I would like to thanks Megan and Mer, for reading it while it was just an idea. Thanks to my friend Trinity for having the patient enough (cuz she doesn’t like too much TN) and thanks myself for having this idea out of nowhere.

Mixing feelings

by

Jaby
(cat__soul@hotmail.com)

• Dad? –

• Yes C.C? –

• Does love really exist? –

• No kitten it doesn’t – he said caressing his 5 years old daughter’s hair.

• Ah –

• Why do you ask? –

• Just curious, I thought maybe if it did I could learn to love some day –

Stuart smiled and kisses her forehead.

• Do you want me to buy you an ice-cream? –

• Kay – she said smiling back at him.

• Niles!!!!- Fran, Max, Maggie, Brighton & Gracie shouted from down stairs.

• You think he's going to be here soon? We're already late for our flight, darling - Max said giving Fran a slight kiss on her lips.

• I think carrying 5 bags from upstairs is too much for him after his heart attack problem, we should go and help... - Max starts kissing her deeply- He'll handle it –

Niles comes down with the 5 suitcases and in the middle if the staircase he "accidentally" drops them.

• Ups –

• It's okay old man, you'll be without us in one second, and we won't bother you more for 4 long weeks –

Niles daydreams and sighs.

• Well, everything is settled; family we're ready to England! - Max said.

• Truly, Fran do we have to go? - Maggie complained.

• Let’s please your father for one time, I'm sure there will be lots of hot guys there... –

• Right - Mags giggled - but I'm with Michael now –

• But ya're not dead sweetheart –

• I'm going there to appreciate the English... cheese...- B affirmed.

• Don't you mean the English chicks -

• Ha-ha very funny, Grace-

• Actually master Brighton, it was kinda funny –

• Oh shut up Niles –

• Well, now all of you take your bags and get into the limo, we’re missing the plane, bye old man, don't forget to tell C.C about the meeting tonight, and she's having vacations too so you'll have all the house for yourself. –

• Right sir, ok sir, I’ll do it sir, Good bye sir - He closes the door behind them and let out a mayor sigh.

The house to himself for 4 long weeks. He smiled, he was going to have such a good time... all alone, with no trouble, or making now one but himself coffee, or dinner, he could go out, don't clean and make it all in the last day, smoke Mr. Sheffield’s cigars and drink his best brandy, and he wasn't around, all alone....

Ding-Dong.

Darn!!!!!!!!!!!

He looks back; C.C is at the other side of the door. "Why do you make this to me?" Niles said skyward.

He looked at her again and she dings again, he turned his back and left.

• Niles!!! You damn excuse for a butler comes here and open this door –

• Who's demanding me to do it, you? The ice queen? –

• Exact... Oh! Just open! –

He smiles and then goes to open the door. She comes in and hands her coat to him.

• Well I must assume Maxwell already left, leaving me all the work–

• And she scores! –

She glares at him.

• By the way Maxwell told me to tell you that he's not paying you this month they're out - She said walking towards the office.
  
• Yeah, right you're just saying that... Are you? –

• You wish –

• You mean you're serious –

• Niles, you know me - she says innocently - I would never kid with something like this - then she laughs in her throatily way.

• But...I need the money to buy...- he looks at her - none of your business, this is so bloody unfair! –

• Life is not fair, darling. For example, you're here cleaning toilets and living in your employer’s house while I'm with all my millions and my Park Avenue apartment. - She smiles sitting in the love couch.

He looked at her and sighed.

• What? What are you waiting for, go to wash something –

Niles looked skyward once more and smiled. He closed the door behind him and imagined a whole month without her; it was going to be bloody sweet!

She took her briefcase and got some papers out, then she looked to the door, her heart felt joy or something like that... One month without Rubbermaid, this was going to be heaven!

She started reading the papers really slowly; after all she had nothing to do for the rest of the day, hasn’t she?...

The hours passed slowly, to Niles’ contentment. He made some food for him, Babcock didn’t want a thing, despise the fact that he offered her. Hey, at least he tried! The Sheffields were not even in the middle of the trip and Mrs. Sheffield had called three times to make sure her mother wasn’t there, that Niles wasn’t bored, and that he and Miss Babcock were still alive. Mr. Sheffield was the one to hang up the three times and Niles chuckled to himself that the both were so different and such a good match.

Niles poured him some scotch, took the paper and sat in the kitchen table just relaxing, things couldn’t get any better. After 5 years Mr. Sheffield had finally, FINALLY! Made his move. They were happily married since then; despise, of course, all the failed attempts of Fran in getting pregnant. The kids were so grown up, Maggie was happy with Michael, sure he envied him, young, rich, model, he was one of those guys who did nothing and won everything, and him, who killed himself to get his boss a cigar got nothing, well six bucks an hour weren’t enough anymore. After being Maxwell’s best friend for all his life he needed some reward.

He sipped the whiskey just to notice it was gone.

And now the money problem, he seriously needed that money... these were his vacations but he needed so desperately the cash that he had to do some kind of work... perhaps looking something as a butler for 10, or more bucks the hour would do it....

• Niles!!!! -

• I saw that one coming – he stood up and walked to the office.

C.C was furious, she walked through one side of the office to the other, just thinking of the best way of telling that damn butler how much she hated him that moment!

• How could you forget to tell me something like that?!- She yelled when he came in.

• I don’t know what you’re talking about, forget what? –

• Don’t play nice, mister, Maxwell is not here to protect you anymore –

• I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about, but if that’s the game you want to play I’ll happily join –

• Stop doing like you don’t know –

• I DON’T!!! –

• Yeah right, like you had forgotten about the meeting, go to other dog with that bone... – then she realized she had set him up, again... – Don’t say a word –

• I wasn’t – he said innocently – Woof–woof –

• Just forget it – She looked at the time – I’m even more delayed for your fault – She took her briefcase and walked to the door with Niles behind her.

He took her coat and threw it on top of her.

• How sweet of you Hazel – She laughed and just before closing the door she added – But remember, I’ll be back –

• Really? And by that time you would prefer just a bone or Alpo included –

• How funny, funny, funny, funny... – the closing door made her words fade.

Niles smiled sitting in the second step of the stair, he loved doing that word fight with her. It was like an inner pleasure traveled through his body every time she responded to one of his remarks. He remembered the time she was in The Place, he had really missed her company, but he was no one to complain, after all he had being the mayor cause she was send there in first place.

He absolutely didn’t mean to forget telling her about the meeting, but at this time it was something totally unconscious. But he had other things in mind now Babs had leave... Niles walked to the kitchen took a red pen and reached for the news paper looking in the job application.

"Bell boy needed in the "Four Seasons hotel" good payment. Full time job..." Could be... Babcock would have a heck of a time watching him doing that.

"Help wanted bridal shop in Flushing, Queens. Part time job, $5.oo per hour..." Mhm...Curious. Could it be?

"Dancer needed that can perform "Old time R&R" in a sexy way. Requirements; sexy & without commitment..." Niles laughed hard at this one remembering certain song, certain movie & certain blond.

