Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Mama Bear

LeFou took the last duck from the ground and tied it to the rope strung between two pine trees. The smell of smoked deer filled the air as Gaston sat crouched near the campfire, working on preserving the largest of his many kills. Some of the meat needed to be salted to keep it from rotting and other parts dried out in the sun until it was ready to pack away for later. “That’s all of them.” LeFou turned to Gaston. “Well, all the waterfowl at least.” He added.

Gaston glanced up at the line of hanging ducks behind LeFou. “I’ll get to those next,” Gaston told him. “The skins from yesterday are almost ready for the cart. We set our course for home tomorrow, at first light.”

LeFou walked over to where several deer skins hung over another nearby tree. “Is the mighty hunter satisfied with the number of kills he made?” He reached up to take down the fur pelts as he spoke.

“Yes, I am LeFou. We have more than enough for winter, and good thing; it’s going to be a long one this year. I can feel it in the wind.” Gaston said, looking up towards the grey sky.  

LeFou stood on his toes to reach the remaining skins on the higher branches. “I’m ready to be home. I miss our bed.” He said although he should be used to it, as it was the annual hunting trip Gaston took every year. Though LeFou still couldn’t help but miss home every year by the end of the seven-week autumn hunt.

“I, too, am ready for home,” Gaston told him. “I look forward to seeing the looks on everyone’s faces when they see how much game we brought home.”

LeFou pulled himself up onto the edge of the cart as he maintained his balance with the skins in his arms. He began sorting them into the right sections and thought about how they would fit everything inside. “I think you got more this year than the last, Gaston,” LeFou said with a grin.

Gaston began laying out the smoked meat to dry, noting that each section was thorough enough as he worked. “Last year, the rain hardly wanted to stop, all through autumn.” Gaston reminded him. “It made the tracking a nightmare.”

LeFou laughed at the memory. “Oh, yes, and we both caught such terrible colds by the time we got back to the village. We had so much tea that week.” LeFou walked over to Gaston and sat down on the blanket beside him. “So uh, I assume smoked deer is on the menu tonight?” LeFou asked.

Gaston glanced towards the cart that seemed to be bursting at the brim already. “Do we have any more potatoes or carrots from home?” He asked.

LeFou touched his chin for a brief moment as if recalling. “No, we ran out yesterday.”

Gaston nodded; he had assumed as much. “Then deer meat it is unless you want boar,” Gaston told him. Lefou scrunched up his face in an unappealing way, and Gaston laughed. “Or I could go catch a few delicate rabbits for you?”

LeFou smiled warmly at the offer. “Rabbit sounds good.” He told him. LeFou always preferred the softer meats rather than the toughness of boar or pork.

Gaston, who loved the idea of a quick hunt, got up from his place by the fire. “Alright, I’ll be back before you know it.” He told him. Though rabbits were a waste of time, in his opinion, he knew LeFou loved it when he set out on a hunt just for him.

“Do you want me to release a few of the dogs?” LeFou asked him when Gaston went to take the smaller of his two firearms from the tent.

“No, I won’t need them for this. Besides, the dogs are still tired from today's hunt,” Gaston told him.

LeFou nodded and got up to check the cart one last time for anything he could add to their dinner. The small barrels once holding the carrots and potatoes were now full of smoked and salted meats. He checked the front, right behind the passenger seat, thinking they had to have at least some apples left from home. If they did, they wouldn’t last much longer before going bad. LeFou lifted the lid off a small barrel, and to his luck, found four apples still at the bottom. He took the whole barrel out of the cart, knowing Gaston would want to put more meat in it later before they journeyed home. LeFou took the apples, as all of them still seemed in good enough shape to eat, and went back to the fire. He left them to rest on the blanket before going to the tent to start getting things situated in preparation for home.

When Gaston returned with two large rabbits, LeFou applauded him gratefully and sat down with a wet rag to clean off the apples before dinner. “I found a few green apples,” LeFou told him happily. “And some more space for the rest of the meat.”

Gaston pulled out his skinning knife and started on the rabbits. “Well done, my love,” Gaston told him. “A good dinner for our last night out.”

LeFou hummed in thought as he imagined sleeping in his bed tomorrow night, instead of the piles of blankets on the ground inside their makeshift, temporary home.    

 By the time dinner was served, the sun was just starting to make its way down past the trees, sending rays of glowing light that shimmered through the branches into their campsite. LeFou borrowed one of Gaston’s knives to cut up the apples into slices and then took his plate from Gaston when the rabbit meat was ready. “This is very good, love,” LeFou told him when he took a bite of the meat, followed by the fruit. The sweetness from the apple and the smoked rabbit blended perfectly together.

Gaston shoved a fork full of meat into his mouth and nodded at LeFou’s approval. “Not bad.” He told him, then took a few slices of apple. “Is there anything you would like to do tonight before returning home, LeFou?” Gaston asked. “I would suggest a midnight swim, but the nights are getting colder.”

LeFou shivered at the thought. “No cold water for me, please.” He told Gaston. LeFou didn’t care for the water much, not only because he could hardly swim but because he hated being cold, and the darkness of night made it look even more deadly.

“Perhaps in the summer then,” Gaston said, his mind returning to the things he still needed to do before they went home. “We should be back to Villeneuve before dusk,” Gaston told him and took the last bite of dinner before getting up. “If we leave soon enough.”

“Sounds good to me,” LeFou said with a smile. After he finished his dinner, he took the things they didn’t need until tomorrow to the cart as Gaston loaded up the last of the game. Together they got everything ready for the trip home just as the sun started trading places with the moon, bringing a crisp sort of nostalgia to the air.

Escaping the cold, LeFou burrowed deep inside the blankets as Gaston ducked down to step inside the tent. He closed the entrance behind him to block out any night chill. LeFou’s body lay just underneath the fur blankets, barely visible against the lantern light hanging from a thick stick above them.

Gaston blew out the candle, and excitement filled LeFou as he felt Gaston get down onto his knees and crawl through the darkness into the blankets beside him. The air entered the blankets for a moment, making LeFou shiver, though the cold quickly vanished against the warmth of Gaston’s body so close to his. “Mmm... you're so warm.” LeFou cooed happily and snuggled deeper into his chest. Gaston wrapped his strong arms around LeFou and kissed his head, the warmth between them making each more sleepy.

“We did well this year, LeFou,” Gaston said, listening to nothing but the gentle breathing of his partner. “We do well every year. But this year was exceptional.” He added. LeFou hummed in response and adjusted his arm against Gaston’s chest to burrow even deeper into comfort. “We’ll have enough to go around and more, and the money we make from the proceeds can go to our holiday savings next year.” The only response to Gaston’s words was LeFou’s breath growing heavier. Gaston smiled slightly and kissed the top of his head before nuzzling into him, allowing the sensation of sleep to pull him in as well. He loved how quickly LeFou had fallen to sleep, how safe he was in his embrace. No trouble sleeping, no nightmares, just peaceful, comfy, LeFou, without a care in the world. The fact that Gaston was able to be the man who pulled LeFou into such tranquillity made him feel like the luckiest man alive, with the most important job in the world, keeping LeFou safe.

Gaston’s heart leapt in his chest as LeFou pulled from his arms into an upright position. Small whimpers spilt from LeFou’s mouth as he tried desperately to warn Gaston of a possible threat.

Gaston shook the drowsiness from his head and reached to find LeFou in the darkness. “LeFou, it’s only a dream love, I’m here,” Gaston said as he found LeFou’s hand. He could feel him trembling slightly and placed an arm around his back.

“I…” LeFou swallowed hard, taking a breath. “I thought I heard something, an animal in the woods.” He realized it was probably just a dream, but the feeling that something was out there still pressed at his mind.

“Will it make you feel better if I go check it out?” Gaston asked and brushed his face gently with the back of his hand.

LeFou nodded, and Gaston pressed a kiss to his brow. “Alright,” Gaston said and reached across the tent with the hand that LeFou wasn’t holding in a death grip and grabbed his pistol. “Don’t worry, LeFou. I’ll protect you if something is out there.” He promised and might have winked if LeFou would have been able to see it.  

LeFou took a deep breath, reassured by Gaston’s words as he listened to the silence outside their tent. “I’m ready for home.” He admitted. “All these noises are so frightening sometimes.”

Gaston chuckled. “You're such a girl, LeFou.”

LeFou hummed and leaned closer to Gaston. “And you're... such a... such a man.” He said, almost dreamily as he thought about it.  

Gaston held his arm around LeFou for only a moment more before pulling away. “I’ll go look around our camp and be right back.” He promised.

LeFou held the blankets close to his chest as Gaston made his way to the front of the tent. “Be careful,” LeFou called to him.

“Always am,” Gaston replied, though he wasn’t, and pulled open the entrance of their safe place. He peered out into the moonlit darkness for a moment before stepping out into the night. LeFou swallowed hard in anticipation, his stomach hurting with worry as the shadow of Gaston left his sight.

After surveying the campsite and not hearing or seeing anything to be concerned about, Gaston came back to find LeFou still wide awake and waiting for him. “Nothing,” Gaston told him. “Just a quiet forest.” LeFou took a relieved breath as Gaston entered the tent. “But the dawn is nearly here; we might as well get breakfast and start on our way home,” Gaston said and crouched down in front of LeFou.

“Alright,” LeFou said tiredly. “If you insist.”

Gaston gave LeFou a quick kiss on the lips. “I do.” He told him before leaving the tent again to get the fire started for breakfast.

LeFou laid back down tiredly. “Alright, just give me a minute.” He told him, his eyelids growing heavy, drowsiness threatening to envelop him.

LeFou woke to the gentle song of birds singing in the forest. It was light out, and the tent was nearly empty. He could smell bacon cooking on the stove outside the tent and heard Gaston singing softly to himself. LeFou scolded himself for falling back to sleep and hurried quickly from his nest of blankets, grabbing his coat on the way out. Gaston had been polite enough to let him sleep in, and now he felt guilty.

“Good morning,” Gaston said with a smirk as LeFou came stumbling from the tent. LeFou noticed as fog still made its way through the trees; it was still early, and the sun must have just risen. “A minute, huh, LeFou?” Gaston teased him.

“I’m sorry, Gaston,” LeFou apologized and approached the huntsman, who handed him a plate of bacon.

Gaston started on his breakfast, ripping off half of a bacon strip with his teeth. “Most everything is ready to go,” Gaston told LeFou and glanced around to make sure he didn’t forget anything. “I loaded up the rest early this morning. The weather is good, so it won’t take us long to get back.”  

LeFou nibbled on his bacon quietly as Gaston continued talking about plans and the journey home. Once finished with breakfast, LeFou started gathering up the plates and other utensils from last night’s dinner. He pulled his jacket around him tighter, wishing for the sun to hurry up and warm the air so it wouldn’t be so chilly outside. Gaston put out the fire before he started tearing down the house they had been living in for over a month and taking the parts of it to the cart they had brought with them.

LeFou had just walked away from the campfire, going to take the last of the dishware to the cart, when he heard an odd sound coming from the forest. The same sound he remembered in his dream last night, of which he had only just recalled. LeFou nearly dropped the dishes but managed to keep them in his arms as he glanced into the brush to see what it might be. He nearly jumped out of his skin as an uproar of barking came from the dogs, still contained by the cart. He turned to Gaston for help and saw he was also listening and watching for what might happen next, his hand steady on his gun.

LeFou’s heart dropped when he saw a tiny, furry thing struggling out of the bushes, utterly oblivious to their presence and crying out for help, frightened by the dogs. LeFou would have found it adorable if it wasn’t for the next sound that followed, a sound of beastly rage, met by the angry, persistent barking of their protective dogs.

Gaston cocked his musket without a moment's hesitation as he ran to LeFou, just as a bear came blundering out of the forest. He held out an arm, nearly pushing LeFou back behind him as he stood their ground, ready to protect LeFou. Gaston yelled out in an attempt to intimidate the creature, but this didn’t seem to faze it. LeFou’s heart raced as Gaston aimed for the snarling beast, its mouth foaming as it charged the two men.

With one shot, the creature fell, sliding hard into the earth before them. Silence enveloped the forest for a moment as the panic of what had just happened set in, and the dogs quieted once they saw their master had killed the beast. Gaston took a breath and walked over to the animal. To be sure, he fired another shot into its skull and lifted the corner of its mouth with his boot. “She was diseased,” Gaston told his partner. “Something may have bitten her.”

LeFou set everything he had been holding on the ground and approached Gaston. “Well, I doubt it lived to tell the tale.”

Gaston shrugged. “Probably a badger or skunk.” He said and looked at the baby bear as it wiggled its way from the brush to its mother. Gaston sighed as the tiny ball of fuzz rooted around in her fur for milk.

“Oh…you poor baby,” LeFou cooed and reached down to the baby bear.

“LeFou,” Gaston said in a stern tone, knowing the moment LeFou made contact with the infant, it would only make matters worse. The baby was going to starve, they had a hard decision to make, but it was the only thing they could do.

“Come here, it’s alright,” LeFou said, clearly not hearing Gaston. He scooped the baby bear into his arms as it cried out in fear, unsure about what was going on.

“LeFou,” Gaston said again. “You know what needs to be done. We can’t take care of a wild animal.”

“Oh, but Gaston.” LeFou chimed, adoring the creature in his arms. “Don’t be so mean,” He said cutely and looked at the huntsman. “We can’t just leave him,” He added, a bit more persistent than before, though he still wore that cute look on his face. The look he only wore when he saw something adorable.

Gaston sighed; LeFou just didn’t understand these things. Sometimes he wondered if he should rethink taking him on hunting trips altogether. “Not leave, LeFou…” Gaston said regretfully.

LeFou’s mouth dropped, and his brow furrowed into a look of horror. “Gaston! No! We can’t; that’s terrible!”

Gaston rubbed the back of his neck in frustration. “It has to be done, LeFou; we cannot take a bear back to Villeneuve.” LeFou held the baby close to his chest and looked down at its dead mother. “I’m sorry, I don’t like it either,” Gaston told him. “But it has to be done.”

LeFou pursed his lips into a pout, looking back to the huntsman. “But Gaston, it’s a baby!” LeFou exclaimed. Gaston looked to the bear cub, no bigger than a large rabbit, and sighed. What on earth was he to do? Even if they could wean the small creature, it would only grow up and become a dangerous predator. Then what? LeFou was not using his head. “Please, Gaston?” LeFou begged as the baby bear wiggled around in his arms. “We can find someone that will take him. We can set him free when he gets old enough.”

Gaston looked to LeFou in adoring irritation. “You're such a softy, LeFou.” He told the shorter man, who smiled because he could tell Gaston was giving in to his pleas.

“We can find someone to help, someone that cares. Huh, little guy?” LeFou said, talking to the bear again.

Gaston rolled his eyes and picked up the items off the ground that LeFou had put down moments ago. “Alright, I’ll see if one of the lads can help us figure out something to do with the little threat,” Gaston said and started towards the horses.

“Oh, you're not a threat.” LeFou chimed in an adoring voice.

 A small smile formed on the corner of Gaston’s mouth as he listened to his partner coo over the animal. “Are you coming, LeFou?” Gaston asked.

LeFou looked down at the baby with an adoring smile. “See, he’s not heartless,” He told the bear and looked down at the mother. “I’ll take care of him.” He promised, feeling almost guilty for taking the baby as he hurried after Gaston. LeFou knew they should do away with her body, but as deep as they were in the forest, the trees were sure to catch fire. And because Gaston wanted to get home before nightfall, they wouldn’t have enough time to dig a hole her size.

LeFou got situated in the front seat, and Gaston released the dogs, making his way to the back of the cart, a hesitant expression on his face. “What is it, Gaston?” LeFou asked him.

Gaston held his chin thoughtfully, trying to decide how much room they had in the back. “I was thinking of taking the bear, though I’m not sure we have room. We could use another rug.”

LeFou chuckled. “Could we, though?”

Gaston pursed his lips before looking towards the bear. She had the madness disease; maybe it wasn’t worth it. “But I hate to let her go to waste,” Gaston argued with himself at this point, as if being a rug on his floor would somehow make the bear’s death a justified or honourable one.

“It’s alright, my love. I’m sure you’ll have another opportunity for another bear rug.” LeFou told him. “One bigger than her anyway.” He said to Gaston, trying to make him feel better.

Gaston shrugged, the cart was already too full, and much more weight would probably break a wheel or strain the horses, and he couldn’t leave any of the meat behind. “Alright,” Gaston said with a sigh and got up into the cart next to LeFou. He shook his head at the tiny creature in LeFou’s arms, playfully mocking him for being so soft. “I can’t believe you, LeFou. What are you going to feed him?” Gaston asked and took the horse’s reins, snapping them just enough for the horses to get going.

With a jerk, the carriage leapt forward as they set into motion. “Goats milk,” LeFou chirped and looked back at the empty campsite, where the past several weeks of memories would disappear, all but inside their heads. The dead bear was far enough out of the site that LeFou couldn’t see her as they drove away, and he was grateful she was at least out of her misery.

“I’m sure old Farmer Bill will love you for that.” He laughed. “LeFou, do you know how much milk a baby bear needs?” He asked him.

LeFou was hardly listening and beamed at the baby in his arms as it grew sleepy. “We’re going to find out, aren’t we?” He giggled and stroked the baby's head.

Gaston laughed and placed his arm around LeFou as they rode back towards home, allowing the smaller man to lean into his side for support. “Ah, LeFou,” Gaston said and shook his head. “No one, and I mean no one, is sweeter than you are.”

Gaston wiped his muddy boots off at the front door and walked into the living room. He smiled when he saw LeFou sitting at the dining room table, as he had done so faithfully for the past three weeks. LeFou, by nature, had wanted to name the baby a day into having him, although Gaston told him it wouldn’t make it any easier when he had to part with him. Still, LeFou couldn’t help himself. The little one had to have a name, LeFou told Gaston, even if he wasn’t staying long.

“Hello, Gaston,” LeFou said happily, his concentration breaking from feeding the baby bear. “Did you find out who's been trespassing in Farmer Charloun's crops?” He asked, turning back to the baby in his arms.

“Only some of the village lads up to a little fun last night,” Gaston said as he hung his coat over his mighty armchair. “I sent Pere Robert over to the schoolhouse today to have a word with them. Anyway, no real harm done. How was your time without me?” Gaston asked with a smirk and leaned over to kiss LeFou.

LeFou hummed happily. “Dreadfully lonely.” He said dreamily and motioned to the bear as if he could understand him. “Look, Daddy’s home,” LeFou said to the baby as he removed the empty bottle from its mouth. A bottle Gaston had made especially for him out of a pig’s bladder.

The bear squalled as LeFou adjusted him in his arms, cooing sweetly at him. “Oh, Gaston! Look, he’s starting to get around better on his own!” LeFou said and set the cub on the floor, where the baby bear started almost frolicking towards the stairs.

Gaston sighed; now he must tell LeFou he had also just come back from speaking with the lads about this little creature that had recently taken up residence in their house. “Alright, Mama Bear, let’s talk,” Gaston said and sat down on the couch, patting the spot beside him for LeFou to sit. Recently Gaston had gotten into the habit of calling LeFou by the adorable nickname, Mama Bear, whenever he saw him acting like a mother to the baby bear, and LeFou seemed to love it.

LeFou picked up Snuggle Bear, wincing when the little one began using his hand as something to teethe on. He quickly pulled his hand away and grabbed the rope toy from off the table. One he had made for him days ago. LeFou sat down, and the baby started gnawing on the toy happily. “You found a home for him, didn’t you?” LeFou guessed. Gaston nodded with the raise of his eyebrows, and a sigh escaped LeFou’s lips. “That’s alright; I knew it couldn’t last forever.” He said and petted the cub’s head lovingly. “But I am going to miss you, little one.” He told him and kissed the bear’s head. Gaston put his arm around LeFou and let him lean in close to his chest. He was glad LeFou was taking it well; he honestly wasn’t sure he would, as attached as he seemed to be. It made Gaston wonder if LeFou ever wanted to be a father someday.

“One of the boys finally got back to me; he said he knows a man who knows a family that will take this little Snuggle Bear off our hands,” Gaston said and scratched the bear’s head around the ears.

LeFou laughed inwardly. To hear Gaston say that name still made him smile. It was both adorable and a little humorous. “Oh? Where from?” LeFou asked curiously.

“A family in Bordeaux. They live on a large reservation and take in mostly injured or small animals, like foxes or lynx. But they said it would be ok if we brought him to the farm this weekend.” Gaston rubbed his fingers in LeFou’s hair as he spoke, admiring his round face and long eyelashes.  

LeFou took a breath and snuggled deeper into Gaston, watching as the baby bear played about between their laps. “I’m glad he’ll be ok,” LeFou said. “At least we were able to help him. Do you think they will keep his name?” LeFou chimed.  

Gaston laughed. “We may very well ask them to keep his name.” He said and kissed LeFou’s head. He would never stop admiring how truly good LeFou was and how loving. Though he might not admit it, Gaston would be lost without him, for LeFou was his heart.

LeFou looked up with a smile in his eyes and leaned upward, kissing Gaston on the lips with a content hum. “Thank you, Gaston. I do love you so very much.”

The End

Chapter Text

You’ve Got Us

Sunlight crept in through the open window, spreading rays of light across LeFou’s face as he woke. Songbirds chirped through the early morning air, attempting to lift his mood despite how tired he felt. LeFou rolled over in search of cuddles from Gaston and was disheartened when he found the Captain had already left his side of the bed.

With a sigh, he lay there a moment before deciding he needed to get up and make breakfast. Sleeping in this late was unusual for LeFou ever since he moved in with Gaston. Though even on the good nights, it was still sometimes a challenge to keep up with the huntsman’s early morning rising, a habit he definitely learned from his father.

LeFou shifted his feet onto the cool floor and went to pick out his outfit for the day. A yawn escaped his lips as he scrambled about in the bottom cupboard drawer in search of some stockings, fearing his feet may freeze without them. His mind recalled the nightmares he had last night as the sleep began to wear off. With a sigh, he tried to push them away, but it seemed to be of no use. Why must he be so ridiculously sentimental that he couldn’t help but remember things like what happened a year ago today? Why couldn’t he just forget?

It wouldn’t be like this next year, LeFou promised himself. He wouldn’t allow the trauma of such a horrible series of events to plague any more of his blissful days with Gaston. After all, next year, it would be two years instead of one. The healing process had begun the day Gaston got him out of there. Perhaps next year, when the anniversary comes around again, he might be able to forget, or at least let it go, just water under the bridge, like the other scars of his past.

LeFou pulled some clothes from the wardrobe as his mind continued whirling around in the chaos of memory. There was something so bittersweet about a one-year mark of time. It was either painfully tragic or enduringly beautiful.

LeFou let out a hum as he went to the privy, getting ready for the day. He stared tiredly at the reflection looking back at him in the mirror. His hair was a mess from an uneasy sleep, and the white linen sleeves of his nightshirt were wrinkled from the turning in the night. LeFou dressed in a fresh white shirt and trousers. He had just brushed his hair and placed the brush back on the cupboard when Gaston’s heavy footsteps startled him from his deep thoughts.

“LeFou?” Gaston called as he walked towards his bedroom in search of his loyal friend.

“I…I’m right here.” LeFou chirped quickly. He peaked his head out of the doorway, forgetting his problems for just a moment when he saw Gaston. The man was so tall and just as handsome as ever in his white shirt and red braces running up his strong shoulders. And his low-cut neckline was almost enough to make him forget everything that made him so gloomy today.

“Good morning, LeFou,” Gaston said with enthusiasm as he walked down the hall towards the shorter man. He was delighted to see him. Gaston took LeFou’s hands in his, bringing them up to kiss him before speaking any further.

LeFou’s face grew warm. He was once again swept away by his partner's charm. “Good morning to you too, mighty huntsman.” LeFou followed Gaston into the bedroom. He watched as Gaston looked himself over in the golden mirror, observing his body from different angles, his entire being radiating with confidence. “Handsome as ever.” LeFou said with a dreamy sigh and leaned against the doorway.

Gaston smirked in LeFou’s direction and smoothed back his hair. “Get dressed LeFou, I’m taking you out to breakfast.” Gaston said and turned around to face him.

LeFou wondered if Gaston remembered that a year ago today, he had been shoved into a carriage bound for a madhouse full of lunatics. Not to mention it had been due to the vile plan of his dear and vengeful papa. Naturally, Gaston had come to the rescue, but not before some damage had already been done. LeFou almost hoped Gaston didn’t remember today. Then he wouldn’t have to talk about it. And he wasn’t sure talking about it was something he could handle.

“Any particular reason why you’re taking me to breakfast?” LeFou asked stiffly. Preferably he wanted to stay in the cottage today.

Satisfied with the way he looked, Gaston walked over to LeFou and stroked his arm gently before he leaned forward to take his hat off the hook on the wall.

“Nothing particular, no. Not really.” Gaston kissed LeFou’s cheek before pulling away and placing the hat on his head. “I was out chopping wood this morning and saw what a beautiful day it is. I thought you could use a break from cooking. We will go for a walk through the village after breakfast, and when we get back, you can make us a lovely cup of tea, and we’ll sit on the porch and talk about...” That’s when Gaston stopped. “Well, I don’t know, but I’m sure you’ll think of something for us to talk about.” Gaston smiled happily before clasping LeFou’s face in another kiss and then strode away from the room.

LeFou took a breath. That interaction with Gaston was certainly what he needed to feel better, so why was he still feeling down? As he dressed, he tried hard to push away the thoughts that had been sneaking up on him these past couple of days.

He hadn’t told Gaston about it because he didn’t want anyone to feel sorry for him, and he especially didn’t wish Gaston to think he was silly for dwelling on it too much. After all, Gaston achieved vengeance for him. Lifetime imprisonment for his poor, disturbed papa.

It was a shame that any son should ever find the fact of his father locked away forever, to be a blessing, but that was the sad and honest truth. The day Raphael was taken out of LeFou’s life, was the day a burden lifted that he hadn’t even realized he was carrying.

“LeFou!” Gaston called from downstairs, breaking the man from his thoughts with a startled jump.

“I’m coming!” LeFou squeaked. The Huntsman certainly wasn’t known for his patience. LeFou adjusted his doublet and grabbed his hat. He took his boots, shoving away more memories as they came flooding in. Maybe it was a good thing that Gaston wanted to get him out of the cottage this morning. He needed the distraction. With a sigh, he started down the stairs to meet his Captain in the living room.

“You look handsome, LeFou.” Gaston said with a dashing smile as LeFou came down the stairs.

LeFou forced a smile. “Oh..um, I don’t know..”

Gaston gave a confused look. Usually, LeFou went pink or at least giggled when he complimented him. Gaston held out an arm, ever the gentleman. “Ready?” He gave a smirk that he knew LeFou wouldn’t be able to resist.

LeFou took Gaston’s arm tenderly and didn’t look up to meet his eyes. “Ready, Captain.”

Gaston took LeFou’s chin, bringing his eyes to his own, searching the depth of auburn for what was bothering him. Talking was not always his forte, so instead, he pressed his mouth against his.

That seemed to do the trick as LeFou hummed, half timidly and the other half intimately, as he leaned into the kiss, forgetting for a short moment how heavy his mind was today.

“I thought a kiss might make you smile.” Gaston said when they broke the kiss. With that, he opened the front door to the cottage, letting in the lovely summer breeze.  

“You always make me smile, Gaston.” LeFou stepped outside as he waited on Gaston to lock the door.

Gaston started towards the tavern and held out an arm for LeFou to take as they walked. “Is something troubling you, LeFou?” Gaston asked him finally, trying words since LeFou still seemed quieter than usual. “You know I can always tell when something is wrong.”

LeFou bit the inside of his mouth to keep from telling him the truth. He didn’t want to bring down Gaston. He knew Gaston had felt like a failure when they took him away forcefully, that day in Paris. “Oh, I’m...just hungry.” LeFou said. It wasn’t entirely a lie, as he could tell his stomach was empty. “I didn’t have much for dinner yesterday.”

“Yes..that’s right.” Gaston thought back to the prior evening. “You hardly touched your food.” He stopped when they arrived at the tall doors of the tavern. Gaston had now begun to worry about LeFou’s good health. He raised his hand to touch LeFou’s forehead gently. “You don’t feel ill, do you? I can have the doctor come to see you upon my immediate request.” Gaston’s eyes were blue with concerned love.

LeFou blinked in surprise at the sudden contact and felt his cheeks grow warm. “No, I…I feel fine.”

