He thought that no one noticed, as he lowered his head and buried it in a book, but he should’ve known that they were watching. Not because they cared, but because he had wronged them many times before and were wary despite accepting them into their home. Still, he thought he had a valid reason to join them at that dining room table as they reviewed.
“You’re here again?” Agafonova never did forgive him for what he did. Dimitri heard them laugh every now and then about how petty the Countess was, but her best friend didn’t shy away from a grudge either.
“It’s difficult to find a place to study during final exams on campus,” Dimitri said with a professional smile.
“You have your own home to go to,” Agafonova replied with narrowed eyes. She was quiet for a moment as her eyes went up and down his body. “You’ve been here more often in the last few months....”
“You sound suspicious,” Albert said as he came out of the kitchen with some coffee and took a seat. “Guthry just needs a place to study. Besides, doesn’t he have that new baby brother? Babies are loud.”
“It’s not as if he’s stuck in a one room house,” Sonia said. Honestly, Dimitri wasn’t sure what she was doing at the manor house. She couldn’t possibly be working with animals on campus all the time. Still, it wasn’t his home, so he didn’t voice his criticism. “He has his own room.”
“Isn’t it easier to work with one’s own schedule without having to deal with the expectations at home?” JP asked. He lifted his eyes off the book he was writing on and gave his sister a raised brow. “Like someone who didn’t want to stay at home because she’d be forced to clean stables.”
“You didn’t stay home, either!” Sonia choked out.
JP ignored her. “Guthry, if you’re finding it difficult to study at home, why don’t you just call Tori and ask her if you can rent one of the spare rooms on the upper floor. There are three small rooms remaining and you can use the guest bath and eat at the dining hall.”
“It’s also convenient for travel,” Henrik said. “You don’t have to waste so much time going back and forth. It doesn’t seem like much every day, but the time adds up.”
“That’s why I rented a flat here!” Albert piped in agreement.
“I don’t want to have to burden my family further financially by renting a room when I am local,” Dimitri said. And he didn’t mind wasting time commuting. It allowed him to avoid breakfasts and miss dinner with his parents under the guise that he had to go school or was busy on campus until nightfall.
He didn’t suspect that his parents noticed anything amiss.
“Guthry, are you avoiding your family?” The table went quiet and all eyes turned to the head of the table. The Countess had stopped writing a series of foreign characters on a large mat that appeared to be some sort of energy grid.
Dimitri felt the blood drain from his face and couldn’t control his expression as the Countess suddenly called him out.
“Avoiding your family? Why?” Agafonova frowned. “Your parents are quite nice.”
The eyes that were looking at her slowly turned to look at him. His instinct was to deny it, but under the Countess’ sharp blue eyes that had cut into him so many times, he faltered. He swallowed and averted his gaze.
She seemed to take it as confirmation and she let out a low breath. “You can’t do this, Dimitri.” When she called him by his first name, it meant that she was being sincere and knew she was approaching a sensitive topic.
“I’m just very busy. Being at home is distracting.”
“Because of the baby?” Agafonova asked with clear doubt.
“When I’m studying, I’m tense and I’m worried that I’ll say something hurtful if my concentration is broken.” That wasn’t a lie. He really was afraid that he’d say something hurtful to his parents, or worse, his baby brother.
It seemed to be a valid answer as those around him nodded a bit.
“But you can’t avoid your family. They’ll notice that your time with them is increasingly smaller,” Henrik told him.
“His schedule is different now that he’s in Université.” Albert seemed to try to give him the benefit of doubt.
“But how is that different from when he was in Lycée and lived in the dorms?” Sonia asked.
“Everyone lived in the dorms in Lycée,” JP answered. “Now, he is supposed to live at home, but has spent more time here.”
“It doesn’t matter where he spends time as he is genuinely busy, but he can’t go out of his way to avoid his family,” the Countess said with a furrowed brow. Still, she raised her hand and looked back at her work. “This isn’t the place to discuss and don’t let it out. Dimitri, if you want to seek shelter here occasionally, that’s fine, but don’t hide from your family.”
Dimitri lowered his head. “Yes, Countess.”
If they figured it out, then he was sure his parents were starting to notice. He began to go home earlier, but made a point to carry in books and papers, even been seen with a book and notes at the dinner table just before they ate.
“So much work in your first year,” his mother said with some awe. She looked towards her husband. “Was it that way for you at Université when you attended?
Dimitri didn’t look up, but could feel his father’s eyes on him, and could feel the sweat on his back. “It was so long ago, I don’t remember. It may also be the area of study.”
“Is public policy more challenging?”
Before his father could answer, Dimitri smiled and spoke up. “It’s not only that, but internships and part-time positions related to my area of study are considered very important. After talking to my instructors, I was advised to start applying.”
“Already?” His mother looked taken aback.
“They must do the interview processes during the winter break,” his father said with a knowing nod. “Where are you applying to?”
“There are a few positions here in Horizon, but the one I’m putting most of my energy on is one of the Cosora Delta internships.” Once more, that was the truth. Ever since it was mentioned, he’d been eyeing it and preparing in every way he could to ready his paperwork and for a prospective interview.
“Do you need to talk to the Countess?” His mother perked up. “I can call her-”
Dimitri shook his head. “The Countess isn’t in charge of the applications and internships. She’s left that to a small committee. She just doesn’t have time.”
“Oh, that’s right.” His mother sighed, tired. “She’s leaving for Varsha soon.”
“Dimitri,” his father said, looking right at him. “A position at the delta is probably better than any position in Horizon, as the delta plans to train up and coming students for future leadership positions within the community. You won’t be able to get such a chance here.”
Dimitri nodded. “I understand, Father.”
“Give it all your effort.”
“Yes!” His mother beamed. “Put all your effort into it.” She rocked the baby in her arms. “Your brother will definitely have someone to look up to in the future.”
Dimitri’s smile faltered a bit. “Yes, Mother.”
♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡
“You got the position?” His mother’s face lit up as she clapped her hands and beamed. “I knew you would get it!”
“Yes, in particular, I was hoping to be accepted into the planning and logistics division.” Dimitri couldn't stop himself from smiling. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d been so happy that he couldn’t stop smiling. “This particular position works with settling new residents in the planned towns along the East Corridor.”
