Work Text:
It was a peaceful evening at Sinclair Manor, bathed in the soft golden glow of twilight. The two men were dining together, laughing and sharing stories, when suddenly, a scream pierced the air. Lauren burst into the dining room, panicked, her golden eyes wide with terror and confusion.
“Unc… Uncle Tristan! Dakan!” she sobbed, a dark stain spreading across her white dress. “There’s blood!”
A cold shiver ran down Tristan’s spine, and his face turned pale. A sudden panic gripped him, his thoughts swirling in deep concern. He immediately imagined the worst, fearing that a predator had dared to harm their precious little Ren. Dakan, equally distraught, tried to maintain a semblance of calm, though his heart pounded frantically in his chest.
A veil of terror fell over Tristan’s face, his eyes filling with fear, and he quickly rose and knelt beside the young girl, quickly followed by Dakan. “What happened, Lauren? Did someone hurt you?” he asked in a rushed voice.
Dakan, attempting to stay calm, added, “We’re going to help you, don’t worry.” Then he turned to Tristan before continuing, “We need to take her to the hospital right away.”
Lucy, who had been in the kitchen, rushed in immediately, drawn by the noise. With a quick glance, she understood the situation. Without wasting a moment, she took Lauren by the hand and guided her to the bathroom, leaving the two men in utter confusion.
“Calm down, gentlemen,” murmured Lucy in a soothing voice as she passed by them, then she closed the door behind her, leaving them alone in the living room, the anxiety palpable in the air.
The two men looked at each other, torn between worry for Lauren and the mystery of what was happening. Tristan couldn’t help but think the worst, his throat tight with anxiety. “Dakan, what could have happened to her? Could an intruder have come in to attack her? But how? How could someone enter here without us noticing?”
Dakan shook his head, trying to calm his lover but also to reassure himself. “I don’t know, Tristan, but we need to stay calm. Lucy is there, and she seems to know how to handle this.”
Meanwhile, in the dimly lit bathroom illuminated by chandeliers, Lucy and Lauren stood near a large porcelain sink. Lauren, still crying and visibly scared, looked at Lucy with palpable anxiety. Lucy, though calm, knew that this conversation would be delicate but necessary.
Lucy took a deep breath and began gently. “Miss Lauren, what is happening to you is completely natural. It’s what we call menstruation.”
Lauren furrowed her brows, wiping a tear from her cheek. “Menstruation? What is that, Lucy? Why is this happening to me?”
Lucy crouched slightly to be at Lauren’s level, her gaze full of compassion. “Menstruation, my dear, is a normal part of growing up for a young woman. It’s a sign that your body is beginning to prepare, one day, to become an adult woman capable of having children.”
Lauren, still perplexed, shook her head. “But why does it hurt? Why am I bleeding?”
Lucy gently took Lauren’s hand. “I know it can seem scary and painful, but it’s a natural process. Every month, your body will go through these changes. The bleeding comes from inside your body, but it’s something all women go through. In time, you’ll get used to it.”
Lauren seemed to ponder these words, her golden eyes searching for answers in Lucy’s soothing gaze. “Will this always happen? Does it mean I’m sick?”
Lucy smiled softly. “No, you’re not sick, Lauren. It’s simply a part of a woman’s life. This will happen about once a month. But don’t worry, there are ways to manage it, and I’ll help you understand everything.”
Lauren slowly nodded, beginning to accept this new reality. “And... what do I do now?”
Lucy stood and fetched clean linens and appropriate clothing. “We’ll make sure you’re comfortable. There are special cloths to absorb the blood. I’ll show you how to use them and how to take care of yourself during this time.”
Lauren took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “Thank you, Lucy. I was so scared…”
Lucy ran a reassuring hand through Lauren’s red hair. “I know, my dear. But remember, you’re not alone. Every woman in the world goes through this. It’s part of what makes us strong and resilient.”
Lauren smiled slightly, feeling a bit braver. “Thank you, Lucy. I’m glad you’re here to explain all this to me.”
Lucy kissed Lauren’s forehead tenderly. “I’ll always be here for you, my dear. Now, let’s take care of you, and then we can join Tristan and Dakan. They’re probably very worried.”
///
Back in the living room, Tristan and Dakan waited anxiously, searching for answers. Tristan paced back and forth while Dakan bit his nails, keeping an eye on his partner. Finally, Lucy returned with Lauren, who was now a bit less frightened. She took a deep breath and began gently explaining the details of a first period, knowing her employers likely had no knowledge of this.
“First periods are a normal part of every young woman’s life,” Lucy said. “It’s a sign that Lauren is growing up, and it’s something all women go through. Mr. Tristan, Mr. Dakan, you need to be there for her, support her, and reassure her.”
