Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The rain was hitting against the glass of the office. 4 more minutes and he can escape this hell hole he calls work. Andrew rubs a hand over his face, tired. All he wanted was to write. To write and to make his articles hit, but his boss doesn’t acknowledge his efforts, not to mention, his dad is already so disappointed in him for choosing journalism, something that isn’t quite manly to his father’s standards.

Andrew cracks his knuckles as he’s hunched over his desk and typing out some emails and extra work Margaret assigned to him.

Just 2 more minutes and I’ll go home with ease. He thought to himself as he timed his clock.

The loud beep rang out the quiet and empty office, it was time to clock out. Slamming a hand, he saved his document and turned off everything that needed to be off, and his only goal right now? Go home. He wore his suit jacket again and with his messenger bag on, he’s off.

The rain died down after a while, which was great since he forgot his umbrella at his apartment, and he was gonna hail a cab anyway. However, his plans were foiled as he failed to hail a cab, subways were down, and it was starting to rain once more. “Fuck my life. Just what I needed.” Andrew grumbled as he used his bag to shield his head.

He would need to walk the Brooklyn bridge to get home. How convenient… Why did he choose an apartment far from his work? He swore he was gonna move once he got enough money to locate to a nearer area.

He was brisk walking, thankfully, the walk from his work place was near the Brooklyn bridge. Maybe, if the cabs were merciful tonight, he would be able to hail a cab, but the streets were busy, busy with personal cars. The rain was pouring down onto him, it was useless if he was gonna shield his head with his bag, he can't risk his documents being wet and broken. He just can’t. Just his luck. He was gonna get sick tomorrow, and Margaret would freak out without her beloved secretary..

Whatever. He committed to this already.. But it was starting to get strange when other people with cars were gasping and other people were pointing to a man on the Brooklyn bridge. None of them were doing jack shit, none of them were doing anything to stop the man from suicide. So, Andrew, wanting to be a decent human being, and to help anyone in need, he climbed up the bridge while screaming.

“Hey man! Stop!” He says. The man gets startled in his trance. “Dude! Go away! Don’t stop me! It’s okay!” He reassures. “It’s okay my ass! You’re about to jump!” He manages to get up the slippery bridge, walking to the man. “My name is Stuart, and I found a way to time travel, this is literally a yolo experience! You don’t need to…” Stuart, however, shook his head and took the leap. “Stuart! Wait!” Andrew did manage to catch him by the hand, but with how slippery the metal was, he lost his grip onto the metal and they both fell.

Andrew’s heart plummeted, and quite literally accepted his fate already, he expected to die right then and there with some random guy, but no.

When he woke up, he felt water droplets hit his skin, stone underneath his fingertips. He groaned, his arm ached. It must be bruised. He was in an empty street. Rain was still pouring, but the setting of where he was was just like New York, except its… Old? It looks old.. Is he dead? “What the fuck…” Andrew muttered out to himself, a hand on his head, mind throbbing from the fall, he felt nauseous. His breathing grew shaky, brows furrowed in confusion. What the fuck was happening? Andrew groaned trying to pick up his weight from the floor, wandering the streets of Old New York.. This wasn’t the New York he knew– Well, He was aware this was New York, but that was THEN. There was no way any of this was real. No way this is real. He’s dead, falling from that height, he’s supposed to be dead.

So, like a pitiful, stray puppy, Andrew walked around New York mindlessly, away from the unfinished Brooklyn bridge. The thunder clapped as he walked, it was quiet, cold, and ominous. There’s no way this was a dream, so he must be dead. The cobblestone streets under his feet, he was trying so hard not to slip and fall, but it was almost hard. He wanted to run away and scream for help, but if he did, maybe people would call him weird and send him to the police… But at the same time, what if none of this was real? Was any of this real? It confused Andrew to death.

But since his mind was racing, he didn’t notice that he had tripped. It’s only when he was nearly face to face with the floor.

… A hand.

Andrew felt a hand on his arm. “Mind your step, good sir!” A British voice speaks out with such class, it felt almost disrespectful to look at him or even share the same air as him. “Sorry! Sorry.” Andrew says, picking himself up, and looking behind him to see… A rather charming man behind him. He was around the same height as him, so it wasn’t fully a hassle to look at him. “Um..” Soon enough, the Rain stopped under him, the man had placed an umbrella over them. “My, what are you doing so late at night? Out in the pouring rain as well? Poor guy, you are soaking.” He sighs. “Do you have a place to stay for the night?” He asks and Andrew could only sit and stare at the man with his mouth agape.

“Well? Can’t keep your mouth open, a fly will enter and find refuge there.” The man jokes and Andrew just looks around. “Actually?” He starts. “I do not. Remind me, what year is it?” Andrew asks. “My, it is 1876, my friend. Have you hit your head too hard before walking?” He tilts his head and Andrew nods. He’s gonna pinch himself later, for now, focus on finding refuge and getting back. “Uhm… I do not have a place to stay.. I lost my friend and uhm.. Yeah.” Andrew shakes his head. “Well, I can offer you refuge at my estate if you would like.” if Andrew had a drink in his mouth, he would spit it out. His eyes widened. “What? Really? That fast?” The man chuckles. “Well, I am no heartless man, I was raised to be a gentleman not only to ladies but to the men as well. It’s common courtesy to be respectful.” He grinned and offered his hand towards Andrew. “I am Leopold Alexis Elijah Walker Thomas Gareth Mountbatten.. But please, refer me to Leopold. Third Duke of Albany.” Leopold smiles.