That was the major road that cut through Cosora’s territory on the east side of the river. It went from the main entrance into the territory that led off the main road that would go to Fekete and down all the way to Viclya. The west side of the river had the West Corridor, which started at the entrance from Fekete territory and went all the way down to the west shore of Viclya, into the industrial and artisan districts.
Most villages were planned along the East Corridor for the time being and the project was rather big. He’d heard Agafonova and Albert talking about it on occasion. His last call with the Countess, who had just arrived in Varsha for her study abroad, had emphasized the importance of the project, as they would soon open the delta to new residents and they expected a flood of new people coming from all over the empire.
“Is it a lot of work?” His mother asked.
Dimitri smiled, excited about what he’d have to do. “Yes, but it is necessary. I’ll be based in Viclya, but will do a lot of commuting up and down the corridor with the staff. Some nights, I’ll be required to stay in the work camps on site, but at the very least transport is provided. The Cosora Delta has a fleet of vehicles for county work. I’ll have a fixed schedule of work until the end of the summer.”
“That’s good! This is so exciting. I’m so happy for you, Dimitri. I know you worked so hard to get this position,” his mother said with a warm smile.
At the head of the table, his father gave him an approving nod. “This internship is important. The Countess clearly puts a lot of weight on the growth of her county. The Chamber is watching it carefully, so you must not be lax and focus on your work.”
Dimitri’s smile faltered a bit. He knew that. Why couldn’t his father say something more encouraging? “I know, Father. The Countess and I spoke regarding what she expects of me.”
“She’s done much for this family,” his father continued before lowering his head and continuing to eat dinner. “Do not let her down.”
Dimitri also found his gaze lowering as some disappointment tugged at him. “I won’t.” The table grew quiet with only the subdued sound of utensils against the plates. It wasn’t until Viktor was carried out by the old maid that it grew lively again.
Or rather, his parents grew lively upon the sight of his little brother. Viktor had gotten a bit chubby, with rosy plump cheeks and plump arms and legs that his mother couldn’t seem to help but squeeze. Dimitri felt the corners of his lips tugging up a bit.
Viktor was a cute baby.
“Dimitri, when will you be reporting to the delta?” his father asked. His stern voice drew Dimitri out of his thoughts and he turned towards the older man.
He sat up straight as he answered. “I will be leaving with Agafonova and Skuldsen after our last day at Université.”
His mother looked up from where she was holding Viktor on her lap. Her brows furrowed and she frowned a bit. “Immediately afterwards? Will you be coming home first?”
“No, Skuldsen said they were leaving in the afternoon, so it would be best to drop off my things at the manor house and leave from there.” His father also seemed to frown.
“You’ve already arranged this?”
“It was something we discussed as it’s a day-long carriage ride to Viclya and it made the most sense to go with them. They will bring me directly to the people in charge of the internship,” Dimitri said. That wasn’t a lie. Henrik had been the one to suggest it, as he knew that Dimitri didn’t have his own carriage and there was plenty of room on SIG One and Two.
“Then, before you leave, we should have another dinner to see you off!” His mother said with an energetic look. She looked towards her husband with some expectation, but Dimitri shook his head.
“That’s around the final exams, Mother. I don’t have time,” he said with a helpless look. “Perhaps some other time.”
His mother’s shoulders fell, obviously disappointed. His father frowned more so. “You cannot spare time for a dinner with your family?”
“It’s not that I can’t spare time, it is only that I am far busier than I expected. Aside from my classes and studying, I also have to attend some orientation meetings in Viclya-”
“Orientation meetings? How often?” His mother asked.
There was only one, but Dimitri hadn’t felt too comfortable at home, so he raised the number. “At least one each month.” He needed to make sure Agafonova and the Countess knew this so they wouldn’t accidentally reveal him.
His mother pouted. She brought her baby closer to her. “Viktor, your brother is so busy....what shall we do? He hasn’t been home often....” she said, as if talking to the child, but it was clearly addressed to Dimitri.
He chuckled a bit. “I’m sorry, Mother, but maybe there will be time for a family dinner after my internship.”
“Your internship lasts throughout the summer,” his father said as his eyes narrowed. “Are you saying that you won’t have time to see your family until autumn?”
That was exactly what Dimitri was hoping for, but he dared not confirm it out loud. He shrugged helplessly once more. “What can I do, Father?”
He didn’t know why his father appeared upset. Wasn’t he the one constantly reminding Dimitri about the application and getting recommendations? If anyone wanted him to get this internship more than him, it was his father. Now that he got it, his father was upset?
“That’s all right,” his mother’s gentle voice seemed to negate his father’s irritation. She looked at her son thoughtfully. “This is very important to Dimitri. We will make time some other time.”
Dimitri smiled. “Thank you, Mother.” He silently apologized and made a point to linger at the dinner table longer than normal, as if to give his family more attention and ignore any suspicion that they had that he was trying to avoid them.
His mother smiled and nodded, then continued to gently bounce Viktor on her lap. “Don’t worry, Viktor. We will see your big brother more often!”
♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡・・・・・・♡
“Mother?” Dimitri’s eyes widened as he jerked his head back. “What are you doing here?” He lowered the sandwich he was eating for lunch as he looked up and saw his parents and Viktor in a Lions Gate branded baby stroller just a few paces from him.
“Well, you’ve been so busy working all summer and couldn’t come home, so we decided to come here!” His mother’s smile was bright and he felt his stomach twist. It wasn’t that he couldn’t come home. He had weekends off. It was just that he didn’t want to.
But, he didn’t expect that his parents would come to him.
“Are you free to come visit?” He blabbered, trying to push back his disbelief. “Father, what about the Chamber?”
“The Chamber is on break.”
Was it that time already? Dimitri inwardly groaned. He should’ve known his mother would do something like this.
“What’s wrong?” His father knit his brows together and looked at him.
“Nothing, I’m just so busy.” Dimitri lost all interest in his meal and lowered his hands, placing the sandwich back on the table.
“On a weekend?” his mother asked, confused. “Dimitri, are they overworking you?”
“No, no, it’s just that there is so much to do. You know that the delta is a young territory, so things are always being worked on,” he replied. “Even on weekends, my mind is preoccupied.”