Gaston pursed his lips in thought. “I’d say you look flushed, but your cheeks are always turning that colour.” He said with a smirk. Letting any previous worry go, he turned to push open the doors with his natural born authority.

LeFou followed Gaston into the tavern. He took a content breath as he looked around at the familiar faces. He watched as Gaston and Tom saw each other, and the man stood from his place at the table to shake Gaston’s hand. Dick turned from where he sat with the lads and found LeFou, smiling at him as he waved him over.

LeFou realized he was just standing there in the middle of the room as a waitress walked by with a tray of drinks.

“Hello, LeFou!” Will waved from the table across from Tom and Dick.

LeFou walked up to the table and stood dutifully beside Gaston. “Bonjour, everyone.” He said with a warm smile.

“Bonjour, LeFou,” Jaques waved, looking up from his breakfast. “You should come by the pottery shop and see Stanley’s latest work.” Jaques said and looked at Stanley, who sat across from him.

“He’s exaggerating,” Stanley said with a blush, hiding the embarrassment he felt from being the centre of attention.

“He is not!” Will said and nudged him playfully.

“I’m sure it’s beautiful, Stanley. Your work is always quite impressive.” LeFou assured him and looked to Dick, who was quietly listening to each conversation going on at the two tables.

“I’ll go order our breakfast.” LeFou walked away as Gaston continued discussing last week's hunt with Tom.

LeFou ordered Gaston’s plate of 5 eggs, three sausages, bread, and cheese, along with a mug of coffee. Normally he got a little less than what Gaston ordered, without quite so many eggs, but this morning he just ordered the porridge and coffee. He was hardly feeling as hungry as he told Gaston he was a moment ago.

Gaston sat down across from Tom and Dick as they continued their conversation. His eyes met LeFou’s as he waited for their breakfast. LeFou smiled at Gaston, making eyes at him from across the room as he so often did. That man was the only one who could make something like last year feel like nothing but an awful dream.

“LeFou, orders ready.” The bartender said, pulling LeFou from his gaze on Gaston.

“Thank you.” He said quickly and placed the gold on the counter before taking the tray of food. “Your breakfast, Captain,” LeFou said sweetly and put Gaston’s plate in front of him and his mug before sitting down.

“Thank you, LeFou.” Gaston smiled gently. “You're the best, as always.” He wanted to kiss him but held back the action, though the love came through his eyes anyway.

LeFou smiled warmly and took a spoon for the porridge, his cheeks warming again due to the apparent fondness for the man he loved. “I am at your service, Gaston, until the end.” LeFou smiled weakly, trying desperately to focus only on this perfect man in front of him. Sometimes he still couldn’t believe Gaston loved him like he always dreamt of.

“Until the end.” Gaston nodded, took his mug, and winked at LeFou before taking a drink of his coffee. LeFou smiled warmly and looked down. If he wasn’t blushing before, he was now.

LeFou did his best through the rest of breakfast to keep a smile on his face and forget his troubles. He didn’t want anyone to worry about it, and he knew how observant Dick was.

If LeFou didn’t convince them he had nothing on his mind, they would start to poke at him until he spilt, and that would only result in emotions he didn’t want to uncover right now, at least not in a public setting. So LeFou, being an expert at concealing his feelings, acted happy for long enough that he soon convinced himself he was. That is until they started on the way home, and the conversations stopped, and the air grew quiet as they walked down the tiny village of Villeneuve.

“Bonjour, Gaston and LeFou!” The barber waved as they passed. He stood mid shave over a man sitting in the barber chair.

“Bonjour, Fortunio.” Gaston nodded. LeFou stopped to watch the inevitable conversation unfold.

“Where are you off to this morning?” Fortunio asked and patted dry the man sitting in the chair.

 “Oh, you know, just the usual walk through the village, making sure everyone is in good sorts.” Gaston said with an award winning smile.

“Admirable, Captain.” The barber grinned. “And when shall I schedule your next visit?”

Gaston put a hand to his chin, an eyebrow raised. “Oh, give me another week, and I’ll come by. LeFou too if he’s up for it.”

LeFou gave a look that expressed he didn’t care what time they went to the barber. After all, his facial hair growth was at least a month behind Gaston’s at all times.

“Make it the last Friday of this month.” Gaston said.

The barber nodded, pleased with himself for doing even the most simple of business with Gaston. “I’ll mark it down, monsieur. It’s a pleasure to serve.” He said with a bow.

“It’s a pleasure to be the protector of such a fine people.” Gaston replied with a nod and held out an arm for LeFou, which he took gratefully, eager to be alone once again. “Good day, sir.” Gaston added before they began to walk away.

“You are always so charming, Captain. I don’t know how you do it.” LeFou found himself yawning. He placed a hand over his mouth and let out an unintentional whimper.

Gaston gave a puzzled look as he turned his eyes upon his partner. “Tired?”

LeFou placed his second hand over the arm that looped around Gaston’s. “No, I...” He paused. “Maybe a little.”

Gaston nodded to a villager passing by before bringing his focus back to LeFou once again. “Maybe we can sneak in a nap before lunch.” With more evidence in front of him, Gaston wondered if LeFou had been having nightmares. Those were common between the two of them after the war.

“That sounds lovely, Gaston,” LeFou stopped as another villager approached to speak with the Captain about...he didn’t know. LeFou zoned them out as they spoke, everyone in this village went to Gaston about absolutely everything, and sometimes the load could grow a little heavy.

After they finished their walk through the village, Gaston and LeFou made their way back up the familiar pathway to Gaston’s cottage. “I’ll get the tea,” LeFou said and touched the huntsman’s arm, a replacement for the kiss he wanted to place on his cheek.

Gaston knew the subtle gestures and smiled warmly at him before sitting down in one of the rocking chairs on the porch, watching as the village went by as it always did. As he waited, he pondered what it was that could be troubling LeFou today. He was usually so cheerful, but today he seemed quiet and distracted. Nightmares didn’t usually keep him in such a despairing mood all day, so what could it be?

Gaston’s thoughts were broken when he heard the sound of something falling against the wood with a clang. A curse came from inside the kitchen and a frustrated groan. Gaston sprung up from his chair and glanced inside through the open window. Hearing LeFou curse was a very uncommon sound to his ears, and he wondered what could have merited it.

LeFou picked up the chipped teacup and set it down on the counter before covering his face with his hands as a wave of emotion washed over him. Gaston hurried to the front door and made his way inside to LeFou, who hardly noticed him as he approached. Gaston reached out as he realized LeFou was crying as if something tragic just happened.

“LeFou?” Gaston said tenderly and ran his hand along LeFou’s back, taking him around the shoulders. LeFou allowed Gaston to guide him into his arms as he cried, no longer strong enough to hold it in anymore. He knew this was silly, and he hated himself for exposing all this emotion he had been trying to keep concealed.

Gaston held him close and placed a gentle kiss on the top of his head. He hadn’t a clue what was wrong but just wanted to make it better.  

“I’m sorry, Gaston,” LeFou whimpered as he dabbed at his eyes against Gaston's shirt. “I didn’t mean to ruin your beautiful morning.”

Gaston tried to understand what he was talking about. Did the teacup he broke have some meaning to it that Gaston was unaware of? “It’s alright, my love, it’s only a teacup. I’ll buy you as many as you like to replace it next time we’re in Paris.”

A soft laugh, mixed with a sob, came from LeFou’s lips. “No…it’s not the teacup, Gaston.” LeFou buried deeper into Gaston’s embrace. The sound of his heartbeat soothed him greatly, along with the bigger man’s strong arms and gentle hands grazing over his covered skin.

LeFou parted from Gaston as he took a breath and attempted to rid his face of tears with his sleeve. Gaston placed a hand on the counter as more distance was created between the two, though he kept a hand against LeFou’s arm as the shorter man tried to gain control over his emotions.

“If it’s not the teacup, what is it?” Gaston asked. “Something has been amiss all day. Have I done something?”

LeFou took a deep, shaky breath. He felt ridiculous now and for some reason, a little better than he had before crying. “No, you haven't done anything wrong. You’re Gaston.” LeFou giggled sheepishly and took Gaston’s opposite hand in his. He looked away when he saw the deeply concerning questions in Gaston’s eyes.

“It’s been a year since our holiday to Paris was interrupted.” LeFou said with a slight shutter. “When my papa convinced the authorities I was mad and...” LeFou hesitated to speak further, hoping he wouldn’t have to.

The dawn of realization came over Gaston like a title wave and he brought a hand to his mouth as his brow furrowed in dark contemplation. LeFou pursed his lips, relieved to have shared it with someone, though he anxiously awaited Gaston’s response.

Gaston shook his head and took a breath, placing a hand on his hip, the other still holding LeFou’s. “How could I have missed that?” He looked at him regretfully. “LeFou, I...” Gaston hesitated. “I should have known.”

LeFou shrugged and subconsciously moved both smaller hands to Gaston’s larger ones. He rubbed his way slowly to his wrists and up his arms. “I didn’t think it mattered. It happened, and it’s over.” LeFou moved his arms around Gaston’s waist, hugging him once more, longing to be closer.  

Gaston kissed LeFou and leaned his cheek against his head as he wrapped his arms entirely around him again, moving his hands over his back until he grew still, just holding him in a close embrace. The two stood quietly for a moment until Gaston spoke. “I am going to make it up to you.” He told LeFou and leaned away enough to take his shoulders, looking passionately into his expressive brown eyes. “Tonight, you are going to forget all about that miserable place.” Gaston brushed a strand of loose hair behind LeFou’s ear.

LeFou gave him a gentle smile. “What are you going to do?”

Gaston could feel LeFou’s spirits already lifting, and he pulled him in for another quick kiss. “Just wait here.” He winked and turned towards the door before LeFou could ask any more questions.

LeFou slipped down onto the stool at the counter. Gaston was the most charming man he’d ever known, and his loyalty was true. How on earth did LeFou ever manage to get so lucky?  

Gaston thought over his plan as he left the cottage. He knew a night out at the tavern might be a little much for LeFou right now in his delicate state of mind, therefore instead of planning a night of loud music and dancing, he went to find the lads. Once they were aware of how LeFou was feeling, all of them would be quickly on board with cheering him up. There was nothing like a bit of fun with your family to make someone feel better.

The summer air filled Gaston’s strong lungs as he inhaled the sweet scent of bread, pine, and flowers. Villeneuve’s distinct summer aroma. The villagers passed by the dozens, tending to their daily business.

“Afternoon, Gaston.” One of the village ladies called as she saw Gaston leaving his cottage.

“Good afternoon, Jane.” Gaston said, nodding to her and the girl's friend, Holly, who stood nearby. “Have either of you by chance seen where my hangers have run off to?” He asked them.

“I believe Jaques and Will are at the smithy stables, we just passed there.” Holly told him.

“Tom and Dick went to the bridge.” A man walking by said, overhearing their conversation. “They walked by with their fishing poles not an hour ago.”

Gaston nodded to the man in thanks and turned back to the women. “Thank you, and good day ladies.” He smiled charmingly and turned towards the hill, going past a few houses in a hurry, not wanting to leave LeFou alone for long. As Gaston approached, he could see the lads in the distance.

Dick was standing a few feet away from Tom as he reeled in a decent size fish. Tom reached to take the fish off the line as Dick held the pole in the air, waiting for Tom to remove it.

“Hello, Captain!” Tom called when he caught sight of Gaston approaching. “What brings you here?” He placed the fish in their net, stocked full of the afternoon’s produce.

“An invitation.” Gaston replied. “LeFou and I would like to have you over for dinner this evening. You don’t have plans do you?”

“For you, Captain, I would cancel any plans.” Tom said with a charming smile, then looked to Dick. “Except for you, of course, Richard.” He said with a wink.

Dick rolled his eyes with a chuckle and looked at Gaston, his expression growing with concern at the look on Gaston’s face. “Is LeFou alright? He seemed a little distracted at breakfast this morning.”

Gaston let out a deep breath before he started. After telling them about the situation and explaining why he wanted to have them all over tonight, the two men were even more willing than before to help provide a distraction for their Lieutenant tonight.

“Is there anything we can bring? Perhaps dinner from the Tavern?” Dick suggested.

“Sounds perfect.” Gaston told Dick and clasped each man on the shoulder. “Thank you, boys, I truly appreciate it. LeFou will be glad to see you again tonight.”

Dick smiled in response, and Tom nodded to the captain. “We will be there half past five.” Tom said.

With that in mind, Gaston made his way back to the cottage to tell LeFou of their plans. If everything worked out the way he wanted it to, he might have his normal, happy LeFou back before the morrow.   

After Gaston left the cottage, LeFou decided a nap was in order. He was more tired than he realized and dozed off quickly against the soft feather pillows, breathing in the familiar scent of his beloved Gaston until he fell to sleep. LeFou woke just enough to feel Gaston getting in bed beside him. He must have been back from wherever he was going.

“You're here.” LeFou whimpered, his eyes remaining closed as he felt Gaston near.

“I thought I might find you here when I saw you weren’t downstairs.” Gaston told him.

“I wanted a nap.” LeFou snuggled deeper into the huntsman’s bare chest. If he wasn’t so tired, he would have been swooning himself into a fit of feelings.  

Gaston gently kissed LeFou’s forehead and rubbed his back, pulling him deeper into sleep. “We can nap here, we don’t have anything to do until the lads come over for dinner this evening.”

Instead of sleeping, Gaston lay next to LeFou and made sure he was getting caught up on the rest he needed. He thought about the incident a year ago and how dreadful it had been. He swore he would never again let LeFou be taken from him.

After Gaston couldn’t stand lying still any longer, he got up, careful not to wake LeFou, and went to change into something appropriate for dinner with the lads. He chose a low cut, red shirt that would be sure to make LeFou blush all evening and a brown waistcoat and black trousers. He fixed his hair, pulled on a pair of boots, and left the room. Now he was going to do something very unordinary indeed.

LeFou woke to find Gaston missing from the bed. He yawned and stretched sleepily. The nap had helped him to feel more refreshed, at least, and he made his way towards the wardrobe to change. “Gaston?” LeFou called, hoping he was within earshot. “Did you say the lads were coming over for...” LeFou stopped when Gaston walked into the room with a basket of sheets and pillowcases. “What...what are you doing?” LeFou burst out a giggle and approached the huntsman. He reached to brush back a part of Gaston’s hair that had fallen forward, that stubborn bit that sometimes refused to stay put.

Gaston set the basket by the wall for washing later. “I’m getting ready for the lads to come by, what are you doing?” Gaston asked as if it were ordinary to see the huntsman doing the feminine side of house chores.

LeFou smiled and kissed his cheek, grazing his hand along the front of his shirt. “Alright, whatever you say, Captain. And...you look dashing as ever.”

Gaston raised an eyebrow, flashing that perfect smile before pressing a kiss to LeFou’s forehead in response. He was glad he seemed to noticed his favourite red shirt. Onto his next task, Gaston stepped out of the room.

He finished the process of changing the bedsheets in two of the guest bedrooms, knowing the lads would likely stay overnight. He wasn't one for these sorts of chores, but he didn’t want LeFou to have to worry about anything. He was just grateful he didn’t have to cook. Gaston finished making the beds and then went to find LeFou, who had just stepped out of the bedroom in a red waistcoat, tan trousers, and a white undershirt. His hair was still down but brushed out neatly, a spare ribbon hanging loosely from his pocket. “I’ll go get the kitchen cleaned up before they get here.” LeFou started down the hall.

“Already done, LeFou.” Gaston said.

LeFou turned to face him. “Really? Alright, I’ll go clean up the living room.”

“That is done too.” Gaston placed his hands on his hips in accomplishment.

LeFou’s eyes widened. “Then what is left to do?” He asked with a delighted smile on his face.

“I can think of something.” Gaston winked.

With a mischievous smirk, LeFou bit his bottom lip. “Your wish is my command, Captain.” He beamed. His face grew warm once again.  

Just before the lads came over, LeFou couldn’t seem to keep himself out of the kitchen. He set the table for seven and was just finishing up when Gaston went to answer the door.

“Good evening, fine gentlemen.” Will said with a smile, and entered first, with Jaques by his side. Stanley was always the quiet one of the group and stuck close by Tom and Dick as they walked into the cottage.

“Evening, boys.” Gaston said before going to his chair by the fireplace. LeFou sighed dreamily at the sight of him, magnificent as ever.

“How are you feeling, LeFou?” Dick asked as he approached him, setting a large basket he carried on the table. “Gaston told us you could use some cheering up.

LeFou looked down for a moment. “I’m assuming he told you why.”

Dick reached out and touched his arm gently. “You know we're here for you, just like we were then.”

LeFou nodded and glanced up to Gaston, who was talking to the lads by the fire. “I know you are, and I appreciate that. I feel better having everyone here. And Gaston made me feel better about it earlier.” LeFou said as the colour returned to his cheeks.

Dick laughed and put an arm around his friend. “Oh, I see. I’m sure that helped.”

LeFou giggled. “It always does. Gaston is so incredible.”

Dick began to take the food out of the basket. “There will never be another man quite like him, that’s for sure,”

LeFou helped Dick unwrap the food and placed it on dishes in the centre of the table, leaving the linen cloths over it to keep warm until they started.

“Dinner is ready.” LeFou chimed.

“What are we having?” Gaston asked as they came to join them at the dining room table.  

LeFou looked at Gaston. “Roasted lamb, potatoes, bread, and vegetables from the village garden.

“This smells amazing.” Will exclaimed.

Once they all sat down and filled their plates, Gaston began to tell a story about their war days, A particular incident where LeFou had been the one to receive the praise. LeFou blushed at the compliments and turned the conversation back in Gaston’s favour when he told them about another time that Gaston had saved the day. Just one of the other instances he was the hero, LeFou assured them, adding to Gaston’s ego.    

Villeneuve was just starting to quiet down on this warm summer's evening as Gaston brought some ale from his cellar to the kitchen. LeFou was finishing up making popcorn and began setting out the mugs as Stanley told him about his most recent work of art. Everyone but Stanley seemed to believe his art was good enough to make a fortune in Paris.

Tom and Dick busied themselves sorting poker chips and cards onto the table, preparing for their night of games and drinks. Will sat by the fire, watching as Jaques stoked the wood inside the hearth, keeping the blaze going for Gaston while he was getting them drinks.

LeFou bit his bottom lip as he watched Gaston lift the large barrel of ale onto the counter.

“Drinks are ready, boys!” Gaston said. And LeFou began to fill up the mugs.

“Wonderful.” Tom clapped his hands and made his way towards the kitchen. “What is a night with the boys, without drinks?”

“No one ever said it better, my friend.” Gaston agreed. And so the night of family and card games began.

After many drinks and competitive rounds of cards, Will and Jaques began to feel a bit bored. LeFou, naturally, was too busy swooning and fawning over Gaston and his many victories to be anything but highly entertained. That is until Will mischievously flicked a piece of popcorn at him.

LeFou looked up, a bit surprised, and started to giggle. He flicked a piece back at him before glancing at the other lads who didn't notice. Will threw two more at LeFou, to which Jaques added to the fight by throwing a piece at each of them.

Gaston, Tom, and Dick were not aware of the popcorn battle until it was far too late to stop it. It was when Will flicked a piece at Gaston, that everybody stopped what they were doing.

The lads began to giggle as Will flicked yet another piece, on purpose this time, into his face. LeFou covered his mouth with his hand, waiting to see what Gaston would do.

Without a word, Gaston got up, grabbed the bowl, and began throwing handfuls at all of the lads. Tom and Dick just shook their heads with laughter. They all still had so much boy in them. Before long, even LeFou joined in.

“Gaston, stop! We surrender!” LeFou squealed, giggling as he sat back down at the table, feeling his legs go wobbly. He brushed popcorn from his hair and watched as Gaston assumed a new target.

“We never surrender, boys! Not until the captain is defeated!” Will encouraged Stanley and Jaques as they approached.

“Or until all the popcorn is on the floor.” LeFou said as he watched Gaston walk to the kitchen where the primary source of the popcorn was.

Dick chuckled and turned to Tom. “This got out of hand fast.” He said and placed his cards on the table.

Gaston came back from the kitchen with the rest of the popcorn from the stove and walked towards Will, who backed, throwing his defence at the oncoming attacker.

“Now, do you surrender?” Gaston asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Never!” Will yelled and threw the rest of his popcorn at Gaston.

Jaques and Stanley laughed as they watched. “It’s over, Will, you know the Captain always wins.” Stanley giggled, a red hue coming to his cheeks.

Gaston smirked. “You really should listen to your comrade’s son.” He came close enough to dump all the popcorn onto him.

“Alright, alright, I suppose you win then.” Will brushed a piece off of his shoulder. “Congratulations, Captain, the victory is yours,” Will bowed.

“Then where is my trophy?” Gaston asked and set the popcorn down on one of the couches. He placed his hands on his hips.

LeFou gasped and nearly fell out of his chair on the way over to Gaston. He took his arm to keep his balance as he spoke to him.

“What is it, LeFou?” Gaston asked with a laugh, suddenly noticing how beautiful his excited, dark amber eyes were.

“We should give you a trophy!” LeFou beamed.

Gaston brushed back some of LeFou’s soft hair. “Then make me a trophy, LeFou, and I will hang it on my wall with the rest.”

LeFou began to think and looked to the lads. “I have an idea!” He squeaked and went upstairs to find a needle and thread. Gaston watched curiously along with Tom and Dick and sat down at the couch near the fire. The other lads soon joined him as they waited for LeFou to come back.

“No one's as brave as Gaston! Causes pain like Gaston!” LeFou sang as he came back down the stairs. “Then goes tromping around wearing boots like Gaston!”

Gaston raised an eyebrow as he looked towards his faithful companion. “LeFou, what are you doing?” He asked as LeFou picked up random pieces of popcorn from off the floor.

“I’m gathering the pieces I need to make your trophy, Gaston. You can hang it on the wall when I’m done.” He ran over to sit beside Gaston.”

Gaston gave a humoured look to the lads. LeFou intended to slip the popcorn onto a string as they did at Christmas, but it seemed he was too drunk to get the string into the needle in the first place. In frustration, LeFou finally gave up and set the needle and thread aside with a pout.

“It’s alright, LeFou.” Gaston promised him. “Here, feed me my trophy.” He said and opened his mouth.

LeFou giggled at that and began to put the pieces he held into his mouth, one by one, as he began to sing the Gaston song once more.

If a distraction is what LeFou needed, that is exactly what he got. As the evening wound down, everyone snuggled with their partners by the warm fire, feeling the cool summer breeze coming in through the window. Soon they began to drift off or find a place to rest for the night, as LeFou was far too unorganized this time to show everyone to the guest bedrooms himself.

Stanley was the last asleep, cuddled up on the couch with his lovers. Tom and Dick, being the sensible ones that they were, got up and went to find the guest bedroom upstairs so they could sleep in a proper bed. LeFou later reminded himself to wash the bedsheets after that night.

As the last of the candlelight began to fade into the night, Gaston pulled an exhausted, happy LeFou down onto the bear rug by the fire and allowed him to use his body as a pillow.

“I love you, LeFou,” Gaston nuzzled him, pulling him closer as the dying flames in the hearth began to lull him into sleep. “Sleep soundly, and have very good dreams tonight.” He said with a yawn.

Though LeFou was far too tired to respond, he must have heard what Gaston said because he did indeed sleep soundly and had no bad dreams.

With the year anniversary behind him, fading into the background just like the horrors he saw at the madhouse, LeFou was able to put it in the past that night. He knew that no matter what, with his loyal family surrounding him, he had a great and wonderful future ahead, and the secrets they shared would stay behind the walls of Gaston’s cottage, for only them to see.

The End

Chapter Text

The Red Stag

Gaston jumped over the fallen tree with the amount of grace that equalled any stag. He ploughed his way through the thick brush, ignoring the sting of branches against his cheeks as he chased his prey through the unforgiving forest. His determination was enough to scare any living thing out of his path. He knew he couldn’t keep up this pace for much longer. The stag could run faster and harder than him. A glimpse of fur flashed from behind a tree and out of sight again. Rethinking his tactics, Gaston slowed to a stop. He stood hidden behind a tree, catching his breath. Once the deer calmed down, it would stop, probably at the nearest stream to drink. Then, he would track the stag and catch it when it least expected him. Gaston rested his crossbow against the tree and glanced back in the direction where LeFou should be following. He hadn’t expected him to keep up, but now that the adrenalin was dying, he wondered how far behind LeFou really was.

LeFou hurried after Gaston, being careful to avoid the branches and thistles as best he could. If he just kept going straight, he would find Gaston, although if he didn’t, it wouldn’t take long for Gaston to find him. The little man pulled himself up and over a fallen tree and made his way through the forest. He expected to hear a gunshot from Gaston’s pistol at some point, but it never came. He looked down at the ground, noticing Gaston’s large bootprints leading him to where the huntsman would be. LeFou applauded himself for being reasonably good at tracking. Of course, it might have had something to do with the fact that the earth was still soft from the recent rain. LeFou ducked underneath a heavy cluster of tree branches and caught himself before nearly stumbling over a thick root sticking out of the ground.

Gaston scanned the trees until his eyes found LeFou, who was just walking out from behind a group of large oak trees.

“Aww.” LeFou said with a pout. “You didn’t catch him?”

Gaston furrowed his brow and looked back in the direction where the stag ran away. “No, LeFou. But I’m not done yet. This hunt has just begun.”

LeFou nodded in admiration. “You’ll catch him, Gaston.”

“I know LeFou.” Gaston couldn’t help but smile at how cute LeFou looked, his curly hair slipping from its ribbon and his cheeks flushed. Rain in the air always made his hair curlier. A trait LeFou wasn't overly fond of. “Can you keep up?” Gaston asked with a playful smirk.

LeFou laughed, finally catching up with Gaston. He placed a hand on his firm chest. “Keep up with you? Never.”

Gaston grinned and clasped his friend’s shoulder. “You’re the best, my love.” Dashing away, Gaston started into the forest once again.

LeFou smiled happily and took a tired breath before hurrying after the huntsman.   

After tracking for nearly another hour, Gaston and LeFou came upon a hilly part of the forest, with a steep cliff leading down into a ravine below. There stood the stag, raking its antlers up against a tall tree. LeFou looked to Gaston in surprise as they hid behind the trees. This was the first time he had seen the deer they were hunting.

The stag was huge. A large, reddish brown body, pronounced by thick muscles and smooth skin. Thin antlers curved and reached up to nearly four feet above its head. LeFou didn’t speak, too afraid of scaring away Gaston’s magnificent prize. Instead, he watched the huntsman raise his crossbow and hold his breath.

Before Gaston could release the arrows, the stag had already walked out of view behind some thick brush. Gaston pursed his lips in frustration and lowered his crossbow. There they waited in silence for another ten minutes as the stag continuously walked in all the wrong places, just out of reach of Gaston’s target point. It was as if the beast knew what they were up to.

Upon more waiting, the stag turned and started down the ravine, too far away and hidden by trees to reach it. LeFou watched as Gaston began his descent down the steep hill, making his way closer to the stag as quietly as he could. He used the trees as shields to stay out of the deer’s viewpoint and avoided the more slippery parts of the hill and branches.

Gaston didn’t want to make too much noise and alert the prey. Unfortunately, it was just barely too much noise, and the stag took off into the forest. Gaston cursed as it ran beyond viewpoint.

LeFou stepped closer, holding onto the nearest tree limb on top of the dangerous looking hill. Before he could speak, Gaston charged forward.

With a sharp crack from underneath Gaston’s weight, LeFou watched in horror as he was entirely swept off his feet. The momentum sent him slipping down the hill. He remained out of control until he managed to grab at the earth hard enough to stop himself from falling any further. A roar came from Gaston’s lips, one of frustration and obvious pain. The arrows from his quiver scattered across the forest floor.

“Gaston!” LeFou cried out and reached a hand forward. “I… I’m coming!” He said as he started down the hill.   

Gaston looked up from where he lay, covered in dirt and leaves. “No!” He yelled at LeFou through grit teeth. He looked behind him for a moment to see the stag was indeed long gone now. “I’ll come back up!” He reassured him, not wanting LeFou to take the risk of hurting himself as well. He shouldn’t have taken this steep, rock covered hill so fast. He knew it, but he didn’t want to fail. Gaston considered trying to go down to retrieve his arrows but decided he had plenty more at home.

LeFou froze in obedience and watched as Gaston drug himself up the hill, his face scrunched up in pain and determination. “Keep going, Gaston! You’re doing great!” LeFou yelled, wishing he could do more. If only they had brought a rope.

