oanja

Masterpost | One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six

~*~

The last two weeks leading up to the wedding were strange for Spencer. He could see the house in frantic preparations but none of it touched him or Mister Urie. Well, nothing else except the tailors. Mister Urie had brought with him a considerable wardrobe including his wedding garments, and it appeared that these would not go well with what Spencer’s mother had planned for Spencer to wear. So morning after another Spencer had to stand on a pedestal while a tailor and his assistant measured, poked and prodded him, taking in some seams and letting out others. It was traditional for same sex couples to wear some white but it was not as strict as it was for an ordinary bride. After all, there was no bride in their wedding. Spencer had a white waistcoat with pear decorated embroidery with a dove grey overcoat and black trousers, he had heard Mister Urie would wear something similar but had not been allowed to see what.

Not surprisingly the wedding was garnering quite a lot of attention in Loughton. The whole community was abuzz about the upcoming nuptials and the Smith family had to entertain many a neighbour who suddenly seemed very determined to come and visit, wishing the couple every imaginable happiness while simultaneously trying to glean as many interesting titbits of information about Mister Urie as they could politely get away with. It seemed to Spencer that among the more elderly matrons this had become a sort of a contest, to see who among them was the most knowledgeable. Well, Loughton had not seen many new inhabitants in the resent years and most certainly none from all the way from the former colonies.

Spencer was usually left to field the questions, as Mister Urie still seemed rather reserved and nervous among strangers. There was however a bright side to all this nonsense, as far as Spencer was concerned, as Mister Urie seemed to feel that in situations such as these, he felt more at ease with Spencer than he did with their nosy neighbours and as such it worked towards Spencer's goal of trying to befriend his fiancé.

Still, the situation was quite taxing especially as Vivian usually begged off from hosting these gatherings, stating that she was ever so busy with the preparations. Sometimes Spencer's father would deign to join them, and that was always a relief as he was able to direct the conversation into other topics once in a while. It was always worse if the twins decided to join them as they seemed to find the situation very amusing and would spent the time tittering amongst themselves and throwing in embarrassing questions for Spencer. At least they did nothing to make Mister Urie more uncomfortable, quite the opposite as it continued that Mister Urie found the girls very agreeable.

All in all the wedding nonsense was getting on his nerves more than he had expected. Somehow Spencer had thought that by not marrying for sentimental reasons would spare him some of the frivolous traditions that went with the occasion but obviously he had been mistaken. What was even more vexing was that he had not really had any time to get to know his fiancé that much better. Mister Urie was always surrounded by Spencer’s family and if Spencer went to join them his presence seemed only to make Mister Urie withdraw and become quiet. Still it seemed quite unfair to Spencer that he was the only one in his family who was not on first name basis with his own fiancé, how was that not absurd.

The whole thing made Spencer acutely aware of who was missing from his life, for surely Ryan would never have let him live down the embarrassment. At least Ryan was back in London and Spencer’s father had met him and Mister Wentz there and had reassured Spencer that Ryan would be coming to the wedding and would stand with Spencer during the ceremony. They had exchanged a few letters but it was so odd, trying to avoid all topics, which might cause offence when in the past causing offence to one another, had been a great sport between them. So the letters were stilted and nonsensical.

One afternoon when Spencer had been let out of his latest fitting he escaped the house on horseback and went to meet Captain Bryar at Rosslings. That was the best decision Spencer had made in a while, for they ended up having a very relaxing time fishing in the stream that divided the lands between Rosslings and Summerlin. The water was still high from the spring rains and they brought back five beautiful trout - three of which Captain Bryar insisted Spencer take with him. Spencer agreed to it finally and bade his friend farewell after making sure that the other man was indeed coming to the wedding.

~*~

On the morning of the wedding a thick fog had enveloped the whole town in a wet embrace. Spencer hoped it would clear out later for otherwise his mother would surely be cross and all the guests would be feeling uncomfortable if their garments got damp on the way to the church. Not to mention that it was considered a bad omen for the marriage if it rained on the wedding day. Spencer washed and got dressed with the help of his valet Harding, having to admit that the clothes that he had cursed numerous times did look fine on him and he would not need to fear looking anything less than his best.

Downstairs, Spencer’s father was waiting for him and pulled him into the sitting room explaining that Brendon, Vivian and the girls were in the dining room and that Spencer could not go in there and see Brendon before the ceremony. Spencer thought it was a silly tradition but was mollified by the tea and crumpets waiting for him on the small table. It took him a moment to notice that there was someone else waiting in the room but when he did Spencer could not help the wide grin spreading over his face as he walked up to Ryan and huged him tightly against his chest. “You son of a goat, I was beginning to doubt my father’s word when you did not arrive last night.” Spencer murmured into Ryan’s ear and pulled back to look at his friend properly.