"Butler wanted, full time job, we require a persons with skills, capacity and experience in the job. $ 10.00 per hour, payment negotiable..." He circled it in red and took the phone.

Dialed.

• Beauvais residence. What can I do for you? –

• My name is Niles, I’m calling for the job application –

• Oh monsieur Niles, wait a second. –

A second passed.

• I’ll make you a few questions and then we’ll see if you can get interviewed –

• No problem –

• Do you have some kind of experience in the job? –

• I’ve been doing this for 30 years now, but before that I worked at my employer’s father’s house where my parents worked –

• Ok. If the master of the house is not home you take a Jacuzzi and drink his brandy, put all things in order or go out with some friends until he gets back. –

• Who are we kidding? The first one, of course –

• Right answer – The man in the other line answer as he laughed – last question, here in this mansion we have a pretty demanding lady and you’ll have to do everything she wants. If she’s having visits and you forgot the main meal you order out or distracts them until you have settled everything –

• You order out, of course, we wouldn’t want the guests waiting, wouldn’t we? –

• Excellent choice. Come tomorrow at the address in the paper with your resin mate we will be waiting for you, Niles, is it? –

• Indeed –

• Last name? –

• Just Niles, like Cheer –

• Old joke at the Butler Association, huh? –

• Yeah, so far no one knows my last name –

• Neither mine –

And they both laughed until Niles hang up.

Ok, the money issue was solved. But he was out of vacations! He was going to find a way of convincing Mr. Sheffield that he needed other month of rest.

Niles woke up from a dream he couldn’t remember. His breathing was heavy and he had sweat all over his forehead. He looked at the time, 7:23. He had to get ready for the interview for his new job. He stood up and went to the bathroom, took a cold shower and loose track of time.

He took a cup a coffee dressed as the usual, took the news paper and read nothing; actually he wasn’t in the mood for reading. He sipped once more and finished the cup. He checked everything was in order because he wasn’t going to be back, at least, until Saturday. He took his suitcase and made his way to the foyer.

Ring!!!!

He put the bag in the floor and answers the phone.

• Sheffield residence –

• Hello, old man –

• Sir –

• I was just calling to make sure everything was ok –

• It is –

• C.C went to that meeting, didn’t she? –

• Yes she did, sir –

• Oh, well have a nice vacations then Niles –

• Sir? –

• Yes? –

• I won’t be having vacations, remember what you told Miss Babcock to tell me? –

• Eh...hum... vaguely –

• Well as a matter of fact I really need the money, and I don’t want to disturb your vacations so... – Oh I’m getting good at this guilt thing! – I got another full time job –

• I’m sorry old man but it’s just... –

• You don’t need to explain it, say hello to Mrs. Sheffield and the kids from me and to my parents if you run into them –

• I will –

• Bye sir –

• And Niles! –

• What? –

• Take care –

• I will –

Niles closed the door and made his way to the limo.

The day was cloudy and some raindrops filled the front glass of the limousine. But it didn’t really matter because he had arrived at his destiny. He looked at the address in the paper and the address is the mansion; matched.

He stepped out and ringed the doorbell. A tall handsome forty something butler, with black hair and blue eyes opened the door.

• I came here for... –

• You must be the butler that called yesterday –

• Yes, I’m Niles – They shook hands.

• My name is Nathaniel; I’m the butler in charge of the new help. But as I see you seemed to have experience so I’ll limit myself to show you the place and give you some basic instructions, you’ll be on proof for today, any mistake you make will be considered and any succeed you approach will be rewarded. Welcome.

• I certainly feel so – Niles mumbled.

• Said something? –

• No... Where do I put my luggage? –

• Timothy!! –

A young man of around 20 years came running from the hall. He was dressed just as Nathaniel was, in a black suit.

• Yes sir? –

• I want you to get Mr. Niles’ luggage to his room, please. –

• Yes, sir. – He looked at Niles and shook hands – Welcome sir – he took Niles’ bags and got lost in the staircase.

• Who is him? –

• He is the chef’s son, Timothy. Training to be a Butler, in summer he’ll go to the Butler’s college in England. We are very proud of him. He is almost like my own son –

For one second Niles felt that Timothy was exactly like him. And he smiled for that.

• Follow me –

And Niles did.

• This is the kitchen – Nath said as he pointed to a wood door. He crossed it and there was a kitchen twice as big as the Sheffields. At least 5 people working in a big meal – There are going to be guests tonight. You do know how to cook, do you? –

• No reason to even ask me. You name it I cook it. –

• Good, because this is going to be a busy month –

Niles looked around.

• Edgar, Juliet, Helen, Gregory, Angelo this is Niles. The new butler-

• Hello, welcome, hi, Morning – They said without looking at him.

Niles didn’t have the chance to figure which one was which one because Nath was already out of there. They took at least an hour to cover the whole house, the bedrooms, the bathrooms, the office, etc.

• You can make your way to your room now. Lunch is served properly at 2:00, for the help. You won’t start working until that is finished. Rest or take a walk until then, you can talk to the Mistress of the house if you like. Timothy can lead you to her –

• Thank you –

• No problem –

Niles came out of his room after getting his things ready and run into Timothy that was running from the other side of the corridor.

• Hello sir. – He said as he passed through Niles.

• Wait kid! –

• What is it, sir –

• Don’t call me sir. I’m Niles –

• Ok, Niles –

• Where are you going? –

• Miss Georgina called for me –

• Why don’t you show me the way, I would like to meet her –

• Ok sir... Niles –

They walked towards the office, once in Timothy opened the door that lead to the back yard, and to the pool. There she was, a 37 year old brunette swimming in a tiny bikini. Niles’ eyes open wide and Tim laughed quietly.

• I suppose this is the new butler – she said as she got out of the water.

• Yes ma’am –

• My pleasure – Niles said as they shook hands. "Certainly my pleasure, if that certain blond didn’t..."

• No, consider it mine – She smiled – Tim, get things ready for tonight, you know who is coming? –

• Yes Miss –

• And you...-

• Niles –

• Niles, Nath’ll tell you what to do after lunch, if you want you can stay here and chat –

• She likes you – Tim whispered in Niles ear before he left running again.

• Why thank you–

• So, I can see you are from England –

• Certainly, London. I’m Maxwell Sheffield’s butler... – He saw how she gasped and then faked a smile.

• Maxwell? The Broadway producer? –

• Yes, why? –

• Nothing just wondering, why don’t’ you take a look at the house I have some calls to make –

• No problem –

• Juliet! – Edgar yelled from the kitchen to the employee’s yard.

• Coming –

• We are really glad to have you here – A blond brown eyed lady said to Niles with out taking her eyes of the oven.

• Thank you Helen – Niles said making the Martinis.

• Really thanks to you, as Nath said we have a really busy month –

• But I’ll probably stay less than that –

• Anyway, always a pair more of hands is welcome – Angelo added taking care of the soup.

• Who is coming to dinner? – Niles asked curious.

• Miss Beauvais’ family, from his maternal side... – Gregory said looking skyward – is actually the best part of the year, all the beautiful ladies arrive –

• Greg!! – Juliet said hitting him playfully.

