back into the safety of the estate and Keith's arms. 

The next period in Lance's life was misery. He was being kept in the house forbidden to go anywhere unsupervised. His mama had met his resistance and decided to tighten the leash on Lance's already spartan freedom. His act of rebellion against her with the letters was not forgotten by either of them. Lance reacted more forcefully with each action taken by his mother. He resisted, argued and stood his ground, and with each act of insurgency his mama hardened her grip even further, taking away more of his freedom, his time, his belongings, his sense of self. She was relentless, ruthless in her quest so even his older siblings faltered in their support for her. Veronica had become more silent. Perhaps being alone with their mama without Lance as an intermediary to take the blunt of the onslaught, his mama’s ire had fallen on her oldest daughter instead of youngest son. Veronica seemed more likely to ally with Lance rather than their mama. She had not been back to her practice for some time, and was very agitated by it.
Marco was gone. Shipped back to his platoon to longer be Mama’s quandary. Luis was less and less in the house, barely seen. Forced to go back to the city for longer periods of time to work and earn a living for the house and family. His family remained in the house, but Lizzy was focusing on her children, their education and generally shielding them from the internal family drama. She was by default the new matriarch over the house, but Lance’s mama has not moved an inch from her imaginary throne, despite her whole estate and fortune was now controlled by her son.
The house felt constricting. 
The only optimistic thing was Katherine. She had started to be awake more, even taking a turn around the house to have breakfast. Lance made sure to air out her room frequently when she did, and the air seemed to do her good.
With the return of the light outside, the light returned to her eyes as well, and the colour to her face and lips. To see her bloom into her former self made Lance thrilled with relief. A small part at least. The other part felt his own selfish desire still wanted to hold onto what once he had held in his hand, even if it had never been truly his. 
Still. The Lord did come calling, and even if Katherine was awake it was still Lance who was asked to entertain. Always seated next to his mama, always a respectful distance from the Lord, with his mama’s hand steadily on Lance’s arm. Keith was not allowed to kiss his hand in greeting anymore, so fragile was his mama’s nerves. Nothing was allowed to go wrong so close to the wedding. 

Lance had just laced himself up for the day. He had started to wear wigs again to give the illusion that his hair was growing at rapid speed so Katherine’s own locks would be adequate for the ceremony. Katherine sat up in her bed after Lance entered to greet her, and borrow one of her earrings. They had been informed that the Lord and his brother would come to lunch with them. Katherine patted down her sheets and looked hopefully at her brother. 

“I am feeling much improved today, maybe I should meet with the Lord today.”
“No…. “ Lance said desperately before Katherine had finished her sentence. She looked back at him with surprise and a little bit of fear. Lance never raised his voice at her. 
“What?” She hesitated. Lance sighed and hurried to her side taking her hands, his curls from the wigs dancing about him. 
“I mean, we do not want to risk you. What if you exhaust yourself once more, and end back in bed again.” He patted her cheek. “It is such a shame so close to the wedding. You have just begun to feel like yourself again. I know I am overbearing, but please for me.. Let me help you.“ 
“You are quite right.'' She sighed, and Lance almost drew a breath of relief. These small sessions with the Lord was all that Lance had left. Katherine still looked displeased with the result of their discussion, but then peaked up with anticipation and a glint of humor in her eyes. 
“I only have to wait a month anyway. Soon I will have him all to myself anyway. “ She gave Lance a small pat. Lance lighted with the laughter not quite reaching his heart 
“Yes, all to yourself.“ He reassured her.

Chapter Text

The room bustled as mama, Veronica, Lizzy and Allura fluttered and muttered around a positively beaming Katherine. Allura had returned a month after her elopement, eyes shining and overall radiant. Lance already predicted her to announce that she was expecting at her own convenience any day now. Marriage did become her well. She returned just to throw herself into wedding preparations with Katherine. For while Lance was required to keep up appearances and be seen, Katherine, Allura and mama could plan the grand perfect wedding that Katherine was entitled to.
Kat looked radiant. She had a glow about her that had nothing to do with her complexion. She was happy. Happy because today was her wedding day. Her dress was absolutely stunning, and Allura smiled as she put fresh spring flowers into Katherine's hair. Her real long flowy hair had been twisted, braided and pinned to perfection, ready to be adorned with her veil and hat. They had only need to cut it a bit to hold up the ruse of the growing hair between Lance wigs and her own voluminous curls.
There was no lace around her throat, only the diamonds gifted by her love. She moved with grace and spirit with no trace of what has held her ill for so long. Lance stood back at the doorway watching them. He pulled at his cuff, their weight against his skin unnatural after wearing light materials for so long. His neck felt exposed without the lace covering it up, and only his cravat, borrowed from Luis' collection. He had slicked his hair back, polished his boots, and breathed a sigh of relief without being stifled by the corset. It felt odd to breathe freely again.
He had found one of his old suits. It was blue and maybe a bit sturdy, but it was enough for now. There had not been time or money for a new one his mama had told him. The funds had to go to the wedding. Still watching all the ladies in their brand new attire made Lance wonder if that really was the case. It was a dark thought, one he should not harbour against his mama or Katherine on this glorious spring morning. The birds were singing, the sun was out and the ground smelled fresh after last night's light rain. A perfect morning for a perfect bride his mama had sung out, overcoming with emotions as she gazed upon her youngest daughter. 

He stood back and watched them for another moment, before he tapped his hand at the door, knocking, making them aware of his presence. They cooed and awed as he entered, handing over the bouquet his mama had ordered for the bride. 
Katherine beamed and smiled at him. 
“Oh mama it is absolutely perfect.” Then she discarded the flowers to admire herself in the mirror, as all the ladies remarked how the bouquet would match her eyes and necklace. 
Lance tried not to frown at the dismissal, but he was not done yet. Kat was the blushing bride. She had other things to worry about than her twin brother today, but still.
“Katherine…”  He said, trying to be heard over all the titting ladies, while still keeping his tone commendable. His voice sounded rough after month of keeping it up to appear as the feminine sex. “If I could have just a moment of your time.”
“Perhaps if you are very swift.” She giggled.
Lance smiled through gritted teeth. It was as though he was not even there. Like they had all forgotten that he was the one that had made this day possible. He was the one that had given up half a year of his life to pose as her, to make the Lord fall in love with her, be enchanted by her. Half a year living as some else’s shadow. Half a year falling in love with Keith. Getting to know the man, getting to know what his touch felt like, how it felt when he held one close. Know how it felt to be kissed by him, only to give it up and give the fruits of his labour to his sister.  
He was called out of his stupor by a hand on his arm. 
“I am just jesting Lance. I am so grateful you are here.” Kat smiled her brilliant eyes up at him, tears threatening to spill over by bare happiness. This was his sister. His pure innocent sister, and Lance could not care to stay resentful to her. It was not her fault she has been ill. It was not her fault, he has lived as her. He had made that decision, that promise himself. His sister just wanted him to be happy. It was not her fault that he had fallen for the Lord. That he had fallen for Keith. 
He leaned down and kissed her cheek. She giggled and rested the palm of her hand against his cheek, leaning in to him. 
The women around them cooed. 
“I have something for you.” He said, and shifted his wrist, ready to take off his bracelet. The last token of the Lord's affection, that he had kept as a reminder only for himself. Of Keith. The Lord. The rest of his gifts had been handed over to Katherine immediately. She had raised an eyebrow at the sword, but had instead fawned over the jewelry, fans and dresses that Lance had been gifted during his stay at Marmora. The bracelet had yet remained with Lance. For now. 
The Lord was not his anymore. Never had been. He would have to let him go. And with that the bracelet.
“Something borrowed.” He jested to Kat, going to unclip the lock. 
The smile faltered a bit on Katherine's face, before their mama jumped in pushing Lance gently but resolutely away. 
“I already have that covered by my boy. No need for men to be involved.” Katherine sent Lance a sad smile, mouthing a ‘I am sorry’ under her breath. Lance left resigned as his mother shooed him away and out the door, to keep him from discrating Katherine. 

Lance left the room feeling oddly numb. He looked down at the bracelet in his hand. The stones shone in the light and his field of vision felt oddly fussy. He gasped as he noticed the tears running down his cheek. He really ought to know better.
Appalled, he angrily wiped them away, gripped the jewelry tight in his fist and walked away, the sound of his sister’s happiness growing duller with each step. 
He did not stop before he was out the back door of the house, away from the bustling of the family preparing to take off to the church with Nancy, Cook and the butler running around. The wedding breakfast would be at Marmora of course. Katherine’s new home. 
He weaved around the building and sat down on a couple of stairs leading into the kitchen, where he fought with his tears and hissing breath. 
He stared down at the colourful stones in his hand. They would haunt him forever. He raised them over his head to throw them away, but halted at the ache in his heart. 
He breathed out again. Silly to be overcome with emotions.
He could simply not do it, he realised. He held the chain, to his chest shivering letting the last of his tears go. 
Enough was enough. Keith was not his anymore. But he would keep the bracelet as a reminder of what had been. Of his experience, the reminder of the love for his sister, and his own broken heart. Keeping it as a reminder that he could not, and would not love his sister's husband. He could not. Enough was enough. He would let go. 
Let go. 
Let go.
Let go!! 

Keith beamed as he walked into the house. He could not contain himself, he surprised himself with his own reaction. He was getting married to a woman, and he was not marking it as the end of his life, rather the beginning of something new. Mrs. McClain had been set in stone after the flight of Miss Allura, now Mrs. Allura Zarkon. Eloping had caused the women to act unreasonable and keep her daughter even closer, making it impossible for Keith to be let near and have a decent conversation even with Katherine.
But from today on he would not have to worry about such. Katherine would move back to Marmora, the estate already buzzing with elation of having their lady returned to them. Keith was entirely of the same notion. It had felt natural to have Katherine in his home. Her absence was missed in the house, and Keith had returned to his city lodging not to have the memory of her haunting him through the house. Krolia had instead taken over the house in his absence with Shiro still in residence as they two tried to reconcile once more.
She insisted she was only here until Katherine returned, and then she would leave. But Krolia had become quite fond of her future daughter in-law, and Keith had been rather fond of having his family around him once more. She was welcome to stay for as long as she desired. He had spent his time selling the Holt’s latest contraption. The added bonus of Hunks' knowledge had led to fewer accidents and fires in the new house, making the siblings more efficient. Lots of new patens in his near future it would seem. His house flourished, his family was coming together and his business was faring quite well. Only one more thing and Keith would be accomplished. His dear Katherine. Her last kiss had been the reassurance he needed. She was his person, never mind her sex. He straightened his coat and opened the door to the McClain’s house, before the butler could open the door himself. The butler was quite startled to see the Lord as they were all meant to meet at the church. Half of the town had already flooded in to get a seat even if the ceremony still was an hour away, and Shiro and Krolia were already making their way over. But Keith had excitement in his heart and a joy to his step and he just had to see his bride. He had a new gift under his arms as an excuse to see her smiling face and brilliant eyes. But more importantly, inside there was a letter containing all his thoughts and feelings.
He had been up late last night, unable to catch sleep as his thoughts and anticipations had flowed around his room, making sleep unattainable. So he had gotten up to his writing desk and written down all his thoughts he could compose on the matter of Miss Katherine McCain. One, to show her how he truly felt, because his words did not do him justice and his actions were not always commendable. He was fueled by his temper and emotions at times as it had shown in the past, and probably would in the future, but Katherine was prepared for that.
The second, also to assure himself of his choice. For her and for himself and for the future that soon would be theirs to share. 

“Good morning!” He grinned at the flustered butler as he strode inside, making the way to the stairs, taking multiple steps at the time. He faintly registered that someone was calling his name. The butler and Mr. Luis McClain perhaps. But Keith's eyes were set on his goal as he walked upwards and onwards towards Katherine's room. He knew exactly where it was located. Under tea in the office where Katherine had been meant to help with his books, and Keith had meant to be working, she had drawn up a hastily map explaining where she and each of her siblings resides in their spacious home.
The door was white and there was a large flower pot outside on a small dresser, filled to the brim with wild flowers. He knocked briefly on the door before announcing his presence.
He opened the door to much circus, where the ladies tittered about, but Keith had only eyes for one woman in the room. Katherine gasped in surprise when she saw his entrance in her mirror located across from the door. Her voice light and soft, the joy and anticipation evident. Her mama was fussing over her, but she pushed her mother's hands away to turn in her seat to look at Keith.

Keith froze. Katherine grinned back at him, smile gleaming, eyes filled with love, breath fluttering, each curls placed with perfection, her small veil dancing around her, making her look ethereal. Blue eyes crinkled at the corners with bliss and her lips soft and pink ready to be kissed.
Still the cold settled in Keith's stomach, because this was not his Katherine. She was Katherine no doubt, but she felt wrong. He looked at her and Keith felt….. Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Emptiness. Like he looked upon a stranger. The ladies around the room took sudden notice of his reaction, becoming silent and looking uncomfortable between the couple. Keith could not believe his eyes. Katherine was right there. Right before his eyes, just as he remembered her, but it was all wrong. Mrs. McClain said something about nerves, but Keith's ears were drowning in static. Katherine turned more, rising gracefully from her seat, her dress shifting around her body, her eyes grown fearful.
She reached out a hand for him. “My love?” 

Keith's world seemed to shatter.
“Who are you?!” He hissed, scaring all the women in the room, even making Katherine flinch in her seat, like she had been slapped by the harshness of his words. But Keith felt his inside burn up with anger, because he did not know this person. This imposter. This was not his Katherine. He had no idea who this woman was and what she was doing here.
Katherine called Keith ‘My Lord.’ Never ‘My love.’
It was always ‘My dear’ and ‘my lord’, in this complex dance between the two of them.
The woman looked broken by Keith’s bitter words, but Keith felt his temper flare as she tried to get her bearings.
“My love, why do you react so… What could you….?”
“I do not know you.” Keith seethed, most uncaring. “I have no idea who you are. I have never let my eyes on you before this moment. So you have exactly one minute to tell me who you are before I leave this house and never return. “
Mrs. McClain sprung into action, as her daughter seemed to wither before them. Mrs. Allura had her hand in front of her mouth in horror over Keith’s words but Keith could care less for their audience. Mrs. McClain lay a hard hand on Keith’s arm, but Keith retrieved it with a force that made her jump back in fright. None of the ladies were speaking. All looking uncertain and unnerved, so Keith’s response was to groan in frustration and leave the room. His anger was boiling in his veins, making his head clouded and his thoughts confused.
He stormed out of the room, only to collide with Mr. Luis who looked whiter than a sheet. He looked towards the open door, where his family watched them with dismay. Katherine had broken down in front of her mirror, sobs already shaking through her body.
Mr. Luis opened his mouth to speak, but Keith pushed past him. He needed to get away. He needed to think. His insides are churning awfully and threatening to turn on him and his breakfast. There was an unbearable ringing in his ears and white in the corners of his vision. He was sure chaos had been left in his wake, but he just wanted to breathe.

He ran down stairs and hallways and somehow made it outside the house. The fresh air made his head clearer, but did not lessen his temper. What in the world was going on? Who was that woman? Where was Katherine? Was she hurt? What was Mrs. McClain’s plan? Was he being scammed? For what? His money? His title? What would the woman gain to marry off a different person than her daughter? To keep her own daughter close, and live off her inheritance. Had something happened to Katherine? Had that even been Katherine he had met all those long months ago? Who was that other woman? Was it just him? Was he going out of his mind? That was a different woman than the one that had spent a month at his estate was it not ? Had the pressure of this wedding and everything else finally got to him, and made him unable to recognize the woman he thought he fell in love with? Was this his mind telling him that he truly was not in love at all? That he was just forcing himself to be something he was not, but something was expected and required of him?
He wandered. Let his feet carry him, as he tried to calm his raging temper, the anguish building up. He pulled at his cravat, his trousers getting ruffled, as he kicked up dirt in his path. He ran a hand through his hair, running the nice split his brother had fixed for him this morning.

“My Lord?” Keith felt his heart leap. The words were spoken in a somewhat lower voice, but he recognised them all the same. He looked up and blue met him. Keith almost dropped his package.
There was a boy sitting on the steps leading into the kitchen. A man with whom he shared a sort of familiarity.
He wore an old blue suit, ill fitted for his build, but it only made Keith’s need to pull it off his body even greater somehow. His eminency short hair was slicked back form his eyes and clean shaven face. His grey trousers were freshly pressed and he clenched something in his fist with his hands resting on his thighs. Keith blinked away the blinding fuzziness. He knew those eyes. Knew and adored them. Knew the shape of the ears, peaking forth from the hair. Short brown hair he had run his hands through. Knew the brilliant eyes, the taunting eyebrows, the shape of the elegant nose and the angular face. He knew of the soft lips that normally were either set in a smug grin or or coy smile. Knew the feel of them on his own lip. The softness, the warmth, the taste.
Keith felt his body shake with the realisation. The feelings returned with twice as much force. The urge to run his hands over the face, the lips, the neck, the man's whole being. To kiss every inch of brown skin, to make the mouth curl into a smile and to hear the laughter from them. His Katherine was safe. She was not a phantom of his imagination. She was safe… He was safe. He, she, they…. His person was safe. And Keith still felt his love for this person in every fiber in his body as he strode over to the sitting person. His feet felt heavier with each step as he drew nearer.

