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We'll both have to learn things along the way [Skylias & Las_True_Romantic]

last_true_romantic

last_true_romantic

Star
Joined
Sep 23, 2010
Location
Bay Area, CA
This was the day, it was morning and Anthony awoke as the door to his cell opened. Bright light flooded the small four foot by four foot room as the door opened. He sat up on the bad, running his fingers through his hair and then streching his arms. Instinctivly, his hands went to his neck, only to find that the cold metal of the steel choke collar was still around his neck.

"Time to meet your mistress and go to your new home boy." A booming voice of his captor from the doorway called to him. With a sigh, Anthony rose from the bed, he walked to the doorway, his hands held out, slouching, and keeping his eyes on the floor. His captor snapped cuff onto his wrist and a leash to his ollar leading him to the black town car. "You say nothing unless spoken to, or you'll be gagged again." His captor challenged as he closed the door and went to the driver's seat.

It didn't take long at all to drive there, perhaps 10 minutes at most. Though to Anthony, it felt like much more. He couldn't remember much from before being captured by this man, but what he did remember made him cringe. Something about his stepfather oweing money and using him as collateral, that, and his name. His eyes looked out the window and watched the scenery pass by. His eyes grew wide when a rather large amd elegant house came into view.

"Alright, out. Go ring the doorbell while I park." His captor ordered, unlocking the car. With a sad nodd Anthony obeyed and left the car. He walked from the mailbox, where his captor had dropped him off, to the door. He waited a few moments, till he heard the engine die, then rang the bell. He stood on the doorstep, shirtless and in his ratty jeans. His captor being rather cheek, didn't think to supply him with clothes. A moment later his captor was besdie him, takin hold of the leash as he waited for someone to answer the door.
 
White dashed rapidly before Skye's tired-looking eyes as she flipped through the pages of a novel. She sighed, snapping the cover shut and leaning on her knees. She sat on the edge of her queen-size bed in a tastefully decorated room. It had a slightly Victorian feel to it, one that she favored.

Today. The word echoed in Skye's head as she contemplated recent events. Her parents had recently decided she'd finally outgrown her old nannies and deserved a servant to call her own. She'd chosen carefully, taking her time to search her options. She didn't look for the typical, friendly character, and many might even call her foolish for her choice. She'd known at once that he'd be the one she'd take home, quiet and mysterious as he was when she first saw him. Skye had strange feelings towards this unknown figure, so sad in appearance, but she felt potential in him. She was probably taking too much into her hands for the first time, but she knew she would regret any other decision.

The sound of the doorbell interrupted her thoughts, sending her flying off the bed. Already? They'd hardly sent word for him but a few hours before. She felt silly, childish, being nervous to meet someone who was to be nothing more than her servant, and yet her hands fiddled nervously with her hair. Perhaps it was the responsibility going to her mind.

"Felice? Would you get the door?" Her mother's voice called from the study downstairs, where she most often was. Skye didn't see much of her parents. Her father was always here or there, "taking care of business" as he called it, and mother...not much of a mother at all. Skye didn't mind. She preferred spending her time reading or walking through the garden surrounded by her own thoughts to pretending she wanted to be coddled by her family. But duty called. She smoothed her dress, stepping out of her room to overlook the balcony as the old slave made her way to open the doors.
 
“Stand up straight.” The man said, snapping the leash across his backside, like a parent would a belt against a naughty child’s behind. Anthony winced and took in a sharp breath, reluctantly he straightened out his shoulders, but his head remained bowed. The sting stayed with Anthony for a few more long minutes, only beginning to face when the door was answered. When Felice opened the door, his captor, Mr. Simms as he was called, smiled widely. “Nice to see you again Felice. You are looking well.” He snickered as his eyes looked at the woman up and down rather lewdly. Felice had also been one of Mr. Simm’s, he had trained her bewfore Skye’s parents had bought her.

Mr. Simms allowed himself in, tugging roughly on Anthony’s leash. Anthony followed a few steps behind. “Felice, would you tell Ms. Skye that her slave is here.” He asked the female servant as she closed the door behind them. As they waited in the foyer, at the bottom of the stairs, Anthony bit his lip and tried hard to keep quiet. Although he was much stronger and faster than Mr. Simms, there was no way Anthony could escape. For one, he had nowhere to go, and for another, he had guards and dogs that followed them everywhere, and Anthony couldn’t outrun them.

“Ahh, Ms. Skye. I would like to introduce to you your new slave.” Mr. Simms said as Skye made her way down the stairs. “I am honored that you chose to do business with me again. I hope he is to your liking Madame. “ He said with a slight bow, tugging on the leash once more. Anthony took a few steps forward, shuffling his way to the man’s side. “Introduce yourself.” Mr. Simms barked, giving his leash another tug. With his head still hung, he spoke in a deep, sweet, yet slightly husky voice. “My name is Anthony Mistress, I am your new slave. Whatever you wish to call me by, I shall answer.” He said, each word slowly leaving his lips, his reluctantly obvious in his soft tone.
 