• Don’t worry hon, I have eyes just for you –

• Yes, you’re just fantasying about them – Helen recalled.

• Does Miss Beauvais have been married? – Our most sexy butler asked.

• Yes, once – Juliet said in her sweet little voice, she had green eyes and long curly light brown hair – they divorced and she kept everything he own.

• After the accident Miss Georgina had they divorced, and she blamed him for the accident that way she could get what she wanted – Edgar checked the turkey.

• Is dinner ready? The guests are arriving – Tim said opening the door and waiting for an answer.

• Give us one second –

• Ok, the maids are serving the cocktail, Niles you hand the martinis, please – Nath said from outside the kitchen.

• I will – he took the tray and carefully enough went out the kitchen, crossed the dining room and arrived where all the people was gathering.

They took the martinis as flies would get honey. Niles looked around, they were all debutants, and Georgina smiled to him and came closer.

• So far, excellent work Niles – She said touching his chest provoking him. Niles smiled at her but as soon as someone called her she was lost in the crowd.

There wasn’t that much people, 10 maximum. But they talked and fight and screamed more than Miss Fine’s family... bad example. Suddenly the doorbell rang. Everyone was quiet. Georgina looked nervous. Nathaniel went to open the door, Tim stood at his side.

He opened the door. Niles wanted to see what a big deal everyone made for this. He saw Tim took some bags and went with them to one of the guests rooms. Then from the dark rainy night a woman came...

• Hello hello –

No way, it couldn’t be!!!!!!!!!

• C.C darling, you’re late as always -

• Gigi, dear, I’m not late you’re early just to bother me –

• Me bothering you, please –

• I’m glad you made it, sis – Noel called from the couch.

"I new that some people here were familiar! They are the Babcocks!!"

• Noel, so long since I didn’t have the time to beat your pathetic ass-

• Ditto, sister –

• Why don’t you take a martini, C.C – she said pointing Niles – he is our new butler –

C.C gasped, looked at him just as uncomfortable as he looked at her. This couldn’t be happening. But it was so, let’s enjoy it!

• Of course – she said getting near Niles, everyone cared again of their own business – So new butler, huh? Rubbermaid.

• Needed the money witch. What spell did you make on me to run into you just when I was trying to get rid of you? –

• A very successful one, it seems –

• Get out of my way –

• I can’t, I’m staying here this whole month – She said smiling sweetly at him.

• You’re not! – He said almost dropping the tray.

• I am – and she disappeared.

Niles took a deep breath and went into the kitchen.

• This is going to be a long month - he said to himself.

• Why? – Helen asked. She was in one dark corner so Niles hadn’t seen her.

• Oh...Helen, Miss Babcock is here –

• DUH... which one –

• C.C Babcock the Broadway producer –

• Oh, her, she is really cranky –

• Tell me about it –

• Sometimes a real bitch –

• Tell ME about it! –

• But the guys are all the time around her, like some kind of spell –

• Huh? –

• I’m telling ya, she is beautiful and all but they just make everything she wants, even massages –

He didn’t know why but his blood was slowly boiling.

• You’re just jealous Helen – Tim said entering the kitchen and lighting a cigar.

• I’m not –

• Yes you are –

• I’m not –

• Kids!!! – Niles yelled trying to lighten up the conversation.

• She is just jealous because C.C is prettier than her –

Niles laughed hard.

• Miss Babcock, pretty – he couldn’t stop laughing – that is the best joke I’ve heard in months, good one Tim –

• How did you meet her? – Helen asked washing her hands.

Niles thought. Every moment he had cheered with Babcock crossed his mind.

• She is my employer’s business partner –

• Oh, so you are with her all the year, great –

• No Tim, we hate each other, we are always at each other’s throats –

• Literally? –

One memory pop in his head, them, together in the living room of the Sheffields. – I loathe you – I despise you – Servant – Trollop- Bell Boy – Brunette...

• Tim! – Helen hit him in the arm.

• What? She is hot, besides I can say what I want –

Niles looked back at them as soon as the word hot was mentioned.

• You’ll need a lot of better manners if you want to get accepted in college, young man –

• I know, but with the masters of the house I totally behave –

• I’m going to bed guys. Nath is probably looking for you. Dinner is about to be served –

Niles and Timothy went to the dining room. All the Babcocks were sat around the table. Niles glared to C.C and she glared back.

• Good thing you’re here – Nath said with an angry look.

• Sorry, sir – Tim looked down.

• Don’t be sorry, just help serving – he smelled him – and the next time, don’t smoke while you are working.

• I won’t, sir –

• You Niles serve the ones over there – He quietly pointed one corner of the table.

They served and then Edgar, Angelo, Nath, Tim and Niles just stood behind the chairs.

• You mean you took every single penny he had? – Some strange women said from one corner of the table.

• Absolutely, what’s worth the living if you can’t get what the others have? – Gigi said and all the Babcocks laughed in their throaty way.

• What about you C.C. When are you thinking in getting married? –

• Constantly, right baby sister? Is just there is no one so up to her standards – Noel said with a grin.

• Shut up Noel –

Niles smiled and tried to maintain composure but this was just too good, Nath gave him a warning look.

• No seriously C.C when, I mean is not like you’re getting any younger- D.D took a bite of turkey.

• Can we just change the subject? –

• But Claire, your biological clock is running, soon you will not have a chance to be a mother –

• I told you all to shut up! –

• No reason to be like that, darling –

• She is kind of right, mom, every year we have this reunion we end up talking about her single status, is getting really boring- A girl around 25 talked –

• Why? You want us to talk about yours? –

• No I just... –

• You wouldn’t believe it this year she have been proposed at least two times, and what she said? No, she wasn’t ready for commitment. –

• I am not! –

• You are 25, what are you waiting for, Kiky –

• I won’t stand this any longer – She stood up from the table grabbed her coat and prepared herself to leave.

• Kiky come back here in this same moment –

• I’ll be at home, if you want to reach me call me there, mom, I’m taking your car –

• Kiky...- But she was lost in the rain.

Angelo came closer to Niles.

• 1 out 9 to go – They both laughed.

• I think I’ll go and get her – Kiky’s mother spoke.

• No sense, darling, you know where she is. Besides let’s enjoy what’s left. Noel how is your business going? – Gigi added.

• Fantastic! I just need a couple of investors willing to loose everything –

• I have some friends I could introduce you to– C.C said taking a long sip of wine.

• Have you sleep with them yet? Because knowing them, if you made a bad work in bed they won’t invest with him... –

• Shut up D.D! You know I’m great in bed – She said looking at Niles, smiling. He raised his eyebrow.

• All I know is those incredible hot stories you have told me, but I’m sure half of them are lies – They all laughed.

• Believe what you want –

• We are –

• Ok, C.C, give me the number of those investors, I’ll call them –

She looked in her pocket.

• Here –

Niles closed the door as the last guest left. He sighed and rolled his eyes when he saw Babcock sitting on the couch boozing. Nath looked at him and said.

