White Maid (Rewrite)

The Demon, Protector & The Angel, Fallen

She was rather adorable, Sebastian thought to himself. Sound asleep in his arms as they rode back to the manor, Aurora's face nestled just above his heart, the soft occasional murmur of a sigh escaping her. He'd draped his black overcoat over her shoulders the moment he noticed her falling into sleep, keeping her warm from the cool night air.

Riding astride while she's balanced comfortably in his lap and steadily between his arms, Sebastian glanced up at the moonlit sky, a small smile stretching across his face as the light of the full moon. Gently halting the horse with a light tug of the reins, he shook the angel awake.

Aurora moaned in protest, batting his hand away sleepily while pulling the overcoat around her.

"Lemme sleep..."

Sebastian smirked, "Oh? So you don't wish to see the night sky? Hah...Forgive me, I'd assumed you'd enjoy it." Her blonde head poked up immediately and she smiled widely looking up at the stars.

He watched her eyes reflect the shine of the sky, sparkling with happiness as she counted constellations. Suddenly she turned to him, eyes with a different kind of light to them. "We used to look at the stars... Didn't we?" She asked softly. Sebastian smiled, hands holding her waist as she shifted her position. "Indeed." He replied, "However, not until we passed the young lord's age."

Aurora sigh was solemn, "How did it happen? I can't remember." Her eyes flickered with hurt, and she looked down. "It feels so... awful to not remember so much." Sebastian was quiet for a long moment. "I was on a contract." He began, "You suddenly showed up, throwing stones at the windows of my master's home, begging me to do something with you." He chuckled, "If I recall you cracked a window."

Aurora's face flushed in embarrassment. "Ugh.." Sebastian's lips curled into a smirk, "From there, we went to a cliff near my master's village and started watching the stars. And it became a habit for us when the other couldn't sleep."

Aurora glanced over at him, "How would you even contact me? The Silver City is so heavily guarded!" Sebastian smiled slyly, "As a demon prince, and fortunate enough to have the familiar of a crow, it was easy enough to send messages via courier pigeon." She smiled at that. "Oh... yes I seem to remember a little black bird at my window..." She yawned, "Such a sweet thing..." She rubbed her eyes sleepily and laid back against his chest. "Do you suppose we might continue back?" She murmured, "It's getting cold and I want to sleep in our nice warm bed."

A grin crossed Sebastian's lips. "Our bed?" He said, "I like the sound of that..." Aurora hummed, smiling teasingly, "One day we'll make the phrase permanent..." She glanced up at him with a smile, "Maybe... soon?" Her eyes were wide with hope, searching his for an answer, praying almost that he'd clue her in on when she could expect such a day to come.

Sebastian smiled, a finger coiling a thread of blonde curls. "Perhaps." He teased. Aurora smirked, "You won't even give me an estimate?" Sebastian hummed, "Well you were the one who wanted to wait a bit longer, darling. I'm only respecting your wishes." Aurora scoffed and then turned her head up to kiss him. "I'm sure you are." She sighed, sinking into his arms. "When we do decide to make the commitment," she started, "What happens then? Will we be just as we are now? Or will it be different."

She frowned, "I mean, my parents didn't exactly stay together. And they seem like they were lovely before they became bound. What if... that happens to us?" Sebastian looked down at her, "I promise you it won't. What we have now, darling, I don't plan to let it change for the worse." He caught her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. He could see the faint glimmer of tears in her eyes, as the worry of events that hadn't even happened rushed through her mind.

"Can you promise that?" She whispered, "Can you promise me that when we do take things further, that nothing bad will happen." Her voice cracked and Sebastian frowned. "Angelica..." She looked up at him, eyes slightly desperate. "Promise me! Promise me that nothing bad will happen between us!" There was evident fear in her eyes, and he couldn't even begin to imagine the things that she'd seen.

"Angelica, I can't promise nothing bad will happen. But I can promise that should such a thing happen, we will work past it." His hand cupped her face, and he realised there were soft tears making their way down her face. "Don't cry, darling. Tears don't suit you."

Aurora could feel the hairs on the back of her neck stand up as he bent down, his tongue licking away at one of her tears. She whined, a blush coming across her face an instant later as Sebastian laughed. "You can be so mean sometimes." She murmured, pulling him down to her so she could kiss him properly. He was barely given a moment to respond before she was kissing him, hands fisted around his linen shirt, wrinkling the fabric under the grip of her fingers.

He hummed against her lips, feeling her hands dancing up and over his shoulders, pulling him further into the kiss. When his tongue pressed against her lips, a silent plea for permission, she sighed, lips parting before her sigh gradually turned into what could have been a low moan. She grinned as they parted, her head rested against his. "Sometimes, I don't know what I did to deserve you."

Sebastian smirked, "I can't imagine we'll ever know." Aurora sighed, laying back on the horse's neck, "A tragedy. I wish I knew what I'd done to have you. I am in no way lucky... Hah, just look at how many dresses I've torn." Sebastian let out a rich laugh, the same rich laughter that had always sent her spiralling.

Always so effortlessly suave, always so gentle despite his nature...

Time seemed to slow as he laughed, from the way his face twisted into a fit of almost childish laughter, and the way that his demonic fangs poked out from behind his lips. This was a sight meant only for her. A sight that no one else would bear witness to.

Seeing him this way, it marveled her to be the one to see it.

Aurora smiled as his lips descended over hers for a second time, light and soft against hers. She giggled, barely managing to catch her breath as she pulled from him. Sebastian smirked, "You're staring again." Aurora mirrored his smirk, "Oh? Am I?" She pushed lightly against his chest, being mindful of the horse they were seated upon.

Sebastian hummed, "Yes..." He groaned as she sat up, holding to his shoulders as she swung her legs from the right side of the steed to around his waist. "Don't you like when I stare at you?" She teased, "I seem to recall you taking great pride in being in my sights." The demon's lip quirked up in a smirk.

"You've figured me out, angel."

She grinned, "I like to think I've always had you figured out."

The overcoat that was resting over her shoulders slid down her back as she leaned in to kiss him, startling the horse, causing the beast to stomp and rear, sending her barreling into Sebastian with a surprised cry.

Sebastian snatched the reins up in one hand, pulling harshly and forcing the horse to calm. Aurora relaxed a bit against him, and he held tightly to her forearm, He could still feel the faint shiver of fear on her skin. "What happened?" She asked, "Are you alright?" Sebastian nodded, eyes scanning the space around them. "The horse was spooked. I'm fine darling, are you?"

Aurora nodded. "Yes. A little shaken, but I'm fine." She looked down at the horse, "I wasn't expecting him to react so violently." She leaned forward to stroke the horse's mane, frowning when she felt the creature trembling under her touch, the poor thing was still a little frenzied and shaking. "It isn't like him, is it?" She asked, pressing her hand to the horse's shoulder, feeling the sharp pain of fear radiating from the poor thing.

Sebastian sighed, "I couldn't say, Bard and Finny usually take care of the horses. Last time the young master went riding, the bay threw him off." He looked back at the second horse following behind them and then down to the black one he and Aurora were perched on. "It might be about time to get some new horses." He glanced at the blonde, "We should continue before it gets too late, you need to sleep."

Aurora sighed, rolling her eyes and leaning back into him. "Must I?" She asked, "I am perfectly content staying up with you." He smirked, "I appreciate your offer, however your health must come first." She frowned, "But we don't-"

" Angelica . You need to be well rested." He said it so coldly, more as if he were commanding it of her.

No way in hell...

Her eyes narrowed and she looked back at him, silver blue eyes chilled, as if they were warning him of potential danger. "Malphas." As the whisper of his true name escaped her lips, he stopped the horse and looked down at her. She was glaring at him, though there was still an air softness, as if she were agitated, yet still concerned. "Please. I would rather die awake in your arms as opposed to in my sleep where I won't even know the last time I see you." She sighed, squeezing his hand, her demeanour softening a bit. "At least give me that, my love."

She looked at him with such intent behind her silver irises, the sparkle of blue a bit darkened in her seriousness. He was quiet for a moment, staring at the depths of them as they came out from under the safety of the trees, the moonlight catching instantly on her eyes.

"Malphas." She said again, "Understand me."

The demon couldn't refuse her. She treated this as if it were her final wish before death. Any other day he would have smirked and laughed at her for playing the game of honour. She was far too well aware he would honour her last wish.

Nodding, Sebastian's hand curved underneath her chin, tilting her face up just a bit so he could watch the moonlight glittering across her irises.

It's like gazing at the night stars above an ocean...

"Of course." He said at last, "If that's what you wish, angel." Aurora relaxed, maintaining eye contact with him for the next several minutes on the way to the stables. Not a word was exchanged, just a quiet peaceful few minutes.

She slid off the horse the moment it halted and moved to tend the pretty bay carrying the picnic basket and blanket. She cooed sweetly to it, offering it half an apple as she unsaddled it and guided it to it's stall. In return, the gentle beast gave a short neigh and nuzzled the side of her face before letting her leave to join Sebastian.