Skye's spine stiffened as the pair made their way in the door. She recognized the man leading as the one who showed them around the slave trade at the market. She hadn't like him much, sensing he wasn't the most kind and forgiving man. She couldn't yet see the face of the black-haired figure behind him, who kept his head low, but she knew him all the same. She saw Mr. Simms hadn't bothered to improve his state, half-dressed and ragged as he was. At the mention of her name she started down the stairs, making them aware of her presence.

"Mr. Simms." Skye nodded in his direction. "Thank you for bringing him by...it was most..kind of you." She winced a bit at the sharp jerk he gave to the leash. Silly as it sounded, she felt sorry for the poor thing. He looked as though he hadn't been properly fed or bathed since he'd come into the slave-handler's care. Her heart thudded a bit at the sound of his voice. It surprised her, as she hadn't before heard him speak. "Anthony.." She tasted the name on her tongue, deciding immediately that she liked it. "That will do. Thank you again for making the trip, Mr. Simms. I'm sure Felice will be happy to show you back to the door..if you're done." She tilted her head to the side a bit, holding her a hand open-palmed a few inches from her side for the leash, her meaning spelt clearly in her eyes.

She really wasn't sure what she was doing, but she knew that she hated to appear indecisive in front of this man, and certainly not her new slave. As much as it was unlike her she felt the need to seem in control of the current situation. First thing..get him a bath and some food. Skye made the mental note to herself to hand him over to Felice to take care of this as soon as Mr. Simms had left.
 
Mr. Simms grinned as Skye walked down the steps. He thought her a beautiful young lady, however, he would not press anything since her parents were his best client, and she nearly twenty years younger than him. He was oblivious to the malice in her tone, paying more attention to her soft lips as they formed words. He was quite perturbed when she expressed her want for him to leave, but kept his mouth shut, after all, she was paying quite a bit of money for what he thought was a dirty rat of a boy.

Anthony noticed the slight distaste in her voice as Skye spoke to Mr. Simms. A point on her side, he bit his lip a little harder, trying to keep back a smile. When she repeated his name, it made him feel something, but he couldn’t quite place what the feeling was. His eyes glanced up at her through his shaggy bangs, he had to admit, and she was much prettier than he remembered, but this didn’t make his situation any better at the moment. “You are most welcome Ms. Skye. If there are any problems with him, feel free to call or send him back.” Mr. Simms assured her with another bow of his head. He dropped the leash unceremoniously into her hand.

“Felice, if you will.” He asked the slave woman as he turned on his heel. He disappeared through the tall doors without even a goodbye, showing once more, just how rude of a character he is. When the door closed behind him, Felice made her way back over to Anthony and Skye. “Ms. Skye, is there anything else I can do for you?” She asked, standing beside the beautiful young lady. Anthony simply remained standing still, though now his shoulders were slumping slightly. He kept his head down, knowing it was best not to try her patience, it would make for a bad first impression.
 
Skye's gaze remained on the leash in her half-open hand as she replied, uncertainty apparent in the gesture. "Ahhh, yes. He...Anthony..will be needing a bath. And the clothes I bought. They should be in the washroom, where I left them...I hope you like all black," the last bit being aimed at the sullen figure on the other end of the leash. "My parents' idea...You'll have to settle for it like the other servants." Her lips twisted a bit as she thought. "Food, too, Felice. Just bring it to my room when you're done with him. You are hungry right?"

She didn't wait for an answer, obviously in a hurry to be out of the foyer as she handed him off to the head maid. "Thank you Felice. And Anthony, don't be difficult. I only say it for your own good. She's less frail than she seems." Skye accidentally let a smile slip at the last bit, knowing herself the consequences of being stubborn with Felice.
 
Anthony stood silent and still until she had referred to him. “Thank you Mistress.” He replied to her comment about the clothes and the reason for them having to be all black. He looked up at Skye when she asked him if he was hungry, Anthony was going to answer, however, she did not seem too interested in his answer. He nodded as she warned him not to be difficult. “I will be on my best behavior Mistress, I assure you.” Anthony replied, already thinking about small ways to test his limits. He had not noticed Skye’s smile because he was so absorbed in his own thoughts

Felice took the young man’s leash in her hands and nodded as Skye gave her orders. “Yes Ms. Sky, right away.” She replied once Skye was finished talking. She turned to Anthony, offering a smile. She had seen Skye’s smirk and knew exactly what the young woman was thinking. Felice managed to hold back a chuckle of her own. She gave his leash a gentle tug. “Come now Anthony; time to clean up for Ms. Sky.” Felice said in a cheery tone leading him down the hall. Anthony followed two steps behind her, his eyes gazing around; curiously exploring the large hallway.
 