...Andrew was awestricken. If his history classes paid off, Leopold was the one who made the first elevator… the one who was responsible for making almost everyone’s lives easier.. Andrew blinks and stammers quite a bit. “I uh…” Out of Courtesy, he takes Leopold’s hand and shakes it. “Im… Andrew… Just… Andrew Paxton.” He blinks. From what he remembers, Leopold did not look like the fucking wolverine in his books. Yet, here we were. He was the epitome of soft masculinity and to Andrew, that attracted him. If he had to admit, he was cute, but who was Andrew kidding? They’d publicly execute him for even trying to pursue the man before him. It was just a silly thought that he quickly discarded. “Andrew. Well, Andrew, Follow closely, I wouldn’t want you to catch a cold..” Leopold starts to walk against the cobble. “Come, come. My home is a short distance away.” He smiles and Andrew just hesitantly follows like a lost puppy following a man who just fed it food.

Andrew didn’t know what’s in store for him, but that Stuart guy must be right about that whole time thing and accidentally dragged him in there… So his new mission after the storm dies? Find that Stuart guy and get home before Margaret reigns hell in the office.

Chapter Text

“Your grace, your bath is ready.” A servant speaks out, and Leopold, pencil in hand, pauses his prior activities. With his signature warm smile he nods and places his pencil on his desk. Sketching out a draft of an invention. “Thank you, Marie.” He thanks and walks to his bathroom. Once arriving, he quickly but carefully removed the layers of his clothes.

Coat,

Vest,

Tie,

Polo,

And his shirt.

Soon enough, he was fully exposed and slowly dipped his feet into the tub before sinking in. Letting the warm water lap at his skin. Leopold’s mind was never at ease. Not that it was filled with negative thoughts, but more of wonder, curiosity… And ideas. He could not stop himself from drawing, creating, drawing whatever was on his mind. All of that drawing, and yet, he had no muse.

However, that wasn’t the problem. His uncle wanted him to marry into a rich family because after the death of his parents, money had been tight. Leopold didn’t want to marry anyone. Not yet, at least. None of the women interested him, he never felt drawn, but he felt so pressured to marry someone.

Leopold sighed and dipped his head further in the tub’s water. He can only dream that his uncle would be considerate… And that the people around him in general could be considerate to him. Maybe, if he invented something that would help people… He wouldn’t have to suffer with his uncle’s constant nagging for marriage. Maybe, people would look past the fact he doesn’t want to marry yet.

The rain poured softly on Leopold’s roof. It was pouring, a lot of things on his mind, the negative mixing with the positive. He was just there, sitting and soaking himself in the bath until his water grew cold. He was gonna go for a walk and he’s sure of it. He didn’t mind going out in a little bit of rain. It didn’t scare him.

After his shower, however, he chose to dress like he was going out and made sure he looked great either way. He knew people would be off the streets by now, but he just wanted to look well groomed, just ‘cause.

However, just as he was about to leave, a voice boomed from above. “You are going out. It better be because you found someone to marry.” His uncle stated. Leopold’s shoulders dropped. “I assure you I will find someone to pursue. No need to worry, for now, I am just clearing my mind. That’s all.” Leopold answered in a tired, yet polite tone. He was annoyed, yes, but that was his uncle he was talking to. Silence rang. “Just be back before the storm intensifies. It is pouring cats and dogs.” His uncle spoke out before closing the door. Leopold sighed. He had to remember that he couldn’t afford to be sad about that since there were others who have suffered more than him and he’s privileged to have been born a Duke.

Without hesitation, he got the umbrella and unfolded it, before he got out. Placing himself under it, he began to walk the streets, seeing the lights flicker or stay lit as he walked along the cobblestone. The road was slippery, Leopold had to admit, however that didn’t stop him from going out on a walk. Umbrella in hand, he turned the corners and continued to walk mindlessly.

However, in the corner of his eye, he saw a man mindlessly walk beside him. Weird. He had no umbrella with him and was already soaking. He stared at the man with the intention of just finding it weird he did not bring an umbrella, however, he saw the man trip over nothing and… Almost fell.

Good thing Leopold rushed to help him up quickly.

“Mind your step, good sir!” Leopold exclaims and watches the man help himself up. “Sorry! Sorry.” He apologised. The man behind him was as tall as him. Finally, Leopold finally found someone who was practically the same height… No more hassle of looking down. “Um…” The man says quietly, but Leopold paid no mind and felt bad for the man. He had no umbrella. So being a decent person, He shuffled closer to the man and placed the umbrella under both of them. He couldn’t stop himself from commenting, “My, what are you doing so late at night? Out in the pouring rain as well? Poor guy, you are soaking.” Leopold shook his head and watched the expressions of the man carefully. He looked scared and confused. Almost as if it was like he had received no kind actions in his life ever. “Do you have a place to stay for the night?” Leopold asks, only to be met with Andrew leaving his mouth agape. Leopold, finding it a bit odd, decided to just conclude he was drunk and had no idea where he was.