"Hello pretty," she cooed to the dark stallion, stroking its nose as Sebastian finished unsaddling it. "Were you frightened? Poor thing. You did bring us home safely, would you like an apple?" She offered the other half of the apple to the horse. The stallion sniffed at it hesitantly before taking it from her offered hand.

"You're rather good with animals." Sebastian noted, brushing the horse's back. Aurora hummed, removing the bridle. "I had plenty of time to read during my imprisonment. I learned a fair bit of things." She smiled, "For starters, animals will naturally flock to me, not only because of my angelic heritage, but because they have the ability to detect the intentions and personality of a person by a glance. It's rather incredible!"

She scratched the horse behind the ear and slipped it another small treat as Sebastian left the stall and shut it. "So, shall we return to our room?" She suggested, biting back a tired yawn that threatened to escape her. "I must admit... I'm getting a bit tired."

Sebastian smiled, offering her his hand, "But of course," he replied, charming smirk ever present on his face. Aurora started to smile, only to be cut off in a yawn. "Great..." Sebastian looped an arm around her waist, supporting her against him as they walked up the stairs to their room. "If you're too tired to walk, I don't mind carrying you." Sebastian said. Aurora shook her head, biting back another yawn. "No- it's okay. I can manage." She took another few steps before her leg gave out from under her- and before she had the chance to realise what had happened, Sebastian had swept her into his arms, resting her head against his shoulder.

He looked down at her teasingly, "You were saying?" Aurora scoffed, and cuffed him on the shoulder teasingly. "Shut up." She hummed, resting her head against his. "Though I have to admit... I think I like you carrying me." Sebastian smirked, "Is that so? Well, perhaps I should do it more often."

Aurora sighed, "Ah, it's going to become a thing isn't it?" Sebastian's only response was a short chuckle to himself, something that caused the blonde to roll her eyes, feigning annoyance with the demon.

Though she knew she failed horribly at that.

His arms around her were warm, luring her into a sense of security that immediately had her mind put at ease. Aurora could hardly remember the last time she had felt so... loved.

Sebastian, in all their years as friends in their youth, had always managed to make her feel a sort of humming in her chest, a lovestruck thumping of her heart, and a peaceful aura. It was strange that a demon could become an angel's source of comfort. She'd never imagined being in a relationship with a demon. But when it came to him... He didn't seem like a demon. He never had. He'd had gorgeous dark hair, piercing red eyes and fangs- but none had ever screamed demon to her.

She'd never seen him in that light.

He'd never been anything but someone who made her feel safe. Protected. As he set her down at the doorway of their room, moving to shut the door and stoke the fire, she watched him. Stoking the fire... then quickly starting on undoing his tie, to prepare for bed. He peeled off his gloves, pristine white revealing pale black tipped nails. And on his left hand sat the contract seal. A shimmering inky indigo black...

"Darling?" His voice caught her attention, and her head shot up to meet his eyes. Deep vermillion red on shimmering silver blue. The deep vermillion holding a hidden passion behind a mask, the silver blue left completely exposed, all emotion revealed.

Sebastian's lips quirked up into a small smile when he noticed her watching him. It was always a habit of hers, watching him, breaking down every aspect of his entire persona. She was always through, her eyes taking note of every inch of him, every action he did.

Aurora blinked suddenly, as if she'd been distracted, her mind elsewhere, and smiled lovingly at him. She didn't have to say it, her eyes spoke more words than she ever could. "Ready for bed?" She asked quietly. Sebastian smiled, slowly approaching her, a finger motioning for her to turn so he could unlace her corset. "I am," he said, "Are you?"

She grinned as she felt the corset loosen and the rest of the dress fall away to the floor. "I am." She replied, stepping out of the heap of clothing and pulling her nightgown over her head, humming quietly. "Think we can sleep in?" She asked, combing her fingers through her blonde curls as she sat at her vanity, eyeing her lover in the reflection of the mirror. Sebastian was neatly folding her clothes and shelving them away as he answered, "Perhaps a bit." He said, "Though tomorrow it is supposed to rain."

At that Aurora heard a quiet rumble of thunder in the distance, and sighed. "Pity. We could have had a lovely breakfast picnic." Sebastian let out a small hum of amusement, "We can always have a picnic in here, angel." Aurora smirked as his eyes roamed over her figure. "Stop being so lewd, you're practically salivating over me."

The demon came up behind her, plucking the brush from her hand. "Should I not be?" He said nonchalantly, "You like my teasing, do you not?" She hummed, "I suppose I do..." She glanced back at him, "You could tone it down a bit when we're in public. The last thing we need is the young lord protesting and opting to split us up."

Sebastian sighed, "You make an excellent point..."

He paused, the brush in the middle of a section of her hair. It was entirely plausible that Ciel would decide out of the blue to separate them, the boy didn't exactly always play fair. Aurora's hand on his own made him meet her eyes in the mirror's reflection. "I'm sure it will be fine." She said, "And if he makes do on the promise, we can meet at the lake at night."

Sebastian frowned, slowly beginning to brush her hair again. "True, but I would rather not be away from you." His eyes seemed to narrow, "And rest assured, I will not allow him to force you out." He stepped back, setting the brush aside, bowing so his head rested against hers. "You and I are inseparable. We will remain inseparable."

He pressed his lips to the side of her neck, murmuring against her skin, "That is something I promise to you, Angelica..." He stood, hands resting on her shoulders. "It is a promise I will not break." He vowed. Aurora smiled up at him, tilting her head up so she could look at him. "I know. I trust you, Malphas." She smiled, moving from the chair in front of her vanity to embrace him, planting a soft kiss on the side of his face before moving towards the bed, gently tugging his hand. "Come to bed." She murmured, eyes growing heavy with tiredness. She bit back a small yawn as she climbed onto her side of the bed, quick to press her face against the cold sheets.

She felt the mattress dip slightly as Sebastian laid beside her. She looked up at him, smiling as he gazed at her tenderly. "Rest darling." He murmured. "I'll keep you safe." His words became a comforting blanket, and she let sleep begin to overtake her. "Don't let me sleep... too long..." She yawned, feeling more drowsy as Sebastian brushed a lock of her blonde curls back behind her ear.

"Rest." He repeated, "I will keep a close watch over you. Of that you have my word."

Aurora hummed, sleepily tossing her arm out towards him, palm outstretched. "Promise?" She mumbled. She smiled as she felt his firm squeeze as consciousness left her.

"I promise."

Rain pattered against the windows of the Phantomhive manor, a loud crash of thunder and lightning following shortly after drawing Aurora from her sleep. Her eyes shot open at the sound, and she felt someone squeeze her hand. "Relax, love. It's just a storm." Aurora's eyes focused on him as she began to fully awaken.

Sebastian was just as he had been the night before, holding her hand tightly in his, and watching her with lidded eyes. The only significant difference this morning was the tiny black pelt of Noire draped around the crook of his neck like a furry scarf.

Aurora smirked, "Are you aware that you have a kitten around your neck?" Sebastian grinned, "I am." He reached up, scratching Noire's back, drawing small purrs from the kitten. Aurora hummed, "You two are adorable." She sighed, "I would kiss you, but I think the cat would protest." Sebastian smiled, "Ah, a pity. I do love your kisses."

The blonde sat up, stretching her spine, and glancing at the window. The drapes hadn't been pulled open since last night, though even with them closed, Aurora's immortal hearing could already tell her that it was pouring rain outside.

"How much rain are we supposed to get?" She asked Sebastian. "We had one sunny day and now it's back to the rain." Sebastian smiled, "It will clear up just before noon." He sat up beside her and smiled, "We might have time to take a half day trip if you like?" Aurora sighed looking at him, "Ah, but something tells me you have bad news for me." She sat back against the pillows, head turned up to the ceiling. "Tell me. What's the new problem on our list?"

Sebastian hummed, "I wouldn't call it a problem. Rather the young lord has decided upon the date of my upcoming funeral." Aurora frowned. "Oh..." She shut her eyes. "I'd almost forgotten about that..." The last few days rushed through her mind, remembering the grief and heartbreak she'd felt when she thought Sebastian was dead.

Sebastian suddenly squeezed her hand- a tactic to make her forget the pain of those few days.

"It will be taking place first thing tomorrow morning. It should only last about two hours or so." He cupped her face, "So tonight might I have your assistance in picking out funeral attire?" He smirked, clearly trying to make some sort of light of the situation. It doesn't help at all, and Aurora can feel her eyes watering at the thought. Though as soon as the first diamondesque tear falls, Sebastian catches it on his finger.

"Darling..."

Aurora grimaced, rolling onto her back with a low moan. "I completely forgot we had to do that!" Her hands came to cover her face, and she moaned something incoherent. "Whmbph..." Sebastian only sighed, gently lifting one of her hands so she could speak.

"Repeat that darling?"

He didn't seem to understand. He was being so nonchalant about this, and it was infuriating. Her blue eyes flashed silver and she looked at him, eyes tearing up. "Does it have to be a funeral?" She asked, voice cracking. "You can't just- wake up in the cellar one morning and give everyone a scare during their morning coffee?"