His person rose up from the steps with urgency.
“My Lord?!” They tried again.
Keith collided with far too much force than necessary, clearly frightening the person in his arms. He somehow managed to dispose of his burden behind them on the stairs as he drew the other person closer.
“My Lord!!” They sounded more frantic.
Keith ignored them, as he took in the scent of their skin, to ground himself and reassure him that they were real. They thrashed in his hold, but Keith kept his steady grip, so desperate not to let them flee. He would not let them escape. An Adams apple boobed near his vision. The feel of their body against Keith was just right. The feel of their chest against his own, as he felt their thundering heart against his own. The curve of their spine as he let his hands fold around them, pulling them closer. They felt firmer, not as soft as they usually did. Keith credited their outfit, but he had to admit he might prefer this in favour of skirts and lace.
“I am so glad you are safe.” Keith said, feeling his person go slack in his arms. He drew back to look at the other face. Their eyes were blown wide. They shivered in Keith's arms, unreadable feelings flashing over their features. He was an undeniable male this way, in a way he had been an undeniable female in their last encounter. Keith sighed and dragged them back into another hug until the shivers subdued. The familiarity was undeniable.
“Please.” Keith pleaded. “You are Katherine, are you not.? My Katherine.” He emphasised.
“No I am not.”
Keith felt like he had been slapped, so he pulled away to inspect the other person once more.
“I am her twin, my Lord.” They stammered. “I do not believe we have been introduced.”
There was a weariness to his voice, like he was not so certain about his own words.
“You are..” Keith heaved. “Mr. McClain.”
“Yes my Lord.” But the last statement ran over Keith's skin and gave him goosebumps. He felt his blood boil with something else entirely. The possibility, the implication of thoughts long past, reassurances of his own heart over his body. A man. A man that made his heart leap and his thoughts clouded with desire. Looking like an exact replica of his sister.
“You must have mistaken me for my sister. It happens far more often than you would believe.”
The anger found its way back once more and he strengthened his grip.
“I just met your sister.!!” He spat, making the other man flinch. “And I do not know her. I barely recognize her, but you….!!” Mr. McClain leaned back not to be overwhelmed and have his ears fly off, but Keith held him tight by his shoulders.
“You, I know. My heart knows you. Even if you went by your sister's name, I recognize you!! Your smile, your eyes, your sulking when I best you in chess. The triumphant curve of your lips when you best me in horse racing. I know you Lance McClain.”
The words sounded more brash than he had meant them to be. He had never been profound at expressing the softer side of himself, even now as he bared his heart for the man he loved.
The man looked positively petrified as he tried to break Keith’s hold of him, avoiding to look him into his eyes.
“Now!!” Keith's grip turned painful and his knuckles white. “Tell me I am wrong!!” 
Then his own voice broke. “Tell me I am wrong. Tell me I am so stressed that I do not recognize the woman I fell in love with. Who stole my heart with outrageous words and powerful emotions. Tell me I am in the wrong.“
Keith let his head rest on the man's chest, his fists stuck in clenching the lapels of the cheap hideous jacket, unable to let the fabric go, because then surely he would tumble to the ground. The man was heaving his own breath under his hands, and it took a moment to recognize that the man was crying. Keith’s eyes wandered down the man’s form as something shifted in his peripheral vision. His gaze halted at the man's fist as it unclenched, revealing his mother’s bracelet. The band that had never left his fiance wrist, now clutched in the grasp of this man that supposedly was her brother.
“I am terribly sorry Keith.” The man uttered. Keith reacted with haste to look back up into the man's eyes. “I am so terribly sorry to have deceived you and put you through all this.”
The man's eyes were welling up filling his blue orbs with water. Keith felt his own eyes feel wet.
“I tried to tell you. But you told me not to. Told me to wait until after the wedding. So I intended to keep my promise. But you make it so much harder to do so.” He hiccupped the words.
Keith had heard enough, as he surged forward, ramming his mouth against the man. The man turned soft in his grasp the moment his lips met his. Like he had held his breath for this. Like he had desired him. Still possibly did. Ached for him like Keith did for him. The taste and feeling all familiar, leaving Keith heave for more. This was his person. His Katherine, Lance, whatever the man would give him, Keith would never let him go.
He slipped back to look at him. Really look at him.
“Hello Katherine. My Katherine.” He ran the back of his hand over the man’s cheek, revering in the way he looked at Keith, blushed at his touch. “What’s your name my dear? Your true name?” Keith put every bit of love into the title and it thrilled him to see the man's response. 
“Lance. Lancelot Jonathan Robert Charles McClain.” The man said breathlessly.
Keith kissed him again. 

If Katherine had been a perfect blessing, then Lance McClain was a wandering miracle.

Chapter Text

Lance told him everything. About all that has passed between them from the very beginning back last summer, when Keith first entered back into the McClain’s social circle. He told of Katherine and her sickness. About the money and the inheritance they needed to help her. He told him of their financial grievings passed down from his grandfather and later his siblings. How he had been forced back from school to help with his mama’ grand scheme. 
How he had been the imposter from the start, trying as the best of his abilities to take the blame from his sister. How he had found the Lord arrogant, unpleasant and proud. How the jewelry had only enforced Lance’s opinion of him, as he thought Keith was trying to buy his family's good graces.
“I was never meant to be assumed as such.” Keith interrupted him as they sat down on the steps. 
“I was the only one taking that stand. I can assure you my mother was delighted at the prospect.” Lance confessed.
“My brother…” Keith's eyes grew dark and distant for a moment. ”Shiro was having one of his dark periods, and I needed to be available for him. That and splitting my time with the business, The Holts having one of their brilliant ideas..” His voice was pleasant in Lance’s ears, not at all arrogant or patronising.
“Truthfully I did not feel I had the time to babysit a spoiled girl, who kept asking for larger jewelry.”
Lance snorted and it felt like the most natural sound, and Keith could not help to grin at him.
He told Keith of his trouble playing the role that was assigned to him, even more when every moment spent with the Lord stole away more and more of his heart as they grew close. Keith somehow seemed pleased at that confession, even if Lance felt embarrassed by the admission.  
“You must have felt disgusted when you realised the truth. Harbouring romantic feelings towards a man.” 
Keith's response was to kiss him again. Hard this time, forcing his tongue into his mouth, leaving Lance staggered and heaving for breath.
“Never for you my dear.” 
Lance felt his cheeks heat up like all the time before when this man looked upon him with these eyes. Lance tried to remain collected, but the burning sensation of regret and desperation overcame him.
“How can you say that, when you know that I am a man?”
Keith looked at him with pity, and the mere thought of it made Lance angry. This man was many things but he was not allowed to pity him. Lance opened his mouth to protest, but Keith reached out and took his hand, settingling his blooming anger instantly.
“I always knew that I would never get something as wonderful as a love marriage. The thought was inconceivable to me. I always had one reluctance towards marrying ‘Katherine’, no matter how much she charmed me and the prospect of a respectable successful marriage.” Keith leaned back on his hands. “That was that she was female. My preferences have always laid elsewhere. I knew that very early on, before the engagement was even found out.”
Lance felt his ears go red, the words ridiculous and unbelievable.
“Oh.” He said, staring into the garden before him. ”I do not know how to respond to that, as I seem to have a certain preference for well…” He cleared his throat. “You.” He admitted. 
They sat a moment looking into the barren garden, where the vegetation had just seemed to return. Letting the truth and admissions stretch out between them. 

Lance continued his tale. About his worries about living at Marmora, but also all the joys it gave him at the end. How grateful he was for Hunk and Shay, who were his only companions who knew his troubles during those months. About the glee and excitement he had felt by being invited and accepted by Keith's family and staff. How it had felt to fight Keith with a blade to feel like himself for just one moment. How Keith made it possible for Lance to let himself be for even the smallest amount of time. He confessed to Keith that his sister did not in fact, race horses, went hunting and dueled. She did truly yes, but just not in the same fashion and with so much exuberance as Lance.
“I had a feeling she was too perfect to exist, to play into that particular part of my tastes.” Keith mumbled, and Lance felt the tips of his ears grow hot. 
“You look most exquisite when you shoot.” Keith added not even looking at Lance, who wanted the stones to swallow him up and hide his embarrassment.

Lance explained their encounter with Allura and the complicated feelings that were involved in such a reunion.
“So you did hold affections for Lotor!” Keith's cry was unexpected and most confusing.
“No, for Allura.” Lance said carefully.
“Then who had feelings for Lotor?”
“Katherine..”
“But Lotor…”
“I despise Lotor….” Lance said.
“That is all the information I require, please continue.” Lance groaned disgruntled, but then a sudden idea came to mind.
“My Lord, were you perhaps jealous.” Keith promptly ignored him, even when Lance became more insistent. “My Lord!!”
“Please tell me more about the letters!!” Keith insisted and Lance carried on.

He told Keith about the letters. About his realisation of the books, when working in the Lord’s office. His worries about the financial books at home and his fear that now they do not know how to pay for Katherine’s treatment should she have a setback. They both sat still as statues as Lance’s tale came to an end.
“So your family decided it was better to parade you around in your sister's garments, than ask for a loan.” Keith concluded, each word uttered slowly and calculatingly.
“You make it sound so simple.” Lance huffed.
“It is very….elaborate.” Keith admitted, eyes looked at nothing in front of him.
“To say the least.”
“So… “
“So….”
“Now you know.. What do you intend to do next?” Lance turned slowly to look at the Lord. Keith barely moved for a second then turned to look at Lance. He looked the younger man up and down for a moment, and Lance felt as if all his actions got weighted and judged inside the Lord's mind. Now he held all the cards, all the truths against Lance and his family and he could if he wished it so, ruin Lance and his family.
Keith took Lance's hand and kissed it. His eyes portraying an array of emotions Lance could not understand the meaning of. The man’s face became a determined mask, and Lance felt lost. 
“Wait here.” Keith told him and staggered up the stairs inside. 
Lance did not stay in his place. As followed after the man up the stairs, through the kitchen, inside the house and up to Katherine’s door. 

“Everybody out!!” Keith commanded. “I would like to have a word with my fiance.” Lance’s family that clearly were having a sort of emergency meeting, all scattered like mice. Even mama did not dare to defy the thunderous look in the Lord's eyes. Katherine looked pale as Keith closed the door behind them.
“What have you done?!” His mama teared up.
Lance hushed her as he fought for the space at the keyhole to pear inside. Luis won and pushed Lance aside, so he had to place his ear on the door instead, trying to decipher the hushed conversation inside.
After minutes of not deciphering anything Lance gave up the endeavour and went down to the kitchen in his hunt for tea. And perhaps something stronger.
Veronica joining shortly after with Lizzy, Allura and Nancy. After almost an hour, the Lord left the house in a rush. Jumped on his horse and set off without a word of reassurance or farewell. 
Then footsteps on the stairs as Katherine made her way down stairs, with their mama raging after her. Apparently Kat had not spoken a word of what had transpired behind the closed door.
Lance stood ready to comfort her, or receive her anger depending on the outcome. Instead she threw her arms around him and held him tight.
“Thank you!” She cried, silent sobs raging through her body.
“What is this now!!” Their mama cried out. “What have you done now you awful boy!!”
But Katherine turned away from her brother with an icy look to stare down at their mama.
“My brother has just saved my marriage. He met the lord in the gardens, who was quite confused and troubled about not recognizing his own fiance, and my dear brother convinced him of his nerves and urged him to come back and take a second look at me. When he saw me once more, he was quite relieved. He was simply too put under by all the nerves and excitement.“ Katherine said. “Which is why we must hurry.“
She extracted herself from Lance and marched around the kitchen to the door.
“The lord is already making his way to the church. We are already delayed, but we must make haste if we should still have a ceremony today.“ Her family was quite stunned by the statement. Allura grapped Lance’s hand under the table in relief.
“So make haste!!!” Yelled Katherine with a strength Lance had never heard from her before. “It is my wedding day, I can not be more late. Onward onward!!” She clapped her hands and the kitchen surged into hurried motion.
Her outbreak propelled her family on, as they went to grab coats gloves, flowers and gifts.
And on their way out, Katherine grabbed Lance’s arm.
“Please hold on to me or I fear I may faint.”
“Not on my watch.” He reassured her. “Let us get you married.”

Lance dapped only slightly at his eyes as he watched his twin marry the man of her dreams. His mama on the other hand, held no emotions back, and let her tears run free down her cheeks. Either with elation or relief, Lance could not determine. He stayed in line, hid behind his siblings, seated next to Allura and Lotor behind his mama, Veronica and Luis and his wife. His nieces and nephews had remained at home. Lotor looked displeased at being at the event and in Lance’s presence, but one look from his wife and he melted on the spot. He seemed softer somehow, Allura being a good influence on his tight attitude and cold demeanour. He even smiled now. Genuinely smiled. The Kogane’s looked a bit puzzled by the delay, but happy with the proceedings after the fact. The church had been filled out by the community and nosy neighbours that wanted a glimpse of the happy couple. And those who had not fit in the church. Well they most certainly would fit at the reception at Marmora estate. 

The vicar said the last prayer, and his sister kissed her new husband. It was a quick soft peak, but it was tender all the same. Katherine looked at the Lord like he held the stars and Keith looked at Katherine like she had given him everything he ever wanted. The ensemble broke out into cheers and Lord Kogane and Lady Kogane left the church.
Something settled in Lance's stomach. It was not quite contentment but something very close to. Keith had done the honourable thing and married his sister, who he had been promised to. He may hold regards to Lance, but that faded in comparison to Katherine. Perfect beautiful Katherine, that would bear him children and make the perfect Lady Kogane of Marmora. It was more than Lance would ever have hoped for.
The reception afterwards was a blur to Lance. He did not quite recall how he came about from place to place. The image of the Lord kissing his new bride seemed to have burned itself on the inside of Lance’s eyelids. The sight of them huddled together at the table, feeding each other cake, and whispering into each other's ears were the most wondrous and the most horrendous image Lance had seen. Lance got lost in the throng of well wishers and hid away in an alcove with a glass of wine trying to become a master of the art of invisibility. Shay had sent him a few worried looks from Katherine's side, but no one else seemed to have taken notice of him. All eyes were directed at the happy couple. Lance had not seen a hit of Hunk or any of the Holts as their presence were not appropriate for their stations at these type events. Still he wished he could hide away in the kitchen and drown his sorrows in ale and liquor, crying on his best friend's shoulder. He decided against it in the end, deciding that it was not worth the headache the next day, as he surely would be expected to be available. But one could dream. 

His mama looked radiant as she toasted to her daughter and her new husband. The event seemed to have taken years of her complexion and she had never seemed happier. Somehow it did not give Lance any sort of comfort. He left before the rest of his family, none taking notice of his absence or trying to stop him taking his leave. Only Kolivan that met him at the door with his jacket sent him an odd look that pierced through him, and Lance was certain that he knew. Had always known most certainly. Lance shook the feeling off and returned home in a borrowed carriage.
He ended up in his room, greeting Nancy on the way, who had opened a bottle of wine in celebration after she had put the children away for the night. She had sent him another odd look, but Lance did not require her judgement as well. Her and his mother were thick as thieves.
He stood in front of his mirror and looked at his reflection. He looked almost like himself once more. Almost. The glint of the emerald still on his wrist, held the truth of what had transpired through all these months. Lance looked at the piece briefly, before he unclipped the lock and slipped it off his wrist. He secured it in its box and put it in his drawer, which he closed with too much force, making the dresser rattle. Lance stared at it for only a moment as he made up his mind.
While his family was out Lance made his way through his fathers old office and the books, slowly piecing together the missing pieces which his mama hid so carefully away.

Chapter Text

Lance waited an enduring month before he made his move against his mother. A month where Katherine lived her joyous life in marital bliss away from her nagging family. A month in security. While most of their family had breathed a sigh of relief now the whole escapade was over, Lance still kept his ears and eyes open, waiting for something to occur and disrupt the gentle peace. Keith may yet go back on his word and still take some sort of revenge on the family that deceived him, if Katherine did not turn out to be a favourable wife. Lance had a hard time imagining the Lord taking such gruesome measures, but one could never know for certain. Lance had known his mama for his whole life, but it had still not softened the blow of her betrayal against him. He only reigned in his fear the tiniest bit, when his mama came storming into the breakfast hall announcing that Katherine’s first allowance had been deposited into a bank account. What worried Lance was how fast his mama would make the money disappear from Katherine’s said account, given and managed by her husband. 

His mama tried to call on Marmora so often as she might as well have lived there. But after the first week had been refused entrance, on the reason to let the young couple be themselves. Mama had been furious, being denied the opportunity to visit her own flesh and blood in their spacious, expensive, large home. The audacity. 
Lance’s secret smile had only grown, each time his mama returned fuming having been denied entrance. The Lord and Lady were out. The Lord and Lady had other visitors and could not be disturped at the moment. The Lord had important business and did not allow visitors. Mrs. Krolia was feeling ill and they did not want their callers to catch whatever she had taken ill with. The reasons went on and on, but Lance was beyond thrilled that Katherine, or perhaps Keith, was taking a stand against Lance’ overbearing and controlling mama. All for the better if one should confer with him. That was until his mama sought to restore order in her own household.
Mrs. McClain had declared some sort of lock down of the McClain estate as a result of such disrespect from her youngest daughter. Keeping her family nearby for some sort of unfathomable reason, denying them requests to go to the village or to go calling on their neighbours. Who in turn did not come to call at the McClain’s. Such behaviour from mama was most concerning, as she always in the past put socialising and their reputation over that of her personal needs. Still no one was to go on errands, or go to congratulate Mr. Collins on his newest grandchild. Better to stay at home and wait for visitors to come to them.