Skye left as soon as they were gone, heading back up the stairway to her room. She closed the door quietly behind her, leaving her back pressed against the unstained wood. The faint sent of the meal being prepared downstairs filled her as she inhaled deeply, closing her eyes. Roast with potatoes and carrots, one of her favorites. Too bad she probably wouldn't be eating much tonight with all of the butterflies in her stomach.

Why was I so rude? She thought, mentally smacking her forehead. She'd been so pressed on getting that man out of the house that she hadn't been as courteous as she might have liked. Normally she was very kind-tempered, but something about Mr. Simms just ate at her. The way he looked at her, like another pretty slave to keep under his lock and key. She knew her parents wouldn't approve anyhow. He was much older than she, and they merely saw him under business related terms. However, they had as of recent been trying to spark her interest by inviting certain guests to lunch. Daddy called them "business potentials" but she knew the real reason. It didn't matter, they were all the same and she had no interest, money-driven and overwhelmingly vain as they were.

Her hand pressed to her forehead, which felt hot to her cool hands. She shouldn't get herself worked up, she would be needing her energy for later. With sudden realization she looked around the room. Skye hadn't considered where their new guest was to sleep. The only other male servants in the house were some of the cooks, and she certainly couldn't ask them to make room for yet another in their quarters. Great. He's been here 10 minutes and I'm already finding problems. Not quite the best way to make a first impression. She set the issue in the back of her mind to be dealt with later, as for now, she had lessons in the morning and a book that needed finishing, boring as it was.
 
Once they were out of earshot, Anthony began to speak up. He felt that he could speak freely amongst the other help. “So Ms. Felice, what exactly am I going to be doing around here?” He asked, increasing his pace so that he was now by her side. Felice gave a giggle and shook her head. “Whatever Ms. Skye asks you to do.” She replied back with a smirk, knowing that the answer wouldn’t satisfy him, and she was right, it didn’t. Anthony gave a pout and shrugged his shoulders, this lady had more wit than he’d thought.

Felice opened the door to the washroom, it had a tall ceiling that seemed to go up for miles, the walls were painted s deep violet and there was a faint but glittery gold lace pattern on the walls, but it only showed when the bright light from the chandelier hit it just right. Anthony was awestruck by this room. The floor, sink, and bath all carved from a soft pink marble sparkled with onyx, the large fluffy towels made of the finest cotton hung off of gold plated racks, all of the faucets and knobs gilded in the same gold. He could tell that this room alone cost a fortune to design, let alone the whole Victorian style house.

Felice unhooked the collar from around his neck. “I’ll expect you behave. Start stripping while I draw your bath. For now I will leave you to take care of yourself, but if you take too long I will be forced to help you.” She told the young man as she placed his collar and leash on the counter near the mirror and sink. Her threat seemed more playful than anything, and from the sound of it, she probably wouldn’t mind helping Anthony wash up, however, he certainly did have a problem with that. “Yes Ms. Felice, thank you.” He replied simply, not in the mood to ask another question because of the way she responded last. Once the tub was filled up, Felice turned off the faucet and walked toward the door. Out of courtesy, she avoided looking at the young male slave. “You have five minutes. There is a razor and cream on the sink for you to shave, everything else is on the shelf next to the tub. I expect you to clean up well for miss Skye.” She said as she walked toward the door. “Remember to wash behind your ears too. You know I’ll be sure to check.” Felice added with a laugh, then closed the door behind her.

Anthony just nodded in response and let out a heavy sigh when the door shut behind her. Alone again at last… He thought to himself, allowing a smile to curl on his lips. Anthony made his way to the tub and sunk in, he let out a pleased purr as he felt the warm water sooth his aching and sore muscles and leaned back, allowing himself to rest for a minute. So my new Mistress… He thought as his mind began to trail off. She looks rather young. She can’t any older than me. Anthony pondered curiously. As his thoughts wondered, his hands moved to clean his body, almost as if they had a mind of their own. And she seemed a little bitter toward Mr. Simms. That is the only good thing I have seen about her so far… Anthony thought to himself as he recalled her sharp and poisonous tone when she talked to the old slave trader.
 
Fidgety as she was, Skye was certainly not in the mood for literature. The brass clock on her desktop seemed to tick annoyingly loud and her ears rang. Finally she gave up, tossing the book to the side and stretching. Dinner would be in a short while and she knew mother would be having another "guest" for her. A knock on her door proved her right.