Gaston pulled himself up higher and higher through the roots and branches, favouring one leg considerably more than the other. He was almost there and managed to pull himself up onto his knees before standing against a tree, just out of LeFou’s reach.

He inched forward and hissed through his teeth when he tried to put too much pressure on his left foot. Gaston cursed and managed to get a little closer as LeFou stretched a hand out to him.

With a struggle, LeFou helped Gaston to the top, only long enough for them to both fall into the grass beside the hill. Gaston let out a pained groan as LeFou pulled himself up from beside him.

“Gaston, you're hurt!” LeFou went to pull up the leg of his trousers to take a look.

The Huntsman breathed out a laugh mixed with pain. “Oh, LeFou.” Gaston was unable to imagine the sight it must have been when he fell.

LeFou looked to Gaston for a moment, his face covered in dirt and a scrape above his brow. His clothes were filthy, he was hurt, and all he could do now was press his hand to his face and let out a laugh.

“It’s not funny.” LeFou scolded him. “You could have been seriously hurt! Now let me see your foot.” LeFou shook his head and returned to lifting the material around Gaston’s leg.

Gaston grunted from the pain as LeFou pulled off his boot. He cursed as the adrenalin started to leave his body, and the pain grew worse. “He got away.” He told LeFou miserably. “He was so beautiful too, LeFou. Didn’t you see him?”

LeFou winced when he saw the horrible bruising and swelling around Gaston’s ankle. “You sprained your ankle.” He knew immediately.

“Then I suppose going on is out of the question.” Gaston scowled at the trees above him. He growled as LeFou pulled the material back down around his ankle.

Despite LeFou’s best attempts, Gaston still groaned from the pain as he put his boot back on with delicacy.

LeFou looked at Gaston with love in his eyes. “Yes my mighty hunter, a bit out of the question. But don’t worry. We’ll come back and find him when you are done healing.”

“He’ll be long gone by then.” Gaston groaned.  

“If anyone could still find him you could, Gaston.” LeFou began to help him off the ground. With a grunt, he swung Gaston’s arm around his shoulders, supporting the left side of his body. “Come on, the horses aren’t far.”

Gaston knew there was no sense in arguing. If ever he was hurt or sick, LeFou immediately went into mother bear mode and became relentless with his love and care. Though Gaston didn’t want to appear weak, he still secretly liked it when LeFou took care of him. But this time, all he could think about was that stag running into the forest, further away from him.

Gaston griped and groaned all the way back through the forest until they reached the horses. LeFou was grunting as well by the time they got back. Gaston could support about half his weight, but he couldn’t put much pressure on his left foot at all without pain shooting through him, and despite LeFou’s protests, he had tried several times.

Gaston growled against the throbbing in his ankle as he pulled himself on top of his horse, though all he wanted to do was continue the hunt.

“You know we could hunt by horse. I really am starting to feel better already.” Gaston considered the challenge and thought better of it. His horse would likely hurt himself if he couldn’t find another way around the ravine.

LeFou, who had already mounted his horse, widened his eyes in disbelief. “With the noises you're making? Gaston, you can’t even stand on that leg.”

Gaston’s mouth turned into a pout. “I can… a little.” He gave a look of frustration as LeFou rode past him, clearly done with the conversation. He could, of course, just turn around and do it on his own, but… that would require leaving LeFou.

Gaston grit his teeth through the ride home, the bumps and jostle from the horse causing his ankle to throb with pain. He stayed quiet for the most part, save for the occasional groan in which LeFou looked towards him with concern in his eyes. “I’m fine.” Gaston snapped, though he could tell it was most certainly sprained.

The two of them rode side by side into Villeneuve, Gaston putting on a face to hide the pain he was in as they rode up to the cottage. He slid off his horse, avoiding touching the ground with his injured foot. He was grateful for LeFou when he was right there beside him.

“Thank you, LeFou.” Gaston said warmly, as the smaller man pushed open the gate. This brought on a few unwanted stares from the villagers as Gaston did his best to wave it off, but it was no use.

“Even the mightiest hunters get hurt sometimes, Gaston.” LeFou reminded him.

Gaston frowned. “Yes, you're right, LeFou.” He took a step forward onto his good leg, then put a little pressure on the other. The pain was just as bad as it had been in the forest. He winced through his teeth as they proceeded.

LeFou sighed in frustration at the man who was trying far too hard to do it all on his own. He pulled his arm closer around him to help him walk less painfully.

“LeFou, Gaston, what happened?” LeFou heard a voice and turned to see Will running up to the fence where they stood.

“I um…” Gaston started to respond but was cut off with a growl as the ability to put any pressure on that foot sent pain through him. It was just a sprained ankle, he cursed to himself.

LeFou looked sympathetically to Will, who seemed relatively concerned. “He did something to his ankle.” LeFou told him.

“Boys, I’m alright.” Gaston tried to tell them, but Will only lifted Gaston’s other arm around his shoulders to help.

“I know, but we’re here for you, captain.” Will said as they started helping him towards the front door of the cottage.

The two plopped Gaston down onto the couch and winced as the huntsman growled from the sharp stabbing in his ankle. “Nothing to worry about.” Gaston assured them when they looked annoyingly concerned.

“It’s when he brushes it off that you know it’s something to be worried about.” LeFou informed Will. “I’m going to make him something for the pain. Would you fetch the doctor? Gaston won’t be seen admitting he’s capable of injury.” LeFou said cutely.

Gaston glared at LeFou and then turned to Will. “Tell the doctor I’m perfectly fine and do not need any assistance.”

“Yes, sir.” Will chuckled as he walked towards the door. LeFou and Gaston were starting to sound like Tom and Dick. He glanced at LeFou before he left, who was silently telling him not to listen to a word Gaston had just said. Will left the cottage in search of the doctor.

Gaston growled as LeFou helped him get his legs up onto the couch. “I’m sorry, my love.” LeFou kissed him on the head before hurrying to the kitchen. After putting on some water to boil, he went upstairs to get a blanket and pillow from Gaston’s bed, along with some clean clothes. “How do you feel?” LeFou asked when he got back.

“Like my foot is being slowly pounded to death.” He finally admitted. “Other than that, it hardly hurts at all.” Gaston smiled cheekily through the pain.

LeFou let out a breath through his nose and placed a hand on Gaston’s shoulder, prompting him to lean forward. LeFou set the pillow behind his back and brushed a stray leaf out of his hair. “Let’s get these dirty clothes off.” LeFou said, and Gaston frowned. Hardly the most ideal situation for taking off clothes.

“Oh, LeFou.” Gaston whined and started unbuttoning his waistcoat. “I can get my own clothes off, you know.” He pulled it off, along with his shirt. LeFou did his best not to swoon over how attractive Gaston was and went to get a basin of water and a rag as Gaston unbuttoned his trousers. When LeFou returned, Gaston managed to get his trousers down to his ankles.

LeFou set down the basin on the end table and helped him get his trousers off the rest of the way. He winced along with Gaston as he observed how terrible his ankle looked. “It’s definitely sprained.” He took the wet cloth from the basin.

Gaston leaned back against the pillow. “It feels like it.”

LeFou laid the blanket over Gaston to cover his beautiful body. It was best that he not be distracted and started dabbing at the huntsman’s face, neck, and chest until all the dirt was removed. He cleaned up any cuts or scrapes to be found and then brought Gaston some tea with herbs to help with the pain.

LeFou undid Gaston’s hair from its ribbon and gently massaged his fingers against his scalp, relaxing him as he drank his tea. He removed another small leaf from his hair and sorted out the tangles with his fingers. Oh, how adorable Gaston looked right now, stretched out underneath the fur blanket.

When LeFou heard someone walking up the porch steps, he went to open the door.

“Good evening.” Bernard said as he walked inside. “It looks as though you have already taken care of him, LeFou.” The doctor said with a smile and turned to Gaston. “Sorry about your accident, captain. Which leg is it?”

LeFou hurried to Gaston and pulled the blanket away from the injured leg. “It’s sprained.” LeFou said, and after a short examination, he found he was right. Those five years of treating soldiers must have done him some good.

The doctor wrapped Gaston’s ankle and gave LeFou the order to keep him inside for two weeks at least. Gaston complied grudgingly and looked to LeFou after the front door was closed. “Two weeks? I’ll go mad.” Gaston said in annoyance.

LeFou rubbed his arm and kissed the side of his face. “I know, I know, but you’ll have me the whole time.”

Gaston’s frown turned into a full out pout, and he let out an exhausted breath as he accepted the terms. “Yes, at least I have you, LeFou.”

LeFou hummed happily and went back to the kitchen to make Gaston dinner. When Gaston woke an hour later, his ankle had gone from stabbing pain to a dull throb. What would he do without LeFou’s herb recipes?

LeFou brought a chair beside him so they could sit and eat their potato soup together. Soon they were laughing about how today had reminded them so fondly of their time at war. And also of their boyhood.

That night Gaston slept on the couch, which was just big enough for LeFou to curl up beside him, nearly on top of his chest. In the morning, Gaston finally agreed to use the walking stick the doctor had left for him. To climb the stairs on his own. He stopped using it of course, the first moment he possibly could.

Gaston may not have caught the great red stag this time, but at least he had his caring, loyal companion. LeFou really was the very best.

The End

Chapter Text

Good To Be Home

Gaston took in his surroundings like he was seeing it all for the first time. Lanterns pierced through the darkness around the tavern. The cobblestone paths that made up the streets of Villeneuve were alive with the flicker of light. The place where he was born. An early spring air still held a bit of winter’s bite as the cold brushed his cheeks. He looked back to see LeFou hurrying to catch up from behind.

“Sorry, I got distracted. I keep forgetting how beautiful it is here at night. Everything is so fresh and new.” LeFou said as they made their way towards Gaston’s cottage.

Gaston smiled fondly. “I know, after four months, I thought we would be used to home by now. But it still surprises me that we're back. And yet, so much has changed.”

LeFou smiled and took the Captain’s hand in his. It was dark, and there were few people out of their homes this time in the evening. No one would care if they saw, he hoped. After all, they had just survived five years at war together. They were bound to be close. “What did you think of our first council meeting?” LeFou asked happily, his cheeks rosy.

Gaston squeezed LeFou’s hand as they walked through the shadows underneath the familiar buildings. “My father always told me I would be on the council when I was older. He said, one day, Gaston, you’ll be a leader. People will look to you for guidance. And you must always be the best man you can be, so when that day comes, you can lead them into the next generation.” Gaston said with a thoughtful sigh. “If he could see us now. As a lad, I always thought the council meetings were horribly boring.”

LeFou giggled warmly. “And now?”

Gaston raised an eyebrow. “Boring still, but I can see why they are important now that I’ve had a taste of military order. The type of discipline they train into you at war. And everything is so different now that we’re back. People look at me differently, too. I’m not just a boy anymore, LeFou. I am the son and heir of Marshal Gustave. I have my own titles and reputation. And they’re all starting to admire me for it.” Gaston touched his chin in thought.

LeFou clung a little tighter to Gaston as they passed his old cottage and the smithy. The two places he sometimes wished he could forget. “You’re a war hero, Gaston. And an incredible hunter and leader, naturally they would admire you.” LeFou tried to focus only on Gaston to distract himself.

Gaston felt the way LeFou grew tense when they walked by the street with LeFou’s worst memories. “You are also incredible. An important member of this village. A Lieutenant. My Lieutenant.” Gaston’s voice held the tone of comfort.

LeFou let out a breath, his heart warmed by Gaston’s words. “My papa never had any important titles like that.”  

Gaston scoffed. “Well, you’re not your father. You don’t give yourself enough credit LeFou. You didn’t think you would survive the war. But you did.”

LeFou pulled his coat closer around his body as they walked. “Because of you.” He said thoughtfully. “There were times I didn’t think I would survive my childhood. Much less war.”

Gaston pursed his lips and wrapped his arm around LeFou as they made their way up to his cottage. “You’re a survivor, my friend.” Gaston opened the gate.

LeFou was quiet as they walked down the path to Gaston’s front door. The site of it made him smile as they entered the living quarters. The gleam from the fireplace glistened against the wood floors and the pine furniture. “Would you like some tea?” LeFou offered.

Gaston took off his red coat and draped it over the armchair by the fire. “I’m so tired I think I could sleep without it.”

LeFou hung up his coat and went to the kitchen to light a lantern on the counter. “It can’t hurt. We have a big day tomorrow fixing the roof of the stables.”

Gaston shrugged in agreement and sat down in his chair. About a week after they returned from the war, Gaston and LeFou started having nightmares. If Gaston wasn’t the one having the nightmare, he was kept up by LeFou, who was.

Gaston recalled his father used to drink certain teas for when he had trouble sleeping and recommended it to LeFou when he was a boy. Since Gaston didn’t know anything much about tea preparation, or more so preferred his Lieutenant do it for him, LeFou was the one to make the tea. LeFou purchased all the right leaves with Gaston’s money and seemed to know just what to do with them. Thyme and mint were the most efficient, next to lavender and chamomile. Gaston preferred the Thyme over the two more feminine alternatives. Valerian root did wonders.

Gaston glanced towards LeFou. The other man looked perfect in his kitchen. He belonged here, in this cottage. With a fond smile, he stared into what was left of the fire from before their evening out. How could anyone not love him?

“Thank you, LeFou.” Gaston said when LeFou returned with the tea. The cup was hot to the touch.  

LeFou sat down in his chair next to Gaston’s and blew gently at the steaming beverage. “You’re welcome. I made thyme and lavender for the extra chance of a good night’s rest.” He smiled, ever adorable.

Gaston nodded his approval and sipped at the hot drink before it was ready, hissing slightly as the heat burnt his mouth before he blew on it again.

LeFou stared into the fire as he blew lightly on his tea. The warmth, smell of lavender, and lull of the flames made him sleepy as his mind wandered through the events of the past few months. “The lads have all grown up now.” LeFou mentioned. “They were still in school when we left for the war. Stanley looks like a man now.”

Gaston took another sip of his tea. “Five years does a lot at that age. Turns a boy into a man.” Gaston said with a reminiscent tone in his voice.

LeFou hummed as he ran his fingers over the warm teacup. “I wonder if Stanley will be at the workday tomorrow to help repair the roof.”

“I don’t see why not. He was there at the meeting tonight with his father.” Gaston said with a yawn that seemed to sneak up on him.

LeFou hummed. “I know, I noticed.” He said with a sigh. “I never liked his father.”

“I never did either.” Gaston let a breath escape his lips. “He was too strict. No one liked him growing up. I used to feel bad for Stanley, he always seemed afraid of him.”

LeFou nodded. “I imagine he and Papa used to share stories and placed bets on whose son was more of a disappointment.” He chuckled to break the tension of his statement.

Gaston reached over and took LeFou’s hand. “You are not a disappointment, LeFou.”

LeFou rubbed his fingers over Gaston’s bigger hand. “I’m glad you don’t think so.” He said with a hum in his voice. “I think I’m ready for bed. I want to be at my best tomorrow, so I can get up early and make breakfast before we go.”

Gaston smiled fondly. “All right, off to bed then, shall we?” He got up, taking LeFou’s teacup to the kitchen for him, along with his own. LeFou made his way upstairs to get into his nightdress, and Gaston soon joined him.

Though it was a little too cold upstairs for being without clothes, Gaston still stripped down to his breeches and slipped underneath the fur and velvet blankets. LeFou joined him in his white woollen nightdress and snuggled deep into Gaston’s arms, forgetting everything but the man he so adored. “You're so warm Captain, and I’m so cold.” LeFou squeaked, the cold making him playful.

“You’re the one wearing wool.” Gaston teased and held him closer to keep him warm, rubbing gentle circles into his back.

“Do you want me to get you a shirt?” LeFou asked and sat up from within Gaston’s arms, allowing a burst of cool air to enter their warmth under the thick blankets.

Gaston pulled LeFou back down with a chuckle. “No, LeFou, stay here with me.” He kissed the crook of his neck, pulling the blankets over their heads once again. LeFou squeaked and wrapped his arms around Gaston’s neck.

“Besides, who needs clothes when I have you.” Gaston placed gentle kisses down his neck to his collarbone. “I won’t get cold at all.” He continued down to his chest.

LeFou hummed through the sensations as Gaston’s mouth and hands worked their magic. “Oh, Gaston, you’re so...” He stopped speaking, unable to continue.

“So what, LeFou?” Gaston asked him, finding it pleasurable that he was causing LeFou to fall weak in his mind as his body’s senses took over.

“So attractive, so wild. You’re the man among men and the hero and...” LeFou couldn’t think anymore as Gaston continued to tease him.

“I adore you, LeFou.” Gaston breathed against his skin, a smile on his face. Here he was truly in heaven.  

LeFou woke up tangled in the sheets that covered the spacious bed. Gaston had already gone out and left him to sleep longer. A happy hum left his mouth as he got out of bed, pulling a blanket around him to fight some of the early morning chill.

He passed the hall into his bedroom to get dressed and ready for another day with Gaston. LeFou had always slept in later than the Huntsman. Though ever since the war, he was almost always up soon after Gaston to make breakfast.

There was something about waking up in the same bed as Gaston and starting the day by serving the man his eggs. What a powerful thought. Eggs made Gaston strong. LeFou gave Gaston eggs every morning now that his father was gone. Did that mean LeFou made Gaston strong?

Or perhaps it was the sense of domestication in their relationship that LeFou loved, though they seemed more like a newly married couple last night than a domesticated one. LeFou blushed at the thought. He had never been comfortable with his body, and the way he lost himself with Gaston in bed was something he never expected of himself. However, it was certainly something he could get used to.

When LeFou got downstairs, he found the stove with a blazing fire set beneath the cole black iron. Gaston had already been there to light it and the fireplace in the dining room. Busily he got to work, oiling the iron skillets and setting the bacon and breaking eggs.

Gaston could always smell breakfast from the chimney coming out of the house in the early mornings, so he knew when LeFou had breakfast nearly ready. His heavy boots tromped across the wood floor as he entered the cottage from the back porch.

“Good morning, LeFou.” Gaston couldn’t help but admire how attractive LeFou looked today in his brown and red coat and red ribbons. Why was he so beautiful?  

“Good morning, Gaston.” LeFou said with a glance. He began taking the food to the table. “You look handsome in your red braces this morning. You always have, since we were boys.” LeFou sighed at the sweet memories.

Gaston took the bowl of grapes and set it on the table. “I had to loosen the straps when we got back. It seems I’ve grown a lot in the last five years.” He said matter of factly.

Gaston picked up a grape, holding it in front of his partner. LeFou opened his mouth, and Gaston threw it inside without missing.

LeFou blushed and pulled out his chair. “You have, and who knows, maybe you’ll keep growing. Not that you need to.” He giggled happily.

Gaston sat down at the head of the table, right next to LeFou, and started with his eggs first as he always did. And an occasional sip of black coffee. Something he had started drinking at war.

“Are we heading over to the stables right after breakfast?” LeFou asked.

Gaston glanced towards the window. The sun was just rising higher. The last of the fog would be lifting from the meadows just as they sat down together now. “I should be going there soon. As leader of the village, it’s important to announce my presence first.”

LeFou smiled warmly. “Your father would be proud, Gaston.”

“I very much hope so.” Gaston took a final bite of his eggs. He stared contemplatively at the wall as the sun’s light crossed in golden hues.

There were still some times he could almost see his father in the sunlight, walking across the kitchen on his way to leave the cottage for important work. Or placing breakfast on the table before him. Gaston missed him fiercely. Losing him had been harder than war. And now, he must take his place as protector of their people.

“What are you thinking about, honey?” LeFou asked sweetly.

Gaston raised an eyebrow. He could always tell. “I want to do this right, LeFou.” He took a sip of coffee and then began with his bacon. “War was war. Anyone can do that. But this,” Gaston gestured to the front door. “Taking care of the entire village on my own. I have to do it right.”

“I’m not sure just anyone can do war.” LeFou said sweetly. “You could though. And you can do this too. And you are not alone, you have me.”

Gaston nodded, a smile coming to his face. He didn’t dare think about it any longer or his spirits would dampen. “Yes, I do have you. Together we could do anything.” He began to finish the last of his breakfast. “I don’t know about you, but I am excited for this day. Working with our hands, out in the village with the other lads, doing something for the good of us all.” Gaston stood up from the table with authority.

LeFou giggled. “And I cannot wait to watch you up there on that roof, Gaston. Just don’t fall.” LeFou said with a touch of concern.

Gaston laughed, an edge of disbelief in his tone. “I am not going to fall, LeFou.”

LeFou finished his breakfast and got up to start cleaning after breakfast. In a hurry, he got his coat and followed Gaston to the front door.

They walked side by side through the village as they always had. The air was still cool, yet it grew warmer with the rising sun. They arrived at the stables beside the tavern just before everyone else started showing up.

“Bonjour, Captain! And Lieutenant!” Tom approached with Dick and Stanley beside him. Will and Jaques were close behind, making their way to the stables as they discussed something quietly.

Gaston was glad Stanley’s father wasn’t here. Tom was much more of a father to him than his blood father could ever be.  

“Bonjour, boys.” Gaston smiled at them. “We picked a good morning for this. It’s almost warm out.” He said as he looked towards the sun.

“Almost.” LeFou chimed from beside him, still cold inside his coat. “Maybe someone will bring hot cocoa.”

Gaston put his arm around LeFou. “You’ll warm up, Lieutenant.” He told him, rubbing his arms. “Just wait till I’m up on that roof.” He whispered so only LeFou could hear that last bit.

LeFou’s cheeks turned pink, and he giggled playfully. “I look forward to it, Captain.”

“I tried to convince Thomas that he is too old to be up on that roof. But he won’t listen.” Dick gave Tom a narrowed look.

“I’ll be too old when I’m sixty or seventy, Richard. I’m still just as young as I ever was.” Tom insisted.

“Young men fall to their death from roofs all the time.” Dick looked up to the top of the roof. “And at your age.”

“Don’t worry Dick, I’ll take care of Tom up there.” Will swung an arm over Jaques’s shoulder. “And he has the Captain too.”

Dick raised his eyebrow. “Oh, I know. It’s just my job to worry.”

“You do a good job of it.” Tom teased him.

Stanley stood quietly next to Will and Jaques. “

Tom nudged Gaston, who was previously too occupied playing around and flirting with LeFou to notice all the villagers coming up to help with the workday. “They’re waiting for your command, Captain.” Tom said softly.

Gaston glanced at the villagers as nostalgia came back to him. It wasn’t so long ago that his father stood in this very spot, as leader of the village. Now it was Gaston in his stead. The people looked to him now.

Gaston was used to being a Captain at war, but being back in Villeneuve made him feel young again at heart again. If he closed his eyes, he might be able to see his father walking out of the tavern to the stables or feel his strong hand on his shoulder, praising him for his latest accomplishment or instructing him with wisdom.

Gaston cleared his throat to shake off the nostalgia and picked up a hammer from a wheelbarrow. “Ready, men?” He asked and approached the latter.

“Ready Captain!” The men replied.

Gaston gave them their orders and started to climb the latter of the stables. Before he reached the top, he turned to look down at LeFou. He smiled when they made eye contact and winked in his direction. LeFou’s reaction was enough to give him all the bolstering he needed. Now it was time to get this roof repaired.    

As morning turned to noon, the sun warmed up the little village. The first signs of spring were beginning to peek through the air. The golden rays beat down upon the boys who worked on top of the roof, making them hot outside for the first time that year. Gaston was the first to take his braces and shirt off, prompting a few others to do the same.

LeFou swooned as he watched the captain work. Gaston’s sweaty muscles glistening in the sunlight made his heart flutter. He noticed Stanley taking particularly long glances towards Will and Jaques in a way that LeFou understood. Until at last, Jaques went back up to join the other lads on the roof. Perhaps LeFou wasn’t as alone as he thought in this village.

To LeFou’s delight, one of the ladies brought hot cocoa from her house to serve the women and children who began to come in around the stables for lunch.

“This is delicious, Emma!” LeFou told the village lass. “What do you put in it?” He asked, hoping he could recreate the drink for Gaston.

“I’ll give you the recipe.” Emma smiled happily. “It’s easy to make if only you can come by the cocoa powder. My father brought us a few sacks of it from Paris last time he went.”

LeFou took another sip of his cocoa. “How sweet that you shared it with everyone.”

Emma watched as the village children played around the buildings and the well. “We’re all family here. I am happy to share our hot cocoa, LeFou.”

LeFou smiled warmly and hummed. “We are a family. All of us.” He looked up to the roof. “And there is our leader right there.”

LeFou giggled as Gaston stood up on the very top of the roof, swiping back his raven hair. And that stray bit that always fell forward into his face.

Emma blushed and tilted her head, watching the huntsman as well. She turned back to LeFou and touched his arm. “I am so glad you’re both back.” She beamed, before going to join the other ladies in the preparation of lunch.  

When the time came for the noonday mean, Gaston climbed down from the roof. He walked towards LeFou, whose eyes couldn’t seem to sway from his chiselled chest.

“Is there something wrong, my friend?” Gaston teased and swung an arm around his shoulders.

LeFou blushed madly at the public gesture, the bare chested man so close he could feel the hair on his chest against his cheek. “Nothing at all. Lunch is ready.” His words seemed to spill out in a high pitched tone as the blood rushed to his cheeks.

Gaston pulled away from LeFou regretfully and put his shirt back on. He could feel the end of winter’s chill now that he was off the sunny roof.

“If you say so, Lieutenant.” Gaston winked before turning to the tables full of food. The only thing that looked as delicious as LeFou. As he walked away from the shorter man, his hand found the back of him for merely a second.

LeFou’s hue turned a darker shade of pink. He giggled quietly, composing himself as the Captain walked away.

“Hello, ladies. What a lovely lunch you have here.” Gaston flashed a charming smile.

LeFou approached from behind, his hands behind his back, cheeks still warm from the feelings Gaston gave him. “Almost as lovely as you.” He whispered.

By the end of the day, the roof of the stables was complete. An accomplishment Gaston boasted about with the other men as LeFou watched from beside him as he always did. To LeFou, no place was better.

“Tavern, Captain?” LeFou asked when Gaston turned to him. He knew Gaston would choose that as his next destination, as it would take far too long to make dinner by this time in the evening.

“Sounds perfect. I wonder what they are making tonight.” Gaston started in that direction. He put his arm around LeFou, breathing a content sigh as a gust of wind brushed through his messy hair.

“I noticed something this evening.” LeFou said thoughtfully, now that they were out of earshot of any villagers.

“Oh?” Gaston asked, interested in his observation.

“Stanley, he seems... different.” LeFou started, thinking about the way he was so close to Jaques and Will. “I believe he might be... like us.” He was afraid to say much more than that without the protection of Gaston’s cottage walls around them.

“Like us, how?” Gaston asked as they walked.

LeFou took Gaston’s arm. “You know... they care about each other. A lot.

Gaston looked to LeFou with wide eyes. “Oh.” He responded as it dawned upon him. “If that is true, then we are not alone, LeFou.”

LeFou nodded as they entered the bustling tavern. It was alive with chatter and music from the band. “I’ll get our food and ale.”

Gaston nodded in response and found his chair by the fire. The chair had belonged to his father and grandfather before him. The leader of the village was back at last, and the people seemed more delighted than ever.

Gaston was Villeneuve’s new protector. He sat down and looked around at the faces he remembered from his youth, watching them laugh and talk to friends and family.

During the war, Gaston didn’t know if he would ever see this sight again. The people he loved. The home he so adored. It was real this time, not just the dreams of a homesick soldier late in the night. For once, life was good and pure. After four months back, things were finally starting to feel normal again. It was so good to be home.

