{He finally tracks down some sugar cookies and a small cake. With the aid of a larger plate, he makes a nice grouping of each for them to enjoy.}

Those who work with you the closest no longer have anything to say. {There is a certain beauty to that. He glances at Undertaker, paling.} Ah... Was there anything left of...us? I do not rightly know what became of me or Rachel after.

{He smiles faintly without much humor.} Mother held the financial reins, I assure you. Phantomhive is a far older and richer name. I took her surname for that reason - and for the fact that she was the one who prepared me to serve the Queen.

{Claudia had bent a few rules in her time, which is precisely why Vincent was so well-prepared to have a lot of strong-willed women in his life.}

Is that all? {He carries the plate to the table and purses his lips.} We can't have you lonely.

{Color congregates on his cheeks again and he turns away slightly.}

See to him. I...will adapt. {Surely he is strong enough? He likes to think so, but -} It was a very nice nap.