"Skye, darling?" Her mother's voice crooned. The girl bit her lip, hiding the reluctance in her voice as she replied. "Come in..mother." The door swung open immediately, red flowing in before her mother's figure. "You know the Clarence family? Your father brought them home last month." Her mother sounded falsely cheerful as she layed the scarlet dress on the bed in one large flourish. "Well, turns out they have a son who will be doing us the honor of joining us for dinner tonight! You know I want you to look your best, so I had Maria pick up something for you over the weekend." Skye mumbled to herself, eying the garment with distaste. "Mother. You know I do have clothes in my closet that are perfectly fine." She was always giving her this or that to wear for her suitors, usually eye-catching expensive ensembles, which had exactly the opposite effect that Skye wanted with those men. "Nonsense, you needed something new. Besides, you know I love to see you try them on for us." The woman rested a hand on her hip, seeing Skye's lack of enthusiasm. "We'll expect you in an hour. In the dress." And that was that, as she stalked out of the room.

Skye sighed bitterly. She didn't seem to understand that Skye had no interest for all of the hand-picked men that came by the house to woo her. She groaned, feeling a headache and curled her knees pulled to her chest in the winged reading chair. Can't be too much longer til he's done, she thought. Her eyelids fell low and soon she was asleep, a picture of innocence, breathing softly in the corner of the room.
 
Anthony got out of the tub maybe three minutes after he had gotten in. He grabbed a towel and dried himself off before wrapping it around his waist. He went to the mirror and put a hand up to his face, barely a five o'clock shadow, easy enough to shave off. He lathered up his face and after a few quick passes with the old fashion straight blade, his face was clean. As he washed his face Felice opened the door and came in. "Times up boy..oh!" She looked at him surprised by how quickly he had finished. "Alright, you look good from here, now let me inspect." Anthony sighed but walked over to her. Felice eyed him carefully and nodded with approval. "You clean up well. Now, your clothes are in the room next door. Get dressed and meet me in the hallway." Anthony nodded. "Yes Ms. Felice." He replied and walked out the door.

Walking into the next room he didn't feel he had the time to look around. Felice's voice sounded urgent, like there was a reason for him to hurry, and he didn't want to find out what she would do if he delayed. He quickly pulled on the clothes that had been laid out for him, a black button up shirt, black dress slacks, some black boxer briefs, white socks and a pair of Italian leather dress shoes. It only took him a few moments to get dressed and then he was out of the room, smiling at Felice. "Good boy, you follow order's well. Now come on, its time for supper." She held his collar and leash in her hand but made no move to put it on him as she led the way back to Skye's room.

When they got there, a waiter was at the door with the food. Felice took it from him and knocked on the door. "Ms. Skye, the food and Anthony are ready for you." She called before opening the door and beckoning Anthony to follow her. Anthony did just that. When he entered the room, he saw Skye curled up in the corner and grin, it was rather...adorable. Though he quickly let his head fall to look at his feet, in a respective manner. "Ms. Skye I think Anthony did a wonderful job cleaning himself up. What do you think?" Felice asked as she put the tray of food on the bedside table and then lifted Anthony's chin. Anthony stood straight up allowing his new mistress to get a good view of him. The shirt fit his slim yet muscular frame perfectly, only hinting at the tone muscle underneath, the pants making his legs look long and lean, the shoes tied the look altogether. His hair was now all combed back in a slick style except for a few stubborn wisps that hung over his forehead and in front of his eyes, his facial expression was one of neutrality.
 
Her dreams were interrupted by the knock on the door, slipping away though she wished to continue her little nap. Full eyelashes fluttered open reluctantly to reveal the newly arrived pair before her. "Ahhh...hmm?" Air sucked in sharply between her lips when her large eyes finally came into focus. He had looked nice before, tan and tall as he was...but woah, he cleaned up nice. Blood flushed into her cheeks as she surveyed the situation, herself all curled up in the chair in an unlady-like fashion. "Good. He..you look...The clothes fit well. I'm glad." Her eyes flitted around the room a bit nervously. "Thank you, Felice. I hope he wasn't too much trouble. Just set that on the desk over there, if you would. I'll see you in the morning."

She waited until after the servant left before she addressed Anthony, who still stood before her. "Ahh..." She really wasn't sure what to say, words failing her. "Oh! I forgot. Stupid! Stupid!" Her sudden outburst was due to a glance at the clock. She stood up, turning first to walk to the bed, then changing her mind and looking at Anthony, hands pressed to her temples. "I...I..Dinner. In half an hour. Must be early. I have to get ready, sorry..." She bit her lip, obviously flustered. "thirty minutes...dress!" Skye murmured, talking to herself more than anything. She realized her behaviour was probably frightening her guest more than a bit, but mother would be furious if she was late. "I'm sorry! Really. I just can't.. can't be late. I have to be there early to meet the 'guest.'" She rambled all this out whilst running to the walk in closet, scarlet dress in tow. Anthony could hear muttering from the door all the while and a few moments later she emerged, holding the elegant dress to her chest with one hand, looking a bit calmer and embarrassed. "Umm...My apologies. The zipper. Stuck." She squeaked the last word, looking down at her toes. It was knee-length and fit her hips well, complimenting her gentle curves. From what you could see of the front, it plunged generously to reveal hints of her bust, obviously her mother's taste, not her own.
 