The End

Chapter Text

Memoirs Of A Hero

Flames roared in the hearth despite the cold outside. It was getting late into the evening as the two companions sobered up after several pints of ale. Bastian alone remained in the tavern, cleaning up the empty bar and preparing to close for the night. Gaston looked to LeFou, watching the way his smile curved up his mouth and met his auburn eyes. These moments were perfect. Surrounded by the warmth of light that LeFou brought into the room just by sitting there, keeping him company as he always had, since they were young boys. It was on nights like these that made every moment feel like he was living in the middle of a beautiful dream.
Gaston stretched out into his chair, feeling the muscles in his back relax. A yawn escaped his lips, and he noticed how sleepy the rest of the tavern looked, all of the candles dimming around them as they wore down to their end.
“I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for bed.” Gaston said and got up from his chair lazily. LeFou followed, rising from his cushioned stool. “You know LeFou, I could still get you a better chair to sit beside me. One from Paris.”
LeFou began to blush. “You are the Captain, Gaston. You should have the best seat in the tavern.” Truthfully, he just didn’t want the attention drawn to him. Gaston loved the praise and attention. LeFou would rather sit quietly in the corner, unnoticed.
“Yes...but you're my right hand man, LeFou. You deserve to sit with the best. In a chair made for the best.”
“You are the man among men. That is your throne, Gaston. I’m perfectly content sitting beside you on my stool. Honored in fact.”
Gaston shrugged. It was true. LeFou was content, so why push the matter? Gaston let it go as he always did when he brought it up. “Goodnight, Bastian.” He bid the bartender farewell and pushed open the door, letting in a swirl of loose snow from the outside. A crunch followed with every step as they hurried towards home.
The cold hit LeFou harshly, bringing a soft whimper from his lips as he remembered to pull on his wool knit gloves. It bit at his nose and sunk into his clothes, chilling his bones. LeFou let out a shiver as he followed from beside the huntsman. “It's so cold.” He pulled his coat as tightly around him as he could. A cloud of breath escaped his mouth, made visible by the dim light from the lanterns glowing down the path.
Gaston glanced at the shivering man beside him as they walked towards the cottage. “Just think of the warm fire waiting for us at home.” He encouraged LeFou. Naturally, he was cold as well but much more resilient to the weather.
LeFou only shivered in response and rubbed his gloved hands together, trying to preserve as much heat as possible. Gaston wiped the white fluff from the top part of the gate and lifted the iron latch. He winced as the sting bit his hands. His hands felt nearly frozen against the contact of the icy gate. This winter was noticeably more cold than last.
“You really should have worn gloves tonight, Gaston.” LeFou playfully scolded him as they hurried down the snowy path. “It’s been so dreadfully cold the past few days!”
Gaston hummed miserably in response and took the key from above the door to unlock the house. “I know it wasn’t this bad out when we left this evening. The nights are getting colder.”
LeFou shivered on the porch next to Gaston, waiting to go inside to the warmth of the cottage. The door swung open, and Gaston let LeFou inside first, hurrying to close and lock the door behind them.
LeFou made his way through the dark and reached for the matchbox on top of the mantelpiece. “At least it finally stopped snowing.” LeFou spoke as he lit the lantern hanging on the hook by the stairs.
 Gaston followed LeFou as they made their way up the dark staircase, the lantern as their only guide. When they reached the hall, Gaston went into his bedroom to fetch a second lantern, leaving it to rest on his nightstand. LeFou left the room to change into his warmest nightclothes, whimpering audibly from his bedroom. Gaston took many logs from the wood box beside the hearth, and within five minutes, had a fire going that would keep them warm until morning.
LeFou hurried into the bedroom and sat down on the edge of Gaston’s bed, watching the fire flicker behind the dashing huntsman. Warmth began to sink back into his skin. Gaston removed his clothing only long enough to replace them with his wool nightclothes. The cold air clung to him after the exposure to his skin.
LeFou squeaked as Gaston pounced onto the bed, forcing his head to the pillow as he pulled the blankets out from beneath him. LeFou giggled as they were entangled in the warmth of each other’s embrace, the fur and velvet blankets trapping their body heat in a safe cocoon.
Gaston let out a content sigh, glad to be in bed with the man he so adored. He ran his hands over LeFou’s shoulders and down to his lower back, pulling him in closer by his hips.
A moan escaped LeFou’s lips as the friction built up between them. LeFou ran his hands over Gaston’s chest, entangling his fingers in his chest hair. He slid up until his hands met his raven locks. He generously massaged the other man’s scalp, knowing how much he loved it.
“You could do that all night if you wanted.” Gaston whispered as he relaxed in LeFou’s soft hands.
“I want anything you want.” LeFou said flirtatiously. “And I’ll do anything you want, Captain.”
Gaston pressed his mouth to his, parting LeFou’s lips with his own, exploring the inside of him with his tongue. He pulled the blankets higher around them as he moved in closer, surrounding them both entirely in the passion coursing through them. Although it remained frigid outside, between the two of them, there was no warmer place to be.

Something woke him from his slumber. His mind attempted to decide what it was as his heart pounded fiercely in his chest. Gaston sat up, a blur of light startling him as it crawled up against the nightstand. Fire. Smoke was already filling the air as he leapt out of bed. His instincts guided him just like they had at war, despite his confusion. Quickly he grabbed a pillow to beat out the fire.
A high pitched gasp erupted from LeFou as he woke in the middle of all the chaos. “Gaston!” He yelled, clutching the blankets up to his chest.
Gaston had already begun to beat the fire. “Get water, LeFou!” He yelled at the startled man.
LeFou jumped up, instincts kicking in as he ran out of the room and down the hall to the privy. He grabbed the basin full of water, ignoring the trembling in his hands. LeFou was grateful they had decided to get dressed again after their fun tonight, because of the cold. If they were going to die here they were not going to do it stark naked.
When LeFou returned, Gaston was still beating out the flame, feathers flying everywhere from the whipped pillow into the smoky air. When Gaston saw LeFou he stopped and took the basin, splashing it onto the last of the flame.
LeFou gasped and sat down on the bed, his knees growing incredibly weak. Silence set in between them as their hearts raced together. “How… how on earth...” LeFou stammered and wiped a lock of brown hair out of his face. The sudden events didn’t seem real.  
“I must have... forgotten the light.” Gaston shifted uncomfortably, his feet tingling. He looked down where the shattered glass chimney lay scattered across the floor. That must have been the noise that woke him. As adrenalin faded, the feeling intensified beneath his feet, the signal travelling to his brain, telling him he was hurt. The tingles swayed to intense throbs and he realized what must have happened. He sat down on the bed to release the pressure, sucking in a painful breath. Gaston raised one foot to his other leg to inspect the damage as LeFou crawled over to his side of the bed.
“Gaston, your feet!” LeFou exclaimed and got up from the bed quickly.
Gaston clutched at the sheets as the pain intensified. “Get something on your feet first, LeFou.” He ordered. “Or we’ll both be bleeding.”  
LeFou realized he was right and hurried to put on his slippers. He was so invested in making sure Gaston was alright, that he forgot to think about himself.
Gaston let his leg down gingerly and watched as LeFou crouched down in front of him. “It’s like cannon shrapnel all over again.” Gaston joked with a laugh, to ease LeFou’s worry.
LeFou rolled up his sleeves, wincing at the memory. “At least this time you have very little risk of infection.” He carefully lifted Gaston’s heel in his hand, avoiding the blood and thin gashes in his feet. There were two pieces of bigger glass and a few small ones that would all have to be removed. “You’re going to be alright, Captain.” LeFou said sweetly and looked up to Gaston before taking the other foot to inspect it also.
LeFou got up, his racing heart returning to a normal speed as he regained the air of a soldier’s medic. He placed a cool hand on Gaston’s face and kissed his forehead. “I’ll be right back. I have to get a few supplies.”
Gaston nodded in response and placed his hands on his knees, taking in a breath to clear his head and calm his mind. One thing war taught him was how to handle intense pain. He watched as LeFou hurried from the room, ever the dutiful companion. Gaston adjusted himself against the pillows, allowing his legs to remain off the bed as he waited anxiously for LeFou to return.
LeFou carried a lit candle with him as he walked through the darkness to get everything he needed for Gaston. A washbasin, a pair of long, metal tweezers, several rags, and a cream to fight both infections and help with the pain.
By the time LeFou returned, Gaston had already thought of an explanation as to how the fire started. “I must have knocked the lantern over in my sleep.” He watched LeFou as he set up supplies on the edge of the bed. “I’m sorry LeFou, I should have turned it out.”
LeFou looked up to him sympathetically. He could tell he felt responsible. “It’s alright. You were… otherwise occupied.” He added with a smirk and very carefully lifted Gaston’s legs onto a dark towel. The lighting was dim but at this angle, he could see well enough from the light of the fireplace. Gaston huffed a smile and winced as LeFou took his legs. He looked completely miserable in this state of vulnerability. It might have actually been worse than the pain.
“You were very brave, Gaston.” LeFou said and adjusted himself on the bed. “Putting out the fire like that. And so quickly.”
Gaston leaned an elbow against the pillows and his hand caressed his forehead, distracting himself from the pain. “Thank you, LeFou.” He looked towards his extended legs. “It isn’t all that bad.” He said to convince even himself.
LeFou took Gaston’s first foot in his lap, just like he did when he gave him a foot rub. Only this time for much a different reason. He sighed regretfully and looked to the captain for a moment.
Gaston raised an eyebrow. “I know, it’s going to hurt.” Gaston rolled his eyes. “Just get on with it, LeFou.”
LeFou took a rag and passed it to Gaston. “Bite this if you need to, honey, this first one is pretty deep.” He said, rubbing Gaston’s ankle to comfort him.  
Gaston took the rag and clenched it in his fist instead. “I’m ready, LeFou.”
LeFou admired his bravery for a short moment before taking the tweezers, ready to do the dirty work. Gaston hardly moved his foot at all, gritting his teeth through the pain as LeFou pulled the first piece of glass out of his foot, bringing a sharp wince from Gaston. He dropped it into the trash bin and carefully started on the next one. His work was clean and quick. LeFou added a rag to the spots where blood pooled out, and applied pressure. “Deep breaths my love.” LeFou reminded him.
Gaston inhaled deeply, remaining calm and still.
“You’re doing great.” LeFou pulled out the next piece of glass, wincing when Gaston let out a muffled grunt of pain. That one must have hit a nerve. “No one takes pain like Gaston.” LeFou said and rubbed his leg for a moment before continuing.  
The next few came out easier. Once LeFou was sure all the glass had been removed, he cleaned up Gaston’s feet and added the cream before bandaging them both up with some cotton strips. “How do you feel, Captain?” He pulled the blanket over Gaston’s legs.
Gaston took a breath, relieved it was over. “Better than it was. You did a good job, LeFou, as you always do.”
“Thank you, Gaston, so did you.” LeFou crawled up to the head of the bed to kiss his forehead.
Gaston smiled tiredly at the gesture and watched as LeFou began to clean up the mess. “I’m grateful this is all the damage that was done.” He gestured to his feet. “I can’t imagine losing this house.”
LeFou glanced up from where he was gathering his supplies. “Me too. Or... worse.” He couldn’t bear to think of it.
Gaston threw the rag back to LeFou and it landed over the basin. “I would have got us out of here, LeFou. Before the house burnt down.”
LeFou smiled at Gaston’s perfect aim. “I know you would have.”  
After LeFou swept up the glass, he returned to the opposite side of Gaston. He noticed the Captain wasn’t lying down yet and cuddled up next to him under the blankets. He felt the strong muscles that built his arms and planted a gentle kiss there.
“Are you tired?” LeFou asked.
“I’m not sure I could sleep if I tried.” Gaston glanced over at the darkened bedside table. “Just look at that.” Gaston said with a breath of sad laughter. “My father’s poor furniture. He had it for how long? And I burnt it to a crisp in one night because I forgot to put out the light.” There was humour in his voice, yet the sadness came through. It was just one more piece of his father gone. In the years to come, when he was older, he feared he might even forget the sound of his voice. People did sometimes, he heard, after the long years passed. Before you know it you can’t even hear them in your head anymore. Then you start forgetting little details in their face. Before long, it’s all a blur.
LeFou looked to the nightstand and then to Gaston, clinging to him tighter. “It’s only furniture, sweetheart. You have him in here.” LeFou placed a hand to Gaston’s heart. Gaston placed a hand on LeFou’s and didn’t say any more about it, for fear he would fall apart at the memories of his loss.
LeFou pulled the blankets up to his chest and watched the flames grow lower in the hearth. The chill of night was settling in again. “I can read to you tomorrow, while you rest in bed to let your feet heal. It will be fun.” LeFou said sweetly and booped his nose. He was trying to bring back their sense of normalcy and get rid of the tension in the air. The fire had clearly shaken up both of them.  
 Gaston wasn’t much of a reader, but hearing LeFou’s sweet voice soothed him. “I would like that.”
For a moment they both listened to the silence amongst the cracks and pops from the fireplace. “Tonight could have been so much worse.” Gaston admitted, unable to stop thinking about what may have been, though it was useless.
“I know...It could have been. But It wasn’t.” LeFou said softly. “Everyone makes mistakes honey, don’t be too hard on yourself. Your Gaston. You are the man among men. And you make so very few it hardly counts.”
Gaston shrugged in agreement and turned his head to kiss LeFou’s brow. “True.” He wrapped his arms around LeFou. “I do love you, Lieutenant.”   
“I love you too, Captain.” LeFou hummed.
Together they watched the night fade from beyond the window. A crisp frost laced the glass, guarding them against the cold outside. They were more content than ever in their cosy bedroom as the sky turned from grey to a dusky blue.

It took a few days for Gaston’s feet to heal well enough for them to take a trip to Paris, and replace the nightstand that was damaged in the fire, returning their lives to normal.
“Well, LeFou, that’s the last time I fall asleep before putting out the light.” Gaston said as he left the damaged furniture beside the woodshed.
LeFou smiled warmly, though his cheeks were a cool pink. “At least we got to spend time in Paris for the weekend.”
Gaston crossed his arms over his chest. “At least.” He furrowed his brow in thought before passing LeFou to go back inside the cottage, continuing the task he set out to do.
LeFou followed Gaston inside. “You know you’re still the best, Gaston.” He said in an attempt to cheer him up.  
Gaston smiled sweetly at him, knowing he was trying to make him feel better about nearly burning the house down. “Then deserve the best.” Gaston took LeFou’s chin, watching as he melted. “That’s you, if you didn’t know.”  Gaston picked up the new nightstand and lifted it into his arms. “Come on, LeFou.”
LeFou followed the huntsman up the stairs. He leaned against the doorway, beaming as Gaston set the nightstand down on the floor.
Gaston looked down at his work. He tried not to think about how this small, insignificant thing was just one more change between his father’s death and this time period. He cursed himself inwardly for being so emotional over it all.
“What do you say to the tavern for dinner tonight? I could use a drink.” Gaston could use a distraction. He pushed the furniture forward, stopping when it got stuck on a stubborn bit of wood. A part of the floor that must have been covered for ages. Gaston hadn’t noticed the uneven boards before and thought nothing of it. Just something that might need to be fixed.
“A night at the tavern is just what we need.” LeFou went to curl up on the bed to watch Gaston. He wrapped the blanket around himself and snuggled into the pillows.
“Do you have a new song ready?” Gaston asked. “Oh, bard of my heart.”
LeFou blushed madly. “Almost, but it’s not ready for tonight.” He said sweetly.
Gaston pushed the nightstand out of the way when it wouldn’t budge, and crouched down to see what the problem was on the floor. Just one more excuse to impress LeFou. A game he had been playing since he was a lad.
“What is it, Gaston?” LeFou asked when he saw Gaston begin to examine the boards on the floor.
Gaston could feel the loose plank between the others and got up to get his dagger from across the room. Something was lodged there, making the board uneven. “Just a loose plank, I think...though I’m not entirely sure.” Gaston admitted and returned to lodge the blade between the wood. It was mostly curiosity that drove him now. He knew this was his father’s bedroom for a long time. With a quick pop, he dislocated the short piece of wood and moved it aside.
“There is something hidden here.” He said, curiously.
LeFou leaned forward to see a tiny hidden space beneath the floor with a dagger hilt acting as the culprit, making the boards uneven. Gaston pulled out a cloth covering an old journal.
“This must have belonged to my father.” Gaston spoke in reverence, taken back by the strange find. As memories came back to him he recalled his father writing in a book much like this once. “I forgot completely. He used to write in this sometimes when I was a boy.” He sat on the bed beside LeFou, holding the journal like it was stolen treasure.
LeFou watched as Gaston transformed from the prideful, confident Captain to the boy he knew so long ago, before the war. Finding something like this was rare and almost frightening.
Gaston pulled the cloth away from the book and felt LeFou’s hand against his shoulder. “Do you need a moment?” LeFou asked.
“No. Don’t leave.” Gaston said before he could think about not sounding clingy. He felt the hard leather making up the book.
LeFou rested his head on Gaston’s shoulder and took his arm gently, rubbing his hand over the huntsman’s strong muscles. “I won't leave, I’ll be right here.”  
Gaston stared down at the book in his hands. This was fathers. Inside this book were his thoughts. Somehow, it felt like an invasion of privacy. He felt guilty. As though he were a boy again, prying into his father's personal affairs, and about to be in for a chastising if his father were to walk in at this very moment. Gaston wished that he would more than anything. But he wouldn’t. He was gone forever.  
“My father must have hidden it here at some point. And to think, this has been here for years and we never knew.” Gaston placed his hand on the book, memories washing over him.  
“We never knew to look for it. Your father wasn’t a secretive man... was he?” LeFou asked softly.
“No, he wasn’t secretive, LeFou. But I thought I had gone through all of his belongings.” Gaston replied. Carefully, he opened the cover of the book. A pang stung his heart when he saw his father’s name.  
Gustave, son of Guavain and Esmee.
Gaston turned a few pages curiously, to see what was left behind from the man that was his beloved father. He would read, despite the hesitation, if only to see him again. If only for just one more conversation. The last bit of what was left of him. This made Gaston want to weep, instead, he remained strong.
Lost for words, LeFou held close to his partner. He remembered all too well, soon after they returned from the war, Gaston finally had to face the idea of going through his father’s belongings and putting some things away in storage, or getting rid of them. That had been another war for him altogether. The war of a father gone far too soon.
Together their eyes traced along the words on the pages, taking in some of the last words they might ever hear from their dear Marshall.

March 26th 1660
Today, I arrived home with my lovely Rochelle. Her dearest friend came with us. She is in search of a husband. Mother and Father insist they both stay in the guest house, until Rochelle and I wed. They say it is indecent otherwise, I know they are right. I’ve never met anyone that made me feel so complete and good and right. Soon we will be a family. Now that Gautier is gone, it is up to me to further our family line. Father says I am his heir now. I miss my brother. I never wanted to be in his rightful place. Regardless, I must carry everything as if it were meant to be mine. For the betterment of Villeneuve, and my family. I can’t afford to think of myself. I pray Raphael will settle down as well. The bitterness between us is fading, but I don't think I will ever truly trust him again. Forgiveness is necessary but trust is something that must be earned.

Gaston looked to LeFou, keeping his hand on the page. “He didn’t want to be the leader. I remember he told me, being the leader was something he did because it was his duty.” The thought of someone else being leader, and Gaston never being the heir of Villeneuve didn’t settle well with him. It was unthinkable.
LeFou smiled fondly. “He was always so good about doing what needed to be done, even if he didn’t want it. He was truly a good man. Like you.”
Gaston smiled softly. “There will never be another man like him, ever again in this world.” He ran his fingers over the pages of the book as he turned to another page.  He wanted to read more. As if somehow reading written words from his father, that he had never seen, might bring him closer to him. If only for a moment. It was almost like speaking to him....almost.
Gaston felt the gentle touch of LeFou against his arm and placed his hand over his, grateful for the comfort. The next entry was written a few days later than the last.
Reading his father’s hidden journal was the right thing to do, despite his previous hesitation. After all, who else but them should see it. Gaston was all that remained of his father. They would keep him alive with their memory. A curious thought occurred to him. Gustave had written plenty before, that Gaston was well aware of. He had some of those books. Why was this one hidden? What made it different from the others? Perhaps it was more personal because he was younger. Maybe he didn’t want Gaston to see the weaker side of him. If there was one at all. The next entry proved that.

March 31st 1660
Mother was crying again today. She will never stop waiting for Gautier to come home. Sadly, I know him. I know he won’t. She keeps telling me her prayers were answered when I returned home from the war. But I know there is still an empty place in her heart. In all of our hearts. We still haven’t heard much from Gautier. Last we knew he was in Rome. I worry about him often, and pray for his safety. I hope he’s alright. I hoped he might come back while I was at war, but I knew better. He's been gone for too long. All his responsibilities now fall on me. Perhaps I am more suited anyways. He was always too distracted. I hope he is happy now, in whatever he is doing.   

“He was more suited. I remember as a lad, my father said his brother moved away when he was still a lad himself.” Gaston skipped several pages ahead.
“It must have been hard on them.” LeFou said sadly. “But I’m glad your father was the leader. Can you imagine this village without you, Gaston?”
Gaston smiled thoughtfully. “Yes, being the future leader always seemed so natural to me. I never thought it could be any other way. To think what my life might have been if my uncle stayed.” Gaston shook his head.
“Did we ever meet him, Gaston?” LeFou piped. He found it strange to hear Gaston use the words, ‘my uncle.’
Gaston thought about it for a moment. “The only time I ever saw him was at my grandfather’s burial. He didn’t stay long.” Gaston flipped several pages ahead and shrugged. “I remember my father speaking with him. He was tall and looked a lot like my grandfather.” Quietly Gaston began to read the next page, LeFou’s eyes following their path.

November 3rd 1660
Father says the nightmares of war become less frequent with time. Mother just purchased some more lavender tea from Paris. It helps if you have trouble sleeping. I don’t know what I would do without them. I am also glad to have Rochelle by my side. I have been courting her for eight months now. Not a long time, yet I know she is the girl I want to marry. She is the most beautiful, incredible woman I’ve ever known. I told Father and Mother how I feel. They say I should do what my heart tells me to do. I am waiting until next year to ask for her hand. For now, we are getting ready to celebrate the holidays. I can’t help but wonder if my brother will come home. Or if he even knows I returned home from the war.

It was terrible, the way his uncle treated his family. Gaston never really thought about how hard it must have been on his family when his uncle left town. How could anyone not want to be in Villeneuve, when they belonged to such a great family? Who wouldn’t want to be the leader of this village? Without speaking, he began to read further on, aware LeFou was still following along.   

March 1st 1663
Rochelle and I are going on holiday this weekend, to Paris for our one year anniversary. Spring is coming and things are changing in the village. The war is long past. I am a married man to a wonderful woman and head of the village. Even Raphael is starting to accept it. Finally. He is also married now. I didn’t ever think that would happen. To a girl named Aimee, Rochelle’s closest friend. Timothee says he too is in search of a wife. One of the newly married men in the village, Curtis, just had his firstborn son. A boy named Duvall. In a few years, Rochelle and I will start a family as well. I cannot wait to be a father.

Gaston smiled fondly. Of course Gustave couldn’t wait to be a father. He was the best father anyone could have ever asked for. Gaston hoped LeFou wasn’t upset by the mention of his own parents. He kissed the smaller man’s cheek just in case he was. LeFou blushed and returned the sweet gesture with a kiss to the shoulder. Gaston continued to read. The silence enveloped him as his father’s memory filled the space around them once again.

September 4th 1666
The autumn hunting trip is coming. And for the first time in forever, I am not going. We just found out Rochelle is with child and mother insists I stay behind with her. Of course I would anyway. Doc. Bernard believes she is two months along. We couldn’t be happier. I can’t believe I’m going to be a father. We have waited a long time for this moment in our lives. Raphael and Aimee also recently found out they are with child. Our children will be born only a few months apart. They will grow up together as friends. Perhaps this can help bring us closer as two families. I cannot wait to meet him or her. Though I’m almost certain it’s a boy. I just have a feeling. We will celebrate autumn in the cottage this year, warm by the fire.

Gaston chuckled when he finished the page. “We did grow up together, and we are certainly closer than friends.” He looked to LeFou who was smiling against his shoulder.
LeFou giggled happily. “At least we know that’s what he wanted for us. I love you, Gaston.”
“I love you.” Gaston replied and took his hand.
Silence set in as they studied the page they just read. “They had so much hope for the future.” LeFou said gently.
Gaston felt a twinge of guilt at the comment. He knew how it would end for his father’s marriage. And he seemed so happy. “My father always said I was the best thing that happened to him. That I was his heart.” Gaston paused, he couldn’t let himself admit that he felt responsible for what happened to his mother.
LeFou squeezed his hand gently, reminding the Captain where he was in the present. He could tell when he was starting to lose himself in thought. “You were the best thing that happened to everyone here, my love. You saved our village, and our lives so many times. Your father would be so proud.”
Gaston turned his eyes to LeFou’s. It was moments like this that made him remember why he needed him. “Just like I’m proud of you. Without my lieutenant, I’m not sure where I would be.”
LeFou smiled. This was a rare, almost humble side of Gaston that was rarely exposed, and it remained here, only for LeFou. Like so many other parts of him.
“We could never be without each other, Gaston.” LeFou peeped sweetly, putting his arms around the bigger man’s shoulders.
Gaston began to flip the pages forward once again, grateful that LeFou was close. Part of him wanted to shut the journal and stop there. A curious part kept him going. Anything new about his father that he hadn’t seen before was almost like a chance to be close to him again. To speak with him. Next, he searched for the date he was born. April 15th. When he didn’t see that day, he went to the next one closest. The next words ripped like daggers into his heart. Perhaps LeFou’s arms were now the only thing keeping him from falling apart. Perhaps LeFou knew that, as he held him closer.   

April  17th 1667
She’s gone. It feels as though my heart may never heal. I don’t think it will. The only thing keeping me going now is him. This tiny baby, asleep next to me. He is all I have left of her. Mother has been helping me care for him, and helping me cope through these dark days. I appreciate everyone’s help, yet all I want to do is be alone. Except for our son, who I will not let out of my sight for anything. I vow I will never let anything bad happen to him. He is all I have left of our future. Of our people’s future. He is what keeps me going. He is the future of Villeneuve.

Gaston swallowed back the emotions, refusing to cry. The way his father talked about his mother’s death, it reminded him of how he felt when his father was taken from him. How lost he had felt without him when he was gone at the young age of 15. Gaston was grateful he at least seemed to provide a sense of comfort to his father after he lost his beloved wife.
LeFou rubbed Gaston's back tenderly, sensing his grief. He knew what Gaston’s father meant to him. He hoped the journals would provide him with a sense of comfort. Gaston hadn't been the same after he lost his father. Gaston let his arm find its way around LeFou and turned to the next entry. The date was written a month later.

May 15th 1667
Gaston is a month old today, and growing faster than ever. My heart still feels the deep regret of loss, yet I carry on. I have no other choice. My son needs me. Perhaps just as much as I need him. He’s so little. He has my hair, and I see her in the shape of his eyes. He has quite the ambitious little personality. He already knows what he wants every morning at dawn. He drinks goat's milk like I never thought possible for a baby. Where does it all go? He met Raphael’s son, Claudius. He likes him a lot, from what I could tell. They are so small and delicate. Mother says these days will flash before my eyes in an instant and I should enjoy them. But I can’t wait until my little one can walk and run and talk, and play in the mud. I love him so much more than I ever thought I could love anyone. I miss my Rochelle so much. Wherever you are tonight my darling, I hope you can see how beautiful our baby boy is. I miss you.    

“You were so adorable.” LeFou cooed.
“And you were still called Claudius.” Gaston added, pressing a kiss to LeFou’s face. He flipped the pages forward, and as he did, a small red leaf exposed itself on the white parchment.
“An autumn leaf.” LeFou peeped. Gaston took the stem of the leaf and observed its three sharp corners. Nothing about it seemed to strike any memories.

September 3rd 1670
Gaston brought me this leaf while I was raking the garden this morning. I will be going on the autumn hunting trip soon. My parents will be watching over him while I am away. Gaston told me when he handed this to me, he still wanted to go, but, since he couldn't, he would send this leaf with me instead. I have placed it in the pages of my journal. My silly sweet boy. Starting next year I will be taking him on all the hunting trips. I will begin teaching him our family's trade. I still think of my brother often and wish he would have taken our responsibilities more to heart. I hope he is still in good health.

Gaston placed the leaf back in the journal’s pages. “We were only three when he wrote this. And I remember the first time he took me on the autumn hunt.”
LeFou hummed fondly. “I remember seeing you leave the village on hunting trips with your father. I always missed you so much when you were gone.”
“And now look at you. You come along on each trip with me.” Gaston closed the book tenderly, and set it on the bed, having read enough for one day. He gently took LeFou's hand and kissed it before getting up.
“Oh? Are we going somewhere?” LeFou asked, watching him with round brown eyes.
“The tavern. I'm starving.” Gaston took his coat from the wrack, pulling it on as he looked out the window at his lovely village. His home. The place he was born to lead and protect. “I need to get my head out of that book before it starts doing things to my mind.” Gaston added. “Besides, All those feelings can really make a man hungry.” He continued to stare out the window as people, his people passed. He looked up. The sky was nearly white today. “Get my hat, LeFou? It looks like it could rain.”
LeFou watched his lover proudly. “Right away Captain.” He slipped the book into the drawer of the new nightstand. They would return to this another day.  
“This does prove one thing, Gaston.” LeFou got Gaston’s hat and approached him.
“What is that?” Gaston turned around.
“Diamonds can be found from the ashes of fire.” LeFou placed the hat on the Captain’s head.
Gaston chuckled. “Not quite ashes though.”
LeFou slipped his arm around Gaston’s. “No, but it's only a metaphor.”
“Well, in any case, I am glad we did find it.” Gaston said as they made their way to the tavern. “And I am even more glad to have you by my side.”