• It seems you know her better than any of us, you take care of her. I’ll handle Miss Beauvais. –

• Wait Nath! – But he was gone – Damn! –

He got near at her.

• Why Babcock? Why? – He said as he sat next to her and took a glass of wine.

• Why what? I didn’t know you were going to be here, I come here every year around this days –

• Yeah right. Family reunion? –

• Mhm, I think I’ll head of to bed – she stood, give a few steps and felt.

• Come here, you fat old bat– He took her in his arms making as if she was really heavy and walked with her to her room.

• Thank you, Rochester –

• I just don’t want the full moon to catch you in a place where everyone can see you – He laughed.

A moment passed.

• Here we are – he opened the door and put her on her feet.

She walked in and quietly closed the door. When the door was closed he shivered, went to take a cold shower and then to sleep.

Niles woke up and looked around, the place wasn’t familiar and for one second he thought he was lost. But then it all came to mind. He was working for Babcock’s cousin, then that made him Babcock’s butler too!

He looked at the time and hurried in getting dressed, he was a little late.

He arrived at the kitchen and everyone was taking a cup of coffee.

• Do you want some? – Greg said offering him a cup.

• Please –

• How was your fist night? Did the ghost hunt you? – Angelo asked.

• I don’t know about ghost, but sure witches did! –

• Witches? –

• Long story – he said – could I use the phone? Is long distance call –

• Sure, no problem, as long as Nath doesn’t hear about it – Edgar handed him the cordless.

Niles dialed.

• Yellow –

• Miss Fine! –

• Niyules! How are you? It’s Mrs. Sheffield now, ya know –

Niles chuckled.

• Max told me about your new job... I hope you don’t dish us for them-

• No can do – how he liked talking to this woman – The work here is fine, there is a large household and everyone is very friendly... –

• But...-

• But, you remembered Miss Babcock was taking vacations too? –

• Yes, she said something about her cousin Gigi’s house, why? –

• Guess, I’m working in "Cousin Gigi’s house" –

• Oy –

• Exactly –

• Good luck then –

• I’ll need it, just calling to make sure everything was fine –

• It is, we are having such a great time, your parents say hello, by the way. –

• Tell them the same from me –

• Well bye then –

• Bye, Fran? –

• Ya? –

• I think you won’t hear from me for a while so don’t tray to reach me –

• Whatever you want –

She said as she hang up and made herself ready for the romantic dinner she was having with Max. 6 hours difference, remember that.

• Who was her? – Juliet asked kissing Greg’s palm.

• My best fiend, ex-nanny and now wife of my employer –

• That family is really mess up! –

• It’s weird, is true, but I love them as my own –

• I know what you mean – Helen bites some bread with butter – I worked for the same family for a really long time, then they moved to Australia and I... –

• Didn’t want to drop everything I had here... – They all repeated.

• Knock it off –

Niles giggled.

• So since when are you two together? – He said pointing Juliet and Greg.

• 23 years now, we met at the cooking class we attended –

• She was the girl in the fist row making the best lemon pie I’ve ever tasted –

• It tasted like rotten meat, you know, but he likes to say I’m the best cooker in the world – They kissed passionately, Niles looked at them with a sad smile on his lips.

Nath came in with two trays on his hands and Tim followed him with two more.

• The ladies are awake and want some breakfast. Why don’t you get it to them, Niles? –

• Ok, Nath... I just wish the hangover didn’t last –

• Don’t waist a wish – Tim say smiling. He looked the display his parents were making – Aren’t you too old for that –

• I am 40 years old and refuse to let my son call me old – Juliet said kissing Tim in the forehead and helping him with the trays.

The words were cut by the door Niles went through, walking towards the dining room were the cousins were having breakfast. Niles hear them talking and hid behind a door to listen to the conversation.

• So you like my new butler, C.C? –

• You knew? Didn’t you? –

• Actually I knew just after he arrived –

• I’m sure this was just a set up – C.C said drinking coffee.

• It wasn’t, dear cousin –

• Lets drop the subject –

• I really don’t want to –

• Why? Why keep with this lie? –

• That’s the same question I’m asking you, why? –

Niles looked at C.C; her eyes were lost inside the coffee cup. Then she reacted.

• I don’t know, that’s the truth –

• But I do... He is sexy, handsome and I love his accent. I’ll take advantages of the situation... Niles! –

Niles a little taken aback came behind the door and glared at the both of them. Gigi giggled. C.C put her cup for more coffee and Niles served it.

• Good morning Niles – Gigi said smiling charmingly at him.

• Good morning Miss Beauvais –

• Morning Butler boy –

• Not so good morning witch -

• C.C I have some things to do, the day is fascinating. Why don’t you take a swim? –

• I’ll think about it –

• What scared of the water? –

• Dream about it, I’m like a mermaid –

• More like a whale, I would say –

• Shut up and serve me more coffee – He did. There was an uncomfortable silence that neither of them wanted to break, but curiosity beat C.C. – That’s the real reason why you are here, the money? –

Niles though of the coincidences, she and him, both together in a place where neither of them were supposed to find each other. If Mr. Sheffield had paid him, if they hadn’t gone in that trip, if he had agreed in going with them, if for one year she hadn’t assist to this stupid family reunion, if he didn’t bought the paper the day before, if he hadn’t forget the meeting, if... That was the real reason why he was there? The money? At this time he wasn’t sure anymore.

• Yes –

• Oh, so you are more cheap than I though –

• Believe me I could give you things you would never dream of – he whisper to himself.

• What? –

• Nothing. Hearing voices? Going crackers again, aren’t we? –

Babcock glared at him.

• Clean this up and then bring me a towel to the swimming pool, and remember you are not Maxwell’s butler anymore, you are totally and completely mine – and she left, leaving an empty room, Niles grinned.

Tim appeared running from down stairs. He looked at Niles who was still looking at the spot where C.C had gone through. He knew, as everyone in this house, the secrets of her life and now one day a man arrived and every secret started making sense, the puzzle was getting together slowly. Timothy had grown inside the Babcock’s family, actually he had a thing for Kiky, but since he was a little boy they taught him that classes didn’t mixed... Every one, especially Nath had put especial emphasis on that, since he heard about that innocent kiss between the both of them... but who knew, maybe Nath was wrong, for once maybe that strange man that walked a day ago through that door had all the answers.

Tim smiled and kept doing his work.

Almost a week had passed and Niles was certainly making more money that in the Sheffields. They had raised his salary already, not even a week had passed. (Did I say that twice?!)

Niles was having fun, as everyone else since he had arrived. They were chipper and Tim had learned some things that no even Nath could have taught him.

• And this way you get the intercom to start without any sound-

• Ah – Tim pressed the button and a loud "pip" was heard.

• No, no, no, no, no – Niles turned it of – This way –

He turned it on quietly.

• See? –

• Lets hear what their saying –

Both put their ears really near the intercom.

• I’m telling you, darling C.C, you can’t go to that party without a partner, and it’ll be pathetic, besides you need someone to protect you!-

• Remember what was my last trail about? I chocked a damn choreographer for Pete’s sake! I don’t need someone to take care of me –

• But it’s still pathetic –

Niles laughed and Tim shushed him.