“You’ll have time for a few meals with us, won’t you?” his mother asked with hope on her face. She bent down and lifted the fat arm of the baby in the stroller. “Viktor almost doesn’t know what you look like anymore.”
She said it in a playful tone, but Dimitri wanted to say that a baby couldn’t remember much to begin with. He eyed the little person sitting in a stroller in a new white and green striped shirt, bonnet, and chubby arms and legs. Black hair peeked out from beneath his bonnet and big, green eyes looked at Dimitri in wonder.
“This is your brother, Viktor. You remember him, don’t you?” his father said in a gentle voice as he bent down and cupped the back of the baby’s head. “That’s Dimitri. Di-mi-tri. Can you say it?”
The child gurgled out some syllables that didn’t sound remotely like ‘Dimitri’. The young man in question drew his head back and made a slight face. The baby extended his arms and reached for him with pale fingers that were like little sausages.
His mother laughed. “Look! He wants you to hug him! He must miss you!”
He couldn’t bring himself to look at his brother. He turned his head away and suddenly pushed his chair back. “I just remembered that there is some paperwork I need to complete for Commissioner Ingram.”
“Right now?” His mother looked up with disbelief. “Can’t it wait?”
“I’m afraid not,” Dimitri said as he stood up. “I have to go!” His meal was abandoned as he made a beeline to the exit, ignoring his mother and father calling out to him.
As he darted around the corner he ran his hand through his hair and then tugged at the collar of his shirt. What was he doing? Why was he running away from his family? Was it because he didn’t expect them?
Why are they here? Dimitri grit his teeth. He was hot all over and couldn’t be near them. What if they found him? He didn’t know what came over him.
He fled the scene.
He didn’t know how long he wandered, but he walked down the Promenade, past the main plaza, the resorts, the beaches, and finally found himself sitting on a rock jetty relatively secluded from the main walkway that was a trail around the entire coastline of the bay.
He lowered his head and covered his face with his hands. When did he become like this?
Dimitri didn’t hear the shuffling behind him. He didn’t know he wasn’t alone until he saw someone from the corner of his eye unpacking a small wooden case. If it was anyone else, he would’ve just been a bit embarrassed to be seen almost crying into his arms, but the newcomer was Robert de Guevera.
The boy who had lost part of his leg in the incident.
Dimitri knew that he was there. The Gueveras visited the Countess’ territory in the summer to play, but he hadn’t run into them. Still, he could never forget that boy’s face.
For a moment, Dimitri couldn’t breathe. He didn’t know if he should go or if he should consider how awkward it was. Did the boy know who he was?
“You’re Guthry, aren’t you? The one who was held back a year because of a nearly failed project and negligence.”
The boy was no older than twelve, but almost sounded as if he were mocking him. Dimitri wasn’t angry. He wasn’t wrong, after all.
“You know who I am?”
“Gueveras have long memories when it comes to who hurt them.”
Dimitri shifted once more. His eyes darted back to the embankment and the walkway above, feeling as if he were in danger. He glanced back at Robert. The boy didn’t seem to have any weapons, just a board with paper, a small tin of water, and what looked to be watercolors.
“You’re painting?”
“I have many interests.” That even sounded like something the Countess would say. “You’re crying?”
“No-”
“Your eyes are red.”
Dimitri took a deep breath and began to stand up. “I should go and let you concentrate on your painting.”
“Running away again, huh?” Those words made him pause at once. Dimitri looked back at the boy who seemed engrossed in preparing his paper.
“What are you talking about?”
“You ran away at the restaurant. I saw you.”
“Why would I run away-”
“You don’t understand, do you? Or is it that you don’t want to?” Robert said as he sat on the rock, quietly dipping his paintbrush into the small tray of colors before making small strokes on the piece of paper on his lap. “Your brother is not the cause. He is just an unknowing reminder of your own trauma and you refuse to acknowledge it, making it difficult for you to move on.”
Dimitri drew his head back and looked at the child, unable to contain his surprise. The boy wasn’t even old enough to go to Lycée, but he spoke with such maturity. There was only one way that Dimitri could understand why. “You sound as if you’ve been through this.”
“Fifi and I were abandoned. You see and experience things growing up in an orphanage that would test your prospective on family ties,” Robert replied. “I’m not ashamed to talk about it. Daddy says it is good for me to talk it out, especially with him, so we can discuss how to handle any complex emotions.”
Dimitri furrowed his brows. “Then, what did you talk about with your father?”
Robert paused. He lowered his brush and looked up, out at the water. “A lot of people want to adopt babies and small children, but only one. When there are siblings, the chances of adoption are much smaller. If it weren't for Fifi, I would’ve been adopted by myself. I saw a lot of children being split up from their brothers and sisters so they could go to a good home.”
“And you refused?” Dimitri settled down on the rock next to the child.
“Fifi was all I had, but there were some nights when I was mad. If it weren’t for Fifi, perhaps I’d already have a family, but I didn’t - couldn’t leave her or let us be separated. I didn’t hate her. I hated the situation. I hated the events that led us to being left on the steps of the abbey,” Robert replied. He lifted his head and looked up at Dimitri. “I love Fifi. And you love Viktor. You can’t help what you feel, but you don’t hate him. You hate the situation and the events that led you to it and feel as you do.”
Dimitri saw the intensity in the boy’s eyes. He felt as if Robert’s brown orbs were boring into his soul. He couldn’t help but turn his head away.
“Robert...I never did apologize to you for my part in the collapse at the orphanage,” he said in a low voice. He lowered his eyes. “I’m sorry. I was negligent and in a rush. As a result, you lost your leg.”
Robert turned back to his painting. “All your apologies will never bring my leg back.”
Dimitri shrunk back as the guilt cut through him. He shut his eyes. “I know. But I can never apologize enough for hurting you and the other children.”
“If you really feel guilty, then continue to spend your life trying to do good to try to make up for it. Even if I don’t forgive you, which I won’t,” Robert added with a brief glance. “At the very least, something beneficial will happen for others rather than you wasting your life wallowing in self-pity and making everyone who cares for you sad.”