Letters were now a new form of battle ground between Lance and his mama. Lance had looked her directly in the eyes as she tore up a letter addressed to him from Allura and threw it in the fire. The more Katherine refused to see her mama, the more agitated she became with Lance. And Lance was utterly finished with sitting down and taking the abuse. He had made a habit to sneak out and wait for the post, before the rest of the house rose, and securing his own correspondence before letting the letters pass to the butler. The butler remained impartial and just ignored his mistress and his young master's feud. That way Lance secured his glimpse into his acquaintance's life. Allura was not allowed back into the McClain estate when she announced she was expecting her first child as mama’s envy grew too great to bear even the sight of the woman. So letters were the only way she and Lance could retain any form of relation.
The best letter Lance received in his dreadful confinement was from Hunk and Shay announcing they too were expecting their first child. He carefully hid that letter from mama, and promptly defied mama's orders and left the house to go into the city, where he bought a basket filling it up with gifts for the expecting mother and the future babe, which he then had delivered to Marmora for the Garrets. After such atrocity, his mama changed the locks on the house doors, so Lance could not escape without her knowledge. Lance had barely held it together as the locks were changed to the families exasperated confusion. Unknown to his mama, Lance had never used the door, but had forgone them entirely. He would proceed to just use his window and climb down the back of the house. This was a path he had always kept hidden from his mama, and he saw to it remained so, should the woman get the idea to put bars upon his window to keep him confined.
There was still a matter that glared all the members of the family directly in the eyes like a persistent pestilence. There had been no word from Katherine. Not a letter or invitation, since their mama had put the house in solitary.
No letters from Katherine, or any from Marmora at all.
Lance hoped that the Lord and Lady were content and happy, and with that thought in mind he took his final stance. Against his mama, against his family and this bloody house, that was more now prison than home. His whole family was suffering under their mama’s megalomania. And no one seems to be of any sort of mind to take action off it. Only Lance seemed to be the only sensible of the whole bunch of them.
He only made his intentions clear after he had secured his old lodging near his university and had shipped off most of his belongings to them and in the process discovered only more horrible news. 
His mama had undone his lease behind his back, and taken the funds Lance sent to the place and put it into her own pocket. She had written to the university and informed them that Lance would not return to his studies, too preoccupied with helping the family and his oldest brother. His professors had been perplexed to receive news from Lance that he was returning, and so he had to fight tooth and nail to get his scholarship and old job back. He managed to sneak out once more, if only briefly, to meet up with Mr. Alfor through Allura and get him to explain his situation to his school and rectify the mistake on his behalf. He also asked that the man looked into some other business very discreetly. The man had taught at the school and his name still held some value there.

Lance had been enraged and depleted by the experience. What had been his mama’s plan. To keep him trapped at home, while she drained his swindling funds, only to send him off to earn money, with a degree he did not process to completion. He was so beside himself that even Luis took notice of his mood. He inquired about it even, and Lance promised to reveal all in due time once he got his matters settled. Lance spent his time waiting in the house, confiding in Veronica, who in turn confided in him her plan to return to her practice. Their mama had somehow gotten it into her mind that Veronica was the invalid spinster, that needed her mother's guidance and company, and could not live on her own. They tried to pull Luis into their conversation, but he was once more sent off to earn the family's keep, while his wife remained in the house, under mama’s watch. She was more than happy to participate in Veronica and Lance proceedings, when mama insinuated Lizzy was an ill fit parent, and that she instead should take over the children's education to make sure they turned out to be proper additions to society. Lizzy had been livid and removed herself and her children from the house the next morning, taking residence at a friend's house for a few days. No one told Luis, until he came home and found his family missing.
While the siblings agreed that things were sprawling out of control, their mama was under the understanding that everything was grand, and in perfect order. 

The morning Lance received the letter containing confirmations that his belongings had been received and put in order at school, he confronted the family at the breakfast table.

“Why are we still living here?” Lance cried, throwing down his napkin and cutlery after a particular arrogant comment from mama. 
“No! Why are you still living here?!!” He pointed at their mother at the head of the table, who blinked perplexed at Lance's sudden outburst, fork half lifted to her mouth.
“Why are you demanding money, so you can stay here, when it is actually Luis' house, and he could kick all of us out the door if he wished so.”
Luis looked momentarily distraught and looked to Lizzy, who primly continued to eat her eggs, scowling down at them. She had only recently been persuaded by her husband to return to the breakfast table. Their mama rose from her seat, standing tall and intimidating, which had been impressive had she not been in a robe and sleeping bonnet. 
“Your brother would never. This is our home!!” The table's occupants looked back and forth between mother and son. Lance rose too.
“Why do you still demand so much money from us?!” He shouted. “We cleared the debt!” The table froze. Luis' mouth fell open, his fork clunking to the table as he turned to their mama. Veronica's eyes grew round as the information settled in her brain. Then her eyes grew dark, and her face soured. Even Lizzy looked up.
“What are you..?” Their mama tried not to show, but Lance could see the doubt in her eyes.
“I saw the registers. The debt has been paid.” 
Something crashed next to Lance, and Luis seemed to collapse in his chair. Lizzy sprung across the table to help him. He looked relieved. Like the world's burdens suddenly were no longer on his shoulders. Lance would be certain he could have been crying had not Lizzy made him sit up, and rubbed his shoulder to keep him lifted and part of the narrative. 
“Why do you still require so much spending? Where is the money to keep the estate afloat mama?” The table quieted.  
“Your yearly income should still be able to keep you afloat. Then why are you keeping us here? Trapped with you, with no money to support us all in this house that is falling apart. You are keeping us in this state!”

“You watch your mouth.” Lance's mother appeared to have found her voice once more, but Lance's voice grew louder than his mother’s.
“If Ronnie moved out, got her own house, she could pay for her own practice, easily. But then you would miss an income to pay for your Sommelier and seamstress. Why do Katherine keep getting new dresses she will never wear, while I barely have enough for a decent evening suit?!“ Luis blinked as this was new information to him.
“You are spending all the money, saying it is for her but really it is for you.” Lance pointed out, his voice grew a little shriek, with finally relieving information that had eaten him up for months. “But I have news for you mama. I will not participate anymore. You may have stolen most of my savings through your little scheme by going behind my back with the school, but not anymore. Katherine is out of the house. You do not have that excuse anymore. I am moving out, and whatever profession I pursue I will use to insure my life, not you, not Katherine, not this family and certainly not this house!” 
“You ungrateful awful boy!” Mrs. McClain cried out, slamming her hands down on the table making the porcelain and silver rattle.
“How can you do that to your own sister? Your sister needs that income.”
Lance was tired of the lie. Tired of the old excuse. Tired of getting his love for his sister and his own guilt used against him.  
“She does not even live here anymore. Or have you forgotten?” Lance laughed, as their mother turned an obscene colour of purple. “She is married, she has her own money, her own income.”
“Money that I am entitled to.” Mrs. McClain howled, her long sleeves dashing about. “I am the matriarch in this family. That money is mine.” Lance huffed and gestured to his brother at the table.
“But you are not anymore. Luis is the head of this family.” Luis made eyes that said to leave him out of this, but Lizzy’s eyes were thunderous.  
“Mama!!” Lance said, quieter and more controlled his time. “Katherine married a Lord. She is higher status than you. She does not owe you anything.”
Mrs. McClain pointed an accusing finger around the table, making each of her children involuntary flitch. 
“I gave birth to all of you. You all owe me your very existence. Therefore you have to make up for it in coin!”

Lance wanted to laugh at the absurdity. Veronica and Luis looked equally astonished.
“I lived half a year as someone else, just so you could line your purse filling. I would say my debt is paid. I am leaving.” 
Lance turned around from the table. Chairs shrieked against the floor and the rest of the table's occupants rose. 
“Lance!! Get back here you ungrateful…” Lance drowned out his mothers cries and turned to his brother who looked at him with, dare Lance say it, respect. 
“You should check the books if you do not believe me. But I did the math's thrice and I am painfully certain I am not in the wrong. I even had Mr. Alfor check it over, and enquire about the solicitors and the debt collectors.” He handed over a piece of paper to him with the information. 
Luis gave Lance’s shoulder one squeeze before he and his wife ran up the stairs to find the needed documents. He could hear Veronica yelling at their mother. Their fight had been culminating for years. They never had seen eye to eye, but Veronica had always been the bigger person and sided with mama for the sake of the family and for peace. Lance locked eyes with Nancy, who was pale, but stern and Cook who peaked out from the Kitchen. Lance gave a courteous nod to the butler as he was handed his travel case, but nothing more.
Money may be able to buy loyalty, but Lance was sure that even those three would not be able to hold their tongues for ever, and briefly wondered how fast the village would get a sniff of the drama unfolding within the walls of the house. Lance put on his hat, took his belongings and left the house.

Chapter Text

The return to his previous lodgings and routine was both familiar and entirely new. Due to the time he spent away, most of his fellow classmates had graduated previously, and Lance now had to work hard to earn the respect of his new peers. The library welcomed him back, helping give him a familiar safe space, when his classes and professors were trying to strangulate him with work and tasks. He had the pleasure of getting visitors and letters of correspondence for once. He and Hunk corresponded frequently about his work with the Holts and in the kitchen, carefully avoiding the obvious topics of the Lord and Lady of the house. Allura also sent her regards and even came to visit Lance at school when she was in town. He looked radiant and Lance got to place his hands on her inflated belly to feel the life growing within her. She had also been calling at Marmora, though she did not dive further into the subject, instead congratulating Lance on his accomplishments at school.
He wrote to his siblings regularly to hear how things are progressing at home. And even if Lance had not communicated with his siblings the news and gossip had reached the city by now. 

Veronica had moved back into an apartment over her practice and started taking patients again, gaining her own little clientele. She spent most of her time receiving patients, and making house calls in her local area. She was so thinly spread that she took on a nurse, and a secretary to manage all the people who came through her door. She seemed pleased to finally be able to use her hard earned education and put her brilliant head to use. Lance thought her perhaps content, with having new acquaintances, clients, patients and friends. Far cry from the social life their mama had envisioned, but Veronica was happy.
The McClain Estate was up for rent. Luis had moved back to the city, and Lance took great pleasure in visiting his niece and nephew and gossiping about the ladies, that Lizzy did not particularly care for. She had never been right for a country life. She was too much of a busy bod, always needing something to keep her entertained, a new project to keep her mind and hands occupied. Sitting at home waiting for visitors was never her style. It gave Lance an opportunity to reconvene with Luis as they went over the expenses from the old house, tracking back the last missing leads so Luis could buy their current resistance and lent out the McClain estate to whom better could afford to keep it. Mrs. McClain had not been pleased, and thrown her fury on her oldest for kicking her out of her home, leaving her penniless. Luis did not see it as such, as he still sent a decent living allowance, and paid for the small house she now lived in. He paid for a cook and a maid, so he did not feel the need to supply her further. The new house was near Veronica, who still came to visit and check on her when her schedule allowed her, but their mama still found the whole affair humiliating and degrading. Lance was just amazed by the spine his brother had suddenly grown. He also seemed more at ease when Lance saw him playing with his kids, kissing his wife on the cheek and talking passionately about his work. Lance could guess that he had felt just as burdened as the rest of them through this ordeal. It was wonderful to have his brother back, instead of the cold overhead of the family, who had the word of his shoulders.
To everyone’s surprise Marco left the military almost as soon as the house stood empty. He eloped with an unknown girl and moved to the other side of the country to start his life over. Luis congratulated him and sent him enough funds to help them start their life, but still enough it forced Marco to keep his own affairs in order.
Mama would not recognize any mention of the matter and still insisted when asked that Marco was in the military.
Lance still wrote to his brother congratulating him and sent a gift basket similar to the one he sent the Garret’s as he would without a doubt soon have a new niece or nephew. 

The only one of his siblings he had not heard from was his sister. Which was why it came as quite a shock when he returned from classes one day to see her standing in his room at the dormitory.
He grabbed the doorframe in fright, gripping his poor heart and let out an unholy shriek.
“Good gracious Kat, you almost gave me a stroke.”
She merely huffed at his discomfort. “Oh please!! You would have survived.” 
She looked lovely. Wearing a large green hat and a matching fine coat. She walked around the room inspecting the area as she pulled off her fine leather gloves. Purple shone from her ears, and peaked forth from under her skirt on her shoes as she walked. Lance was so relieved he had had the epiphany to tidy up before he left that morning, or Katherine would have sullied her expensive shoes on Lance's dirty laundry, or tripped over scattered books and paper. She ran a finger across his dresser and inspected it from dust. Wrinkled her nose and then moved on.  She looked…. Healthy. Lance could barely believe his eyes. Her cheeks were fuller, she looked heavier in the most positive manner, like she was eating plenty, and her hair shone with life.
“Are you quite right?” He asked, still stuck in the doorway to his room.
“Perfectly fine.” She tittered floating about the room.
“Are you in any condition to travel so far? Should you not be resting? Here let me get you a seat.“ Lance tried to take action, but his sister waved him off.
“No need.”
“But…”
“Why have you not written to me?” She interrupted him, pinning him in place with her accusing stare and sharp tongue, so terrifyingly similar to their mama. Lance kept opening and closing his mouth, unable to find words.
“Why have you not come calling at my new house? Or wrote me even a single letter? I had to find out you all moved away through the grapevine.”
Lance took a step into his room and put his books down.
“We assumed when you insisted on keeping mama out, the same was guaranteed for the rest of us.“
His prim and proper sister, harrumphed loudly.
“Preposterous, of course not. Mama is mama, but you!! All of you. I thought you knew better.” Lance inspected her silhouette. She was possibly glowing. Perhaps a bit too much for Lance’s taste.
“Are you…..” He looked her up and down, and she rolled her eyes at him and sat down at his only chair anyway, leaning on the armrest in a lazy fashion, tilting her foot quickly up and down in an irritated manner. 
“I am not with child if that is what you presumed. But I guess with everyone spitting out babies that at this point I am not so surprised you thought I would be next.“ She leaned back in her seat. “Shay is growing rounder by the minute, Allura is unbearable, Marco even more so, and Lizzy has this secret look about her I only saw her have once before.“
Lance cursed, never minding he was in the presence of a lady. “I knew she looked far too happy for a reason.“
Kat rose and harrumphed once more and staked towards him.
“But what of you? Our siblings may be occupied, but are you really too busy for me!”
“I had school….” Lance tried to explain himself, but the look in Kat’s eyes told him that his explanation was not satisfactory. He sighed and rubbed the side of his neck absentmindedly. 
“I thought I would make matters more complicated.”
The look in her eyes changed. They became round and soft instead of the steely cold they had once been.
“How could you do so?” She said with so much love it hurt. “You will always be my brother and I will always want to see you.” Lance gave her a pitiful smile, but she beamed at him and opened her arms.
“Now come here and give your sister a hug.” He went into her embrace, taking in the familiar soothing smell and feeling of her, that patted down his frazzled nerves in a way only her caring presence could. He took a step back and held her at arm's length.
“You look well. Really well. “
“You mean I do not look ill.” He grinned.
“Possibly.” He nodded and they walked arm in arm back to sit down on his bed.
“Yes… Turns out a change of scenery really did do wonders. I have never felt this good in years.“ Lance could barely believe her. She nodded fondly at his curious expression.
“Ronnie still comes to check upon me, and I still take her hideous tonics, but I am quite well in fact. Still sometimes if I overtax myself too much, I sleep for days, but when I wake up I feel right as rain once more. I never had this much energy before. I still have times… but all in all I feel… brilliant. I mean sometime I cough but---”
“No blood?” Lance said, and can not help the hope that blends into his tone.
“No blood.” She confirmed with a smile.
“That is indeed wonderful news.“ Lance can barely conceal his happiness and his sister sits taller on the bed.
“It is, is it not?” Lance let out a poorly controlled gasp of laughter and gave his sister’s hand a grateful pat.
“Marriage has really done wonders for you.“
Katherine’s smile got more forced as something unfamiliar flickered across her eyes. Lance’s blood ran cold.
“Kat..”
“I have something for you.” She said instead of acknowledging Lance’s worry. “It took us quite some time to locate it after the Lord misplaced it, but I have it now. “ She went to the bed where she found a package which he handed over to him. “And this. Read them after I have left.” She found another pristine looking letter.
Lance looked at it baffled as she took a turn about the room enquiring about his studies. Lance put the letters and package away for later and answered her.
“Have you found a suitable position once you finished your studies?”
“No, not yet.” He scoffed.
“Splendid.” Lance not agree with that particular comment, when his sister held out an envelope stamped with the official seal of Marmora.
“Lord Kogane is looking to hire a new secretary and the applicants have been absurd. No one seems to be suitable for the task.“
Lance looked the official letter over, back and forth.
“We hoped that you may take the job.” Katherine added after a moment of silence.
Lance stiffened. “I….”
“Please. Please will you move back home with me. To Marmora. You have no idea what it will mean to me. To us. You are quite missed, I can reassure you.” Lance blinked, puzzled by the notion. 
“I will consider it.“ He said carefully, not trusting his voice to carry.
“Thank you.“ Katherine breathed a sigh of relief. “Now I am off to see our dear brother and scare him in his office, like I did for you. But I do hope I see you at dinner tonight at Lizzie's hmmn.“ It was an order, not a question. She was quite good at those, Lance noted.
“I will see you later then. Tataa!!”

After she left, Lance sat alone trying to reassure himself that he was not stuck in some kind of delirious dream. His sister was fine. His sister was happy. And the Lord apparently did not despise him. He got his Katherine, and now he would allow Lance’s presence into his life once more. It barely made any sense in Lance’s head. He looked around his now empty room. There was no trace of his guest, beside the letter, the package and the proposal. After a moment to gather himself, Lance shook his head and grabbed his letter opener. Might as well read them. 

Lance read the business proposal first. It was more comprehensible than the grueling letter and package. Business was always more easily done. He opened the envelope, pulling at the purple wax seal, and shook the letter out to read its contents. Beside the letter was also an attached contract which he placed on the bed beside him.
The envelope stayed in his other hand, and crumpled as Lance read the proposal.

Mr. McClain.

 
It will seem that I am quite in need of your assistance once more. You once proposed to me that I should hire a secretary, but none have yet to rise to the task in the same manner as yourself. 
Other applicants have been atrocious and do not compare to your exemplary hold of detail. Please review the proposed contract attached for the offer. If the terms are not acceptable to you, let us meet to discuss them, until they are to your satisfaction. 

