Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Victoria? Where on earth are my gloves, have you seen them?”

Mistoffelees’ tail was lashing back and forth as he tore through his dresser for the seventh time that evening. This was the biggest night of his life and he wasn’t about to be caught without the finishing piece of his outfit.

“Which ones?” The face of his younger twin sister appeared in the doorway, her white hair styled in flawless chin length curls, two silver earrings adorning the triangular ears atop her head. Mistoffelees felt his own black ears twitch slightly.

“You know which pair, the black velvet ones with the jewels sewn in, they match this jacket perfectly! Tori, I must find them…” To say he he was anxious would be an understatement. Mistoffelees was almost always the collected sibling, the one who was poised and quiet with nary an emotion to show besides a generally pleasant demeanor. Nevermind what he was feeling on this inside.

Tonight, however, all of those turbulent feelings were rising to the surface as he prepared to face down the ton - a concept his and his sister's relatively sheltered upbringing in the countryside had not prepared them for.

“I’ve not a clue, brother, but surely you could wear another pair?”

“No, no I need to find those ones, oh this won't do…” the black cat trailed off as he continued to rummage uselessly through the drawers. He'd left them on this dresser this morning, he was certain of it!

Noticing her brother’s tail swishing even harder, Victoria placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

“Misto,” she said gently, peering to catch his eyes. They were such a vibrant green, the same shade as the emerald on his bowtie; yet, they seemed dulled, not full of light as they usually were. “Come here,” Victoria gently guided him away from his fruitless search.

The young man let himself be led to the full length mirror in his room.

“What do you see in that mirror there?” Mistoffelees looked into the gilded glass and sighed.

There stood his sister and all of her splendor, snowy white curls and crystal blue eyes complimenting her peachy complexion, an immaculate gown of silver and pink lace, her neck adorned in pearls. Surely, the bell of any ball.

“I see a beautiful young debutante and her ridiculous brother -”

“Oh hush!” He felt his self loathing tirade die on his tongue. Victoria could be quite intimidating when it came to people saying mean things about her brother and that included Mistoffelees himself.

“Shall I tell you what I see?” she said sharply. It wasn’t a question. He knew this was the point where she would try to talk him up and buuild his confidence but Mistoffelees truly didn't want to hear it; no amount of kind words could make the churning in his stomach go away. Was this it? was he going to arrive at his first ball and be sick?

No. No, he needed to calm down...

His sister's next words brought him back to earth.

“I see the most elegant debutant and his sister, ready to take on the world together. Look at yourself Misto! No one in their right mind would ignore you tonight. You look marvelous. Even without your lucky gloves,” she winked. "Look!"

He did. Mistoffelees forced himself to stare down his reflection and really, truly, look.

Jennyanydots had outdone herself this evening, not only with Victoria but with Mistoffelees as well. His black curls were loose, falling gently around his pale face which she had dusted with the smallest amount of silver luster, highlighting his sharp cheeks and eyes. The black velvet jacket hugged his petite form perfectly, cutting an excellent silhouette with his matching trousers. Even his tail, though not as fluffy as Victoria’s, had been groomed into sleek perfection. But his favorite thing about the ensemble were the tiny gems sewn into the shoulders and arms of the jacket. They appeared black at first glance, but sparkled in every color when they caught the light. He had had this outfit made specifically to match his favorite pair of gloves.

Gloves he sadly could not find...

But Mistoffelees could admit, he did look fine this evening. The best he had ever looked in his life. Rightfully so, as this would be the night, the first night, he and Victoria were presented to London society.

As eligible to be mated.

They were officially debuting and joining the throngs of others like them on the mating market.

And Mistoffelees would be lying if the thought hadn't had him up pacing his room all night the night before.

He and Victoria were both handsome cats, he knew this. Not only that, they had excelled in all of their studies, they were excellent dancers, and Mistoffelees prided himself on being a rather good singer as well. But when they had arrived in London to stay with their uncle for their first season, they’d both felt overwhelmed. Learning the rules of society was one thing, practicing them was another entirely.

Next to his sister, the picture of ethereal beauty, he wasn’t sure he could afford to make any mistakes.

Mistoffelees wanted to find a mate. Not even his sister knew how desperately he yearned for love, love like he had seen between his mother and father. He simply feared, the closer he got to beginning the search, that he wouldn't be successful.

"Stop thinking so hard," his sister gentled him from his thoughts again. "Tonight will be splendid, you'll see! We're both nervous, but we have each other. Always."

Mistoffelees smiled at his twin.

"Of course, sister. Always."

“Mistoffelees? Victoria? Are you both ready to go?” a voice beckoned from downstairs, breaking the two from their embrace.

“Yes, Uncle! Just a moment, we seem to have misplaced Misto’s gloves,” Victoria called back.

“Oh, dear me,” Jenny could be heard from the room next door before she came bustling in. “Here they are darling, I was just mending one of the jewels,” said the ginger haired woman as she handed them to Mistoffelees with a warm smile. Victoria took them and slid them over her brother's hands with great care.

“Perfect,” she said. "Shall we?"

Mistoffelees grinned and made a show of present his arm to her like he did when they were kittens playing pretend at going to balls togetehr.

"We shall."

The rest of the household cooed over them as they descended the stairs into the grand foyer. Even their uncle made a show of adjusting his monocle and gasping at the sight of the twins.

“My, my! Won't I be lucky to be sponsoring the two most elegant cats in the room tonight! Come now, come on, we mustn’t be late!” he said, ushering them out the door and into their carriage.

“Here we go…”

Chapter Text

There were stars in the trees.

Mistoffelees found himself entranced at the sight of hundreds of little lights floating in every tree that lined the way up to the stately house of Lady Grizabella. Clearly, she had gone to great lengths hiring someone able to perform some level of magic to have decorated in such a way. Magical cats weren’t exactly common and those that possessed the skill were highly sought after. In fact, Mistoffelees had only heard of two such cats, the children of an earl if he remembered correctly, who had both been made immediate members of the queen’s inner circle. Even a cat from a low station who possessed magic could easily find themselves as entertainers to royalty or assistants to the upper class, depending on their skill, but none had been born in several years.

Truly, anyone with such skills would be considered a rare jewel.

“That woman… of course she would procure the court magicians for something as paltry as decor. My word, I certainly hope the rest of the atmosphere lives up! Particularly the refreshments…”

Both the younger cats giggled softly at their Uncle’s ever passionate love of fine cuisine.

“Now then, your mother has entrusted me with helping you through this grand ordeal, and I intend to do so! To that end,” the older man fixed them both with a look, “I must know what it is you both want.” The twinkle in their uncle’s eye reminded both Victoria and Mistoffelees so much of their late father. Though he had passed years and years ago when they were children, they still missed him everyday.

It was their father who had never failed to remind them of the importance of love. Many people found mates based on things like status, beauty, money, and skill; but love, their father had told them, was not based on any one thing in particular. No material could buy it, no special skill could create it, it could only exist and it was the greatest and most important thing to find in a mate. At least, that was what he had told them as children and that was what their mother had continued raising them to believe.

The siblings looked at each other, unsure if they should divulge this. Society cats had a tendency to scoff at love, prioritizing other things in regards to mating.

Surely, Uncle Bustopher would be more interested in finding the wealthiest partners or those with high ranking titles for them.

In the end, it was Victoria broke the silence.

“Love.”

Mistoffelees eyes widened. She had said it…

“I think i can safely speak for us both when i say, we wish to find mates who can be our best friend and… and love us as we love them.”

Mistoffelees braced himself for what kind of reaction this bold statement might provoke.

Uncle Bustopher only smiled.

“Excellent.”

~

The interior of the manor was incandescent. Lady Grizabella was known as one of the most fashionable cats in the ton, despite her age, and her tastes in decor showed it. The foyer was a sumptuous display of royal blues and golds, from the flowers and tapestries to the chandeliers and tablecloths. To Uncle Bustopher’s delight, there were tables filled with mouthwatering refreshments: chocolates, pastries, cuts of meat and cheese in every variety. Mistoffelees felt his own mouth water despite his stomach churning from nerves.

Two butlers stood by the entrance ready to collect their cloaks. As they entered, a stout cat took a card from their uncle and turned to the bustling room.

“Lord Bustopher Jones and his niece and nephew, Miss Victoria and Mister Mistoffelees,” he announced over the chatter. A number of faces turned their way and many lit up in recognition of the well known Bustopher Jones. Then, those same gazes zeroed in, scrutinizing the new faces he brought with him. Mistoffelees couldn’t help feeling a tad like prey…

This was it.

Uncle Bustopher led them into the room, greeting friends and acquaintances cheerfully as they passed on their way to the ballroom. Through two grand double French doors, was a positively gilded hall that sparkled with the light of four crystal chandeliers as well as more of the curious floating lights from outside. Laughter and chatter filled the space as guests mingled. Music floated down from a balcony above where a string sextet sat. Everything smelled of perfume and champagne. Mistoffelees had to consciously keep his face neutral as the sights and sounds flooded his mind.

“Now then let’s see,” their uncle began in hushed tones as they stood by the edge of the dance floor. Guests were already twirling about to the swells of beautiful music and Mistoffelees yearned to join in. In the face of all the potentially terrifying unknowns, dancing was something that could keep him grounded. He knew how to dance and dance well. “A good crop of newcomers this year,” their uncle continued, “over there is Pouncival, son of an earl, he’s just debuted this year and quite the dancer I’ve heard. Oh, and Electra, no title but very good family, also her first year, she’s a tad shy but very nice from what people tell.”

Mistoffelees eyes wandered over the groups of younger guests their uncle pointed to, trying to commit the names and faces to memory.

“Lord Bustopher! A pleasure to see you again,” a young man with black and gray hair and tabby striped ears approached them with a warm smile and kind golden eyes. “These must be the relatives I've been hearing about!”

“Mr. Munkustrap, a pleasure as always,” their uncle took both the other cat’s paws in a friendly shake. “Yes, yes, these are my niece, Miss Victoria,” Victoria smiled and curtseyed gracefully, “and my nephew, Mister Mistoffelees!” Mistoffelees let his body fold in an expertly executed bow. His etiquette instructor always praised how elegant he made the gesture look. “It’s their first season, very exciting business, wouldn’t you agree?” their uncle continued.

“Oh indeed, I remember mine,” Munkustrap said with a grin. “Well, I would be remiss if I didn't contribute to your enjoyment of your first ball,” Munkustrap said genially, “Miss Victoria, would you allow me to escort you to the floor for your first dance of the evening?”

Victoria’s rosy cheeks grew pinker as she looked to her uncle for permission. He gave a hearty nod and the young woman took the arm of their new acquaintance.

“Munkustrap is certainly a catch; son of a duke who happens to be the closest advisor to the queen; a fine fellow overall, respectful, protective, generous. It's his third season out, though he seems to be taking his time in selecting his partner. I suspect he might be waiting on someone in particular,” Bustoher’s eyes shot to the far corner of the room. Mistoffelees followed his uncle's gaze to a black and white haired young man with mismatched black and white ears and beautiful gray eyes. He seemed to be watching Munkustrap intently on the dance floor despite having two young ladies talking him up by the drink table. “Regardless, he’ll be a good friend to have.”

“I see,” Mistoffelees said, nodding and keeping an eye on the black and white cat who’s frown seemed to grow deeper as Munkustrap took to the floor with Victoria. Uncle Bustopher took notice.

“Mm, Alonzo is a dear but a horrible flirt sometimes. Hard to deal with those, they can’t see what’s right in front of them sometimes. And goodness knows, he’d be a fool to lose Munkustrap… Come, now, let’s see if the punch is any good, hm?”

Mistoffelees watched as his sister spun gracefully with her partner as his uncle led him to the other side of the room. His twin was certainly attracting eyes and whispers from everyone. Surely the next day town would be abuzz with talk of the beautiful white haired girl who had stolen the show at Lady Grizabella’s ball. Mistoffelees, meanwhile, couldn’t help yearning for a partner of his own next so that he could join the floor as soon as possible. He might not have had the striking looks of his sister, but he knew he could attract plenty of attention if he just got the chance to dance.

“Ah, Mungojerrie! You’re not going to try and spike that punch again are you?” Bustopher exclaimed jovially as they made their way toward the beverages. A young man, maybe a year older than Mistoffelees with calico colored hair and ears, stood before them with a girl who appeared to be his sister from their similar looks.

“Who me? Never!” the young man replied, shaking Bustopher’s hand. The sly grin on his face said that he had been very likely doing exactly what Bustopher was accusing him of.

“Mistoffelees, I'd like you to meet Mister Mungojerrie and his sister, Miss Rumpleteazer. Two of the most notorious members of the ton, to be sure,” his uncle said with a pointed look at the two. “My nephew, Mister Mistoffelees.”

The three exchanged pleasantries and Mistoffelees found himself being roped into not one, but two dances, as Rumpleteazer felt that her brother shouldn’t be allowed all the fun. Pleased by this turn of events, Mistoffelees found himself being led to the floor by the older male first just as everyone was taking positions for a waltz.

“So, notorious?” Mistoffelees questioned lightly. His partner gave him a pleasant smile in return.

“Ah, never mind that. Your uncle wouldn’t have let me near you if I weren't a gentleman. What’s a joke or two here and there, though?” Mungojerrie winked as he spun Mistoffelees in an elegant circle.

They were excellent partners for dancing; the calico was several inches taller and graceful yet strong. He had no difficulty lifting Mistoffelees or dipping him nearly to the floor and he seemed quick to pick up on his partner’s movements when they strayed from the basic form of the waltz. To that end, the young black cat found himself sinking into the movements easily and putting just the slightest embellishment into his dancing. He didn’t stray far from the baseline steps but if he added an extra twirl or two, or extended a leg or an arm in a graceful line just to show that he could… well, he was trying to make an impression was he not?