Sebastian sighed, "The death notices have been sent and coffin ordered. It will be a brief ordeal, Angelica, I promise." Aurora snapped, "It may be brief- but that doesn't mean it won't hurt!" She wiped her eyes with the sleeve of her night gown, her arm shaking as she cried. "Brevity does not change the fact that I have to see you dead again! That I have to play the part of a grieving would-be widow!" She was choking on her own tears, and Sebastian watched as her eyes slowly shifted in colour, the bright silver blue decaying to a bleak grey that seemed reminiscent of a bottomless pit of despair.

"I don't want to do it." She whispered, voice cracking in heartbreak. "I don't want to live through that again."

The angel cried, knees tucked to her chest, and her hair a curtain over her face. Sebastian was quiet for a minute, watching as she cried to herself.

She was truly so despaired to lose him...

He could hear the way her heart responded in tandem with her tears, how with each sobbed breath, it stuttered before resuming a slightly rapid beating that slowly fell to the norm. "Angel..." He leaned over, gently tugging Noire from around his neck and setting the cat on Aurora's knees, a small smile pulling at his lips as the feline slid into the blonde's lap, mewling and licking away at her tears with a tiny sandpaper tongue.

Aurora sniffed, holding the kitten close, and glancing at Sebastian as he spoke, "This isn't something I would much like to do either, but it is necessary. And I would like you there." He pulled her gently into his arms and she coughed, body shuddering as she cried. "Why? Why do you want me to be there? Why put me through that?" Sebastian smiled, turning her to face him. "Because my dear...

Who else am I going to hold so tightly when I rise from the dead?"

Aurora buried her face in his shoulder, "As... adorable and romantic as that sounds, watching you be buried alive is anything but." She looked up at him, "I've had to believe you were dead before... I don't want to go through that pain again.." Her grip on Noire tightened a bit, and the small cat struggled in her hands before ultimately biting the blonde's hand and running to Sebastian for refuge. Aurora winced and glanced at the kitten in worry. "Oh... I'm sorry, Noire.."

She sighed, looking back at Sebastian. "When we were... apart for all those many years, there were a lot of things that happened. I don't wish to discuss any of them- but I was tricked into believing my actions had given you a horrific death." She shuddered. "It was vivid. And even pretending you are dead- it's something I don't think I can do." She sighed, "You'll have to tell Ciel I won't-"

She paused for a moment before continuing as if nothing had happened. "-be able to do it. I can't." Sebastian watched her carefully then noticed her twitching hand. "Angelica. Are you alright?" She hummed, "I'm- fine. Why do you ask?"

Sebastian's eyes narrowed, "Your hand." She glanced down and her eyes widened a bit. "Oh." She stared at her hand for a moment longer, watching it twitch about. Sebastian suddenly set his hand atop hers, gently massaging to ease the erratic movements. "Aurora." He said coldly, vermillion eyes glowing faintly. "Look at me."

Aurora hummed, looking at him. "What? I feel fine." Sebastian huffed, "You are not fine. Someone who is fine does not suddenly stare into space, Angelica!" Aurora sighed, "Sebastian, don't worry about me. I'm fine!" She takes a stuttering breath and rakes her fingers through her tangled curls.

"After this- things will go back to how they were! Where we have to hide how we feel, have to hide every affectionate glance... I don't want anyone telling us what's right from wrong, I want to be able to at the very least look at you with no repercussions!" She breathes heavily, it feels like her heart is a thundering herd of wild horses, hooves slamming into the ground with a loud drumming that echoes in her ears. "I don't want to relive the events of the past, I don't want to spend our second chance hiding in fear that your contractor will deem us the way everyone else has! I am sick... of people telling us what we can and cannot do!"

Her body feels like it's shaking when it's not even moving. It's like she can feel her blood boiling. "I don't know what you want- but a life where I have to hide every ounce of emotion is not in my plans! I want to be able to smile at you, I want to be able to be passionate with you- I want so much yet everything is just- Ah!" She climbed out of bed, irritation evident in her step.

"Is it so bad to want things to be different? Is it so bad for me to want you? You left your mate for me, Sebastian- that is not something minor!" She continued pacing and Sebastian watched her with a scrutinising glare. His eyes narrowed as his senses focused onto her racing heartbeat and pulse.

Her blood is pumping far too fast. Her nerves are like fire.

"Angelica."

"-I am not waiting any longer, waiting at this point is becoming pointless! I don't want to rush things..."

She's far too busy ranting about their romance to pay any attention to his quiet warning. Her face reddened to an angry cherry red, and as he makes the decision to go calm her, she cuts off suddenly.

"...Rushing this will only lead to-"

Aurora stopped. She squints her eyes as if the light from the fire in the room is far too bright. There's a momentary pause as she takes a small step back, her legs beginning to tremble before they give out underneath her.

She falls.

Sebastian snarled, diving forward to catch her, shielding her head from impacting on the wooden floor. "Angelica!"

Aurora whimpered, biting down on her tongue. Her body shook with small tremors, it felt like every one of her nerves was on fire. Tears blurred her eyes, making it hard to focus, and the only thing she could make out was the black blob towering over her, seemingly yelling at her, a smaller blob at it's shoulder. The voice was muffled, and she could barely hear it through the pain. "Angelica! Angelica!"

Her heart drummed in her ears, she could hear the actual beating, rapid and panicked. Aurora ground her teeth together in pain, the pressure feeling like it was growing, surpassing her own pain tolerance, yet when she just thought that her teeth might shatter, the pressure was gone, replaced with the bland taste of bed sheets.

Thank you, Sebastian...

She still writhed in pain, and she cried as if she were being burned. The pounding in her head worsened, and something made her feel dizzy. Her vision became better as Sebastian's thumb wiped away her tears. His vermillion eyes were full of panic. Terror that this might be the moment he loses her.

History will not repeat itself.

As Sebastian seemed to scream at her to stay awake, pleading her to stay with him, Aurora felt a dull ache spread throughout her body. This is it... She warily focused her eyes to his face, I'm sorry mon amour... This seems to be it.

Her body felt numb, like it wasn't even hers. Sebastian was holding one of her shaking hands, in attempts to ease the trembling. Reading his lips was futile, as tears kept blurring her vision that was beginning to fade in and out.

Make it stop... Please make it stop. Aurora wanted to scream as a jolt of pain coursed through her body, and she felt everything for an agonising second before her vision faded completely.

She felt nothing. Almost like she was floating underwater. Everything became nothing. Trapped, in a long moment of darkness where she couldn't see, hear, or feel anything.

Am I dead? Is this finally it? Is this what being dead feels like?

She'd begun to ponder it, just as her hearing began to return.

..ica... Stay..wake....to me!....Stay...

She wanted to smile despite a pit of emptiness in her chest. Am I going to be doomed to hear his pain for all eternity? Hearing him, but never seeing him, or touching him? God... Creator... If I must be punished then so be it...

But please,

do not let him suffer.

She heard his desperate pleas for a few more heart wrenching moments. The sound of it breaking her heart. Suddenly it was as if she'd been thrown forward, through a tunnel that brought her back to the realm of the living.

"Stay with me! Angelica, you won't die on me! Listen to me! Wake up!"

"Wake up!"

Her eyes flew open and feeling flooded through her body. A short gasp, akin to as if she'd been held underwater for a prolonged period of time, escaped her and she sat up, grabbing immediately onto the demon's forearms. Her nails dug into his arms, tearing at the skin as she regained herself, breathing heavily and immediately looking into his eyes.

Wide bright vermillion greeted her. A rare look of fear in his eyes as he stared at her. His lips sealed in a fine line, though they slightly parted when he released the breath he'd been holding. Aurora breathed heavily for a few moments, a shaky hand coming to press against Sebastian's face. Her fingers buzzed against his skin, as if the action shot electricity through him. "Are you hurt?" He managed to ask, his voice shaking. "Does- does anything hurt?"

Aurora shook her head, caressing his face with a gentle hand. "No. I'm alright, Sebastian. I'm alright." She encouraged him as if she were trying to ask a stray cat to trust her, and she sighed as he rested his head on her shoulder. "I'm alright." She promised. "I'm fine."

A low groan that sounded almost like a growl escaped him. "I never should have said anything... I should have known it would alarm you..." Aurora took him by the shoulders and held him at an arm's length.

"Malphas." She looked him in the eyes, so he could see the angelic silver flicker, alongside the faint violet glow around her irises. "Look at me. I'm alive. I'm breathing." She gently guided his right hand to rest over her heart, and his breathing seemed to pick up as he felt her beating heart. "See?" She murmured, "I'm safe. A little dizzy maybe, but I'm okay."

Sebastian's eyes locked onto hers. "Your heart stopped." he said, voice devoid of emotion. "You were dead." Aurora smiled lovingly, "Maybe." She whispered, "But I'm an arch... Remember? I've died once before. I came back to you then. I came back now. And I will always come back to you." He suddenly pulled her close, locking them in a tight embrace, holding her closely like she might vanish if he let her go.