“Well? Can’t keep your mouth open, a fly will enter and find refuge there.” He chuckles at his own joke, only to find the man chuckling to it as well. “Actually?... I do not. Remind me, what year is it?” The man asks, and Leopold only blinks. “My, it’s 1876, my friend. Have you hit your head too hard before walking?” Leopold tilts his head and sees him nod. “Uhm… I do not have a place to stay.. I lost my friend and uhm.. Yeah.” He replies rather nervously and unsure of himself, but Leopold lets it go. “Well, I can offer you refuge at my estate if you would like.” Leopold offered like it was nothing. Almost as if he did not learn his lesson on stranger danger. “What? Really? That fast?” The man asks, almost not believing this was real. “Well, I am no heartless man, I was raised to be a gentleman not only to ladies but to the men as well. It’s common courtesy to be respectful.” Leopold smiles before offering his hand towards the man. “I am Leopold Alexis Elijah Walker Thomas Gareth Mountbatten.. But please, refer me to Leopold. Third Duke of Albany.” His smile was charming, it’d get anyone instantly hooked. Maybe his charm worked on the man since he did stammer a lot, was more nervous, but Leopold doesn’t know for sure. There was an awkward silence before he finally answered. “I uh..” He stammered out. The man took Leopold’s hand in his and shook it back in a firm shake, something to further prove that he wasn’t drunk, but sober.. And genuinely lost. “Im… Andrew… Just… Andrew Paxton.”

Andrew.

It was a nice name for Leopold. “Andrew.” he let the name roll off his tongue with ease. “Well, Andrew, Follow closely, I wouldn’t want you to catch a cold..” Leopold starts to walk against the cobble. “Come, come. My home is a short distance away.” He smiles and Andrew just hesitantly follows like a lost puppy following a man who just fed it food.

However, once they arrived back, Andrew and Leopold were greeted with Leopold’s servants. “Ah! Gerald.. Could you be a dear and prepare the guest bedroom and draw a bath for my guest, Andrew?” Leopold asks, and his servant could nod and bow, before retreating upstairs to ready the room. “Leopold, if you’re a duke, why are you in New york? Why aren’t you in… Like… London?” Andrew asks and Leopold just nods. “Well, due to some problems, my uncle decided we should move to New York.” Andrew nodded, not wanting to delve into personal details as he just met Leopold a few minutes ago. He watched as Leopold folded his umbrella and placed it back to its stand. “I see. Do you like it here?” Andrew asks, once more. Leopold only shrugs. “I'm split. But I lean toward liking it here.” He smiles, looking at Andrew with his smile.

“Are you a resident here?” Leopold suddenly asks, breaking the silence. Andrew shakes his head. “Uhm.. I am… From…” He needed an excuse. A quick excuse. “I am from.. The countryside— Yes, I am. Uhm.. I only visited because my friend offered me an opportunity to start a new life… And uhm… Uh… Fuck– Uhm…” Andrew stammered out. It was odd for Leopold, however, he made no comment about it. “My friend encouraged me to start journaling here about the uh… Brooklyn bridge! Yes! The Brooklyn bridge. Yes. We drank to celebrate and such, however… Uhm… Like– My friend abandoned me and I have no place to stay, so there’s that.” Andrew lied through his teeth, it was so obvious from how much he stammered and stuttered over his words, but Leopold seemed to buy it as he nodded.

“My grace, the bath has been drawn and the bedroom is ready.” Leopold smiles and nods. “Andrew, Gerald will assist you to the bedroom. I wouldn’t want you catching a cold.” He nods, hands behind his back, trying to look respectful. “Ah.. uhm, okay.” Andrew nods and follows.. Gerald to his room.

“Sir, shall I help you undress?” Andrew blinks and shakes his head. “No, I’m fine. Thank you though.” Andrew was hesitant to let another man undress him casually. Was this what Leopold had to go through? Nonetheless, the servant blinks and nods. “Well, Sleepwear should be in the closet. I will leave you to it. Good night, sir.” Gerald bows and Leaves the bathroom, leaving Andrew alone with his thoughts.

Great, his thoughts.

Andrew undressed himself, the soaking clothes were in a pile on a handle, the clothes dripping as he had plans of it drying off.

Now’s the time he can pinch himself.

“Ow!” Andrew exclaims.

It was real.

This wasn’t anything fake, no, no. It was real.

He wasn’t dead nor was he dreaming. This was real. He got into the tub and was just shocked. How is it possible to even travel back in time? God, if he hadn’t played hero, he wouldn’t be here. But then again, he wouldn’t want an actual person ending their life early on from better opportunities in life. Andrew just soaked in the warm water. Still shocked. What’s worse is that he couldn’t find that Stuart guy. How could he? He had no phone, he had no idea where the damn guy would be, he could be anywhere in New York, and it’s a huge place! How the hell could Andrew find a guy like that?

…Whatever, he’ll worry about it tomorrow.. For now, he’s gotta sleep. He will sleep and worry about it… Later. After taking a proper shower, he got out and got ready… Opening the said closet and seeing clothes ready for him.

It was weird, being in another time period, 200 years ago? Who wouldn’t be weirded out. What was funny, though, Leopold was practically also 200 years old. Just like the Wolverine. It was funny enough he looked like him, but cleaner and less rugged. But whatever. Andrew just met him.

Andrew sat in the bed of the guest room. For some reason it felt like he also lived in this estate with how soft and huge the bed was, it was enough to fit two people, he felt bad since it was just him and him alone.