The corner of Dimitri’s lip curled up as he let out a small bitter laugh. “That won’t change the fact that I can’t be in the same room as my brother.”
“Didn’t you listen to what Robi said?” A high pitched, irritated voice came from behind him and he looked over his shoulder.
Fiona de Guevera had her little arms out and stood akimbo at the top of rocks against the cove. Her little face was damp with some sweat and she was frowning.
“Fifi, be careful on your way down,” Robert said as he turned around. “Do you need help?”
Stolen story; please report.
“I’m a big girl!” The child was what? Six? “I can come down myself!” Their nanny was standing a few paces away, watching carefully as Fiona turned around and held on to the large, rough stones as she wiggled down, making sure not to scratch her chicken-shaped purse. She placed her feet firmly on a rock before releasing her arms and adjusting herself so she was steady.
In a way, it was impressive to see the little girl climb down. She was obviously used to doing so. Still, he was wary and was ready to rush out and catch her if she slipped. Fiona reached her brother, who scooted to the side so she could sit next to him.
“You are Miss Fiona de Guevera, yes?” Dimitri asked. He’d met her before, but it was a casual introduction. “I am-”
“Guthry,” Fiona said. She narrowed her eyes and he could’ve sworn she looked at him the way Agafonova looked at him. With suspicion. “I know who you are.”
Did the child hate him? Did pettiness run in the Guevera family? “Oh...I see....”
Fiona wrinkled her nose. “You should listen to my brother. Robi’s very smart. Much smarter than me, and Daddy and Grandma and everyone say I’m very smart. Like a genius.”
Her brother continued to paint and commented in a dull voice. “No one says that.”
“You weren’t there!” Fiona insisted. She looked at Dimitri. “You need to talk to your mommy and daddy. When I’m upset, I talk to Daddy. When I’m upset with Daddy, I talk to Uncle Sebby...but his advice is bad, so I’ll call Auntie Tori or Uncle Piers.”
Dimitri crinkled his eyes. Was this child bragging that she called the Crown Prince for life advice? He shook his head. He was listening to advice from children. He glanced down at them. But they’d been through more than he had.
“What should I talk to them about?”
“How you feel you don’t live up to their expectations and that you feel as if you have let them down and have shamed them. You should tell them how Viktor reminds you that you’re not worthy of being their son and that any distance you had with them was because you felt unworthy and pathetic.”
“I never said those words-”
“You are unworthy and pathetic,” Fiona said, stressing the adjectives. Dimitri stared at her and couldn’t help but glare a bit. Was she doing this on purpose? She seemed to spend a lot of time with Agafonova and the others, so he wouldn’t put it past her.
“Do you have a grudge against me, Miss Guevera?”
“Yes. Your incompetence hurt my brother!” Fiona narrowed her eyes and scooted closer to her brother as she glared at Dimitri. “I can forgive, but never forget.”
“You don’t sound like you forgive.”
“I said I can, not that I have.”
This child really was a Guevera. Dimitri took a deep breath and looked out towards the water. “In your wise experience, what do you think my parents will say?”
“Probably think you’re an idiot for thinking like you do,” Robert told him.
His sister nodded in agreement. ”And they’ll be disappointed and sad because they’ll feel like they failed you, even if it was all your fault.” These children were harsh, but Dimitri did not hate it.
He took a deep breath. “I know I should speak to my parents about it. I just don’t know how to start.”
“Aren’t your parents here now?” Fiona asked, giving him a confused look. “You should talk to them.” She began to fiddle with her chicken-shaped purse.
“I’m not sure how to start-”
“Call Miriam Guthry.”
Dimitri nearly whipped his head back to the little girl, his eyes wide as his mouth dropped. “How do you have my mother’s comcry registered?”
Fiona shrugged. “She thinks I’m cute.”
“You are very cute,” Robert told her as he painted the sunset. Fiona returned a toothy grin, pleased with her brother’s words.
“Hello? Miss Fifi?”
“Hello, Madam!” Fiona said. “I am here with your oldest son and he would like to talk to you and your husband about his repressed emotional trauma.”
“Excuse me?”
“Mother, I can explain!” Dimitri nearly lunged at the child. Where did Fiona even hear those words? “Don’t pay any attention to her, I’ll come by in a moment. Don’t listen to her-”
Fiona let out a choked, affronted gasp and quickly ended the call. She shot Dimitri a glare. “You are so useless! Can’t you see I’m trying to help.”
Dimitri returned her glare. “I don’t need a child to help me.”
“Then why are you getting life advice from us?” Fiona said with a sneer. The corner of Dimitri’s eye twitched. These two children....
“Your mother is expecting you,” a man’s voice said behind them. Dimitri turned around and shuddered as he saw Lord Kasen de Guevera looming over them. For a moment, Dimitri feared that he knew that Dimitri was thinking ill of his children. “You should go now.”
Dimitri swallowed hard. “Yes, Lord Kasen!”
The taller man stood in place with his arms crossed over his chest and easily balanced on the jetty rocks, his sharp eyes fixed on Dimitri as Dimitri climbed up to the walkway above them. He could still feel Lord Kasen’s gaze burning into his back as he headed towards the resort tents.
He thought the children got their attitude from being with the Countess and Agafonova for so long, but it turned out, they picked it up from their father.
They were going to be terrifying as adults, he was sure of it.
His walking slowed as he came around the grove of trees and saw the neatly lined resort tents. There was music playing from the deck in the distance as a live band performed for the guests eating dinner as the sunset. The atmosphere was lively and Dimitri spotted his parents sitting at a table on the deck, watching the performance as Viktor sat on a specially designed highchair for babies.
Dimitri took a deep breath. He approached his family and it was his father who noticed him first. He raised a brow.
“Why did Countess Guevera’s niece suddenly call your mother?”
Because she’s crazy. “She overheard something.”
His father’s gaze became serious. The older man glanced at his mother, who nodded. Dimitri’s father stood up, pushing his chair back. “Let’s talk.”
This was it.
Dimitri took another deep breath and exhaled. “All right.” His father led him back towards the resort tents, where they had a villa-style tent. There were few of those and as long as they gave enough time before their reservation, they were given a villa for the price of a regular tent.