“I would not have missed your wedding for the world, and you should know that, Spencer.” Ryan said primly and straightened his lapels on his green velvet coat, but there was a sheepish smile on his lips that made Spencer’s heart lighter. At least Ryan had missed him as well, no matter how marvelous he thought his new friends were.

“Come, boys, and eat - we have to leave for the church in half an hour.” James reminded them, and Spencer went to sit down.

Their conversation was amiable as they ate, even as Spencer found himself feeling more and more nervous about the wedding and had some difficulty concentrating on what Ryan was telling him about London. Still, he did take note when Ryan mentioned that Mister Wentz was being quite elusive about his plans for the summer and had not yet confirmed if he would be staying in town for the Season at all. Spencer found himself wishing that the man would just move to Paris permanently and so solve all these worries he had.

~*~

The church was brimming with people when Spencer walked inside with his father and Ryan. He had known to expect it, for his marriage was a big social event in a town as small as Loughton. He felt very uneasy but tried his best not to let it show as he waited for Mister Urie to appear. Spencer’s father would walk him down the aisle in the absence of his own family, and Spencer suddenly felt very sorry for Mister Urie, so far away from his old home and all his loved ones. Suddenly his spouse-to-be seemed that much braver to Spencer, for he was not sure if he himself would have been able to adapt to such different surroundings with as much grace as Mister Urie had managed.

When the church doors opened and Mister Urie walked in, holding James’ arm, Spencer felt his breath hitch for a moment. There was no denying the fact that Mister Urie was a striking image of beauty in his cream coloured frockcoat with golden stitching, white waistcoat over starched shirt with an elaborate neckcloth and black trousers. His hair was coiffed in a way that made it seem very soft and touchable and the slight blush on Mister Urie’s cheeks crowned the whole ensemble.

Spencer found it hard to concentrate on the vicar’s words during the ceremony, for it only now seemed to hit him that he was in fact getting married. That Mister Urie was not going to be Mister Urie for long, that he would be Spencer’s spouse, that he was expected to kiss Mister Urie at the end of the ceremony and how absurd it was that it would be the first time he touched the other man on purpose if he did not count the handshake they had exchanged when they met the first time.

As if summoned by Spencer’s thoughts the vicar said. “You may kiss your spouse.” And the ceremony was over. Spencer turned to face his spouse and looked into very nervous looking brown eyes. He tried to smile reassuringly but was not sure how convincing he was, for he felt rather unsettled as well. Still, he ducked down slightly and met Brendon’s lips with his own, if only for a brief moment.

Now that the official part of the ceremory was over, Spencer walked down the aisle with his spouse and outside the guests threw rose petals over them --As rice would be rather in bad taste, with its connotations about fertility. as Spencer helped Mister—really he would need to start calling his spouse Brendon, into the carriage.

Spencer noticed Brendon hiding an yawn behind his hand and asked, smiling: “Did you not sleep well last night?”

This, as everything Spencer said, made Brendon blush. “I was quite nervous about today.” He answered and sneaked a glance at Spencer, who kept his smile pleasant trying to make his spouse feel more at ease.

“I was nervous as well, so we have that in common.” He said and squeezed Brendon’s fingers gently.

~*~

The wedding reception was getting more and more boisterous as the evening wore on. People were always in a gay mood in weddings and when some wine and punch were added to the mixture it was no surprise that the dancefloor continued to stay full and the temperature continued to climb even with all the windows open.

Spencer stood near one such window and tried to even his breathing after a rather fast paced cotillion, while Josie had pulled Brendon back into the dance. Spencer did not see how people could dance so much and not get tired, his own feet were already begging him to sit down and he had not participated even in half the dances. Just as he was trying to gather the strength to go looking for some refreshment he was joined by Captain Bryar who had helpfully brought with him two glasses of wine. “I thought you would be in need.” The man said and offered the glass to Spencer who accepted it gratefully.

“How is married life treating you so far?” Captain Bryar asked with an amused air, looking at Spencer’s slightly worse for wear appearance, making Spencer reach for an hankerchief and wipe some of the sweat from his face with his free hand.

“I must say I do wish it will not continue in this fashion for much longer, or I am in danger of dying from heat stroke.” Spencer admitted good-naturedly, and finished his wine with a few thirsty gulps. “The tailors did not take dancing into consideration when they made my outfit, the coat fabric is too heavy for such exertion.” He continued to complain, feeling slightly put out that his friend was not similarly affected, as Captain Bryar still insisted his injury prevented him from dancing, even when Spencer had seen him move quite freely when they had gone on their fishing trip this same week.

“If you continue to whine so, I fear you will disappoint your spouse, who seems to be enjoying the dancing quite immensely.” Captain Bryar pointed out and they both followed Brendon’s movements on the dance floor with their gazes for a while.

Spencer found he liked seeing his spouse like this, for Brendon was surely having a good time, his face open in its happiness and enjoyment as he was twirled around the dance floor by overeager Josie. “He told me that he has not had many chances to attend gatherings where dancing was the form of amusement for the guests. I understand that his father thought the activity frivolous and disapproved of it entirely.” Spencer explained.

“His family is puritan, then?” Captain Bryar asked and sipped from his glass.

“I have not asked about his family’s denomination, but I am sure my father would know. He attended church services with the Urie’s while staying as their guest. But I gathered that they are very religious, and some of Brendon’s siblings have pursued the clergy as a profession.” Spencer said, thinking that he should know more about his own spouse by now and not have to repeat hearsay he had learned from letters.

Before Captain Bryar had a chance to reply Ryan joined them. “Captain Bryar, Spencer.” He nodded to both of them in greeting and continued. “I must say this has been a most enjoyable celebration, even if the heat is unbearable and the guests quite crass in their manners. Still I wish you all the happiness in your marriage.” Ryan appeared to be somewhat inebriated, which was quite a rare occurrence when Ryan was concerned. Spencer took his friend’s elbow to help him keep his balance and tried not to frown.

“Thank you for your well-wishes, but you already congratulated me when the reception started.” He reminded Ryan and glanced at Captain Bryar to see how he was taking this turn of events. The man was looking at Ryan with an unreadable expression on his face but at least he did not seem offended. Spencer really wished his friends would get along more amicably.

Ryan nodded a few times and then poked Spencer in the chest with his sharp finger making Spencer flinch. “Yes, indeed I did, however, you were then accompanied by your spouse and I hardly could say what I thought then. And what I thought was that you Spencer Smith got very lucky indeed, for your spouse is a very handsome, -nay, a pretty man.” Ryan paused for a moment and Spencer found himself wishing that Ryan would not speak further; he had a bad feeling about what his friend might say.

While it was rare that Ryan got this drunk it had happened on occasion and Ryan’s moods tended to run dark when he was not in full control of his faculties.
“Pretty, yes, and pure as snow I am sure. I know how important that is to you Spencer, so you must be very glad, very glad indeed, that you managed to find an actual virgin to marry. Such a rarity these days, would you not agree Captain Bryar?” Ryan said, turning to ask the last question directly to Captain Bryar.

Spencer felt himself flush with embarrassment and also, to his surprise with anger in his spouse’s behalf, who Ryan had not even had a conversation with, but to whom he was so terribly rude towards right at this moment. “Ryan, you have had too much to drink and you have said too much. I think you should ask for a carriage to take you back to Summerlin.”

“I will assist mister Ross, so you do not need to worry.” Captain Bryar promised Spencer, who nodded gratefully.

“I do not need anyone to look after me.” Ryan said crossly and stomped away rather unsteadily, Mister Bryar following him.

Spencer sighed. He was getting increasingly worried about his friend. It was lucky that the London Season would begin soon and the whole family would move to the London house. Perhaps then, when he was again in closer proximity to Ryan he would in some way be able to help his friend and stop him from making a mistake that would ruin his whole life.

Perhaps luckily he did not have time to brood about his friend’s behaviour for it seemed that his spouse had managed to escape the dancing and was making his way towards Spencer through the crowd. “Oh I feel like I am floating! Are my feet truly touching the floor?” Brendon inquired, grinning in a rather silly manner. It seemed that some wine made Brendon forget to be shy and instead made him feel whimsical.

“I must disappoint you and say that your feet are still attached to the floor, but it is good to hear you are enjoying yourself. I hope my sisters have not been too taxing?” Spencer asked and hoped he had a drink to offer Brendon, for the other man looked to be sweating quite profusely, as his coat was at least as thick as Spencer’s own.

Brendon just beamed at him. “No! They are lovely, I always wished I would not be the youngest and now I have two little sisters. I could not be happier about my circumstances.”

“They feel very strongly about you as well.” Spencer assured his spouse and took his arm, starting to steer them towards the tables where the punch bowls and canapés were laid out.

“Come, let us get some refreshments, it has already been a while since dinner and I am sure you must be in need of at least something to drink.”

“I feel like I could drink at least ten glasses of water and not feel sated.” Brendon admitted and aborted a move where he had been about to wipe his forehead with the sleeve of his fine coat. This made Spencer smile and he offered his other, still clean handkerchief to his spouse who smiled in thanks.

At the table Spencer handed his empty glass to a serving maid and took two new glasses in turn, offering the other to Brendon, who gulped it down with great haste, only to ask for another right away. Spencer was not sure if this was very wise, as Brendon did not seem like a person who was accustomed to drinking. While Brendon was diverted otherwise Spencer asked the maid discreetly to bring watered wine for his spouse from now on. “You should eat something as well. It would not do for you to become ill from too much wine.” Spencer reminded Brendon and pointed the man towards the small cucumber sandwiches, small cakes and other offerings delicately placed on silver platters.

“I could eat some more cake.” Brendon mused almost to himself and went to take a piece, while Spencer got delayed by his great aunt; who wished to impart some words of wisdom for their marital happiness. Luckily Brendon wandered back to Spencer and distracted his aunt from her tirade with a bright smile and a recommendation to try to fruitcake with cherries.

“Could we dance some more?” Brendon asked, his big brown eyes wide and eager, making it impossible for Spencer to say no, no matter how his feet were aching.

~*~

The celebrations were still going when it was time for Spencer and Brendon to retire. They were spending the wedding night at the inn in Loughton where its best room had been prepared for them. Spencer thought it was a good thing for he would surely have felt ill at ease, going to bed with his spouse for the first time, knowing that his sisters were sleeping not three doors down the hall.

Normally Spencer and Brendon would have been on their way to their honeymoon, but Spencer and his father had agreed that Brendon had had enough travel for a while and that perhaps they would go to the south of France that winter and call that the honeymoon instead.

The wedding reception had been held at the town hall and it was not a long ride from there to the Loughton Arms inn. Brendon who had been abuzz the whole evening seemed still to be almost vibrating on the seat next to Spencer, so when the carriage came to a halt and they climbed down Spencer did not let go of Brendon’s hand. The innkeeper himself came to see them to their room and offered his congratulations before closing the door and leaving them alone for the first time as a married couple.

Spencer, who had been dying to get rid of his coat for hours, took it off and threw it haphazrdly on a chairback, loosening his neackcloth with his other hand. Then he noticed that Brendon had frozen near the door and was very decidedly not even looking at his direction and blushing profusely.

“Uh, I apologize. If you wish you can change in the bathroom.” Spencer offered and pointed to the open door that led to the newly installed bathroom, with running water, which was the Inn’s pride and joy.

Brendon was biting his lip, his eyes darting around the room, looking rather scared. Spencer felt he had not expressed himself as well as he should and perhaps he had somehow made Brendon feel worse. “I think our servants brought some of our clothes here in advance. Perhaps you should look into the wardrobe.” He suggested and Brendon nodded, moving there and opening the doors. For a moment he stood there unmoving and then said in such a quiet voice Spencer almost did not hear him. “What… what should I wear?”

The situation was rather awkward, making Spencer flush slightly, for what was he supposed to say? Ideally neither of them would wear anything to their marriage bed but he could hardly say that to Brendon, who already seemed scared as rabbit. Spencer cleared his throat and suggested. “Perhaps your nightclothes and a robe?”

This seemed to be agreeable to Brendon, who grabbed the aforemantioned garments and made a hasty retreat to the bathroom, closing the door behind him.

“Bloody hell.” Spencer whispered under his breath and started to undress himself. His only experiences with intimate situations like this had been in quite different, for the prostitutes he had seen had not felt any need for coyness or ceremony. The whole act had been very businesslike and now Spencer found himself at a loss.

How did one proceed with a partner who seemed ‘as pure as snow’ as Ryan had put it? “Gently, I would imagine.” Spencer muttered to himself and pulled a long nightshirt over his naked body, as not to alarm his spouse entirely.

After thinking about it he also pulled on a robe, for he needed to visit the facilities and it would be better to appear as dressed as possible when Brendon came out. He sat down at the small breakfast table and wished he had something to do with his hands, ending up drumming his fingers on the tabletop but made himself stop for it seemed like an impatient gesture and he did not wish to convey that emotion to Brendon.

It seemed to take forever but finally the door opened and Brendon stepped back into the room proper, clutching his wedding attire in his hands, all neatly folded. Spencer thought it would be best not to say anything so he left Brendon to sort himself out as he stepped into the bathroom and relieved himself, washing his hands and face afterwards. He paused for a moment to look at himself in the mirror and made himself a promise not to scare Brendon.

Back in the room Brendon had already climbed into bed and was half sitting, leaning against the headboard, looking suddenly very young to Spencer’s eyes. Spencer smiled at Brendon, hoping it looked reassuring and not leering or anything alarming, and went about the room blowing the lamps out. He could feel Brendon’s gaze following his every move but could not think of anything to say that might make Brendon more at his ease.

Finally there was nothing else to do than to climb into bed as well, with only the candles on their nightstands giving some light to the room. Spencer rid himself of the robe and thought that perhaps he should just say something. “We never officially agreed to call each other by our given names, but I would very much like to do so, if it is agreeable to you, Brendon?” He said, feeling that this should not be too bad a starting point.

“No, I mean yes, I do not object at all.” Brendon stammered, and Spencer tried not to feel disheartened that the Brendon he had seen a glimpses of this evening during the celebrations and earlier with his family had again disappeared leaving behind this man who did not feel comfortable even speaking to him. How was he supposed to consummate the marriage, as he did not wish to force himself on anybody - least of all his own spouse?

Then to Spencer’s surprise he felt Brendon seek out his hand and squeeze his fingers between his own very tightly. “I… I know what happens now. I mean I have heard things? It’s all right to… to just do it.”