Aurora nestled her face into the crook of his neck. "Death will not stop me," she whispered, "Nothing will ever stop me from coming to you. I promise." Her arms tightened around him. "I promise."

Despite his calmness, she could hear his heart beating furiously within his chest, the pungent scent of fear radiating from him, and she squeezed his arm in reassurance. "You don't have to worry," She murmured, "I'm fine now." Sebastian scoffed, holding her tighter. "I find it ironic you are saying that you feel perfectly fine after dying."

Aurora smiled, chuckling a bit, "I suppose it is." She slowly pulled from their embrace, running a hand through his dark locks. As much as she disliked the length, she would have definitely missed feeling the softness and the soft scent of rosewood. She smirked, "Though I have to admit, it's strange suddenly feeling relatively fine. I could race you to the ends of the earth if I wanted."

Sebastian hummed, sitting up and stretching, "You will do no such thing," he scolded, "You need rest. Once you regain your strength-"

"But there is no strength to regain!" She argued, "I'm fine!"

"Just because you feel fine does not mean that you are fine." Sebastian sighed, "However, I know convincing you to adhere to my advice is useless. So at the very least, please tell me if you feel tired, or are in pain." Aurora grinned, pecking him on the lips. "Promise!" She chirped, and in barely a second she was in front of the closet, holding up a tie in each hand, "Now, why don't we look at clothes for you? I think we should be matching in a sense. Though you shouldn't wear something obnoxious..."

Sebastian smiled at the sight of her, happy and rambling about something as simple as clothes. He hadn't seen her like this in some time. There was a hint of sorrow in her voice, but it was washed out by the girlish tone she carried.

"...and what if you wear those cufflinks your sister got you? The Obsidian ones?"

Sebastian smiled, his form leaning on the mahogany post of the canopy bed. "Perhaps." He said, hand busy stroking Noire curled up in his arms. "The cufflinks wouldn't be too much, but they would most definitely stand out." Aurora hummed, casting him a sweet smile, "Exactly. And with one of your nicer black ties, I think you will look rather dashing."

She sighed, reaching out to toy with his hair. "If anything I think it is your hair that will pose the greatest issue." Her lover frowned. "How so?"

Aurora eyed his black fringe, humming softly. "Styling it adequately for a funeral. Unless you would prefer to have this long fringe that I have regretfully grown... accustomed to." Sebastian feigned offence, "My, I had no idea that you disliked my hair so much." Aurora smirked, "I wouldn't say I dislike as much as I did before. But if it were up to me, I might take off an inch. Or part it differently..." She smiled, catching him by the arm. "Actually, that gives me an idea. Come. Sit."

Sebastian smiled as she dragged him to the vanity. "What are you plotting, my dear?" Aurora smirked, "Oh not much. I'm just going to fix this bird's nest you have on your head." He chuckled, leaning back, head bent over the back of the chair. "So my hair is a bird's nest?" Aurora smiled, dipping down to kiss him. "A bit of one, yes. If I was to be completely honest, it looks a bit like a mop..."

She straightened his head so he looked forward. "Now hush. Let me work." Sebastian's brow furrowed in mock doubt. "Hah... Should I pray you don't butcher my hair completely?" Aurora rolled her eyes, "Oh shush. I am perfectly able to style your hair."

"Says the angel who could never manage her own hair."

Aurora teasingly swatted his arm. "I will pretend I did not hear that." She sighed, "Are you sure that I can't cut it a bit?" Sebastian smiled, "Very well. You may cut. But no more than an inch." Aurora grinned, kissing his cheek.

"I love you."

He felt her presence behind him, heard the quiet little squeal of excitement that would have gone blind to human ears. He shut his eyes as she began combing her fingers through his hair, her nails occasionally grazing his scalp. She started to hum to herself, quietly, as she parted his hair all sorts of ways.

So this is how it felt to be on the receiving end of such treatment.

It was no wonder both she and his sister had always been adamant about having someone to play with their hair. Her hand came over his cheek, fingertips gliding gently across to turn him to face her. The demon's eyes opened slowly, resting on his lover's pretty silver flecked blue.

She has the stars in her eyes.

It was something he'd teased her about once, and it was the first thing that came to mind when her eyes reflected off a bright light. Right now, her eyes reflected off of the fire and occasional strike of lightning from outside.

Wordlessly reaching up, Sebastian's hand tangled itself into her hair, undoing the curled braid he'd done for her earlier, and guided her down to meet his lips. She sighed into him, deepening the kiss briefly before slowly pulling back.

She came around from the back of the chair, seating herself in his lap, occupying herself with his hair once more. He couldn't help but watch the way her chest moved as she hummed quietly before eventually making the soft lyrics of her hymn known to him.

"Et je te mettrais à l'abri de tout mal

Si tu restais à côté de moi

Je n'ai pas besoin d'anneaux d'or

Je ne me soucie pas de ta poésie...

pour la danse et le rêve"

Sebastian hummed, "What are you singing mon ange?" She smiled, "Honestly I don't even know. It just... came to me." She sighed, "I can stop if-"

"No." Sebastian cut her off, "Please, continue, angel." His hand raked through her curls, and he grinned as she shuddered at his touch, her breath catching in her throat and fingers digging into his shoulders.

"Malphas..."

"Come here, darling."

Aurora sighed, leaning further into him, head against his. "Malphas..." Her body gave a short twitch as his hands clasped around her waist, pulling her tight against him. She could feel his breath, hot against her face, turning her fair skin bright red- tinting it with the shades of lust. She tried to ignore the feeling of his hands on her, fingers running playfully along her spine.

Each touch on her skin felt like tiny shocks of electricity, each one drawing her further into his embrace. Her breath hitched as she felt his mouth dance around her collarbone, pressing soft delicate kisses to her skin. His lips dragged across her skin, claiming it as his own.

Aurora's eyelashes fluttered, almost consumed by the pleasure. His hands mapping out every inch of her body, determined to remember every part, and not once did he remove them. He pulled her further into his lap so that she straddled him, his hands- bare of their usual gloves, fingers stroking gently over her tailbone.

She rested her head against his, smiling as he decorated her shoulders with tender kisses. "Hmm, and you have always said it was I who couldn't get enough of you..." He made a sound that was somewhere between an affectionate hum and a playful growl, "To be fair, neither of us can get enough of the other." He chuckled against her ear, tongue flicking out to tickle her ear lobe.

"To be frank... I'm surprised we made it so long without each other."

Aurora hummed, "I wonder the same..." She sighed, hand coming to touch the side of his face. "But how could I have ever forgotten you?" She whispered. "Even magic... has limitations. So how is it even possible?"

Neither answered the question, and she sighed, sliding out of his lap to put away the comb and scissors.

Sebastian took the chance to look at himself in the reflection of the mirror. Surprisingly... Aurora had not done a bad job. In fact, he thought it was much better than what he had initially. The middle part was now slightly off centre, and his fringe now framed his face in luscious locks of ebony.

"I'll admit." He said, abandoning the previous subject. "You did a nice job." Aurora smiled, "Of course I did. I've had to learn from the best." She kissed him on the cheek. She came back to sit herself in his lap, and caressed his cheek, gently brushing a stray lock over his ear.

"Sebastian."

He met her eyes, full attention on her. She sighed, "I want you to know... The only reason I have... refused your proposals... I was scared. Scared because I couldn't remember every second we spent. All I even have now are conversations, images, brief kisses from when we were young..." She took a breath. "What if there's something bad that happened. Something bad that you don't want me to remember? My father was angry enough to steal my record and memories of you. I trusted him- and he- he let me be tortured until I was an inch from death!" She winced at the memory, "And I just have to worry- that what if this is all too good to be true? What if this is an elaborate game? A game that I... am always a victim to."

The demon's eyes softened as he reached out fingers dancing over her skin, catching her falling tears like dewdrops upon the tips of his thumb. "Darling. I know." She sniffed, leaning into him with tears still rolling down her cheeks. He hummed in slight amusement, holding her face tenderly in one hand. "You truly believe that I cannot read you after all these years?"

She sighed. He knows me far too well. Aurora looked up at him, and he smiled. "We have eternity, my angel. We have forever."

Aurora smiled. "We do... Don't we?" She held his hand, "Bash... Can you promise me something?" He squeezed her hand in silent response. "Can you promise... that no matter what happens, no matter what has happened, you will love me?" Sebastian tilted her chin up. "Does something bother you?" When she didn't meet his eyes, Sebastian frowned, "Angelica. You can trust me, you know I would never-"

"It is unforgivable!" She whispered harshly. "It is completely unforgivable, what I've done..." She tensed. "I don't deserve you. I don't deserve what we have." Sebastian frowned, "Darling, whatever it is-"

She snapped, "Sebastian, I cannot speak of it, it was so horrible! And I will always know, always remember it! And it tears me apart because you love me and I don't deserve it-"

He suddenly turned her, his hand gripping her chin in a cold grip, and he cast her a stern look. "Angelica." He murmured, voice no longer sweet and calm, rather replaced with a strict tone he used only for Ciel when he tutored the boy. "It is in the past. Therefore, it is irrelevant to me now." Aurora winced, "Can you promise that? That even if I never breathe a word of it to you, it won't hurt us?"