In the summer, this meant that his family had planned to come to Viclya for some time. Dimitri shifted uncomfortably. Did they want to vacation or did they want to see him?
He entered the tent behind his father and the light crystals immediately illuminated the main room. His father turned to face him and Dimitri lowered his head, trying to figure out where to start.
“Are you angry at us?”
Dimitri’s head snapped up. “What? No.”
“When we arrived, you didn’t seem happy to see us.”
Dimitri opened his mouth, but no words came out. He wasn’t happy to see them, but he wasn’t going to say it. He shook his head. “I was surprised. I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Why wouldn’t you? We haven’t seen you for over a month and you left directly from Université to come here.” His mother spoke up behind him and he turned around. His mother bounced Viktor on her hip twice before placing him on a cushioned mat with a patch of a cute lion with wings, then closed the sides of the playpen enclosing it.
“Mother, as I said that was the most convenient-”
“You hardly call. If I didn’t call you the next day, would we even know if you arrived safely.”
“Of course, I arrived safely. This is Viclya-”
“Dimitri,” his father said in a low voice. “What is going on?”
He took a deep breath. “Don’t pay attention to what that strange little girl said.”
“How can we not pay attention? If the child noticed it, did you think that we wouldn’t?” His mother knitted her brows and frowned. “You’ve been avoiding us, haven’t you? I thought at first it was because of school or that your brother’s crying was distracting you, but you’ve been a ghost at home.”
“You weren’t like this when Université started,” his father deduced with narrowed eyes. He paused and frowned. “Is it because of your brother?”
Dimitri felt a cut through his heart. He knew it wasn’t his brother’s fault, but he couldn’t control the displacement and envy. When he didn’t answer, he heard his mother choke back a cry. He darted to lift his eyes and saw her eyes redden and glisten with tears.
“No...no....” She didn’t seem to know how to take it.
“Dimitri....” His father looked both stunned and sad. “Is it your brother? Do you hate your brother?”
“No!”
“Dimitri, I’ve heard that older children tend to feel jealous when they have a new sibling, but you’re an adult,” his mother said with some frustration. “You can’t be like this. Your brother doesn’t know any better.”
Dimitri took a deep breath. “I know that-”
“How can you hate your brother?” His father seemed to grow angry at the thought. “You’re too old to be jealous of an infant. What are you think-”
“I never said I hated him!” His voice filled the tent, cutting off his father without mercy. He grit his teeth. “I’m just frustrated because he has a promising future and when I look at him, I remember that I’m ruined!” Dimitri threw his arms into the air and his parents looked at him. The frustration and anger on their faces melted into pity. Dimitri couldn't meet their eyes. “I know what I did and I know what it cost the family. I ruined Father’s career. I got us ostracized from Horizon’s aristocracy. I was the one who caused all that and no matter what I do, I can never make up for it!”
“Dimitri....” His mother stretched out her hand, but he stepped back.
“Every time I was home, I would see you looking at Viktor, knowing he was so full of potential. Knowing that he hadn’t ruined everything like I had.” He raised his hands and grasped his hair on either side of his head. “I couldn’t help being angry and resentful. I knew this was my fault, but I couldn’t stand to see it, so before I said something or did something that would hurt him or you, I thought it best that I stay away.”
His father’s face reddened. “Did you think we don’t want you?”
“Dimitri! When have we ever said that?” His mother almost choked back a cry. “You are our son, just as much as Viktor, and we love you!”
“There were times where you disappointed us. Worried us, hurt us, but never once did we think it was better that you were not around,” his father told him, fists clenched at his side. “Why didn’t you tell us you felt such discomfort? You needn’t go through this alone. Your mother and I will always be here to support you. If we can’t do it, then we will get additional help.”
“I didn’t realize I felt so strongly like this. Not until Viktor was born.” He looked towards where he thought his brother would be, inside the playpen designed to keep the crawling little ball of chub from wandering too far. Dimitri’s brows furrowed and he frowned. The playpen was in the shape of an octagon, but the part that was supposed to latch closed was unlatched and there was a space between the sides. His heart dropped. “Where’s Viktor?”
His parents looked towards the playpen and their faces paled. “Viktor?” His father whirled around and looked towards the corners of the tent.
“Viktor! Viktor!?” His mother’s voice grew higher and higher each time she said his brother’s name. She circled the desk to one side and Dimitri turned around. He didn’t see his little brother in his diapers and green and white striped baby clothes and bonnet anywhere.
His eyes went towards the tent flap and his blood froze. “Oh no....” He darted towards the entrance and threw open the heavy tent flap. He turned from left to right, looking down the wooden walkway that went between pale resort tents.
He caught sight of a green and white lump crawling away. Before he could let out a breath of relief, he heard the boisterous yelling of what sounded like a group of men. He could smell the alcohol in the air before it registered that they were drunk. A half dozen men were swaying and stumbling as they turned the corner.
They were carrying imported balsa wood boards that were popular to use at one of the west beaches to ‘ride waves’. They weren’t as dense or heavy as regular wood, but they were still essentially wooden planks.
And those drunken fools weren’t paying attention to anything but themselves, pushing and shoving each other as they laughed. They could barely see their own feet; what more the baby right in front of them?
Dimitri rushed forward, his heart slamming against his chest as he realized that he wouldn't be able to grab Viktor and pull him away before those men reached him.
He saw someone’s foot trip on the wooden boardwalk. Someone was flung forward and the wooden board flew from his hands.
“Viktor!”
Dimitri didn’t hear any other voices. He didn’t even realize he called his brother’s name. At that moment, everything went silent and he dove down into the walkway, desperate to shield the baby. His arms enclosed around the child, pulling him against his chest and curling his body around him as his shoulder hit the ground.
Dimitri grit his teeth, but still forced his body to turn his back to the board so it wouldn’t hit Viktor. Viktor was so small and innocent. Dimitri had looked forward to his birth, reminding his mother to go to her prenatal checkups and monitoring her foods to ensure that both she and his brother would be safe.
For a moment, all that flashed through his mind was chubby cheeks with tousled black hair and green eyes that mirrored his looking up at him, shining and almost awestruck. Little fat fists had reached for him with no regrets, no judgment, and Dimitri felt sour that he hadn’t taken them. He wanted to hold his brother’s hand and reassure him that he had an older brother who loved him.