The End

Chapter Text

Another Like Us

The Captain rose before dawn, to go for a quick hunt. LeFou just couldn’t pull himself from the warm bed that morning, so Gaston let Choc, their Picardy Spaniel in their bedroom, to cuddle with LeFou in his stead.

When LeFou woke, he found the excited pup playing around on the bed, more than ready to start the day. Sunlight poured across the room, telling LeFou he was indeed up much later than usual.

Choc wagged his tail in a vicious thump against the blankets when he saw LeFou was awake. He bounced forward, face alive with delight. Whining in excitement, the pup began to nudge LeFou and lick him, urging him to get up for the day.

“You are just like Gaston in the morning.” LeFou giggled. “Alright, I’ll get up.” He ran his hand over the soft chocolate head and pulled himself up.

LeFou got dressed for the day as the puppy played around him, still too young to go on the hunt with Gaston. “Are you hungry little guy? Did daddy feed you?” He asked the pup and picked him up. The puppy squirmed in his arms.

LeFou went downstairs and set the pup down on the couch. The pup didn’t stay long, and bounded off, following his human around the cottage. LeFou took his light jacket from the tall antler coat wrack and opened the door, allowing Choc to follow him outside.

“Bonjour, LeFou!” Jaques exclaimed as LeFou approached the dog yard.

“Bonjour!” LeFou replied and rested his arms on the gate.

“There’s little Choc.” Jaques said with a smile as the pup ran up to him. “Has he eaten?” He asked LeFou.

“No, I don’t think so.” LeFou told him. “Gaston should be back soon, I was just going to pick up a few things from the market.”

Jaques picked up the puppy as it bounced around him. “Alright, I’ll let him know if he returns before you get back.”

LeFou nodded. “Thank you, Jaques.” He left the front gate as the other man prepared the food for the hunting dogs like he did every morning. He was just usually gone before LeFou started on breakfast.  

He was carrying his groceries home when LeFou came upon something in the middle of the road. A small leather book lay against the cobblestone without an owner. LeFou picked it up and looked around for someone who may have dropped it. When Mr. Potts walked by, seeing a question in LeFou’s eyes he stopped to talk to him.

“Do you know who this might belong to?” LeFou asked the older man.

Mr. Potts took the small book and opened it. “There is no name on the cover. You know I’m afraid I haven’t any idea.” He handed the book back to LeFou. “I’ll ask around son.” He smiled happily. “Don’t go worrying yourself over it, the owner will turn up.” LeFou slipped the book into his coat as they parted ways.

When LeFou got home he put the groceries away and sat down on the couch to look closer at the little book. The first page he turned to was a sketch, drawn from charcoal. A drawing of the middle of town by the fountain. Whoever this book belonged to, was very talented, he could see all the details perfectly.

He flipped a few more pages and found a picture of a boy with curly hair, brushing a horse, and if he wasn’t mistaken it looked to be Will the stable boy. There was a sketch of a bridge, probably in Paris, several of landscapes, people, and animals, all done exceptionally well.

His finger froze on the next page he turned to. It was Gaston, a younger Gaston, at least six years ago or more. LeFou smiled fondly and turned to the page, of a boy sitting alone by a window. He wondered if whoever was drawing these drew this one in haste, because the scribbles of the boy seemed so fast and almost frantic. Yet precise. He wondered what the story was behind it.

The drawings seemed to get better as he looked through further pages. He was starting to get an idea of who it might belong to when he saw a picture of two boys that he recognized holding hands. It looked like Will and Jaques. The one person who didn’t seem to appear in the drawings was the one person who must have drawn them.

Just as he was about to turn the page again, he heard the front gate open. LeFou got up and opened the front door, to see Gaston walking up with a stag on his shoulders.

“Good morning, my friend.” LeFou called out with a wave and a smile on his face.

Gaston’s face brightened when he saw him. “Good morning LeFou.”

“What an amazing hunter you are, Gaston.” LeFou beamed, almost forgetting about the book due to the sheer majesty of the Huntsman.

Gaston smirked. “I know, I’m going to take this to the back for skinning, I’ll be in shortly.”

LeFou closed the door and went to start the eggs for breakfast.

After Gaston finished skinning his recent kill, entered the cottage to find breakfast ready. “Smells good, I’m starving.” Gaston went to wash his hands.

“Thank you, my hungry huntsman.” LeFou reached up for a kiss.

“You smell so good.” Gaston said with almost a growl as he lingered against his neck.

LeFou giggled, feeling regretful when Gaston moved away. Then he remembered the book. “I um… found this today.” He pulled the book from his pocket and handed it to Gaston.

Gaston looked questionably at the book and opened it. “What’s this?” He asked, and soon had the question answered when he saw the sketches.

“Do you recognize the artist? I found it in the street today.” LeFou told him, now having a good idea of who it belonged to.

Gaston looked through the pages carefully. He stopped when he came to a picture of one of the boys holding hands. He turned the next page and found the one of Jaques and Will. “Whoever did it, they’re like us.” Gaston stated, observing the other drawings. There was one that looked to be of Tom and Dick’s house.

“Perhaps someone who idolizes Tom and Dick?” LeFou was hoping Gaston would come to the same conclusion he did. He didn’t after all want to give the book back to the wrong person.

Gaston looked up in surprise. “This is Stanley’s work. I always knew he was a good artist but I didn’t know he was…” Gaston hesitated.

“Well, it’s nice to know we’re not alone.” LeFou said sheepishly.

Gaston closed the book and put it on the counter. “We’ll take the book to Tom’s after breakfast and see what he thinks. If it belongs to Stanley, he’ll be missing it.”

“I hope he’s not worried.” LeFou began to serve breakfast. “And at least… at least I’m not alone. There is someone else like me.”

Gaston took off his hunting coat and wrapped his arms around LeFou’s waist. He kissed the back of his neck. “You are never alone, my love.”

LeFou blushed, feeling just how close the huntsman was to him.

Gaston kissed him once more before taking the cups of coffee and silverware to the table to set them for breakfast. “I always knew Stanley was different. Especially being so close to Tom and Dick.” Gaston chuckled.  

LeFou smiled happily. With the discovery of the book, he felt just a little less alone than he had before. Maybe there were more people like him in the world than he thought. Even in this tiny, quiet little village.

The End

Chapter Text

The Sticking Place

The snow was so thick he could hardly see. It whipped across his face in a frenzy of freezing cold. Gaston relied almost fully on memory as he walked from the stables to the dog shelter. The storm had been sudden, and fierce, and though they anticipated it, no one knew it would be this bad. Gaston had just finished tending to the horses when it really picked up. He knew LeFou would be inside worrying.

The blast of wind and snow cut off immediately when he closed the door to the shelter. This alerted the dogs, who lay still in the darkness. Gaston lit the lanterns on the wall and made sure the windows were closed tight enough to keep out any wind and most of the cold.

He made sure they all had proper access to water and food that would last them a few days if need be. Just as he had done with the horses. When he finished, he pulled his coat and scarf closer around his body and ventured back out into the storm. He wasn’t sure, but the snow seemed to already be blowing harder.

LeFou huddled by the window, watching as a wall of snow blocked Gaston from his view. He should be out with him. But Gaston insisted he stay inside. He would be back in a flash, the Huntsman told him. Gaston would be fine, LeFou assured himself. It wasn’t a long walk to the stables and back. And he knew the way.  

When the kettle started to sing, LeFou jumped up and ran over to the stove. He poured the water into two cups with cocoa powder and set them on the footstool by the fireplace to keep warm as he stirred them. LeFou took one of the fur blankets and snuggled into his chair, wrapping the blanket around him, waiting for Gaston. He took his book to distract himself, feeling over the spine. The anticipation was building with each tedious minute.  

When the door flung open, so did a burst of wind and snow. LeFou gasped and went to help. Together they pressed the door shut. Though LeFou knew Gaston didn’t likely need his help. Snow covered huntsman from hair to boots.

Gaston removed his coat and hat, breathing a sigh of relief. It wasn’t war, but the small threat of danger filled him with an adrenalin that he craved, and almost never got in this little village.

“Some storm!” LeFou exclaimed as he brushed the snow from Gaston’s coat. “Is everyone okay out there?”

Gaston hung up his hat. “They have enough food and water to last, and the wind is off them. It will be a cold night but they have each other to keep warm.”

“And so do we.” LeFou hung up Gaston’s coat and took the Captain’s hands. He pulled off his leather gloves to let them dry by the fire. “Oh, and I made hot cocoa.”

“Sounds amazing.” Gaston took off his boots and went to sit down by the fire. LeFou put one of the thick fur blankets over Gaston and handed him his drink.

“Thank you LeFou.” Gaston held the warm cup in his hands. His body at last started to feel like it had warm blood flowing through it again.

LeFou moved his chair closer and sat down by the huntsman. He snuggled back up and took his drink and book, turning to one of the pages.

“What are you reading? Shakespeare?” Gaston asked, closing his eyes.

LeFou pulled the blanket closer around his shoulders, getting more comfortable. “Different quotes from his plays and poems.”

Gaston took a sip of his cocoa and watched the flames in the fireplace burn against the logs. “A good choice for a day like this. Stuck at home.” He said with a tone of annoyance at not being able to get out. Hopefully, it wouldn’t last long.  

LeFou took Gaston’s hand. “Here, I’ll read to you.” He said sweetly, knowing how restless Gaston could get indoors. “And you guess what play it’s from.”

Gaston nodded in contentment. Hearing LeFou read was as calming as waves on the ocean.  

“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, my love as deep. The more I give to thee, the more I have, for both are infinite.” LeFou looked up to see if he recognized it.

“Romeo and Juliet?” Gaston asked.

“You remembered!” LeFou said happily.

Gaston shrugged. “Well, you’ve read that sappy love story so many times I’m not sure I’ve had any choice but to remember.”

LeFou smiled nonetheless and flipped a few pages forward. “Hear my soul speak. The very instant that I saw you, did my heart fly to your service.” LeFou looked to Gaston who was now trying to remember and seemed to be struggling.

“It’s lost on me.” Gaston finally admitted.

“The Tempest.” LeFou said sweetly. “I’ve read that one to you before too.”

The realisation came to Gaston’s eyes. “Oh… The one about the beautiful girl on the island, the sprite, and the wild man.”

LeFou giggled at Gaston’s description. “Yes, that one.” He turned the pages. “I’ve read you this one a few times as well.” LeFou held up the book.

“Macbeth. Isn’t that the one you read when we were at war?” Gaston asked.

LeFou nodded and snuggled up against Gaston. “We fail?” He read. “But screw your courage to the sticking place, and we’ll not fail.”

“Hmm. Yes, I remember this book, you hardly put it down.” Gaston kissed the top of LeFou’s head, savouring the warmth of him.

LeFou took a sip of his cocoa, careful not to spill any on Gaston or the book. “It’s the idea, to affix your bravery to a place that it will not abandon you. I needed a lot of that in those days.” He flipped over a page, reading the next words in his head.

“You were very brave my love.” Gaston finished his coco and set it aside so he could use both arms to hold LeFou.

LeFou leaned in against his chest. “You were more brave than I could have ever been, Gaston.”

“Perhaps, but it’s easy for me to be brave. I am very proud of you, my love.” Gaston promised.

LeFou set his mostly empty cup aside and watched as snow covered the window in a blanket of white. “I suppose we’ll be indoors for a day or two.” He figured.

Gaston was silent for a moment before getting up. “Might as well make the best of it then. Fancy a nap on the rug?” He raised one of his eyebrows, gesturing to the bear rug on the floor by the fire.

LeFou’s mouth hung open as he watched Gaston take off his trousers, and then remove his shirt. “Whatever you say, Captain.” He giggled as Gaston overtook him, pulling him down with him onto the rug.

“See, being snowed in isn’t so bad now, is it?” Gaston cocooned LeFou in his arms, kissing the crook of his neck as though it were made of honey.

LeFou hummed happily, removing the Captain’s ribbon from his hair. “Not so bad at all, Gaston.”

The End

Chapter Text

Best In The Village

“What about this one?” LeFou asked as he brushed the needles of the wonderful smelling pine tree. “It’s nice and full.” He lifted the lantern he was carrying higher to observe it.

The crunch of Gaston’s boots on the snow filled the quiet winter air as the huntsman approached from behind. “No, still not tall enough.”

LeFou hurried after him, his footprints blending with Gaston’s. He was cold but he knew how important it was to find the best tree. It had to be at least ten feet tall, according to Gaston. But any taller than twelve feet and it wouldn’t fit in the cottage.

A sharp sound pierced the evening air as a wolf called for its pack. “Did you hear that, Gaston?” LeFou asked anxiously.

“I heard it.” Gaston replied. He turned his head, eyes flashing in the moonlight from above and the glowing snow below. The village lights could still be seen from this point past the meadow.

“Shouldn’t we be hurrying?” LeFou squeaked.

Gaston’s grip tightened on the axe upon his shoulder. “You’re safe, LeFou. Don’t worry.” He promised, and shared a look with him that seemed to calm LeFou’s nerves. “The wolves are just as afraid of us as we… as you are of them. And if any try to disprove that, I have the gun to prove it.”

LeFou nodded, and bravely followed close to the captain as they continued towards another group of trees. In the distance, they saw one, tall and full and beautiful. “Oh, look.” LeFou beamed.

Gaston looked up at the tall branches, a smile on his face. “Perfect.” He took his measuring stick of twelve feet. If the tree was the same height as the stick it would be too tall.

LeFou held up the lantern so they could see better. “Looks like… ten feet?”

“Perfect. It will do nicely.” Gaston took the axe and began to chop evenly at the bottom of the trunk.

LeFou watched in admiration as Gaston swung the axe with amazing force.

He watched as the tree swayed, and backed up, along with Gaston as it crashed to the earth, spraying snow up where it landed.

Gaston began tying two ropes to the tree so they could drag it away. LeFou took the opposite rope, and they drug it out of the forest. Gaston carried most of the weight, yet LeFou was still panting when they got to the cart. “This will look so good in the living room.” LeFou beamed.

Gaston pulled up the cart and lifted the tree, loading it onto the back. “Yes, it’s a fine tree.” He got in the driver’s seat. “Maybe the best one in the whole forest.” He said playfully.  

LeFou hurried to get in the carriage as Gaston took the reins. “It has to be.” LeFou said with excitement. Tomorrow we can decorate it.” He looked back to watch the tree sway back and forth when Gaston snapped the reins.  

To kill the silence of the deadly quiet winter night, LeFou began to sing a cheerful song, to which Gaston was soon duetting. The two sung as they entered the village, drawing the eyes and ears of the villagers all around, who were going about their evening business.

The song ended just as they pulled up to the cottage, and stopped at the snow covered gate. Gaston pulled the tree from the cart, and LeFou followed him inside, taking one last look at the snowy white village, the bright lanterns, and the Christmas tree in the middle of town. He was proud to call this his home. He smiled warmly at it like it was an old friend, before closing the door.

Together they got the tree up, against the window for all to see, to be decorated in the morning. LeFou brought them two cups of hot cocoa. “Here is to another magical Christmas with the man I love.” LeFou said as he snuggled down next to Gaston on the couch. The warmth of the fire making them both feel content and happy.

Gaston took LeFou’s chin in his hand, his eyes filled with mirth and longing. “And to another marvellous year together.” He said and gave him a kiss.

The End   

Chapter Text

The Colour Of Spring

It was late when they returned home from Paris. Gaston and LeFou left their belongings in the living room to unpack tomorrow and went to bed after a cup of tea. Spring was on the way, LeFou had noted on the trip home. They spotted at least three fawns with their mothers and many baby rabbits and nests of birds in the trees. It was an exciting time of the year, and especially nice to be home after so many months in the city of lights.

LeFou woke unexpectedly in the night. Something was dreadfully wrong. At least in the eyes of the dog barking from the shelter behind Gaston’s cottage. A tired moan escaped his lips as he rolled over to where Gaston was sleeping. “Gaston?” LeFou whined as he snuggled up to the huntsman. His arm draped across Gaston’s mid back.

Gaston groaned from the deep sleep he had been trying not to leave, and slowly pulled himself out of bed, knowing it was his duty to go look and see what was going on with the dog.

LeFou’s arm fell limply into the empty space, the warmth of Gaston’s body still lingering.

“I’ll take care of it.” Gaston began pulling on his boots, still leaving his sleep state. What on earth could be going on outside that would cause such distress? Probably just a wild animal nearby, maybe a bobcat or a fox.

LeFou mumbled out a thank you, barely audible, and pulled the pillow over his head, quickly falling back to sleep.

Gaston left the room, the drowsiness of sleep slowly leaving. He pulled his jacket over his shoulders and grabbed his gun on the way out, just in case. Taking a deep breath of the fresh air, he walked towards the dog shelter, his boots leaving prints behind him in the earth.

The huntsman pulled open the gate and passed through the run where the dogs usually played.

The desperate cries of the dog became louder when Gaston opened the door to the shelter. It was dark, except for the moonlight shining through the windows, and he could see most of the dogs lying around in the hay, all of them probably wishing they could sleep.

A few tails wagged as Gaston lit the lantern, fighting back Choc as he ran up, jumping and howling for his attention. “So it’s you that’s causing all the ruckus.” He hung up the lantern. The chocolate spaniel barked, wagging his tail furiously before dashing away.

“What is it, boy?” Gaston followed the dog to a pile of straw behind an old cart. Gaston looked closer as Choc began to lick something in the hay next to Daisy. The collie was curled up on one of the dog blankets.

Gaston crouched down in the straw and ran his hand over Daisy’s soft head. Choc whined and nuzzled what he was licking, bringing a whimper from the small thing. To Gaston’s complete shock, it was a newborn puppy, in fact, there were three of them, so close to their mother that they were almost invisible in the shadows. And they were so little, almost alarmingly so.

Daisy lifted her head, and repositioned herself, the motion making all three pups wiggle closer to her. She began to lick them, and Choc laid down beside her, panting.

“I didn’t even realize you were pregnant.” Gaston said in wonder, as the puppies rooted around in her long fur. “But then we have been gone for a while, haven’t we?” He chuckled to himself. What a surprise to come home too.

Choc got up and nuzzled Gaston, practically pushing himself into his arms with a moan, finally content that his human was nearby to ensure everything was alright.

“You’re taking this worse than she is.” Gaston stroked his head, taking in the scene before him. One of the other dogs, a white and brown spaniel slowly approached, making her way to see the puppies. Daisy looked towards her and lifted her upper lip, baring her teeth. Gaston reached out and pet the approaching dog as she sat behind Gaston, keeping the huntsman between herself and the new mother, but still watching with obvious curiosity.

“I don’t think you should test her.” He said and rubbed her head. With that, she laid down and leaned against his knee. “Good girl, Autumn.” He told her, thinking of LeFou who had been the one to pick out this pup when they bought her.

Gaston got up, giving Daisy a reassuring head rub before taking the lantern and heading back outside. He made his way back into the cottage and found LeFou fast asleep in his bed. He took off his coat and boots, and crawled back into the warmth of the blankets, deciding he would tell LeFou in the morning about the pups.

Before sunrise, Gaston left a note on LeFou’s pillow, telling him to meet him in the dog yard. He went outside to catch Jacques just as he was arriving at Gaston’s cottage to do his daily duties, taking care of the hunting dogs.

“I was going to tell you, first thing when you arrived, Captain.” Jaques explained. “But it seems she didn’t want to wait.” He chuckled happily.

“LeFou is going to love this.” Gaston thought about how adorable LeFou would be when he saw them. “And don’t worry about not telling me, unexpected things must happen like this all the time. Especially in the spring.”

“Gaston?” LeFou called as he approached from the cottage.

“Come see something, LeFou!” Gaston yelled with a smile.

Jaques could barely keep in his excitement as Gaston opened the door for LeFou.

“See what?” LeFou asked curiously.

Gaston walked into the dog shelter with LeFou and Jaques behind him.

LeFou gasped when he saw them. “Gaston, they are so cute!”

Gaston crouched beside LeFou as they admired the little beings. “That’s why Choc was barking last night.” He told LeFou.

“Because he’s a father now.” LeFou beamed. “And you’re a mother.” He rubbed Daisy’s head sweetly. He delicately touched one of the puppies, afraid it would shatter like glass if he wasn’t careful. Daisy leaned into him, looking up with worried eyes, though she trusted her humans. “You did so good honey.” LeFou exclaimed and stroked her head fondly. “Gaston, I believe spring is finally here.”

Six weeks later…

Gaston laid back in his chair, watching as LeFou snuggled all three puppies in his arms as they played and bounced around. The brown one tugged ferociously at his coat. LeFou pet the head of the black puppy, who licked everything like its life depended on it. The third one, a mix of colours like its mother, stayed closer to him, and away from the couch's edge.

“Are you taking over as mother again, LeFou?” Gaston teased him and put his feet up on the footstool.

LeFou giggled and moved the puppy attacking his face to the couch beside her brothers. “I could you know, but I think they would miss their real mama.” LeFou said. Gaston smirked, leaning his arm on the armrest. “Have you thought about which one we are keeping?” LeFou asked him.

Gaston got up and sat down on the couch beside LeFou and the puppies, contemplating his decision. “Which one do you like the most?” Gaston asked, and pet the brown one. LeFou and Gaston had decided not to choose which one they were keeping until they were at least six weeks old when their personalities really started to show.

LeFou hummed and picked up the black one. “Well, this little girl is the sweetest.” He said before taking the chocolate one. “And this boy looks like his papa, he’s the most playful.” LeFou picked up the multicoloured one last. “This one is the calmest. He’d make a good inside dog for somebody.”

Gaston put his arm around LeFou and the black puppy tumbled into Gaston’s lap, between them. “They will all make fine hunters.” Gaston stroked the black pup. “I like her personality.” Gaston said as the puppy climbed up to his chest. LeFou leaned into him and smiled happily, the other two pups still in his lap. “Aww.” LeFou exclaimed and stroked the puppy’s face. “We could name her Ebony? It means black.” LeFou told Gaston as the puppy began licking the huntsman’s chin.

Gaston picked her up and looked at her as if deciding she was the one they were going to keep. “Perfect.” He kissed LeFou and put the puppy down into LeFou’s arms. “I love her, and you.” Gaston said before getting up.

“I love you too.” LeFou blushed. “Are we going somewhere?”

“To the tavern.” Gaston replied. “I could do with a little drinking, dance, and song.” Gaston winked and LeFou cooed happily.

“Alright.” LeFou got up, scooping the puppies into his arms. “I’ll take them back to Mama and be right back to get ready.

When LeFou returned, he found Gaston upstairs getting ready, and joined him, preparing for the night out at the tavern, as they did so often. He began thinking over a few of his songs as he changed, deciding on one to perform with Gaston tonight. He beamed, thinking of how badly he sometimes wanted to kiss Gaston when they were in public, it was often hard to control himself.

“Ready to go, my love?” Gaston called for LeFou, having already gone downstairs.

LeFou hurried towards the door, a sack of gold in his pocket. “Yes, I’m ready.” He linked his arm with Gaston’s.

Gaston gently kissed LeFou on the lips and touched his face. “Good, let’s go then, my wild love.” He said with his charming smirk and his radiating confidence.

With that, LeFou swooned madly and followed his huntsman out of the cottage, ready to have a delightful evening at the tavern. One of their favourite places to be.

The End           

Chapter Text

Ten Reasons Why

Winter’s chill had left at last. Replaced by a pleasant breeze that sent the smell of newly budding flowers and grass through the air.  LeFou had gone outside on this peaceful afternoon to pick some early blooming flowers for the dinner table, as he left Gaston to his bath upstairs.

LeFou smiled at the villagers as he passed by, holding his head high. He made his way down to the stream that ran underneath the bridge on the way out of the hustle and bustle of the village.

He could have easily bought some flowers from the market in a couple of weeks, but there was just something special about wildflowers. He didn’t have to walk far before he found a cluster of white bluebells bunched up underneath the bridge by the water. The sight was a marvel to him as they had just been through a cold and snowy winter.

LeFou made his way down the dip in the ground, careful not to trip as he crouched down. He watched the water flow by, like clear and cold silk flowing over the larger rocks in the riverbed.

Something about the very start of spring just made him feel so alive. In the corner of his eye, he saw movement and looked to see a rabbit munching on the grass by a tree. On the other side of the stream, he saw a mama duck and her babies following her in a perfect line.

LeFou thought of his younger days with Gaston. How all the things that made him so in love with Gaston then, still made him blush just as much now. He hummed happily to himself and picked one of the white flowers, then another. He came to a spot where snowdrops sprung up along the water's edge. With each flower picked, he thought of a reason why he loved Gaston, and he had every intention of telling him these reasons as soon as he got home. He had reminded himself not to take too many at first, as nature was just waking up.

LeFou counted four bluebells and six snowdrops as he walked back up to the front steps of the cottage. He opened the front door and smiled when he saw Gaston already done with his bath and downstairs in nothing but a towel wrapped around his waist. LeFou swooned and bit his bottom lip as he closed the door.

“You’re incredibly handsome.” LeFou beamed.

Gaston smirked playfully. “I thought you would say that. I see you found some flowers.”

LeFou took a step closer to Gaston and held one of the flowers in his right hand, while the others remained in his left. “I also thought of ten reasons why I love you.” LeFou added cutely.

Gaston tilted his head, curious about this flair of creativity from LeFou. “Only ten?” He teased.

LeFou beamed with shy admiration. “Well, I couldn’t pick all the flowers in the world and be back by dinner, so I settled with the ones under the bridge.”

Gaston reached his arm forward, the distance between them broken by the touch of his hand. “Go on then, LeFou.” He insisted.

LeFou held out the first flower. “I love your strength, and how it feels in your arms, so safe and warm.” LeFou ran the flower down Gaston’s muscular arm.

Gaston smiled and took the flower from LeFou as he handed it to him.

“I love your captivating eyes. How they change colour with the sunlight and the change of your mood.” LeFou ran the second flower over Gaston’s cheek playfully.

“How very bold of you, my love. You will have to pick flowers more often.” Gaston took the next flower, resisting the urge to move closer to him.

LeFou felt his cheeks grow warm. “I love your desire to protect those you love and your dedication to fighting for our country and our home.” LeFou handed him another flower. “I love the way you walk, and your perfect, masculine, tantalizing singing voice.” LeFou swooned as he spoke.

Gaston took the next flowers.

LeFou smiled giddily at him. “I love the way your boots fall so heavily across the floor when you walk.”

Gaston laughed. “Why is that?”

“Because it reminds me that you’re home, tells me that I’m safe. Changes a sound that used to bother me to one of joy. You turned my life around Gaston.” He took another flower. “I love how tea makes you feel better when you can’t sleep. And just…everything about your beautiful face, the cleft in your chin, your dark raven hair and your perfect, alluring body.” He blushed at the thought.

Gaston smirked and could no longer resist touching LeFou. He ran his hand through LeFou’s hair gently, still holding nine of the flowers.

“And last, I love your kisses.” LeFou felt weak as Gaston leaned in to grant his desire.

When their lips parted, Gaston left his hand on the back of LeFou’s ear, kissing it gently before whispering to him. “My turn.”

LeFou held onto Gaston to keep from swooning to the point of fainting.

 “I love how innocent and adorable you are.” Gaston told him. “And yet how you manage to be so naughty at the same time.”

LeFou burst out in an embarrassed giggle, warmth spreading across his cheeks.

“I love the way you do your hair and only take it down when you're at the tavern or home.” Gaston moved a hand through his hair to his red ribbon. “I love the gap between your teeth.” He said, making the shorter man blush self consciously as he handed him the flowers. “I love your bright, light brown eyes that reveal your very deepest desires.”

LeFou looked up to Gaston, sometimes he wasn’t sure that was a good thing.