We are in town for the next two fortnights, please send a letter to the Red lion for it to reach me.

Regards. 
Lord Kogane of Marmora.

Lance had to unclench his fist to release the ruined envelope, all while trying to control his conflicting emotions. Was this how the Lord saw him now? Was this what their relationship had come to? Mere acquaintances?
But was it not everything he could wish for? For matters to still remain civil between the two of them, and he still be able to see his sister. He looked down and grabbed the contract to look it over. The air got stuck in his lungs, as he choked. Surely there had been some kind of mistake. There had to be some sort of error. The terms were more than favourable, with lodgings, meals and times, but the pay… It must be missing a comma somewhere. This was a much too high an amount to use on a simple secretary. If this was how Lord Kogane spend money, Lance could understand his need for additional help with his affairs. The man was clearly mad. Lance had to fan himself with the paper to calm his racing heart, and his flustered cheeks.  
It took two turns about his small room before he dared to look at the reminding items. He opened the package with shaking fingers, pulling at the treads until it came undone. On top of the content was another letter. It was addressed to “My dear”.
Lance’s poor heart made an involuntary flutter as the endearment washed over him. 
  

My Dear Katherine.

You are one of the most infuriating human beings, I have ever had the unfortunate pleasure of making an acquaintance. But you are also the most wondrous and amazing person I have ever had the pleasure to meet as well.
You are unapologetic yourself, no matter what society, your mama or any other demand of you. You stay true to yourself, and I wish I had your courageous look on life to be as true as you are.
I have never dreamed that when I first met you how you would overwhelm me and consume me into your presence.
My expectancy for marriage was simple. A wife to look after my home. A mother to look after my children and a partner to look after me perhaps. I have never imagined love. Love was ridiculous and for children, and I thought I had more important things I needed in my life. But that was before you.
I had never expected you. Family is such a complex thing. You live and breathe for family, you bleed and fight for family. I just want so desperately to be part of yours. 
he ruin of my father, was the rise of my own stature. His death freed me from some expectations and gave me new ones. One of them was yourself. He freed my brother, giving me the opportunity to lift him up to the standing he was indebted to. Allowing me to be able to care for him and help him in matters, I had not been able to, had my father not held the esteem status that he did on his dead bed. He loved my mother, but he loved Krolia just as equivalent, and that ruined both of them. I wowed, I would never place such ruin on my future wife as my father had done on his. But that was before I knew my own feelings and my own preferences. I knew that I would ruin my life anyway, no matter what I did. I confess, I write it on paper, perhaps not the best approach hours before we are to be wedded, but I will not live a lie. Not to you. I could never do that to you my dear. Because that is what you are to me. My dear.
I have never felt attraction towards the female sex, before I saw you. You infuriated the moment I saw you. One, because I found you the most handsome creature to walk this earth, and I could not come to terms with the fact that I found you attractive. Despite your looks, you were kind and smart witted, which only seemed to vex me more. You were unreadable which was a new predicament to me. I live to read people, please their moods and act accordingly to get the best result and what I desire. Started early on with my papa, and tutors and then with teachers, colleagues and business partners. You were unreadable, unpredictable, volatile and dangerous. Because you read me. You laid your eyes on me and read me like an open book. I was both curious and frightened. And perhaps, if I may be so forward aroused as well.
You continue to surprise me. The look on Mr. Iverson’s face when you hit all the targets gives me great pleasure even today and I will carry the memory with me to my death bed. Marvellous. Stunning. You might as well have shot me in the heart. Never mind it was yours to begin with.
Then I found you to be a spoiled brat, that did not appreciate what she had been given, only to find out it was my error, not to get to learn you better and see what kind of a person you are. You are the most infuriating creature I have ever met. You make my temper boil, irked me and make me unbearable, but at the same time you want me to be better. When you push, I push back, but so do you, until we both tumble over in the dirt. It may not be proper but it is what I need. I know you will disagree with me, and yell at me when I deserve so, but also rail me in when needed. Because you understand. You make it right. Marriage is no longer just an obligation for me and I hope you share my frivolous sentiment.
I want you. Never mind your sex. I just need you in my life. It took me a hard time to admit and I do not admit this easily. Even now my hand shakes as I write this confession to you. 
You hold my heart, and I just wish to hold yours. Whatever comes next will be an adventure because we will face it together. May you knock me off my horse, beat me at chess and shooting, but you will never beat me with the blade.

Yours truly. 
Keith

PS- I look forward to marrying you in a couple of hours. Forgive me if I seem tired, I have not seemed to catch any sleep . 

Lance held his breath, barely able to comprehend the words written on the page. The traits The Lord valued, were not the ones one would associate with Katherine. Sweet, perfect delegate Katherine. No, they were all the traits that were uniquely Lance’s own. Times when he had let his mask slip, and the Lord, his Keith, had treasured every push and shove, every remark, every fight and every moment that was truly theirs. Perhaps some of the words the Lord spoke before his wedding, sitting next to a weeping Lance on the kitchen’s door step, truly still held their merits. But how could it? Lance reached down for the gift, and folded away the silk paper to reveal its contents. Inside on a bed of soft paper and satin lay a single small key, on a thin barely visible chain, clearly meant to be worn hidden. The craftsmanship was exquisite, dainty and very old. Lance had only seen one such keyhole, where such a small key would fit. The door in the room he had slept, while staying at Mamora. The door that led to….. 
Lance dropped the key and slammed the lid over with a brash crack. He heaved as he felt heat rush all the way up to his ears. His room felt stuffy, and Lance pulled at his collar, trying to remain dignified and not as some bothered youth, who had laid their eyes on a pair of bare ankles for the first time. What could this mean? Surely this had to be a mistake. This key was not his. It was Katherine’s rightful property. To give to Lance… it was as open an invite to the Lord’s bed, as had the Lord himself thrown him inside said room and stripped him bare.
Flustered, Lance smacked his cheeks repeatedly to make the haunting, alluring vision release him and his senses. Was this truly what he wanted? Was he willing to risk everything, his reputation, his stature, his heart and sanity to crawl back into the life of Lord Kogane once more. His treacherous heart thumped enthusiastically at the thought as to say, that he most certainly was.
Barely holding his own, Lance opened the last letter. Surely this letter would explain that the Lord no longer held such affections, after marriage to Lance's sister, but he still revered Lance to come work for him, as long as he held his tongue and returned the key as soon as possible. Surely. Lance had to stop this romanticised fever dream somehow. Anything else would be ludacris. 

My dear Lance. 

You still hold my heart, and I only hope I have not completely broken yours, making it  unsalvageable. You wished for one thing. The whole reason this affair got started, and that I was to care for your sister. I am intent on honouring your wishes and so I decided to marry her. But on some conditions. Do not think I do not recall you and your siblings scramble to hear of my and Katherine’s conversation inside her room on our wedding day. A day I still wish I could have given to you. I asked her to tell me the truth, and she revealed a similar story to the one you conveyed. In return I told her my own. How I had met and fallen for her brother and that she would never be able to replace you. But I also told her that I bear no ill wishes against her, but if she would give me her blessing to pursue you. She took the information strikingly well when taken into account the date and the severity. But I also told her I would honour your wish about keeping her secure. So we had a few civil words about how we could come with a solution that would be able to help both you and Katherine. You and her are very similar, and she was as same notion as you. She would much rather see you happy and loved, than herself. She and I struck a deal. I needed a wife and she needed a husband and independence.
So I married her as part of marriage of convenience, no matter how cynical it may seem to you, it is a choice we have both chosen in the rights of our own mind. It gave her an opportunity to come away from the house and from your mama, and she gave me her permission to court you with her blessing. Our marriage surprisingly works and we get along surprisingly well. Katherine has improved much of her health here at Marmora, and my family and the staff adore having a Lady to dote on. She is quite the social butterfly, arranging soirees, dinners and parties for her friends and our families acquaintances. Mrs. Allura is a frequent caller, if she herself has not already revealed so. She and Kat enjoy sitting together trying to pair up this season's bachelors and ladies. I fear there is a matchmaker in the works. Kat is quite adept at it and has already arranged two meetings that have led to proposals. One successful and one quite not, but she insisted that still a testimony to her skills. She gives me amity to run my business in peace away from the spotlight while she flourish in it, If I may say so.
Your sister is a firecracker and I have come to care for her very much, but she will never be able to give me the same joy as the sight of you. Please reassure me that you have not forsaken me entirely, and that you too, still long to see each other. I will like to court you, to have you back into my arms once more. I can not bare the thought of being without you.
What I wrote to you in the letter on my wedding day still holds true and the key is yours to keep. Please return to Marmora if you still hold any of the feelings last we spoke,
I beg you. Please come back to me my dear. 

Sincerely yours and only yours
Keith.

Chapter Text

Keith was having lunch with his wife, when the note arrived at the Red Lion. The innkeeper handed it over personally, bowing and scraping, how wonderful it was to host such esteemed guests as the Lord and Lady Kogane. Kat, the brilliant gem that she was, stirred the snooping innkeeper’s attention away from Keith, as he accepted the note with trembling hands. She sent him away with smiles and words of flattery that made him leave with even more scraping and bowing than when he entered.
“You enjoyed that far too much.” Keith added, making her smirk.
“Hush. Do not ruin my fun.” She tittered, and Keith could not help but smile himself.
“So…” She asked, cutting a piece of her fish, lifting the peace to her lips.
“It appears to be from your brother.” Keith said stiffly.
“See. I told you not to fret. He was sure to return.”
“But what if…” Keith felt his composure crumble by the possibility of a negative response.
“Oh, please. Wait making assumptions before you actually read its contents.” She looked overbearing at him. “Go on.”
Keith nodded and opened the note that had been briefly sealed with the seal from the university of Altea.
“You are to give him his own seal.” Kat remarked absentmindedly as she continued with her lunch. Keith nodded but his focus was on the letter.
“He is coming here….” He said after a moment. “Apparently he did not find the contests of the contract agreeable. “
Kat’s fork halted on the way to her mouth, her earring dangling with the abrupt movement.
“What!!” She jolted, reached over and yanked the paper out of Keith's hand.
“Do you think…perhaps…” He fidgeted as Kat read the note. “That he did not read the other letters.”
“But I told him to do so….” She protested loudly. ”Why would he…..” She sighed rejected. “Right then, you will just have to convince him with your words, since he will not read your confession.”
“My lady, you know me.” Keith heaved from across the table. “It is ME!! I have no idea how to express myself properly!!” He sounded distressed now, but Katherine just lifted an unimpressed eyebrow. The two of them had fairly easily gotten to know each other as friends and Kat seemed to know most of his mannerism by now. Her most frequent response to any of his moods was to sigh, and roll her eyes disparagingly. “It took my hours to formulate the last letter. I would not know what to say.”
“Just speak from your heart you fool!!” Kat whined. Luckily they were alone. Anybody else would have been scandalised by the way the Lord and Lady talked together when they were alone. Kat took a glass of her wine, while she muttered something about imbeciles and men.

Keith paced the floors of his room, anxiously awaiting the arrival of Lance McClain. Kat had left him to his own devices, after his nervous fidgeting made her aggravated, and she decided to go out. To shop or make a call on a friends, Keith could not recall at the present moment, his mind as muddled as it was. There was a knock on his door, that almost made Keith’s heart jump out of his chest. He hasted behind his writing desk, employing the image of grace, and professionalism, as he made a humming agreeable sound to let the innkeeper invite his guest in. The innkeeper bowed and announced Mr. McClain, then left again. Keith felt his chest tighten as Lance strode into the room with confidence, and put down the contract on the table between them. He flicked his coat and took a seat across from Keith, swinging his leg over the other knee, in a relaxed and at ease fashion. Keith’s eyes were focused on the man's wrist as he shook it out of its sleeve when he sat down. There was no trace of an emerald bracelet that previously never left his person. Keith swallowed the disappointment, and ruffled some papers trying to steel himself. Never mind how handsome and well put together the man looked, it just felt like another stab at Keith’s fragile state of mind. He nodded and Lance nodded back at him, with the same professional compliance.
“Did you get my letter?” Keith tried carefully. Lance was brutal in his response.
“I am here to discuss the terms of the contract.”
“Right.” Keith tried to calm the pain, but Lance’s words were like needles on his skin.
Keith was about to speak, before Lance raised a hand making him fall silent. There was a sound from outside, and they both looked towards the door, from where the noise had come. The door was pushed open, and the innkeeper backed backwards in with a fully loaded tray with wine, sausages, bread, butter, cheese and fried whitebait. He talked and talked over the men and he put down the tray and started loading up plates. Keith notes that his plate was slightly mode loaded than Lance’s. The man continued to blabber, until Lance sent Keith a look. Keith understood and cleared his throat, causing the man to hold his graveling. With some gentle but stern words the innkeeper finally left them alone, 

The two men said still in the silence, listening to the innkeeper's steps to insure that the man in fact had left them to their business.
Lance sighed loudly that was so reminisce of his sister, that Keith suddenly became very much aware how much the two of them were alike.
“Now that that is out of the way.“ He slid the contract over to Keith’s side of the desk, already signed to Keith’s surprise.
“I accept all the terms in the contract, but there are still matters to be discussed about the second part of the proposal.” Keith blinked dumbfounded at the paper.
“It was a proposal? Was it not?” Keith looked up from the paper and up to the man across him. Something played in Lance’s eyes, and in the tantalizing smirk. Hope, and something warm and ambiguous. Heat rushed to Keith's abdomen at the sight.
“If we are to come to an agreement, it is for life.“ Lance stated. “I demand nothing less. I will give my entire future for this choice.”
If in the case that there still were listening ears in the hallway, Lance's words were completely professional and nothing at miss. But for Keith the words were so much more, and they had lit a fire that he thought only moments before had been extinguished. He dared not look away as Lance with decedent hands opened his collar and pulled at his cravat, opening up a single button on his jacket, and then two on his shirt, revealing the sight of mouthwatering caramel flesh, that Keith had never seen before as it had always been covered in horrowring lace previously. Keith bit his lip at the sight, and clenched his fist as surely the nails would leave imprints behind. 
At the curve of Lance’s smooth skinned neck, was a chain. Barely noticeable until he fished it up from the confinement of his shirt. The key flickered in the sunlight from the window behind Keith, the metal freshly polished. Lance let the key drop and it swung from his neck, as he gently leaned in over the table, giving Keith an extensive look down the man’s shirt front with more skin of his pushed up cleavage. Keith looked up at Lance's eyes ,and the other man had the audacity to wink. Keith crumpled and had to look away, as a blush overtook his face, heart thumping in his ears.
“You are…” He managed to utter, gritting his teeth.” Utterly shameless.“
“Aww…” Lance cooed, folding his hands under his chin. “I thought it was one of the many qualities you appreciated about me.” He was rewarded by Keith’s low growling between his hand hiding his entire face.
“Relax.” Lanced leaned back, pulling the chain over his head and buttoning himself up to be more presentable, should one enter. “I just wanted to make sure our interests aligned. Considering….” He hesitated a moment, making Keith peek at him through his fingers. “All we have been through this past year.” His words were sincere, had it not been for the way he ended the statement, by winking obviously at Keith. Keith growled again, as his flush returned tenfold.
“I do have some conditions before we continue. I prefer to discuss them more when we return to Marmora, but I think it would be best if we were truly honest with each other from the start. This time.”
Keith immediately straightened with the seriousness of Lance's tone. “Of course.”
Lance nodded determined and lay out his terms.  
“My first term. I will not wear a dress and masquerade as my sister in any shape or form. “ There was more said in that first term, and they were both aware of it. Lance was not a replacement for his sister, and neither the other way around.
“Second. My job at the Marmora estate must be kept separate from any other business we may conduct together. If you are unhappy with the way I work, or if I behave in an otherwise unagreeable manner outside of work, you will leave those feelings at the door to the office. I will require a serious business relationship on that front, despite our relations. Including the relationship with your wife, my dear sister.” The way he said business, made Keith aware just how serious he was.
“Finally!!” He said with predicament, making Keith hold his breath. “I will not have you be ashamed of me. I will not be kept a secret. Regardless of how our ‘arrangement’ turns out. I will not hide away or be subdued.“ He suddenly faltered, and Keith bristled at the sight of the other man blushing as furiously as himself only moments past. 
“I mean,” Lance fidgeted. “I am not even sure how this… this agreement would even work. My sister is still the one carrying the ring, so I am not so .. I mean… I …..and you ....”
Keith reached over and grabbed Lance's hand, freezing it in its frequent movement.
“We will figure it out.” Keith said as he let his thumb drag over the back of Lance’s hand. “The two of us.”
“Yes..” Lance hiccupped.
“So you will come home then.”
“Yes.'' Lance swallowed visible. ”My Lord.”
The eyes that looked back up at Keith, promised endless times to explore what such arrangement entailed. Keith could not help the smile that crept over his face, as chills ran down his spine, and warmth in his stomach. He boldly reached over, and stood from his chair, quickly glancing around the room, listening for footsteps, before he leaned down, and brought Lance’s hand to his lips. He could hear Lance’s sharp intake of breath, as Keith’s lips touched his flesh, sending shivers through the other man.
“Of course, my dear.”