“Not at all. In fact, he was quite well behaved. He didn’t even talk back.” Felice said with a smile and laugh. She listened as Skye and nodded. “Yes Ms. Skye. I’ll tell your parents that you’re on your way to dinner.” She said giving and nod and leaving the room. Anthony stood and waited for his next orders, but he was surprised at what came next. He watched as Skye freaked out about the time, his expression turning from neutral to confused. He watched as she flew around the room nervously collecting her things and trying to get ready. Obviously, he had no idea what to do in this situation, or for that matter, how to react. When she disappeared into the closet with the rd dress, suddenly it dawned on him that her cheeks had been a similar color when he entered the room. I wonder why she blushed… He thought to himself, but was again interrupted by his mistress freaking out about her dress again.

He looked at her, trying to keep his eyes from popping out of his head. He simply nodded when she asked for his help. With a gulp he reached out a shaky hand and easily pulled up the zipper. “T-there you are Mistress..” He said, sounding a bit nervous and stuttering a little. He noticed how well it fit her slim yet curvy form, and how the cut of the dress flattered her breasts. “D-do you need me to do anything e-else?” He asked, his hands falling to his sides once more. His gaze was now on his feet once more, looking at the rather shiny and expensive shoes on his feet. S-she is stunning… He stuttered in his mind. He took a few mental deep breaths, not wanting his new mistress to see how nervous and well, shocked that he was.
 
Her cheeks were turning redder by the second, and the slight brush of his hand up with the zipper certainly didn't help things. What an impression to make on the poor man, and he'd hardly even arrived. Skye let out a relieved sigh whispering a thank you as she turned back towards him. She echoed his words thoughtfully, hands twisting her long hair into a loose bun behind her head, "...anything else.." A tendril slipped from her fingers, falling beside her still pink cheek. "Um. My shoes, if you would, please, Anthony." She glanced back at the closet, realizing the need for clarification. "Black heels, I think..just whatever you see first." She turned to her vanity mirror, securing the bun with a few bobby pins, trying to do anything to avoid his gaze. God, I feel like a schoolgirl. This is silly.

She glanced at the reflection, watching for Anthony's reaction. Ohhh. I hope I haven't scared him off. He seems nice enough, and willing to listen when spoken to. I didn't expect even that of him, the way Mr. Simms spoke of him. She fumbled with the clasp on a silver necklace as she heard him return from the closet. Her cheeks colored again, slightly, as she turned around, facing him. "So..am I presentable?" she asked jokingly, more trying to get him to speak than anything.
 
His cheeks were not getting any paler either. That and Anthony was starting to feel a little hot under the collar, she was a beautiful woman and as a man, he couldn't help but feel a little excited in her presence. His eyes looked up from the wisps of hair that covered his eyes and watched as she put up her hair in the sophisticated bun. He nodded quickly at her directions and found the shoes she was talking about, seeing that practically in front of all the others. "Here you are Mistress..." He replied, getting on his knees by her feet, assuming that she was going to ask him to put them on her.

His gazes up at her were fleeting, only lasting for a second or two before again going to the floor. "Shall I put them on for you?" He offered, glancing up for half a second, but noticing that she was looking at herself in the mirror. When she turned back around to face him, he looked up, keeping eye contact. He nodded at her question and took a breath. "Y-you look wonderful mistress. More than presentable." He assured her, his cheeks nearly as red as her dress. He stood up once she was fully dressed and took a step back. "Shall I wait for you here?" He asked, curios as to what he should do while she was at dinner.
 
She was surprised to find him kneeling in front of her when she turned, and even more surprised to see that his face was colouring as well, though not as noticeably. His response surprised her even further. Not the man I thought he'd be. Hmm. Not that I mind.. "Thank you.." It was almost a whisper as she allowed him to slip the heels onto her feet. "I never can seem to get used to these things," she mumbled, using the vanity until she regained her balance.

Skye hadn't really considered what her new servant was to do while she was gone. He didn't seem like the type to run, but you never knew. "Felice did leave your dinner..just be sure not to make a mess of anything. Someone will probably come by for the dishware later, so don't worry about that." She cleared her throat a bit, . "I suppose you can familiarize yourself with the room a bit. I shouldn't be long. Make yourself at home." She caught her gaze wandering down his figure a bit as she spoke. Maybe the clothes fit a bit too well. Her lips turned up into a sweet smile. "I hope you've found things welcoming. I'd rather that your living here be pleasant for all of us." Not knowing what else to say and feeling a bit foolish, Skye left the room quietly, only glancing back once before shutting the door quietly behind her.