“I love your soft, delicate hands.” Gaston took one of LeFou’s hands in his. “And the way you dance.” He twirled him so naturally. “You drive me wild.” Gaston narrowed his gaze and LeFou giggled. “I love how loyal you are. I could never depend on anyone more. I love your beautiful, high voice when you sing.” To that, they both laughed. “And the way you coo over baby animals and every adorable thing you see.” Gaston let out a breath, his love evident in his eyes and voice. “It’s a wonder you don’t admire yourself in the mirror every morning as I do.”

LeFou laughed, a blush coming over his cheeks. “Oh, Gaston.” He giggled, at last giving into the desire to lean into his arms.

“And last, but not least.” Gaston ran his hands over him. “I love your body.” He whispered. “Your perfect, ivory skin and your delicious lips.” Gaston kissed LeFou again.

LeFou was so swept away by the magnificence that was Gaston, that tears came to his eyes. “I love you so much, Gaston.” LeFou put the flowers on the end table for placing in a vase later and wrapped his arms around Gaston’s neck.

“I love you, more wildly than ever.” Gaston pulled him into another kiss, before allowing the towel to drop from his waist.

The End

Chapter Text

Little Brown Coat

Gaston emptied the remaining ashes from the fireplace into a bucket and wiped his hands off on a rag. With a handheld broom, he swept the rest into a pan and dumped the ashes outside, into the fresh spring air. He could hear LeFou singing upstairs, his high voice piercing a note most men could never dream of reaching. Gaston smiled as he went to the kitchen to get some water. He adored the little man more than he could ever put into words.  

LeFou stopped singing when he became distracted by a small chest in the back of the top shelf in his wardrobe, one he hadn’t gone through in years. He had been organising clothes and cleaning stuff upstairs all morning and decided this would be the last of the spring cleaning until he had a decent break. After all, it would be lunchtime soon. maybe he and Gaston could swing by the tavern so they wouldn’t have to spend time making and cleaning up after a meal.

LeFou reached up and tried to pull the chest down, but it was just about an inch out of reach. With a sigh he walked to the door and poked his head out, listening to see if Gaston was inside. “Gaston?” He called. Of course he could use the footstool, but requesting help from the Captain was more fun. “Could I borrow your beautiful tall body for a moment?” He chirped.

“I’ll be right there my love.” Gaston yelled from downstairs. LeFou could hear him doing something in the kitchen. He must be getting hungry.

“Let’s go to the tavern for lunch.” Gaston yelled, clearly unable to find anything fast to eat that he wanted.

LeFou giggled to himself, after all these years living together, they were starting to think alike. “I’ll get ready then.” LeFou yelled back, not caring anymore about the chest in the wardrobe. He laid out a fresh pair of clothes on the bed and took off his shirt and trousers just as Gaston walked into the room, an eyebrow raised when he saw him.

“What exactly did you need help with?” Gaston asked curiously, getting the wrong idea about why LeFou had requested his ‘beautiful tall body.’

LeFou blushed and pulled the shirt over his body. “Up, there.” pointed towards the shelf. “The chest, I couldn’t reach it but then I decided to get dressed for lunch.” He said, feeling the need to explain himself.

With ease, Gaston took the chest off the shelf and set it by the foot of the bed. Gaston opened the dusty lid to reveal a brown coat, among a few other things. “Look at this, LeFou.” Gaston said, recognizing it immediately. He held up the coat for LeFou to see.

LeFou nearly forgot how exposed he was at the moment and approached Gaston. “It’s the leather coat you gave me when we were boys!” He smiled fondly. It had been ages since he saw it. He touched one of the round buttons fondly, so many memories coming back to him from before the war.

Gaston draped it over LeFou’s shoulders as the shorter man pulled his arms through the sleeves. “It used to be big on me.” LeFou pulled the front around to cover him. “It’s a perfect fit now.”

With a smirk, Gaston observed how attractive LeFou was in nothing but the brown leather and white shirt. He untied LeFou’s ribbon, looking at him as though he had just seen him for the first time.

“Perfect.” Gaston whispered, nearly awestruck. LeFou’s cheeks grow pink as Gaston moved to kiss him, his hands finding his hair.

LeFou relaxed into the kiss they shared as Gaston wrapped his arms around him. How was it that this perfect man could love him so much? Gaston ran his hands over the arms of LeFou’s coat. “You wore this the day I first kissed you, remember?”

“And the day you wanted to teach me to fight.” LeFou added with a giggle. “Oh, that was an eventful day.”  

Gaston looked into the distance with a laugh, remembering their time together so clearly. “That was right before the war.” He reminded him. “What was it, ten years ago now?” Gaston sighed almost mournfully. “How the time slips away so fast.”

LeFou took Gaston’s shirt and pulled him in for another kiss, sensing his spirit growing sad. “Yes, but our love will never die.” He promised as Gaston held him close.

When they parted Gaston touched the side of LeFou’s face tenderly. “As much as I would love to eat you for lunch, I am starving, LeFou.” He said with one more kiss. “And you might want to get trousers on first.”

LeFou laughed at Gaston’s charming and silly manner. “Right away, Captain.”

Gaston pulled on his coat and stood waiting for LeFou in the doorway. “You should wear that coat tonight, before bed.”

“With what? My nightclothes?” LeFou said playfully.

Gaston narrowed his eyes, a smirk on his handsome face. “Or, nothing is always optional.” He winked before leaving the bedroom.

LeFou gaped for a moment and felt his cheeks grow warm. He took off his coat, the idea of what Gaston had just said playing in his mind. Tonight he would definitely put on a show for Gaston, which he knew would have him full of intense desire by the night's end. LeFou bit his bottom lip as he thought about their private time later. With a sigh, he followed after Gaston. How on earth was he going to keep from thinking about this all day long?

The End

Chapter Text

My Ceaseless Admirer

LeFou sat dreamy eyed at the end of the bed, watching as Gaston stood shirtless in front of the mirror, brushing his long black hair. Quietly he took note of all the little details that made Gaston so perfect, his muscles moving with each stroke of the brush. His toned physique, his hairy chest, the cleft in his devilish chin. LeFou sighed as Gaston brought the ribbon around to the back of his neck, pulling the hair together and tying it into a perfect black ribbon. “You look so gorgeous.” LeFou told him.

Gaston smirked and brought his shirt over his shoulders, winking to himself in the mirror. “I know, LeFou.” He told him and smoothed back the front of his hair. Satisfied with how he looked for the day, Gaston turned to LeFou, who was already dressed but his hair still fell over his shoulders, unbound by any ribbon. “And you, my faithful companion, my ceaseless admirer,” Gaston said and walked up to him, running a hand through his soft hair. “My friend, my love.” He added flirtatiously. “You look beautiful.”

LeFou blushed as Gaston touched his face, admiring his beauty now that he was done staring at his own. “What do-” LeFou started and stood up. “You want to do today?” He asked him. “On this beautiful Saturday morning.”

Gaston went to pull on his coat. “Do you need anything from the forest?” Gaston asked him. “A ride sounds nice.”

LeFou thought about it for a moment as he went to tie his hair into a neat red ribbon. “I could use some more herbs.” LeFou told him.

Gaston went downstairs and took their hats, placing one of them on LeFou’s head when he walked into the room, a picnic basket, and a blanket over his arm. “Adorable as ever.” He told LeFou, who blushed and gave him a quick kiss before they went outside into the summer air to fetch the horses. Jaques was just letting the dogs out on this early morning, and Will brushing the horses when Gaston and LeFou walked into the stables.

“Bonjour messieurs.” Will said and bowed his head with a smile to his older friends.

Gaston clapped Will on the back and went to take his saddle. “Bonjour, lovely day out, isn’t it?” Gaston said and Will led Gaston’s horse into the middle of the stables.

“It really is.” Will said.

“Did you have a good night?” LeFou asked sweetly.

Will laughed and went to fetch LeFou’s horse as soon as Gaston took over saddling up his own. “A good night, yes. Not a lot of sleep though. Stanley and I stayed over at Tom and Dick’s last night. You know how they never sleep.” He told them.

Gaston smirked. “Sleep is for the dead.” He laughed.

LeFou shook his head and waited for Will to throw the saddle on his horse for him before strapping his belongings onto the horse. “It’s the war hero mentality.” LeFou told Will and he laughed.

LeFou and Gaston mounted their horses, ready to stop by the tavern for some food before they set off to the forest. “Have a good day you two, don’t get into any trouble without us.” Will told them.

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Gaston smirked and LeFou waved him off before they left the stables.

“Bonjour, Jaques!” Gaston said to the boy in the yard, as he fed the dogs in groups of four.

Jaques looked up with a smile. “Bonjour, Captain! Lieutenant!” He waved as the two men rode by. LeFou smiled happily and then turned to Gaston, the sun was hitting him just right, making him look incredibly magnificent and devastatingly attractive. It was just another beautiful morning in their village, the two of them, side by side. The villagers would be rising soon, and when they returned the village would be alive with activity.

LeFou left his horse and went into the tavern, getting them some breakfast put in the picnic basket, before returning to Gaston. As the villagers rose from their beds and opened their windows, allowing the breeze inside as they readied for the day, they could hear the huntsman and his right hand man singing a song together as they made their way out of town. This was not only a common thing, but it reminded them that Gaston, the leader of their village would always be around to keep them safe and lead them into a great future.

The End  

Chapter Text

Never Let You Go

Gaston ducked behind the hill as a defining explosion erupted from the earth. In the very spot where he and LeFou had just been fighting. His heartbeat seemed to match that of a rabbit. That was close, far too close. The sound of another canon blasted through the air, followed by intense ringing in his ears.
“Gaston! We have to get back to camp!” LeFou cried, gripping his gun as though his life depended on it. And it did.
The Captain peaked over just enough to see it was clear on the other side. “On my ready!” He yelled, waiting for the perfect moment. They would have to go back to base, as they were clearly to outnumbered. Gaston gave the signal and they rushed through the forest, dodging another bullet as bark exploded from the tree in front of them.
Out of nowhere, a soldier in blue came dashing through the forest. He drew his gun at LeFou when he saw them. Before he could fire, Gaston blew a hole in his chest and looked to LeFou with a silent promise. He would always keep him safe. Together they continued running through the forest.
When they arrived, the camp was on fire. Their comrades were just running back from the forest as well when another explosion sounded. “Get more ammo!” Gaston drew his sword. “Lieutenant, call for more reinforcements!” Gaston ordered before he turned to fight a man who just emerged from the forest.
LeFou hurried to pull an explosive from his jacket and lit it just as the soldier fighting Gaston dropped to the ground, his head barely attached to his neck as it rolled to his shoulder. The sight made him want to vomit.
With a cry, LeFou threw the stick high into the air and watched as it shot up into the sky, shooting so far up that anyone within 20 miles would be able to see it as it exploded into an array of colours.
“Done, Captain!” LeFou pulled out his sword as two more men ran up to fight them.
Gaston ran one through with his sword, while LeFou’s blade clashed with the other’s. With a groan, LeFou pulled back, dodging a blow with the skill that could have only been learned by Gaston. He swung the blade with all his might, killing the man instantly.
Gaston nodded his approval before taking off in the direction towards another group of enemy soldiers. LeFou ran beside him, with one intention. To kill.
Gaston brought his sword down upon a lad no older than himself, barely seventeen, and tried not to think about the fear he saw in his eyes the moment before he cut him down. With a spin, he clashed blades with another man, this one much older, and ran him through also.
A scream from LeFou brought Gaston from his fighting trance. His heart nearly stopped as a soldier towered over the shorter man, preparing a killing blow. LeFou ducked, giving Gaston the second he needed to attack, killing the other soldier from behind.
“Stay close to me!” Gaston screamed, though not out of anger. His heart stopped when he saw LeFou holding his side. Blood had begun to soak LeFou’s shirt. He had been stabbed. Gaston yelled out for his friend, unable to hear himself this time, through the gunshots, screams, and clanking of swords. The ringing in his ears started again as LeFou collapsed in Gaston’s arms.
Smoke filled the air as everything but LeFou disappeared around him. “Stay with me, Lieutenant.” Gaston told him frantically.
LeFou struggled to breathe, his face twisting in pain. “Gaston…I…” LeFou whimpered.
Gaston applied pressure to the wound. “You’re going to be alright, LeFou, just keep breathing. I’ll get you back to camp.”
LeFou looked fearfully into the Captain’s eyes. “Gaston, I don’t want to die, I don’t want to leave you.” He cried, nearly choking on the words.
He was dying, Gaston could see it, but he didn’t want to believe it. “No, no, LeFou. Please. I won’t let you go.” Gaston held tight to him. “You’re going to make it.” He promised, holding his hand. But no, it was too late. The wound was too deep.
“I… I love you, Gaston. I..” LeFou began to choke on his own blood as pain etched his face.
Gaston’s whole world exploded as LeFou’s eyes went blank. His hand going limp. It was too late, he had failed.
Gaston let out a defining roar, holding LeFou as tight as he could in his arms. He rocked him as he wept, not caring if another soldier ended him there. He might as well die, next to LeFou. Because without him there was no reason to keep breathing. LeFou was gone.

***

LeFou woke as something hit his ribcage. He felt Gaston roll over onto his side, muttering words he didn’t understand. Gaston cried out, an agony gripping his soul.
“Gaston?” LeFou sat up, but Gaston couldn’t hear anything but what was going on inside his head. LeFou hurried to grab the tinderbox and lit the lantern on his nightstand. The glow of light filled the room as he set the glass chimney on top of it.
“Honey, wake up. It’s only a dream.” LeFou put his hands on the Captain’s shoulder. He shook him gently. “Gaston? I’m here.” Gaston rolled over to his back. He was covered in sweat. A look of relief came to his face when he saw LeFou and realised they were home.
“You were having a nightmare.” LeFou ran a hand in circles over his chest.
Gaston let out a ragged breath and put his hand in LeFou’s lap for him to take. Gaston pinched his brow, his mind a whirl of the recent storm.
“Was it about the war?” LeFou asked.
Gaston looked up at LeFou and pulled him close, holding him. “Yes, but it was only a dream.” He assured LeFou as much as himself. “I dreamt I lost you.”
“I’ve had dreams like that too, but you would never let that happen to me, my love.” LeFou kissed his cheek.
Gaston snuggled him closer, feeling better already. “I would never.” He agreed. “Oh, LeFou. I could never let you go.” He resisted the urge to cry as he helped him. It was only a silly dream. LeFou was here. And they were home. “I love you, so much, LeFou.”
“I love you too, Gaston.” LeFou sat up, and ran a hand over his forehead, soothing him.
Gaston’s eyes turned to the window. It was still very dark, yet a shadow of blue could be seen in the sky. Sitting up, he kissed LeFou and got out of bed.  
“Where are you going?” LeFou asked the huntsman with an adorable tilt of his head.
“Hunting. I need to kill something.” Gaston nodded to the window as he began to change into his clothes. “It will be light in a few hours.”
LeFou wasn’t at all surprised by the captain’s sudden spontaneousness. “Do you want me to come with you?”
Gaston ran his fingers through his hair. “Yes.” He said as he took a black ribbon. “I would be lost without my Lieutenant.”
 
The End    

Chapter Text

The Criminal Ghost

Fire crackled and popped in the hearth, as LeFou sipped his late afternoon tea, very much enjoying the book he was reading. Gaston sat forward in the chair next to him, focusing on the sharpening of his daggers. His mind wandered almost aimlessly in the peaceful space between them.

“LeFou, do you remember that dagger I gave you when we were lads?” Gaston asked. “The first one, with the gold hilt and sheath.”

LeFou looked up from his book, his mind drifting from his reading to Gaston’s question. “Yes, I remember.” LeFou watched as Gaston sliced one blade against the other. “I still have it, it’s either in my room hear, or at the cottage.”

Gaston hummed and carefully felt the tip of his sharpened blade. “There’s just something so unforgettable about your first weapon.” He told LeFou. “I was barely seven when my father gave me my first sword. There were plenty of daggers before but nothing matched the brilliance of that blade. The craftsmanship, and the way it felt in my hands.”

“I remember that day. You kept showing off.” LeFou brightened. “For weeks, I remember! You said you were a real man now because you no longer had a wooden practice sword.”

Gaston chuckled playfully. “A real man at seven, I really am a legend.”

“I thought you were.” LeFou said before returning to his book.

Silence filled the space again, until the sound of footsteps brought them both from their reading and blade sharpening.

After two raps on the door, Gaston set his daggers down on the mantelpiece. LeFou looked up, then, glad Gaston was letting him read, returned to his book.

Gaston opened the front door to reveal Deon, one of the younger village residents. “Hello, son, what brings you here?” Gaston asked, in the habit of calling young lads that, just as his father used to.

“Good afternoon, monsieur.” Deon removed his hat. “Our neighbours have been having a um.. slight problem.” He hesitated, as though he were concerned about going further into detail.

Gaston furrowed his brow, listening to what the young man had to say. “What seems to be the problem?” He asked, lifting an eyebrow.

Deon cleared his throat. “They say they are having a ghost problem.” He narrowed his eyes, unsure of what the Captain would say in response to that.

“Gaston? Who’s at the…” LeFou stopped at the door when he saw Deon. “Oh, Deon! Hello.” He beamed.

Deon waved cheerfully. “Hello, LeFou.”

“How is everything?” LeFou smiled happily. “Are Mae and the new baby well?”

Deon lit up as soon as he mentioned the new addition to their family. “They both are. Little Molly is growing more every day. She is an image of her mother.”

As LeFou and Deon conversed, Gaston was still thinking of the ghost that couldn’t possibly be real. He pulled open the door for Deon to come inside politely. “Please, come in, my friend.” The huntsman led the way to the couch in the living quarters. “Now what were you saying about this ghost?”

LeFou gave Gaston an odd look. “A ghost?”

“Yes.” Deon sat down across from LeFou and Gaston. “You see, our neighbours, Paquier and Emelot. They believe a ghost is haunting their food cellar.”

LeFou and Gaston shared a look, clearly transpiring in conversation without using words.

“Food keeps going missing. They say they hear voices at night and thumps below, but when Paquier goes down to check, no one is there.”

LeFou’s mouth hung open. He was sightly disturbed by the idea of a ghost in Villeneuve, though he didn’t really believe in such things, did he?

“They asked us about it this morning, to see if we knew anything about thieves.” Deon said. “But thieves in Villeneuve? How unlikely.”

“Not as unlikely as a ghost in the village.” Gaston stated, crossing his arms and leaning back in his seat.

“Stranger things have happened monsieur.” Deon said meekly.

“How long ago did they say the noises have been happening?” LeFou asked.

“Little over a week.” Deon told them. “When they came to us, we went to inspect but saw nothing. Mae wondered if you would be able to help them figure out what’s going on.”

Gaston nodded, pursing his lips as he looked to LeFou, an eyebrow raised. It was hero time. “Yes, of course. We would be happy to help and see what is really going on.” Gaston stood up, prompting the other two men to stand as well.

“We will?” LeFou asked, fearing things like ghosts. But he quickly remembered that May and Deon were friends and they should help. “We will.” LeFou said quickly, as Gaston shot him a look.

With that, the three of them went to the cottage next to Mae and Deon’s. It was a small place, just on the edge of the village. LeFou followed Gaston up to the front and stood patiently behind him as Dion knocked.

An older woman opened the door and smiled when she saw the three men. “Oh, hello, dears.” The woman said with a cheery smile, looking to Deon. “My husband said you might be bringing the war heroes by later. But Paquier isn’t here at the moment. He had to run a few errands. He’ll be back later and you can speak with him. We’ve been having the most unusual problem.”

Emelot led into the living quarters. “Thank you so much for taking the time out today, Captain.” She said. “I know at your age life is just so busy.”

“Just doing our duty madame.” Gaston said. “Helping our fellow neighbours. Not anything unlike what my father would have done.”

“Oh, yes, dear Gustave.” The old lady chimed, giving Gaston a reminiscent look. “Such a wonderful man. Gone far too early. How like him you are.” She reached out to teach the sleeve of Gaston’s red coat.

LeFou’s eyes widened and Gaston cleared his throat. “Yes, well, um, about this ghost.” Gaston changed the subject quickly.

“Ah, yes.” Emelot nodded. “The ghost.” She picked up a tray of scones from the table and held it out to them. “Would any of you care for a sweet, dears? They are just freshly baked.”

Deon smiled at the older woman lovingly. “I am afraid I must go, my wife is waiting for me at home. But thank you, and best of luck.” He nodded to Gaston and LeFou.

Emelot took Deon’s arm sweetly, patting it as though he were her son. “Oh alright, dear. At least take a few of these scones first.” She insisted.

“Alright, thank you, madam.” He said kindly, and took a few of the scones before heading out the door.

“Now, we shall talk.” Emelot sat the scones on the table. “And you two sit down and eat up before the rest of these go to waste.”

“Thank you, they look delicious.” LeFou sat down with Gaston, both of them taking a scone to appease the older lady.

Emelot nodded, observing the two in their clothes of red and beige and their similar hairstyles. “You two could be mistaken for brothers you know, are you sure you’re not related?” She teased them.

A deep red crossed over LeFou’s face. Gaston nearly choked as he ate the scone.

“I certainly hope not.” LeFou blurted.

“No, we are not brothers.” Gaston gave LeFou a humorous look before leaning forward. “Now, tell us about this ghost.”

Once Emelot explained in detail, the same thing Dion had told them earlier, she took them downstairs into the cellar. It was mostly dark, with a single window and thin staircase leading back up to the outside of the cottage.

Gaston didn’t see any immediate way for small animals to break into the cellar. Someone could have come through that door in the middle of the night, but who? As the older lady chatted on he looked about the room, making it his business.

There were barrels, some empty and some filled with various goods. Shelves full of vegetables and meat, probably of which he killed and smoked himself.

“It was the cheese that was taken the first night.” Emelot explained. “And then a few loaves of bread that we got that very day from the baker. And olives that were imported from Rome years ago, gone missing in a single night. And last night it was a whole stack of meat.” She pointed to the empty spaces where the missing food had been.

“You said you heard voices?” Gaston asked, looking behind a set of shelves and drapes, searching for evidence.

“Yes, in the night. Not just me but my husband also.” Emelot crossed her arms over her waist. “The voices of children it sounded like, but when my husband came down there was no one to be found. And the door was still locked.

LeFou shared a fearful look with Gaston. “It has to be human, then? Right? The thief.”

“Or thieves.” Gaston agreed, and nodded as though some agreement had just passed between them. “Then there is only one thing for us to do, Madam Emelot. Tonight, LeFou and I shall stand watch and get to the bottom of this.”  

LeFou’s mouth fell open before he remembered to close it quickly and be brave like Gaston. He pursed his lips and stepped closer to the Captain. “We will find your ghost madam.” But of course, he didn’t believe they were real ghosts. He reminded himself.  

“Gaston, what do you think it is?” LeFou asked as they walked away from the cottage. “It can’t really be a ghost, can it? I mean ghosts don’t exist.”

“Of course they don’t, LeFou.” Gaston said with mirth in his eyes. He waved to a villager passing by. “That window is too small for anyone to crawl through. Even perhaps a child. It could be an animal.”

“But she said she heard voices. And if it was an animal, wouldn’t it have made more of a mess than there was?”

Gaston was impressed. LeFou always was the real sleuth between the two of them. “That’s right, LeFou. She didn’t say anything about a mess being made, did she? We make a good team, LeFou.”   

LeFou hummed happily and looped his arm in Gaston’s. “We do, don’t we?”

“Maybe we are brothers.” Gaston teased, shaking his head with mirth.

LeFou burst out a laugh. “To imagine, Gaston.”

Gaston rolled his eyes. “We are absolutely nothing alike. At least not by blood.”

“Though I can’t say I wouldn’t rather of been raised by your father.” LeFou admitted.

“You practically were.” Gaston said as they approached the tavern. “Hungry?”

“Famished.” LeFou piped. “All that thinking builds up an appetite.” Together, they entered the tavern, taking a break from the troubles of the villagers.

When dusk came, Gaston and LeFou made their way back to the cottage. Paquier greeted them and left them alone to see what the captain and his lieutenant could find. Together they sat alone in the dark, underneath the stairs, waiting for the culprit to show himself.

Gaston half wondered if the older couple had simply imagined voices. But then, as LeFou said, there was no mess so how could it be an animal? What ever it was had the sense not to leave much evidence. But how could a child fit through that window? And the door was locked.

LeFou adjusted in the dark, growing uncomfortable, despite the blanket under them. Gaston leaned against the wall and moved so LeFou could rest against him.

“Your heart is beating fast.” LeFou whispered.

Gaston wrapped an arm around him. “It’s exciting, don’t you think?”

“And a little frightening.” LeFou added.

“Those seem to come hand in hand.” Gaston whispered.

LeFou nodded his agreement, almost afraid to speak much more, lest they scare away whatever it was that had been stealing from Emelot and Paquier. He relaxed next to Gaston, waiting in the moonlit darkness. Just when he started to think nothing was going to happen, there was a creak at the window.

Gaston tensed, hearing it too. He grew more conscious of the gun at his side and didn’t move, not wanting to risk making a sound and alerting the thief. It wasn’t a ghost, he reminded himself. Unless ghosts knew how to open windows.  

LeFou tensed, though having Gaston so close brought him comfort. The moon was barely bright enough to cast a light upon the narrow window, as it opened inward. There was certainly no way any human could get through that small space.  

Silent as a mouse, a small form slipped through the window that wasn’t at all human, though it appeared to have a human like structure.

“Hurry, Bandit!” A child’s voice whispered outside.

Gaston peered at the figure climbing down the wall onto the pantry shelf. LeFou covered his mouth to keep from making any fearful noises. Acting quickly, Gaston stood up. They had found the culprit.

Screaming, a monkey ran back up the wall to the window when it saw Gaston and slipped behind the glass.

Gaston ran up the stairs and burst through the door with hardly a few seconds passing. There, ran a boy in the night, barely seen from beneath the moon. Eyes fixed on his target, Gaston ran after him, catching up so fast it was almost too easy.

Gaston grabbed the boy at full speed, the impact causing both to fall to the ground. The monkey shrieked as it ran off into the distance, as the boy yelled out beneath Gaston, kicking and hitting with all his might as Gaston pinned him down.

The captain assessed the struggling form beneath him, surprised to see just how young the boy actually was. His light brown hair was cut short and his freckled face was dirty.

“Let me go! Let me go!” The boy yelled, drawing the attention of the villagers nearby. A light flickered on in several windows.

“Calm down, child.” Gaston said calmly. “I won’t hurt you.” He stood up, pulling the fighting boy with him, his grip tight against him.

The boy tried to kick but Gaston avoided it by changing the child’s angle. “Calm down, son.”  

“I’m not your son!” The boy struggled, squealing with all his might against Gaston’s grip.

“No, you’re not. And if you were I would give you a good thrashing for stealing.” Gaston jerked him a bit, annoyed with his struggle.

“You don’t touch me!” The boy fought relentlessly against his captor.

Paquier and LeFou followed shortly, a lantern carried between them. LeFou’s eyes widened at the state of the boy in the grip of Gaston. He was just a child, and his clothes looked like they were the only ones he had.

When the boy saw the other two men his blue eyes filled with fear. “Let me go or I’ll burn your houses down while you sleep!” He bared his teeth as he yelled.

Gaston hit him upside the head for that comment, and the boy tried to bite him but failed. “Come on.” Gaston said as he noticed one villager looking outside their window. “Let’s take him somewhere more private.”

“So this is the thief.” Paquier walked beside the huntsman and his companion, opening the front door for them when they arrived. “Boy, do you have a home?”

“I won’t tell you nothing!” The boy snarled, resisting going inside, but Gaston forced him in despite.

“He clearly doesn't have a school either.” Gaston said with a smirk at LeFou, who pursed his lips, a mix of emotions playing on his face.

“School is for rich bastards like yourselves!” The boy yelled.

“Let’s take him into the basement. Emelot is sleeping.” Paquier insisted.

Terror flashed in the boy's eyes, and he fought harder, to no avail.

Gaston forced him into a chair as Paquier lit multiple lights in the basement. LeFou stood beside Gaston.

Gaston stood in front, ready to catch him if he darted. The boy seemed to know he was captive now and didn’t move. “Now, you are going to tell us who you are, first.”

“No, I won't.” The boy spat on the floor.

Gaston sighed heavily, crossing his arms. He shared an almost humoured look with LeFou. Paquier watched on quietly.

“You will.” Gaston insisted. “No one gets away with stealing from the people of this village.”

“I did!” The boy scowled. “Until now, that is. But if you wouldn’t have been hiding like a coward I would have!”