The gavotte he danced with Rumpleteazer was similarly enjoyable. The female calico was an equally talented partner and had no such qualms about showing off which Mistoffelees answered with gusto. He matched her step for step as the fast paced music pushed the dancers along the floor.

It was thrilling. He had never danced outside of his lessons with Victoria before and he liked it. Where fear had once sat in his heart before, now elation took place.

As the set ended, Mistoffelees bowed deeply to Rumpleteazer who returned it with a bright smile.

“You’re an excellent dancer! Save one for me at the next ball, will you?” she said, winking boldly before gliding off towards a group of other young women. A slender cat with sleek brown hair and pale blue eyes, a tall redhead with a fluffy tail like Victoria’s, and a shorter brown and golden haired woman with deep green eyes hold the arm of the redhead. They all eyed Mistoffelees with interest as Rumpleteazer joined them, giggling and whispering in their ears.

Indeed, as the black cat returned to his uncle, who was deep in conversation with an older ginger tabby, Mistoffelees noticed many eyes on him now.

Perhaps his impression had been a good one after all.

~

If anyone told Mistoffelees two hours ago that he would be the most sought after dance partner of the night, he would have laughed and pinched himself.

And yet, here he was on his fifth dance of the evening with the elegant brown haired friend of Rumpleteazer, Cassandra. She was quiet, a bit intimidating as she stood taller than him by an inch or two, but a graceful dancer with a calming demeanor. He was having a wonderful time dancing, but the room was growing warmer and warmer as it was filled with more moving bodies. It had become a tad stifling.

As the song came to a finish, Mistoffelees found himself approached by yet another. Pouncival, that was the name Uncle Bustopher had given earlier. Feeling a tad overwhelmbed, he gave an apologetic smile, he diverted the young man and excused himself, dodging guests left and right. He just needed a moment, a breath of fresh air.

The balcony door lay ahead, a cool night breeze wafting in.

Perfect.

Slipping outside, he let the air caress him, inhaling the sweet scent of jasmine blooming over the terrace. The expansive gardens lay below him, trees and flowers and a charming gazebo lit in the light of the half moon. A hedge maze sat beyond the beds of blooming roses, dark and shadowed.

The dark walk.

The place that could ruin anyone’s reputation if they were caught there without a chaperone.

“Feeling alright, Mister Mistoffelees?” He felt his tail twitch.

The gray tabby, Munkustrap, had come out onto the terrace to join him, leaning against the stone railing a few feet away.

They were alone.

Oh, Everlasting Cat, they were alone out here!

As if sensing his panic, Munkustrap raised both hands placatingly.

“It’s alright! We’re still in perfect view of the room, no need to worry.”

“Are you certain? Because I- I…”

“Can you see your chaperone from here?” Mistofelees glanced through the open doors and, yes, there was Uncle Bustopher sipping his drink with a rosy flush on his cheeks.

“Yes,” Mistoffelees replied, sighing a little.

“Then it's alright. And besides, I’m a man of honor. I’ll not be luring you down to the gardens anytime soon. Though something tells me you’re too smart to be tricked,” the older cat joked.

“Well, I’m glad I give such an impression,” he replied, smirking. “Can’t have everyone here thinking i’m some naive kitten from the country…”

“Oh certainly not, you and your sister have become the talk of the ball. And your uncle spoke very highly of you both before your arrival. In truth, I think everyone’s been a bit curious. I’m sure you’ll have callers galore tomorrow.” Mistoffelees felt somewhat pleased by this information, though he hoped the curiosity would fade soon so they could feel less like they were being inspected by others.

“Oh yes, I'm certain Victoria has amassed plenty of prospects,” he said drily.

Munkustrap laughed. “You as well! Surely you are out here from sore feet, you’ve been dancing so much. Everyone wants a turn with you, from what I’ve observed. You must be exhausted!”

“Ah, not quite,” Mistoffelees admitted shyly.

“Oh? Is something the matter? If anyone has acted out of line, I can see to it they are removed,” Munkustrap offered, his posture shifting to one of protectiveness.

“No! Not at all, just…” He paused. “It’s all a tad overwhelming, I suppose? Thrilling but…”

“A lot,” the older man provided. Mistoffelees found himself smiling at the understanding in Munkustrap’s golden eyes.

“I debuted two years ago at the same time as my younger brother. He was the lively one, the talk of the town, the life of every party. It was easy for him to attract anyone and everyone. For me, such things came less naturally. I, too, required many visits to the balcony at balls for a moment of peace,” he said, tipping his head in acknowledgment.

A pleasant pause rested between the two, underscored by the music from inside. The fresh air tickled Mistoffelees’ nose and the crickets sang. He could feel his energy returning.

“So, you have a brother?”

“Ah, yes. One year younger. He’s been off touring the continent this past year,” Munkustrap provided. “Are you the older sibling as well?”

“By a few minutes,” Minstoffelees teased.

“I see! Perhaps you’ll meet Coricopat and Tantomile at some point. Another set of twins in our bunch, though as the famed magicians of the ton, they tend to keep to themselves. Lots of people would like to get close to them.”

“Ah, are they the ones who made the lights for this evenin?” Mistoffelees questioned, excited by the prospect of ever meeting two magical cats.

“Indeed, they’re distant cousins of Lady Grizabella who is quite close to Her Majesty. They’re here somewhere tonight, though i suspect they’re choosing whether they want to be seen or not.” Mistoffelees felt even more intrigued by Munkustrap’s choice of words. He almost suggested that these two cats could become invisible. “They tend to prefer promenades, much less raucous.”

As if speaking the word had summoned it, a chorus of squeals and giggles erupted from the gaggle of cats by the doorway. Munkustrap turned, his golden eyes growing wide.

“Oh no, you’ve got to be joking. He’s supposed to be in France for another week!”

“Who? What is it?” Mistoffelees was growing evermore confused as Munkustrap’s demeanor shifted from shocked to annoyed. The giggles and chatterings grew louder. Munkustrap faced him with what Mistoffelees could only describe as a look of exasperation.

“My brother,” he replied in a weary voice. “Tugger.”

Chapter Text

Mistoffelees allowed Munkustrap to escort him back into the ballroom where every young lady - and frankly, every young man, too - was abuzz about the latest arrival.

“He’s even more handsome than I thought he’d be,” one girl simpered to her friends.

“I hear he’s been galavanting about the continent for a year,” one guest said with an air of jealousy, likely concerned he was about to lose his choice of partners for the evening.

“I wonder if he’ll dance with me,” a young man inquired, excitedly.

For his part, Mistoffelees simply allowed himself to observe as guests separated themselves into three categories; those who envied the man, those who admired but were too shy to approach, and those who boldly waltzed up to introduce themselves.

“Well, he never fails to make an entrance,” Munkustrap said, rolling his eyes.

“He does seem quite popular,” Mistoffelees replied as he continued to observe. “He must be a fine dancer.”

“Oh, very fine, we received excellent instruction. He’ll go through half the ballroom before the night is through, have no doubt about that," Munkustraps tone was slightly sharp, indicating he did not seem to approve of this behavior.

A rake then. Mistoffelees filed that information away in case Victoria ended up among the crowds of giggling admirers.

Still on Munkustrap’s arm as he escorted him through the crowds, Mistoffelees realized he was possibly about to be dragged into the thick of it and felt his heart rate kick up. He certainly did not want to be there among the masses of those vying for this man’s attention; the thought had his head aching a tad.

And yet, as they drew closer, Mistoffelees noticed a familiar head of white curls. Evidently, Victoria had been dragged over by another young lady with auburn colored ears and dollike brown eyes. It seemed he was going to have to brave the group after all…

“Would you like me to return you to your uncle before I greet my brother?” Munkustrap inquired politely.

“No, it seems my sister has been ensnared already so i’d like to stick close. Please, carry on, I should catch up with her.”

“In that case, I can make a formal introduction if you’d like?” the older man offered, continuing to lead them toward the doorway.

“Oh, no I doubt that will be necessary.” Munkustrap bit back a laugh.

“Glad to see i’m not the only one bothered by the antics my brother’s presence inspires. You and i shall be good friends.” Mistoffelees felt a smile creep onto his face. Being friends with Munkustrap was a pleasant notion indeed.

“Oh, Misto-ffelees,” Victoria quickly corrected herself, realizing that using a nickname in public was perhaps not proper etiquette. “Have you come to be introduced as well? Miss Jemima here says that he’s the most sought after for a dance at every ball, i should love to dance just one with him,” his sister gushed. Not an hour away from each other and Victoria had been swept into society’s flights of fancy, though he wasn’t surprised. She was always the one more likely to gossip.

“Miss Victoria,” Munkustrap said, “I can, of course make an introduction for you if you like.” His sister and her new friend, Jemima, nearly squealed from excitement.

“Oh, no don't trouble -” Mistoffelees began.

“Yes, that would be lovely if you don’t mind!” His sister’s excited interjection won out. With that, the twins found themselves both being accompanied through the crowd, guests parting to let Munkustrap through to his brother. As they walked, Mistoffelees finally allowed his gaze to settle on the man who had captivated the room.

And-

Oh.

That was why everyone had turned to look.

In front of him was likely the most beautiful man Mistoffelees had ever laid eyes on.

He was dressed in a fine black suit with an elegant fur lined collar that almost matched the honey brown color of his hair. Two golden brown ears poked out of his mess of curls which looked so beautifully tousled it had to be intentional. But what truly caught Mistoffelees were his eyes. They were warm amber like the color of the brandy his mother preferred, or his favorite topaz brooch which Victoria had given him for his sixteenth birthday. They sparkled with mirth as he smiled a devilishly handsome smile at everyone who greeted him. A long tail, even more perfectly fluffed than his sister’s, swayed lazily behind him as if to show he had no qualms about being the center of attention. In fact, he seemed to enjoy it.

“Tugger,” Munkustrap said as they now stood close enough that Mistoffelees could see he was a whole head shorter than the man.

Great…

“Munk!” The taller man greeted in a rich baritone voice before hugging his brother so hard he lifted him slightly. Not a care for decorum, it seemed. Mistoffelees bit back a laugh.

“Ah, I missed you, how have you been?” the taller cat asked, releasing Munkustrap.

“Very well-”

“And of course I missed all of you as well,” Tugger added, throwing smiles and a few winks at all who surrounded him, earning sighs from the admirers who remained near.

Mistoffelees fought the urge to gag a little.

“Yes, and i’m certain you’ll find time to dance with all in due course,” Munkustrap added a touch louder, subtly addressing the crowd to clear off. He seemed to share Mistoffelees disdain for the simpering... Taking the hint, the young men and women dispersed with coy remarks of saving a dance for Tugger later in the evening, leaving Munkustrap with only Mistoffelees and Victoria by his side.

“Tugger, I’d like to introduce two new members of our ton,” the tabby man said, gesturing to both twins. “Miss Victoria and her brother Mister Mistoffelees.” The taller man’s face brightened at the mention of new people as he gave a polite bow.

“Pleasure to meet you both,” he said as he stooped to place a charming kiss on Victoria's gloved hand. Mistoffelees feared his sister’s face was moments from exploding, the rouge on her cheeks only worsening when Tugger threw a flirtatious wink at her.

Then he faced Mistoffelees and for one heartstopping moment, the younger man realized he was about to grace his hand with a kiss as well. Yet, just as Tugger's brown gloved fingers caught under his, Mistoffelees gave one graceful step back. With a subtle "ahem", he faintly snapped his hand away, pulling it over his chest as he swept into a rather showy bow, hinging at the waist and leaving his left leg extended in a flawless line.

He kept his eyes locked on the taller man the entire time, keeping the point clear that he was not going to simper and blush demurely over this flirt.

The older man’s amber eyes widened a bit in surprise before his mouth split into a smirk.

“Very pleased to meet you, indeed, Mister Mistoffelees,” said Tugger, practically a purr, appraising Mistoffelees as if he were a new challenge.

Oh that would not do.

Mistoffelees bit back the snide remark he wanted to make, knowing full well that nothing truly untoward had occurred, that it was not his prerogative if this admittedly dashing man wanted to be a flirt, and that he should absolutely refrain from disrespecting one who was older and of higher rank. So with all the composure he could muster, Mistoffelees put on his most confident smile and replied with all the charm and decorum he had.

“The pleasure is all mine.”

~

Exhausted was not even close to the proper word to describe how Mistoffelees felt when they finally returned home. It had to be past midnight by the time their carriage rolled up to the Jones House, depositing a happily tipsy Bustopher and his cheerfully overdanced charges at the door.

“Yes, Jenny dear, could you call for some warm milk and whatever is leftover from supper to be brought up to our rooms. I think it time to retire,” he said to the ginger housekeeper who awaited them in the foyer, “but these two barely ate a bite at Lady Grizabella’s tonight. I’ll not have you going to bed hungry! Tomorrow morning is certain to be exciting.” With that their uncle kissed each of their cheeks and sent them to their rooms.

“Oh, Misto, wasn't it thrilling?” Victoria gushed as they changed, leaving their adjoining door open so they could gossip. “Dancing the night away! And there were so many handsome boys there… wouldn’t you say?”

Mistoffelees couldn't help smiling at his sister’s enthusiasm. She was right, it had been a magical evening.

“Indeed, sister, it was wonderful. You seemed to find many a handsome cat to dance with. Did any stand out in your mind?”

“Oh certainly! Mister Pouncival and Mister Tumblebrutus were both wonderful dancers and ever so funny,” she continued excitedly. “What about you? You danced with more guests than i did i think!”

