Chapter Text
The past 4 years of Sebastian's existence have been spent being a devoted servant to his Master, whether day or night. He wakes him in the morning, supplies him with delicious meals throughout the day, attends his travels and bathes him when the day comes to an end. Fulfilling his tasks dutifully. Throughout all this time though, not once has Sebastian seen the young Master express any kind of delight nor interest at the various holidays each year has to offer. Most of the time, he goes out of his way to completely deny and disregard them when they eventually come around.
With that another task falls to Sebastian: to compel his Master to partake in the coming festivities and with them, take care of the responsibilities that a person of his status has to fulfill in order to maintain his public image. Any decent butler should excel at managing such a task.
Ciel isn't secretive about his distaste for the crowds and the all too cheery atmosphere that accompany most if not all holidays and their socially acceptable celebrations and traditions. Hence, Sebastian usually doesn't try to convince him to attend most of the events he is invited to. And even less the public ones, for which one wouldn't need an invitation, just status. No, Ciel would much rather sit in his office all day and work on improving the Funtom company. His desk, covered in various kinds of paperwork and taking phone call after phone call. Most of the time he does exactly that and if it's not out of enjoyment for his company, the work is used as an excuse not to do what the demon asks of him.
So every holiday Sebastian has experienced, in his time as Ciel's servant, he has observed how Ciel has without fail managed to postpone the mention of the approaching holiday up until Sebastian finally allows himself to go against his Masters wishes and confront him, which is of course never taken well and earns him a stern look each time. This has never bothered Sebastian. He prefers to think of it as a game, composed of the young Master's desperate wish to avoid any and all festiveness, only for Sebastian to crush it at the last possible moment. Sometimes when nothing else but the cat outside the manor served as entertainment, especially if the young Master as well as the staff made his time as butler unbearable, these promised moments were something he would look forward to even more.
But unfortunately for Sebastian, Ciel has slowly started giving up on this hope of peace and quiet. The demon guesses he noticed what a joy it was to Sebastian. They were pretty attuned to one another after all.
Usually Ciel would be avoiding his birthday like the plague. Anything alluding to festivities like the overjoyed and eager looks the servants shared with one another, thinking their young Master wouldn't see or even Sebastian displaying feelings of being content too obviously, made Ciel distance himself, burying himself beneath heaps of work and isolating himself in this grave he dug, hoping to pass this time of year like a corpse, unconscious of what is going on above the surface.
It was such a humorous sight to Sebastian, so much so that he awaited that time of the year eagerly. Thus making Ciel's birthday one of his favourite celebrations. Watching his young Master fall into silent despair over something like a birthday. Obviously Sebastian was quick to ignore every detail that justified Ciel's reaction, after all there was rarely something humans had to offer in experiences that could impress or move a creature like him.
The weeks leading up to the young Masters 14th birthday everything went the same as it did the years prior. Sebastian would make slight remarks about the manor having been rebuilt around this time of the year when they first became acquaintances, make references to the former head of the estate and compare him to the child in front of him, even give extra attention to the branding on Ciel's back when washing him and so on. Sebastian could certainly see the effect he had on the kid, even when Ciel tried to pretend to brush off the remarks and ignore their meaning.
Until he didn't anymore.
“Sebastian..” a quiet voice called out, tucked into bed with a blanket slightly obscuring his words. Hesitant till the end.
“Yes, my Lord?” Sebastian was a step short of reaching the door before swiftly turning around, giving his Master his full attention.
Ciel wasn't prone to hesitating, often even showing disdain for it. But when all the lights go out, and the darkness sets in, one is left with a feeling of vulnerability. Your surroundings seem to disappear and all you are left with are your thoughts. This is a phenomenon Sebastian has witnessed in multiple contractors.
“My birthday is coming up, as I'm sure you are aware,” With a voice still wavering, he made an effort to sit up straight, still enveloped in the thick blanket and avoiding Sebastian's gaze at all cost.
“Of course, my lord. The 14th birthday, afterall, is a milestone for every child,” The butler offers with a smile.
After a beat of silence Ciel spoke again, “I think it would do me well to plan the festivities with you, though I dread it tremendously if I'm honest.” Ciel, at last looks up at his butler, after uttering his confession.
With the only thing illuminating the room being the warm candlelight and Ciel sitting in the too large bed, he looks positively small and fragile.
Sebastian starts moving towards the young Master with slow steps. A hum permeating the room before he starts speaking, ”A change of heart my lord? With your usual behaviour I hardly anticipated such a request from you,” he informs mockingly now standing by the bed again, looking Ciel in the eyes.
Annoyed at the challenging tone coming from Sebastian, he looks away before he says, “It's not a request, it's a notice. I can't try to escape it any longer, the unease that overwhelms me each year doesn't lessen with me ignoring it. I want it done with.” Even with uncertainty claiming his posture, the young Masters voice has found its usual confidence again, now addressing Sebastian dismissively.
Sebastian isn't quick to let this topic be over with, especially considering Ciel is eager to move on from this conversation. “There is no need to fret, my lord. Nothing is going to happen with me by your side, you must be aware of that. What reason for unease could make you doubt that?” Sebastian likes playing pretend. It usually riles Ciel up before he can think to keep his wits about him.