Gaston clenched his jaw, suddenly wanting very badly to hit this boy.

“Honey, just tell us where you came from.” LeFou said sweetly, taking a different approach.  

The boy glared at LeFou. “You sound like a girl.”

Gaston lunged forward, grabbing the arms of the chair, terrifying the boy into silence. “Listen to me. You are going to tell us everything. Where you came from, who your parents are and your name. Are we clear?”

“Go to hell.” The child faced him bravely, despite how scared he was.

“Oh dear.” LeFou backed up and sat down on the stairs. It was Gaston who would be taking full control now.

Gaston stood up and nodded as if making a decision. The boy leaned back in his chair, afraid of what might happen next but refusing to show his feelings. “Paquier, fetch one of your belts.”

The boy's eyes widened, his breathing increasing. He looked at the stairs and the door, clearly trying to plan an escape.

“Yes, Captain.” Paquier left the room.

Gaston crouched down at the boy's level. “Now listen to me. You still have a way out of this. You can calmly tell us why you were stealing from this nice older family, or, you can take a good thrashing, and then you can tell us.”

The boy went silent, sweat beading on his forehead.

“Stealing is wrong, child. And you already deserve a pounding just for that. But I know you probably have your reasons. Tell us nicely about yourself, and I will spare you.”

The boy shook his head stubbornly.

“What is your name?” Gaston said gently.

The boy kicked as hard as he could, knocking Gaston in the shin. Gaston grit his teeth in anger, though he was hardly phased. The boy made a run for it, but didn’t make it far as LeFou stood up, blocking his path, and Gaston grabbed him from behind. The boy struggled, fighting with all he was worth.

Paquier returned with the belt a moment later.

“You asked for it.” Gaston said and jerked the boy around and over the chair. He yanked the boy's filthy trousers down as the child fought fiercely. Gaston froze when he saw small white scars on his legs. It made him want to back out of this altogether. But no, he had to go on.

“The belt, Paquier.” Gaston held out his hand.

“No! Don’t touch me!” The boy yelled, his voice holding more fear than he meant to show.

“It’s too late for begging, son.” Gaston said regretfully.

“I’m sorry! I won’t steal from this village again! I won’t!” The boy struggled against Gaston holding him down across the chair.

“No, you won’t.” Gaston looked at LeFou, who was covering his mouth in distress. “LeFou, you can leave if you want.”

LeFou put his hand down and shook his head. “I’m by your side Captain.”

Gaston nodded, sharing a look of understanding with LeFou before turning his attention back to the boy. “I too had many lessons like this with my father.” Gaston told the boy. “Just less fighting on my end. You know why?”

The boy grunted in response, panting frantically.

“Because my father was a good man. He taught me right from wrong. And stealing is wrong. Disrespecting your elders is wrong.”

“There are no good men.” The boy muttered, heartbreak in his voice.

Gaston let out a breath, feeling pity for the boy. “I’ll give you ten, and you are to count, are we understood?” He ordered.

“No, I won’t!” The boy was not going to give in.

“Then I’ll keep going until you start counting.” Gaston lifted the belt.

The boy didn’t make a sound for the first two strikes of the belt, despite the sharp smack in the air. By the fifth he began to cry out.

“Do as I say. I’m not going to stop until you obey me.” Gaston laid down another.

The boy yelled out against the next strike, still not counting.

“Or do I need to remove your breeches too?” Gaston said, hoping he wouldn’t push him that far.

“No! Alright! I’ll obey!” The boy yelled.

“Good. Let me hear them.” Gaston brought the belt down, careful not to use too much strength. His goal was not to mutilate the boy but to teach him a lesson. And he regretted the amount he already had to give him.

“One!” The boy cried out, anger in his voice at first. By four his voice held more pain than anger. By seven his voice held the sound of tears, and by ten he was sobbing.

Gaston handed Paquier his belt and let the boy cry over the chair for a moment. He crouched down and took his trousers from the ground. “Here, let’s get you back in these.” He said gently.

The boy wiped at his face and tried to stand, going weak when his feet met the floor. “I can do it myself.” He sobbed and reached for his trousers.

Gaston pursed his lips and allowed him to do it on his own. “Now sit.” He told the boy.

“I would rather stand.” The boy glared at him.

“I said sit.” Gaston gave him a look that seemed to chill the boy's blood, and he obeyed.

“Now tell us your name.” Gaston said gently.

“Ourson.” The boy said obediently, getting hold of himself.

“Hello, Ourson.” Gaston reached out a hand and the boy looked at him oddly, but then took his hand to shake it.

“I’m Gaston. And this is my companion, LeFou.” He gestured to LeFou. And the man you were stealing from, his name is Paquier. His wife’s name is Emelot.”

The boy crossed his arms, leaning back in his chair a little of his guard going down. This wasn’t normally the way adults behaved when they were done dealing out punishment.

Paquier approached next to the captain. “Son, why were you stealing from us? Did you not think you could come to someone for help if you were hungry?”

The boy looked down. “I did it because I can’t hunt.”

Gaston shared a sympathetic look with LeFou. “Where did you come from, Ourson?”

“Paris.” The boy spilt easily now.

“Do you have parents, in Paris, honey?” LeFou asked sweetly.

Ourson looked up, a wall of distrust in his eyes. “No, they're dead.”

Gaston narrowed his eyes, he could almost always tell when someone was lying. “Son, tell us the truth.”

The boy bit his bottom lip. “My mama’s been dead since I was three.”

Gaston could tell the child was trying not to cry. “And your father?”

“Please don’t make me go back.” The boy begged, bursting into tears. “Please, mousier, he…” The boy stopped, his breath building with panic.

Gaston placed a hand on the boy's leg. “It’s alright, we won’t make you. I promise.”

The boy froze at his touch, confused by it. “Adults don’t keep promises.”

Gaston removed his hand, seeing that it caused him to fear more. “The adults in Villeneuve do.” He told him. “You’ll see that with time.”

Ourson swallowed hard. “With time? What do you mean?”

“Well you don’t expect us to throw you out to the wolves, now do you?” Gaston asked, furrowing his brow. The boy's lack of an answer troubled the adults in the room.

“How old are you?” Gaston asked him, changing the subject.

“How old are you?” The boy spat back, but not overly aggressively.

Gaston chuckled at the boy's spirit. He might as well play along to help him feel more comfortable. “I am twenty nine.”

“I’m eight.” The boy said then.

“Eight?” LeFou gasped.

“I look older.” The boy crossed his arms.

It was getting late. And the boy could use a bath before bed. “Are you hungry?” Gaston asked him.

The boy hesitated before nodding.

Gaston stood up and looked at Paquier. “I’ll take him home and feed him and draw him a bath.”

Paquier nodded. “Thank you, Captain.”

“Can you follow me home, or do I need to drag you along?” Gaston asked the lad.

“I’ll follow you.” Ourson said unhappily.

“Good, come on then.” Gaston nodded to the older man, and LeFou followed quietly.

When Ourson stopped outside the front door, Gaston wondered if he would try to run again. Instead, he stood turning his head from side to side.

LeFou noticed too and was the first to speak. “Is it your pet you are looking for?” He asked gently.

The question alone made the boy shoot LeFou a defensive glare. “Bandit is my friend.”

Gaston snorted. “Appropriate name.” He raised an eyebrow at LeFou.

“I need to find him.” Ourson’s eyes turned to pleading.

Gaston looked away from the boy with a sigh, peering out into the night. What were the odds of finding a monkey at night? He could of course but not in the way the boy would much like. And it certainly wouldn’t earn his trust. “Will he come if you call?”

The boy nodded. “You won’t hurt him?”

“We won’t hurt him.” Gaston agreed. When the boy looked like he didn’t believe him, Gaston held out his hand. “You have my word.”

Ourson swallowed a lump in his throat and took a step of bravery to shake Gaston’s hand. Putting his hands to his face he made a sound that was similar to a whistle.

LeFou gasped when a monkey came running up to the boy's shoulder.

“You have him well trained.” Gaston said with a friendly nod.

“Are you going to make me go back?” Ourson said with a frown. Gaston and LeFou shared a look.

“No, son.” Gaston said gently. The lad seemed to be flooded with relief. “Let’s get you back to my cottage, and we’ll figure things out tomorrow, alright?”

The monkey squeaked on top of the boy's shoulder, curious about the other two men. Ourson stroked the creature, earning his attention. “It’s okay, Bandit.” He reassured him, though he was still unsure himself as he followed the two men home.   

Gaston sat at the fire late that night. After the boy was taken care of and put to bed. LeFou joined him with two cups of steaming tea, preparing themselves for a good night's rest. Especially after all the madness of tonight.

“What are you thinking, Captain?” LeFou asked, sitting beside him.

Gaston removed his hand from his chin and took the tea meant for him. “We’ll have to find someone to take the boy.” He revealed one of his concerns. “We can’t very well let him back on the streets. And his father…” Gaston clenched his fist. “He doesn’t seem of good character.”

“No, he doesn’t.” LeFou agreed, shaking his head. “Gaston?” He tilted his head. “Do you think Paquier and Emelot would want to take him in?”

Gaston huffed. “After he stole from them?”

LeFou raised his eyebrows. “But they were never able to have children, and this boy needs a home. It does seem funny that he chose their house to still from. As though maybe it were…”

“Fate?” Gaston asked, thinking it over.

LeFou shrugged. “We could see if they wanted to, at least. If not we can look somewhere else.”

Gaston rubbed his chin, formulating an idea. “Tomorrow I will send the boy over to Paquier, to work off the debt he owes him from stealing. After a few days, we’ll see if they grow fond of each other. And I’ll explain the situation to them. If they aren’t interested, we’ll find someone who will take him.” Gaston looked toward the stairs, unaware that the boy had snuck down to listen at the steps. “But either way, I’m keeping my word. We're not sending him back to someone who will just mistreat him more.”

“He would just end up running away again.” LeFou agreed and took Gaston’s hand. “You're a good man, Gaston.”

Gaston caressed the smooth hand in his. “And yet I do believe you are right, LeFou. I think Paquier and Emelot will take well to him.”

And to Gaston and LeFou’s satisfaction, as time passed, they did. And Ourson became another one of the village lads, to grow up, and admire the Captain and his Lieutenant just like everyone else. It was one of another many happily ever afters.

The End

Chapter Text

Never Enough

The tavern was aglo with firelight that night. It was the last breath of summer before autumn brought in the cold seasons. Gaston watched the flames flicker in the hearth. A candle next to him dwindled down to almost nothing. Most of the villagers had gone home, and LeFou sat as always, dutifully beside him. It was the last time they would spend an evening at the tavern for a few months until Gaston and LeFou returned home from the autumn hunt.

LeFou set his mug on a table beside him. He stretched his legs, not accidentally rubbing his shoe against Gaston’s boot as he did so. Even the smallest amounts of contact made him happy. Especially when they so often had to act in subtle gestures.

The corner of Gaston’s mouth curved into a smile, knowing the touch for what it was. He stretched his legs out and put either boot on each side of LeFou’s shoes, holding his legs with his own. He revelled in the fact that it was making LeFou blush. He couldn’t wait to get him alone in the forest for months.

Gaston tightened his hold against LeFou and winked when he looked at him. The sound of dishes clanking and the crackle of fire filled the air, along with LeFou’s squeaks when Gaston leaned forward, just far enough to pinch his leg playfully.

“Gaston!” LeFou whispered and leaned forward, he could have kissed him if he just moved another two inches.

That’s when it became a game to Gaston. He looked at LeFou’s lips and touched them with his finger, brushing aside an invisible something that wasn’t really there.

LeFou closed his eyes, losing control of his desire to stay secret. He moved closer and frowned when Gaston leaned back into his chair, playing oblivious.

“Captain?” LeFou said with a high chirp. “Are you um… ready to go back to the cottage?”

Gaston raised an eyebrow. “What makes you so eager to go back, LeFou?”

“Well, I thought… uh..” LeFou swallowed hard, looking around to see if anyone was watching. He scooted his stool next to Gaston and leaned into him.

“I like it here.” Gaston teased, and took hold of LeFou’s ear, rubbing it slightly.

LeFou tilted his head, unable to hold back the moan that escaped from his lips.

“Shh.” Gaston warned.

LeFou winced. “Sorry.”

Gaston reached for LeFou’s hands and held them both in his. “Let’s talk about the hunting trip. Are you excited for it this year?”

LeFou nodded vigorously. “You’ll be excellent, Gaston. The deer must all go in hiding when autumn comes.”

Gaston moved his hand across LeFou’s lap to his knee. “I’m always excellent.”

“Yes.” LeFou furrowed his brow at the touch. “I mean uh, yes, yes you are, Gaston. You are amazing, incredible, the best, the man among…”

“It’s easy, LeFou.” Gaston smirked. He moved his fingers up to meet LeFou’s round face. “You just take an arrow from the quiver, pull back…” Gaston ran his finger into LeFou’s hair, making him lean closer to the point of almost being in Gaston’s lap. “And then fire!”

LeFou jumped when Gaston’s voice raised slightly. “Oh, Gaston…” He came back to lean against him, hands touching Gaston’s shoulders. “You are so strong.”

Gaston leaned his head back, enjoying LeFou’s touch. He loved bringing LeFou to desperate levels. “Sing for me, LeFou. Dance for me. One last song before we go home, tonight.”

“Your wish is my command, Captain.” LeFou giggled and got up.

Gaston smacked his bum subtly as he did so, bringing a squeak from him.  He watched as LeFou cleared his voice and began to sing, jumping onto the table. When he could no longer stand it he joined him, singing and dancing to LeFou’s latest song. They were hardly able to resist touching each other. When at last they made their way home, they couldn’t seem to get there fast enough.

“Just think of all that alone time in the forest, LeFou.” Gaston said as he unlocked the door.

LeFou squealed in delight. “Oh, Captain, it’ll be wonderful, magical, I’ll be….”

“Unable to walk straight for days.” Gaston pushed open the door. The light of the fireplace greeted them.

LeFou giggled in delight and squeaked when Gaston closed the door with force and enveloped him in his arms. “Oh, Gaston.” He wilted against him.

“I can never get enough of you, LeFou.” Gaston growled, biting the side of his neck. He turned LeFou around to face the wall and pulled down his trousers.

LeFou clung to the wall. “Yes, Gaston, captain, my friend, the…”

Gaston released himself from his bonds and pressed into LeFou, careful not to hurt him. “Love of my life?” Gaston pushed in, groaning as LeFou backed in against him further.

“And hero, my tall dark hero, my prince.” LeFou gasped.

Gaston thrust forward, gently at first and then harder as LeFou’s moans became louder.

“Oh, Gaston, oh, Gaston!” LeFou cried.

Gaston growled, his tension building. “Say it again. Spell it, LeFou.”

“G!” LeFou grunted. “A. S. T.”

Gaston thrust harder with each letter.

“O.” LeFou cried out.

Gaston groaned as he spilt into LeFou, feeling his body tremble beneath him.

“N.” LeFou whimpered, going week. He was sure there was a mess all over the wall now.

Gaston panted, his heart racing. “Come here, my love.” He picked LeFou up into his arms. He kissed his head when he came to lay at his chest.

“That was… Gaston that was…” LeFou whimpered, unable to finish his thoughts.

“I just couldn’t get enough fast enough.” Gaston laid LeFou onto the couch and then joined him. He wrapped his arms around the other man in a warm embrace.

LeFou could only mumble in response, curling up into his arms. Their love wasn’t always that fast paced, but tonight it seemed to have been exactly what they needed.

The End

Chapter Text

The Difference Between

The Captain bowed gracefully, despite the amount of alcohol he had consumed. He kissed the woman’s hand, quite proud of himself for being able to woo even in the less poised state of drunkenness. The woman smiled devilishly and linked her arm tightly around his, following him away from the building.

“Where are we going, Captain?” The woman asked, as though she didn’t know.

Gaston took notice of the bright red paint on her lips. “I have a room at Relais di Vieux.” He thought of LeFou. He would be there waiting. Maybe he would enjoy the extra company for a wild night in Paris. “Friend of mine is there, you’ll like him, we fought in the war together.” Gaston informed her.

“He’s a little fellow but he’s…” Gaston stopped himself from speaking and tried to clear his head. He wasn’t thinking properly. He was going to give something away. “Come on, this way.” Gaston led her towards the Inn.

The woman giggled. “The more the merrier, handsome. An I hope you don’t mean little in his breeches.”

Gaston shook off the wave of dizziness that washed over him as he led the woman to the Inn. “Oh, no.” Gaston felt a slight blush on his face due to her comment. Why was he blushing? Must have been the ale. “He has plenty to go around in his trousers, my lady, no need to worry about that.” Gaston frowned, realising his mistake, how would he know what was in LeFou’s trousers unless he had…

“Evening, Captain.” The Innkeeper said when they walked into the Inn.

Gaston nodded his respects. “Just this way.” He told the woman.

As they reached the upstairs, Gaston pulled the woman into his arms, kissing her as though he were starving. Now he was certain she would never guess he had been with a man before. Not him, not the great Gaston.

The woman gasped and kissed him back, allowing him to lead her to his room.

When they reached the door he intended to stop, but she continued. Unwilling to resist, he ran his hands up her slim body as her very unladylike hands explored at free will.

LeFou, on the other side of the room, was startled by the noise at the door. Until he recognized the drunken moans of Gaston. Though only dressed in his nightclothes, he came to open the door, irritation on his face when he saw the two untangled. “I’ll just go take a walk.” He said so they would notice him.  

“LeFou!” Gaston pulled away from the woman. “This is…” Gaston hesitated and gestured at her instead of saying her name because he couldn’t for the life of him remember. “Well you know, she’s here for the fun.”

The woman smiled seductively, looking over LeFou.

LeFou glared at her, loathing her indecent clothes and smeared red paint that was now mostly on Gaston’s face.

“She’s not your usual type.” LeFou said bitterly. A whore bound to slavery is one thing, LeFou thought. A tragic thing. But being a whore by choice was a whole new level of disgusting.  

“And what is his usual type?” The woman asked, scarcely offended. She heard worse on a regular basis.

Me. LeFou wanted to say but didn’t. “Younger.” He said instead, with a smirk.

The woman glared at him and seemed to detect a hint of jealousy. Before she could respond, Gaston pulled them both into the room. He placed an arm over the shorter man, a smoulder on his face. “This is LeFou. He’s the one I told you about.”

“Multiple times, yes.” The woman crossed her arms.

LeFou took the drunken man by the shoulders, ignoring the way Gaston stared into his eyes when he did so. He was a little afraid he would try to kiss him in front of her. He almost wished he would. “You have your fun, okay? You’re very drunk. I am going for a walk.”

Gaston’s expression turned into a pout. “Don’t go, LeFou. Just try it, for me?” Gaston touched LeFou’s chin. “I want you in this.”  

LeFou sighed, it was working and he hated it. He hoped the woman was intoxicated enough not to remember this the next day. He doubted it. Also, he was sure she wouldn’t care. Likely the tramp saw men together all the time.

“Gaston…this really isn’t…” LeFou was interrupted by the woman, who was growing impatient. She placed one hand on his shoulder and the other on Gaston’s arm.

“Why don’t you two just show me what you’re made of.” She winked at Gaston and began to pull them both towards the bed.

Gaston fell into bed with the woman, kissing her almost sloppily now. LeFou watched, more than just a little annoyed. The huntsman pulled off his shirt and stopped to search for LeFou when he realised he wasn’t joining them.

The woman began to unlace her bodice. “Who’s first?” She asked them.

“Him first.” Gaston held out a hand for LeFou. “LeFou needs all the love he can get.”

LeFou’s face grew hot. Hesitantly he took Gaston’s hand and joined him on the bed.

“You are so gorgeous.” Gaston whispered to LeFou, making him blush more. Especially in front of the woman.

The woman joined them, and ran her hands down LeFou’s chest, going down further as LeFou shifted uncomfortably. Gaston started touching LeFou’s hair and neck as he leaned in to kiss him there. The woman started unbuttoning LeFou’s trousers, as Gaston kissed him, oblivious of everything.

LeFou took Gaston’s hand. “Gaston, no. This is…” LeFou shook his head. “And certainly not with her!”

Gaston looked confused and stopped the woman from mounting the smaller man. “Wait.” He ordered her. “You’re not the one who is going to take him.”

It was the woman’s turn to look confused. “You said him first!”

“Yes, for me! Not you!” Gaston yelled, his protective side coming out.

“Nobody is taking me tonight!” LeFou pulled back, getting off the bed. He buttoned his trousers, remembering what his papa had always said. He was incapable of appreciating the company of women. Sometimes LeFou hated himself for that.

The woman looked annoyed that LeFou had stopped them. Gaston just scowled across the room.

“I’m going out for a walk, I’ll let you finish up here.” LeFou told Gaston and went to fetch his coat.

The woman frowned, shrugged, and then proceeded to take Gaston’s trousers instead.

In irritation, Gaston took her arm, not allowing her to go any further. “LeFou!” He called as his companion walked away. “She wasn’t going to be on top, I was!” He told him, as though that would fix everything.

LeFou frowned, embarrassed as well as uncomfortable. He walked over to Gaston and got close enough to his face that only Gaston could hear him. “I can’t.” He said with finality, frustrated with himself and Gaston. “Don’t ask me to pretend anymore than I already have to.” He snapped.

Gaston took LeFou’s face in his hands. “Just once LeFou? With me. Her soft skin will make you happy, it’s like yours.” He rubbed his thumbs over his cheeks. “You could even top if you wanted. We can do it any way you like it.”

LeFou stared into Gaston’s blue eyes. “Not with her, Gaston.” He pulled away from the huntsman.

Gaston allowed himself to sit back in the middle of the bed, feeling almost rejected by LeFou. Why couldn’t he just have fun for one night? What difference did it make if she was there too?

The woman wrapped her arms around Gaston’s neck from behind and started kissing Gaston’s bare shoulder. She no longer cared as long as she had the captain.  

“I’ll go somewhere until you’re done.” LeFou said in disgust, taking an anxious breath.

“Not alone, in the middle of the night!” Gaston ignored the woman behind him.

“It’s better than being here.” LeFou began to pull on his coat.

Gaston watched in despair as LeFou went for his boots next.

“Ignore him, Captain. We can have our own fun.” The woman whispered and nibbled on his ear.

Gaston growled, and pulled away, turning at once to the woman. “Get dressed.”

“Why?” She asked, offended.

“You have to leave.” Gaston moved further away from her. “Go, now.”

The woman frowned and began to lace up her bodice. “You still have to pay me.”

Gaston got up from the bed and removed a few gold from his drawer beneath the nightstand. The candle on top shook when he slammed it shut again. “Here. Now, get out.” He slapped them into her hand.

LeFou watched the exchange with crossed arms.

Gaston followed the woman to the door and locked it when she left. “I brought her back so we could have a good time, LeFou.” He turned to face him. When LeFou didn’t reply, he went back to the bed, removing his trousers. He got into bed and pulled the blankets over himself.  “Are you joining me?” He asked when the other man didn’t follow.

LeFou pushed back the urge to cry. “You don’t understand, Gaston.” LeFou told him. “I don’t know how to be…like you.”

Gaston glared at him. “It was only one time LeFou, how will you know you don’t like it if you never try?”

LeFou shook his head. “You’re drunk Gaston. Blow out the candle, we’ll talk in the morning.” LeFou joined him in bed, done talking about his inability to feel attracted to women, or the fact that he didn’t feel comfortable in group situations such as the one Gaston brought to their door.

When LeFou lay still, Gaston doused the candle and snuggled up to LeFou. “I am sorry, my love.” He admitted and wrapped LeFou in his arms. “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

LeFou turned into Gaston, his anger fading mostly into sadness.

“Your body is warm.” Gaston nuzzled into LeFou’s neck, relaxing there.

LeFou ran a hand in Gaston’s hair until the captain fell to sleep. LeFou closed his eyes, upset by the ordeal but refusing to let it keep him awake.

LeFou woke early the next morning and got dressed. He went to the flower garden outside the Inn and brought a book with him. He found the perfect spot by a fountain to sit and read, a perfect distraction from last night's events. He read for almost an hour before he looked up to see Gaston walking outside with two mugs.

“Good morning, LeFou. I thought I might find you out here.” The huntsman handed him a mug of coffee.

LeFou took it gratefully and closed his book. “Thank you, Gaston.” He said, surprised he wasn’t still in bed with a headache. He must really be trying to make it up, LeFou thought.

“Do you feel alright?” LeFou asked as Gaston sat down beside him. His hair was fixed neatly and his clothes straight. Very different from the Gaston last night.

“I took a tonic to help with the brain fog.” Gaston paused, thinking about what he wanted to say next. “LeFou, I…last night was a…mistake. I was only trying…” He stopped when he caught himself making an excuse. “I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable, I’m sorry I pushed you into that. I know you can’t like them.”

LeFou paused after sipping a bit of coffee. “It’s not that I don’t like girls, honey. I mean, I do. They are beautiful. But I don’t feel for them the same way you do. And that isn’t ever going to change.”

Gaston nodded, looking down at the ground. “I know, I’m sorry.”

“I’ve tried to be like you Gaston. In that way. But no matter how hard I try, I just… can’t.” LeFou said sadly.

Gaston looked around to be sure no one was watching. He took LeFou’s hand in his. “And last night I didn’t respect that. I did something foolish, LeFou.” He admitted. Something he would have never said to anyone but him. “The way you are… that’s just one of the differences between us. And I love that about you. How I acted last night, that was no way to behave. I’m so sorry.”

LeFou leaned into Gaston for a brief moment. Humility was something seldom seen on the captain. “That’s all I wanted to hear, my love.” He squeezed Gaston’s hand before letting it go. All was forgiven.

As the two sipped their coffee together, LeFou suddenly burst out a laugh.

Gaston looked at him oddly. “What is it LeFou?”

LeFou shook his head. “That poor girl. Did you ever remember her name?”

Gaston winced, a laugh escaping his lips. “No, but she was only a whore. I doubt anyone does remember her name.”

LeFou shook his head. “Oh, Gaston. That’s terrible.”

Gaston shrugged. “At least you know I’m yours, LeFou.”

The End

Chapter Text

Tough Love

The hunter steadied his hand, ready to strike. There was likely a boar rummaging around in the brush. It would run after them as soon as it sensed their presence. Gaston was ready.

LeFou waited from beside the captain like he always did, the anticipation building. He watched Gaston, his arm pulled back with the crossbow. Gaston was always so focused, his eyes gleaming with determination. His brow creased, his hand ready to release the arrow.

Behind them, a squeal pierced the silence. It happened in slow motion as the boar in the brush charged them. LeFou saw Gaston fire the trigger, and turn in a flash to shoot the other one charging from behind.

LeFou screamed as the beast knocked Gaston off his feet with a loud thud to the ground. The boar made a fatal mistake and turned in a circle to charge at him again. Reaching for his gun, Gaston shot the beast in the head, making it slide down to the ground in front of him. Gaston winced in pain from the gash in his leg and set his gun on the ground beside him.

Squealing, the pig from behind wiggled frantically. Gaston’s arrow had stunned and injured it, but now it was trying to get back up. LeFou grabbed Gaston’s sword from his side, and plunged the blade deep into the boar, silencing it.

Gaston knew if it wasn’t for the element of surprise he would have been able to kill each of them on the first shot. Silence settled over them as panted from the adrenalin. As soon as he was sure there were no more, the huntsman began to laugh. LeFou dropped the sword at Gaston’s side, horrified.

“That was wild, LeFou. Well done.” Gaston laughed, holding his leg with his hand. As he tried to move he realised his shoulder was in intense pain as well as his leg.

LeFou knelt to the captain’s side. “Well, we have plenty of boar meat to go around now.” He giggled.

Gaston grimaced, the pain starting to get worse as the adrenalin left his body. “We’ll have a feast with the lads this weekend.” He promised LeFou. “You hear that, boars? That is what happens when you try to beat the mighty Gaston!” He sat up, brushing the leaves from his hair.

“Here, let me see your leg.” LeFou insisted, noting the blood forming. His trousers would need to be stitched later too. LeFou took a white cloth out of his bag and wrapped it as best he could. “We will clean this when we get home.”  

Gaston started to remove his jacket, growling at the pain. “I’ve dislocated my shoulder.” He told him, feeling his own arm.

LeFou moved his fingers delicately over the spot and winced. “Yes, it’s certainly dislocated.”

Gaston leaned back on the opposite arm, allowing LeFou to take over. “It’s alright, it hardly hurts.” He said to make him feel better.