“Ah, well, dancing is my strong suit. Mister Mungojerrie and his sister were excellent partners. And Miss Cassandra was also lovely. I’m not sure what to expect tomorrow, but I'd be happy to see any of them as callers come morning.”

“Do you think you will go to call on anyone?”

That was a good question. Their society was separated primarily by age, with younger cats being the ones to be courted and the older members doing the courting. However, while nearly every cat spent their first season, if not longer, in the category of being courted, Mistoffelees and Victoria had debuts delayed meaning they had the choice. To court or be courted or both. Victoria had made it clear she wished to be courted, but Mistoffelees… Well, he felt content to do the same but remained open to pursuing if he found someone he desired.

“Not at the moment, i don’t think,” he replied cooly. “But that may change at the next ball. I certainly wouldn’t mind dancing with Pouncival next time. Shame i had to turn him down tonight.”

“Ah, that’s right, you did disappear for a moment,” Victoria, now in her nightdress, entered his room just as he was finishing wiping the luster from his eyes. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder gazing into his eyes through the mirror. “Was everything alright?”

“Yes, Vic, just got a tad overwhelmed. A moment of fresh air and some pleasant conversation with Munkustrap cured it right away. Though then i walked back into that minefield with Mister Tugger’s arrival.” Upon mention of the man, his sisters eyes lit up.

“But he was ever so dashing! Misto, did i tell you he danced with me? I think you were with Miss Jemima for the quadrille, but he actually danced with me!” Mistoffelees sighed at his sister’s enthusiasm.

Based on what Munkustrap had said, he couldn’t let Victoria get involved with such a rake. He thought of Uncle Bustopher's warning about flirts, of the young Mister Alonzo staring after Munkustrap on the dancefloor and never making a move while entertaining a dozen others. He thought of his sister's romantic spirit, her childhood and youthful dreaming about a man who would have eyes for her and her alone- a reality she deserved more than anyone in Mistoffelees’ opinion. No, a flirt like Tugger would not do.

“Victoria, please promise me you are not actually considering him as an option?”

“Oh hush, Misto,” she cut him off. “I'm old enough to recognize a rake when I see one. He was simply an entertaining diversion, and he did me plenty of favors in garnering attention!”

“Vic, dear, you were doing just fine catching every eye in the room,” Mistoffelees said, setting his hairbrush down and turning to face her on his stool. Blushing, Victoria gave his shoulder a playful shove, sending them into an almost kittenish fight, the likes of which they hadn't had in years.

It was collapsed on the bed in fits of giggles that Jennyanydots found them, cooing as she brought them their late night snacks. The excitement of the evening finally started to wane as warm milk settled in their bellies and Victoria finally bade her brother goodnight.

Now alone in the quiet darkness of his room, save for a single lamp by his bedside, Mistoffelees let his body succumb to bone deep exhaustion. He borrowed deeply into the forest green silk of his bed and stared at the flickering light from his nightstand feeling his consciousness waning.

As his mind became ever more beguiled by thoughts of rest and sleep, he felt even too tired to reach his hand out and extinguish the lamp. Mistoffelees found himself wishing the thing would turn itself off so he didn't have to move.

So when the lamp flickered out in perfect sync with this thought, Mistoffelees eyes widened. Had that been a coincidence? Sure the lamp had run out of oil at the perfect time.

He checked. The oil in the base was nearly full. Of course, Jenny would have refilled it while they were out.

With all thoughts of sleep suddenly gone from his mind, Mistoffelees sat now puzzling at the offending lamp. He thought of waking Victoria but wondered if there was truly any reason.

Perhaps it had been his imagination. Perhaps he was actually asleep and dreaming!

Mistoffelees laughed incredulously and gave himself a firm pinch, wincing when it hurt.

And as he did, the lamp flicked back on.

Chapter Text

“Are you certain?”

“Quite -”

“I mean really certain because -”

“There was a flame and then there wasn't and then there was again -’

“A flicker then!”

“No, Vic -’

“Good morning you two!” Uncle Bustopher’s voice boomed cheerfully through the dining room as he entered, cutting off the hushed discussion of the twins. “I trust you rested well after such a splendid evening- my goodness, is everything alright? You look terribly flushed, Mistoffelees.”

“Y-yes Uncle, quite alright!”

Victoria gave him a smirk, barely hiding her giggle, before dutifully returning to her breakfast.

“Ah, first courting nerves,” their uncle nodded sagely sitting at the head of the table, “I recall them myself! Such excitement and yet such trepidation… but I assure you, you’ve nothing to worry about. You see, in my day, i did the courting. Had to know all the right lines, choose the correct flowers, how to flatter a young lady without stumbling - quite tricky business! But you, my dears, are being courted this time; all you must do is sit back and let them come to you,” he finished with a wink. “But you’ll not be able to entertain guests if you’re famished! Eat up!”

Mistoffelees nodded and tucked into his own breakfast. He was nervous but not at all for the reasons his uncle was suggesting - though, he supposed he was a tad anxious to see if he would receive any callers - but rather because of the previous night's events.

After staring at his bedside lamp for a laughable number of minutes, he'd found himself drifting fitfully in and out of sleep. Mistoffelees thought he must have woken at least seven times before dawn came, each time staring down the lamp which he had carefully shut off, waiting for it to do something.

Or, he supposed, waiting to do something to it himself…

But no, the object had sat there, mockingly mundane, and Mistoffelees had been left to toss and turn.

Upon first light breaking, he had immediately rung for a maid to help him prepare for the day. He'd sat through having his hair brushed and styled, desperately trying to remain calm as he thought of how to explain his recent phenomenon to Victoria. The maid had had a terrible time helping him into his clothes as his tail was lashing back and forth so violently.

Now, here he was trying to pretend nothing was out of the ordinary as he and his sister prepared for any number of strangers to come spend the morning with them.

He could only imagine what might happen if something odd did occur during a caller’s visit…

That would certainly garner them plenty of attention, he thought wryly.

As breakfast was finished, the twins and their uncle moved into the drawing room where Bustopher busied himself with the day's paper. Mistoffelees took a moment to appraise himself in the window's reflection and noted that his choice of a pale periwinkle suite matched the soft blues and grays of the drawing room. Even Victoria had seemed to color coordinate with the cool pastel palette, donning a beautiful baby blue satin gown.

Deeming his reflection suitable, he seated himself on the settee by his sister.

“We'll discuss more later, right?” she whispered.

“Of course, Vic. I'm sure there's nothing to be worried about -”

“Oh goodness no! Not a worry. It would be rather splendid, wouldn't it? If you could… you know…”

Mistoffelees paused, considering. He'd certainly become the target of the ton if his suspicions came true… would that be a good thing?

How many cats would vie for his attention out of genuine interest then? And how many would try to win him just to say they had bagged a magical cat?

These thoughts were interrupted as one of the staff entered the room announcing a caller for Miss Victoria. Mistoffelees clasped her hand and gave her a smile. They would be prepared for whatever lay in store, as long as they had each other.

~

Tugger had missed home.

As he descended the all to familiar stairs of their London townhouse, he took in the familiarity of it all. The feel of the banister he and Munk had used to slide down as kittens, always being scolded by their nurse maids. The paintings he would stare at for hours while his brother droned about their history - Tugger usually made up more interesting stories for what was happening in each scene. Even simply the way the early morning sun fell through the large windows of the foyer was something that made him smile.

He was, genuinely, happy to be back.

His second tour of the continent had been significantly longer than the first - nearly a year as compared to three months. He'd found the first time that the moment he'd left, he'd wanted to come home. But the moment he'd come home, he wished to leave again. This time, he'd determined that each time he grew homesick, he would simply chalk it up to boredom and search for a new city to explore. From Venice to Prague to Vienna to Lesbos to Paris, he'd seen and done everything a cat could. But finally, the itch he had to scratch was in London.

He had missed his father and brother. He had missed the balls and the new faces of the ton, he'd missed dancing with everyone and playing about with all the fun new people he could meet at each party. Yes, this time he would be home to stay.

Probably.

As he entered the drawing room for some breakfast, he was greeted by his father and brother both seated casually at a small table.

“Son,” his father's rich baritone voice greeted him, his eyes wrinkling in a fond smile. “How was your night? I trust you slept well after traveling so long and dancing so late?”

Earl Deuteronomy was an impressive man to say the least. He was almost always the tallest cat in the room, broad and imposing while also maintaining an air of gentle kindness. Munk had a lot of the same qualities about himself. The elder was as friendly as he was protective, truly the perfect heir to their father's position.

If only that dolt Alonzo would wake up and see the catch right before him…

“Yes, I fell right to sleep! All the excitement wore me out,” Tugger replied, serving himself some breakfast.

“You certainly danced several partners off their feet,” Munkustrap mentioned. “Even the newest addition, Miss Victoria.”

“Ah yes, the white haired girl? She was splendid. I didn't manage to get a dance with her brother, though. Shame, from what I could glimpse, he was quite good. Perhaps tonight, at Lord Asparagus’ soiree.”

Munkustrap snickered softly.

“I wouldn't count on that one. Mister Mistoffelees didn't seem too fond of your charms,” Munk teased.

The younger brother grimaced. Yes, he recalled the smaller cat's swift dodging of his greeting kiss, the way he'd practically glared him down as he uttered his pleasantries. Words which, despite their context, had felt anything but pleasant. Mister Mistoffelees had seemed almost intimidating, though his size and graceful demeanor cut the image slightly. No, Tugger hadn't felt intimidated, rather intrigued.

“Psh, we'll see about that. I'm sure I could convince him of one dance, his sister certainly enjoyed our quadrille,” Tugger stated.

“I'm sure brother.” Why did Munk sound like he didn't believe it at all…

“In any case, I'll be off to visit Bombalurina and Demeter for a bit this morning. I shall see you all later,” Tugger announced as he finished off his tea. “Will you be off to call on anyone today, Munk? Perhaps a certain someone whose name starts with Al and ends with Onzo?”

There was a deep satisfaction felt at watching his brother's face turn redder than a strawberry as he stammered something about Tugger and his impertinence. Their father simply chuckled behind his tea cup, waving his youngest son off as Tugger left the house laughing

Lady Bombalurina and Demeter had finally tied the knot and mated last season before moving into a beautiful lodging not far from the Earl's home. They had gone through a slow but earnest courtship. What with Demeter's history and Bombalurina's notoriously flirtatious nature, they had wanted to be sure of each other. But after a whole year together, both would tell you they couldn't imagine themselves with anyone else. Almost anyone could see they were a love match; a rare thing indeed.

Tugger was happy, especially for Demeter. He had known Bomba since kittenhood and seeing how fiercely she protected her friends, he knew she would be exactly the partner Demeter needed.

“Tugger! I wasn't expecting you this morning! Come in,” Bomba greeted him warmly as he was led into their drawing room. The red haired woman was glowing as always, wearing a rather lovely mauve gown that complimented her fair complexion and deep brown eyes. It was no wonder Bomba had been named her season’s incomparable; everyone was shocked that she had remained on the market as long as she did, waiting for Demeter to be ready.

“So good to see you,” he said, kissing the back of her hand kindly. “You've been redecorating?”

The room, as he had last seen it, had been a garish shade of pink (a choice of Bomba's mother). Now, it was a muted green with plenty of gold accents complimenting the dark wood furniture.

“Yes, Demi is certainly more fond of these colors. As am I, it reminds me of the countryside. Far better than that awful shade of pink.”

“Indeed,” came a new voice.

“Ah, there you are my darling,” Bomba sashayed to the door where her mate had entered, nuzzling her cheek warmly. Demeter, while shorter than Bombalurina by at least four inches, was a no less striking presence. Her navy blue dress almost made the golden highlights in her hair and hazel eyes stand out even more.

“Good morning, Tugger, we weren't expecting you,” Demeter said with a neutral yet pleasant tone. Despite how long they'd known each other - not to mention how long he had known her mate - and their history, Demeter had always maintained a sort of… distance from Tugger. She was friendly enough, but there was always some kind of hesitancy. He was certain the only reason she trusted him was because of Bomba.

Even with everything else…

“We were just discussing your impeccable taste in decor, Demeter dear,” Tugger said, flashing a charming grin.

Demeter quirked a brow at him. “Don't you start.”

“Sorry.”

“No you’re not.”

“Nope.”

All three burst out laughing.

Yes, he was glad to be home.

~

Entertaining suitors was exhausting.

On their way to London, Mistoffelees and Victoria had whispered back and forth frantically in the carriage, praying to the Everlasting Cat that they would manage to attract a suitor or two. Their father, though the younger brother of a Baron and thus a respected member of society, had chosen to raise his children at their ancestral home in the countryside. Mistoffelees couldn't help but appreciate all the peace and quiet their upbringing had afforded them, allowing him and Victoria the chance to truly focus on growing into the best versions of themselves away from societal pressure. But as the road to London grew shorter and shorter, the twins found themselves more and more worried; would society accept them? Would they be seen as strange?

And would it affect their prospects?

The answer to that question, as evidenced by their eventful morning, was a resounding no.

He had had no less than ten young men and women sing his praises (some literally, one guest had composed a small song) in regards to his stellar dancing. They raved about his grace and charming manner, eagerly waiting on his every word in response to their questions.

He was afraid his replies were terribly uninteresting, but who could blame hime when the questions were so simple?.

Did he have a favorite food? Of course, salmon. A fondness for sweets? Yes. What was his favorite? Sticky toffee pudding. And did he like flowers? No, most made him sneeze, except tulips. Could no one ask anything more... relevant to mated life? Perhaps like whether he preferred to live in town or the country. Or what his family life was like. What did he do for fun and what would he want to do together with his partner. Anything of the sort...