A charming smile decorated his lips as he pulled her close into his arms. "Of course not, my love... You needn't worry about a thing. Just focus on the present, not the past. Not if it brings you such pain."

He gently pried her arms from around his neck, and held her hands tightly against his chest.

"Angelica, darling, let's promise each other something, hmm?"

She nodded, wiping her eyes. "Of course.. Anything."

His lips pressed against her skin, something akin to butterfly kisses, Aurora thought, still clinging to him, trying to will away the thoughts that plagued her mind, to focus on him instead. "Promise me," he murmured, fingers finding their place in her long curls, "That we'll start over. What happened in the past is irrelevant. All that matters now is what is currently happening."

She jumped as his fangs nipped teasingly at her neck. "Promise me that, and all is forgiven." Aurora stopped. Resting her forehead against his and looking into his eyes. "And you will never press me for information? On what it is that ails me?"

He smiled, "Never."

Something in his devilish smirk had her doubting him. She supposed it was a natural instinct, demons were generally untrustworthy.

But not him.

He was different. He was always different.

Every bone in her body warned against it. Every fibre of her being cried that he wasn't the same demon she'd met so long ago in their little piece of paradise.

So when she kissed him and promised to let the past lie in the past, she missed the mischievous smirk that flickered briefly over his lips and then onto her own.

-

He watched her sleep.

It wasn't anything out of the ordinary, he'd always observed her in sleep. Wondered how a being like her could rest so peacefully.

His own kind never did.

Even fledglings who had done no wrong never slept soundly.

So when she'd finally fallen victim to sleep, he watched her. Curled up in what was currently their bed, (a term he was growing quickly fond of), Aurora was surrounded by cats. Noire in the meantime had planted herself in his own lap, purring contently as he ran his hand down the feline's spine.

His beloved angel still slept somewhat soundly- albeit from the occasional grimace in her sleep, she seemed fine. He suspected her brief... death had been the final threshold, turning her fully into a Fallen. He'd yet to have a good look at her eyes, waiting to see if that demonic glow overwhelmed the angelic.

When she started tossing and turning, his attention was on her once more. Soft murmurs escaped her as she cried out in her sleep, fingers pawing at the pillow beside her.

Sebastian frowned at her, sitting on the edge of the bed, watching as she fought against whatever nightmare plagued her. Her nails seemed to become the claws of their shared bundle of cats as they dug into the pillow case, face twisting in pain as her mouth moved in silent whispers.

He couldn't make out what she was saying, aside from his name once or twice. Still, he made no moves to wake her. Her body was twitching every so often, and soft cries started to escape her. Despite the heavy feeling in his chest, he did nothing.

He couldn't.

Whatever nightmare her mind had concocted was just that, a nightmare. She needed sleep, no matter how restless it might seem. The hellish vermillion in the demon's eyes sparked when he noticed her breathing change, and a moment later the pair of silver coins flew open, locked on him.

He noticed the faint ring of violet around her silver irises, but when she blinked, the violet disappeared, leaving only the bright angelic silver. Her eyes were glassy, but she quickly blinked it away and tucked her knees to her chest, pulling one of the cats close to her.

"Nightmares?" Sebastian asked gently.

The angel remained quiet.

"Darling?" He leaned forward, setting a hand on her knee. "Are you alright?" Her breath hitched and she looked up at him, a look of utter despair on her face. "Promise me something..." She whispered, "Can you do that?"

He smiled. "Anything, my dear. Whatever you need."

Aurora's eyes narrowed, tears rolling down her cheeks as she fought to calm herself. "Never let me fall asleep. Never again. It- I- I can't live through that again..."

Sebastian frowned, setting Noire aside and pulling the blonde into his arms. "Nightmares?" He asked. Aurora nodded, shuddering at the memory of the horror her mind concocted. "I never want to sleep again..." She whispered, voice hoarse and cracking with a hint of desperation. "I'm afraid I cannot abide by your request, my dear. Not letting you sleep will bring you harm." He tilted her chin up and kissed away one of her tears. "But what I can do is stay close and wake you the moment you fall into despair. However, you know I will not always be able to hold you when you sleep."

Aurora nodded, "I know." She whispered. "I just can't face that again. It was... It was awful." Sebastian nodded, beginning to stroke her hair. "It's an affliction that demons and Fallen all share." Aurora hummed, "How do you manage it?" Sebastian smiled, "Simply by never sleeping." He sighed, "However, that is not a possibility for you." He pulled closer into his arms, beginning a gentle massage on her back. "Some Fallen, like your mother, take draughts to help the nightmares. I have no reason to believe that they work, I've found more... relaxing things that tend to help."

She glanced back at him, "Like what?" Her eyes widened as he turned her head back facing forward. "It can be anything that brings you genuine comfort. Always you want to have the most comforting so I generally choose what makes me most comfortable." He continued his massage on her shoulders, moving gently along her spine, careful of her wing sheathe. Aurora sighed, relaxing under his careful touch. "And what would that be?" He smirked. "I find a certain blonde most comforting." Aurora smiled. "An angel's aura is known to emit a comforting sensation." Sebastian held her closer. "That may be true, but like I told you- there are exceptions to demons and sleep." He hummed, "Though there is one I lacked to mention.."

His lips pressed in soft kisses along her neck and shoulders. "Demons suffer endless nightmares, but there's one exception that is capable of eliminating them completely." He smiled, lips coming to rest over her ear. "When a demon finds a suitable partner of sorts, or something they care genuinely about." He smiled, "I've often used cats as a foil, but ultimately, my dear, that honour is entirely yours."

Aurora smiled, "So I'm your partner now?" Sebastian smirked, "Partner, companion, lover... So many terms apply in our case, there is no right or wrong answer." He laid her down on her stomach, straddling her as he massaged her back and shoulders. She hummed as he leaned over her, kissing along her spine. "But most importantly my angel, know this- "I will never force you into something. Will never put you in harm's way, and never let you succumb to the darkness of your own mind." He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, affectionately, as if romantic relations between them had never existed and she was nothing more than a dear friend. "I promise you, I vow to you- I will always protect you."

This time, he tilted her chin up, her eyes meeting his for a brief moment, consumed by what she could only describe as a dangerous blend of love and lust. Aurora's lips ghosted over the side of his face. "You promise?" She whispered, shifting her position so she faced him, her head nestled in the pillows.

A grin crept across Sebastian's face and his fingers threaded through her hair, holding tight onto the roots, drawing a soft groan from her. "I'd protect you with my life," he purred, "Anything for you, darling. Simply ask and it shall be yours." Smiling, Aurora let her head rest on his shoulder, giggling just a bit. "You always make me promises..."

Catching the side of her neck in a hot kiss, he chuckled, "And I always keep them."

She smiled teasingly, "You haven't married me yet..." Sebastian paused then lifted his head up to meet her eyes, his own glowing with vermillion hellfire.

"Who says that I haven't been planning it?"

Aurora smirked, "You're planning a wedding already? Why Sebastian, we aren't even engaged." She gasped as he suddenly pinned her, a teasing smirk on his lips. "True." He said, "But I plan to remedy that as soon as possible."

She hummed, "Really?" Sebastian smiled slyly as he laid down beside her, he let his hand wander into her blonde curls. "Perhaps."

He was teasing her.

Aurora grinned, "Stop teasing! Are you really?" He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. "You were the one who wanted to wait a bit and be surprised." He hummed, "I have a few ideas," he admitted, "Nothing is set in stone yet."

She sighed, rolling her eyes teasingly, "When I finally make up my mind you don't have a proposal. I must say I'm shocked." She swung a leg over his waist and sat on top of him, hands resting on his chest. "Did we ever talk about this when we were young?" She asked, "I mean- I know I definitely thought about it, but..."

The demon chuckled, hand reaching up to caress the side of her face. "Plenty of times. After I first kissed you, you brought it up when we met again." She frowned, "Why the next time we met?"

He hummed, "I went on contract after that. I was gone for a year or two. However, we did write to each other." He sat up, her still in his lap, and reached onto the bedside table and thumbed through the letters until he found the desired dates. "Ah, here they are." He pulled a thick pile of small letters and handed them to her, setting the rest aside.

Aurora stared at the frayed pages and slowly began to read.

-

Meet me by the lake.

It was all his note had said. Angelica had been waiting for a response from him for some time. The demon had been on a contract, and the past year they'd been exchanging letters. The last time they met there, he'd kissed her. Her hand subconsciously wandered to her lips, and she remembered how she'd swooned over it for the weeks after. Since then, she'd ignored poor Raphael's attempts at courting her, instead opting to spend her days resting in the nook within her window, curled up there with a spellbook her mother had given her with a wing dragging along the ground.

The moment the black crow had come to her window, she'd opened the window and sat on the bed, happily reading the letter while she petted the bird that rested on her knee. She'd sent a reply straight away- and after treating the little messenger to a snack, she'd dressed and rushed from her room straight away, halting as she ran into Lucian and her father in the hallway.