Because he did love him.
“Dimitri! Viktor!” He heard his mother’s voice above him and the sounds around him flooded in.
“Take them directly to holding. Guests are not allowed to bring equipment into the area as they could damage them and injure others. And where are the guards? Drunks are to be escorted to their rooms!” A stern, angry woman’s voice filled the air and gave clear orders.
Several men were yelling and then cried out in pain. Dimitri opened his eyes. Two imposing men had easily subdued the six men, and a half dozen patrol guards were rushing from all directions to seize the drunks.
“Sir Abern will escort the guards, my lady,” one of the knights said. Sir? That meant they were imperial knights, didn’t it? Did they stop the man and the boards from falling on them?
Dimitri sat up, still hugging his brother against him. The baby didn’t seem to notice anything wrong, but rather, was hugging Dimitri and drooling on to his shirt without a care. Dimitri looked to the side and saw the discarded balsa wood boards. He suddenly felt his brother being plucked out his arms.
“Hello, Viktor. I haven’t seen you since you were a little red ball.” The Countess smirked a bit as she rested the child on her hip and leaned over, kissing his chubby baby cheek. “Look how big you’ve gotten!”
Viktor gurgled happily and grabbed on to the Countess’ long, dark curls, showing no sign of discomfort being carried by her. Dimitri remained stunned for another moment, before slowly pushing himself up.
“Countess Guevera!” His father gasped and his mother flushed.
“My lady!”
“Mr. Guthry, Madam Guthry, I apologize for the chaos. We have plenty of personnel around the tents, but in areas like this, it seems that people are more daring,” the Countess said as she gave them a small, apologetic bow. “I’m sorry you had to go through that. Someone could’ve gotten hurt. I should’ve known that as a resort, there was a possibility of drunkards getting out of hand.”
Viktor let out a series of nonsensical babbling and then puffed out his cheeks. Dimitri didn’t know if this was his way of agreeing.
“That’s not your fault, my lady,” his father said. “Although, you came just in time.”
“It wasn’t me who prevented your baby from being trampled,” the Countess said. She looked at Dimitri. “At the risk of your own injury, you came to save your baby brother.” She smirked. “I knew I was right about you.”
“He is my brother.” Dimitri looked at the baby in her arms. “I don’t hate him.”
“I know,” she replied. “Why else would you purposely seclude yourself if not to protect your brother and your parents? Even if it is from you.”
The Countess checked Viktor for any bruises before walking to his mother and handing her the baby.
“Countess, what are you doing here?” she asked.
Dimitri was in such a daze; he didn’t realize that she was there. There was no reason for her to be, as she no longer managed the resort tents directly, but mainly because of another reason.
“When did you get back?” He knew it was rude to ask so directly, but it just came out.
The Countess didn’t seem at all bothered. “Not too long ago. I heard my littlest namesake was here, so I came to see him.” She reached forward and gently pinched Viktor’s chubby cheek. The baby giggled and tried to grab her. She looked at Dimitri and then at his parents and back. “Are you done hiding?”
Dimitri shrank his neck and looked away.
“Countess, you knew our son was avoiding us?” his father asked, red-faced with embarrassment.
“It’s kind of obvious.” She shrugged. “His lingering trauma after that incident really affected him...but, it’s not my place to get involved in your family matters. If I do too much, people will talk. However, I wouldn’t worry too much about your eldest son. I can vouch for him.”
Dimitri looked back at her with a thankful expression.
“There is no need to vouch for him, my lady. I know that the shadows of the past still haunt him...but I am his father. I know his character and a single lapse will not make me lose faith in my son.”
Dimitri looked back at his father with disbelief. “Father?”
“I was only concerned that you resented us for having another child...and that you didn’t like your brother.”
“How could I not love my brother?” Did everyone really feel that way? Was his treatment too harsh?
“Then don’t stay away from us,” his mother said with a pained look. “You are our son, too.”
Dimitri hesitated. “I still have this internship here and can’t leave. And I have school.”
“Then come home when you can and don’t purposely avoid us. You have a place at home, Dimitri.”
The tightness in his chest loosened. He bit his lips and nodded. “I’ll schedule my time better.”
“All right.” The Countess clapped her hands together. “I’m going to go settle those rowdy drunks. If there is anything we can do to make your stay more enjoyable, please let us know. I’ll have someone add complimentary dinners on your cards for today’s troubles. That was due to our negligence dealing with guests. And, Guthry, don’t mind Fifi’s harsh words. She often scolds her chickens because she cares.”
Dimitri squinted his eyes. Am I no better than chickens in that child’s eyes?
“Dimitri.” His mother’s gentle voice called to him and he turned his head towards her, his father, and the baby looking at him with big eyes. “We’ve missed you.”
He blinked as his eyes reddened. In truth, a big part of himself wanted to be with his family. Perhaps that was why he was so uncomfortable when he was away instead of relieved, as he’d thought he would be.
He wanted to be wanted. His eyes crinkled up as he smiled helplessly. “I missed you, too.”
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All four years of Université passed faster than he thought it would, and while Dimitri never had that same level of popularity he had in Lycée his first year, he became fairly well known for his analysis of new policies and was active in the academic circle questioning and refining current issues.
He was able to continue his summer internships and before he graduated, he was formally offered a job at the Cosora Delta.
A fixed position also allowed him the ability to move his residency to Viclya, something that usually required a long period of waiting and screening, as in order to control the influx of new residents so as not to damage the infrastructure, the county had to resort to limiting the amount of accepted residents per year, and also gave preference for those related to existing residents.
“What do you think of this place?” Dimitri held the small hand of his brother as the little boy, who looked like a miniature of him, looked around the two-story townhouse a few short blocks from the Promenade, but with a good view of the river. “It’s not far from the beach. When you visit, you’ll be close by. And there is a transport carriage spot nearby, so you’ll be able to go to riding classes or boating classes.”
“Dimitri, he is three,” his father said in a dull voice. “He’s not going to take a transport carriage by himself.”
“It’s never too early for him to learn. Children as young as five and six take transport carriages here,” Dimitri said proudly. “It’s very safe here.”