All his replies were quite to the point, yet this did not dissuade anyone it appeared. Victoria fared even better, managing to effortlessly charm all the callers she received with her sweet smile and angelic face.

Yes, the morning had been successful, tiring, and informative. For as Mistoffelees got to know each of his callers a tad better, he also learned something about himself that perhaps he had always known but never recognized.

Mistoffelees preferred men.

This was not a particularly shocking revelation, but simply one he’d never had the chance to realize. Mistoffelees had always noticed that Victoria would refer to her future mate as a man from the time they were kittens. He’d never understood this as they had never been particularly exposed to the romantic intentions of anyone before. How could they know what type of partner they preferred if they had never been presented with options? But somehow, Victoria had always seemed to know she wanted a man. Mistoffelees had not. He had always figured either could be pleasing but he needed to be faced with the prospect of romantic relations before realizing.

Now he had.

And now he knew.

While the attentions of one like Rumpleteazer were both entertaining and enjoyable, Mistoffelees felt far more… intrigued by her brother, Mungojerrie. Even beautiful Cassandra with her sharp eyes and graceful limbs hadn't made him feel anywhere near as interested as the strapping brunette, Tumblebrutus, who had sat slightly closer than probably appropriate and stared into his eyes with a piercing blue gaze…

Yes. Mistoffelees now felt quite certain he desired a male mate. A fact he shared quite plainly with his uncle and sister after all guests had been ushered out for the day.

“Oh! Misto, i’d no idea you had a preference,” Victoria exclaimed.

“Neither did I,” he said simply. His sister smiled in understanding.

“Well, tonight we’ll have to make that clear at Lord Asparagus’ ball! Not to worry, I'll help you turn the young ladies away politely,” Uncle Bustopher offered, nodding as if this were his most solemn duty. “And don’t you worry, there are more than enough like minded young men in the ton to choose from. We’ll have you on the floor with any number of them tonight, I'm certain. Now! Hurry, we should get to the modiste quickly for your evening wear. I’m sure Madam Jellylorum has something spectacular for you both!”

Smiling and linking arms, Mistoffelees and Victoria followed their uncle out the door, ready for another evening of fun.

Chapter Text

Lord Asparagus was not nearly as ostentatious as Lady Grizabella. Where her home and decor had been as grand and enchanting as a storybook castle, Lord Asparagus’ tastes leaned toward classic and subtle. The color palette of his manor seemed built around the natural shades of mahogany banisters and bookshelves. Everything was polished natural woods and cream color with scant accents of gold. It was light, simple, and yet elegant.

However, where the backdrop of the ballroom and foyer were neutral, the guests were anything but.

Mistoffelees had never attended a party with a dress code before, but when their invitations had arrived for this ball, they had plainly stated that color was a necessity. An odd requirement for their host, who seemed fond of plainer decor. Nevertheless, the attendees had followed directions with gusto, as Mistoffelees watched the whirling rainbow of gowns and suits on the dancefloor.

Uncle Bustopher had delighted in taking them to Madam Jellylorum for brand new outfits. The seamstress had fawned over the twins, complimenting their striking looks and how fun it would be to design for them throughout the season.

Mistoffelees understood how his sister was considered a jaw dropping beauty. From the time she was young, everyone would stop and stare at her angelic halo of white hair or her crystalline blue eyes, her porcelain doll features - Victoria looked like a princess and everyone could see it. Mistoffelees often felt like a negative image of his sister; where her hair was snowy, his was the color of charcoal. Where Victoria’s complexion was rosy and peach toned, his was paler than the moon. He supposed his features were handsome, fine boned and elegant. The shocking green of his eyes was rather striking. But the only thing he had in common with his twin, physically, was a petite stature and lithe limbs built to dance.

Regardless, he knew he was catching many gazes at this moment thanks to his evening wear. Tonight, Mistoffelees found himself in a color he would have ordinarily never chosen. At the modiste, Victoria had plucked a bolt of burgundy fabric up and all but begged him to try it out. Madam Jellylorum had quickly draped him with the soft satiny material and all had immediately gushed over how well it suited him.

His suit was deep red wine, finely threaded with iridescent silver strands. It hugged his form like a glove, the jacket cinching tightly at the middle and accentuating his trim waist. The crisp white shirt was fixed with a matching burgundy tie and Jennyanydots had brushed his cheeks with a small amount of rouge. Even his shoes for the evening had the slightest height to the heel, making him stand just a tad taller.

In truth, he felt… rather powerful as he entered the ballroom.

Perhaps he would have to try red more often.

“Ah, Mister Mistoffelees, Miss Victoria!” The familiar form of Munkustrap approached them as they circled the room. “And Lord Bustopher, so pleased to see you all again.”

“The pleasure is ours,” Bustopher replied as they bowed and exchanged greetings.

“Mister Mistoffelees, if I recall correctly, I had the pleasure of dancing with your sister at Lady Grizabella’s but did not get the chance to take you for a turn about the floor. Would you do me the honor?” Grinning, Mistoffelees gladly accepted, letting Munkustrap lead him to the floor for the next dance. Several murmurs came from the onlookers as they walked arm in arm; with Munkustrap being the son of an Earl, his choices in partner would surely be the subject of much gossip.

“Right, now, be honest,” Munkustrap began as they took their places and started the dance, “how well do you know this form?”

There was a mischievous mirth in Munkustrap’s eye and Mistoffelees felt excited by what it could mean.

“It’s a waltz,” he stated as they continued through the opening steps. “Fairly simple.”

“Excellent,” the older tabby grinned. “Let's have some fun with it shall we?” Mistoffelees felt a rush of initial excitement followed by nerves at the words.

“Oh- I wouldn’t- I don't want to seem boastful-”

“Nonsense,” his partner interrupted kindly, “this entire evening, this entire season, is for boasting. Why are we here if not to present ourselves? And why present less than the very best we can do?” Mistoffelees thought about it for a moment.

To their left he noticed a crowd of guests, a striking head of white and black standing out among them - Alonzo, Mistoffeleesrecalled the young man who seemed to stare longingly after Munkustrap.

Perhaps he could help the older cat in some way. Not to mention, he could see Mungojerrie and Tumblebrutus standing there as well; maybe he could stand to show off a tad…

Meeting his partner’s golden eyes, he smiled and nodded.

“Follow my lead,” Mistoffelees said before kicking his leg into the highest développé he could before snapping it to passé. Munkustrap spun him in a pirrouette before resuming the simple box step. On they went, playing with the steps and enjoying what new tricks they could try. Several awed breaths came from the sidelines of the dancefloor and Mistoffelees couldn't help the smile that covered his face.

It was bliss, to let go and show what he could do. With his partner’s encouragement he continued using his body to its fullest throughout the waltz. Munkustrap, for his part, was clearly an accomplished dancer himself and seemed almost just as delighted to be on the floor with someone of equal caliber.

As the dance came to a close, Mistoffelees felt as if he were walking on air, he was so happy. Bowing to Munkustrap, he heard rather enthusiastic applause from the sides of the room nearest them. Their little performance had clearly been well received.

“That ought to draw plenty of eyes.” Sure enough, Mistoffelees could see a small queue forming of young cats waiting for him to leave the floor, ready to pounce at him for the next dance.

“You might find me on the balcony again after the next three dances,” he joked, though he was sure it would actually come to pass.

“Oh, I'll be counting on it,” the tabby said laughing. “For now, though, you have some admirers to attend. Good luck!” As Mistoffelees turned to rejoin his uncle, he noticed none other than Alonzo approaching Munkustrap likely for the next dance.

Uncle Bustopher waited for him along with a gaggle of hopeful dancers. Several of said hopefuls were young women, who he and his uncle began to gently turn away, explaining that Mistoffelees was only interested in male suitors. Fortunately, no one took the news offensively or grew too upset, although some of the girls stated they weren’t even interested but simply wanted the pleasure of such an accomplished dance partner. Mistoffelees resigned to accept a few of them, purely for the fun of it, in those cases.

Yet, per his parting words to Munkustrap, after the next three dances in a row, he began to feel that familiar sense of too much. The room was just too loud, the number of voices began feeling like an irritating buzz in his ears, the music felt pitched too high, the violin beginning to make his ears twitch.

“Would you excuse me for a moment?” He said just loud enough for his uncle and some of the gathering cats near them to hear. With a short dip of his head, he hightailed it to the open balcony door.

The night was considerably warmer than last, crickets chirping into the humid air. He reached into his inner coat pocket producing a feathered white fan and swishing it over his face as he began to pace the length of the stone bannister.

Just as he was beginning to feel settled again -

“Everlasting Cat!”

A movement coming up from the shadowy steps on the side of the terrace caught his eye prompting a most unbecoming shriek.

He could only hope no one inside heard such a noise…

“Goodness! My apologies - oh, Mister Mistoffelees, was it?”

Mistoffelees hurried to smooth his tail down and fanned his face to regain his composure. Climbing up the steps from the gardens below was Tugger, looking quite pleased with himself.

Coming from the dark walk no doubt… Everlasting only knew what he got up to out there.

“Mister Tugger, forgive me,” Mistoffelees spoke as the shock receded, irritation beginning to replace it. Swiftly, the younger cat turned to go back inside and away from the other, but it seemed Tugger had other plans.

“Leaving so soon? Please, I'd hate to drive you off,” he said, smirking and winking one of those captivatingly beautiful eyes at him.

“Insufferable flirt,” Mistoffelees muttered behind his fan before shutting it rather harshly. “Not at all, I should hate to disturb you,” Mistoffelees cracked a sardonic smile. “You were clearly in the gardens for some peace and quiet, heaven forbid I disrupt that,” he said pointedly at the older man, giving a stare that said, ‘I know you weren't in those gardens for peaceful meditation, you rake.’

Tugger seemed to notice and gave a hearty laugh.

“i see how this looks,” Tugger said without an ounce of remorse. “Would it surprise you to know that I actually was in the gardens for a moment of respite?” The taller cat stepped forward, coming further into the lamplight and Mistoffelees took a moment to appreciate, again, just how good looking he was. In the golden glow of the lamps, his skin was an even warmer shade, his hair had highlights of bronze in it and his amber eyes glowed as they stared straight into Mistoffelees’. The rich royal blues suit he wore hugged every inch of his broad shoulders and long legs, which had him standing a full head above Mistoffelees- even in his heels, he thought ruefully.

His cheeks warmed, yet this time he wasn't so sure it was from the heat of the evening.

“Lord Asparagus is a long time friend of my father’s and he always had a rope swing strung in the center of the gardens. I felt like sitting on it for a moment,” he stated plainly.

“Ah,” Mistoffelees felt slightly lost for words. Tugger's response felt… childlike. A rope swing? What did a grown man care for a swing? He certainly hadn't pictured Tugger for such an innocent diversion.

Of course, this was assuming he wasn't being lied to. But something about the almost wistful look in those amber eyes said he was being honest - he had genuinely been indulging a favored childhood past time.

How interesting…

“Oh, Mister Mistoffelees- Ah, Tugger hello, I didnt know you were out here,” Munkustrap’s voice came from behind as he exited the ballroom.

“Hello brother, enjoying your evening?” Tugger greeted him jovially.

“Indeed, although I was just accosted by several guests inquiring about your whereabouts,” the older brother said with a weary smile.

“Most unfortunate! Here i was hoping to escort Mister Mistoffelees to the floor next?”

There it was. The flirtatious glint was back in his eyes, a devilishly may care smirk on his lips.

Tugger was making his first attempt to crack Mistoffelees, get him to give into his charms.

Mistoffelees was not going to break that easy.

He gave the smallest scoff, and flicked his fan back open, giving himself two solid gusts of air over his face.

“Mister Munkustrap, did you say my sister was looking for me?” Mistoffelees asked, knowing full well Munkustrap had not come out here for any such reason. He kept his eyes locked on Tugger as he transferred his fan into his right hand.

“Oh, no-”

“Ah, yes, I should find her. Do excuse me gentlemen,” he said cordially, bowing to them both with grace. Keeping his fan in his right hand, he folded it shut and drew it to his left cheek letting it rest there. He then took a long look at Tugger's face, smiling blithely as he turned and practically strutted back into the ballroom.

Munkustrap was laughing uncontrollably in the background, his younger brother grumbling at him.

“Oh Misto!” Victoria greeted as he found her by the refreshments. “You look happy! Did something happen?”

Mistoffelees noticed a disgruntled tugger entering the ballroom again, his chuckling brother at his side.

“Nothing at all, sister,” Mistoffelees said with a smile, “nothing at all…”

Chapter Text

Uncle Bustopher still had a shell shocked expression on his face when they entered the carriage to go home. Mistoffelees couldn't blame him exactly. He would probably look the same.

“Mistoffelees, my boy,” he began as the driver pulled the carriage from the drive, “are- what- did Lord Coricopat actually just…”

Victoria looked even more surprised than he felt at their Uncle’s loss for words. It was rare to see Bustopher Jones in such a state of dishevelment.

“Uncle,” Victoria began calmly, “you aren't… upset are you?”

Their uncle's face morphed from shock into sympathy. “Oh, goodness me, no, of course not,” he placated, “but it is all rather surprising. To have two such as Lord Coricopat and Lady Tantomile approach you at a ball is rare enough. To have them do so with such… news was, well…” he trailed off, likely replaying the scene in his head again. Mistoffelees could relate. He was still reliving it himself.

After returning from his entertaining reprieve on the balcony, Mistoffelees had found himself invited to dance by Pouncival. A proposition which he agreed to most happily, taking to the floor for what was a very fun country dance.

Yet, as he skipped through the steps with his energetic partner, he began to feel something more than simply elation over dancing. A tingling, buzzing sensation stirred under his skin, pleasant but foreign, and Mistoffelees had the immediate feeling that something… magical was afoot.