“Im perfectly aware,” he says looking exhausted, “ but this is for the best, and I expect you not to question me.”
Before Sebastian can continue to pester him, he cuts in, "That's all, you are dismissed. I want to go to bed.” And with that he slumps down and turns away from Sebastian, not giving him a chance to prolong this tedious conversation.
With a sigh he picks up the candelabra. “Sweet dreams, my lord,” Sebastian responds complacent, before finally leaving the room.
The following days leading up to his birthday, Ciel made a noticeable effort to engage in the planning of the event. He looked pained throughout every step and was overall more irritable but the attempt surprised Sebastian greatly, all the while ruminating the loss of his favourite game, after the contract itself that is. Even if watching Ciel struggle through a new set of problems, he created for himself, was entertaining as well.
Ciel even handled himself accordingly throughout the duration of the celebration. Normally he was groaning about the party before Sebastian could grin with the thought of nudging the young Master out of his shell, to push him into a crowd and watch him hold out long enough until he is able to escape the conversation or the function entirely, exhausted from the facade he has to uphold as well as the hollow topics and closemindedness of his fellow nobles. But now he was engaging by himself, he didn't seem eager, by all means, but he played his part well enough to fool the people and earn a few comments on his improved presence. A year prior these comments would hold no weight to the young Master, but it seems that with the change in attitude, they have a positive effect.
The Midfords were by far the most pleased with Ciel's change of attitude, each in their own way.
“Ciel, your behaviour is certainly more agreeable. I am glad to finally witness you growing up and assimilating with the rest of polite society." She takes a sip of her tea. “As is expected of you,” Aunt Francis praised.
They were sat in the drawing room, conversing about the most frivolous topics. The rest of the guests had left barely an hour ago, yet the Midfords decided to stay as the evening wasn't overly progressed and it's been a while since they had a private moment as family. Aunt Francis was opposite Ciel, next to her husband, while Edward and Lizzy sat on a different settee, all circling the table in the middle holding various snacks and tea Sebastian had prepared, who was observing from the end of the room behind his Master.
Her phrasing was certainly lacking in politeness. It always struck a nerve when someone critiqued his age.
“Well yes, thank you aunt Francis,” His expression was strained, trying not to display his discontent openly, instead focusing on the positive feedback from his aunt. Ciel looks off to the side hoping to avoid the eyes of uncle and aunt, if only for a second. His gaze lands on Edward only to realize Lizzy is missing from his side.
“When did Elizabeth manage to wander off?” he asks, perplexed. She was just hugging him, before his Aunt reprimanded her for her excessive display of unbecoming expressions, telling her to stop at once.
“She slipped away to collect the present she got you,” Edward informed him.
“That sweet girl, it was all she talked about the past weeks. She is very proud of the gift. You’ll love it, no doubt,” Alexis chimed in, a soft smile on his face as he talked about his precious daughter.
“Oh well, it does sound intriguing indeed.” Ciel blinked. He didn't want to disappoint Lizzy with a lack of reaction, yet there were little things that held value to him. And with Edward around, who has been eyeing Ciel this entire conversation, upsetting Lizzy would make the situation even worse. But material things have lost their value a long time ago, especially in an emotional sense. He had been forced to discard such notions. And Lizzy valued those more than most others.
The only things he needs are the ones bringing him closer to his goal. And once his revenge is attained, he will have no need for even those.
Nevertheless there was a slight hint of curiosity within Ciel. The adults seemed pleased with her efforts, so surely Ciel could muster the same feeling.
Before long, Lizzy made her way back to the drawing room. Bursting with anticipation she hastened to Ciel's side, 2 boxes the size of her head in her arms. Barely any steps taken, Sebastian politely blocks her way, aiming to cease this display before she can progress any further, by stepping directly in front of her. Considerably faster than he should have managed to, Ciel might add.
“Please let me take care of these for you, Lady Elizabeth,” he offered, bowing to retrieve the presents in her care.
“Oh yes, thank you Sebastian!” She carefully hands him the presents with a big appreciative smile.
With that she resumes her walk, Sebastian trailing behind her.
“Oh Cieeelll.” Lizzy sits down excitedly next to her beloved. “Ive been waiting to give you this for so long! It was so hard not to tell you my plans, but a proper lady must be able to restrain herself.”
“Yes well, it seems you have done well,” Ciel responded with a lack of an answer.
Just after Sebastian approaches the table and sets down the gifts before Ciel. With a gesture of finality he steps back to yet again silently observe.
"I've gotta say, you have a most dignified Butler,” Alexis announces. “Well mostly, that is,” Francis corrects sternly.
Normally there would have been a slight twitch in his lips. As a butler reflects on his Master and therefore praise aimed at Sebastian validated Ciel as well. Right now that didn’t matter to him, instead Ciel aimed to undermine Sebastian's effort as that was a delight Ciel would never rob himself of. He was sick of that rotten creature.. it managed to worsen this particular birthday build up more than he had anticipated. Consequently he was done with his nerves. “Dont pay him any mind. He merely does as he is paid,” He says with a lazy wave of his hand.