Lucian blinked at her in disbelief. "Princess," he said surprised, pausing from where he'd previously been reading from a scroll, several more stuffed under his arm. "What are you doing out of your room?" He caught a glimpse of the bag slung over her shoulder. "And.. with that?"

The young angeless shrunk back a bit as her father turned to glare at her. "Where do you think you're going?" he demanded. "You know you're only meant to leave with Lucian." Angelica swallowed, "I- I was going to get more books from the library and I thought taking a bag would make it easier." Her father eyed her suspiciously. "Is that so?" He questioned. Angelica nodded, "Mhmm."

The Arch's wings flared a bit, making him look a bit taller as he scrutinised his daughter. "What is that on your face?" He came forward and gripped her harshly by the chin, glaring at her face. "Do you have... freckles?" Lucian came over and eyed the younger girl, "You've been inside," he said, "How could you have gotten freckles?"

Angelica swallowed, "I- I've been reading in the window?" Lucian hummed, "It's a possibility, though you may just take after your mother." Lucian glanced at the Arch, "Lady Luciana has freckles, does she not?" The Arch scowled, "Unfortunately." He glared at his daughter, "Make sure you cover those up, Creator forbid anyone see you with them."

Angelica bowed her head, "Yes, father."

"And where is your pretty ribbon? You aren't wearing it?"

Angelica shrugged, "I'm not a cherub anymore. I think I'm getting a little old for silly ribbons, don't you, Papa?" The Arch hummed, "If you are too old for ribbons and flats then perhaps it's time we start letting you and Raphy take the next step." Her eyes widened in horror, "Papa no! Raphy's like a brother! I don't want to marry him!"

"Enough." Her father glared, "I won't draw up any binding documents yet, just know it's coming. You are far luckier than most, you at least get to meet your consort." He sighed, "Now I have no time to mind your silly little games, Angelica. Lucian, the scroll, if you please."

"Yes, Arch Laverne." Angelica watched as the elder angel handed the scroll to her father, who then glanced over it and turned the other direction, "I will finish this in my office. Lucian, do watch over the young princess, ensure she has everything she needs." Angelica's heart dropped into her stomach as her father parted from the room without so much as a goodbye.

Lucian sighed and looked down at her, "A bag for books? That's truly the best you could come up with, dove?" Angelica rolled her eyes and thrust the bag at him. "Books. Now." Lucian scoffed, "Right. What is it I'm really getting you?" Angelica sighed, "Come on, Lu. Can't a girl have a little privacy?" He laughed, "You don't have much privacy, my lady. My apologies." Angelica sighed, taking the bag from him. "I'll just go get some books and return to my room then."

Lucian smiled smugly and followed after her. "What do you do in that room all day? I can't imagine you thumb your way through books. And when you came rushing out you looked ecstatic! Surely a book cannot be the cause for that?" Angelica spun around. "It can!" She argued, "Books can be quite- interesting if you take the time to actually read them!"

She threw open the library doors, her eyes scanning the shelves for a book she possibly hadn't read yet. Lucian stepped in after her. "Any particular book, my lady?" She thought for a moment. "Something new." She said at last, "I've read the same books for the past year. I want something new." Lucian sighed, beginning to rummage through shelves. As he did so, Angelica carefully backed toward the library door before hurrying back to her room and locking the door behind her. Without a second thought, she pushed open the windows and swung her legs outside before taking flight.

She flew down a ways, stopping on a nearby cloud to catch her breath and wait to see if someone had followed. When she was satisfied, she continued down to the lake, landing gracefully and quick to fix her satchel and looking around the clearing and the lake.

"Malphas?" She called, looking around for the demon. The clearing was silent and she frowned, going to sit on the rock, examining her reflection in the small pool beneath her. Scouring it for any imperfections, she frowned at the sight of the growing freckles. She never thought they suited her. Her mother had a light dusting, the Fallen Angel taking the appearance of a half Irish half Russian woman. Angelica whined to herself, tugging her curls over her face. Her father had always said freckles were unappealing. When he'd seen it he'd been so... disgusted.

She reached into her bag and pulled out a bit of powder, hoping to cover it before the demon arrived. Her hopes were dashed as his scent filled the air. She shoved the powder into the bag and turned to face him just as he came over. He looked older. Granted she supposed she must have to, wings and body more developed than when he'd last saw her.

"You've grown." She murmured.

"So have you." He replied, eyes scanning her form before locking onto her eyes again. He took another few steps forward, and she wasted no time in launching herself off the rock to hug him, burying her face in the crook of his neck. "I missed you," she whispered, "I thought of you every day, every night..." Her demon's arms wrapped tightly around her. "I thought of you the entire time."

He pulled away to look at her and he smiled, "Since when did you get freckles?" Her face reddened and she wrenched away from him, "Don't look! Sorry! I thought I hid them well enough!" Malphas frowned, "Hide them? Why ever so?"

She swallowed, "Well, father said-"

"I happen to think they're adorable." He smirked, "They suit you. Compliment your eyes." She blushed and leaned back into him. "Of course only you would say that." She glanced up at him, "You really like them?" Malphas cupped her face, leaning in and pressing soft butterfly kisses to each one of her freckles.

"I love them."

-

In the morning..

"Are you sure you are alright with this?" Sebastian glanced back at his lover as she sat on the edge of the bed the next morning, dressed in a black mourning gown. "I'll manage," she said slowly. "It will only be brief, the priest will say a few words, and the coffin will be carried to the grave. I can only thank the Creator that this won't be a full noble's service." She shuddered, "I couldn't sit through forty five minutes of you being a corpse."

Sebastian sighed, coming over to kiss her. "Things will be normal before you know it." She sighed, getting up and wrapping her arms around his neck, hanging there for a minute as he fixed his tie. "With the exception of our affair being known." She glanced up at him, "At least now I can kiss you in public."

Sebastian hummed, pressing his lips to hers. "I can hardly wait." He finished with his tie and then looked back at her. "Are you ready?" Aurora smirked, "As if I could ever be ready for this." She sighed, taking his hand and giving it a short squeeze. "What happens now?" Sebastian sighed, "Unfortunately, this is where I leave you. I was instructed to go to the Undertaker's and be prepared for the coffin."

The blonde's eyes shot up. "Can I not come with you? Please?" He tilted her chin up, "Now darling, the young lord needs someone to tend to him." Aurora narrowed her eyes, "Oh don't you know? After this I probably won't have a job! And it wouldn't be out of place for me to go with you. Odds are I would try and be as close to you as possible."

Sebastian sighed, glancing at the clock seated atop the fireplace. "We are rather early... And the young lord did not give you any direct order not to follow me..." Aurora grinned, hanging more heavily on him. "I love you." He sighed, lifting her hand from his shoulder. "And I, you, my dear." He pressed a kiss to the back of her hand, holding it tight for a moment, staring at her in the reflection of the mirror. "Might I try pinning your hair? Over your shoulder perhaps?" Aurora smirked, "I thought you liked it loose?" Sebastian hummed, "I do, Especially when those lovely curls are spread as far as your legs..." Aurora blushed, swatting his hand as she pulled away from him. "You can be so lewd sometimes." Sebastian smirked, "Only for you, love."

She sighed, fixing the cuffs of her sleeves, she hummed to herself as she snapped her fingers, frowning when she remembered her lack of angelic magic. "Malphas," she called, "Could you snap a line of four pearls onto the cuffs of this dress? It looks so drab without them." Sebastian glanced over his shoulder, "It's a mourning dress, it's supposed to be drab."

His lover whined, "This is so unfair! Why is it that Fallen can no longer do Angelic magic? I'm essentially useless!" Sebastian smiled, "Don't fret yet, my dear. We've yet to see if you're able to wield demonic magic." He came over and took her wrist in his hand, his fingers dancing along the cuffs, letting her watch as a string of four small pearls appeared.

"I'm sure I'm not suited for it." She said, smiling at the sight of the pearls. "My mother tried to teach it to me once. Naturally my father was furious." She frowned, "She gave me a spellbook for my birthday one year, though I've no idea where it is now." She sighed, "Probably gathering dust somewhere on a shelf now."

Sebastian smirked, "If it's a spellbook you want, it's a spellbook you shall get. I can make arrangements to get one for you if you wish?" Aurora smiled, "Perhaps another time." She stopped to eye him. "You look good." She smirked, "For a man that's supposed to be a corpse that is."

The demon pulled her close, "Oh darling, you wound me." Aurora giggled holding tight onto him. "Stop it! We have to get going!" She rested her head against his, letting her hand caress the side of his face, relishing in the feeling of warmth that came from him. "You're warmer than usual."

Sebastian frowned, "Hm?" Aurora's palm pressed against his skin, he could feel her heartbeat against his face, the demon subconsciously letting his own breath become one with her beating heart. "When I came back to you," She murmured, "Your skin felt so cold. You were only warmed by me." A smile cracked across her lips. "Now it's you who's keeping me warm."

She slowly pulled away, until her hand rested atop his. "Come," she whispered, "If we want to be on time we need to leave now."