Chapter Text

“Surely there must have been a mistake.” Lance said, as he gawked unattractive at the carriage that had come to pick him up.
“Of course not sir.” Thace looked insulted at the insinuation.
“But …” Lance hiccupped. “I was going to travel by post. I did not need to further inconvenience the Lord. I even wrote to him.”
“We are very much aware.” Thace nodded. “That is why I was sent straight away to make sure you reached Marmora safely. Are these your only belongings.”
Lance looked down at his two travel bags and the case of books.
“Ah… yes.” Thace looked immensely sad that there was not more to do, but took the luggage from Lance’s arms anyway, and loaded them up on the carriage.
“Well then, let us be off.” 
Lance nodded, dumbfounded, but went to sit inside the carriage, as the door was held open for him.
“Please let me know if there is anything you need.“
“Thank you.” But the door was closed in his face as they took off. Lance had to grab the ceiling in surprise by the movement.
He looked over at the empty seat across him, where an assortment of tins, canisters and books were laid out. He opened them in turn to see different sorts of biscuits, conserved fruits, and a lukewarm can of tea. The Lord certainly spared no expenses.
Lance had barely finished his degree before both Keith and Kat demanded it was about time he returned to Marmora. He had to remind them that he still had a month left of school, before he could leave, but wrote back that he would return at the first opportunity. Lance had barely gotten the paper in hand, before Matt Holt appeared and threatened to pack his bags for him. He quelled the other by sending him back to Marmora with news he was leaving the next day, as he had to get his final matters in order. His master at his previous job, the head librarian, was sad to see him go, but wished him well in his future endeavours.
His professors not so much. They had thought it most tedious to allow Lance back into the institute to finish his work, only for Lance to take a simple secretary job. It was a direct insult to their school. Lance was sure they were just bitter, that he turned down a post in their research department. He never truly assimilated to school life after he returned, and only made a few fellow friends along the way. Only one of them met with him before his departure. A friendly senior whom he had met working hours in the library, his friend often was sound asleep on top of the books, exhausted from hours of study. Lance had hugged the other man goodbye and wished Curtis well, in his future work in mathematics.
When they arrived at Marmora the next morning, the doors opened on Lance before he realised what had occurred. He had fallen asleep for the day's journey, well fed on the treats from the cans, and rocked by the gentle movement of travel. Lance gasped as Hunk’s smiling face stuck his head inside.
“You are here!!”
Lance grinned uncertainly, but let the man pull him out of the carriage, and hug him, almost cracking his rib. Never mind the decorum. Thace and the other footmen only grinned amused at the display. Lance patted his friend on the back, relieved to see him again. Once he was done, Shay pulled him in for similar treatment. Her belly had grown round with child, but not as obvious as on Allura given their different stature and build. Lance grinned and kissed her cheek. He looked at the happy couple, and felt a spark of feeling as the world was right again.
“Come let us go inside and greet the others.” Hunk rushed them forward. Lance was about to enquire about his luggage, but it was already taken care of. Instead Shay and Hunk grabbed him by the arm each and marched him up the stairs, as to prevent him from running away.
“What is the matter with you two? What is going on?” They just walked faster as the large doors opened in front of them.
Inside the entirety of Marmora’s staff was lined up. Ready for presentation, as one would expect if the lady of the house had first been introduced. Lance scrunched up his nose. Something was amiss.
Hunk and Shay released his arms, only for them to be sieged by the Lord and Lady of the House. His sister squealed delightedly and threw herself at his arms. Keith stood behind her beaming.
“Welcome home.” He said gently. Lance only managed a small smile, before Krolia, and Shiro stepped forward.
“So good to see you again.” Krolia said and stepped towards him. Lance prepared for an appropriate bow, but Krolia had already swept him into a firm hug. Then she was quickly replaced by Shiro with the same enthusiasm. Lance was utterly confused. Then he realised. They knew. All of them knew exactly why he was here. And they were all happy to have him.
Lance looked confused to Keith, but before he could utter a sound, Krolia and Kat grabbed his arms, and went through to introduce him to the staff. Officially. Kolivan and Axca beamed at him with an air of professionalism as they introduced him to the staff. Many of them would leave with Krolia, when she went back home to the Original Kogane estate. Miss Ezor, winked when she was introduced as Kat’s ladies maid. A man was then introduced as Lance's new footman. Lance blinked a little dumbfounded but nodded at IIun.  He still was not sure how to assimilate to all this luxury. The Holt siblings bowed, next to Hunk and Shay at the introduction, and Lance gave them a small wave.
When introductions were over and the staff had been sent back to their doings, Lance was marched up the stairs by his sister and her mother in law. Lance looked pleadingly back at Keith, but Keith said nothing and just followed them up the stairs, after parting with his brother.
“We are so pleased to have you back.” Krolia said. Lance groggy for the travels, disheveled and dizzy, could only nod.
“Entirely pleased.” Katherine agreed.
“Keith has been miserable in your absence.”
“An absolute terror.”
“One can hope that your presence dulls him a bit, so one can actually get things done around here.”
The two ladies tittered happily as they walked along.
“Mrs. Krolia.” Lance hesitated, and Krolia barely acknowledged it with a small sound in her throat. “Are you sure this is alright? With me… returning… even after.”
Krolia stopped. She laid a hand on his cheek. “You are a remarkable man Lance McClain. You have an ability to make those around you immensely happy. What you did for my boys, in the small time you were here, is beyond me. All I wish is that you take care of my son.“ Lance nodded, trying to hide the fact that his eyes were becoming misty.
“And that you and I have another ‘ladies night’.” Lance blushed profoundly, but nodded, satisfying the older woman. Kat preened. She clearly also had passed the woman’s test, as the two of them seemed thick as thieves.
Lance was surprised to be led to his old rooms. Clearly Katherine would have moved in by now, and the key was more of a token, than an actual key. But no, Lance’s bags had already appeared and were being unpacked by a hesitant IIun. Some of the more femine decor had been removed for darker colours. But most of the room remained the same. His rapier and rifle gifted by Keith had been hung on the wall, and there had been made room for his books, with room for many more. Furthermore there was now an enormous, golding telescope, wrapped in a bow as a welcoming preset. Lance gave Keith a dirty look, which the other promptly ignored, then Lance was pulled away to look at more changes.
Finally Krolia and Kat released him, and said they would see him at dinner.
“Ilun, come with me. I am sure the Lord will help our new secretary feel welcome.” The footmen bowed and left with the ladies, leaving Keith and Lance alone.
Lance had barely gotten his barings, before the Lord uttered “Finally”, and then pulled Lance into a tight embrace, and an even more intense kiss. Lance melted in his arms. 

After Keith had firmly welcomed him back to Marmora, which took several hours, and required Lance to take a bath afterwards, where the lord joined him in the tub, pouring hot water over his head, and pebbling his neck with kisses, he was put to work. Lance, Shiro and Kolivan went over Keith’s calendar, and started making arrangements for the next coming days, and the work that needed to be done. When Keith tried to help, he was thrown out as he would not distract Lance. A new desk was already put into the office, but figuring out a new filling system that accommodated both Keith’s work, and Lance’s own, was a task Kolivan and Lance thoroughly enjoyed. Helping bring order to chaos. Shiro was in on it to further vex his brother.
With a battle strategy in mind, they relented for the day, and Lance could return to dinner with the family. It was nice to be part of such a pleasant affair, without sulking looks and throwaway insults being hurled over the table at any given moment. Well almost. Lance still found it thrilling to vex Keith at the dinner table, and was delighted to find out it was something his sister participated in as well. What did come as a shock was how easily they both fitted in with the Koganes. It felt very natural. Krolia and Kat plotting their next party together, and Shiro and Kat discussing gossip. It took some time getting accustomed to the Lord and Lady, but seeing Katherine and Keith interacting was something to behold. If one never knew better, one would guess they had been friends for a lifetime. Still the first time Katherine called Keith ‘My love’, Lance almost swallowed his spoon. The word was said with so much ire and dare, that it could only be meant as a taunt. Even more horrific, Keith responded in kind with “Dearest wife”, making Lance choke on his drink, when he finally coughed up the spoon. They table seemed delighted by his distress, traitors as they were the lot of them.

That night after everyone had gone to bed, after a pleasant evening playing cards and trading stories, Lance stood in fear in front of the door. The almost invisible door in his room.
He felt the shiver running down his back, as he shivered in his sleep clothes and bare feet, clinging to the small key. He breathed in a heavy sigh, and turned the key.
The door opened with a small creek, and Lance tiptoed inside the small passageway, and knocked on the door on the other side of the pathway connecting the two rooms. The door flew open, and Lance was pulled into a seething kiss. He pulled at Keith hair, as he was carried to the Lord’s bed, where he stayed the entire night snuggled against him. And many more afterwards. He would in the future only return to his own sleeping accommodations if the Lord was away on business. Else he would leisurely spend his nights and mornings, safe and sound in the embrace of the man he loved. Looking at his sleeping form with contentment and trace patterns over the man’s pale skin, barely believing that he got to have that moment, and got to have this man. 

Within days, numerous packages arrived for Lance. Most containing an entirely new wardrobe, but also other essentials he would need to fulfil his new position. Most of the clothing favours blue colours, and dark purples, and different accessories bearing the Marmora crest and purple colour. He also received his own personal seal with his initials, intertwined with the Marmora seal. Lance had to ponder, who had designed it to be such a way.
Other less pragmatic gifts also seemed to find its way into Lance’s possession. New cufflinks, a glittering pocket watch, books, an ornate pen and shining weapons. Lance held up the glittering dagger at Keith in direction. 
“One can never have too many knives.” Was the Lord's reasoning, and Lance deemed it a lost battle.
Keith was quite pleased to see Lance in his new clothes, and Lance felt a sort of newfound confidence strutting around in his new attire. Katherine took notice. Shiro was out on business and Krolia had returned home, so it was only the three of the left at Marmora. Keith had not yet joined them for supper. 
“He is clearly staking a claim.” His sister said mischievously. Lance sputtered.
“It is part of the contract. Every member of the staff wears the purple Marmora colour.”
“If you say so.“ 
Lance's arguments would have been much more headfast, had Keith not decided to join them that moment. He kissed his wife on the cheek and Lance on the mouth, before he sat down to eat, leaving Kat smirking and Lance an embarrassingly flustered mess.
“Why did you stop wearing your bracelet?” Keith asked halfway through dinner.
“It is not appropriate.” Lance clarified.
“Nonsense.” Keith said. “It was a gift.”
“No, what I simply mean is, it does not go very well with my attire to wear a women's bracelet.” Lanced reasoned, holding Keith's hand.
“I see.” Keith said, lost in thought. Lance looked to his sister, but she ignored them, eating her meal in comfortable silence. 

Lance would come to learn that even if his lover was a man that liked to have full control of the situation, and enjoyed being obeyed, he also enjoyed letting someone else hold the reins for once. He may shower Lance with gifts, and be the picture of stubborn pride and perfection in public, but in private he would hiccup flustered if Lance gave him a simple token. Keith enjoyed getting his shoulders rubbed after a long day's work, and even more to fall asleep in Lance's embrace, while Lance tickled his temple and petted his hair like an overgrown car.
As much as Lance enjoyed being carried to bed, revelling in the Lord’s strong arms, Being held close and firmly in able hands, he came to find that Keith enjoyed just as much to be the one being carried and thrown on the bed, as Lance did. He enjoyed letting Lance push him down into their bed, and explore just all the ways he could take him apart. A thrill Lance spent many years learning and expanding upon. The Lord was always much more content after such sessions of devotions, where Lance had spent an evening removing his binds, lessening the responsibilities on his shoulder and making him gasp his lover's name. They were quite suited together.

Lance easily found his way around the estate having already lived there for some time. He seemed to get along comfortably with everyone, despite the mysterious glares he would receive from the youngest Holt from time to time. After such an occurrence had happened five times, Pidge finally dreamed Lance was worthy of their time. Lance clutched his book close to his heart, as Pidge stepped forth from their hiding place. 
Pidge looked Lance up and down, from the polish shoes, clean trousers, ornate waistcoat, and blue jacket, to his slicked back short hair, and clean shaven face.
“I have to confess, this certainly explains a lot.” They said carefully, eyes calculating.
“I would guess it does.“ Lance nodded, seeing the understanding in the other’s eyes. They seemed sad somehow, or more like disappointed. Lance could only imagine being in Pidge shoes, thinking they finally had found a kindred spirit, only to be told it had all been a farce. But Lance was not as easily deterred. He straightened up and gave them one of his comforting smiles. His own smile, not Katherine’s well mannered coy smile, but his own bold curved one.
“Would you perhaps like to discuss it?” Lance gestures to a sitting room. Pidge’s face lit up and the scowl despaired in favour of a radiant round smile. They removed their fist from their hips and went to follow Lance with a lightness to their steps.

Indeed Lance was not the only one enjoying having an unusual choice in lovers and enjoying the safety of the house. Lance came to learn through Pidge’s extended ears, that one of the best kept secrets from the workers coming to Marmora, was the secrecy. Many working at the estate had similar preferences like Lance and the Lord. Ulaz lived together with the footman Thace in a similar manner as Keith and Lance. Kat’s ladies maid Ezor was partner with a woman larger than even Hunk, who was working in the kitchen. Even Acxa the head of the household did not prefer a traditional romantic partner if any partners at all. Pidge even relayed the scandalous story about how Acxa left her former employees post after defending three of her friends, who had unseemly relations. Her and the three other women were let go without much, and by confidence ran into the Lord. He had been present visiting the former employer, and witnessed the whole ordeal. Keith had hired them all on the spot. It was only later they found he was indeed a kindred spirit to them all. Now Acxa, Ezor and Zenthrid lived and worked on Marmora in peace. Unfortunately the last girl Narti had died a couple of years previous, after catching ill. Keith had provided the best medical service, but in the end she had succumbed to her condition. Now her cat still wandered around the old Kogane halls looking for its mistress. Pidge had relayed that part of the story in her most mischievous voice and made finger gestures at Lance to set a most ominous tone. Only for them to bark a loud “BOO!”, making Lance flinch and scream much to Pidge’s delight.
When asked later, after Pidge had stopped hiccuping with glee, they would not relay the name of the employer, only at Keith had come to loathe the man in the time after.
Lance's new life was truly strange for Lance to get accustomed to. His new normal seemed like a walking dream, he could wake up from at any moment. He had a loving caring relationship with his sister. A reasonable respectful relationship with his brothers and older sister. A profession he was proud of and if he did say so himself, surprisingly adequate at. He lived in a large warm house, was well fed and well loved.
He could be openly affectionate toward his lover, as if he was the newlywed wife, and nobody thought anything of it. Lance had fully enjoyed a slew of stolen kisses, hand holding, being swept away to dance along in a dark room, horse racing over the grounds,  and sparring matches in the gymnasium, that mostly ended in heated kisses afterwards, or against the nearest surface. Keith had proven to be a very affectionate partner in many matters, and was very intent on showering Lance with affection and intent.
All this was acceptable, except of course when they had visitors, then they still kept their respectable distance as brothers in law, while Keith held Katherine's hand. The household and their friends were inclined to keep their secret and happiness, but Lance and Keith knew they could not expect the same amount of understanding in the rest of society. It was not a time where their love would be accepted. If it had been, Keith would never have married Katherine in the first place. They were not truly hiding their relation, as they were very affectionate as friends and brothers in law, they were simply more careful. In most cases their banter and overindulging touches were interpreted as “Marvelous, displays of brotherhood.”
Quite lucky that the Lord got so splendidly along with his wife’s twin. Such a coincidence.
But still Keith made an effort to not keep Lance left out and include him and feel appreciated. Katherine as well. Neither of them wanted to let Lance feel unwanted. He was part of their odd little marriage in the good and in the bad.

Katherine had improved much since she had moved away from home at the McClain estate, but she still had spurs of illness that nobody could predict or cure. She was much faster to recuperate than before, but there were still days, where Lance and Keith took turns watching over her sleeping form. Either of them or Ezor was planted in the room, as an immobile rock by her mistress' side. Veronica came to check up on their sister's health frequently, but Kat also had the estate doctor Ulaz to watch over her every need. Lance thought her very spoiled.
It did not seem to bother Kat, that she was ill, she was more annoyed than anything, that she had to move all of her upcoming arrangements and visits, until she felt more herself. She had an ability to overexert herself much too often, and bring her back to the bed, after she meticulously tried to make up for lost time away from it. After Ulaz and Veronica saw the pattern, Kat was given a limit on how many social arrangements she could attend and host every week. A discussion Keith and her fought long and hard over, but Lance stayed out off, as his sister only had to look at him once, and he would have caved in to her demands. Keith did not share such weakness and stepped in to make sure his wife got the best given care, despite her wishes. The two of them were quite a formidable pair socially and were revered for their closeness and unmistakable love. Many asked Keith how he had achieved such a formidable match and happy marriage and he always answered.
“Marry your best friend, then make her brother move in to take over matters in which you disagree upon.” The statement was always met with humorous chuckles and light jest, but Keith always made sure to wink at Lance doing it, sending shivers down his back, making the word sound quite different to Lance’s ears. 

Still Keith was a man true to his word and took great care of his wife, and she wanted for nothing. He may be spending a fortune on keeping Lance well maintained and provided for, but he spared no less for Kat.
One night when Keith was watching over Katherine, Lance went down to the kitchens to split a pint with Hunk and Pidge. It had become a sort of tradition between them. To meet up once a week, share a glass, and complain about the woes they had been through during the week. This time they had hidden in the cellar amongst the kegs. After Lance had had a heart to heart with Pidge, he was swallowed into their circle. Instead of being Hunk and Pidge against Hunk and Lance, they were suddenly a trio, Pidge, Hunk and Lance. No hard feelings over having to share Hunk between them. They were all friends, but Lance had made Hunk swear that Lance was still his favourite.