Anthony was left in the room alone now, quiet except for the occasional noise from the window. Her room really was kept very neat, and not just because of the servants. Skye preferred things tidy, kept in their place, yet the room had a warm, lived-in feel. A narrow, floor to ceiling shelf unit held numerous books as well as personal touches and the comfy chair next to it had an inviting look to it, obviously well-used. The rest of the room had a more elegant air, dark wood furniture in an older style and soft blue walls. Her bed took up the majority of the room, dressed in gorgeous satin sheets topped with a gray comforter.
 
He offered a smile at her whispered thanks. Apparently she did have manners, and now she was being much more lady-like, and displaying simple grace to her new slave. He took her right foot in his hand and carefully slipped on the right heel, he did the same with her left foot before standing up and taking a step back. As she worked to gain her balance, he watched, intrigued. He had thought that women were born knowing how to walk in such high and extravagant heels.

Anthony waited patiently for an answer, though his thoughts were not on running. He knew better, for Mr. Simms had warned him, and proven that punishment for this was quite harsh, not to mention painful. He nodded as Skye told him to eat and make sure not to make a mess. "Thank you mistress." He replied obediently as she told Anthony to make himself at home. His blush deepen greatly as he felt her eyes inspect him, for some reason it made him feel anxious, unlike what Felice had done so and he had felt nothing but annoyed by the older slave. He opened his mouth to respond to her last words, but Skye seemed to be in a hurry and he simply bowed his head.

Anthony took a moment to look around the room. The colors that surrounded him, as well as the comforting atmosphere of the room, put him at ease and he began to relax a little. He looked over to the desk where his food was and gave a shrug. I guess I should eat then... He sat at the desk in the dark wood chair that matched its elegance. Anthony was careful not to scrape the chair against the floor as he pulled himself closer to the desk. The inviting smell of the roast with vegetables brought a easy smile to his face and he hummed happily before digging in to his meal, savoring every last bit.

Once he was done, he placed everything back on the tray and then put it in the hallway, where another servant took the empty plate back to the kitchen to clean. He closed the door behind him and looked around the room once more. It was cozy, much cozier than his cell had been, and neat as well. He admired the collection of books and trinkets on the shelves, once in a while pulling out a book just to glance through its pages before putting it back. After perhaps half an hour, Anthony noticed that he was feeling a little drowsy. He had not had a very restful night last night, perhaps there was time for a short nap. He looked around. I didn't get permission to touch her bed, or even sit in that cozy chair... He realized and shrugged. With a sigh, he sat on the floor, next to the bookshelf, leaning him back against the wall and his side on the bookshelf. He curled up his knees to his chin and rested his head on them. This is still better than that cold cell... He thought sleepily as he drifted off, waiting for his mistress to return from dinner.
 
It wasn't long before Skye decided she didn't like Mr. Clarence. Greg was him name? Craig? She couldn't recall, he prattled so quickly. Her mother was sure to do most of the talking for her anyway, so it didn't matter. She oozed about this and that, how handsome their guest looked, so dashing in his suit. Normally Skye wouldn't be in such a bitter temper, but all of these dinners lately had her in a foul mood. Time around the dinner table would have been awkwardly silent if it weren't for the fact that Mr. Clarence seemed to have no issue talking the whole time. Really, it's like his whole life story was to be told that night.

She hardly picked at her food, though her stomach growled in protest. She was staring at the napkin in her lap when her mother's voice snapped at her. "Skye. Our guest was addressing you." It really was an accident when slight sarcasm laced Skye's reply, "Oh. I'm so sorry. What did you say?" Her mother reddened, eyes glaring. Skye was quick to recover, "Pardon me. I'm afraid my thoughts wander elsewhere tonight, you'll have to excuse me." Mr. Clarence opened his mouth to speak but her still-glaring mother interrupted. "I'll have to apologize for my daughter as well. I'm not sure why she's being so hideous." Skye bit her tongue, all sorts of anger running through her head. "Oh, I think you should know, mother. I'm tired of feigning interest in these arrangements you set up." Her fists balled around the napkin under the table. This is not the time for this. Before her mother could counter, she pushed back her chair and stood. "Excuse me." It was as though her legs had a mind of her own, as they moved at a fast pace from the room. Only after she reached the stairs did she let the tears building in her eyes run down her cheeks. She hadn't meant to leave like that, certainly not infront of a guest who wasn't at fault, but she wouldn't let her mother see her get angry. Wobbling up the first few steps, she huffed, yanking off the heels and running the rest of the way up.