• I think she’ll need someone to escort her. Up for the job? – Tim quietly teased him.

• Shut up! –

They keep listening.

• Why don’t you go with Tim? –

• Tim? The guy that is like 3 years old–

• C’mon, he is cute –

• Are you up for the job? – Niles teased back.

• Definitely –

• Then what about Nath? –

• Too bitter –

• But he is great in bed! –

• Gigi! –

Niles and Tim looked at each other smiling. How could Nath hide something like that?

• You’re too picky. What about Niles? You work with him after all. You two must really know each other –

There was a long silence and they heard a sigh from the other side of the intercom.

• I don’t know. He’ll through it on my face any time he gets. –

• Then I’ll ask him out –

• What?! -

• They are fighting over you, man! – Tim yelled.

Niles rolled his eyes and as fast as he could, got Tim out of there. Tim followed him.

• What? – He asked uncertain.

• Rule number one: NEVER, EVER YELLED INFRONT OF THE INTERCOM!!! –

• Sorry –

• Niles!!!!!!!!! – C.C’s voice was heard in the whole mansion.

• Sorry, sir –

• No problem Tim, I’ll just blame everything over you –

• But... ok –

He walked towards the office.

• Needed something Miss Babcock? –

• Don’t play nice! You were hearing over the intercom –

• Me? Hearing over the intercom? Please I’m deeply offended–

• Yeah right Mr. Old Time R&R –

• Chicken –

• Gambler –

• Witch –

• Rat –

Gigi cleaned her throat, tension was too high. She smiled in the fake Babcock’s way and pulled them apart.

• Niles you can go now – Gigi said watching the sparkle in the eyes of her cousin.

• Thank you ma’am –

• Wait! – She shouted almost at the time Niles was closing the door – Are you available tonight, is Saturday, maybe you have plans –

• No, Miss Beauvais, why? –

• I wanted to ask you out, I’m having a business dinner and I don’t have date –

He looked at Babcock who turned her eyes from him, looking through the window.

• I have nothing to do. –

• Be ready at 8. –

And he left. C.C looked into Gigi’s eyes, with such anger and hate that it almost scares Gigi. C.C got up and went out to the back yard.

She ran through some trees and sat in the grass, it was moist, but it didn’t matter. She put her hair behind her ears and though.

"Why?" was the question that surrounded her mind. Why everything had to happen this way? Why she didn’t take those damn tickets to Cancun her mother offered her? Why she had preferred to spend her vacations with her cousin, as she always did? Why Niles appeared here? Why he took just this job? Why, out of all the places in the world he could be he had to be right here?

• Why? – She sighed.

• Some questions just don’t have answers – A deep voice said behind some trees.

C.C looked better and saw Nath’s face with some dirt. He was wearing an apron and was doing some gardening.

• What? –

• Some questions don’t have answers – he said without taking the eyes from what he was doing.

• Funny, huh? – How life can change so fast in just one moment, or with just one word.

• How life can change so fast in just one moment, or with just one word? –

• How did you know what I was thinking? –

• You were thinking that? – He said laughing – I didn’t know –

• Yeah, right –

C.C was off in her thoughts again when she heard Nath’s voice calling for her.

• I could go with you, if it makes you feel better –

• What? Where? –

• To the party –

• How did you know about that? –

• I have ears and I’m a butler, you put the pieces together –

She laughed. A butler being nice to her...weird, but she liked it.

• Ok, but if anyone knows you are a butler, think of yourself as a dead man –

• Fair enough –

• Deal? –

• Deal –

C.C came down stairs in a hurry, and maybe for that reason missed the look Niles’ eyes were giving her. She was wearing a blued dress, with low cut, that almost reach the floor. The parts below the thighs were transparent blue and black fabric. She looked like a witch and the dress made the color of her eyes look even prettier and her skin appear "white chocolate", which made Niles remember how much he hated that French man.

Gigi was wearing a red dress with long sleeves and without back. It was below the knee and it fit her dreamily. Nath’s jaw drop when she came downs stairs with her brown hair in a stylish pony tail and claiming for the time.

"Sexy, very sexy" were Angelo’s thoughts when he picked through the closest door. Nor Tim, Greg, or Edgar were missing this for the world. They grinned as both ladies came downstairs looking like princesses, Babcock princesses but princesses nonetheless.

Nath took C.C by her hand and showed her the way out. Opened the door and went outside. Niles and Gigi walked arm in arm behind them and she noticed when her date started staring at her cousin’s back side.

• The limo should be here in any minute – Nath said with his butler accent.

• Lighten up, will ya? – C.C told him looking from the corner of her eye at Niles who was telling something funny to Gigi.

• Says who? – Niles remarked looking at her.

• Can you two not fight just for tonight it’s really getting into my nerves – Georgina said rolling her eyes.

• No, I can’t /sorry force of habit – they said at the same time.

The limo arrived in that chilly night where the moon was full and the stars were strangely brighter.

• Ladies first – Niles said as he let Gigi entered but when C.C was getting in he almost closes the door in her nose – Ladies I said –

• I don’t see you coming in –

So he let that one pass and C.C got into the Limo comfortably. He manage for Nath to go through the other door that way he was sit next to his nemesis.

Once in the trip was quiet. One slip of her hand and occasionally their hands met, causing both little electroshocks; but one time, without noticing it their hands joined, and when it was time to go out because they had arrived they made as nothing had happened like so many times before.

• Here we are – Gigi said taking Niles’ arm and hurrying inside.

• If you allow me – Nath put his arm to take C.C’s arm and they quietly walked inside.

• Here is out table – They sit and asked for drinks.

• Wasn’t this a business dinner? – Niles asked as he looked around and saw nothing but couples and people that seemed nothing familiar with business.

• It is – Gigi excused herself – They should be here any minute –

• They are here, Gigi – C.C said pointing out 4 men that were coming through the door and looking for someone. – Roger! Here!- C.C waved.

The four men, with four other women came closer to their table.

• So long since I didn’t see you, C.C Babcock –

• How are you too, Mark? –

• Witty as always – a man with blond hair pointed out.

• You must be Daniel, my name is Georgina, please to meet you –

• This is Andrew, and I’m Roger as you must know – He said as Niles and Nath stood up to shake hands.

• I’m Niles and this is... –

• Nath, please take a sit –

• I haven’t seen you before, are you investors? – Daniel asked.

• No... They are new in this business – C.C saved the night.

• Oh, and in what do you work? – Mark looked at Niles.

• I’m a writer, now I’m working in a play named "Love, Valet and Compassion" – C.C glared at him, but he just grinned back.

• Sounds interesting – Roger pointed out.

• This is Summer – a dyed blond 20 something smiled as Daniel showed her up– This is Cynthia, Joy and Patricia –

Niles looked at Nath and raised an eyebrow. C.C looked at Gigi and they both retained their laughter.