Spencer watched Brendon’t face while he made his brave little speech and even in the dim, flickering candlelight Spencer could see that Brendon was scared. Spencer wondered what he had actually heard about two men laying together. Taking a fortifying breath Spencer leaned over Brendon and blew out the candle on his side of the bed. Brendon had let out a small squeking sound and was now lying flat on his back, his eyes huge and dark as they tracked Spencer’s movements.

He leaned down and pressed a tiny kiss on his spouse’s lips and then turned to blow out his own candle before he settled down as well. “It is also fine to wait until we feel comfortable in each other’s presence. It is not as if we are in a hurry to produce an heir.” Spencer said, and tried to make his body relax so he might fall asleep. Right before he fell asleep Spencer could still hear Brendon’s breathing fast and uneaven on the other side of the bed, and Spencer hoped he could somehow convince the other man that he was not about to jump across the mattress and defile him.

~*~

When Spencer woke up the next morning it was only to realise that Brendon had already risen from bed and judging by his still wet hair, he had also had time to bathe. "I apologise for sleeping so late, that was very inconsiderate of me. You could have woken me?" Spencer said as he pulled on his robe again and joined Brendon at the breakfast table that had been set up. "I cannot believe I slept through the food arriving." He noted and offered Brendon a rueful smile.

"I asked them to be as quiet as they could. You looked like you needed the sleep." Brendon answered, and poured some tea for them both. Spencer was tempted to ask if Brendon had managed to get any rest, but thought the question could appear unkind. At least Brendon was making conversation with him and there was no reason for Spencer to make the situation awkward when he could avoid it.

"Thank you, that was very considerate of you." Spencer said even though he hated that he was forced to rely on such meaningless pleasantries with his own spouse. However, it would have been foolish to think things would have gotten perfect suddenly just because they were now married. Spencer suspected that he still needed to devote much of his time into making friends with Brendon. Not that he minded it much, after all his father was more than capable of taking care of their business and what was more important after all than laying a solid foundation to his marriage?

They finished eating and after a moment of unsure shuffling around they managed to arrange themselves as to get dressed without causing any undue embarrassment for each other. When they got back to Summerlin, the whole family and servants were waiting for them at the entrance hall, welcoming them back home as a married couple. This made Brendon blush and Spencer was not completely unaffected either, but the sentiment was very nice none the less. Josie, who had been holding Stuart in her arms, let the squirming dog free and it scampered to Brendon at full speed, making everyone laugh.

The next few days were spent in a sort of wedding stupor as everyone tried to get back into their daily routines. There was also the matter of distributing the leftover pastries and cake to the tennant farmers and their families as a way of including them into the celebration as well. Brendon kept blushing when the families congratulated them on their marriage and especially complimented Spencer on his luck in finding such a fine young man to marry. Spencer did not have to fake his good cheer as he accepted the praise and handed out the wrapped parcels of baked goods from the big basket Brendon was holding.

When Spencer mentioned procuring a cello for Brendon as a wedding present his father recommended that he should take Brendon with him, after all the instrument would be for him and Spencer did not really know what made for a good cello. So Spencer suggested to Brendon that they should take a short trip to London and visit some shops where they might be able to find something suitable. Brendon tried to object and say he did not need such an expensive gift, but Spencer was adamant.

The staff at the London house welcomed Brendon very warmly, and it still gave Spencer a small thrill to hear Brendon addressed as Mister Urie-Smith. It was also the first time for them be alone without Spencer's family. The situation was not without its awkward moments when Brendon reverted into his habit of not really talking to Spencer and when spoken to answering rather shortly and getting easily flustered. Still, these instances occurred more and more rarely during the week that they spent in London, as Brendon grew more confident and more relaxed in Spencer's company.

Visiting the instrument maker was rather bewildering for Spencer who did not know much about string instruments at all and found himself unable to follow the conversation taking place between Brendon and the shopkeeper. In the end though Brendon and the middle-aged shopkeeper with a thick German accent came to an accord and Brendon was grinning very widely indeed, which Spencer took as a good sign and happily made arrangements for the cello to be shipped to Loughton and in turn gave the man a letter of credit.

"Oh, I cannot believe how fortunate we were, such a bargain for a genuine Tecchler! We were in luck to procure it before he had the chance to find another buyer." Brendon exclaimed happily and grinned at Spencer.

Spencer smiled back but in his mind was still rather sceptical about the whole deal, after all the instrument was still in Belgium of all places and would need to be shipped into the country first. He was willing to trust the shopkeeper as his reputation was without reproach. "I am glad we could find an instrument to your liking, for you must miss playing the cello already." Spencer said.

"My old cello was nothing compared to an actual Tecchler but I must say I do miss playing. I do not know how to thank you for the gift, it is completely beyond of what I could have hoped for." Brendon said, directing a wide-eyed look at Spencer.