LeFou took a stick from the ground and wiped it off on his trousers. He handed it to Gaston regretfully. “Here honey, bite this.” Gaston took the stick but didn’t use it. It would be over shortly anyway. Readying himself for the pain, he took in steadied breaths.

LeFou knew what to do, and placed his hands in position. With a quick pop, Gaston growled through his teeth. It hurt, but it was good to have his arm feeling normal again. Gaston left the stick on the ground and nodded at LeFou for the job well done.

Gaston got up from the ground and grabbed his sword. He slid it back into its sheath with a smile on his face. “Let’s get these bastards back to the cart, shall we?”

LeFou pulled some rope from his bag. “Are you sure you can pull them with that arm?”

“I’ll be fine, LeFou.” Gaston took the rope and began to tie up the boars.

Though his arm was still throbbing, Gaston pulled them along to the edge of the forest. LeFou followed from behind, watching the limp boars drag along in the dirt. When they reached the cart, Gaston lifted each of them into the cart with a thud.

“Do you feel any better, Gaston?” LeFou placed his hand in his.

“Better already.” Gaston told him with a kiss to the forehead. “I’m fortunate neither of them had very large tusks, they were still young.” He climbed into the driver's seat.

“Young and dumb.” LeFou joined him. “The mighty hunter survives yet another conquest!”

Gaston snapped the reins and looked to LeFou as the horses started for home. “But not without his faithful companion.”

LeFou tilted his hat and smiled at the handsome man next to him. “Always and forever, Gaston.”

The End

Chapter Text

A Family Like Us

Gaston’s cottage was clean and tidy enough for royalty, LeFou told himself. He was pleased with the amount of progress he made that morning. When the sand in the hourglass reached the bottom of the glass, he took the meat out of the oven and placed it on the counter, with a white cloth draped over the top to keep it fresh. Once the sugar bread cooled down, he removed the cloth and sprinkled it with a layer of sugar.

Gaston returned home to the smell of fresh bread. He took extra caution to not mess up the floors as he did so very often and removed his boots before entering the house.

“The cottage smells delightful, LeFou.” Gaston entered the kitchen, savouring the delightful aroma.

“How did it go?” LeFou asked him sweetly.

Gaston took a grape from a bowl on the counter and then handed LeFou a letter that he had tucked into his coat. “Muriel and his family will be here by evening. They left from Nantes, the day before yesterday.”

LeFou handed the letter back to Gaston. “Good thing we have the guest bedrooms ready, then.”

LeFou hummed happily as Gaston gave him a kiss on the cheek before walking away. “And how did everything go at the bank?” It felt funny saying that.

Gaston gave a contemplative look. “Better than I expected. I know my father never believed in banks. He always said they were full of thieves.”

“He wasn’t wrong.” LeFou gave a sad chuckle.

“He rarely ever was.” Gaston added. “But the world is changing, LeFou.”

LeFou considered the new change to the village. “A bank in Villeneuve. It’s hard to believe. Before we know it they’ll be adding a university.”

Gaston laughed like it was the most absurd thought. “I don’t know about that. It’s hard to imagine much change at all here. The villagers aren’t fond of the idea, and to be truthful neither am I. It surprised me the council voted to allow the lads to start a bank at all.”

LeFou tilted his head. “Are Oscar and Daniel still joining their families to run it and everything?”

“It seems so.” Gaston told him. “They’re even letting their wives help manage the affair.”

LeFou smiled happily. “Oh, goodness. Times are changing, Gaston. If only a little.”

“I still think you should have been at the meeting today, you would have learned all of this there.” Gaston subtly scolded him for not joining this morning.”

“We have company coming. And I had work to do.” LeFou insisted. And he did so rarely ever insist on anything that Gaston could never refuse him.

“Well, I still missed you.” Gaston gave him a pouty, playful look. LeFou had no choice but to kiss him for it.

“Ah, honey, I missed you more.” He booped the Captain’s nose.

“Oh, I almost forgot, I have something to show you.” Gaston took another note from his coat and dropped it on the counter. “This is the title for our bank funds.” He said proudly.

“Our funds?” LeFou asked, taking the paper in his hand. “That sounds so… official.”  

Gaston took LeFou’s arm and nearly made him drop the title as he placed both arms on his. “I put your name in as a beneficiary.”

“That sounds even more official.” LeFou looked confused.

“It means, if anything happens to me, everything in the bank will go to you. Also, you can manage my affairs when I’m away. The lads explained it all to me this morning.”

LeFou gazed at him adoringly and pulled him closer, face pressed against his chest. “You are too good to be true, my love.”

“I know LeFou.” Gaston ran his hands up LeFou’s back and enveloped him in the embrace. “I want us to be a proper family now.”

“A proper family?” Pulled back only enough to look into his eyes. “Gaston, where is this coming from?”

Gaston contemplated the question. “We're in our thirties now, LeFou. And… I know we can never properly marry but… can’t we at least pretend that we are?” His voice rose higher.

A breath escaped LeFou’s lips as he stared at the man in front of him. He wondered if he could ever be more in love with him than this. “Until the day I die.” LeFou said sweetly, feeling emotion bubbling up inside him at the thought of being the Captain’s husband.

Gaston touched the shorter man’s face, admiring how cute he was when he was flustered. The sun’s rays were beginning to seep in through the windows and shine against him. “We’ll talk more about this later, my love.” Gaston said, becoming suddenly aware of the time. “I’m going to bring in some extra firewood for tonight. I’m sure we’ll be up talking until late.”

“Oh, they may need some in the guest chambers too.” LeFou added, getting back into the swing of chores.

Gaston nodded in response. “What what I do without you, LeFou?” Gaston winked before heading out.

LeFou nearly swooned as Gaston left the cottage, but he still couldn’t help but wonder what Gaston was getting at. Then he realized, it was the guests. Muriel, and his family. Gaston was getting the urge to start one. LeFou wondered if adopting would be a good idea, but then he wasn’t sure how that would look to people looking on. If only they lived in a simpler world.

Gaston and LeFou walked outside when the family arrived. The villagers watched curiously as the two dark haired men stepped from the carriage. A blond woman, who sat between them, held a young girl in her arms. She turned to say something to her two boys in the back of their carriage.

“Douglas, Muriel! Welcome to the village!” Gaston greeted his friends.

“Greetings, Captain!” Murial exclaimed and embraced Gaston in a manly fashion. “And LeFou, it seems like just yesterday I last saw you.”

Douglas held out his hand to the woman in the carriage as she stood, holding the baby. “This is Aurelie. My wife, and little Reinette.”

“It’s good to finally meet the lovely lady I’ve heard so much about.” Gaston said charmingly.

Aurelie smiled graciously. “I’ve heard plenty about you as well Captain.” She told him, just as the identical boys jumped from the carriage and ran around to their mother, who had previously just told them to behave themselves, They were now doing their best to stay calm as they looked up to the Captain in admiration.

“Is he Gaston, papa?” One of the twins asked, looking at Murial. “The man you tell stories about?”  

Murial laughed. “The one and only.”

“He’s so big.” The other twin piped.

LeFou held back a laugh. “And what might your names be?” He asked the boys.

“There two are Aramis and Armand.” Douglas introduced them when the boys seemed to forget how to speak.  

“Such a lovely family.” LeFou said happily and gave Gaston a sweet smile. “It won’t be long now and the Captain will be having children of his own.”

“Still haven’t settled down yet, have you, scoundrel?” Muriel teased, nudging Gaston.  

Gaston laughed, raising a playful eyebrow. “Not yet, but one of these days soon.”

“Have you a suitor in mind?” Douglas asked, putting his arm around Aurelie as they walked inside, following Gaston.

“I’m waiting for the right one.” Gaston told them. “You know how it is.”

Aurelie guided her boys alongside her, the baby still in her arms. “This is such a lovely home you have here.” She told LeFou.

LeFou was about to say that it was Gaston’s cottage and not his, but the huntsman cut him off by swinging his arm around his shoulders.

“Thank you, it’s been in the family for ages.” Gaston said proudly.

LeFou couldn’t help but blush at the comment. Sometimes he still couldn’t believe Gaston wanted him. He felt happier than ever as they entered the cottage. Their home.

Gaston was his family. As LeFou watched the way the men and wife interacted, it dawned upon him. Here was another family, that just might not be too different from them.

The End

Chapter Text

Velvet Beauty

It was the end of another evening at Gaston’s cottage. Will, Jaques, and Stanley sat at the fireplace, having one of their private conversations. Tom and Dick sat across from LeFou and Gaston on the couches, winding down from the evening of cards. The game had gone as it usually did, with Gaston and Tom about neck and neck. LeFou and Dick had been the first to drop out and discussed different pieces of literature from the couch.

The later evening hours had come, and LeFou began to yawn. When Tom and Gaston joined them, LeFou snuggled up to Gaston, resting his head in his lap. He listened quietly to the conversation Tom and Gaston were having about military arms and the weapons their fathers had left them.

Gaston gently ran his hand over LeFou’s back and shoulders as he listened to Dick make a comment about hunting.

“Speaking of hunting.” Gaston started. “Our trip should prove very prosperous this year. We had a good spring, so you know what that means.”

“Lots of game.” Tom answered.

Gaston subconsciously played at the base of LeFou’s neck, running his fingers up into his soft velvet hair.

“I look forward to it, Captain.” Tom said. “The beginning of winter will be here before we know it. We should plan an autumn hunt this year, Richard. Might be good for us to get out into the forest again for a few days.”

“It couldn’t be during their trip, someone had to stay back with the village.” Dick reminded him.

“Maybe a spring trip then, just the two of us.” Tom replied.

“What, you're not going to take us?” Jaques said playfully as he came to join them on the couches.

Dick scoffed. “We need some time away from you boys.”

Gaston listened to the quiet conversation as played in LeFou’s hair. He watched him as he faded deeper into sleep. He observed how perfect and beautiful LeFou was. He stroked the back of his neck underneath his dark locks. It started to rain lightly outside, likely adding to LeFou’s deeper state of sleep.

Tom reached across to place a hand on Dick’s leg. “Should we get going? If you want to get home before the storm.” As if on cue, it started to rain harder.

“It may be too late for that.” Dick told him with a laugh.

The distant roll of thunder echoed in the distance, bringing Stanley and Will’s attention towards the window. They were unaware until now that the weather was going to get bad tonight.

The lads decided it was time to go, and gathered at the door. LeFou woke just enough to hear the sound of them walking around on the wood floors, reaching for their hats and coats. Gaston got up, leaving LeFou to rest on the couch while he said goodbye to the boys.

“Tell LeFou thankyou for dinner.” Will said with a friendly smile. “We had a good time tonight.”

“I will.” Gaston promised. “Don’t get sick in the rain.”

“We’re going to the tavern for breakfast in the morning if you’d like to join us.” Tom told the huntsman.

“Then we’ll likely see you there.” Gaston promised.

“Goodnight Captain.” Stanley shook Gaston’s hand in a manly fashion.

 “Good night, Stanley.” Gaston clasped his arm. He watched as five of his best men walked away from the cottage, hurrying to get through the storm.

Gaston blew out the candles and scooped LeFou up into his arms, carrying him upstairs.

“Gaston?” LeFou peeped as the huntsman laid him into their bed. “Did the boys go home?”

“They did.” Gaston lifted LeFou’s leg, pulling off his boot, before repeating the same process with the other.

LeFou rolled over onto his side with a yawn.

“We’re going to breakfast with them in the morning, does that sound good?” Gaston asked as he helped LeFou out of his outer garments.

“Sounds delightful.” LeFou pulled out of his trousers.

Gaston stripped off his shirt and trousers, doused the lights and slipped into bed with LeFou. He pulled the blankets over both of them and relaxed against the warmth of their bed.

“I love you, LeFou.” Gaston whispered as LeFou breathed heavily in and out.

“I love you, Gaston.” LeFou said as he drifted into sleep.

Gaston kissed him on the head, again playing with his hair. “I love absolutely everything about you.”

LeFou’s breathing deepened until the lightest of sounds came from his mouth, turning into a light snore. Gaston chuckled and kissed him on the head. “You are perfectly adorable.” He rubbed the smooth lock of hair between his finger and thumb. “No one could ever love and adore you more than I do. My velvet beauty.”   

The End

Chapter Text

Love Under The Stars

The night was dark as they walked through the village in the late night hours. The moon and stars acted as their only guide. No one was out, so Gaston didn’t hesitate to take LeFou’s hand as they passed by the houses, on their way to the bridge and then to the meadow. The hills were decorated in summer flowers, most closed in sleeping beneath the glowing light. There was a feeling. Something special, if only to them on this night.

Twelve years ago, LeFou and Gaston left Villeneuve on this evening to join the war for France. To celebrate this occasion, they decided to spend it by their favourite tree. In the fields outside the village. It wasn’t an altogether big or spectacular tree, but it held a lot of good memories the two shared in youth. It had been the place of their first kiss. And a place they often agreed to meet.

“It is so beautiful out tonight.” LeFou looked up at the bright stars. “It’s as though the stars know our story. And every story of all the true lovers throughout the ages.”

“Perhaps they do, LeFou.” Gaston laid down the blanket beneath the tree. “It is a perfect night for this.”  

LeFou laid the basket down and removed the bottle of wine and two candlesticks. Gaston made small holes in the ground for the candles and started to light them. LeFou watched with a very dreamy expression on his face.

The soft glow of candlelight flickered against their skin, as flame touched the wick. It blew about by free air, but not so hard that it was doused. Gaston sat down next to LeFou and took the wine bottle, popping it open. He poured the drink into the copper cups, held steadily by LeFou.

Here is to us, and all of France.” Gaston popped the cork back onto the bottle.

“And to the boys that never came home.” LeFou added. Together they drank.

LeFou finished his wine and laid down upon the blanket. He looked up into the tall branches of the tree. Its green leaves spread out beneath the blanket of sparkling stars. “This tree is my favourite tree in all the world, Gaston.”

“It should be.” Gaston replied. “Many beautiful memories.”

“Our first kiss was right here.” LeFou patted the spot on the ground, though he knew Gaston would not have forgotten.

Gaston took a last sip of his wine and laid down beside LeFou on the blanket. “And I taught you to fight here.” Gaston ran his hand over LeFou’s body comfortingly. “You looked so adorable that day.”

LeFou pulled the ribbons from his hair and then from Gaston’s. He loosened his shirt and wrapped his arms around his neck.

Gaston placed a gentle kiss on his lips, enveloping him, before getting up into a sitting position.

LeFou watched curiously, and with much admiration as Gaston lifted one of his legs so gracefully and pulled off his boot, and then he did the same with the other. When he was finished, he parted LeFou’s legs and leaned in over him, kissing his mouth once more.

LeFou allowed his head to fall against the blanket as he pulled Gaston in closer.

“I still love you just as much as the first day I tasted you.” Gaston kissed his neck, pulling a soft moan from LeFou.

“And I’m still just as madly in love with you, Gaston. I always will be. Always.” LeFou ran his hands up underneath Gaston’s loose white shirt, feeling his firm body.

LeFou lost himself in the warmth and love of Gaston, breathing in his wonderful essence as the beautiful man surrounded him. He pulled off the captain’s shirt and allowed Gaston to return the action.

Gaston kissed him all the way down to his torso, using his tongue teasingly against his ivory skin.

LeFou was grateful for the warmth on that spring night as Gaston removed the rest of their clothing. Gaston’s hands entangled in his hair as he kissed him passionately.

Entangled they were, in the magic of their love, as they had been so many times before. The friction and closeness between them captivated their deepest and most intimate parts of being. The wildness of making love outside was as ever exhilarating.

They could have done this all night long…

Gaston lay with LeFou in his arms. He pulled a wool blanket over them, as the heat of their passion wore off and the night grew cooler.

“Every time it’s like the first time all over again, and just as incredible.”

Gaston said, smiling at the memory. He gently moved his hand over LeFou’s back. “You were so beautiful and so delicate. I’ll never forget how perfect that night was.”

LeFou rested his hand over Gaston’s hairy chest. “One of the best nights of my life.” He said with a giggle. He felt Gaston’s heart slow to the rhythm of his own as they relaxed, sleepiness settling in. “Everything was so new and so exciting.” LeFou added.  

Gaston touched his face, kissing him delicately, as he played in his messy hair. “Yes, it was.” He said almost dreamily.

LeFou closed his eyes, the warmth of Gaston’s love filling him. “Gaston, will you sing to me?” LeFou asked, thinking of how beautiful his voice sounded against the open air. Gaston’s singing voice was one of the things that captivated his soul.

Gaston thought of a song, and took a breath, clearing his lungs so that he may sing beautifully for LeFou. It was a perfect song for tonight. One he had written not so long ago, on a night like this.

“The first time, ever I saw your face, I thought the sun rose in your eyes. And the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave, to the dark and the empty skies. And the first time, ever I kissed your mouth, I felt the earth move in my hands, like the trembling heart of a captive bird, that was there at my command, my love. And the first time, ever I lay with you, I felt your heart, oh so close to mine. And I knew our joy would fill the earth, and last 'til the end of time, my love. The first time ever I saw your face.”

There was nothing in this world that could meet the magic of this. Gaston’s beating heart, the warmth of his arms and the majesty of his voice. LeFou fell to sleep that night, feeling happier, and more in love with Gaston with each passing second. Surely nothing could compare to this.

Gaston woke to the gentle breeze caressing his hair, and the closeness of LeFou, right up against him. It was morning, the sky was just turning a dusky blue, the sun peeping up on the horizon. LeFou hummed in his sleep, waking to Gaston’s fingers grazing upon his bare arm.

“Good morning, my love.” Gaston kissed the crevasse of his neck.

“Good morning, my darling.” LeFou said with a long yawn that he covered with his hand.

The sound of the clock tower chimed in the distance. The six o'clock bell, and the first reminder of each new day.

Gaston sat up, allowing the blanket to fall down his chest, exposing his toned upper half. “We should be heading back. Someone may see us.”

LeFou blushed. “Let them.” He teased. “I don’t want our time to end.” He pulled back into Gaston’s lap.

Gaston planted a kiss on LeFou’s head before taking his shirt and slipping it over his shoulders. “Come on, let’s go, LeFou.” He got up and pulled on his trousers.

LeFou frowned but did as he was told and sat up regretfully. Gaston threw him his shirt. LeFou dressed, and got up onto his feet, rolling up the blanket and putting the things away in the basket, including their ribbons and copper goblets.

“I wish we could make the time never end.” LeFou hummed whimsically.

Gaston took LeFou by the hand. “Our time together will never end, my love. You will always have me.” He pressed a kiss to his lips before taking the basket from the ground and leading LeFou away from the tree.

LeFou hummed with deep contentment at the thought. “You are so handsome, Gaston.” He took note of how dashing he looked even after a night’s sleep on the ground.

Gaston put his arm around the other man’s shoulders as they walked down the hill. “So are you, LeFou. We must be made for each other.”

LeFou giggled happily, and together they walked back to the village, back to their safe and comfortable home.

The End   

Chapter Text

Kiss Me Deeply

This was his date with Gaston. His half finished dinner on the table next to the Captain’s, and the empty bottle of wine. Gaston had spent money at this lavish and expensive restaurant in Paris, to take him out this evening for a romantic dinner. They even made a reservation.

Now, as LeFou sat with his arms crossed and his upper lip pursed just slightly in a scowl, he glared at the woman that Gaston wouldn’t stop flirting with. She had seen him staring at her when they started dinner and had come over to flirt back. The nerve of that woman.

LeFou watched and waited in frustration while Gaston shared one of his heroic war stories. He got a kick out of women swooning over him, even if they both knew it wouldn’t last. But that wasn’t the point.

It was when she suggested coming by their room later that LeFou shot up from the table, getting their attention now, whereas before he felt invisible. The jealousy boiled up inside him as he looked to Gaston, who seemed rather surprised by his silent outburst.

“You’ll have to find your own room to do…” He gestured with his hand. “Whatever you do, because I’m not giving up our room, Gaston. Now, if you’ll both excuse me.” LeFou grabbed his hat to leave.

The shock and embarrassment Gaston felt made him angry, and he decided to ignore the twinge of guilt. “LeFou!” He called out after him. “Wait.” It sounded more like an order than a request.

LeFou stopped and turned back to the Captain, arms crossed, mouth closed tight.

The woman looked surprised too. Her mouth dropped open, her eyebrows raised. “Did we say something to offend you?” She asked, possibly catching onto the fact that he was jealous.

The scowl on LeFou’s face deepened and he walked over to her. He spoke so no one but the three of them could hear. “Don’t you think for one second that you and Gaston are united in this. There is no ‘we’ about the situation.” He snapped. “You may get his attention for an hour but that is nothing compared to what I have on him, honey.”  

“LeFou!” Gaston exclaimed, completely surprised at his behaviour. Where this was coming from?

LeFou turned to Gaston. “I’m leaving.”

“You don’t need to leave.” Gaston informed him innocently.

LeFou scowled at Gaston but the woman went to speak instead. “Oh, let him leave, we’ll…”

Gaston cut her off mid sentence, his eyes didn’t leave LeFou. “No, you leave. My old friend and I clearly have some unfinished business to discuss.”

The girl gasped, offended. “Excuse me, Captain? Do you really…”

“I said!” Gaston yelled and then lowered his voice when people began to look. “Leave.”

With a glare, the woman got up and left the table, storming out of the restaurant as she cursed rapidly in French.

LeFou looked hurt and angry, still standing with his hat on his arm. “LeFou, would you please sit down with me, and stop causing a scene?” Gaston asked quietly.  

“Why wouldn’t you stop flirting with her?” LeFou asked, ignoring Gaston’s request. “Especially here, tonight, and like this, at our table.”

Gaston looked around the room, his temper rising, people were starting to stare more the longer they stood. “Does it matter? She was a beautiful woman, and you scared her away.”

“Good.” LeFou snapped and looked away from Gaston.

Gaston shook his head and stood up from the table. “Alright. If you are done, let’s go back to the Inn then, shall we?”

“Why don’t I go back alone, and you can go…find little miss harlot, then you two can be happy together!”

Gaston grabbed his arm but LeFou didn’t pull away. “You are causing a scene, old friend. You must stop, now. And she was not a harlot. That’s beneath my dignity and you know it.”

Now LeFou pulled away. “So now you’re defending her.” He said, feeling a pain in his heart.

Gaston growled, his anger rising. “No, LeFou I’m not… I wasn’t defending her!” He exclaimed. “What is wrong with you?” He yelled. “Why are you behaving like this?”

LeFou’s expression twisted in hurt and anger.

“People are staring.” Gaston said for only LeFou to hear.

LeFou shook his head. “Fine, I’ll leave, then. So they will stop staring.” At the moment he didn’t care who saw or heard what. He pulled away from Gaston, leaving the restaurant.

Gaston looked around at the few people watching. “Everything is fine. Just a heated debate between old friends.” He said with a forced laugh.

The people seemed to buy it and a waiter spoke up to Gaston.

“Would you like to pay now, sir?” He asked him, seeing that Gaston was taking his hat to leave. Gaston nodded and went to take some gold from his satchel.

LeFou stormed out of the restaurant to find the weather was just as dark and miserable as his mood. The sky above Paris was cloudy and dark as rain poured down into the streets, splashing everything in its path. LeFou put on his hat and waited for a carriage to pass by before leaving the shelter of the building and running out into the rain, making his way to the Inn where they were staying. The anger building inside LeFou started turning to sadness as the raindrops splashed against his skin, seemingly portraying his emotions.

“LeFou!” He heard Gaston call out to him but kept going. Gaston caught up to him quickly as he turned the corner into the alleyway.

“LeFou, wait, please.” Gaston called, and LeFou stopped, turning to the huntsman. Rain poured onto both of them, but neither of them cared.

“Do as you please, Gaston. Don’t let me stop you.” LeFou said sharply.

Gaston approached him, rain shimmering against his face. The sky was white behind him. “I’m sorry, alright? I got carried away, that’s all.”

LeFou pursed his lips, his tears mixing invisibly with the rain. But Gaston could tell he was crying.

“If I would have noticed your pain I would have sent her away sooner.” Gaston promised. “That is all on me. I’m sorry, LeFou. Please don’t be angry.”

LeFou looked down as Gaston spoke, unable to meet his eyes. His tears turned into a silent sob. “I didn’t mean to cause a scene, Gaston. I just…seeing her there, flirting with you, and gawking over you.” LeFou looked up to Gaston again. “I just…felt alone. Like you were not mine at all. And maybe you shouldn’t be. Maybe I’m not good enough.”

A trace of pain and guilt formed in Gaston’s eyes. He broke the space between them by placing his hands against LeFou’s arms. “Never, LeFou. You are never alone. And you are more than I deserve.”

“It didn’t feel like it tonight, on our date.” LeFou said, bitterness coming back for only a second before it returned to sadness. He was glad for the rain to hide his tears as he looked at the ground.

“No matter what, you will always be my first and foremost love. No one matters more than you. I am sorry I hurt you tonight, LeFou. I will always truly belong to you. You have my word.”

LeFou looked up to meet Gaston’s earnest eyes.

“You’re all I see. You’re all I truly want.” Gaston promised.

“You’re all I want too, Gaston.” LeFou replied.

Despite the risk, Gaston lunged forward. He pulled his body to his, entangling LeFou in his embrace as he pressed his lips against his.

LeFou held tight around Gaston’s back as the rain enveloped them, the water dripping over their faces as Gaston kissed him deeper, filled with all the passion he could give. He was like a mighty lion, powerful and majestic and passionate.  

When they parted, Gaston placed a hand to LeFou’s face, kissing his forehead. “I love you.” He said sincerely.

LeFou placed his hand inside Gaston’s. “I love you too Gaston.” He shivered. That was possibly the most romantic thing Gaston had ever done. “That was risky.” LeFou added with a smile.

Gaston moved a strand of wet hair out of his face. “You are worth the risk.” He kissed his lips once more, enjoying the freedom of it. “Let’s go back to our room and dry off.” Gaston took his hand.

LeFou nodded, following along, still entranced by the kiss.

The End

Chapter Text

Gaston’s Favourite Guy

LeFou was inside his bedroom when his papa burst in. He carried a belt in his hand. Fear overwhelmed him as he was filled with the urge to run. His Papa came forward and knocked him to the ground. The pain from the hard floor beneath him knocked the wind out of him as he braced himself for more. A dark, sickening red was everywhere. On his hands, on the floor. LeFou tried to get up but it was too difficult. The sticky blood beneath him made him want to vomit.

He looked up in fear, his father’s lips were moving, his face twisted, he was screaming but no words were coming out. Again his father hit him. The belt snapped with a crack, almost like a cannon before it connected with his skin. He was surprised when he felt no pain from the blow. The surprise itself seemed to cause his father's face to fade, replacing him with a man in a blue uniform.

Suddenly he was in the middle of a green field. The man in front of him raised his sword, aiming to kill him. LeFou rolled out of the way just before the blade could slice him in two. LeFou cried for Gaston, but his voice was quickly cut off by another cannon sound. He looked up, only to see another man in blue. This one was bleeding from his empty, dark eye sockets. LeFou let out a scream as the man raised his sword, it was over, he was dead.

Just as LeFou accepted defeat, a blade shot through the man’s middle from the other side. When he fell, a brilliant ray of sunlight shone from above, against a tall man with ebony hair, his hero, his friend. LeFou trembled as a sob escaped his lips. “Gaston...” Was all he could muster to say. The world dragged in front of him like honey dripping down a honeycomb.

“There, I saved you LeFou.” Gaston said with that handsome smoulder he adored. “Go, live in peace, away from here.”

To LeFou’s horror, Gaston’s face began to turn a sick sort of grey, and his eyes took on a blank stare. LeFou knew that look.

“Don't let them forget my name, old friend.” Gaston’s final words echoed in his head as blood formed on the Captain’s chest, through his uniform. A cannon exploded behind him, knocking Gaston forward.

LeFou screamed as Gaston fell to the ground. He pushed him over, feeling the weight of him. LeFou had to save him, he couldn’t let him die here.

Gaston’s eyes were blank. Those beautiful grey eyes glazed over in the cruel embrace of death, forever. “No, Gaston, no!” LeFou cried, followed by the agonizing screams of men around him. “You are not supposed to die!” He screamed.

Horrified, he held Gaston in his arms, rocking him in despair. His sobs shook his whole body as the shock and denial ripped through him. He was gone. He was…dead. Gaston was dead.

***

Gaston woke with a start, a thud bringing him from sleep. He reached forward, searching through the darkness for LeFou. