The Spider's Kiss (Alois x Reader)

14: Do Hurry

It is hard to face Ellis after what I did with Alois. We had only kissed, but it felt like so much more than that. It is normal for those betrothed to kiss and flirt at this age. Some even have marital relations, if the wedding ceremony is soon. But Alois and I are not to be married, despite how much I wish we were. He is right, I was foolish to reject him the first time. And now, I am stuck in purgatory, waiting to either be asked again, or to be made a fool of in the courts.

I lay in the swinging canopy in the center of the rose garden. The light blue sky is clear with no chance of rain. If only I could have a picnic, or something to take my mind off of him. Sighing, I review the notes in my journal. This must be it.

The patients have all been sprouting up in one area. In which area, it seems many of the patients have gone to the same doctor's office. For the one we have records of, they went for all different types of reasons— so many that it's hard to draw a link.

"Ellis," I try. "Have you collected the information that I've asked for?"

Within the blink of an eye, he appears in his usual over dramatic kneel. "Yes, m'lady. Here are the prescriptions of the doctor for the last year."

I glance over the list. Having done some study of medicine, many of the names were familiar. All except one.

"Have you heard of sulfur power as a medicine, Ellis?" You inquired.

"Not for medicine, no." He thought for a moment. "However, I do know it produces a terrible smell; akin to spoiled eggs."

My nose wrinkles in disgust. "It seems our doctor has been experimenting with different types of medicines for different injuries. Sulfur powder for back pain, upset stomach, head injury, fever... We must ask his thoughts on this." Ellis nodded in agreement.

"But first, dinner."

With a sigh, I push my stuff aside and stand. My stomach was growling, I admit.

The rest of the evening is boring and uneventful. I decide to sleep early so I can feel fresh tomorrow.

The first face I see at the Phantomhive manor the next day is not one I am ready for.

"Have you sorted your thoughts and feelings out yet, by any chance?" Alois ran up to me and hardly bothers to keep his voice down. Quickly, I hush him and drag him away from the butlers.

I yank him by his shirt collar and replied both lady-like and venomously, "Perhaps I have thought somewhat upon the subject, but not so deeply to which I can provide an answer as of this moment."

His lips graze against mine on his way to my ear. "Do hurry, darling, I haven't much patience now that I've confused. And I am ready for you at any moment to tell me your answer."

I narrow my eyes and blush. With a shove, he's sent backwards and I am walking towards the Phantomhive parlour. There are more important things at the moment. At least, that is, to the rest of England.