The safety patrols were personally led and trained by retired imperial knights, and public safety was instilled in students as young as primary school. Children in secondary school also had first aide classes and all children would start their physical education with basic martial arts to keep them healthy.
“Big brother, do I have a room?” Viktor asked, tugging at his arm.
“Of course, you have a room!” Dimitri picked him up and beamed. “There is a small room on the ground floor that is supposed to be a study, but I think it is perfect to be your room. I will order a small bed for you and a small desk and a wardrobe.”
He ignored their parents and walked down the hall of the empty house to show off his new home to his brother. Housing was made affordable for government workers and they could either rent or, if they wanted something more permanent, they could pay monthly installments that would be deducted from their pay.
If they left the county government before their home was paid off, they could continue to pay the normal rate per month until it was paid or pay the remaining amount of the subsidized rate in one lump sum.
Dimitri had no plans to move from the delta anytime soon, or ever. He was very excited about his job. As such, he selected a home that could fit a small family in a convenient location. He planned to settle in the delta completely.
A knock came from the open door to the entrance of the townhouse and Dimitri put his brother down and went to see who was knocking. It wasn’t a weekday, so he didn’t have work, nor was he expecting anyone.
“Hello!” The woman smiled from just outside the threshold, and stood up straight, giving a small, awkward wave of her hand. “I am Annika Skuldsen, I am interning at the Cosora Merchant Guild this summer. I attend the Fekete Mercantile School. I’m your neighbor.”
“Neighbor?” Dimitri furrowed his brows. He seemed to recognize the name, but he had a corner house and the one next to him was still vacant. “Next door?”
“No across the street,” the woman said. She seemed to notice his confused look and chuckled. “My brother is Henrik Skuldsen. You may know him? He is doing some trade right now, so he’s letting me stay at his house while he’s traveling about and going to Nord this summer.”
Dimitri’s brows shot up. No wonder the name sounded familiar. “You’re Henrik’s younger sister.”
She smiled and nodded. “Yes, I saw someone come in and wanted to introduce myself.”
Dimitri opened his mouth and extended his hand to greet her only to have his mother suddenly cut in front of him.
“Hello, young lady! I am Miriam Guthry. This is my husband, Charles with our youngest, Viktor, and my son Dimitri Guthry.” She eagerly shook the woman’s hand.
“I work for Infrastructure and Public Works,” Dimitri said, raising a brow at his mother. What was she doing?
“So, you’re watching the house for your brother, are you? If you know Henrik, you must know Ilyana and the Countess?”
“Yes, they’ve...they’ve actually helped me quite a bit,” Annika replied with a helpless smile. “Something happened when I was a teenager and I nearly lost all my family’s property.” Dimitri’s ears perked up. “It’s a bit of a long story, but I assure you, I’m much better now. I learned from my mistakes.” He raised a brow. He vaguely remembered hearing about what had happened to Henrik’s younger sister and how she was also involved with a traitor. “I’m trying to help my family regain our foothold in commerce.”
Dimitri could’ve sworn there was a predatory look in his mother’s eyes. “Oh, my, you must’ve been through a lot. And you’ve come this far. Henrik is a good boy. I am sure he would not have trusted you with his home if he did not believe in you.”
Annika lowered her eyes and smiled. “We didn’t get along initially, but he’s been my family’s backing since I nearly ruined us. I know he doesn’t expect much from me, but he doesn’t want me to sit around and be a waste.”
“How long have you been in Viclya, Miss Skuldsen?” Dimitri’s father asked as he handed Viktor to his wife.
“I’ve been here a few times prior and last winter break, my brother made me come to help. He said I needed to learn,” she said with a slight laugh. “I arrived a few days ago to stay for the summer. My brother said to get to know the area, so here I am.”
“Then, you must have dinner with us,” his mother said. “We were just about to go.”
“Oh, then, in that case, allow me to treat you to Sapphire-by-the-Sea. I get a family discount since it is my brother’s restaurant.”
“I was just going to suggest going there, but let us treat you. You’ll be living across from my son for the summer. It is good to know your neighbors and have someone to depend on.”
Dimitri watched his mother usher Annika out the door, chattering away about what she did at the Merchant’s Guild, what her plans were after school, and if she hoped to settle in Viclya.
Dimitri’s father let out a heavy sigh. “Your mother always likes to make new friends. If it weren’t for her, no one would’ve known who I was when I was new to the Chamber.”
Dimitri chuckled. “Then let’s go. We left this morning and breakfast wasn’t much.” He led his father outside and closed his door. It was arranged with a crystal key fob that was registered to the owner. “The crystal technology here is advancing quickly. The joint projects with allies from overseas are proving highly beneficial. I’m glad that I was offered a position here. I mean, I was hoping, of course, but nothing is ever promised.”
As they made it up the street, his father slowed ahead of him.
“Dimitri.” His father stopped him, cutting him off from catching up to his mother, Annika, and Viktor.
Dimitri drew his head back and cocked it to the side. “Yes, Father?”
The older man, now his black hair speckled with gray, looked up at him. For a moment, Dimitri wondered when he’d grown taller than his father.
“You’ve worked hard these last few years. Harder than I have,” he said. His voice grew a bit hoarse. “You’ve come so far.” Dimitri’s eyes widened as he saw it. He saw that glint in his father’s eyes. One he thought he’d never see again. The one of pride. “You’ve come so far on your own, through your own efforts, getting your own recognition without depending on your name or the family. You would make our ancestors who strived to support the empire proud, Dimitri. You make me proud.”
Without another word, his father closed the small gap between them and engulfed him in a warm embrace. Dimitri stood there, frozen in his spot as his eyes were wide and his arms hung at his side, stunned.
“Father....”
“I was scared for a while, Dimitri. Scared that I failed you, that I did not prepare you properly, but I can see you didn’t need me or the Guthry name. You can do this all on your own. You’ve done well, my son.”
Dimitri curled his lips inward. He shut his eyes and wrapped his arms around his father, squeezing him tight. “Thank you, Father.”
The father and son stood there for who knew how long. It wasn’t until they heard a slight cough and a woman’s voice speak up.
“I apologize for ruining the moment, but may I have a minute to speak to young Mr. Guthry?”
