Show Me The Ropes {cashton}

III

Calum followed Ashton along the vast hall, his strides slow as he admired his surroundings. He hadn't seen anything like it, even before he left he remembered that their house had been half the size, but as they became wealthier they clearly had taken up renovation project after renovation project.

The floors were marble and blue, framing a red rug outlined with gold positioned centrally, and by the marbled Greek-inspired columns were Italian marble sculptures of youthful angelic figures. 

From the ceiling hung an extravagant chandelier, surrounded by swirling patterns etched into gold that were stunningly complimented by the finest mahogany furniture. Past the marbled columns was the staircase, adorned with red carpet and a mahogany banister, Calum was in awe already, and this was only the entrance hall.

The pair entered a smaller room, it's size made it feel cosier, a little normality felt refreshing after such an overwhelming entrance. 

This sitting room had a fireplace that was keeping the space warm, essential at this time of the year, positioned centre of the back wall. Large leather seats were positioned before the fire as well as a mahogany table where Ashton placed the silver tray. 

He invited Calum to sit, and so he did. He felt slightly ill at ease, but hoped he would settle in quickly and his anxiousness towards meeting the others residing in the household would fade. 

That wasn't easy, though. Being apart for so long made it seem as if he'd be meeting his family for the first time all over again. They had known him as a child, but not as a young adult, and in that time people could change tremendously. In looks, in attitude, in their entire perception of others. And Calum was very aware of his differences, and one hundred percent certain that the Irwins would be too.

"How was your journey?" Ashton asked. Usually, people asked this only out of politeness, not a real interest, but Ashton had a contrary attitude, he was genuine and seemed to really want to know. He knew how different things were here, and having never been to America, life there intrigued him, he wanted to know everything.

In a world of people that just didn't understand him, and that feeling was mutual, Ashton loved to learn. He enjoyed reading primarily for this, and writing his own stories. To have his best friend here, stories of a foreign land at his fingertips, had him filling with joy. This inquisitive nature had always been present, but unlike most, he never grew out of it. Always loved to push the limits, explore and follow wherever his soul took him.

"Well, it was cold," he said, getting a knowing chuckle from Ashton, " and of course every time I spoke I attracted the staring of those I passed by, apparently anyone with anything other than an English accent is more frightening than a ghost. That, and, you know. Look at me. The snow is beautiful, though. I missed it here. America is just so different, wonderful, but different," Calum said, gently lifting the teacup to his lips and taking a sip, humming in delight as the warmth of it was sent through him before he added, "the journey from America was long and uninteresting, however. Being seasick is terribly unpleasant, I would not wish it upon anyone."

Ashton nodded, thoughtful gaze remaining on Calum as he spoke, even while he broke off pieces of the scone between his fingers, slowly eating them, he couldn't take his attention away. He was this way with anyone he spoke to, respectful and able to listen well, accommodate everyone. It was a wonder to his family how he was still unmarried, how such a kind man could be 'wasted' as they'd say. A backhanded compliment.