“Wow, I hadn't noticed before, but your coat shimmers quite beautifully, Mister Mistoffelees! What an exquisite fabric choice,” Pouncival commented cheerfully as the dance steps brought them back together again.

“Oh! Uh, thank you,” Mistoffelees replied, now glancing with thinly masked concern at his arms.

Sure enough, the silver threads in his coat were glowing slightly, almost like thin strands of light. Faint enough, that one could believe it was merely the lighting reflecting off the iridescent thread. But Mistoffelees could feel it, like the glow ebbed and pulsed with the thrum of his blood.

Mercifully, the dance had come to a close shortly after, and Mistoffelees found himself preparing to feign ill so they could take their leave quickly. He was not about to expose himself in such a public setting, no, he needed to talk to Victoria first and Uncle Bustopher - Everlasting, he needed to write his mother for goodness sake!

Fate was sadly not on his side.

“Uncle,” he found the older man with Victoria in the retiring room, likely having a breather after many rounds of dancing, “glad that I found, I-”

“Lord Bustopher,” two voices in perfect sync greeted from behind Mistoffelees. His uncle's face grew to one of surprise.

“Lord Coricopat! Lady Tantomile! I'd no idea we would have the pleasure of your company this evening, very pleased to see you both,” Bustopher greeted kindly. He stood alongside Victoria, both bowing and curtseying respectfully. Mistoffelees faced the newcomers and followed suit.

He knew from the names that these were the esteemed magical twins Munkustrap had mentioned. His gut twisted as he lifted from his bow. Before him were two nearly identical cats, tall and lean, wearing a matching black attire that seemed a genderless blend of a gown and a suit, with flowing long sleeves and billowy silken pants, the necklines and hems laid with lacework. Each had chin length black hair with scattered streaks white, matching monochromatic ears atop both heads. But it was their mesmerizing heterochromatic eyes that really took Mistoffelees’ breath. One had a blue left eye and a golden right eye, while the other had the reverse coloration.

That must be how people told the two apart, he thought meeting their calculating gazes.

His chest squeezed.

Had he done something? Surely he had, made some mistake or broken some rule, what had he done -

“Mister Mistoffelees,” the male twin greeted with a pleasant, serene voice, “we are most pleased to meet you.”

“We've been eagerly awaiting your arrival,” the female spoke next, perfectly continuing her twin’s thought.

“We are delighted to welcome another magical cat into our midst-”

“And we look forward to getting to know you better during the season-”

“Please accept our invitation to our home for dinner tomorrow evening,” the two finished in perfect unison.

Behind him, his uncle was stammering a gracious thanks alongside several queries.

What did they mean “another magical cat?”

Did Mistoffelees know anything about this?

These were the same questions he now continued sputtering through in the carriage.

“I… I didn’t… didn’t know, Uncle. Not until…”

“Until?” Bustopher prompted gently.

“Last night…” A hush fell over the carriage. Mistoffelees looked helplessly at his sister, who placed an encouraging hand on his knee.

Thus he explained the phenomenon with the lamp the previous evening and the buzzing feeling with the glowing threads on his jacket from earlier. Uncle Bustopher for his part took all the information in with nary a comment, waiting for Mistoffelees to finish.

“I had no idea… It all just happened and I've no clue what to do. Are you upset, uncle?”

“Upset?” Bustopher finally spoke, looking slightly affronted. He took in the anxious face of his nephew, whose tail was twitching wildly with nerves.

“Oh dear Mistoffelees,” the older cat said, reaching for the boy's hands and holding them firmly, “how could I be upset? No, no, rather I am nervous myself! Think of the suitors that will come flooding in when word of this gets out? I'll be beating them off with sticks!” He joked. Mistoffelees tail twitched again at that thought.

“Of course, we will meet with Lord Coricopat and Lady Tantomile tomorrow and I'm certain they will have some kind of plan to ensure you remain safe and in control through the season. Never fear,” Bustopher said, noticing his nephew's nerves.

“Speaking of,” Victoria finally piped up, “they said they'd been awaiting Mistoffelees’ arrival. What did they mean?”

“Oh yes, that's right,” Mistoffelees recalled somewhere in the haze of emotions he'd felt over meeting the twins that he'd been shocked by their insinuating they knew who he was. “Had you mentioned us to them, uncle?”

“No, not directly at least,” Bustopher said plainly, “but I wouldn't be surprised by such a thing. The two are notoriously clairvoyant,” their uncle provided as if this were common knowledge. “Why else do you think the Queen was so keen to have them on her council at a mere seven and ten years old!”

That had Mistoffelees reeling. Clairvoyant? And they had come into such power at seven and ten?!

He supposed that shouldn't be such a shock. After all, he was only eight and ten and just discovering his abilities. But still…

Would the Queen call upon him? Would he be expected to report this?

“Cease your puzzling over there Misto, i can feel you worrying from here,” Victoria said, playing bumping his shoulder. “I'm sure Lady Tantomile and Lord Coricopat will know what to do. All will be well!”

“Indeed,” Bustopher agreed, “to think, my own flesh and blood, a magical cat! How marvelous.” Bustopher smiled at the two fondly.

“Marvelous, indeed,” Victoria added, hugging her brother's side.

Mistoffelees relaxed into his sister's embrace.

All would be well, he was sure.

◇

Friday morning found Munkustrap standing out front of the house at the end of his street, a boxed pastry in his hands, with his heart racing.

Despite doing this almost every week for the last two years, he still felt nerves clench in his throat.

The familiar house was decorated with a lush garden in front, geraniums and roses in a multitude of colors. Munkustrap noticed a lack of daffodils. Sad, considering they were the favorite of one of the home's inhabitants.

The very inhabitant he was planning to visit.

The one he visited every week.

The one who had his stomach in knots.

With a firm knock to the butterfly shaped knocker, he steeled himself for another house call that would likely result in nothing but self loathing.

Again…

“Good day, Mister Munkustrap,” the butler said, recognizing him immediately.

Munkustrap felt his cheeks flush.

“Good day, I'm here to see Mister Alonzo,” he said, the only crack in his flawless composure being the burning cheeks. The butler smiled and nodded, leading him inside to the drawing room.

As always, the house was neat as a pin with its elegant green and gold decor. The drawing room was bright and sunny, all curtains open to let the light in, blessedly devoid of other callers at the moment. A woman with long black hair and white ears sat at the table sipping tea daintily. She smiled broadly at Munkustrap when he entered.

“Mister Munkustrap, here for Mister Alonzo,” the butler announced him.

“Munkustrap! How lovely to see you, is your father well?” The woman greeted kindly. Alonzo's mother, Lady Alissa, had known his father for years and thus knew Munkustrap and Tugger since kittenhood.

“Good day, Lady Alissa, you are radiant as always,” Munkustrap said, bowing to the woman. “Father is well and sends his regards. I am simply here to visit Alonzo.” At the mention of the young man's name, he turned and met the eyes of his childhood friend.

Alonzo was gorgeous as always. The blue jacket he had donned that day looked stunning on him, the morning sunlight made his silver gray eyes practically glow.

“That box had better be for me,” Alonzo said, smiling cheekily.

“Naturally,” he said, handing the little box over to his friend, taking a seat on the sofa by him.

Munkustrap felt the tightness in his chest ease slightly. It was just Alonzo. His best friend.

The cat he desperately wanted to propose to…

If only he thought he would get the answer he wanted.

Alonzo had had so many suitors, so many proposals, and he had turned everyone away. He entertained for a while, he flirted shamelessly and danced with everyone, but he never accepted any offers. Munkustrap was almost certain at that point that Alonzo did not desire marriage. He knew the cat desired to study abroad one day. Would settling ever be on his radar? Despite their longtime friendship, he had never gotten a straight answer on the subject.

Yet he kept doing this…

“My favorite! Is it from Fiore's?” Munkustrap felt himself melting over the sheer delight in those gorgeous gray eyes. All over a simple raspberry tart.

But it was more than that. This was Alonzo's favorite treat since he was young, from their favorite bakery, and Munkustrap brought him one every Friday morning to hopefully convey his affections.

When Alonzo had debuted, one year after Munkustrap, he had known he would need to do something special in order to court him. More than just simple flowers or run of the middle chocolates - which he knew Alonzo did not even like chocolate, preferring the flavor of fresh fruit. So he had aimed for something meaningful. Something he knew Alonzo loved that no other suitor would know to bring.

“Of course, it's from Fiore's,” Munkustrap said, “that's your favorite spot.”

Alonzo snapped his gaze up at Munkustrap, eyes wide and soft.

This was it.

This was the time to make his intentions known.

Just say it.

Just-

“Alonzo,” he began, voice barely steady.

“Yes?”

Everlasting Cat, his heart was in his throat.

“I was wondering…”

“Yes…?”

“Would you…” He could do this. He could say it. Just say you want to court him properly, that you want to be considered as a suitor, that you-

“Would you like to attend the gallery opening together on Tuesday?”

Well.

Fuck.

Alonzo's eyes dropped to the treat in his hands, his smile still just as soft.

“Of course, that sounds lovely,” he replied.

Munkustrap’s heart fluttered a bit. Even if it hadn't turned out how he wanted, at least he would get to spend an afternoon with the man he adored.

He only wished he could be escorting his fiancé to the gallery. Not just his friend and neighbor.

Maybe someday.

◇

An understated black carriage arrived at the door of Jones House that Friday evening and Mistoffelees knew it was meant to escort him and his family to the home of Coricopat and Tantomile.

He had dressed in a smart black suit, simple and elegant, while Victoria had gone for something slightly bolder, donning a fetching emerald green silk gown. They climbed into the carriage and Mistoffelees felt nerves buzz under his skin along with something else…

Excitement?

It was true, he was excited at the notion of getting to know these two magical cats better. There was the possibility they could help him understand his own abilities better, whatever those were. The fear was that this was still somehow all a fluke. Or perhaps that his powers weren't anything special, that there was no point in this. All he had done so far was make a lamp flickered and make his jacket shimmer a bit… These two were clairvoyant and advisor to Her Majesty!

What if they intended to bring him into their fold?!

He would surely be a disappointment, he couldn't do anything important, much less control it! Two accidental incidents did not a magician make, he was certain.

“Ah, we are here,” Uncle Bustopher said as the carriage jolted to a stop.

The house was understated yet elegant, a fragrant garden of primroses and violets stretching before the door. The exterior was not boastful and the interior seemed a cool blend of monochromatic colors with pastel accents, creating a strange kind of mysterious whimsy. They were led in and through hallways with beautiful landscape paintings, lush velvet curtains, and sleek teak wood flooring.

“Good evening,” two perfectly synced voices greeted as the butler opened the door to a sitting room. Like before, Coricopat and Tantomile were dressed in those billowy robe-like garments, only this time they were shades of cool blue.

Mistoffelees, Victoria, and Uncle Bustopher all bowed and curtseyed in greeting.

“Lord Coricopat, Lady Tantomile, what an honor it is,” Bustopher spoke to the pair who offered faint smiles.

“The honor is ours-”

“We are Pleased to have you especially, Mister Mistoffelees-”

“Thank you for accepting our invitation,” they finished in unison.

Mistoffelees blushed slightly at being welcomed so directly; he still wasn't quite sure what was happening or how this was real…

“I am most pleased at receiving your invitation, thank you truly for having me,” Mistoffelees spoke, bowing once more.

“Lord Coricopat, Lady Tantomile, honored guests,” the butler interrupted, entering the room once more,”dinner is served.”

“Excellent,” the twins spoke together again, “please follow us.”

The dining room was similarly monochromatic in decor except for an exquisite tablecloth embroidered with a thousand different colored flowers. Vases of roses sat about the room, likely from the garden outside, and a stunning crystal chandelier hung above with bronze hooks that seemed to resemble vines.

All were seated and the first course was brought out, steaming bowls of white soup, followed then by an entree of roasted salmon.

“My favorite,” Mistoffelees commented as the fish was presented before him.

“Of course,” Tantomile said from her seat at the table's head, just to his left. “We chose it for you.”

Oh right.

Psychic.

Mistoffelees felt his jaw fall open slightly.

“Tanti, I think you startled him,” Coricopat said from the other head of the table.

“Apologies, we should likely explain more.”

“Indeed.”

They two shared a look and then refocused on Mistoffelees.

“As you may or may not be aware,” Coricopat said, “Tantomile and I have psychic abilities. Hence our knowing of your arrival this season-”

“-your budding powers-”

“-and your favorite dish, of course.”

“Naturally, we were ecstatic at the prospect of another magical cat joining the ton,” Tantomile said happily. “Cori and I… well, we were somewhat outcasts even before our powers came about.”

“Having someone else who understands around offers a sense of familiarity, we suppose.”

“Many would like to be close with us due to our proximity to Her Majesty-”

“But many are clout seeking tail chasers,” Coricopat said with a roll of the eyes. Uncle Bustopher nearly choked at such frankness.

“Thus,” Tantomile continued, “we keep to ourselves. But when we saw you coming, we knew a friendship, a true friendship, was inevitable.”

“Therefore, we would like this to be the first dinner of many, if you please Mister Mistoffelees,” both cats said in unison, offering matching hopeful smiles.

Mistoffelees could not deny he was overwhelmed by it all. Not only had he had his magical powers confirmed - by two psychic cats! - he was also being offered, no, he was being told of an inevitable friendship with two of the most influential cats in the entire ton.

Him, friends with the queen's personal advisors.

In just a short week, he had gone from unknown to society to twining tails with the highest of London's ranks.

“I…” he began, hesitantly. There was no denying this would make a splash, this would be a major shift, this would be… something.