The two men listened attentively, absorbing every word, recognizing they had much to learn in their roles as guardians and protectors of Lauren. They were embarrassed to know so little about women that even something common was unknown to them. They looked at each other and promised to research and learn how to best help Lauren.
///
As the weeks passed, Lauren began experiencing the many upheavals that puberty brings. Her body was transforming, and with each change, her anxiety grew. She looked at herself in the mirror, trying to understand these alterations that seemed to come out of nowhere. The little girl she had been was disappearing, and an adolescent was gradually emerging, though psychologically, after all she had been through, she had already left childhood behind.
One evening, as she sat alone in her room, tears of frustration in her eyes, she decided to share her concerns with her guardians. They had already gone through so much together, and she felt safe with them.
She knocked gently on their bedroom door, and Tristan invited her in. “What’s wrong, my dear?” he asked softly.
Lauren sat on the edge of the bed next to Dakan, who put his book on the bedside table, hesitant. “I... I don’t understand everything that’s happening to me. My body is changing, and it scares me. I don’t understand all that’s going on.”
As Lauren shared her concerns with Tristan and Dakan, the anxiety was palpable in the room. The two men looked at each other, clearly at a loss facing this important stage in Lauren’s life, as they had no experience with women, let alone with teenage girls going through puberty.
Tristan ran a hand through his hair, a gesture he often made when troubled. “I... I don’t really know what to tell you, Ren. It’s a subject we don’t know well.”
Dakan nodded, his jade-green eyes expressing his worry. “Lauren, we’re here for you, but it’s true we’re a bit lost. Maybe we should ask for help from someone who knows better how to guide you through all this.”
Lauren felt overwhelmed by uncertainty and fear, and she looked to her guardians for comfort. Tristan put his hand on her shoulder, trying to reassure her. “We’ll find a solution, Lauren, don’t worry.”
Dakan, searching for the right words to express his support, added, “We might be novices when it comes to female puberty, but we’re here for you, no matter what. I think I know who we can ask for help.” He got up, kissed his goddaughter’s head, squeezed his partner’s hand reassuringly, and left the room.
“Uncle Tristan, do you know who Dakan is going to ask for help?” Lauren asked in a small voice, looking at her uncle with hope.
Tristan sat on the bed and hugged her before responding, “I think he’s going to ask Lucy. She’s the person we trust the most and who knows about women. Don’t worry, we’ll find solutions, we’ll help you, Ren.”
A few minutes later, Dakan returned with Lucy. Lucy, who always stood by, sensed the confusion and worry of the two men and the young teenager. She understood that this was the moment to offer her help and advice. Dakan had explained the situation a bit to her, and she was eager to help this family that had already gone through so much. “Gentlemen, I can help you understand what Lauren is going through right now. It’s a delicate time for her, and it’s important that you be there to support her.”
Tristan and Dakan exchanged a grateful look toward Lucy. They knew her experience and understanding of femininity would be invaluable in this situation. Tristan spoke up, sharing their decision. “Lucy, we need your help to guide Lauren through this period. Can you guide us and give us advice to better understand what she’s going through?” He had already planned to increase the housekeeper's pay in gratitude for all the help she was giving them.
Lucy nodded with a kind smile. “Of course, gentlemen. I’ll be here to help you navigate this transitional period for Lauren. We’ll all learn together and support Lauren as best we can.”
Lauren felt a bit relieved seeing Tristan, Dakan, and Lucy’s commitment to helping her through this phase of her life. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she was grateful to have a loving and dedicated family by her side. With Lucy as a guide and the two men ready to learn, they would do everything possible to make Lauren feel understood, supported, and loved throughout this delicate transition into adolescence.
///
Lauren was growing up quickly, and with her growth, it was time to address more specific issues regarding her education as a young noblewoman. Tristan and Dakan realized they were ignorant in this area, and they felt an urgent need to find answers to help Lauren acquire the specific manners befitting a lady of her status. Although they were nobles and knew etiquette and court rules, they had discovered that manners for women were different.
One afternoon, while they were in the house library, Tristan flipped through an old book on aristocratic etiquette and manners for women. His eyebrows furrowed as he read complex and outdated passages. He would have preferred to face the administrative and legal systems a thousand times over than read this. "Dakan, these manuals are maddeningly complicated. How are we going to learn all this and then teach it to Lauren?"
Dakan, sitting next to Tristan, sighed in exasperation as he closed another similar book. "I have no idea, Tristan. We definitely need help."
At that moment, Lucy entered the library, always there at the right time, drawn by their conversation. She noticed their frustration and approached them. "What’s going on, gentlemen?"
Tristan looked up from his book with a sigh of relief at the sight of her. "Lucy, we’re lost. We’re trying to understand how to teach Lauren the specific manners of a young noblewoman, but these books are from another world and another time. We don’t know where to start; there’s so much."