But it was warm, soft… And slowly… Andrew drifted off to sleep.

“Sir?” The light bled through the curtains. Andrew groaned as he slowly stirred awake. “Yeah?” He croaked out. “His grace is inviting you to breakfast. He would love it if you would join him.” Andrew, however, with his eyes stuck together, he nodded and sat up slowly. “Yeah, yeah. Tell Leopold I'll be there in a bit.” Andrew answered groggily. “Well, would you like a change of clothes?” The lady asks. “Change of clothes?” Andrew paused. “Uh… Uh– Yeah… Okay… Sure.” he answered as he sat in bed, the lady nodding and going out of his room to give him privacy and to fetch him a new set of clothes for the day.

Andrew sat in his bed, flabbergasted at the fact that he even woke up again. He expected his alarm to ring, he expected to wake up in his office or wake up in his apartment, but no. Still in the same room, living in the same air of luxury. With a frustrated sigh, he got out of bed to start his routine.

Brushing teeth, washing his face, staring at the mirror, disappointed in life choices.. Yeah.

“Sir, your clothes are out on the bed. Would you prefer assistance?” Andrew peeked out of the bathroom’s door and shook his head. “No! I’m fine. I’ll figure it out. Don’t stress it.” The lady smiles softly and nods. “Thank you sir.” Andrew nods and grabs his clothes and changes.. However, it was rather extra and… Well, unfamiliar for Andrew. Once he got out, the lady could only chuckle. “What? Did I do something wrong?” Andrew asks. “Well, sir, you are supposed to tuck in your pants in the boots. The tie is also wrong…” The lady chuckles. “Ah, apologies… I’m from the rural places, I'm not that fond of suits.” It was a lie. Andrew was fond of suits, but not used to this type of suit. “Well, it’s quite alright.” The woman was young. It got Andrew asking. “What’s your name? You’re… Very young to be working in this… Place.” The woman raises a brow. “I'm 24.. My Mother… She worked here since i was a kid to give me money.. To keep us stable.. I grew up here.” The girl shrugged. “Off you go, sir.” She smiled brightly, forgetting to fix his tie. “Thank you.. Uhm..” Andrew waited for her to give her name. “Evelyn.” Evelyn smiled. “Evelyn. Thanks.” He nodded and wore his coat, venturing out of his bedroom, looking to his left, he already spotted Leopold sitting down, legs crossed, tea in his cup, and newspaper in hand. With a hum, Leopold glances at Andrew, clad in some old clothes Leopold had laying around, clothes he didn’t need anymore. Placing the newspaper on the coffee table and setting his tea back onto its small tray, Leopold grinned and walked up to Andrew. “You took a long time in the room, I was so sure you drowned in the bed.” Leopold joked and once in close proximity with Andrew, fixed the collar of his polo and his coat. “You look great in my old clothes. I wasn’t sure they’d fit you..” Andrew’s eyes widened, “This is yours? I am so sorr–” “It’s fine, Andrew.” His voice is velvety, thick with an accent. The way his name rolled off of his tongue, the way he smiled, the way the morning didn’t affect him. It was almost like he didn’t want to leave.

“Andrew?” Leopold asks. Tilting his head. Andrew snaps back to reality and smiles. “Sorry, peanut I uh–” he cut himself. Did he… seriously.. Call Leopold peanut? Where did THAT come from? “Peanut?” Leopold laughs. “Sorry– Sorry. I really do not mean to call you that.” “no, no Andrew, it’s fine. You can call me… ‘peanut’ if you prefer it.” Leopold chuckles. “But if you call me peanut, I get to call you bub occasionally.” Andrew chuckles, hands behind his back and shakes his head. “God..” He gave him his toothy grin. “I mean.. Well… Sure. You’re never beating the Wolverine allegations.” Andrew smirked, Leopold only staying confused. “Wolverine allegations? What are people discussing about me? Is this bad?” Andrew grins and just shakes his head. “No, it’s not bad. It’s nothing harmful, trust me. Just a… Reference others would get.” Leopold nods. “So an inside joke?” Leopold nods more, and chuckles softly. “Alright then. Would you like some breakfast? My uncle is out the entire day so he won’t be able to disrupt us, hopefully.” Leopold asks. An eager smile on his face before studying Andrew’s whole stature. Eyes falling onto his tie. “Wait– Sorry. Your tie is wrong.” Leopold quickly points out and Andrew hums. He wasn’t sure how people tied it then, but left it to Leopold to fix it… However, even without saying anything, Andrew was flustered with how close Leopold was to him.

His hands were soft on the tie, yet, he managed to also keep masculinity in them. He was focused and unbothered that Andrew was bothered in a good way. Men his time weren’t like Leopold, so this was entirely foreign to the man, it made his heart bloom, a great break from modern stress. Here, he was treated like he was someone important, but the only man orchestrating his comfort was just Leopold. Christ, what’s up with his behaviour? He’s insane to think that Leopold would want him.

But with how close he was to Leopold, how gentle Leopold was with him, he couldn't help himself. How the hell does he not have a girlfriend with how charming he was? Who was Andrew kidding as well… He met Leopold just yesterday as well. No way in hell Leopold would feel the same for him, even if he did secretly like men as well. Only a man can dream. Perhaps this was the day off he needed.