But along with that… he felt comfortable. Here in this peaceful home with these magical twins, he felt a sense of… serenity. Coricopat and Tantomile were peaceful, calm. He felt at ease in the knowledge they would keep him safe, help him understand his magic.

They would be his friends.

“I would be delighted to be your friend,” he finally said genuinely.

“How wonderful,” the twins answered, each of their tails swishing happily.

Dinner continued after that with quiet conversation. Coricopat spoke at length with Bustopher about his thoughts on the eligible members of the ton this season, curious in particular about Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer's presence.

“I was certain they would end up matched and mated last season,” Coricopat muttered to himself. “We dont see everything,” he explained to Mistoffelees, “at least not unless we specifically look for it. We can choose for the most part. Unless it is something of dire importance, visions rarely come to us. I prefer not to spy on the personal lives of others, but we always have people asking if we know who their mate will be regardless.”

“I imagine that must be tiresome,” Victoria said.

“Oh, indeed,” Tantomile said, “we've taken to telling people that matters of love are a secret to our powers. Surely if we dod tell people who their mates were, they would end up acting as fools and changing it.” The two girls laughed as if this were a particularly funny secret.

“Then the future isn't set?” Mistoffelees asked.

“Rarely,” the two said together.

Tantomile continued conversing with Victoria, asking her about how the season was going and if she was enjoying herself. Coricopat asked Mistoffelees about dance which made him endlessly happy - he was always happy to talk about dancing, the different forms and styles he preferred, his favorites to practice.

“Despite our rare attendance at balls, I would love to take a turn with you the next time we are present at one together,” Coricopat said, “do save one me?” Mistoffelees agreed readily.

Desert was served shortly, sticky toffee pudding, another Mistoffelees favorite and Tantomile sent him a knowing wink. Knowing what he knew now about their abilities, Mistoffelees knew they must have looked specifically to know what his favorite foods were. The thought filled him with warmth, knowing two near strangers had cared that much to make him comfortable.

Yes, Mistoffelees felt sure these two would become good friends and he let that happiness fill him for the rest of the night.

Chapter Text

Coricopat and Tantomile had made good one their promise of friendship and Mistoffelees found himself enjoying weekly dinners with the two either at their residence or Uncle Bustopher’s. With an agreement to keep his powers secret until Mistoffelees felt ready, they helped privately instruct him on how to better control his magic so he could avoid accidents in public.

“It's works differently for everyone,” Tantomile told him one afternoon in their uncle’s drawing room as they sipped tea. “Naturally, we only know what we ourselves have experienced since there hasn't been a magical cat since our grandparents. But from the reading I've done, it is largely based on emotions.”

“When Tanti and I are calm, we are in control and our visions can come to us easily,” Coricopat continued explaining. “But this may not be the case for you. You may not necessarily have the same abilities as us.”

And he didn't.

Where Coricopat and Tantomile's powers were focused on the mind and visions, Mistoffelees’ seemed more rooted in the physical world. As their meetings continued, Mistoffelees learned that his powers acted out of control when he was anxious. He began shocking himself during callers’ visits if he felt nervous, so he spent long evenings learning to take even breaths and keep his heart calm. Consequently, he tended to make things glow if he was excited; Victoria had yanked him out of the ballroom one night after he had finished a fun round of dancing with Mungojerrie and he managed to make her diamond necklace light up like a sparkler.

Most recently, though, he was discovering that he could make objects disappear-

“Mistoffelees, where on earth is my fan?”

It was getting them to reappear that was tricky…

“Oh, nevermind,” Victoria called back. He entered his sister's room sheepishly. This was the third time her fan had vanished after he had borrowed it.

“Did you find it, Vic?”

“Yes,” she chuckled, pulling a soot covered fan out of the fireplace in her room.

Mistoffelees took one look at the white feathered edges, covered pathetically in black ash, and couldn't help the laughter that bubbled out of him. Soon he was giggling uncontrollably with her.

“At least it's not like the cutlery!” He laughed more and Victoria had tears in her eyes from giggling so hard.

“Oh goodness, how many forks did Jenny find on the lawn last week?”

“Five!”

“Everlasting Cat,” Victoria continued laughing, so hard she even snorted in a most unladylike manner.

“Well,” Mistoffelees said, finally managing to compose himself, wiping a few tears fron his eyes, “shall we go shopping for a new one?”

“Yes,” Victoria enthused, “I was just thinking it would be nice to get out of the house today.”

With Bustopher's agreement and Jennyanydots accompanying as chaperone, Mistoffelees and Victoria found themselves browsing the market together in the midday sun. While Victoria perused one of the many stalls for her new fan, Mistoffelees found himself sidetracked, as usual, by the many sparkling trinkets on display in a nearby window.

“There we are- oh, what have you found?” Victoria sidled up to him, a new pink scalloped fan sweeping before her face.

“Just looking, nothing important,” he said, knowing Victoria understood his affinity for anything that sparkled. He was bound to become sidetracked by everything shiny.

“Well shall we peruse inside? It can't hurt,” she said, pulling Mistoffelees into the jewelry shop without a moment for protest. “Besides, I'd like to inquire about the clasp on this necklace, it's always getting stuck.”

The shopkeeper, a graying old man with fluffy brown ears twitching atop his head, greeted them warmly when they entered. As Victoria asked after her necklace, Mistoffelees began looking through the beautiful displays and had just found himself drawn in by a stunning emerald set when a familiar voice tugged at his ears.

“Good day Mister Mistoffelees,” said none other than-

“Mister Tugger!” Victoria greeted happily.

Yes, there he was, tall and grinning down at Mistoffelees with his warm amber eyes, sauntering in the shop with his brother Just behind him.

God, if he wasn't such an incurable flirt, Mistoffelees would certainly swoon over a man like him…

In the course of his now three weeks in society, he had seen quite a lot of Tugger and his brother. Munkustrap was becoming a dear friend, their small escapes from the ballroom for balcony chats becoming a pattern they enjoyed when the clamor of the evening was too much. Not to mention, Munkustrap always danced at least one with both Victoria and Mistoffelees at each ball, if only to help get under his younger brother's skin. For somehow it seemed an unspoken game had started between Tugger and Mistoffelees in which he would ask him for a dance at every ball and Mistoffelees to smirk and make up some ridiculous excuse before flitting off, leaving the other stumbling. This, apparently, served only to make Tugger work harder at trying to find him at events, which Munkustrap and Victoria found endlessly entertaining.

Of course, with his continued contact with Munkustrap and his growing connection with Coricopat and Tantomile, the rumor mill was abuzz about whether Mistoffelees was courting one of these fine cats. Such gossip was, naturally, entirely unfounded. Mistoffelees had, sadly, not completely set his sight on anyone in particular yet.

It was true, there were fine options; Mungojerrie seemed interested and Tumblebrutus had begun bringing him flowers almost every day, but he just… wasn't sure.

Whenever he sat in the drawing room, entertaining callers, he recalled the stories his mother had told him of how she and his father had met. She had spoken of sparks flying… How she had felt all fluttery inside, warmed all over and constantly desiring his company as she grew closer to him. So far, he had yet to feel that with any of his pursuers. The company was pleasant. But he was certain there was something more to be sought and whatever it was, he didn't feel it yet.

Perhaps this was why society never encouraged love matches; finding one was becoming a tad frustrating, Mistoffelees rather thought.

“How are you today, Miss Victoria?” Tugger turned his attention to Mistoffelees’ sister.

His tail twitched; for some reason he felt bothered…

“We're enjoying a lovely day,” Mistoffelees interjected on his sister's behalf, pulling Tugger's focus back to him. The twitching slowed to a gentle sway.

“I see,” the older cat said, his eyes smiling as they settled on Mistoffelees again. He ignored the soft snicker from his sister, who instead turned to engage Munkustrap in conversation, asking about some new art display opening under the sponsorship of Earl Deuteronomy.

“And how has the season been treating you so far?” Tugger asked and Mistoffelees turned back to the display of jewels, his face slightly warm.

“It has been quite pleasant so far.”

“Pleasant?” Tugger questioned and Mistoffelees could hear a smirk in his voice.

“Yes, that's what I said,” Mistoffelees huffed.

“That seems a lackluster description, if you ask me,” Tugger said airily.

“Well, perhaps present company isn't exactly inspiring more positive feelings,” he quipped, smiling slightly. This was also part of their game - Mistoffelees was never without a witty remark.

“Is that so?”

“It seems to be.”

“Hm,” Tugger hummed amusedly. “And here it seemed you wanted me to talk to you,” Tugger said, sounding far too smug.

Mistoffelees snapped his eyes back to the taller man who, he noticed, was now standing quite close to him.

Too close.

Very close…

His face felt warm again.

They stared for a beat. Two. Three. Mistoffelees wanted to sass him back but words had left his head for the moment.

“That's a beautiful set,” Tugger said, eyes still locked to Mistoffelees’, ear twitching in the direction of the emeralds on display. Suddenly the fog in his head cleared and he turned his face back to the glass case.

On a black velvet cushion sat a delicate necklace of emeralds with a matching bracelet. The stones were laid in silver metal work to resemble small flowers, with two teardrop shaped earrings to match. It was delicate yet eye catching, beautiful.

But the piece that caught his eyes the most was the ring in the center; a dainty yet detailed silver band with a circle cut emerald in the center, silver petals curled flawlessly around it.

“It is,” Mistoffelees said, his tone soft. He couldn't help it. Oh, to have a suitor propose with such a ring… that would be his dream ring…

If only he had a suitor in mind.

“Are they your favorite?”

“Hm?”

Tugger was still looking at him, his gaze seemingly never leaving Mistoffelees’ face. “Emeralds, are they your favorite?” The question felt earnest; Tugger genuinely wanted to know if Mistoffelees had a preference.

“Oh, well, yes I suppose they are,” he replied. He was somewhat surprised. This was the first conversation he had had with Tugger where the other actually seemed curious about him, his likes, his… well, self. It was a small thing but still.

“I guess I'm just partial to the color green,” he explained, “but something about an emerald green is different than any other. It reminds me of evergreen trees.” He could see Tugger was focused on him from the corner of his gaze. “The woods, I always loved forests,” he continued, hoping he wasn't about to start rambling as he often did when nervous. Which he was not, he told himself. “But it's also a cool green, like… like an ocean or- or-”

“You're eyes.”

Mistoffelees felt his eyebrows climb into his black fringe of hair, his words ceasing. Though Tugger had cut him off, it was not malicious or annoyed in the slightest. He had interrupted him gently, as though it were the most obvious statement in the world.

That Mistoffelees’ eyes were the color of emeralds.

Had Tugger just… complimented him?

“I-”

“Just an observation,” Tugger interrupted, coughing slightly. “They are a rather striking shade of green.”

His cheeks were warm. His whole face was. Was he… embarrassed? Flattered? And if so, why was Tugger the one eliciting these reactions?

As if the situation couldn't become more surreal, the emerald ring in front of him started to glow slightly in reaction to… whatever he was feeling. He wasn't going to dissect it now.

He squashed the emotional wave that was rising, imagining it like rising water and picturing it receding down into his belly and out of him. Just as Coricopat and Tantomile had taught him.

The glow ceased. He was calm.

The silence had been just slightly too long for normal conversation. He looked to Tugger who was still staring straight into his eyes- which he apparently found striking and why was Mistoffelees so fixated on that?

Tugger's gaze was sool, unbothered by the prolonged pause. What to say, how to reply? He couldn't let this silence continue! He should just thank him for the compliment but how could he do that when he was so used to sassing Tugger's attempts at flirting? Though this felt awfully different for some reason and why was that-

“Topaz.” Mistoffelees faced him unblinking, his mouth moving almost on its own, interrupting the runaway carriage that was his thought.

Tugger's own eyes grew slightly wider.

“What?”

“Your eyes,” he said, shortly, “they're the color of yellow topaz.”

Mistoffelees didn't think a cat as brazen as Tugger could be surprised by much, but it appeared he was; he hadn't thought his statement was too bold…

Deciding it was best not to wait for a response, he called to his sister.

“Victoria,” he said, turning to her and trying to ignore what he had just said and what he might have just done. “Shall we be off?”

Victoria joined him promptly, likely having overheard everything if the barely concealed smirk on her face was any indication.

“Good day, Mister Munkustrap. Mister Tugger,” he said with a short bow before sweeping out of the shop.

◇

What in the world had just transpired?

Tugger wracked his brain, standing slightly dumbfounded in the jeweler's shop with his brother barely containing his laughter next to him.

“I daresay I have never seen you look like this, brother. If I didn't know better, I'd think you had never been complimented on your eyes before,” Munk teased.

Except he was right. He didn't know it, but he was. His looks were a topic of discussion for many, and he had received plenty of praises for his physique, his hair, his height.

But not the eyes.

He supposed it was because no one ever met his gaze long enough to do so. Now that he thought about it, everyone who tried to sway him kept their eyes low and demure, so as to appear more attractive - as if that was an attractive quality to him. Anyone who bothered to really know him - which was really just Bomba, Demeter, and his brother at this point- knew he liked those who asserted themselves.

Mistoffelees did. From moment one. He was bold, bolder than most, even if he never outright pursued Tugger. He met his gaze with unwavering confidence, a challenge if there ever was one, except he didn't seem to be in the market of rewarding effort. He taunted and Tugger chased but then… nothing.

It was highly unusual.

Tugger had certainly flirted with plenty of cats who's prerogative was playing hard to get. But that was the fun of it. They always gave in the end, that was the point. That was the game.

Except Mistoffelees wasn't playing.

He was genuinely, it seemed, unaffected by anything Tugger did.

But just then, there had been a moment.

Mistoffelees had seemed flustered when Tugger had complimented his eyes.