“Well I think all of your staff is wonderful,” Lizzy cheered obliviously. “They are all so adorable!”
Edward quirks up at that, “You are truly such a kind hearted soul Lizzy..” wiping a tear away.
Ciel's expression is one of scepticism, eyeing his exasperated movement warily. He can feel his eyebrow twitching and the sensation was not a welcome one.
Alexis interrupts in order to steer the conversation back to its original direction, “Kids, how about we let Ciel open his presents?”
Lizzy turns to Ciel, “Oh yes please! I put in a lot of effort for you.”
Ciel sighs quietly at the chaos going on around him before putting on a gentle smile to appease his family. He reaches for the one left of him, which is wrapped in a pastel blue paper adorned with delicately drawn snowflakes all around. It looked magnificent and matched the rich navy ribbon that was wrapped around the box. Throughout the whole display there were gold accents to make the look complete. It was stylistically well balanced which he appreciated. When Ciel picked up the box he found it to be heavier than expected. He thought the gift to be accessories of some sort, yet this is far too weighty for that. His curiosity spiked again.
Placing the box in his lap he started to undo the ribbon, he could feel the eyes of everyone around him trained on his expression and fingers, yet Lizzy was by far the most attentive. She placed one of her hands on his shoulder and kept bouncing her leg. Whether in excitement or nervousness, Ciel couldn't tell. Eyeing the box one last time he moved to unwrap it, wanting to get this done as quickly as possible.
When he finally reached into the box there was soft fur grazing his hand, only then his gaze followed. There was a plushie. Its face was turned upward, looking at him with big round eyes and a blush spreading through its cheeks.
Lizzy squealed excitedly, “Take it out!”, consequently Ciel was able to pick out Francis making a dissatisfied noise, yet that didn't seem to matter to Lizzy.
He places the plushie in his lap, staring back at it with just as big eyes. Now he can see it fully. It's a Bitter Rabbit, but Ciel doesn't recognize the design.
He studies the object thoroughly for a while, “Did you design this Lizzy?” He looks up at her now. She looks eager, practically on the edge of her seat. “Do you like it? I did design it, I crochet it myself as well. Just for you.” There was a soft smile adorning her face. “Do you recognize him?” she asks, her voice tentative.
“You made this yourself?” That was quite a shock to him. Lizzy is renowned for being able to pick up activities quickly and well, but Ciel would have bet she ordered it to be custom made. It looks as if it were made professionally and truth be told he appreciates the effort. Afterall he is a man that can recognize hard work for what it is.
“Of course, silly. I do want the best for you afterall.” With that she hugs him tightly nuzzling into his shoulder.
Trying to ignore her touch so as to not offend her, he continues, “Well, thank you Lizzy, it's beautiful. Your efforts are appreciated.” He turned to face her with a decently real smile. She squeezes him for a last time before letting go and redirecting his attention again. “Well don't be so quick, you still have to open the other one.”
“Yes I am aware, but it would be impolite to move on without paying you the proper respect you deserve.”
Lizzy looks away sheepishly before moving in order to give Ciel the space he needs to unpack the second present. He is glad that Lizzy seems pleased with the way this is going, otherwise this whole thing would be more trouble then its worth.
He averts his eyes from Lizzy to reach for the rose colored box. He is reluctant to claim this present as his, as it seems to represent Lizzy far more than him, stylistically speaking. It’s decorated with multiple ribbons, all with contrasting sizes and colors, with some being ruffled and others smooth. The paper consists of swirls switching between various shades of pink, the packaging outdoes the previous one by all means. That doesn't mean it's to Ciel's liking.. Inside was another Bitter Rabbit imitation, this one different from the previous one. Both are embellished with big glossy eyes and pinkish cheeks but they vary a lot in color and outfit. It doesn't take Ciel long to realize they are supposed to represent Lizzy and himself. Both outfits were kept rather simple, the newly opened one was dressed in a pink dress with a white underskirt and the other one in a loosely fitting cream long sleeve along with a sailor collar. While Ciel’s Rabbit was a pale shade of beige, Lizzy’s was akin to a tan color. But looking at both of them one has to admit that they were crafted with meticulous precision. The crochet stitches were even, the Rabbits were symmetrical and were weighted, to make them sit upright. If he had to guess rice was the probable option. The colors were picked to harmonize with another perfectly and the proportions match the ones of the actual Bitter Rabbits.
He regarded them for a moment before snapping out of his trance, looking up rather swiftly to give his gratitude once again.
“Lizzy, they are crafted wonderfully, thank you.” Leaning forward he extends his hand asking for hers in return. When she lays her hand in his he gently holds on to it and lifts it to his lips. A quick touch to the knuckles of his betrothed in order to show his appreciation. Sitting up straight again there is a faint smirk to be seen.
“You flatter me Ciel, really,” a blush befalls her cheeks as she speaks. After a moment she looks down at her lap fidgeting with her fingers, “I'm so glad you like them,” her demeanor seems serene, right now it feels like she is a shy content little girl, even though Ciel knows that could never describe his Lizzy.