Dimitri’s eyes flew open and he almost choked as he saw the Countess standing a few paces away with a slight smirk on her lips.
“Your Imperial Highness!” Dimitri flushed as his father turned around and saw the woman standing there with a raised brow.
“Your Imperial Highness.” His father stepped back and bowed.
Countess Guevera raised a brow and crossed her arms over her ample chest. “I’m not married yet. I’m still a countess. Relax.”
The two men pulled apart and Dimitri flushed. Not far from her were two imperial knights. As far as he was concerned, she had been an imperial family member since long ago.
“My I help you with something, my lady?”
“I’m setting sail for some work tomorrow and wanted to speak to you before I leave. Nothing too important, but you’re officially starting a government working in my county, so I felt I should give you some words of preparation.”
Dimitri looked at his father, who nodded to excuse him. He put his hand on Dimitri’s shoulder and gave him a small nod. “Go with the Countess. We will meet you at the restaurant.”
Dimitri nodded and watched his father leave before turning back to the Countess. He bowed his head. “Thank you for this opportunity.”
She smirked and shook her head once. “I didn’t do anything. All the internship positions, their reviews, and job offers were done by the Infrastructure and Public Works Commissioner and his team. At best, I gave the final approval when he wanted to hire you for a permanent position.” She turned around and waved for him to follow her as they spoke. He didn’t hesitate and took a few steps to catch up with her. “You’ve worked for the committee for a while now. How confident are you?”
“There is still much to learn, but I feel I have an excellent foundation. Commissioner Ingram has given me incredible guidance and I hope to work under and learn from him for a few more years,” Dimitri said. Commissioner Ingram was a lively and brilliant man married to the Administrative and Legal Viscountess, Viscountess Bustamante.
The Countess hired them years ago, when the county had just been given to her to govern. In Cosora, there were two viscount positions that were assigned by the Countess and were not inherited. They were used for law and taxes in governance.
“He told me that he wants to train you a few more years and suggests you do additional courses in law, as it’ll be useful in your career,” the Countess replied without looking back at him. “I agree. Université does have an extension program that allows graduates to take additional classes on Soleil law. Piers is making Albert take those classes.”
Dimitri knew that. Albert had almost cried when he told everyone that although he had a job lined up as the Crown Prince’s aide, he was not yet done with schooling. At the time, Dimitri had been attracted to the idea of studying law, as well, also believing it would be useful in his career.
“The classes are week-long intensive courses, once a month, for a full year. I’d have to go back to Horizon for them,” he said.
“Yes, are you hesitant?”
“Will it not hinder my job here?” Dimitri asked, raising a brow. That was his main concern. He had his heart set on the position he’d taken on.
The Countess shook her head once. “Commissioner Ingram is insistent that you take it and will work around a schedule to ensure it. He believes it will only be beneficial not only to you, but to the delta.” He didn’t respond immediately and she glanced over. “And my county does pay for extended education for employees for relevant positions. I’m sure you’ve noticed that since we’ve moved out of the manor, there were other occupants?”
Dimitri nodded. He felt uncomfortable going back to study and eat at the manor house without the people who invited him. Even when Constantine was studying abroad, Albert and Henrik invited him. Even Agafonova was begrudging in welcoming him. If it weren’t for Young Lord Ezvan Fekete inviting him to continue, he wouldn’t have such thick skin to go back.
At the time, aside from Ezvan who was boarding there, there were others from Cosora also studying, but through the extension classes. They weren’t always there, either.
“Are you saying I can stay at the manor?” Dimitri asked, a bit stunned.
Her lip curled up. “I knew you’d understand,” she said. “You’ll spend the summer here and come autumn, once a week, you will take the intensive year-long legal course until the next autumn."
Dimitri nodded. The county would cover the costs and he had room and board. Not to mention he’d be able to take the classes he wanted. “Understood, my lady. I will not disappoint you or Commissioner Ingram.”
“I know. He’s worked hard to train you all this time. He can’t wait to hand you over to his wife for additional training.”
Dimitri perked up and drew his head back. “To the Viscountess?”
“They have plans for you. Corosa’s viscount positions can only be held for ten years, unless otherwise disposed before the ten years is over for malpractice. In eight years, the viscountess is required to step down and plans to continue working for the county, but in an advisor position. They want to train someone fitting for the role and dedicated to the delta.” The Countess stopped and turned around to face him. “Do you understand what I’m saying, Dimitri Guthry?”
His heart slammed against his chest as he shook. “They want to train me to become....?”
“It’s not Prime Minister,” the Countess said with a slight smirk. “But Viscount Guthry doesn’t sound too bad, does it?”
Dimitri’s eyes reddened and a tightness pinched the bridge of his nose. He drew in his lips to keep back the small, disbelieving whimper. This was too good to be true. He never thought he’d ever reach such a distinguished position in his life and was prepared to work in a supportive position his entire life.
As long as he did good for people, he was satisfied.
“It does not....” He almost choked out.
The Countess let out a little laugh. “Now, it’s not set in stone. You’re not guaranteed the position by any means. If you don’t meet their expectations, then don’t think of it at all.”
“I understand.”
“Once more, Guthry, you find that there is a lot expected of you, but you are not alone in carrying such a burden. Seek assistance and guidance, review your work thoroughly and ethically, and remember that you are doing this for the people of this county.”
Dimitri nodded. He stood up straight and bowed. “Thank you, my lady. I will not disappoint you, the Commissioner, the Viscountess, or the people of the Cosora Delta.”
He didn’t see her nod as he kept his head down. “Also important, Dimitri...don’t disappoint yourself.” He felt a hand on his shoulder. “Good luck. Tell your mother I said hello and that I’ll bring her something nice from my trip. I’ll see you in a few months.”
The warm hand on his shoulder lifted and he saw her booted feet turn around and walk away. He slowly stood up straight and watched as the woman walked, almost dramatically, into the sunset. A small smile pulled at his lips as he wiped at his eyes.
He had a long way to go; a lot more to study, but he’d never felt so happy and excited for his future.
“Viscount Guthry....” he said in a quiet, amused voice. He grinned and shook his head. He turned and walked in the direction of the restaurant. “I better make myself worthy.”
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Dimitri Guthry [COMPLETE]