Perhaps that was something he was unused to as well, though Tugger couldn't see why. He had not lied when he said those eyes were a striking shade, the likes of which he honestly hadn't seen before. But beyond their color, they seemed to convey… everything. Expressive, they were always expressive of the cat’s every thought, though they were utterly enigmatic.

Mistoffelees’ eyes were an open book but Tugger couldn't quite read it yet.

But oh, he was determined to learn.

Smiling to himself, he clapped his brother's shoulder and turned to the shopkeeper.

“Excuse me, sir, a moment please?”

Chapter Text

It was a beautiful evening, Victoria rather thought. Every star in the sky seemed to be glowing their brightest above the verdant gardens of Miss Cassandra's home.

The evening was being hosted by Lady Calliope, Miss Cassandra's mother, a similarly elegant brunette woman with a regal air about her. And although Victoria had felt slightly intimidated at her first meeting with the pair of women, with their piercing blue gazes and ever alert ears, she had recently found a sort of friendship with Cassandra. At the last ball, the older woman had sought her out after a particular dance partner had been a tad too insistent on a second, which Victoria had tried to avoid. While she had gently refused to no avail, Cassandra had stepped in and bluntly told the other man, a much older and graying black eared cat, that he was a poor dancer and Victoria had better partners to attend.

She'd then swept Victoria onto the floor for the next, during which they'd had a rather pleasant conversation. Despite neither of them having interest in women, they'd each agreed that they had enjoyed dancing together simply for fun and a sort of friendship had begun.

“Miss Victoria, you look positively angelic,” Cassandra greeted in her smooth alto voice. “That gown is a marvel, one of Madam Jellylorem's, yes?”

It was. Jellylorem had outdone herself in regards to the theme of the Stargazer's Ball set by Lady Calliope. Victoria's gown was pure white satin stitched with small gems and beads that practically covered the bodice like stars themselves. Even in the low-light of the garden ball spaces lanterns, she shimmered.

“It is, Miss Cassandra. As is yours I presume? It looks absolutely stunning on you,” Victoria returned the compliment as she took in the sleek sky blue gown that Cassandra had donned. It flowed over her form like water, the only detailing being the small jewels that dotted the neckline.

“Of course, she is the best seamstress in town,” said Cassandra. “I'm afraid as hostess’ daughter I'll need to remain and greet others for a while, but do find me later? Enjoy your evening.”

Victoria agreed with a swift courtesy and continued into the dance space. In truth, she had never thought of a ballroom like this. The entire central area of the garden had been turned into a dancefloor, a small gazebo at the far end housing the string quintet. Twinkling lanterns had been strung in the trees and bushes and hung from posts stationed throughout the surrounding area. Tables of refreshments and lounging benches were nestled amongst beds of red and white chrysanthemums and roses of every shade.

With Uncle Bustopher and Misto on either side, she circled the edges of the dancefloor, perusing for familiar faces and offering smiles at those she found. Pouncival, Carbucketty, and Jemima were all standing to one corner, giggling madly over something. She then noticed Rumpleteazer wander into their group with a barely concealed smirk on her face.

It was then that Victoria saw Mungojerrie on the floor with Mister Munkustrap, the pair doused in what looked like glitter.

Giggling, Victoria excused herself and sidled up to the group.

“Miss Rumpleteazer,” she greeted slyly, “I couldn't help noticing your brother and Mister Munkustrap are positively sparkling… that wouldn't have anything to do with you, would it?”

Rumpleteazer burst into giggles.

“Clever, isn't it? I took the same luster dust I use for my eyes,” she explained, batting her golden lids, “and filled a potpourri pouch with it. Then I sprung it open on Jerrie, but I sort of underestimated how much it would travel… Munk was sadly standing right next to us.”

“My goodness, you're ridiculous,” Victoria giggled, linking arms with the shorter girl.

“They said they'd theme was starlight! Mungo needed to sparkle more!”

It wasn't long before Carbucketty invited Victoria to dance the next set, which she agreed to gladly. Though she hadn't spent much time with Tumblebrutus’ brother, he seemed a playful and humorous young man. And what with the way Tumblebrutus seemed to be pursuing Misto, she figured it couldn't hurt to get to know him better.

After a dance with both Carbucketty and Pouncival, Munkustrap approached her for one. Followed closely by an older gentleman whose name she forgot ten steps in, and eventually one with Cassandra who was relieved to be done with her hosting duties.

“That last one seemed tiresome, no?” Cassandra asked her as they twirled together, remarking about the previous dance. “My own last spin was nothing of note either, some old lord that couldn't do anything but ramble about his land.” Victoria snickered.

“Well, at least it was just the land. That last for me kept making odd remarks about his estate and his number of staff. Plus something about still being spry despite his age, which I've no clue what that's about. He was an awful dancer.”

Cassandra all bust snorted.

“Oh, Everlasting… that's vile,” her friend said through giggles.

“What? How so?” Victoria felt oddly confused. It seemed as though there were some sort of… play on the words she had missed. This must be one of those things only the older cast knew. And while close in age, Cassandra had been out in society a year longer and tended to hang about the older cats like Munkustrap and Alonzo a lot.

“He wasn't referring to his dancing,” the brunette spoke with a low voice and a pointed look in her sharp blue eyes.

“I… I don't follow,” Victoria felt her face flush, embarrassed by her own naivety.

“That's perfectly alright,” Cassandra placated, their dance coming to an end. “You'll learn later. When the time comes for mating. But certainly look for someone you find more… appealing. No matter how spry those old windbags claim to be, they'll never be able to deliver properly, in the way a mate should.”

That was compelling information. The long she went in the season, the more Victoria realized her and Mistoffelees’ upbringing had sheltered them from certain knowledge. There were so many things, little things, glances and words and turns of phrase that seemed to have deeper meaning. Meaning, she had no definition for, it seemed.

Her mother had told her there were things between mates, special things, that she wasn't to know until she was a mated cat. She had accepted this. But now, here was her friend telling her that these things required certain qualities she would need to loom for! It was all rather… mind boggling.

With a quick curtsy to Cassandra, Victoria excused herself to a quiet looking crescent of benches. There were trellises fitted with a half dozen small lanterns and some sort of climbing vine crept up them emitting a sweet aroma. It was within view of the party and her chaperone so she felt no discomfort taking a seat in the small space.

She settled into a seat, leisurely fanning herself and taking in the smell of the flowers. Next to her bench was a bed of exquisite purple flowers. Perhaps lilacs, she thought. And the creeping vine smelled so sweet. She let her eyes shut and took a deep lung full of air.

“Forgive me, may I join you a moment?”

Victoria felt her eyes snapped back open as the quiet was broken by a soft, low voice.

There, blotting her view of the rest of the soiree, was a tall young man in a gray suit with dark auburn hair and eyes like moonlight.

He was the most beautiful cat she had ever seen.

Sure, Tugger was dashing, Munkustrap was strappingly handsome, and Pouncival had charming good looks, but this cat…

He was beautiful. Angelic.

Victoria closed her mouth which had started to gape slightly.

He had asked to join her.

“Oh, certainly, yes erm,” she shifted to the far left side of the bench and the stranger bowed and took the right.

“Thank you,” he said pleasantly. “I was growing rather weary and this was the least occupied bench I could see.”

“Not at all,” Victoria replied, hoping to assure him that he was not bothering her.

Their eyes met again, the stranger offering a sweet smile and Victoria felt her cheeks warm again.

The young man's face turned a similar shade of light pink and both face forward, watching the party continue.

Victoria took another long breath of the sweet flowering vine and sighed softly.

“Honeysuckle,” the stranger interrupted softly again. “It smells strongly but pleasant, yes?”

A movement caught Victoria's eye and she saw the young man was subtly wringing his hands in his lap.

Was he… nervous? Making conversation with her?

Oh goodness…

“Yes, it's wonderful,” she said, smiling kindly. She did not want this young man to be nervous. She wanted him to continue to talk to her about the plant growing behind them and maybe the other ones in the garden, and the dances and the food and, oh, she wondered if he might dance with her, that would be spectacular -

She wanted him to look at her.

How odd, she thought.

She barely knew this young man, not even a name, and yet she wanted to keep his attention. She donned gowns every evening, did her hair just so, and twirled all over the floor to garner a glance, yet never once had she craved one person's eyes on her like this.

It was a tad dizzying…

Was this what Cassandra had meant? Was this the feeling she was meant to be seeking? This kind of… desire?

“Y-yes,” the man stuttered slightly, “yes, it is. Did you know they mean devotion? Or affection depending on the almanac. Quite lovely.”

“I didn't know that! My flower arranging classes never covered anything like this,” she replied, hoping to keep this conversation going. Victoria loved gardens. She'd happily listen to him talk about plants if he wanted.

“Yes, well… Do you like flowers?”

“Very much, my mother takes great pride in our gardens back home in the country.”

“Ah, I see,” he replied, “I do love the countryside. The season is pleasant but I always find myself longing for the open air after long.”

“I can see why,” Victoria replied honestly. “I feel it myself. This is my first time in London and it is breathtaking. But I do miss the peace and quiet sometimes.”

"Then perhaps let us enjoy a moment of relative quiet together?" he offered and Victoria giggled at the slight undertone of sarcasm she detected.

"Well, as close as we can get anyway," she joked back.

Silence settled comfortably between them as yet another dance came to an end with applause from the crowd. Victoria's eyes settled on the beds of lilacs before her, their deep purple hue reminding her of early sunrises.

After a moment, she recalled learning their meaning some time ago and smiled to herself.

Lilacs… the first feelings of love.

Chapter Text

Promenades were something Mistoffelees found himself beginning to enjoy as the season continued. While dancing at balls was still his favorite activity, he was discovering that the simple pleasure of basking in nature was truly enjoyable, especially when he was recovering from yet another eventful night of dancing.

However, on this particular morning, his peaceful relaxation with his family was being… disturbed.

No one had approached him yet, the weather was pleasant, even Uncle Bustopher wasn’t particularly chatty at the moment meaning he should have been able to enjoy the peace of the birds chirping and the pond splashing as rowboats circled.

Yes it would be peaceful.

Except for the incessant giggling.

Mistoffelees glanced towards the offending high-pitched noise and saw Tugger, who was entertaining several young ladies playing some ring tossing game in the open grass.

Where Mistoffelees couldn't venture out of doors without some kind of parasol to protect his snowy complexion, Tugger stood carefree as ever with his golden skin positively glowing in the sun. Even his hair seemed more luminous in the afternoon light, turning a shimmering gold.

Oh great. Now he was staring.

The older cat tossed another ring, likely aiming to maintain his perfect streak of landing them over the posts; Mistoffelees flicked his left ear and the ring flew sideways missing by a wide margin.

Mistoffelees laughed under his breath and averted his eyes away, choosing to focus on his sister.

Until-

“Erm. Miss Victoria?” There before their little tent and chairs was a tall young man who Mistoffelees recognized vaguely from the night before. Victoria had exited the floor after a dance with Cassandra - they appeared to have forged a nice friendship - and reemerged two songs later for a dance with a handsome yet unfamiliar cat.Mistoffelees had on;y caught a glimpse of him during the waltz, busy with his own partner, but seeing him now he could admit the man was quite striking with dark auburn and red hair and large pale gray eyes. Mistoffelees scratched his brain trying to remember his name…

“Good day, er, I was wondering- I mean, I had hoped- er, would you do me the honor - that is, a-a walk? Would you accompany me- to- to promenade?”

Everlasting Cat, Mistoffelees thought he might not make it. The poor boy's face was nearly the color of his hair, and that was saying something considering he was nearly as fair as Mistoffelees himself. He wondered how he had managed to ask Victoria to dance before if it was this difficult to ask to promenade…

Victoria, though, seemed utterly charmed and turned a rosy shade of pink, fluttering her fan and sweetly nodding. The young man offered a hand to her and with a swift bow to Mistoffelees and Bustopher, he led her toward the duck pond.

“Uncle,” Mistoffelees spoke, keeping his eyes trained on the young man who had taken his sister off, “do you happen to recall that young man’s name?”

“Ah, Baron Plato,” Bustopher said immediately, likewise watching the pair.

Mistoffelees’ eyes widened slightly.

A baron? He was so shy for a man who held a title!

“I know what you’re thinking, yes, Lord Plato is certainly quiet for a man of such means,” Uncle Bustopher said, noticing Mistoffelees’ surprise. “More to his credit though, I rather think. All the lords can be quite boastful, but Lord Plato has always kept to himself. Very respectable man, an only child, came into his title quite young when his father passed.”

Mistoffelees felt a pang of sympathy at that. Their father, Bustopher’s brother, had passed when he and Victoria were only twelve.

“Well,” he said, now smiling at his sister who was giggling happily at the blushing young baron, “he seems to like Victoria and she, him… let us hope for the best.”

◇

Tugger couldn’t help being painfully aware of Mistoffelees the entire morning. Had he intentionally chosen to amuse himself with the game nearest to Lord Butsopher’s tent? Perhaps. But it was only because Munkustrap had suggested a game of pall mall and, naturally, he did not want to do that.

Yet he could not deny the added benefit of a splendid view of the younger man, who was reclined in the shade. Mistoffelees had chosen a light color today, a lilac color so pale it was almost white, which made his fair complexion look positively ethereal, emphasising the inky color of his hair. His black waves fell loosely around his face, ears twitching about atop his head with every small noise. And those eyes…

They practically glowed in the sunlight, two shining emeralds.

After missing his final ring toss (seriously, where had the wind come from?), he had bade his small group of followers farewell and sought his brother at their little encampment nearby. Munkustrap was seated with a copy of some new novel in hand, his hair shining silver in the noonday sun. Tugger liked to joke that his hair was already gray because he was always trying to take on more responsibility than necessary, but he knew it was simply his coloring. Where Munk had taken slightly more after their father in looks, with silver hair and golden yellow eyes, Tugger looked more like their late mother, honey colored hair and eyes like amber.

Or topaz, he recalled Mistoffelees telling him…

“You’re not off trying to flirt with Alonzo this morning brother?” Munkustrap’s eyes snapped up and then darted about as if the aforementioned cat would somehow materialize.

“Would you keep it down,” he hissed, “or do you intend to state my business to the whole of London?” Tugger chuckled, taking a seat with his brother.

“Munk, I’m pretty sure everyone with eyes for the last two seasons knows of your intentions,” Tugger said laughing slightly, “well, everyone except Alonzo.”

Munkustrap let out another undignified squawk.

“Oh come now, Tugger,” their father said from behind them, “You must have pity on your brother, he suffers a terrible affliction.” Earl Deutertonomy paused and winked at them both. “Lovesickness.”

Munk’s face turned beat red.

Tugger laughed.

“Be quiet!” Munk cried, almost childishly. “You were just as bad with-”

But his words went no further. As if realizing what he was about to say, Munkustrap’s mouth snapped shut, his eyes going slightly wider. Tugger felt his chest squeeze a bit.

Even now, the thought of that man made everyone cringe.

“I’m sorry, brother, i didn’t mean-”

“Never mind all that, Munk,” Tugger said stiffly, smiling to ease the tension. “That’s long past. And Everlasting knows, it wasn’t love.”

◇

“Good day, Lord Bustopher, Mister Mistoffelees,” the voice of Mungojerrie cut into Mistoffelees thoughts as he watched the other people passing by while maintaining an eye on his sister. Baron Plato, for all his shyness before, was openly laughing now with his sister as they strolled the side of the pond.

“Good day to you, Mister Mungojerrie,” he said, standing to grace the older man with a bow as his uncle simply nodded in greeting. Uncle Bustopher knew Mungojerrie was there for Mistoffelees.

“Oh, you can drop the formalities if you please,” Mungojerrie said, ginning, “we’re friends now, right?” Mistoffelees returned the grin.

“Yes, I suppose so.” There were worse things than claiming another friend, Mistoffelees figured.

“Would you do me the honor?” The calico offered an arm which Mistoffelees readily accepted with a nod of approval from his uncle.

Mungojerrie was certainly an entertaining cat, playful and ready with a joke at any moment. Not to mention, pleasing on the eyes, an excellent dancer, and generally a nice person. Mistoffelees knew that rationally he would be an excellent choice. And yet, he was relieved Mungojerrie had not made any proposals or declarations yet, as he simply was not sure he would be able to accept.

But why? Why did he feel that way? Why couldn't he envision himself mating this objectively ideal partner?

What was he looking for…

They walked, arms linked, Mungojerrie kindly holding a white parasol over them both, until they crossed a small bridge and paused to gaze at the gathering ducks and geese.

“They’re awful, those ones,” Mungojerrie said, pointing to a flock of geese.

“Oh?”

“Oh yeah, one chased me round my family’s country home, bit my hands and everything,” he said, “of course, i probably shouldn’t have tried to pluck off her feathers…”

At that, they both began laughing, Mistoffelees doubling over slightly.

Their banter continued as they roamed the park, never straying too far from the eyes of other chaperones, pausing to greet acquaintances as they meandered. Mistoffelees happily engaged in swapping stories and trading remarks, often laughing at Mungojerrie’s albeit crude humor.

It was as they were rounding the other side of the pond (keeping a wide berth from the geese for Mungojerrie's sake) that Mistoffelees felt a warm tingle down his spine.

He knew that sensation well now. The presence of a familiar magical cat.

Sure enough, not ten paces away, were Coricopat and Tantomile, looking serene as ever as they huddled under their parasols. They too were fair skinned like Mistoffelees, a fact the three had lamented together before.

“Good day Mister Mistoffelees,” they said in perfect unison as usual.

“Good day Lord Coricopat, Lady Tantomile,” he replied, stifling a chuckle as he noticed Mungojerrie's tail stiffen behind him. Clearly, he had not noticed the two and Mistoffelees was left wondering if they had simply appeared here by magic.

“Mister Mungojerrie,” Coricopat greeted, giving a graceful bow. “A pleasure to see you.”

Was Mistoffelees mistaken or… were Coricopat's cheeks pink? Perhaps it was the sun…

“Er, good day, Lord Coricopat, yes, erm, pleasure to- to see you as well.”

Oh.

OH.

Well wasn't this entertaining.

For all that Mistoffelees was worried about not feeling the proper spark with Mungojerrie, it seemed Mungojerrie's affections were otherwise employed.

Although based on their interactions thus far, even Mungojerrie didn't seem to realize he was taken with the other magical cat. This would be entertaining.

“Mister Mungojerrie,” Tantomile spoke up this time, “would Miss Rumpleteazer happen to be about today?”

“Ah, afraid not, she's home with our mother at present,” he said. Tantomile's face fell ever so slightly and Mistoffelees was nearly beside himself with the realization of what was going on.

No wonder they had asked after Mungo and Rumple at their first dinner.

This was too good.

Coricopat caught Mistoffelees knowing look and the wicked glint in his eyes, looking visibly uncomfortable for the first time since they'd met.

He was going to have a long chat with the both of them later. For now, he was content to simply watch as the two most composed cats in the ton lost their wits to lovesickness

Chapter Text

Tugger felt… bothered.

Not an unusual feeling for him. For all his easygoing smiles and laughs, everyone who knew he was contrary and his desires would shift with the changing wind. One moment all would be well, and the next he would be miffed over the brightness of sunlight - even though he had just claimed he wished to stroll outdoors.

At that moment, though, he couldn't pinpoint quite where his sudden irritation had come from.

A loud laugh came from several yards away. He didn't need to look to know it was a certain calico. A certain calico who was on the arm of a certain black haired young man…

Tugger chanced a glance.

Mistoffelees and Mungojerrie still stood next to the pond, arms linked in the respectable way two promenading usually were, alongside Lord Coricopat and Lady Tantomile. Tugger couldn't discern what they spoke of, he could only tell it was something amusing Lord Coricopat had to say because Mungojerrie's laughter was unmistakable. Yet that was not necessarily telling of an amusing tale; Mungojerrie was easy to laugh at anything, even his own jokes.

What was telling was the smile on Mistoffelees’ lips. It brightened his entire face, creasing his eyes slightly, his sleek black tail was curled over in content intrigue.

Tugger felt his own tail beginning to twitch.

What could Lord Coricopat be saying that was so amusing? He and his sister were hardly ever about!

“Rumor has it Lord Coricopat may set his cap at young Mistoffelees, wouldn't that be something? Mister Mungojerrie as well, look at them down there!”

“What?” Tugger hadn't meant to snap at his brother. His question simply… caught him off guard.

“Nothing! Just that most of the ton has observed a certain closeness between those two and Mistoffelees. And it is most unusual for the magic twins to get close to anyone…”

The more his brother spoke, the faster Tugger's tail swished.

“How in the world did he do it?” Tugger muttered half to himself.

“Come again?”

“Lord Coricopat! Or even Mungojerrie for that matter!” Tugger felt the slightest hint of exasperation enter his tone. “How do you think they got into Mister Mistoffelees’ good graces?”

It was no secret to Munkustrap that Tugger wanted to pursue some kind of friendship with Mistoffelees. He supposed he could chalk it up to continuing the chase, that earnest desire to have what he could not. Thus, Tugger asked for a dance at every ball, he sought him for conversation whenever they chanced upon each other in town - he did everything he could think of to earn attention from the most aloof cat in the ton.

However, Munkustrap knew that every word from his brother's mouth came off as a flirt.

“Brother, I imagine it has something to do with being friendly,” Munkustrap said gently.

“I'm very friendly!”

The older cat chuckled at his little brother's indignant tone.

“Yes, I know. That's the problem,” he said, “you're too friendly. It's borderline flirtatious. And Mistoffelees is navigating his first season, you know that situation is a tad overwhelming. Were he to entertain you, the most sought after cat in the ton, don't you think that wouldn't draw attention?”

“But he dances so beautifully at every ball, you're telling me he doesn't want the attention of suitors?”

“No, I'm just saying he doesn't want the attention that comes with… you. Mistoffelees doesn't want to be flirted with, he wants to be courted.”

“But I'm not flirting!”

Munkustrap quirked an eyebrow at his brother in disbelief.

“At least I'm not trying to,” Tugger amended.

“Let me ask you this, have you tried asking him about the things he genuinely likes? Or perhaps inviting him for an activity where you two can simply chat? Friendships are built on mutual interest, you should learn his.”

“Well now, that sounds an awful lot like courting behavior,” Tugger accused. Munkustrap’s eyes softened and he gave a small smile.

“The two are more similar than most would think. People flirt and peacock about at balls and promenades and ask superficial questions about land and money and how well one plays the pianoforte… but nothing of their real lives. Nothing to forge connection. They court and mate without hardly knowing each other. But love, the kind that builds a healthy bond that lasts,” Munkustrap felt his eyes drift across the green park to a familiar head of black and white hair as he finished advising his brother, “‘tis built on friendship,”

The words hung heavy in the air. Tugger's mind measured them all and they tickled at memories he wanted to ignore. Memories of a courtship that embodied every flaw Munk had mentioned and then some.

“But never mind that, I can say with confidence Mistoffelees is a lovely friend worth having. You should approach him. Away from balls and without any of your usual swagger. Be kind. No winking,” Munkustrap teased and Tugger felt a laugh bubble up, the ugly thoughts falling away.

Looking down at the group and hearing the faintest laugh bubble up from Mistoffelees, bright as a bell, he felt his resolve shift.

“Right then,” he said, setting his shoulders and strutting his way down towards the four.

“Tug, I said no swaggering!” He heard Munk call after him but he was already moving. How else was he to walk? This was just how his paces looked!

“Good day to you all,” Tugger said as he approached the side of the pond.

Four sets of eyes focused on him. Lord Coricopat and Lady Tantomile were wearing matching expressions of strangely knowing smiles. Tugger tried not to think too hard on it. Mungojerrie looked slightly put off by his presence and Mistoffelees…

He looked oddly flushed.

It was unreasonably warm that day. Tugger was sure with a complexion like his, he was doomed to feel the sun more than others.

“Good day Mister Tugger,” the twins greeted in that perfect unison of theirs.

“It’s a beautiful day is it not?”

“Oh, indeed,” Lady Tantomile replied. “Quite hot though.”

“Yes, I was thinking the very same thing,” he said, trying to keep the conversation flowing. “I must admit, I'd give anything for a breeze. That wind earlier was quite a taunt, seemed to only show up for the purpose of knocking my ring off course.”

At that moment, Mistoffelees let out a positively undignified snort, before hastily snatching his fan and covering his face.

“Are you enjoying your day, Mister Mistoffelees?” Tugger asked the young man pointedly. He had been avoiding Tugger’s gaze until that moment…

“Oh, ahem, it’s been most pleasant, yes,” Mistoffelees said, the rosy flush painting his cheeks just a tad more. Tugger really wondered why Mungojerrie hadn’t gone to get him something to drink yet - clearly, not a good escort, Tugger thought with a twist in his chest.

Perhaps…

“Mister Mistoffelees, you do appear flushed,” he pointed out gently, “could I-”

“I shall gladly fetch you a refreshment, Mister Mistoffelees,” Mungojerrie interrupted, giving a curt bow to all and departing.

Well, then.

Coricopat and Tantomile were leveling Tugger with matching expressions that he simply could not make heads or tails of. A strange silence settled and Tugger noticed that Mistoffelees’ tail had begun to twitch.

“Well,” Tugger began, addressing Mistoffelees. “Mister Mistoffelees, I was wondering…” The younger cat’s expression shifted to one of guarded annoyance and suddenly, thanks to Munkustrap, Tugger understood why. He was preparing himself for Tugger to flirt, to ask for a promenade that wouldn’t lead anywhere, solicit a dance at the next ball that would mean nothing - Mistoffelees knew Tugger now. He knew his shallow flirtations and the games he played. And he refused to play along and simper like the rest.

Mistoffelees didn't want a bit of fun, he wanted a friend or a mate.

And Tugger knew exactly which he wanted to be for him.

“There is to be a new performance of the Battle of the Pekes and the Pollicles this Friday at the theater. Munkustrap mentioned you were a fan of the ballet,” Tugger said, noting how Mistoffelees’ eyes changed from cautious to interested.

“Yes, I did hear that show would be opening soon! Victoria and I so loved the ballet when we were children. We didn’t come to town often, though, so we did not see performances much,” he divulged, looking more relaxed.

“Well, would you like to join me in our box for the show?” Mistoffelees’ face grew guarded again. “My brother and father would be there as well and Miss Victoria is invited, of course. I just assumed you might enjoy the view, Munk says our box has a superb visual of the stage.”

“What fun that would be, Mistoffelees,” Coricopat chimed in.

“Yes, a delightful evening to be sure,” Tantomile agreed.

They were now looking upon Mistoffelees with those unreadable faces. Mistoffelees cheeks seemed to pinken a tad.

‘W-well, that… I mean, if it’s not an imposition… Uncle Bustopher wouldn't mind, I suppose…”

“Oh certainly not, he and our father go way back, I’m certain they will be glad to spend the evening conversing,” Tugger said.

Mistoffelees looked directly into his eyes, those piercing green irises seeming to lance through him. Tugger suddenly felt the heat of the day getting to him as well.

“I shall look forward to Friday then,” Mistoffelees said.

Tugger’s heart leapt.