“There we are. Very prim and proper now.” Leopold states, earning a smile from Andrew. “Well.. Thank you, peanut.” Andrew starts to walk away to the breakfast table. “Tea and biscuits?” Andrew chuckles, seeing the food before him, almost making fun of him in a joking manner. “You’re really English.” Andrew grinned and Leopold, like a curious dog, tilted his head. “Would you like another breakfast? I can honestly just ask to prepare another—” “No, no, o, no, no, no! It’s okay! I’m just poking fun.. It’s alright, no need to uh.. To give me a new dish. I’m happy with this alone." Andrew reassures with a hand on his shoulder, Leopold smiling and wrapping his fingers over Andrew’s.

Andrew sits across Leopold’s former spot and looks at the tray of biscuits. “Allow me.” Leopold states, getting the kettle filled with tea and pouring it out for Andrew. “Andrew, what was your life before moving to New York? Pray tell. I am rather curious.” Leopold smiles, settling the kettle onto a placemat, intrigued to know more about Andrew. “Well… I always liked writing. I’ve made it clear, evident. But uhm.. I also do creative writing when I'm feeling lucky. I’ve always been a fan of superhero movies, but my dad never really approved of it.” That only scratched the surface. Andrew was aware that if he revealed too much, it wouldn’t feel like it came from this time.

One day, Leopold, Andrew will tell the truth.

Leopold nods at Andrew's answer. “Well, My uncle is unsupportive of my designs and inventions as well. It’s a passion, I’m sure you’re aware because I told you.” Leopold sighs. “Anywho, he wants me to marry into a really rich family, or marry a rich duchess, because after my father died, we have gotten really poor, which resulted in us moving here.” Leopold paused. “No one really catches my eye, but perhaps that’ll change. My uncle encouraged me to attend a party on the 25th. Would you care to join me? That’s where I’d supposedly find my wife.” Leopold shrugs. “However, the real party is on the 28th of April.” Leaning back now, Leopold smiles as he watches Andrew practically stuff his mouth with biscuits. “Sure. I can accompany you. That’s on a… Thursday, correct?” Andrew asks. “Yes. A thursday.” With a soft smile he continues to watch Andrew eat most of the biscuits. “It’s… a Friday, if I am not mistaken, so we have plenty of time to get to know each other.” Andrew just nodded, swallowing before drinking his tea to wash down any of the remains. “Would you like more biscuits?” Leopold asks. “Yes please.” Andrew responds immediately. The helpers nod and take the tray away to fill it with more biscuits.

In the meantime, Leopold gets to look outside of his manor. “You are an odd man Andrew..” Leopold starts. “I like that. It’s something different from the usual friends I have.” He smiles softly. Leopold thought of Andrew as a… Friend?! “Well..” Andrew starts. “Glad you see me as a friend… And I can say me too.” Andrew nods and smiles, happier now that the biscuits arrive.

However, after a few minutes, the conversation dispersed. Andrew needed fresh air, so he went to the side of the estate. Taking in the cleaner New York air in his lungs. For what felt like a moment of peace, he was quickly disrupted by a hand. “You!” He exclaimed. It was the Stuart guy… “You?—” “I’ve been looking for you! You need to go back to the present! Right now! You might be altering history, and that’s something serious!” Stuart scolded as if he knew Andrew personally. “Woah! Hey man! I’m just as confused as you are!” Stuart, however, rolls his eyes. “You should’ve declined the offer to stay in his house! Leopold’s story is very important because he made the first elevator and made me exist! He’s literally my relative! And if you hinder his relationships to marry— Elevators in the present world, and I will cease to exist!” Stuart says, practically trying to shake sense in the man. Andrew could only let the information soak in.

His heart grew heavy. If he left now, he’d lose the opportunity to at least form a bond, a friendship with someone, after years, and go back to his boring, stressful life as a secretary.. Or he’ll take the risk and hinder history, forever, and live with that.

…Or…

“Hey.. Stuart, right?” Andrew asks. “Listen.. Andrew shakes his head. “Give me.. 11 days. Tops.. To stay with Leopold… And then I’ll leave.” Andrew strikes the deal. It wasn’t a fair deal and would end with painful memories, but it’s worth a shot. Even if Andrew wishes that they could be more than friends, he can only daydream about it. However, at least, as friends, they could hang out without any hassle. It’s stupid, it’s a love trope Andrew always thought was stupid and annoying. A big example for this could be Logan with Jean Grey.

And the love trope was love at first sight.

He never thought it would be a real and ethical trope, but here Andrew is, stupidly in love with the duke.

Stuart arches a brow, however. “Did Leopold catch your attention?” IT was a simple question that got Andrew stammering already. “I— What?— huh— Psh! No!” Andrew denies, laughing it off before: “Yes. I didn’t think love at first sight was real but here we are.” His tone is serious and deadpan. “Okay– Here’s the deal. I’ll give you 11 days to stay with Leopold. However, once it’s the party where Leopold has to choose a fianceè, you have to leave. Disappear from his life, go away, no going back.” Andrew weighs his options… And with a defeated sigh, nods. “Okay. Fine.” Andrew hoped these feelings for Leopold were just appreciation and platonic and not actually a crush. Andrew just hoped so that it wouldn’t hurt as much as it would if he did leave.