-

"Something on your mind, dearie?" Undertaker asked, as Aurora watched Sebastian climb into the coffin. The mortician looking up at her with his usual wide smile. The Fallen frowned, leaning against the doorway. "Couldn't you put something in with him?" She asked, "Make him look less... dead?" Sebastian sat up, "Darling-"

She sighed, "I know you're meant to be- but couldn't we make it a little less of a box? Flower petals or something?"

Sebastian hummed, "Not a bad idea," he looked at the Undertaker, "Is that doable?" The mortician smiled, "It'd be a lovely touch, but I don't have anything ready." Aurora sighed, closing her eyes. "Must I do everything?" She snapped her fingers with the intent to fill the coffin with white rose petals before she scowled remembering her lack of magic.

"Ugh! Bash, you'll have to do it. I was thinking white rose petals." An instant later the coffin was filled with them, and Aurora sighed, "I hope that's at least more comfortable?" Sebastian smiled, "It's perfect, darling." He noticed how she was biting her tongue as she stared at the coffin. "Angelica."

Her eyes shot back up to meet his, She sniffed and walked over to his side, hugging him tightly as she forced back tears. "I'm sorry- I just- it's hard to see you in.. that." He caught her chin, "Are you certain you are able to be there? You can stay at the manor if you wish."

Aurora shook her head, "I have to be there." She smiled, "Besides, I want to kiss you the moment you're alive again." The Undertaker was heaving the cover over and chuckled, "Have to wait a bit till then, dearie. Say your last goodbyes."

Aurora sighed, watching the demon settle into the coffin. "I'll see you in an hour or two, mon amour." Sebastian smiled, "Of course, darling." She leaned down to kiss him before leaving the shop and taking the shortcut down the alley (being sure to give the cats that resided there a few biscuits- courtesy of the Undertaker) and made her way down the road to the church to wait for the Phantomhive carriage.

As expected, it arrived not a moment sooner, and Finny and Mey-Rin crashed into her, squeezing tightly.

"Oh Miss Aurora!"

"Poor Sebastian!"

Aurora swallowed. "I..."

"Hey! You two- give her some space!" Bard said, making sure the two stepped back before approaching her. "How are you holding up?" He asked. Aurora sighed, "Well enough. I think I've cried out all my tears, but then every time I'm certain I have, more just follow." She smiled at him, "How are things with you three?"

Bard hummed, "Other two have taken it a bit hard, but we're holdin' up. Sebastian would've wanted it like that." Aurora smiled, "He would, wouldn't he?" She sighed, "I can only thank the young lord for granting me access to the guest quarters, it wasn't... a good few days." She sighed, "I did manage to spend some time on the terrace, but it's not the same without him." She bit back a smile, "You know, almost like I could feel him there with me. Holding me when I needed him." Bard nodded, "That's how grief works. Feels like they're right there with you sometimes."

She nodded, "Always. I can't see it getting better with time. I thought of him every moment we were separated."

An image flashed through her mind and she winced, hand coming to her head, rubbing to ease the sudden pang.

"Aurora? You alright?"

She nodded, "Fine... Just- my head hurt for a moment."

She glanced up again as Tanaka came forward with Ciel and his guests. The blonde stilled as she was immediately greeted by a sobbing Lady Elizabeth and Prince Soma.

"Oh Aurora! It's awful!" Lady Elizabeth wailed, "You must be heartbroken!" Aurora forced a solemn smile, "A bit, yes... I suppose..." She wracked her brain, annoyed to find the one time she couldn't cry was right now.

Until the Undertaker arrived with the coffin.

Then they poured.

The entire duration of the church ceremony, Agni and the Phantomhive servants were sitting next to her, attempting to ease her sobs. Her cries didn't seem to cease until they began the procession to the graveyard, though it was more replaced by a feeling of sick dread knowing that Sebastian was about to be buried alive.

She walked just behind Ciel and Elizabeth, Agni beside her as they followed the procession to the graveyard. "My deepest condolences, Miss Magne." Agni said solemnly, "Sebastian was an excellent butler." Aurora smiled, "He was, thank you Agni. I'm going to miss him for a long time." She stared ahead at the coffin. "I almost wonder if he'll walk out of the shadows, laughing that it was some cruel joke of his."

Another image shot through her skull, making her bite down hard on her tongue to alleviate the pain. "If only." Agni murmured, "What do you suppose you will do now?" Aurora hummed, "I'm uncertain. Perhaps I'll return home, perhaps I'll stay in London. Maybe I will travel."

She smirked, "So many possibilities." As Agni stepped forward then to help lower the coffin into the ground, Aurora could feel herself shaking before hot tears rolled down her cheeks. "Aurora?" Ciel spoke to her at last, and she felt herself give a small sob before dropping to the ground, palms digging into the dirt, and the skirts of her dress covered in mud.

He's not dead, he's not dead...

Even the quiet reassurances that he was alive and breathing in the coffin weren't enough to soothe her. Finny and Mey-Rin were by her side in an instant, soothing her cries as the coffin was buried.

Ring the bell, Malphas...

Ring the bell already, please...

Please...

Another silent moment of her tears and the breeze blowing had the bell ringing. As Finny and Mey rushed to dig up the grave, she visibly relaxed, gathering herself as they ripped up the dirt. She was shakily standing up just as her demon threw the lid off the coffin.

When he sat up, she didn't hesitate to rush forward and throw herself into the box with him, sending rose petals scattering all over. Sebastian laughed, hand coming around her back to hold her close.

"Couldn't wait for me to get out?" He murmured, and she shook her head, "No..."

She sat back on his lap, wiping the tears from her eyes, though they still spilled regardless. "I- I pictured jumping into your arms and just kissing you- but I couldn't wait any longer." Sebastian tugged her closer, "Mmm, well you can kiss me now."

She grinned, wrapping her arms around his neck, "I plan on it, mon amour."

As her lips slammed against his, he pulled her back down into the casket, sending more petals flying. As petals swept past her eyes mid kiss, and she could have sworn something about this kiss felt different. Pressing her mouth harder against his, desperate to get more of the feeling he was offering her, she cupped his face, holding him in place.

He broke the kiss briefly, lips still ghosting over her own. "What is it, angel?" Aurora grinned, "I could kiss you like this forever." She kissed him again, smiling as the feeling returned, alongside a flicker of an image.

The two of them, hand in hand, a set of matching rings on their fingers, with each other's respective marks lit upon the back of their necks.

Soulmates .

"Are you two quite done?"

They broke apart quickly as Ciel glared down at them, despite the distinct redness of a blush in his face. Lady Elizabeth was some feet away with Mey-Rin, the two sharing some tissues that Agni had on standby.

"Terribly sorry, my lord." Sebastian said, not sounding sorry at all, "I couldn't resist." Aurora hummed, blushing a bright pink as she climbed out of the coffin and then reaching in to help him out. "Remind me when we're in public next time that happens." Sebastian tugged her close and kissed her on the cheek. "Of course, darling."

Ciel came forward, the butler's pin in his hand. "From this moment on, Sebastian, you are my butler once again." Aurora smirked, "Aw, already? A shame, I was looking forward to having him exclusively to myself." Ciel glared, "On the matter of your employment-"

Sebastian shot the boy a look, his eyes narrowed in silent warning. Something the boy seemed to ignore. "You are on a very fine line, Aurora. Give me one more reason, and the oath is finished." Aurora smirked, "Trust me, my lord. I won't." Ciel scoffed, walking back towards Lady Elizabeth and the others. Leaving the couple alone as the sun crept over the horizon.

"Do you think Ciel might give you the day off? You know, settle in and all?"

Sebastian smirked, not at all surprised by her question. "Doubtful. But if you ask in front of the others now..." She grinned, kissing him before regrouping with the others. He followed suit, of course, as any good butler should, walking slowly towards the scene where his master was reluctantly granting the staff the day off.

Snap.

His head shot to the treeline at the noise. Nothing but a few stray rabbits, and a few blackbirds flying.

They only fly when disturbed .

His eyes narrowed, tempted to investigate when Aurora crashed into his arm, pulling him from the scene. "So first I think we should go..." Drowning her out would be pointless, not that he'd want to. With one last glance at the trees, he turned his attention to his lover, the freshly Fallen Angel who was head over heels in love with him, and let her lead him away to whatever her interest peaked.

Leaving his suspicions hiding in the shadows.

-

In the evening...

The sound of wine pouring into a set of six glasses had quickly become the sound of happiness as each of the servants clinked their glasses together, all celebrating the fact that the head butler lived once more. Aurora smiled from her place against Sebastian's chest, happily leaning against him for the first time in the presence of others.

"To Sebastian!" Bard cheered, "Long may he live!"

The butler had a polite smile on his face as he drank from his glass, granted Aurora knew how tasteless it was to him. "Is this the special reserve?" The butler asked. Bard grinned, "Might be!" Aurora glanced up at Sebastian with a sheepish grin, "I might have let Bard have some of the wine provisions you and I share."