Lance had slung his jacket over a barrel, discarded his waistcoat and cravat, and sat overturned on a chair, leaning his folded arms on the backrest, sipping at his mug. Hunk had sat down on the floor leaning up against the keg they were tapping from, and Pidge peered down at them, from their position on one of the standing kegs, muttering to themselves.
“I mean it’s great that she had such an improvement…” Lance complained, swinging his mug.
“Much..” Hunk agreed, drowning his own mug, and filling it up once more.
“But it makes me wonder, what kind of old magic there is in these walls.”
Hunk hummed, nodding.
“I mean, how can she improve that much from a simple move? It is not even that far from the old house.” More humming from Hunk. “But the change in the air should not have done much. If she had moved to the sea I would understand, but here.. It is barely down the road, we breathe the same air as we did back at the old house.”
Hunk nodded, but Pidge looked thoughtful.
“But that is just my opinion. I am not a doctor so therefore….” Lance made a scandalous sound that made the other laugh. 
“Maybe ..” Pidge wondered, making the other pause to listen to them. They had clearly indulged the least. While Hunk and Lance’s minds were foggy and mussed by the liquid, Pidge was still sharp and calculating. “Maybe the house really did make her sick.”
The two friends blinked at them, not fully understanding.
“I have to investigate something.” Pidge thrusted her barely touched mug into Hunk's waiting hands, slipped off the keg and ran out.
“What on earth came upon them?” Lance wonders, his brain not as aware as it should have been. Hunk only shrugged and drowned the last of Pidge’s mug.

“Fungus!!” Kat shriveled from her bedside three days later. Both her doctors stood awestruck looking at Pidge as they held up a vile. Lance sat beside her open mouth not believing the words, holding his sister's hand. Keith stood behind him, one hand on Lance's shoulder, the other on Katherine’s.
“Yes.” Pidge shook the vile. “In most of the house, but centered mostly in your room behind the wall paper. I scraped this from your room.”
“You snuck into a locked estate to collect fungus.” Lance muttered.
“I had to test my theory.” Pidge tsked like it was a matter of fact.
“I think it is mostly safe in small quantities, but you have lived in that room most of your life, and have inhaled quite a lot of it. So I think it only worsened your already frail condition, and staying in there for months, perhaps did not help your condition either.”
They looked at Veronica. “Perhaps some kind of antidote to counter some of the spores will help your health improve further.” Veronica nodded thoughtfully.
Pidge turned to the patient once more. “I am sorry I can not be of more service. If it had been caught sooner perhaps you would recover fully, but I fear that will not be the case. But I am no expert in botany, or medicine soo….. I am very sorry. “
Katherine’s shocked expression turned soft and she reached her hands out to Pidge. “No, thanks to you, we know much more. Thank you my dear friend. “
Pidge nodded, their eyes getting sort of misty.
The doctors left with Pidge to discuss possible counteract to Kat’s symptoms, leaving Lance alone with the Lord and Lady.
“I wonder if perhaps these spores also had an impact on mama, causing her emotional decay.” Katherine pondered holding up the vile with the fungus inside.
“There was no helping that woman.” Keith said with finality, firmly ending the conversation.

Chapter Text

“So…” Lance did not look up from the book he was writing in, despite Keith’s insistent careful tone. “It is someone's birthday very soon.”
Lance dipped his pen in ink and continued writing. “Indeed it is.”
He could hear his lover's annoyance as he moved closer, but Lance continued to ignore him.
“And I was wondering if you wanted to celebrate. Perhaps with a ball. ”
This time he did look up at Keith, who had sat his perfectly shaped behind on his desk, next to the book he was writing in. Lance smiled ominously, even if Keith grinned, happy to finally get the attention he was craving.
“There will be no celebrating, no relaxation and absolutely no spending a damn dime, before you sit down and do your paperwork. My Lord.”
The smile disappeared promptly. Keith sat down at his own desk across from Lance, moody and grumpy by Lance's dismissal as he wrote with fever in his own book.
“You promised to do this months ago.” Lance complained.
“But I have not received one, nor two, but six letters with urgency for this.” He smacked another contract down in front of Keith, who only pouted further.
“Oh stop acting like a foolish child. Just because you hired me does not make less work for you to dally around. Honeymoon days are long since over. You have to think of your obligations. Dear god, I wonder how you made things go around her before me.”
“With extreme difficulties and no sleep.” Kolivan remarked dryly from his spot near the door.
“Thank you Kolivan.” Lance said sweetly, before turning a scowl at Keith.
“Yes. Thank you Kolivan.” Keith said through gritted teeth, like an insulted child. He was sure to hear about that behaviour later, Lance would make sure. They mostly kept their personal ongoings separate from their professional business, but this month of the summer season, Lance seemed to be drowning in work, because his employer, and dear love always seemed to have forgotten something, or misplaced an important paper. Lance was fully over the biennale behaviour at this point, and felt he had not had a moment to breathe for so long. Whenever he thought he was done for the day, something else popped forth to claim his attention. With this rush an increase in affairs, he would have to hire a secretary for himself to get on top of everything.
Suddenly everything had to be rushed to prepare for the weekend the twins turned another year older. 

Even his sister was running around like a headless goose.
“It is our first birthday as the lady of this house. It is meant to be a big affair!”
Lance raised an eyebrow at her. She was covered in papers scattered around the room, describing menus’, invitations, guest lists, floor plans and other such like papers. And Lance had been instructed not to look at a single one, much less touch one.
“You are still the lady if you do remember. Nobody outside our chosen selected circle regards me with that title, yet somehow both you and Keith seemed it disrespectful be I am addressed otherwise.”
Kat only berated at him, un-deteriorated.
“So the invite may say Lady Kogane and Mr. McClain birthday, but the guests will come all the same.”
Lance gestured annoyed to all the papers, and his sister's rather ruffled appearance. Her normally perfect hair was oddly frizzy, and she was wearing two different pairs of stockings.
“Then why can I not be part of planning. I thought it was one of my duties as one of the celebrants, but Keith will not look at as much as a receipt for anything. And let me not get started on you.”
Kat feigned innocence and fell dramatically back in the cushions of her set, sending more papers scalding down on the floor.
“But you have been so busy with work. I am sure he just would not want to add to your already strenuous load.“ She had that particularly special smugness in her eyes. Lance was gathering more and more evidence that the Lord and Lady were hiding something behind his back. The pair of them were most frightening together.
Especially when Keith started to fib over the smallest details in their daily work. He was most unfocused and at most useless.
What he had not expected was that Hunk and Pidge would join in Keith's secrecy.
“What on earth are you doing?” He interrupted the two of them.
“Nothing!!!” Both Pidge and Hunk shouted, in a fashion that was anything but natural. Lance raised an eyebrow, and Hunk took a strategy step to the left to cover something behind him. Pidge had this manic grin about them, but seemed the more stable of the two. Lance sighed and shook his head.
“Just do not let it blow up at Katherine’s party. She will have your heads.”
“Of course not.”
“We would never.”
Lance rolled his eyes and went on his way as his so called friends started tittering together like a couple of schoolgirls. 

Lance watched as servants brought in buckets and buckets of white flowers and aches of purple and white silk. Furthermore they continued out the house further down the gardens and away from the house to a secluded clearing in the nearby forest on the grounds.
“We are having the party outside.” Lance huffed at his sister, as she signed off on the large deliveries.
“We are.“ She said ignoring his sulking, as he leaned on a nearby wall, most unbecoming.
“What will you do when it rains?” Lance said.
“It will not rain.“ Kat insisted, walking resolutely past him.
“You can never be sure.” 
Kat heaved, summoning all her polite manners, as to not rip all of her brother's hair off.
“If it does just so happen to rain, then we will also serve refreshments and host the dancing in the grand hall.“
“Then why put up the deck outside if you are planning to host indoors.“ Lance shrugged.
“Lance, I have everything under control.”
“But I can …” Kat grabbed her brother by the shoulder, and all but shook him.
“Rest…. I will manage this fine on my own.”
They stared into each others eyes as silence spread between them.
“My, my how the tables have turned.” Lance said smugly, shaking his sister's arms off him. He crossed his arms, and frowned involuntarily at her.  “Am I even needed anymore?”
With another roll of her beautiful eyes, Kat smiled at him and poked his nose.
“I assure you, you will be needed on the day. Fear not.“
He pushed her finger away from his face.
“I will not hold my breath.”

That night he went to his chamber, to turn in for the night, only to find Keith sitting on his bed fully dressed. This was quite abnormal. They usually stayed in Keith’s rooms, but Lance was not opposed to spending their night in his room for a change. His bed may be a tat bit smaller perhaps, but he was sure they would make the fit.
“You are here early my Lord.” Lance said coming in close, making a move to sit in the man's lap, but Keith halted his movement, making him stand in front of him.
Keith looked concerned. His handsome face, were always stern and serious but now it had a more solemn look to it. It did not make him less handsome, but it was rather troublesome nevertheless.
“You are thinking again. You know how I feel when you start having troughs.“ Lance jested.
He poked the stern line between Keith brow, making it soften in favour of a smile.
“My dear.” He hesitated.
“Judging from your tone, I will not enjoy whatever you plan to tell me.”
“I think not.” Keith bit his lip. Lance just patted his cheek.
“Alright I have steeled myself. Go on. Out with it.”
“I would like to sleep separately tonight.”

The words felt like a slap, and Lance was about to protest and inquire why the Lord suddenly did not desire him anymore. But Keith knew him already too well, and held up a hand chuckling, pulling Lance closer with the other. “Not for any of the reasons you can imagine, please pace yourself.“
Regardless of his lover’s reassurances, Lance grouched. Even as Keith wrapped his very capable hands around his hips and back side.
“I have a surprise for you tomorrow for your birthday.”
“A gift??!!” Lance said entertained, his whole mood changing with the thought of a present.
“A surprise. Gifts will come later.”
“You said giftssssss. So now I will expect multiple.” Lance wrapped his arms shamelessly around the man’s neck, and rested his knee on the bed, looming in over him, making Keith in turn strengthen his firm hold on Lance’s fame.
“Of course.” Keith hummed. Lance tried to keep him distracted by rubbing the nape of his neck, but Keith pulled him back. “No, I have a certain.. Plan for tomorrow, and that requires you to spend the night here. Can you do that for me?”
Lance fluttered his eyelashes and sucked his lower lip between his lip. A trick that previously had made the Lord give in to his demands.
“You will not stay with me?”
The man struggled for a moment then he forced a smile.
“Not tonight. Fret not, I will take revanche at a later time. I have no plans to get rid of you yet.” The handsome smile, warmed Lance insides, with the promise of later.
“I am not sure if I should be aroused or terrified.”
Keith made a bark of a laugh and got up from the bed. He placed his large hands on either side of Lance’s face and planted a firm kiss on his lips.
“Thank you my dear.“ He headed towards the door. “I will see you in the morrow. Sleep well.”
Lance sighed longingly, and fell onto the bed with a dramatic flourish.
“And I will be here… All alone… Lonely … without you..”
Keith briefly hesitated with his foot outside the door, back stiff with his shoulder so high they almost covered his slightly rosy ears.
“Good night my dear.” He turned in the door, with a stiff mask of a smile in place.
Lance moaned loudly without an ounce of shame.
“Unsupervised… Perhaps I will just have to take matters into my own hands.”
Keith gripped the doors. “Minx. Behave yourself.”
“I think not..” Lance dared with a raised eyebrow.
Keith’s smile wavered for a brief moment before he smacked the door behind him.
“Good night!”

Lance was woken early the next morning by IIun, Hunk and Shay. The sun was shining outside, and Lance predicted that his sister had been right that it would continue throughout the day.
He was marched out of bed and pushed down into the tub, where Ilun and Hunk scrubbed him from top to bottom, clipped his nails, trimmed his hair, shaved his face, and generally made him smell expensive.
“Make sure you clean in between the cracks and toes. Do not make me come in there!” Shay was seated outside the washing room on a chair, hands of her growing belly. She was not near completion of the pregnancy and was still working hard, but she just preferred to take more breaks sitting down nowadays.
“I know what I am doing woman!” Hunk cried back.
“Shay, do not come in, I am quite indecent!” Lance barked as well, but smiling at his best friend. Hunk in turn sent him a rather dirty look, and dunked another bucket of water over his head. Shay laughed from the other side of the door, while Hunk got his hands into scrubbing Lance’s scalp.
“Oh, like it is not something I have seen before. “
“Well I am a taken man now, I got to have some morals.”
Shay barked. “If you are not taken by the time I am done with you, I have done a very poor job.”
“Shay, how shameless.” Lance giggled, while Hunk just rolled his eyes at the two of them. IIun was trying his best, but he had not quite get acclimated to the tone between his employers and The Garrets.
“Why are you so insistent?” Lance asked as he forcefully retrieved the scrub from Hunk hand, so the man did not sand his skin down to the bone. “I swear I have never been cleaner since I came out of my mama’s.”
“You paint the most explicit images sir.“ IIun sighed.
“Just wait, you will be thankful for it later.” Shay called. “Get him out and dry him off.”

Lance was dried off, as he bit into some breakfast buns and some tea in his room. Shay presented him with a brand new suit for him to wear. Shining shoes. His pocket watch, cufflinks, key on chain, and his emerald bracelet was placed out in front of it. There was also a large flower for him to put in his breast pocket in front of his jacket.
“Specific instructions from the Lord.“ Shay warned.
“Fine, I will not object too much then.”
“Fusspot.” Shay said fondly.
Freshly clean, and smelling like a perfumery, he then went downstairs to meet with his sister. She was wearing a gown the same shade as Lance's suit, and a flower crown made of the same flowers. There was a basket by her side filled with pedals.
“You look radiant this morning. Happy birthday.” He leaned in to kiss her cheek and she tittered all lady-like.
“Happy birthday baby brother.”
“Four bloody minutes.” Lance grumbled, while his twin snickered into the back of her hand.
“It is enough.” 

“So… what is this grand scheme of yours?” Lance asked, peering out the nearest window. The lawn was heavy with activity.
“Do not think I have not noticed the raucous.” The house was preparing for the large number of guests that would arrive come evening. The whole atmosphere was bussing, as food was prepared, wine and beer brought up, and the house and garden decorated. Lance had seen large flower arrangements on every vacant surface, and ornaments dangling from every chandelier. The whole house shone, and had been cleaned from top to bottom.
“You will see.” Kat ensured him with a mischievous glint in her eye.
The door opened and Allura entered. Lance's eyes widened comically in surprise as he had not expected her before tonight. She was wearing an elegant pink dress, and wearing a similar flower crown as Kat. Shay popped her head in as well, now also wearing a flower crown.
“We are ready.” Allura said. 
“Splendid.“ Kat stood too and handed the basket with pedals to Allura. Allura leaned in and kissed Lance's cheek.
“Happy birthday.”
“Thank you. How are you?” He admired her growing form.
“As good as one can be, when one is growing a human being. “
“Hush, you look radiant as always.” He looked toward the door where Shay lingered uncertainly. “You as well.” He added to Shay. She rolled her eyes at him, and put her arms in Allura's elbow. They walked out together striking quite the handsome pair.
Kat gestured to him and Lance took her arm as well. Lance gave up fretting and just followed along with his sister.
They walked down the grand stairs and were met with a strange sight. Pidge and Hunk were dressed up in suits of similar cut, but each in a different hue. Hunk’s were tan and embers,  while Pidge were decked out in green shades. They were also wearing large flower crowns.
They were both wearing mischievous foreboding grins.
“I think I would much rather retire to my bed. “ Lance stopped in front of them fearing the worst.
“You most certainly will not. I have put too much effort into this for you to just bail out of this.“ His sister pinched his cheek like he had been a disobedient child.
“Come now, the others are waiting.” Allura hurried them out the back door and towards the clearing where the party would be held in the evening. Currently the noon sun was high in the sky, with the light travelling through the crown’s of the trees making the air glitter under the arch of trees and sunlight. The pathways into the meadow were lined with thousands more of the flower pedals showing the way. Soft music from a string quartet could be heard from the clearing, and with the light from the sun making the dust glitter in the air, the whole forest looked like something out of the realms of fay. More importantly a particular scene from a book series Lance was most fond of. 

“What is happening right now?” Lance stutters, gripping his sister's arms.
“I am taking you to your wedding, silly.” She patted his hand. “Now everyone line up.“
Shay winked shamelessly at him, before taking her place next to Allura as the first in line ready to scatter the flower petals in their wake. They were the most radiant flower girls Lance had ever seen. Next Pidge with a mysterious box, and then Hunk. Pidge patted a frozen Lance on the arms before taking their spot.
“Good luck.” They wished with barely contained laughter. Hunk was much kinder and pulled him into a hug.
“Deep breath, it is alright, you are going to do great.“ He gestured to the pathway. “On the end of that road is a man who loves you and is going to adore you every single day in his life.”
Lance nodded, still quite flustered.
“Do not make him wait.” Hunk said. Another nod from the now blushing groom. “Good man.” Hunk gave him a friendly pat, then took place next to Pidge.
“Impressive. I was not sure you would hold it together for so long.”
“You hush now.” Hunk sobbed, finally submitting to his own emotions and erupted into large sobs of happiness. Pidge extended the largest handkerchief Lance had ever seen.
“Save it until the vows at least.”
Hunk grabbed the cloth and blew his nose loudly into the flimsy fabric.
Lance smiled fondly at his friends, still feeling a slight trembling in his hands.
“Is this really happening? I am not dreaming?”
“You are not.” Kat reassured him, a hand on his arm.
“Are you ready?”
Lance bit his lip, commanding his body to settle, then nodding to his twin.
“Let us get you married then.” Kat said and led him down the aisle.