Spencer was seized with the urge to kiss his spouse right then and there, and it took him a moment to compose himself before he could answer. "If it will make you happy it was my pleasure to give it to you and you need not think there is any need to pay me back for it."

Brendon seemed a bit flustered but also happy, so Spencer felt it was safe to link their arms together as they walked down the street. The day was sunny for once and even the constant noise of horse hooves and carriages or the smell of the big city could not stop Spencer from enjoying himself immensely.

~*~

The short week that Spencer and Brendon spent in London made Spencer think that it would not be such a bad idea to perhaps start looking for a house just for the two of them. The idea of having his own household with Brendon did have a nice ring to it and he even mentioned it to Brendon once during dinner.

"I have loved my time in Summerlin with your family, but I can see how having our own home might also be very pleasant." Brendon said, looking cautiously pleased, if Spencer could read his expression correctly.

Spencer passed the gravy to Brendon and nodded. "Yes, there is no hurry for us to move, and actually I hope that we will stay in Summerlin for a year at least. The twins will leave for university and I am sure my mother would enjoy our company as she adjusts to the house being quieter. It will also give us time to weigh our options carefully, as the location of the house is of course very important."

"You would wish to stay close to Loughton, I presume?" Brendon asked, sipping his wine.

"If possible, but I was thinking more about the need to be within close proximity to London. I will, after all, need to visit the office there quite often, even now that my father is back and will take over some of the work I have been doing in his absence." Spencer explained.

Brendon nodded, but looked slightly downcast. "Do you think you would be gone very often?"

This made Spencer think of the situation from Brendon's perspective: The man had moved across the ocean and now only knew Spencer and his family in England. If Spencer did find them a house somewhere far from Loughton and if he was away most days in London, Brendon would surely grow very lonely. "Ah, I am sure you would swiftly make new acquaintances where ever we moved. You would not lack for company."

"You flatter me. We both know I come across very poorly when I meet new people I wish to befriend." Brendon said and sighed. Before Spencer had a chance to answer though Brendon rallied and smiled again. "But I am sure I could manage it with time. I have never organized dinner parties, though; perhaps I should ask your mother to teach me when we return to Summerlin?"

"I am sure my mother would love to help you." Spencer assured Brendon and they spent the rest of the meal speaking about less important things.

~*~

After they returned from London, Josie interrogated Brendon about what they had seen in town, as the twins had been looking forwards to showing Brendon around in the capitol, and had been rather putout when they learned that Spencer would have the first chance at it. To the girls’ pleasure Brendon revealed that they had not in fact seen many things that the girls considered interesting, so their plans had not been foiled by the impromptu visit.

When the girls were not monopolizing Brendon's time, Spencer took him riding, as Brendon enjoyed the practice and was a natural horseman. They even raced each other over some grasslands, even though Spencer usually frowned upon such amusement as it could be dangerous for the horses if they had the bad luck of stepping into a rabbit hole. But he found it very hard to say no to Brendon, who loved the speed and would always laugh wildly if he managed to spur his horse into victory over Spencer's Loran. Spencer also found himself holding his horse back and letting Brendon win quite often, there was just something special about seeing Brendon so happy and windswept that Spencer found hard to resist.

When they were not galloping around Loughton, Spencer found himself spending inordinate amounts of time in the barn, of all places. Brendon had heard from one of the maids that one of the cats had recently given birth to a litter of kittens, and Brendon found these small creatures completely irresistible. And because Brendon was spending much of his free time in the barn petting the small tabby fur balls, Spencer found himself doing the same. Usually he was much more interested in dogs but even he had to admit that there was something very special about small kittens, especially if Brendon was holding then against his chest oh so carefully and whispering nonsense to them or singing lullabies.

"Kittens are my new favourite thing. I think I would pet them forever if I could." Brendon sighed happily to Spencer as they made their way out of the barn, as it was close to supper time and they needed to change out of their hay-covered garments before joining the rest of the family.

Spencer smiled fondly at Brendon, thinking that Brendon was his new favourite thing and he would also like to pet Brendon forever if he could. Wisely, he did not say that out loud.

~*~

The only times when things were still rather awkward between him and Brendon were when it was time to retire to bed. Brendon had gotten more comfortable with Spencer's presence but would still blush fiercely if they needed to change clothes in the same space and would usually dive under the covers as soon as he was able. Still, Spencer did not think the situation was hopeless as Brendon had also grown more accustomed to Spencer's kisses. The goodnight kisses they exchanged before blowing out the candles had indeed grown both longer and more passionate. Spencer's only concern in the matter was that Brendon did not instigate any physical contact and Spencer still had this gnawing suspicion that he was moving too fast and perhaps Brendon did not wish for them to be in such intimate circumstances together.

Spencer had to stop the kissing rather quickly before he lost the will to hold back, as he was finding out that Brendon stirred his passions with great force, leaving him panting for air only after a few minutes. That Brendon was similarly affected gave Spencer hope that in time they could find great pleasure in each other. He only needed to be patient.