With a heavy heart, Andrew made his final answer. “I’ll leave. After. Disappear.” His shoulders slump and Stuart nods. “Great… Uh… Who are you again?” Stuart asks. “Andrew.” He replied. “Alright.”

“Do we have ourselves a deal, Andrew?” Stuart asks, handing his hand out to Andrew.

Reluctantly taking it, he gave him a firm handshake and a slightly pain stricken smile.

“Deal.”

Chapter Text

The events of the day were very chaotic, chaotic enough for Andrew to rub his temple. “Andrew?” Leopold calls out. Seeing Andrew outside. It was strange, however, he didn’t question. “Yes?” He looks at Leopold, pursing his lips. “Well.. I was about to ask if you would like to go out with me?”

…

Did Andrew hear right? “Go out with me?” He echoed and Leopold nodded. “Yes! Hang out. As friends. Get to know each other better.” He smiles. So that was what Leopold meant… Andrew nods and his smile grows. “Yeah! Sure!” Andrew might as well also reveal more stuff about him too.

It was a sunny day out at the park, there was a newspaper in Andrew’s hand as Leopold munched on his ice cream, the newly, now available to anyone, ice cream. “I can’t believe there’s a dangerous caca roaming the streets. People back then were wild.” Andrew says, reading the headline ‘A dangerous caca has been roaming around the streets of New York!’ It was… Interesting. “The dangerous caca? Yeah I heard he’s been telling people to get hard… or something along the lines.” “This goes hard.” Andrew corrected. Leopold hums. “Yes, that.” He points out as he finishes his treat. With Andrew shrugging, he folded and placed the newspaper back into its square form and left the paper on the bench. “Leopold, do you believe in time travel?” Andrew asks suddenly. “Time travel? Well, I like the concept… Just not believe in it.” Leopold kept eating his ice cream as Andrew paused. “Well, hypothetically speaking, what if I’m from the future? Like– If you could ask me a question… if I was… Ask it and I’ll try to answer.” Leopold paused and raised a brow at Andrew. “Well, I’d need a lot of proof that you were so… Who is the president then?” Leopold asks. Andrew pauses and says; “George W. Bush.” Leopold paused and nodded. “Are there going to be any wars?” Andrew winced and nodded. “But I’m sure you wont be alive by then.” Leopold blinks and narrows his eyes. “Will I make an impact in a way? Make my uncle proud just— somehow?” Andrew’s gaze lingered on Leopold and he nodded. “The elevator. You made it.” Andrew sighs. “A contraption placed in every building that doesnt allow us to use stairs in really high buildings, to keep and maintain our stamina, to make us less tired.” Leopold’s eyes widen a bit. “Are–” He couldn’t speak. “Really? You are not just… Complimenting me with lies?” His brows furrow and Andrew just nodded softly. “Uhm.. Yea.” Leopold furrowed his brows further and then, hesitantly… “Are you really?”

Andrew understood that he was hesitant.. But then again people were gullible then.

“Yep. I can assure you I am.. From the future..” Andrew bit his tongue. Maybe he shouldn’t have said that, but now he looks like a fool. A fool who also lied about it. “Well.. Doesn’t this mean you should go back to your original time?” Leopold asks. “Uhm… I made a deal with who brought me here— and he said I can stay here for 11 days… So take your gander.” Andrew’s cheeks quickly got pink before he shook his head. “Okay, uh. I look stupid.” He comments before leopold lets out a soft laugh… Dammit that laugh… It was so… British and polite that it was attractive. Strangely. But anything is attractive if you put the right overlay of color and song to it. In Andrew’s mind, that laugh and Leopold himself was… There she goes by the La’s, probably. “No, it’s fine, Andrew. I’ll believe you… At least for now.” Leopold smiles, a smile that could attract any lover at his feet… it wasn’t fair. It wasn’t fair to Andrew, he got all the chicks– that meant he had competition.

“Wanna go to a…” Andrew trailed off. “The bar?” Andrew asked. “This early?” Leopold cocks a brow. “I mean… Are they open?” Andrew’s gears were turning in his head, confused, but Leopold did have a point.

Were they open?

“Well,” he paused. “Only one way to find out.” Andrew smiles cheekily.

So let’s just say they “accidentally stumbled” into a molly-house. There were various men and women talking amongst each other, all the molly men and women talking, flirting, meeting in secret.

“I find it very coincidental that we ran up in this molly house– thank you.” Leopold says, taking the plate that held coffee. “Hey, to be fair I didn’t know. Maybe the fact that we stumbled upon dangerous caca was what shocked me into going here." Leopold blinked and shrugged. “Touchè.” However, the first mistake both Andrew and Leopold made is the fact that the bar had windows. It was like a normal cafè you’d stumble upon, the molly house had windows. Windows in which you could clearly see who was inside. Usually, no one would really give two glances at the establishment, but a familiar, certain, aristocrat glanced once. Then twice, when he saw his nephew inside a, what modern people call, gay bar. A place where Leopold doesn’t really belong. A place that Leopold is not meant to be in, a place where these evil men will just confuse him and stray his morals away from the Lord.

Leopold’s uncle is fuming. Who is this random guy? Who is he to turn his dear leopold into a queer?

In the corner of Leopold’s eyes, he can see his uncle. His uncle making exaggerated movements for Leopold to go out.