Lance felt like he was floating in clouds, gratefully for Kat’s steading arm, or he feared he may have fainted. They walked in procession to the clearing, with Allura and Shay at front, and Lance and Kat at the end. When they neared the last twist of the path, Kat made the procession hold, and they were sent off in pairs. Firstly Allura and Shay scattering more flowers as they walked. Then Hunk and pidge with the box. Pidge smiling and dignified, Hunk subtle crying and less dignified.
Kat held on to Lance’s hands as she bid him wait for just one more moment. The music changed and they turned the corner.
The meadow had been prepared for a large party that evening. Tables and chairs were scattered about for guests to rest on, decorated with the silk bows, made from the shiny fabric Lance had noticed brought in earlier in the week. Tents with long tables prepared for food and drinks. Large torches to be lit when the sun went down stood ready at every corner. A table off to the right for offerings and gifts for the twins. And an enormous large deck for dancing. A large area prepared for the musicians that would come later. Everything was decorated with flowers, silk garlands and banners in white and Marmora purple. But that was all for later. At the entryway over the flower path, were several arches of flowers one had to pass through, and under the largest one at the end, stood Lance's future.
Behind him stood his friends and brother. They were dressed in suits in similar cuts like Hunk and Pidge, but theirs was in dark purples and dark green. Matt was also wearing a flower crown, but Shiro was not. In front of them, all the chairs were lined up, and all of the staff were seated, witnessing the event. Krolia sat in the front row with her hand in Kolivans. Ezor close sat next to Zenthrid offering her a handkerchief. IIun was off to the side, smiling coyly. Thace and Ulaz was part of the string quartet together with the large footman Regris and another unfamiliar woman. The whole estate was there. Allura, Pidge and the Garret’s had taken seats on the other side of the pathway, mimicking Shiro, Matt and Krolia to Keith's side of the party.
Lance looked at his own side, not sure what to expect beside the people in his wedding party. To his surprise Veronica's face appeared next to Axca. Lance felt like the wind was blown out of him, but Kat whispered in his ear at everything's was alright. 

Encouraged by her words, Lance continued down the aisle towards the final flower arch.
Under it stood Keith. He looked as always most handsome, with his black locks pulled away from his face by a purple ribbon. His suit was dark and purple, but fitted him well. His scar was evident against his clean shaven face, but it only made him look even more strong and fierce to Lance.
His eyes had not left Lance’s presence since they entered the clearing. Lance felt them running up his form, taking in every single moment. When Lance felt curious enough to look back, he was only met with a warm and soft look. It made him feel like he was most precious, most loved and very much desired by this man. This man that Lance had chosen for himself. This man, who he had chosen in turn. 
At the end, Kat kissed Lance’s cheek, and handed him over to Keith in a similar fashion Luis had done to her, months ago. Then she took her place next to Allure, reaching out for her hand. The two women beamed at him hand in hand, tears in the corners of their vivid eyes.
Shay gingerly sat patting her husband’s back, Hunk already working through his second handkerchief.
Pidge winked at them from their spot next to Acxa and Veronica. His sister gave him a nod, then Keith pulled him under the arch with him. The music reached the final note, before giving room for the Lords to speak. 

“I wish I could have done this differently. I wish that I could give you a wedding that you truly deserve. That I could declare to the world that you are truly mine and only mine, but for now, this will have to surfirse. I have gathered our friends and family, for they are the only ones that matter, besides you. We may not have the approval from the heavens or from the church, but I do not need their approval, as long as I have you. My dear. My dear Lance McClain. We may not have had an honest start, and you may have done the best of your abilities to drive myself to madness, but in doing so you always shoved me the best in you, and in myself.  For you are truly, a marvel my dear Lance.”
Lance held his breath by the beautiful words. He had never heard Keith being this articulate.
“I stand before you to give you my vows.” Keith held up both Lance’s hands and looked him deeply into his eyes, trying to convey his deepest desires and wishes.
“I promise to always stand beside you, in thick and in thin, through sickness and health, for rich or for poor. To always honour you and respect you. To cherish and love you in all what our future will bring. I promise to be patient and forgiving. To always be honest, to be yours faithful, to be yours devoted. To be your friend. To be your family. To be your lover. To be your person. “ The communion cooed around them. Lance could still not remove his eyes from the Lord in front of him. He spoke with such resolution and pride, even if the tip of his ears were taking on a rosy hue.
“All this I swear to you. Even when you drive me to my wits end. When we fight and I curse you to the heavens. Even when you vex me. I swear that all these will be true. That I will always be yours, as long as you are always mine.”
The congestion tittered around them by the speech. Hunk tears being the loudest, but a few more were caught dapping their eyes discreetly. 

Lance took a moment to gather his courage and find his voice. Keith sucked in a heavy breath as Lance started speaking.
“When I first met you, I found you the most arrogant, despicable, spiteful person I had ever been acquainted with.”
The crowd muttered affronted in their seats, but Keith only beamed positively more by the honest rude remark.
“But it only shows that the best of people can be in the wrong, because you are the most caring, wonderful, warm person. You have shown me what matters. How to stay true to oneself and to others. You put others' needs over your own, and you are a man of your word.“ He barely looked towards his sister, but he felt her eyes on him. Then he felt a light tug at his hand. He looked down at his shoes, before opening his mouth once more.
“So I have one more vow from you I require. Never change. Continue to be your stubborn, proud, warm self. Because that is the man that I fell for. The man that shoved me true selfless love, and it is that man to whom I give my wows.“

The blood was rushing to his ears, but Lance continued keeping his voice steady.
“I vow to always love you. Through the bad times, and the good times. Through stormy weather and shining sun. I promise to be yours devoted. To be yours honestly, patiently and lovingly. I promise to be your person. “
The crowd bellowed out around them, and Lance saw the tears in the corners of Keith's eyes. Lance knew it had not been that excellent or articulate of a speech. But he had not had weeks of preparation to write down his declaration of love like Keith had, so that would have to do. Shiro’s smug grin when the Lord read his vows, recalled that he at least had had a part in the proceedings. 
Keith seemed most satisfied by the confession from Lance, and that was all that really mattered.
Matt appeared from thin air behind them with his arms raised. Pidge ducked under his arms holding up the mysterious box, now opened to reveal thin rings inside.
“Do you Lancelot Jonathan Robert Charles McClain promise to love and honour this man.”
“I do.” Lance said, and spilled the first ring over Keith's finger.
“And do you James Keith Joshua Kogane promise to love and honour this man.”
“James….?” Lance whispers under Matt’s baritone cry.
“Do not ruin the moment.” Keith whispered through gritted teeth, before loudly declaring “I do!!”, and slipping his own ring over Lance’s finger.
Matt nodded and proclaimed. “By the power given to me by none, I now declare you married in the eyes of everyone witnessing this union. May you have a long and prosperous marriage. You may now kiss the groom.”
Matt had barely finished his words before Lance was pulled into the most wondrous and tender kiss of his life. That was quite a statement considering he has been living at the Marmora estate for some time, and had been given a fair share of Keith undivided loving attention. Keith’s hands were firm against his hips as he was pulled closer.
The crowd that had erupted in cheers around them, throwing more flowers up in the air, seemed to fade away around them, leaving only the two of them in their own worlds. Slowly the noise and the word around them returned as Keith pulled away. Lance blinked his eyes open slowly, looking up at the love of his life. The music started up again behind them.

“Happy birthday.” The man said breathlessly. The sun was playing in his hair, which was now adorned with several of the flower deals, and his eyes spoke of pure devotion and love.
Lance snorted and pulled him back into a much fiercer kiss, which was far too loving to be proper. They were pulled apart by Kat who felt their display of affection was perhaps a little too affectionate for the crowd.
“Alright, I will give you two, half an hour to get your control of your inhibitions, but you must return or we will cut the cake without you. We are running a tight schedule people, and we still have a party tonight.“
Lance looked around and saw there was indeed a large cake waiting for them. He nodded, but was then pulled by the hand by Keith to find a more secluded part of the meadow to truly show his devotion to Lance.
They did make it back before Kat’s declared deadline. They cut the cake and shared it with everyone around them. Lance looked around his friends, his sisters, and his new family in law. Looked at the staff and all their happy faces, and for a moment tucked into Keith's side he was most content.

Soon everyone was ushered back to their work, and Lance was ushered back up to be made presentable once more. There was still a party to be held come evening. And what a party.
Keith had made good promises on his word, and he had not been able to give Lance a wedding reception, but he did throw one glorious party for his spouses. Everyone who knew everyone had joined. Even from the city, Duke Zarkon and Honervra appeared. Alfor and Coran greeted the twins with open arms and large gifts for both of them. Mistress Tigel, Mr Blaytz, Mr Gyran were of course also in attendance. The ton from the town, including the mayor and even Mr Iversson with his wife Ellen, maiden named Sanda. It was clear between them who was the commanding officer at home. Lance’s friend Curtis from school did not make an appearance but did send a large gift instead. Most of Lance's family even came. Luis and Lizzy with the children, and even Marco with his new wife Annadil. The only one who did not show was of course their mother. They had debated whether or not to invite her. Keith and Kat were against it, but Lance, appealing to their manners, had pushed the invite through. He did not trust the woman, but he knew the gossip would harm the Lord and Lady’s image if at least an invite would not have been issued. Lance's mother was still set in her mindset about being betrayed by her family and had not responded to the invite. Veronica had tried to talk to her about the matter, but she seemed to be at the understanding that Lance and Katherine never existed. Lance had felt the last of his respect from the woman disperse after that, and did not miss her loss.

Beside all what he need of family was right here among him now in his home. His older sisters and brothers with nieces and nephews, with more on the way. Allura, even with her arm around the tall annoyingly handsome frame of Lotor. Hunk and Shay, who were not part of the party itself, but were working to keep the whole of them fed doing the evening. Pidge who managed to sneak in during and took great pleasure in hiding in plain sight.
His new family in law, the stern but caring Lady Krolia, and the quiet but suave social Shiro. Those were the people who mattered. The people who lived and worked here and this house. This was his home.
Them together with his husband.
“Have you seen our husband?” Kat would jest in the future. Because that was what he was. Their husband. Their fiance and their Keith. In whatever times that may come.
He had been the most entertaining host, and adoring husband through the evening, never leaving Lance and Katherine’s vicinity and changing between them. Lance could barely keep track of how he managed such a feat.
Lance took a moment to himself away from it all, and sat down next to his sister on a bench. The buzzing of music and people was quieter here a bit away from the trung.
“How are you doing?”
Kat’s heaved a couple of breaths trying to get the breathing under control. She had over indulged in the dance, and was now trying to let it overcome her. Despite her best efforts, she was still not in full health. She coughed and Lance let her lean on his arm.
“I am fine.. You are worrying too much.” He sat by her, while she got her bearings just watching her. His mirror image.  His twin. The esteemed Lady Kogane. They were so much alike. And then again nothing alike at all. He thought back his year in her shoes. How he would never be her, and she would never be him, and simply accepted it. She had a mole under her left ear lobe that Lance did not match. Lance had a scar on his hip from falling from a horse. Katherine’s left pinky finger was slightly more crooked than Lance’s. They were not each other. 
“What is it?” Kat whispered into the darkness, as they saw the light being lit across the clearing.
“Thank you.”
“For what? The wedding? I quite enjoyed planning it, honestly. But is was no matter it went..”
“No.. for everything else. For him.” Lance interrupted her, his eyes following a certain form in the distance from their hiding spot.
Katherine faltered a bit. “Of course. You are my brother. I would do anything for you. Just like you did for me.”
They still together for another moment, just letting the sounds from the party being carried by the mild wind.
“I do not know how much time I have, but I know I want to spend it with the two of you. Together.” Kat’s remark was so inaudible, Lance had barely missed it entirely.
“Together.” Lance agreed and grabbed her hand. He held their intertwined hands up between them staring into his twins eyes, a silent promise between them.
“You were always the better twin.” Lance whispered.
“I know.” Kat whispered back, barely controlling a giggle.
“We better get back before our husband sends out a search party for us.” She leered, making Lance snort most unbecomingly.
“Even worse, he might send Matt.”
Kat laughed and Lance helped her to her feet. They walked back arm in arm, to find a flustered Keith, who had indeed almost sent his entire staff out to locate them. They both berated him for it, but he just seemed content that they have been returned. The party continued, and Lance was pleased to find that Keith indeed had provided more than just one gift as promised. When the time neared midnight the party gathered out on the ground to a great firework show hosted by the Holts. While the crowds were fascinated by the large explosion of glittering colours, Keith pulled both Kat and Lance close on each side.
Standing behind the crowds, Lance and Kat lean their head on the man’s shoulder, and found each other's hand on his back.
“Happy birthday Lady Kogane.” Keith said with a smirk. Kat rolled her eyes and Lance chuckled, only moving close into the man’s side.
This was home.

Chapter Text

TWO YEARS LATER 

---------------------------------------------------------

They had two wonderful, but eventful years before Lady Krolia gathered her two sons and their spouses for a talk in the parlour of Marmora. 

“I think it is time we discussed the matter of an heir”
Both sons visibly paled, their mother did not have time to cuddle her son's sensibilities.
“As it seems that neither of you will provide an heir, we will have to discuss alternatives.“
The Lord and brother looked helpless to each other, and quietly to their spouses, but none came to their aid, so Krolia continued to march back and forth in front of them.
“Despite both of your efforts in lovemaking, neither is resulting in anything constructive.”
She stared both of her sons down. “So unless you have any illegitimate children you have not informed me about, we need an alternative plan of action.”
Both Keith and Shiro looked absolutely horrified, and Shiro’s husband was in a similar state of shock. Only Lance and Katherine looked seriously at Krolia and nodded, both determined.
Lance did not point out that illegitimate children were quite ironic considering Shiro was once considered as such. But Krolia had been the mistress before she had been Lady Kogane and did not think the world only to be made of clouds and roses. She was a practical woman. Things had been hectic after the twin’s birthday, but normalcy did return and with that a lot of work. Lance had some trouble keeping everything on his plate, and asked for help after a period where the Holt’s had had a boom in idea generation. He reached out to an old friend to come help for a period, until Lance had matter under wraps once more. His friend was finishing up his studies, and had a period of free time while he planned his next move and applied for workplaces in mathematics. Lance had presented the man's references to Keith in his office. 
“Do you mind me taking on one of my old buddies back from university. He was a senior for me, but he is most eligible for the job.”
Keith had agreed momentarily. What ever Lanced needed, Keith would provide.
The man arrived within the week at the estate, which was currently also housing Shiro and Krolia.
Lance had greeted his friend at the door and pulled him into a tight embrace. “Well met, good friend.“
“How good to see you Lance. I am here to save your ass once more.“
“Of course you are. I would not have sent for you otherwise. “
He turned to his family with an arm around his friend. 
“Lord Kogane, Mr. Shirogane and Lady Kogane, and Mrs Kogane, may I present my good friend and old school mate, Curtis.“ 
Kat and Keith welcomed Curtis to their home with open arms, while Shiro had fallen silent just staring at the new arrival. Lance found it odd as Shiro was the more sociable of the men present. It took only a couple of hours to deduce why. Shiro was in love.
When Curtis left Marmora estate for his new teaching job, Shiro followed him like a love sick puppy. They had a ceremony similar to the one Lance and Keith had held, within a couple of months. Shiro reasoned that he did not want to spend more time than necessary begin apart from his beloved.

So now Curtis had become a permanent part of the family as well. He looked frightful at his mother in law and then back at Shiro. When neither of her sons spoke, Krolia continued.
“No illegitimate children then. I never thought it was a possibility, but one can never be certain. If needed, I could provide another child, but it can not be guaranteed that it would be a son, nor should his preference be laid in a childbearing match. With my track records we are off to a terrible start. Plus it would be possible dangerous for me at my age.” She glared down at her sons.
Keith turned as red as the carpet in his office. “No one is birthing anyone.”
“Who would even father your child?” Shiro asked aghast, looking like a possible headache was coming on. Krolia, looked towards the door where Kolivan was stationed at the ready as the professional he was, not even looking at his employers.
“Absolutely not!!” Keith seethed. “I forbid it!!!”
“You do not forbid me! I am your mother!! I can do whatever pleases me.”
“NO!!!” Shiro and Keith agreed.
The three of them bickered a bit more, before Katherine cleared her throat demanding the attention of the room. Curtis looked happy for the interruption, while the Kogane’s revered her with curiosity.
“There will be no need for your valiant sacrifice Krolia, as I will do it.” She said, and sipped on her teacup indifferent to her family strife.
“Do what?” Keith asked only slightly bluntly with obvious annoyance.
“I will provide an heir.”
At once Keith protested. “No, it could kill you! We will simply adopt. I forbid it! No!”
“I am your wife, but you very much know, that does not give you the right to decide for me!”
Kat and Keith stared each other down, but none of them were wavering.
Keith instead turned to Lance. “Why have suddenly become silent. Do you not have anything to say about this?”
“I agree with her.“
Keith laughed sharply and picked his ear like he had not heard his partner correctly.
“I am sorry, please say that again.” Lance looked the Lord directly in his eyes and repeated the sentence.
“I agree with her.” Lance reached over and took his sister's hand. “We have already discussed this and we agree on the matter. Katherine will carry the next Kogane heir. We already have a plan.”
Lance and Katherine had discussed this. A year into the marriage Lance had a heartfelt talk with his sister. Despite her blossoming life as a socialite, with friends and the illness under control, she was not happy. She tried to conceal the fact, but Lance knew her. Knew what she had sacrificed for his happiness, and what she had given up. They had never truly discussed the matter. Kat always had an excuse at the ready to leave the room, when Lance tried to broach the subject. But he cornered her one evening and sat her down.
“We need to talk. We both know you have avoided the subject, but we need to talk.“
Lance sat down across from her on the soft cushions, but Kat avoided his eyes still.
“You have been avoiding the topic of an heir.”
She bristled, already on the defense of the inquiry.
“There is nothing to discuss about the matter. I will have the next Kogane heir.”
Lance was shocked by the boldness of her statement. Lance had come to discuss the possible solution of adoption, not for his sister to do the dead herself.
“Kat, the birth could kill you. We can not let you risk it. I can not bear you to risk such. I can not lose you.”
“It is not your choice to make, I have made up my mind.”
Lance rose and sat beside her, reaching out for her, but she refused the gesture. Still he pleaded with her.
“No. We can not ask for you to sacrifice any more.. “
“It is my choice..” She heaved, somehow still remaining calm despite her brother's frantic tone.
“Is it? Did you even have a choice..'' Lance was insistent, and finally made her turn to look at him. He took her hand. The one carrying the large wedding ring, that was an obvious sore spot between them. “Why did you marry him in the first place Kat.”
Something unpleasant washed over Kat’s face. Lance sighed.
“I have eyes. And I am not as stupid as people believe.“ 

His sister still held her tongue, but Lance could see her resolve wavering.
“Why did you do this? For my….”
Kat’s interruption forced him to be silent. Lance was quite taken by the melancoloness in her voice.
“To be honest, my heart was broken a long time ago. Lotor made sure of that. I tried too hard to get over him, and I thought Keith was a way of that. But it was just my own selfish wishes. My heart was already unsalvageable. “
His sister hung her head, but held steady on his hand.
“I saw how he looked at you. In a way he would never look at me. “

The silence in the room was unbearable. The only sound was the sound from the large grandfather clock. 
“Lance… I am dying.”
Lance immediately protested at the statement, but Kat hushed him.
“Hush. Not now, not in a year, but it will happen. I want to make the best out of it. I may not have romanticised love, but I have you and Keith. ….. It is not enough… I want more.“
The admission seemed to take her breath away, and her breath became staggered.
“I want to have a baby.”
Lance felt his own fear grip his heart, looking at his pale sister. A sister who he thanked every moment to still have in his life. His words were a mere whisper.
“It could kill you.”
“I do not care.” She spat out. Her words so harsh, spoken with such passion and sadness, but also determination. ”I want to try. If I survive this child will love me unconditionally. And if I do not…” She sighed deeply, the air heavy and solemn between the siblings. “Then I can leave a piece of me to you and Keith to care for. I would be happy. I do not need a lover. That's all I ever wanted. Unconditional love.“
They sat in silence once more. The thoughts running rampant in Lance's mind, but they stilled as he studied his sister's perfect profile.
“Are you sure?” He rested a hand on her shoulder in a carefully calculated motion, frightful to alarm her further. “I could never ask that of you.”
She smiled. Her sweet soft smile, that sent fond feelings through his body, reminding him of their easiness of childhood. She lifted her hand and surrounded his, gently giving it reassurance.
“You do not have to. I will give it willingly.” She whispered.
Lance tried to smile, but the thought made him nauseated.
“Even if that means you have to share the Lord’s bed. “
Kat’s face turned a greenish colour. “We will have to figure out a way..” She said after a moment, no more pleased with the consequences than he was. 

