The Earl's Kitten

Chapter XXXIV

January 4th 1888, 21:00 PM

That evening, at first, went simply. Both Alois and I were too exhausted to make proper conversation during dinner – we both ended up retiring quickly after our meal. I used the spare time to take a bath and relax slightly before I had to head out for the evening. Hannah came in briefly to brush my hair and tell me that she would await my return.

"Has Thompson readied Diamante for me?" I asked quietly, sipping on the cup of tea that the female demon had brought up for me.
"Indeed, my Lady. He is waiting around the corner with her." Gently, Hannah smiled at me before putting the brush to the side and taking away my empty cup. "There, you're ready."

With a nod, I stood and gave her a brief hug.

"Thank you, Hannah. For everything you've done for me in keeping my secrets and helping me out."
"It is my pleasure, M'Lady. Now, go, I am sure Earl Phantomhive is waiting for you. I shall let Thompson know to expect you back in a couple of hours."
"Perhaps... do not expect my return tonight." I looked at Hannah over my shoulder, "I intend to work through the night with my Master and return in the morning. I shall figure something out if that doesn't go to plan."

"That... is quite a while, M'Lady. Do be careful on your return journey." Concern – or what seemed to be concern – creased Hannah's brow, and I merely gave her a bright smile in response.

"Of course, Hannah. You be careful too."

With that final goodbye, I headed out of my room and down the stairs, careful not to disturb Alois as I creeped passed his room. I closed the front door behind me as quietly as possible, then walked around the corner of the street to find Thompson. He wasn't standing too far away – Diamante's reins in his hands, a cap donned on his head to keep him from getting too wet in the rain.

"Have you a coat, M'Lady?"

"I do indeed, Thompson." I hopped up onto my mare's back, then took the reins when they were offered to me. "I hope to return in the morning; have a good night."

"Good night, Lady Rose." I smiled softly at the demon before ushering Diamante to move forward.

Having a thick coat did me no good. Rain eventually seeped through, and by the time I arrived at the Phantomhive Manor, I was beginning to feel chilled. I steered my horse around the back of the Manor, to the stables where she could dry off and warm up. Once I knew she was secured, I headed into the house via the servants kitchens and draped my sodden coat over the back of a chair.

January 4th 1888, 22:30 PM

My ears perked up, and I turned my head towards the door momentarily before returning my attention back to pouring the Master a cup of tea.

"It would appear we have a guest, young Master." The young boy hummed quietly.
"Then we best treat them with hospitality, hmm? See to it, Sebastian." Placing the teapot back on the cart, I bowed to the Phantomhive.
"Yes, my Lord."

Silently, I made my way out of the young Lord's room and closed the door behind me before heading down the hallway to the stairs – I couldn't allow our visitor to get far into the house.

January 4th 1888, 22:35 PM

After pulling my boots off and leaving them by the door, I gingerly picked up my skirts and made my way out of the kitchens to head up to the study. I had not knocked the front door as I usually would, and could only hope that Sebastian would discern me from a common thief.