~*~

At the beginning of June, the whole Smith household moved to London for the social season. This generated a flurry of excitement in the twins, for whom this was only their second Season. Neither of them was in a hurry to find themselves spouses but they loved the idea of endless balls, picnics, soirees and other social amusements that were so readily available during the summer months. All the talk of such engagements tended to make Brendon wide eyed and ask many questions that the girls were more than happy to answer.

The house in London was not as spacious as the house on their estate, so the girls had to share a bedroom and there was only one sitting room where they could receive company. Still, it was situated in the right neighborhood and as such would not hurt the girls’ standing in any company, especially as they owned the building in stead of having to rent something for the season as many other families did.

Spencer found that he missed Brendon’s company when the twins would drag him with them as their chaperone on their excursions to Hyde Park or to one of their seemingly endless shopping trips. It also seemed to amuse Josie and Peggy to take Brendon to all the museums and art galleries they could think of, even though his sisters did not usually much care for the fine arts. During these times when he had no need to think of Brendon’s comfort, he tried to track down Ryan and his band of friends. Usually if he got moving early enough he would be able to catch Ryan at his house and then even Ryan could not ignore customs and not invite him along.

So on many early afternoons he found himself following after Ryan, one or both of the Mister Ways and their wives and some other gentlemen and their companions as they spent their time doing much of the same as everyone did during the season, trying to be seen by the right people. After some planned outing the group would then retire to some coffee shop where they spent hours talking about poetry, philosophy, plays, art and many such things that Spencer did not really know anything about. Even the things he had learned in school or university he had worked very hard later on to forget so these outings tended to bore him immensely. What they did, however, manage to convince him of was that these were not bad people, luring Ryan into decadence and ruin. They did have some very unorthodox views about society and its norms but all in all Spencer was willing to find them rather agreeable.

This was not the case when Mister Wentz joined them. Usually this did not happen for he had proclaimed once that he considered it a day wasted if he was able to get out of bed before two in the afternoon. Still, whenever he was present the conversations about politics, religion and philosophy tended to get more radical and heated. This happened even among the group of friends who all seemed to like Mister Wentz very much, still they seemed to love arguing about the Anglican Church’s morality or the new laws parliament had passed even more. These were the topics that Spencer was not happy to hear about, for he could see how hard Ryan listened and how fervently he seemed to agree with Mister Wentz.

After returning from one of these outings Spencer usually had a headache and a sour mood. It did not help that he still usually needed to join his family and spouse and go out to dinner parties, dances or concerts. Brendon usually seemed quite worried about his darker moods, keeping his distance and avoiding conversation, which in turn made Spencer curse himself for it was always bad when Brendon went back to his old ways of trying to keep as far away from Spencer as possible. Still he could not help but to think it was a relief that he did not need to answer Brendon’s questions and make conversation about things Brendon seemed fascinated with and which Spencer either knew nothing of or cared little about.

He did try to make up for his rude behaviour when he had not had to suffer Mister Wentz’ company, and tried his best to be a good companion for his spouse and not ruin the whole experience of being in society for him. Concerts were always the best for this, as Brendon loved them, no matter which composer was presented, or which instruments were used or if there was a soloist or not. Usually Brendon ended up gripping Spencer’s arm or his hand in excitement, not even noticing he was doing it and then grinning so widely once the performance was over it was almost blinding.

At these moments Spencer was most tempted to lean down and kiss his spouse, and sometimes he thought that Brendon saw this in his eyes for he tended to blush and bite his lip. He did not look apprehensive though which Spencer counted as progress in his efforts to win over Brendon’s trust. In these moments the only thing keeping him back was the need for proper decorum.

~*~

In the beginning of July, on one sweltering evening Spencer found himself getting some air on a huge balcony in the mansion where they were attending a ball. It had been a pleasant evening so far, he had danced with his spouse and watched his sisters have their pick of partners and even his parents had joined in for a dance or two - Vivian generally tried to avoid dancing, claiming she had two left feet and no sense of tempo.

He had also spoken with Captain Bryar, who had joined his brother and his wife on London for a few weeks. The conversation had been brief but most enjoyable, and Spencer had made plans with Captain Bryar so they might meet again soon. He had certainly missed the presence of his sensible friend.

Now he spotted Ryan on the dance floor - Unfortunately with Mister Wentz, and he hoped that Captain Bryar had not met his old acquaintance. Surely it would ruin the evening for Captain Bryar, even if Spencer would otherwise have enjoyed seeing Mister Wentz suffer some discomfort. Spencer leaned his hip against the balcony parapet and turned to look at the garden, where some couples were strolling along gravel paths, pointing beautiful statues and trinkets to one another. “Are you not enjoying the dancing?” a voice asked and Spencer turned to see Brendon standing a few feet away, smiling happily.