“I may have an idea.” 
Both siblings yelped, one more graceful than the other, when the bespeckled head of Pidge popped up like a jack-of-a-box between them.
“Pidge. You have been spying again. How uncomersobe of you?” Kat scolded lightly, pointing a judgmental finger down their nose.
“But not unusual.“ Lance mumbled, still gathering his nerves off the floor.
“I know when my skills are needed.“ Pidge adjusted their glasses unbothered. Lance huffed, still annoyed with the fright.
“I am not so sure that you can be of service this time. Unless you intend to build a human child in your workshop.”
Pidge made an uncommitted noise and shrugged, then jumped over the back of the sofa to sit between the twins.
“Tried that, but the advancement in technology is nowhere near anything useful at this point.”
“You are a terrifying creature.” Lance glared at them. Pidge only smiled and batted their eyelashes at him.
“Aww thank you. You say such sweet things.“

“Let me get this straight. You can create a child.” Keith said, flabbergasted. Pidge rolled their eyes at the Lord's immense stupidity. Lance had to mind his manners not to do the same.
“No, I can not provide miracles. It will have to be done the old fashion way. Your seed in Kat’s womb.” Pidge had been fetched into the sitting room, by Lance's insistence and had made their grand entrance and bowed in front of the family.
Now they held up a finger, drawing a descriptive line into the air between the Lord and Lady.
Both of them looked positively green with the insinuation.
“Will you relax? I have a solution.” Pidge grinned, the discomfort of their employer clearly humorous to them.
Pidge placed a glass vile on the table in front of them, leaving the onlookers in suspense.
“You will provide this, and I will inject it into Kat.” Keith's entire face tried to match the purple of his cravat, while his wife’s green hue tried to match the wallpaper.
“When you say inject.” Shiro asked, in a more level headed, since he was no longer included into the equation. Curtis looked on with some interest while Krolia still remained the unreadable mask she always wore. But Lance could see her left eyebrow had moved only a smidge. Her interest was definitely peaked. Pidge straightened further.
“I mean below the skirts, in a clinical, sterile, perfectly safe fashion.” They emphasised the safe, as everyone in the room sent them piercing glares. They rolled their eyes. “I think it will work.”
“Think… or know.” Keith retorted, eying Pidge with suspicion and perhaps some well earned fear.
“We would have to experiment.”
With the conclusion, the sitting room erupted into arguments and declarations of lunacy. Only Lance and Kat remained calm, and it was up to Lance to once more make the tone audible. Lance rubbed Keith's shoulder, trying to calm the man down. Lance’s most effective method of such, was frowned upon in company and was best kept behind closed private doors, so the shoulder would have to do, even if it took more time. 
“It always unnerves me, when they get that look in their eyes.“ Keith mumbled under his breath. Lance nodded carefully.
“I think this is worth a try at least.” Keith noted Lance's steady but wistful smile.
“Kat…” He turned towards the woman to get her opinion.
“No. I want to try…” He reached over and Keith grasped her hand. “So please let me.”
Keith was no match for the eyes of both the McClain's twins directed at him, and it took a moment before he sighed defeated and agreed to try.
Joshua was born the next summer. It did nearly kill Kat to bring him into the world, but she was sometimes the more stubborn party in their little marriage, and this was one thing she did not compromise on. Their son was born under the cries of his mother, who was held encouragingly between her brother and her husband as she screamed and pushed the new life into the world. He had his mother’s tan complexion, but the same black hair and dark eyes as his father. As he grew older and started speaking, he was so much like his biological father it was unbelievable. He was a smart, witty,  but a stubborn child that would grow into a handsome, dutiful gentleman.
He was the pride and joy of his parents, all three. 

Kat got to see him turn five before she passed. The effort it took her to bring her son into the world, cost her her health in the end. After Joshua’s birth, she was once more confined to her bed, depleted of energy to do more than take care of her baby and rest. When the weather was compliant and mild, she moved outside to enjoy the sun, but she did not fair far from the house. Those last years of her life, was the most happy she had ever been. She did not need the social life, the parties and the wine and dancing to be happy. Her son was her pride and joy that gave her more will to live and do so happily, than any of them imagined.
Her family was with her when she passed. They had all been aware of the inevitable, even young Joshua, but it did not make the blow of her passing any less bearable.
Afterwards the Lord Kogane got a reputation as a grieving husband, prioritising raising his heir and running his business rather than finding a new wife. He was throughout his life exemplified as the most devoted husband, who never as much as looked at other women, staying true to the memory of his late wife. Joshua never missed female of motherly guidance, as Lady Katherine’s sister, his grander mother and godmother Lady Allura, did their best to spoil the boy, so that he never lacked anything. He still missed the late Lady Kogane, but her memory remained in his heart, and shaped him into the man he became.  
The staff of his home also made sure he never lacked anything of love and affection, including the housekeeper, and Mrs. Shay, who treated the boy like she did her own children. The lot of them, Joshua and the four Garrett children, got along like a house on fire, always keeping the house on their toes. The batch sometimes included Allura's eldest son, but more than often it was her youngest daughter that ran in the coattails of Joshua. Allura and Lance joked that perhaps they should set up a similar engagement like Keith and Katherine to ensure the next generation. Lotor and Keith did not approve of that idea, and Keith looked positively sickly by the bare mention. The two men could now bear being in each other's presences, but the two of them did never see eye to eye, despite the closeness of their spouses.
After the death of the Lady Kogane, Lance got the nickname as a kind of jest by the ton. He had after all been looking after the grieving Lord Kogane, and raising his nephew like it had been his own son. Indeed the man had practically taken almost all of the Lady’s duties, despite the obvious the gossip mongers said. The Title “Lady Kogane” suited him quite well.
If they only knew. 

Lance had been devastated by the loss of his twin, but he still had a family to care for. A husband who needed him, a son who loved him, a house to run and business to attend to. He only came through it because of his son and husband. He was indeed Lady Kogane, and would continue to be so. Even as his son grew up, and married the next Lady Kogane, the nickname stuck around.
Keith was his person and he would stay by his side forever.

Long live the Lord and Lady Kogane.

Chapter Text

Lance sat in his study, reading a book, the light shining in from the window, when his son entered. Lance rose to give the young man a hug, but the boy, already nearing the age of twenty, simply bowed as were proper, making Lance scowl. He nodded then and invited the man to sit and have some from the pot of tea on the table. He sat across this father, stiff and proper, clearly something of most importance playing his mind. Lance leaned back in his seat, enjoying the opportunity to simply observe.
The boy looked so much as his father, even their manners were alike. And so were their tells. Even if Joshua did not show, Lance had slept next to his father for so many years, that Lance was not in doubt. Joshua was agitated, and perhaps nervous. 

After too much silence had passed, Lance urged Joshua to state his business, as he clearly had not travelled all the way out to the country just to see this old man. It was a joke, as Lance was still very much a young vigorous man of forty and two, but his foolish son did not object.
The young man nodded primly and proclaimed, “I have talked with Miss Josefine and found her an agreeable person.”
Ah. So this was the matter his son wanted to discuss. Lance smiled at his son. 
He had met the girl, and she was most agreeable and pleasant, but not what Lance had imagined for his son. Still he knew his son took the matter of marriage most seriously, and most certainly regarded his parents' opinions.

“Indeed. And is she fine enough to carry on the title of Lady Kogane?”
“She is not you, but she will have to do.” Joshua said seriously, making Lance sputter. Joshua only barely did not roll his eyes. 
“Surely papa you do not think I am that daft.“ He said undeterred and reached for a cup of tea, ignoring Lance almost choking on his own cup. 
“I always knew that was going on with you and father. And why no one must know. Why did you insist on being called Tio in public. But that I was allowed to call you papa in private.“
Lance took a moment to compose himself. It was not that they kept their relationship a secret from their son, but they had never been entirely honest about the matter either. Still some action had to be taken to uphold appearances, and Lance could understand the confusion for a young child to be permitted to call his papa by the title one moment, then denied it the next. Both Keith and him agree they would discuss the matter when Joshua would grow older, but it never came to be. And Joshua never seemed to mind, or have the need to ask such questions. And so time passed and now they were here.
Joshua had deflated a bit in his seat, very serious once more. He opened and closed his mouth uncertainly, and Lance moved closer to hear.
“Sometimes I perhaps wondered if my mama even existed.” 
Lance felt the pity and loss dig into his stomach. He had been so young. He barely got to know her. 
“She did. She did indeed.” Lance reached over and held onto Joshua's arm in comfort.
“How much do you know of her? “
His son shrugged, but did not force Lance’s hand away from his arm.
“Only that her and father were engaged to be married and they had a long courtship. She swooped in and enchanted father with her spirit, good manners and beauty. And then there had never seen a happier couple since.“ 
Lance took a deep breath. He could see the weight on Joshua’s shoulder, just like it had been on his fathers. The quest to find the perfect wife, and the reputation of his parents' love had not made the task less daunting or easier for their son. 
“Come with me.” Lance said and rose from his seat. 

Joshua followed Lance upstairs and waited briefly outside the office, while Lance rummaged around to find what he seeked. Then they were off again, ending up in the gallery where a large handsome portrait of Lady Katherine Kogane, hung next to all the other portraits, each depicting a Kogane. Next to Katherine hung Keith in the same grand fashion, and after that a family portrait of them both with young baby Joshua. A much smaller portrait had been commissioned in secret after Katherine’s death, depicting the Lord standing, next to a sitting Lance, who held a six year old Joshua in his lap. I hung in the Lord’s office away from prying eyes. But this painting was for the public. Lance could remember young Joshua standing below the painting looking up in awe at his parents. Sometimes he would fall asleep in front of them, and Lance would have carried him back to bed, all snuggled up in his caring embrace. Now Lance placed an old sketchbook on top of the bench in front of the painting. 

Lance gestured to Joshua to come close to inspect, after he had turned the pages to find the one he needed. He stood back, and titled his head in thought as he looked down at them, a soft smile dancing on his lips. Joshua peered over the pages, hands clasped behind his back in proper fashion. 
“Your father drew those in secret during their courtship. It took me many years to persuade him to show me.”
The pages showed stills and sketches of the then young Miss McClain. Sitting at a table, reading a book, looking under the brim of her bonnet, holding a pistol, and sitting on a horse. All drawn clearly in secret, and some only half done, as by memory. Joshua turned the pages, and the sketches became less hurried and more detailed, focusing on the ladies face and elegant silhouette in everyday activities.
Lance observed Joshua's features turning soft as he turned the pages. The glimpse into the woman was much more personal than the large intimidating portrait.
“She is beautiful.” Joshua sighed. Lance hummed. 
“What do you see?”
Joshua scoffed and chuckled. “Well father clearly had some talent. They are quite alike.“ He looked between the portrait and the sketches. Lance took a step back, still humming and rubbing his chin in thought.
“What do you not see?”
For a moment Joshua looked perplexed back at Lance, who only smiled back. Now with a target in his mind, he looked down at the pages once more. Trying to look for clues, turning the pages carefully, looking up at the portrait every other moment for comparison, only to gasp. 
“It is you!” 
Joshua gripped the book together holding it up to his face, and Lance smiled. 
“It was always you.” Joshua said. “He courted you.” 
He looked to Lance for guidance, and Lance walked over, placing his arm around his son. “He never stopped.”
Now it was Joshua's turn to sputter confused but also amazed.  
“But how?” They sat down together.
“Your grandmother was not a very nice person. And as you have been told many times before, my sister was sick. I was her replacement to secure her income so my mama could live a leisure life filled with luxury and pleasure, while her children worked themself thin. 
I was just one of the sacrifices on that list.”
Joshua's eyes grew round and innocent. Lanced sighed dramatically and leaned into his side, making the young man chuckle and push him back, too used to Lance’s dramatics. 
“But I had just never imagined your father falling in love with me, nor him.“ 
Lance placed a hand on his son’s head, and pushed the hair from his face.  
“Your father loved your mother very much, and you are indeed a love child, believe it or not. But their marriage was of convenience rather than love.“ Lance could see the doubt still in Joshua's eyes.  
“After they were married, your father convinced me to come live with them. I have been your father’s partner and spouse ever since. And yes in some ways, I have been the Lady Kogane, long before I took the name.“ He played with the hair near Joshua's ear. Looking at the boy he raised who was now a man. He gripped his shoulders.
“Your mother loved you. You were her one true love.” Lance's eyes were intense as they dark orbs that stared back.
“I want you to think about what I said. You do not have to choose a bride, because it was required of you. Choose from your heart.”
Joshua sighed, gripping his father’s hand on his shoulder. 
“My duty requires an heir. What if I choose a bride that can not provide any.“ He said solemnly.
Lance leaned back against the wall unbothered.
“Then adopt, if that is a great matter to you.”  
“It would not be true blood.”
“Like you are not true blood of mine.” Lance added, making Joshua gasp in dismay. 
“You are my papa!” He said steadfastly, leaving no room for arguments.  
“Not by your standards.”
Joshua shook his head furiously, his words becoming quick and hasted. 
“That was thoughtless of me… I did not think… I did not mean too…”
Lance barked out a laugh, ruffling up his hair.
“You are forgiven my son.”

They sat for a moment staring up at the portrait. Lance hummed, and he could feel Joshua’s eyes on him.
“Just choose with your heart. You do not have to suffer the same fate as your mother.”
Joshua grew more quiet, like he was sinking into his seat at the bench. 
“Maybe even Adwina….” Lance spoke softly, a hint of a smirk on its way.
His remark finally cracked open his son's composure, and the young man curled in on himself, his face flushed at the mention of the girl, groaning into his hands.
“But father hates her papa.” 
“He will get over it.” Assured Lance him, even as Joshua’s feet fretted. He forced him to look at him. 
“You love her, and I am sure Miss Josefine is a wonderful woman, but maybe not for you.“ 
Joshua blew out a long breath, finally giving into Lance’s reasoning and his own very obvious feelings. Feelings that had been growing all his life, that had started as puppy love then grew into something else entirely. 
“I guess you are correct.”
Lance poked Joshua in the nose. 
“Do not choose her because I insisted. Choose with your heart.“ Lance twirled his fingers, while Joshua bit his lip in deep thought, while his face grew darker.
“And your heart?” 
Joshua’s face betrayed him with the scarlet flush.
“Have always belonged to only one.“ He said, embarrassed with the confession.  
Lance grabbed his neck and pulled him in close to kiss his forehead. 
“Good boy.” 

Lance gave his husband of over 20 years a subtle push in the side to encourage him to smile as they stood to the great Duke Lotor. Allura rolled her eyes beside them, completely abhorred by her own husband, as Duke Lotor blotted his fangs in what was surely meant to resemble a smile. Lance decided the matter was fruitless and smiled instead at Allura. They both ignored the growling men, to embrace and share hidden glances behind them where their children sat next to each other. Joshua and Adwina smiled infatuated with each other over their wedding feast. Their guests milled around them in merriment. Joshua’s best friend and Adwida elder brother Zachariah, heir and son to Duke Lotor, were toasting to their future happiness and marriage bliss.
Despite their children marrying, forever allying to two the great houses of Kogane and Zarkon together, the two men still acted like petulant children, much to their spouses despair.
Some things will never change, Lance supposed.