Leopold’s genuine peace and happiness faded seeing his uncle. Him being angry made it even worse. Leopold’s mind raced at the possible things he’d say, but if he asks to leave Andrew, no way.

“What are you doing with men like this?! They can influence you!” Leopold’s uncle yelled out. “You know what’ll happen to you being seen here! We are low on money already, we don’t need you ruining your reputation amongst aristocrats even more!” He exclaimed and Leopold could only absorb the insults. “Well, the reason we are low on money is because of your poor decisions. I admit I might’ve played a part, however, it isn’t exactly my fault. My reputation won't be affected. No one bats an eye, and, better yet, only glance once before going along with their day. I am sincerely sorry if that bothers you, but I just simply want to spend time with a friend. That’s all.” Leopold finally said something. Andrew could watch how upset, yet, eerily calm his expression was. There was a hint. “You watch your mouth, Leopold. You have such a quick, smart, tongue, but you simply do not use it well, you only use it when you want to annoy me to death.” His uncle grumbled, pushing a finger to his chest in anger. Leopold sighs. “But I’m just having fun? It’s more lively than the places you tell me to go– I’ve got a friend, after many years, and it finally isn’t Otis. Isn’t that what you wanted?” Leopold retorted and his father could just scoff. “Oh, please. Don’t surround yourself with these types of people! They’re going to poison your brain, Leopold!” He barked back and Leopold was tired of arguing. He just rolled his eyes and looked at him, a face dead serious. “I am an adult, a man that can make my own decisions if I please. Now, if you will excuse me, You have errands that I may be disturbing.” Leopold dismisses his uncle, despite the power his uncle held, he just scoffed at Leopold, glaring. “Be back by 5:30 sharp.” He narrows his eyes at Andrew, inside the molly house, curiously and confusingly watching the situation unfold, before leaving. Leopold straightens his coat and heads back inside to finish off his- now cold - coffee.

“I do apologise, Andrew, but we must head back to the manor by 5:30. My uncle doesn’t like it when we arrive late at night.” With that, Leopold envelopes Andrew’s right hand with his own, looking at Andrew’s brown eyes. Andrew could’ve sworn Leopold was flirting with him. He had to be. Andrew could feel heat racing to his face and he could just nod. Andrew was known to be a man of manliness, determination… Whatever qualities a dream guy possesses. But now, Leopold makes him feel like butter, it feels so stupid. Andrew chuckled nervously before nodding. “Yeah. We still have one hour and 30 minutes left… How do you wanna spend the rest of it?” Andrew asks and Leopold could only stay silent a bit, thinking hard.

“Anything, as long as I get to spend it with you.” Leopold responds with a sweet, genuine smile. Andrew could only blink. Does he realise the effect he has on him? Either way, Andrew nods and smiles in Leopold's way, agreeing to spend the rest of the hour together outside. Andrew was slowly realising just how much more affectionate men were with their words… Pride and Prejudice wasn’t lying, not one bit.

Chapter Text

Leopold’s uncle had advised they’d be back before sundown… 5:30, sharp. However, Leopold felt like he could easily lose track of time when Andrew was around. The two men laughed and walked merrily along the cobblestone streets. “Oh, goodness. I’ll just have to check the time.” Leopold says, digging into the pockets of his coat to get his pocket watch out… 5:45pm. Leopold had to bite his tongue seeing the time. “Oh– We must head back.” Leopold says, almost fearful. Andrew tilts his head slightly. “It’s barely sun down.” Andrew quips. Leopold turns around and gives him an “are-you-serious-right-now-do-you-hear-yourself” kind of look. It was sunset.

Leopold could only sigh and shake his head. “Uncle’s gonna kill me if he gets the chance.” Leopold says, and Andrew feels bad. For once, in his life, he’s the bad influence friend. And who the hell wants that? Reluctantly, Andrew sighs and nods. Following Leopold back to his home… Only to be met by his angry… but short, uncle. “Leopold Alexis Elijah Walker Gareth Thomas Mountbatten! Where have you been!” Leopold, despite being… probably late 20s, was acting like a teenager.. Being scolded by his uncle. “You are ridiculous. You are– God! You are difficult! Have Otis stir your bath.. And you, I want a word with you.” His uncle said, pointing towards Andrew.. Who looked around, confused. “Me?” His brows furrowed as Leopold placed a hand in front of Andrew. “Leave dear Andrew out of this Uncle Millard. He had done nothing wrong. I admit it was my ignorance that led us to be late. Not his.” His uncle could only scoff out a laugh. “I’m glad you realize it. Either way I can smell his intentions.” His uncle scowled, before slapping Leopold’s back to jolt him forward. “Go on. Bath.” He commands, as Leopold flinched and glanced back at Andrew with guilt before walking off.

