Happily Ever After

Chapter 25

(Y/N) POV

'Thud'. I slammed my fist onto the hardwood table.

"Let me guess. No luck... again."

"I hate to say this, but you are indeed correct, Lizzy." I sighed in defeat. "I cannot meet with him for another week."

"Now that's just awful. You've been contacting the Trancy manor for three weeks already, but still no available time? Even five minutes?"

"Even five minutes. His butler told me that he has a full schedule for the entire week, again. At this rate I think he's working his arse off like a horse! I'm not rushing with the plan and all. I more worried about him, for he might be chewing more than he can swallow."

"Well, he just came back a month ago, and perhaps he is making up for all the work that piled up during his absence. Two years is a long period of time. Think about it."

"I suppose you are right. Running a business is no joke, I can assure you. I just hope that he still finds time to take care of himself desipite his busy schedule."

"Typical (Y/N), always putting others before herself. I greatly admire that trait of yours, but sometimes you forget to think about yourself."

"You think so?"

"I know so, and you know what...?"

"What?"

"You deserve a break! Anne, please clear off everything from (Y/N)'s schedule today. She is taking a day off!"

"Wh- Lizzy, I can't do that! I have tons of paperwork to finish."

"Come on, (Y/N). You're worried about Alois working his arse off when you're doing the exact same thing. Take a break and let loose once in a while, will you?"

"But-"

"No buts! You're coming with me!" Lizzy started to drag me outside the room.

"I- you know what, I'm not even going to argue."

"Great! That's the spirit!"

~•~

Lizzy and I went on an afternoon stroll with Anne and Paula. It was neither too hot nor too cold — the perfect weather to go outside for a walk. As we strolled along London's busy streets, we visited a few shops such as the local bakery, a cozy cafe, and of course, Funtom's Toys and Candies.

"Look at all the pretty dolls, (Y/N)!" Lizzy pointed out. "I feel like a child again. Oh I remember how we used to play with them when we were still kids."

"I know right? Such happy times." I gave her a smile. "This place really brings me nostalgia."

We roamed around the toy shop like the little girls we used to be. There were toys of all sorts like wooden blocks, dolls, stuffed animals, the Yo-Yo, marbles, skipping-ropes, etc.

"Is that... Mr. Brown?" I approached the teddy bear and examined it. "My, my, they do look alike. I thought Funtom Corporation does not make these anymore."

"You are right Miss. This is a very rare item that most toy collectors desire, for it is the last of its kind, the only one left in England." An employee stated.

"Kind sir, is this teddy bear for sale?"

"Why yes, yes it is. Although I should say that it comes with a hefty price."

"Very well, I would like to purchase this teddy bear please."

~•~

"Lizzy, where are we going?"

"It's a secret. It would ruin the surprise if I tell you, wouldn't it?" Lizzy said with a cheeky smile. "Now just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view with your lovely teddy bear. Hold on... when did you get one?"

"Oh right, I forgot to tell you. I saw this bear at the toy shop earlier. He reminded me of Mr. Brown, Luka's old stuffed animal, for they resemble each other very much. So, I decided to purchase him from the store."

"I see. He is very adorable indeed. Perhaps you should name him 'Mr. Brown' too. I mean, the name does suit him."

The carriage went to a stop, meaning that we have arrived at our destination. Mr. Robinson opened the door, and one by one we stepped outside.

"Lizzy... it's beautiful. How did you know?"

"How can I not know? You and Alois absolutely adored bluebells. We all used to play in the bluebell-covered fields during summer when we were younger."

"Ah, the good old days. Lizzy, do you want to see if the old oak tree still stands?"

"Certainly! Race you there!" Lizzy suddenly ran off.

"Not fair! You got a head start!" I ran after her.

Lizzy and I raced on the bluebell field to see who was the fastest. As soon as I took the lead, my eyes caught a glimpse of a certain blond man with his loyal black butler beside him. I stopped in my tracks, giving Lizzy an easy victory.

"Alois?"

~•~

Hello my lovely readers! I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Don't forget to vote and comment down your thoughts about this fic!

Fun fact: The toys mentioned above were indeed popular among the children of 19th century England.