Lucy smiled, understanding their dilemma. "I can help you with that. It’s true that these old manuals are often complicated. To start, we can organize lessons on etiquette, dancing, and other aspects of noble life. I can also find more modern books that simplify these teachings."
The two men sighed in unison, grateful to have Lucy by their side. "Thank you, Lucy. You really are our guardian angel in all this," said Tristan with a grateful smile, knowing he would give her another raise.
Dakan added, "We want Lauren to be well-prepared for her future, and with you to guide us, we’re sure she’ll be in good hands."
Lucy humbly accepted their gratitude. "I’m happy to help, gentlemen. Together, we’ll make sure Lauren is well-educated and ready to face the challenges that await her as a young noblewoman."
The three of them spent long hours in the library, searching for more modern books that addressed the specific manners of a young noblewoman. Lucy proved to be an expert in finding and selecting the appropriate resources, locating more accessible texts and practical guides.
Tristan watched with an admiring smile as Lucy moved through the shelves with ease, pulling out promising books. "Lucy, you seem to know this library better than we do. It’s impressive."
Lucy looked up from her search with a modest smile. "I’ve had the privilege of working here for many years, Mr. Tristan. I’m happy to use my knowledge to help Lauren."
Dakan nodded, grateful. "We’re really lucky to have you with us, Lucy."
After selecting several suitable books, Lucy proposed starting etiquette and dance lessons with Lauren. "We should start slowly, teaching her the basics. With time and practice, she’ll master these skills."
The lessons began, with Lucy guiding Lauren through the subtleties of etiquette and the graceful movements of dance. The two men watched attentively, ready to support Lauren in her learning.
When Lauren made a slight mistake during a particularly complex dance, Tristan smiled and approached her. "It’s normal to make mistakes, my dear. The important thing is to learn and improve with each lesson. You should have seen how your father was a public hazard when he danced."
Dakan reinforced these words with a reassuring tone. "Exactly, Lauren. No one becomes an expert overnight. We’re proud of you for all the hard work you’re doing."
Lucy joined in their encouragement. "You’re on the right track, Lauren. Keep practicing and training, and you’ll become an exceptional young noblewoman."
Over time, Lauren made progress thanks to the teaching and support of her loved ones. They knew this special education was essential for her future as a young noblewoman, and they were determined to give her all the skills and confidence she needed to succeed. With the love of her family and Lucy’s expertise, Lauren was on the path to becoming a well-educated and graceful person, ready to face the challenges of noble life that awaited her.
///
The grand living room of the Sinclair manor house was transformed into an improvised dance hall for Lauren's dance lesson. The curtains were drawn to soften the sunlight, and soft, melodious music filled the room. Lauren, dressed in an elegant dance dress, stood in the center, ready to begin her lesson.
Lucy, with her professional demeanor, guided Lauren through the complex dance movements. However, she noticed that Lauren seemed a bit distracted, occasionally lacking concentration.
"Lauren, you're really talented, but I think you could benefit from having a partner for this lesson," suggested Lucy.
Lauren looked at her curiously. "A partner? Who?"
Lucy smiled and gestured towards the two spectators, who were seated at the back of the room, observing attentively. "Well, since you two know how to dance, one of you could be an ideal partner for Lauren today."
The two men exchanged a surprised glance, realizing they were being challenged to demonstrate their dancing skills. However, they were ready to do anything to help Lauren improve. They had practiced dancing together many times, as lovers, but the prospect of dancing with Lauren, as a young woman in training, was new to them. Nevertheless, Dakan nodded towards Tristan, silently encouraging him to accept.
Tristan, feeling a bit nervous but determined to help Lauren, stood up. "Alright, I'll be your partner for this lesson, Lauren."
Lauren, excited at the idea of dancing with her uncle, gave him a radiant smile. "Thank you, Uncle Tristan."
Lucy explained the dance steps to follow, while Tristan mentally prepared himself for this new challenge. When the music started, he gently placed his hand on Lauren's waist, while she placed her hand in his.
The dance hall was filled with an elegant and soft ambiance as Lauren and Tristan stood in the center, ready to begin their lesson. The music rose, enveloping the room with its graceful melodies.
Lucy, observing with an expert eye, began to guide the uncle and niece through the dance steps. At first, Tristan was stiff in his movements, conscious of every step, striving to be precise.
However, as the dance progressed, something magical happened. Tristan gradually relaxed, letting the music guide him, and Lauren followed his lead, her natural grace slowly emerging. Their movements synchronized, creating a fluid and elegant dance.
Dakan, watching their performance from the corner of the room, felt proud to see how much Tristan and Lauren were enjoying themselves and progressing in their dance. It was clear that Tristan had found his place as Lauren's dance partner. He was impressed by how quickly Tristan had learned to be an excellent dance partner for Lauren. The two men had often danced together, but this was the first time Tristan danced with a young woman, and he was doing wonderfully.