“You. Boy—” “It’s Andrew.” Uncle Millard scowled. “I can see why Leopold has been disrespectful. He gets it from you.” He spits out, Andrew sighing softly. “Sorry, your grace.” He reluctantly addresses, not exactly used to such formal prefixes and such. “I know what you are.” Uncle Millard was blunt with his speech. Homophobic dog, much? “I know what you’re doing to my Leopold. Tempting him into sin! Tempting him to commit such heinous actions– It’s awful of you. Stay away from him. You hear?” His uncle threatened before Andrew spoke. Andrew was… Playful, you could say… But he wasn’t dumb. He wasn’t naive either. “I’m sorry– I’m not.. Influencing your nephew on anything.” Andrew states. “Whatever Leopold does, he does it. It’s his… Own.. Thing. Whatever I do is just purely my nature.” Andrew shrugs, but Leopold’s uncle was persistent. “The Lord, Jesus, never liked lying. Earlier today at the Molly house— That’s no mistake that you are influencing and turning Leopold’s life into sin! I can’t have a homosexual for a nephew!” Andrew just blinks and laughs. “I’m sorry.. You– you think I'm making your nephew.. Queer?” Andrew smiles. “With all due respect, I simply do not have any charm, whatsoever, He does, but I don’t. No way your nephew genuinely likes me as someone more.. Or does he look interested in men that way. And if he does end up liking men, it’s not exactly my problem for his preferences.” Andrew says, shrugging. Leopold’s uncle just laughs. “You think I’m easily fooled by a devil’s tactics? Think again.” Andrew just leaves his mouth agape. “I’m sorry- Devil? I don’t—” “Keep it zipped, demon. May the Lord bless you. You should be thankful I hadn’t reported you to the high priest of this town. They’d have you executed.” And honestly, knowing the people then, this was really gonna happen.. So Andrew kept quiet.. Before Uncle Millard continued. “Stop influencing my nephew. Find God while you can.” He frowned as he dramatically whipped around to go to his quarters.

Andrew honestly didn’t give a shit about what Leopold’s uncle was yapping about… But knowing that these were people who believed that women could be witches and that Henry the eighth had a big dick, it wasn’t impossible as well… Andrew just sighs. Perfect timing, Otis came out of the room and spoke. “Sir, your bath has been stirred, your sleepwear is ready.” Andrew glances up and just nods, “Uh-huh, be right there.” He spoke as his gaze lingered to where Leopold’s uncle left.

God bless Leopold for being the best, most humble being on this earth… While also being attractive. Quite rare in the great 2009. Either way, he won’t ever find a guy like that. Ever. when he gets back, and that’s sad.

Andrew finished his shower. Ruffling up his hair as he wore his comfortable sleepwear. Sitting on the bed again, he sighs and, by instinct, reaches for his desk, looking for a phone that was nonexistent. Andrew laid in his bed, staring at the ceiling… Before hearing his door open and someone knock on his door. “Am I disturbing?” Leopold… His velvet voice was a comfort and distraction to his turmoil. Andrew smiles and sits up on his bed as Leopold enters and closes the door behind him. Andrew’s bed dipped as Leopold sat across the man as Andrew sighs. “My uncle didn’t eat you, did he?” Leopold says, showing clear concern for his “friend”. Holding Andrew’s hand inside his again. “My boss in my real timeline is scarier.” Leopold could only chuckle. “My sincerest apologies for… Not defending you, back there. I really hope you’re okay.” Andrew shakes his. “Oh c’mon. You worry about me like some helpless puppy.” Andrew smiles softly at Leopold, glancing at his lips for a moment. They were perfect. “Me? I’m 27. A grown man. I’m sure I can defend myself with some old guy.” Leopold chuckled lightly. Ignoring the fact his heart was racing. More than it had in his life.. And he wasn’t doing any extreme activity… Just sitting in a room with Andrew in front of him.

Was it the heat of their proximity causing this? Or was it the growing guilt, creeping inside of his heart? The fear of feeling something for Andrew.. A feeling only meant for women.

“Yeah. But I just… want to..” Leopold trails off, he could feel Andrew’s breath fan his face. “...See if you’re alright.." He could feel his eyes drop to Andrew’s lips, and to his eyes.. Like– Almost instinct, he wanted to draw himself closer to Andrew. His head, it was moving. Moving involuntarily closer to the man in front of him. His breath trembled, driven by the whole tension and vibe of this room, he leaned in closer to Andrew, and he swore he was moving too. They were gonna kiss. They were gonna finally address the elephant in the room. Andrew was beyond excited. Silently screaming in his head.. Heart thudding against his chest as well, their hearts beating in sync with each other at a quickened pace. Maybe due to fear… Or maybe due to unspoken love..

Just centimeters away, it was almost like Leopold almost met happiness…

Almost.

Leopold snapped to reality, pulling away from Andrew when he felt his lips brush his. “I– I’m sorry.” it seemed that guilt clouded his brain. Guilt and… fear.. Clouded him. “You must be exhausted.” Leopold stood up and Andrew was… confused. “What? No I’m not—” “I shall sleep now.” He says, walking away till he reaches the door. “Good bye, Andrew. Sweet dreams. I shall see you tomorrow.” Leopold gives him a weak smile before opening the door and closing it.

Andrew felt it. He felt the vibe in the room, he knew Leopold wanted to kiss him. He knew Leopold wanted him… But, strict religion held the man back. Held the man over what could’ve happened.

And Andrew was so damn ready for it.

Upset, Andrew just groaned. So sad, so upset over what happened…

Maybe, Andrew just needed to let Leopold know that it was okay to be… To kiss him.. To do more with him.. Without judgement… And Andrew.. He was determined.. Determined to make Leopold the happiest man alive in maybe… 2 more days.

But oh, how could Andrew sleep? Only time can tell. For now, Andrew had to mourn the fact that Leopold almost kissed him… And had to also cherish the moment he could’ve had because.. That meant he had a chance.