Skye had almost forgotten about Anthony until she entered her room, not in the quietest of fashions. The light was still on, but he lay curled on the floor, seemingly asleep. It bothered her that he'd chosen the floor to rest, wishing she'd made him feel more welcome to her furniture. I hope I haven't bothered him, storming in like this. She looked him over again, the soft face, messy hair, and lean figure. And then those wonderful eyes, now hidden by his closed lids. She remembered them well, their image having stuck in her mind. Something about the way he looked at her.. Her own tear-reddened eyes rested on the scene for a moment longer before she hastily swept the tears away with the back of her hand. She didn't have the heart to wake him, peaceful as he seemed, so she moved quietly across the room, leaving the shoes on her bed as she pulled down her hair. Her shaking palms rested on the edge of the vanity as she stared at her reflection, back turned to Anthony. Why did I do that? She was no longer hungry, feeling sick at her own behaviour from earlier. Another tear slipped down her cheek, hitting the wooden surface beneath her. Closing her eyes and leaned over, she was unaware that the noise had indeed been loud enough to pull the servant from his sleep.
 
As he slept, Anthony entered dreamland, his mind wandering on the events so far today. His mind kept replying Skye as she spun around in that dress, to leave him in the room. She was so very stunning in that bright red ensemble. And then it drifted to her face, with the blush and shy smile on her cheeks. He still couldn’t figure out what the blush was there, or the smile. Maybe that is just how she always looks and he is just imagining things. Yeah…that must be it. He assured himself, hoping he was right, not sure what other reason it could be.

He stirred a little when she stormed into the room, but it took him a while to wake. When he did come to, he picked up his head and saw Sky sitting at her vanity, looking quite distraught about something. Anthony rubbed his eyes and got himself up of the floor. “Mistress Skye?” He said, talking softly. It was then that he noticed her wet cheeks and red eyes. “I-I’m sorry for falling asleep. I hope that isn’t why you are upset. I-is there something that I can do for you Mistress?” He asked, his voice slowly turning to a whisper, not quite sure of what to do. His eyes looked on her, worry and honest concern written in his gaze. He knelt down beside the chair and looked up at her, hoping it would make her feel more comfortable, perhaps even make her feel better.

His mind raced with questions. Why was she upset? Was it something he had done? Did something happen during dinner? Had it been about what happened right before she left? Or was it something else completely? Anthony reached his hand up, but then stopped. He wasn’t sure if she would be more upset if he tried to touch her, even if it was just to console her. His hand fell back to his side. “Do you want me to leave for a while Mistress. I will stay out in the hall if you’d like until you are ready for me.” He offered, not sure of what else to do or say.
 
Skye didn't stir when he spoke her name, though it did slightly startle her. He could see her lips move, whispering something inaudible. She sat for a moment longer, before again moving her hand to wipe her moist cheeks. "N...no. Please stay." Her figure slipped off the chair to sit on the floor beside him, chin tilted down towards her knees. "It's nothing you did." She chose her words carefully, not sure how he might take them. "In fact, really, you've been far better than I might have expected, the way Mr. Simms talked about you." Her lips curved into a small smile at this. "Not that I have reason to believe much he says..."

"I'm afraid I really haven't shown you much of a first impression, have I? Some mistress I've made." Her tone changed, leaning on a happier note. "I've an idea. You can read, can't you?" Hazel eyes scanned the room, resting on the discarded book from earlier. She picked it up, flipping to the section where she'd stopped. The dress swirled around her legs as she sat on the edge of her bed, gesturing for Anthony to sit on the bed beside her. "I haven't had the patience to read the last bit of this particular book, so I thought maybe hearing someone else read it might help." Her soft lips puckered a bit as she thought. Maybe this will be good. Get him out of his shell a little. "Really, I insist," she added with a playful wink. "You're probably much better than I am." Her attitude had completely turned around as she pushed the nights recent events to the back of her mind.
 
His eyebrows raised as he noticed her lips move, but no words were said. About to open his mouth again to speak, he stopped as Skye told him not to go. He gave a nod, but continued to look up at his mistress with worry, something was obviously wrong. Anthony’s face was ridden with confusion as Skye moved, slipping off the chair to sit beside him. Though her words made him blush. He was flattered that she was pleased with him. “W-well, Mr. Simms did his job well and broke me of my habits…” He shrugged. Skye’s smile caught him off guard, and again, his cheeks turned a bright red, though his own lips curled into a smile, unable to stop it. “I-I’m glad that I have exceeded your expectations so far Mistress, and proved Mr. Simms wrong.” Anthony replied to her last comment, sounding cheerful.