• I see you already order drinks –

• Yes we did, but order what you want –

They did. Niles quietly notices how Daniel looked at C.C with a smile in his lips.

• Let’s talk about business – C.C declares.

• Business? Please Babcock I see you hadn’t change. Enjoy yourself; we have the rest of the night to talk business. Come here, dance with me – Daniel took her by her hand and dragged her to the dance floor.

• What the hell!! – C.C couldn’t resist.

• Dance, just dance. See it’s easy, follow the music –

• Daniel I really don’t want to dance right now –

• With me no, but with that cheesy butler you will –

• How did you... – Thinking of Niles.

• You thought I wouldn’t notice. I’ve been in you cousin’s house a million times. Didn’t have a date on time, did you? Where is Max, he is usually your last-time-date? –

• Europe –

• I see – He said dipping C.C. They made some turns and in one of them C.C could see the table they were in. Gigi was entertaining the rest of the investors pretty well; but Niles didn’t keep his eyes out of Summer.

Niles wasn’t listening at all what Summer was saying about dying and hair care. He had his mind focus in the guy C.C was dancing with, and his hands movement, that were getting pretty low... He was about to go there and hit the man in the nose when C.C ended the dancing. Daniel laughed and checked out C.C’s backside as she sat next to the butler.

• Come here Summer let’s dance – He took Summer’s hand and danced with her a little more.

• Who was that? – Niles asked C.C as she sat next to Nath.

• Old boyfriend –

• So you do sleep with the investors? – He said as if he didn’t care.

• Shut up, butl... –

He grinned seeing she was trapped without any insults. One by one the people in the table started to disappear: dancing, until there were only Gigi, Nath, Niles and C.C.

• Would you care if I took your date, Claire? –

• He’s all yours – She waved without looking and sipping her wine.

• Did you know that Nath and Miss. Beauvais slept together? –

• Who doesn’t? She sleeps with anything that has two arms and two legs -

• Its genetic then! – He said raising his eyebrow –

• Ha-ha, very funny -

• I believe that work is out of question tonight, is it? –

• Yeah, I should never let Gigi dragged me into this, I didn’t wanted to see Daniel anyway –

• You came here for him?! –

• No, not really –

• Good –

She looked at him and smiled. They laughed, each other remembering different things, with one thing in common; both were in each other thoughts. When they finished laughing Niles took C.C’s hand and said.

• Dance with me –

• Okay Butler boy –

He took her by her hip and she put her arms around his neck and looked deeply in his eyes smiling, he smiled back. The music slowly finished and Niles looked to the band playing. Just now they had started dancing the music stopped, amusing.

She looked from the corner of her eyes at Daniel and Summer dancing so close. Gigi had said she could use the butler to put Danny jealous but it wasn’t working. She looked back at Niles and wondered if he had listened to that part of the conversation. She felt as Niles’ hands brought her near to him.

• You don’t need to focus in him now, do you? –

• Whom? –

• Please, you think I didn’t notice who were you looking at? –

• Yes –

• Wrong answer –

• Wrong question –

Slowly another song started. C.C looked at the band and listen well at the melody... it was that song... The one she thought it was made for herself and had listened in the lonely days in "The Place". She shook her head; she didn’t want to remember so horrible days.

Niles sensed her uncomfortable. Looked at her as she put her head in his shoulder and he couldn’t believe this was actually happening.

They slowly moved as the lyrics started.

Have you ever had the feeling
That the world's gone and left you behind
Have you ever had the feeling
that you're that close to losing your mind

• Believe me I have – Niles heard that C.C whispered. He felt sudden sorry for her. Or pity, but he knew she was strong, she could take it, couldn’t she?

You look around each corner
Hoping that she's there
You try to play it cool perhaps
Pretend that you don't care

• Maybe I have – Niles whispered this time. He looked at her hair and closed his eyes as they slowly moved. That song, was like... like... who cared how it was, it was just there now, and he didn’t believe in fate. C.C heard Niles’ whisper and wondered what was that suppose to mean.

But it doesn't do a bit of good
You got to seek till you find
Are you never unwind

Try to think
That love is not around
Still it's uncomfortably near

My old heart
Ain't gaining no ground
Because my angel eyes ain't here

Angel eyes
That old devil sent
They glow unbearably bright
Need I say
That my love's misspent
Misspent with angel eyes tonight

So drink up all you people
Order anything you see
Have fun you happy people
The drink and the laugh's on me

Pardon me
But I gotta run
The fact's uncomfortably clear
Gotta find
Who's now number one
And why my angel eyes ain't here
Tell me why my angel eyes ain't here
Excusez moi my angel eyes ain't here
Excuse me while I disappear

The song ended and it took C.C and Niles a while until they realized that it had. When they did C.C just got out of Niles’ embrace and without looking back she went to sit in the table.

• I thought you have come with the butler – Daniel said as C.C and Niles sat.

C.C glared at him noticing he knew Nath was a butler but totally bought the crap about Niles. Mark Roger and Andrew stared at C.C.

• Butler? I though he was an investor – Roger recalled.

C.C frowned and Niles smiled shaking his head.

• Butler? Did I say butler? I must be a little confused. Excuse me, I meant writer –

Niles looked around, so did Andrew.

• By the way, where are Nath and Gigi? –

They all look. They weren’t at the dance floor or the table. C.C and Niles shared concerned looks; both knew what they were doing.

• I think they left – C.C tried to save the night once more.
• So early, we haven’t even eaten yet – Joy spoke.
• They were probably hungry – Niles said.
• What? Why? We were going to eat now –
• Not that hunger – he mumbled this time – I don’t know then –

The night went on slowly. C.C trying to talk about business, neither of the men interested in the topic. Niles started getting jealous of Daniel that looked at C.C all the time, but tried to ignore him. The night went on slow and the guys started leaving with their partners one by one until there were just C.C, Niles, Daniel and Summer.

Danny looked at the time.

A soon as she was out of sight Daniel centred his attention back in Babcock.

Niles noticing this looked at his clock too.

They stood up and Danny did the same.

Niles made his way to the door as Daniel sign the check. He was out when he saw the limo coming.

He went back into the restaurant and saw no clue of her or Danny. He cross the entire place but saw nothing of them until he passed through the balcony and saw a blond in a blue dress; there they were!

He quietly came closer to the window and heard.

There was a long silence and Niles thought he might interrupt then but Daniel was faster. He looked at the stars, then at C.C’s face, sighed and said.

C.C looked amazed. She lost equilibrium and almost falls.

Niles was speechless, he stood there without words and with his heart pounding miles per hour, and a second heart attack came to mind. He wanted to interrupt and his body screams to take her out of there but he didn’t move and in that chilly night where the stars looked strangely bright he waited.

He came closer slowly, to let her go if she wanted but she didn’t move.

She just stood there and closed her eyes. Danny kissed her passionately, but she didn’t move. Niles jaw drop open "Caca do a nono in the balcony" he was about to say.

Then Danny stopped.

He looked back.

Danny smiled.

C.C grinned and said.

Niles chose that moment to bust in.

Danny took a last look at C.C and was about to speak when Niles glared at him.

C.C walked as fast as she could to the car and Niles followed her so relieved. Once in she sighed.

She didn’t answer and it concerned Niles. "Could it be the other one? No, no way" He sighed.

Niles turned and caught her looking to the sky too, so beautiful, the moon light made her look like and angel.

She couldn’t finish because his lips interrupted in mid-sentence. She felt his warm lips upon hers and electricity went all over her body. She felt his hands around her waist and then, when he said her name in between kissed she went mad.

She put her arms around his neck and caressed his hair loosing completely track of time. He stroked her back in little circles and the sweet taste of her mouth drove him wild. He parted her lips with his tongue and let the dance of mouths start. Nothing ever felt this good or this right. Nothing ever felt so nice. Nothing ever felt like what they were feeling now.

She gave up. Everything they have lived crossed her mind but not even that had space now, now that he fulfilled her thoughts.

He wanted her so badly, right now... right there.

They both got separated, breathing heavily. Niles looked down at her and sat removing the lipstick of his mouth. She put her hair in order and opened the door. So did him.

They quietly walked to the door. He searched for the keys in his pocket but her hands stopped him. She made him look at her and got uncomfortably near him. She looked at him and kissed his lips lightly. He closed his eyes and when he opened them again, the door was opened and no one was there.

He sighed. He certainly wasn’t fat. He looked at the sky and found no track of the moon which made him doubt everything had happened.

C.C woke up yelling from a horrible nightmare. She sighed seeing it was just that, and in relief she sat in her bed remembering what had being so awful. She closed her eyes and opened them again, ready to have a cold shower.

Niles looked at Edgar.

There was a long silence as they ended setting the table. Juliet went to the kitchen to help her husband do the breakfast, Edgar went upstairs to make Ms. Beauvais bedroom and Angelo stood there with Niles.

Niles looked at him.

C.C arrived at the dinning room as Edgar served the breakfast.

Gigi looked as C.C ate with her eyes lost in nowhere. She sipped her coffee without, even, adding sugar.

Niles came from the kitchen.

She drank it slowly, maybe too slowly for C.C Babcock. Niles looked as her lips drank the liquor and her tongue moved licking them after leaving the glass in the table. He shook his head and retired the things left.

She made her way to her room and Niles sighed with disbelief.

Niles looked behind and saw Tim standing in the door way.

Tim stood and said.

C.C sat on the edge of the pool; she took a towel and dried her blond hair. Shook her head and laid down letting the sun rays touch her skin, even when she knew she wasn’t going to get tanned.

She heard foot steps. It was Angelo.

Angelo sat next to her in a chair.

Angelo took a piece of paper form his jacket and handed it to her.

Angelo hadn’t realized the sun was this heavy until she pronounced it. He took his jacket off and opened the first buttons of his shirt. He looked at her in that red bikini. If he was straight she sure would be in problem. He smiled.

Niles peeked from the office window the whole conversation between the both of them and watches in amassment the complete scene. He saw Angelo coming so he made like he had just arrived there.

Niles saw as she opened a little white piece of paper.

She cut it in little pieces and jumped into the pool. She swims to the other edge and gets out for air. Niles just looks at her amazed of the kind of body she had. She removed the water of her eyes and turned to swim some more.

She got out of the water and walked towards the towel. She dries her hair and put the towel in the grass laying down on it.

He stood up and sat next to her getting his tie off, pulling up his sleeves and opening the first buttons of his shirt, after taking his jacket out, of course. C.C looked at him as he did so; impressed he could be so unprofessional with her.

They stayed there in silence looking at the blue sky above them. C.C suddenly remembered her nightmare; a chill went down her spine. Niles noticed it, but kept himself quiet.

He heard someone behind him, turned. Nath was there.

The door bell rang exactly at 2, C.C was nervous. Nath, followed by Tim, went to open the door.

C.C came out from the hall.

Tim came in with a tray, a martini and a glass with scotch.

C.C modulated no and moved her head in negation.

They sat in the table and C.C noticed there were three places set. She looked at Nath and Edgar in wonder but neither of them moved, then she looked to her mother that fake a smile for her. She had probably invited some potential husband to eat; maybe it made it more bearable. The door bell rang and C.C closed her eyes covering her face with her hands.

Niles runs to open the door. When he did his eyes wide open.

He made his way to the dining room.

C.C eyed Niles with concern; she then looked at Daniel who raised his eyebrow and hugged her.

Daniel sat trying to make small talk with B.B, who made like she listened carefully, smiled and then nodded. C.C was bored the whole dinner.

C.C drank wine, chewing her food. She wondered why, most of the time she did. Why? This time it seemed like fate had played a game with her, she was defenseless against it. She needed to know why, and now it wasn’t just a matter of pride, it was a mater of hate, love, business and a noise butler that kept looking at her with an air of superiority.

Just if Daniel wasn’t the most important baker for her and Maxwell’s new project she could kick him out of her life for ever, but she couldn’t, she couldn’t conquer fate.

Niles came in with a silver tray and two drinks.

He stood up, for Niles’ surprise and Babcock’s too.

Niles walked over the kitchen still thinking. So many things had happen in the last two weeks. He sighed grinning. Then Nath crossed his way… He looked at him and let him passed, he did the same with Angelo and Edgar. He was no one to follow her orders, nor in the Sheffield’s home nor there.

He reached for the back yard where he found B.B reading some papers. He thought maybe he could found out something interesting about Miss Babcock.

He cleaned his throat, making her look back.

"Just as her daughter" he thought.

Just then something pop in Niles head.

Niles looked inside and saw them all sat in a circle. The guys were all with their jackets resting in the chairs and paying attention to C.C.

C.C thought for a while.

They all looked at her in amazement.

Niles couldn’t take it anymore; he was used to always know what goes on in the Sheffield’s home, in C.C’s life. And now it was too weird. By the way, where the hell was Daniel?

He was still looking at them when he felt a hand in his shoulder. He looked back in surprise. He saw Juliet’s and Helen’s faces. She put her finger in her mouth motioning him to be quiet and then she took his hand and the three of them went to the kitchen. Greg and Tim were there.

Niles noticed this and slowly let go Helen’s hand.

Tim lighted a cigar.

Niles’ eyes opened, his mind started working thousands time faster and his heart pounded like a mouse. He wanted to hear the rest of the story but was afraid too of what he was going to find out, he had heard at least the half of the story and still nothing made much sense.

But Niles’ imagination did go farther and a thorn was mysteriously stuck in his heart.

The door opened, C.C was there standing. She looked at all of them and then at Niles.

Helen looked at her and then looked at the floor closing her eyes. Niles kissed her cheek and went out. Everyone there was amazed by that gestured; even Tim was mouth wide open. C.C’s eyes opened wider and her blue stare never understood what was happening. But she followed Niles quietly.

Angelo came near C.C and asked her quietly where Daniel was.

Edgar looked at Niles and then at C.C. Niles looked at him not trusting him a second and then he just let him spoke.

C.C looked at them, closed her eyes and let a sigh out of her lips.