Bard grinned, "And what a lovely idea it was, offering to share the alcohol with me." Aurora rolled her eyes, "You've behaved, you didn't set anything on fire this week so I figured you deserved a reward." Bard hummed, "I have haven't I? Even fixed up the kitchen after that last incident." Sebastian narrowed his eyes briefly, eyebrow raised in silent question. The demon could distinctly remember Bard falling asleep halfway through and having to finish it up for him.

"Anyways," the chef grinned at the couple across from him. "When'd the two of you start seeing each other?" Aurora's face reddened and she took a sip of her wine, glancing at Sebastian. "Paris." The butler said plainly, "Aurora started to remember bits and pieces on the boat ride over." The blonde smirked, "We split the bed there, but nothing untoward happened. He finally got the courage at the hotel." Sebastian's eyes widened and shot to hers and her face flushed pink. Mey-Rin laughed, "Oh dear- looks like you can't hold your alcohol!" Aurora shrugged, "I'm not much of a drinker." She took another subconscious sip.

Could have fooled me. Sebastian thought to himself, silently debating if he should pluck the glass from her delicate fingers which had already begun to shake. The housekeeper sighed, "After we came back, the young master and I were wounded in the London fire, I managed to hit my head in the right spot and remembered most things." She sighed, "After that it was more of a matter of keeping things to ourselves. The young lord would have fired me, and at that point neither of us were ready for marriage."

Mey-Rin looked a little surprised. "At that point?" Sebastian glanced over, "As you know by now I'd had a ring made, granted it was ages ago from when we were young." Aurora chimed in, "And after he proposed several times and I refused, we've agreed that if it feels right we'll take the plunge." Finny was bubbling with anticipation- that and the slight dose of wine in his system. "Aw! How cute!"

Aurora sighed, "It may not even be for a while, maybe a year or more." Sebastian eyed her suspiciously, "Is this you admitting you'd prefer to wait?" She glanced back at him, "I am undecided, honestly. I think we'll just know." She took another sip, longer this time, and was half determined not to mention the flickering image in their kiss that morning.

Soulmates. It was a concept as old as time, often a story her mother used to tell. But Aurora had often thought of soulmates as pure fiction, the idea was lovely, but after the way her parents' marriage had ended, the rose coloured glasses had faded, leaving her with the cruel view of reality.

Then she'd nearly beheaded a demon her first time out of the clouds, and he'd changed her entire perception on the matter.

Aurora smiled to herself, swirling the wine in her glass just a bit as she recalled how he'd made her fall so desperately in love with him by just the little things he'd done, the subtle glances he'd sent her way. Even at the beginning there had been moments where she'd found her face flushing pink at the sight of him, at the mere idea of him.

Even now he was still stirring those quaint blushes from her.

"Ho, ho... Even I will admit that you make quite a pair," Tanaka said, his short laugh drawing the attention in the room to him. "Even if such a match would be forbidden under normal circumstances." His eyes set upon Aurora, "I was quite surprised to know that the young master had not terminated your employment, Miss Magne. I am grateful, no doubt, that you have both managed to remain here. I can think of no better butler and housekeeper."

Aurora smiled, "Thank you, Monsieur Tanaka." The old man chuckled to himself, drinking more of his wine. Mey-Rin leaned across the table, "We know how you were reunited, we do- but what's the full story?"

The blonde blushed, smiling. "We met when we were roughly the young master's age. He lived on the estate next to mine."

The carefully crafted tale seemed to marvel at the other servants, and put Finny in tears while Mey-Rin's eyes watered at the touching story. The angel yawned, finishing the story, "Either way... we managed to end up together."

Mey-Rin was gushing, "What a beautiful story, yes it is!"

Sebastian glanced down at the angel, taking note of the growing tiredness in her eyes, and he caught a glimpse of the kitchen clock. "It's late," he said, setting his glass of wine on the table, "Things will be back to usual tomorrow, which means you all need to be up on time." Bard sighed, "S'pose you're right." Sebastian's gaze shot to the other servants. "Finish your tasks for the night and get to your rooms immediately. Lateness will not be tolerated."

He turned to leave, and Bard and Mey-Rin bit back silly grins as the butler's hand snatched the housekeeper's pulling her from the room after him.

"Aren't they cute?" Bard chuckled, "Seems you missed your chance, Mey-Rin." The maroon haired maid blushed, her glasses fogging up a bit.

"Bard!"

"What? It's true!"

Finny piped up, "I think Mister Sebastian and Miss Aurora are real cute together! Makes me think of a fairytale!" Tanaka let out a low chuckle, "Ho, ho... That may be, but we must all realise that not all fairytales have a happy ending."

-

Aurora collapsed onto the bed with a sigh. "I've never wanted to get out of a social situation that much before." Sebastian smirked, "Oh? There weren't any angelic formals you had to attend in your youth? I know we had them in Hell."

The blonde hummed thoughtfully, "Yes, but remember I far too often left in the middle of those to sneak out and see you." Her eyes widened at her own words, and Sebastian smiled, "So you remember that then? How we used to evade the social calendar?"

She paused, "I- I know we did. And I remember it, but it's almost like I wasn't even there."

The demon suddenly towered over her, trapping her on the bed with his arms on either side of her, "You don't remember? Ah, such a pity... We could have had so much fun tonight if you did." Aurora shot him a look, "We haven't even-"

The demon chuckled, walking over to his closet and setting his tailcoat inside, making sure to pet one of the cats. "You misunderstand me, darling, I meant we could have spent the night reminiscing and playing board games."

Aurora scoffed, "I am fairly certain you meant something else." He grinned, "Would I lie to you?" She sat back, mocking as if she were actually giving it some thought. "I suppose not." She sat up in bed, legs folded Indian style as she rocked back and forth a bit, "I've been thinking... You know how you asked me to move into your room with you?"

"Yes, what of it? You aren't having second thoughts are you?"

Aurora grinned, "No, of course not." She sighed laying back into the cotton sheets, "I was just thinking.. why don't we drag my bed in here so it isn't so tight. That way when we're in bed we have some semblance of space." The demon paused, "Then what would the point of moving into my room be?"

She smirked, "I'm still sleeping with you, you silly demon. And the others know, so we don't need to hide anymore." Sebastian frowned at that, much to her surprise. "What? What's with that look?" He glanced back at her, "While it may be common knowledge amongst the household that we are in a relationship, I would advise against any public displays."

Aurora felt a burning sense of rejection, her face falling the instant the words settled in. "Oh..." Sebastian sighed, "It is a security measure, my dear. It may be common knowledge that we are seeing each other, but you do remember the young lord's threat. If guests begin asking questions he may very well act upon it."

She huffed, "Ugh, feels like we're kids again. Only this time we repeat the part I hated the most." She winced, "The lying and sneaking around. Pretending that there is nothing between us." Sebastian glanced at her longingly, "It is most unfortunate, my dear. But know this, every night, every hour, from the moment the sun sets beyond the horizon, until the very moment it returns, I am wholly yours."

Coming forward to cup her face, he smiled down at her, the pad of his thumb caressing her skin. "You and I are meant to be together my dear. We shall be together one way or another, rest assured." He leaned in with the intent to kiss her lightly on the lips when she turned away, curls shielding her eyes from him.

"I don't want this. To be hiding the fact that I love you. You know how much I hated it... How much I hated how we had to hide everything..." Her voice was laced with pain, and she looked up at him, silver blue eyes flickering and looking as if she might cry.

"Angelica..." She glared at him through angry tears, her vision slightly blurred. "I just want to show how much I love you. I want to be like those couples promenading, I want to hold your hand whenever I wish." She shook her head, biting back tears. "I want to be with you, Malphas... I don't want to hide anything anymore."

Sebastian pulled her into his arms. "Angel..." His hands rubbing up and down the blonde's arms, shushing her gently. "Darling, I promise. Soon enough-"

"You have always said that!" She snapped, "All of it! Every day we met in secret, every time I mentioned coming out to everyone about us! Always for our safety, always for the best, always, always always! Tell me, Malphas, are you embarrassed about me? Are you embarrassed that you dared fall in love with an angel?"

Sebastian caught her arms, "No! Of course not, my angel." He pulled her close and took a breath. "Back then, being together could have gotten us killed. Now, it could separate us." He smiled, "But darling, if anyone dared get too close to you, or there was an issue, you can always trust that I will defend you." His hand comfortingly stroked her hair back, "You know that, don't you?" Aurora shut her eyes, nodding slowly. "Yes..."

She sighed, looking up at him. "But why must we always hide? Will there ever be a time where we don't have to hide things between us?" Sebastian's hand on her face had her pressing into him, her eyes fluttering open and shut, almost euphoric at his touch alone. "Soon." He said, kissing her gently. "Now you should rest. It's late. I will watch over you and wake you the moment you start to toss."

Quietly, she nodded, laying back on the bed. "Sebastian? Will you lay down? Just until I fall asleep." He smiled, head dipped in a short nod. "If you would wish it." She watched him as he shed himself of his gloves. Then his tailcoat and tie. She felt herself settle the moment he came to bed, wrapping his arm around her and holding her against him, head rested against hers. "Sleep angel, I will wake you if need be."