Anthony gave a shrug at her first question. To be honest, he wasn’t really sure what to expect. There was everything that Mr. Simms had told him, but Skye was certainly not the type to do those things….Was she? So far she had not made him do anything that would make him think otherwise. “Yes Mistress, why?” He replied to her second question. He watched with interest as Skye seemed to float over to the bed, and land so gracefully on the edge. As she continued to speak to him, he took her direction and made his way over to the bed. “Yes Mistress, as you wish.” He replied, his surprise and confusion hinted in his tone. Anthony held out his hands to take the book, and waited till it was in his hands before sitting down next to her. Anthony shook his head at her last comment. “I doubt that Mistress.” He noticed that her mood did a total 360, now she seemed very cheery and carefree. He was glad though, he still wanted to know what had distressed Skye before.
 
"I'm glad you've proved him wrong, as well." She wasn't sure what she meant by this, just that it felt right to say. The blood began to rise in her face again, so she cleared her throat a little, lowering her face and pointing to the section where she'd left off. "Yes..I think about there is right.." Her hands rested in her lap as she tucked her knees up under herself. She found herself listening to his voice more than the story. He really did have a wonderful reading voice. Such soothing tones that rose and fell with the words.

The urge to touch him, just rest a hand on his knee or his arm, overcame her. Her hands held tighter together in her lap. I won't scare him away now. Not when he's just settling in. But she couldn't calm the itch in the back of her mind. "Anthony.." she paused a moment as he stopped reading. "Do you think we'll...we'll get along well?" She looked up from her lap, eyes meeting his in a startling connection. They were so brilliantly green, she just wanted to sink into them. "I...I'm sorry. I don't mean to sound so silly..or unsure." She blinked a few times under his gaze, pushing her tousled hair back with a hand, hiding the embarrassment on her face.
 
“Yes Mistress.” He nodded, as she pointed out where to begin. Anthony began to read, not at a particularly fast or slow pace, but at a moderate one, like as if he was conversing with her about something but it was deeply important. His words soft, so she had to lean close to hear, but sweet and clear. Every so often his eyes would wander from the page, just for a quick moment or two, and look at his Mistress sitting beside him. She seemed restless, as if something was wrong, or perhaps she was just bored and was growing tired of his voice.

He looked up as he heard his name. “Yes Mistress?” He asked, his voice filled with concern. At Skye’s question, his expression went from concerned to very confused. “Y-yes, I think so Mistress.” He answered, his voice wavering a bit. “No, you didn’t Mistress. But if I may, why do you ask?” Anthony said, placing his finger where he left off, now looking at her, his cheeks just as flushed as hers. “A-am I not what you are looking for Mistress?” He asked, sounding worried. After all, that would mean that he would go back with Mr. Simms.
 
Her face actually paled a bit at this suggestion. "No! That's not what I was trying to say," she gasped, fearful that she'd made him think so. "Really, you've been wonderful. You're just what I'm looking for, Anthony." She fidgeted uneasily, realizing the double-meaning in her words, though he might not have seen it. "I...I mean...I did choose you myself. It's not as though I had no idea what to expect..just maybe not so much..cooperation." Her mind wandered to her first impression of him, hunched over and fearful looking in the slave market. He still occasionally had that sullen look on his face, but not nearly in the same way.

A strange feeling stirred in her, making her feel suddenly uncomfortable for having brought this all up. "It's wonderful though, feeling like you might actually trust me." Skye allowed her body to shift, legs moving to the side as she gingerly set her head on his shoulder. "Is this..alright? Please continue..it was lovely." A small sigh escaped her lips, finally comfortable, not that she wasn't aware of his warm skin through the dress shirt pressed against her cheek. She wondered if the rest of him was as warm..his hands, maybe, compared to hers which always felt so cool. Why am I thinking such things? Her own question was unanswerable to herself.
 
He couldn’t help but smile when Skye told him that he was just what she was looking for. Anthony looked surprised at her admittance to picking him, and he blushed at her mention of cooperation. “W-well…I…” He started and gulped a bit. “I-I had to…I was afraid that Mr. Simms or you would punish me…” Anthony admitted. His eyes cast down toward the book, a little ashamed to admit such a intimate detail of his inner thoughts and hidden feelings. But there was something about Skye that made him feel comfortable enough to tell her. “B-but then you were so kind to me that I felt like...I wanted to be nice in return.” He explained, his cheeks getting redder and redder.

He looked up as she spoke again, and was about to say something until her head rested on his shoulder. He nodded, a shy and bashful smile on his lips as he looked into Skye’s eyes for a moment. Then he continued to read. When Skye rested her head on his shoulder, she could feel his whole body relax under it, as if them sitting so close and not touching had made him tense. He paid no attention to the words he was reading, though he read them just as eloquently as before. Anthony’s mind was on the warm spot on his shoulder, where his Mistress’s cheek rested. Once in a while his eyes would wander, just for a moment, to glance at her. His stomach began to feel odd but not in a bad way, the way she looked, so peaceful, so beautiful, how could he not trust such a sweet woman.
 
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