Niles though he was never going to hear C.C say that words again.

The door opened again and Gigi came in.

Niles woke up and thought everything could be a dream, that he had never leave the Sheffield’s home, that he had never found Babcock there, that everything was just a bad dream.

He opened his eyes and realized it wasn’t a dream. The third week was almost done and he could barely understand what was going on in that house. Everything used to be so simple.

The phone rung and he answered.

And he head off for his shower.

He heard a knock in his door as he was putting his tie on.

The door opened and he saw her skinny body came in his room.

Niles raised an eyebrow.

Helen’s smiled started to disappear.

The door opens in a rush.

He runs behind her. She arrived to the office. She came in and Niles followed.

C.C stopped there shocked.

Niles felt out of place.

Kiky stood by C.C’s side.

Niles didn’t know what he was doing there so he intend going out, but Daniel’s hand stopped him.

Helen came in with a sigh, so did Angelo, Edgar, Greg and Nath and soon the room seemed small.

C.C took the agreement in her hands and read it. She had read a lot of contracts in her life, but nothing like this one, there was no way of getting out of it, there was no way of escaping fate. She sigh eying Ben.

Everyone did.

But Niles didn’t know what the hell he was doing there. Ben stood up and came close to C.C. He looked deep in her eyes and smile remembering better times. Daniel didn’t stand this.

"September, 4^th, 1972" C.C looked serious and so did everyone else. "By the power that comes over me, B.B Babcock, I make this agreement with the family Goldwater. If by the day 28 of September of 1999 my daughter C.C Babcock is single, and with no commitments at all, will marry their first-born child, Daniel Charles Goldwater. In case this marriage doesn’t take place, for any other reason C.C will maintain her status of single till the day she dies, and won’t be able to produce an heir for any other family, my daughter D.D Babcock runs the same luck. She will have to marry the bachelor John Stuart a month after her sister’s wedding."

"This agreement concerns too, my sister E.E. She agreed with me that her daughters to be born will run the same luck as C.C and D.D if they are in age for being married and single by this same date. The deal is closed with the families Dowell and Drake, from Ireland and their newly born children Simon and Patrick. The weeding of E.E’s daughter/s will be a month after D.D’s one, if this one proceeds."

"This agreement closed over notary and absolutely impossible to forget and/or get out of…"

And it kept going on and on over how it was impossible to ignore. Niles now understood everything. Miss Babcock and Daniel had tried things out before this day came and they hadn’t work out and now she was forced to marry him. His blood was boiling as he pressed hard Helen’s hand.

C.C closed her eyes watching so much misery.

Everyone looked at him and he saw how Greg nodded. Then that was the reason why they were so curious to know what had go on that night at the dance, and why C.C was acting so strange… but in seconds his mind got lost in their kiss again and his feet started shaking.

Edgar was furious.

Gigi was taken aback by this comment and looked at Nath that looked at her with pleading eyes.

Nath closes his eyes and got out of the room.

Niles was looking at C.C that was quiet staring at her hands, it was the first time since he had meet C.C Babcock that she looked defeated. He tried to tell her, he wanted to tell her but he needed to know what course things were heading.

Ben, Niles and Kiky looked at her in amaze. Angelo, Edgar and Greg looked at each other with worry.

Niles chuckled. And Angelo smiled as he realised how much he knew C.C.

The moments passed slowly and Ben took that time to explain C.C why he had gone.

Angelo rushed in the room with a wide smile.

The door flied open and Stuart came in with his attorney.

Kiky’s smile grew wider.

Niles was happy this all business was finally coming to an end. B.B was stunned, and then Stuart’s attorney grabbed her by her hand and guides her to break the deal. Gigi was pissed off just as B.B was and looking how joyfully everyone was she look her word.

Tim’s eyes grew wider.

C.C sighed with relief.

Soon it was only C.C, Ben, Helen and Niles oddly standing inside the office. Niles gave one last look at C.C and then stormed out closing his eyes with anger. Helen followed him.

Once out he turned around and grabbed her by her shoulders.

Niles looked skyward thinking that three weeks ago he prayed to god to take C.C out of his life and now he prayed him to get her into it.

Helen left him alone in his loneliness. He had to go and see what was going on with C.C for last time.

He opened the door slowly.

Ben was on his knee looking at C.C.

Wrong, Niles though as his eyes closed in pain.

She just nodded looking into his green forest eyes. Niles’ heart pounded miles per hour.

He waved her and Niles walked away as he came closer to the door. Ben opened it and left with a overwhelm face. This was Niles’ chance. He waited until Ben was lost in the hall and came closer to the office door that was when he heard it, sobs, sobs that came form her heart and straight to her eyes. He opened the door and she didn’t notice him there. It was the first time he saw a tier in her eyes… He silently came closer to where she was sitting and with his right hand he caressed her face. She looked up amazed.

He looked at her and with his and took the tears away. He couldn’t stand that she cried it was heart breaking. She opened her mouth to say something but he shushed her with his finger. She didn’t understand anything. Wasn’t he supposed to be with Helen? He smiled guessing her though.

She caressed his hand with her own and took his face with her other hand. The look in his eyes couldn’t fool her this time, this time there was no one to interrupt them, there was no place they should reach. She closed her eyes submitting to fate that had change so much in just matter of hours. Everything was perfect again, like it was when she was young.

Everything was peaceful and with his right hand holding her face and his left hand holding her back nothing could be wrong again anymore. Then from nowhere her nightmare came floating to her mind. A chill went up her spine; she didn’t want that to happened, not now that for first time everything could be perfect as if it had been perfect all along.

Niles watched her closing her eyes and admired the image of her like that. The bitch of Broadway surrounded by him, just a butler. But deep down he knew he was the only one worth for her, the only one that could handle her fierce and fire. Not Ben that had her when she was just a teen, not Daniel that had her the wrong way, not Mr. Sheffield that would never had her… But Him. Niles, the butler was worth of having her.

When he was young he had promised himself that nothing could take her away from him, and for many years nothing did but particular and rarely boyfriends that appeared from while to while. He was a coward back then, fearing rejection. But now with her face in his hand it was haven.

He came closer, closing his eyes and their lips met. After weeks from that brief encounter, and years from that passionate one. The perfect kiss was given then; all the problems in the world wouldn’t be much for them to not be happy. He brought her closer, crashing her body with his and enjoying every moment of that heavenly kiss.

It was just as good as all the others, she though, and she admitted herself that everything she wanted could be found in him… Him and no one else. He was her dream and soon that nightmare about rejection and death was forgotten because he demanded more from her. He demanded everything she could give.

She didn’t want him to go, she didn’t want to open her eyes and not feel his lips upon hers anymore, or his tongue exploring with hunger her mouth. She wanted this moment to last forever. And so did him.

He took her face in his hands and slowly parted the kiss.

Grace went running up stairs.

Brighton chuckled and followed his sister as Maggie took the cordless dialling for Mike. Max took Fran in his arms.

Maxwell left his coat in the closet and looked around for any sings of Niles. Nowhere! He walked to the office and opened the door quietly.

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