Lauren was swept away by the dance, her eyes shining with excitement and joy. She let Tristan guide her with confidence, each step becoming an expression of their special connection as a family.
At the end of the lesson, Lauren was radiant and breathless. She looked at Tristan with sincere gratitude. "That was great, Uncle Tristan. You’re an excellent dance partner!"
Tristan smiled and responded tenderly before gently embracing her, "Thank you, Lauren. It was a pleasure dancing with you. You’re a wonderful dancer."
Dakan approached, proud of his companion and his goddaughter. He placed a hand on Tristan's shoulder and said warmly, "You were fantastic, Tristan. And you too, Lauren, you learned very quickly. I’m proud of both of you. You’re going to dazzle everyone at those social events."
Lauren felt the support and love of her family, and she was grateful to have such dedicated mentors to help her grow and learn. This dance lesson had been much more than just learning the steps; it was an opportunity to strengthen family bonds and create precious memories together. The dance lessons continued, with Tristan and Dakan ready to be Lauren's partners whenever needed, reinforcing their commitment to help her grow and thrive in her life as a young noblewoman.
///
One day, an influential noble from the city arrived at the Sinclair residence. He was accompanied by his son, a young man of noble birth, well-dressed and bearing a serious expression. Dakan and Tristan were somewhat surprised by this unexpected visit, but they welcomed their guests courteously.
After the customary greetings, the noble spoke in a formal tone. "Gentlemen, I have come to discuss an important matter. I would like to propose a marriage between your niece, Lauren, and my son."
Tristan and Dakan exchanged a look of disbelief. The idea of marrying Lauren off without her prior consent shocked them deeply. They had certainly heard of arranged marriages among noble families, but they had never considered that this might apply to Lauren.
Tristan spoke up, his voice firm. "Sir, we appreciate your interest, but such a decision must take into account Lauren's feelings and happiness. She must have a say in this matter."
Dakan nodded, supporting his companion's words. "We want, above all, for Lauren to be happy in her future life, regardless of her rank or gender. We cannot accept a marriage proposal without her consent. She will marry whom she chooses."
The noble seemed somewhat surprised by their response, perhaps assuming that his family's status would be enough to ensure the acceptance of his proposal. However, Tristan and Dakan were determined to protect little Ren's rights and will.
Tristan added with determination, "We will always stand by Lauren to support her choices and decisions. If she ever wishes to marry, we will support her wholeheartedly. But it is imperative that she be able to choose her own destiny."
The noble, increasingly irritated by the men's resistance, could not contain his indignation at their categorical refusal of his marriage proposal. He firmly believed in the tradition of arranged marriages among noble families and saw their attitude as a violation of the established order.
He narrowed his eyes, indignation evident in his voice. "Gentlemen, I am dismayed by your refusal. Two men who already do not respect the natural order of things cannot be good guardians for a young noblewoman. You are endangering her future and reputation by refusing this opportunity."
Tristan and Dakan, who had already shown patience and courtesy, began to feel irritated by these offensive remarks. Tristan clenched his fists to hold back from expressing his true thoughts to these ruffians. Dakan noticed the tension emanating from his companion, squeezed his fist, and then, once Tristan had unclenched his hand, intertwined his fingers with his. They were determined to protect Lauren and defend her right to choose her own destiny.
Dakan spoke in a firm tone, his icy gaze fixed on the noble before him. "Sir, our priority is Lauren's well-being and happiness. We will not tolerate her life being decided without her consent. You are free to think what you want, but we will not change our minds."
Tristan reinforced these words with a resolute look. "We ask you to leave our property. We do not want to continue this discussion."
The noble and his son, seeing the absence of compromise from Tristan and Dakan, felt forced to leave. They departed the residence with bitterness, unable to understand the two men's determination to protect Lauren by refusing a marriage that would ensure her a superb future.
Once the unwanted guests had finally left, the two men were alone. Dakan wrapped his arms around his companion's torso to calm himself but also to help Tristan regain his composure. They stayed like that for a moment, embraced. Dakan broke the silence, "We will always be there for Lauren. We will support her in all her decisions and ensure that she can choose her own path in life. We may not be the best guardians Lauren could have, but we will do our best."
Tristan nodded and then declared lovingly, "She won't have to submit to all those damned rules imposed by high society. She will be able to live freely, as her parents would have wanted. It's not as if Alexander and Rachel were the ones who most respected protocols." The two men looked at each other with love and determination before embracing again.
Lauren, who had listened to the conversation from the shadow of the stair railing, felt grateful to her uncles for their firmness and support. She knew she had a family that would protect her and allow her to decide her own future, and this brought her great inner peace. She couldn't dream of better godfathers.