“I only needed a short respite, I must confess that my feet cannot take as much dancing as you seem able to enjoy.” Spencer answered, and held out a hand to Brendon who walked to him and took hand into his own.

“I could never get tired of dancing. It is the most marvelous thing in existence.” Brendon claimed and came to stand side by side with Spencer so that Spencer was able to put his arm around Brendon’s shoulder.

“Then I am glad you have been able to attend this many balls. I must warn you though that there will not be so many chances for dancing during the winter months.” Spencer said, and was about to add something else when another voice interrupted him.

“Spencer Smith. What are you doing here in the dark canoodling with another young man? I thought you were a fine and upstanding fellow.”

Spencer gritted his teeth and turned to look at the source of the voice finding himself face to face with Mister Wentz and Ryan.

“Mister Wentz, may I present my spouse, Brendon Urie-Smith.” He introduced the men and glared at Wentz’ smirking face – the man seemed completely impervious to any chastising no matter how direct.

“Oh, charmed, I’m sure. You must be very happy to have such a gentleman as a husband. Always knows what is proper and what is not.” Mister Wentz said, obviously mocking him, but Brendon did not seem to notice.

He said. “Yes, Spencer has always behaved as a gentleman should, I find myself admiring that quality in him more and more.”

Mister Wentz seemed ready to continue talking but Ryan interrupted him by saying. “We should get something to drink. Spencer I will talk to you again soon.” He pulled Mister Wentz away and back inside even though they could hear Mister Wentz complain and ask why they had not gone out to the garden as they had planned.

“Mister Wentz did not seem to like you very much.” Brendon said when it was just the two of them again.

Spencer nodded. “The feeling is mutual. I do not care for him and wish Ryan would not hold him in such a high regard. I do not see what Ryan could possibly find so agreeable in that wretched man.” He had to bite his lip to stop himself from going on a tirade about the many faults of Mister Wentz.

“Are Mister Wentz and Mister Ross courting?” Brendon asked, frowning slightly, obviously trying to make sense of the situation.

“Not officially, and I will do my best to stop it from happening, officially or unofficially.” Spencer muttered darkly.

Brendon remained silent for a moment and then asked: “I have understood that Mister Ross is the most important person to you, outside of your family?”

“Of course, I have known him my whole life.” Spencer replied absentmindedly, still seething after the brief encounter with Mister Wentz and then continued. “Why don’t we go back inside, I am sure my mother is wondering where we wandered off to.”

For some reason Brendon seemed more subdued for the rest of the evening, but Spencer was distracted from his spouse’s unusual behaviour by a conversation he overheard on his way back from the front hall. He had gone to make sure the carriage would be ready to take them home earlier than expected, for his mother had got into an argument with her old nemesis from the Naturalists’ Society, and would not stay under the same roof with them a moment longer.

Spencer was on his way back to the powder room where the women usually put on their capes and gloves when he noticed Mister Wentz speaking with another man on the stairwell. Spencer pulled to a halt, for he did not wish to speak with Mister Wentz and he hoped the men would quickly move on without noticing him there. Unluckily, it seemed that they were in the middle of an argument.

“How many times do you expect me to apologize, Patrick?” Mister Wentz sounded rather unlike his normal cocky self and Spencer found himself quite happy for that.

“I do not want your apologies, Pete, I do not want anything from you. I have told you to stop writing and I have not seen you in more than three years. Is that not clear enough for you? You made your choice long ago and there is nothing more for us to discuss.”

It took Spencer a moment too long, but then it dawned on him that this man arguing with Mister Wentz had to be Captain Bryar’s cousin. The man Mister Wentz had been engaged to. He peeked around the corner of the barrister to the stairs to take a better look at the man with Mister Wentz and saw that he was very short, slightly plump and had similar colouring to Captain Bryar. He could not have looked more different to Ryan and Spencer wondered about which of them was closer to Mister Wentz’ true tastes.

“Patrick, I have explained my actions to you numerous times! You know I had to marry Ashlee, what else could I have done? Left her to ruin? Is that the kind of man you would have married?” Mister Wentz sounded angry and desperate to Spencer’s ears, although he was not by any measure an expert on Mister Wentz’ moods.

“You should not have lain with her in the first place!” The man—Patrick, definitely sounded angry. “We were engaged!”

“Patrick, wait!” Mister Wentz’ voice sounded like it was getting further away and Spencer looked around the corner again and saw the Mister Wentz hurrying after his former fiancé. Spencer took to the stairs slower, deep in thought as he went to inform his family they could leave soon.

It had seemed to him that Mister Wentz still felt very strongly about the man he had been engaged to, strongly enough to beg for his forgiveness and understanding even after such a long time. Had Spencer thought Mister Wentz capable of such emotion, he would have said Mister Wentz still loved this Patrick. And where did that leave Ryan? It seemed that Mister Wentz’ feelings could be questioned on several fronts.

~*~

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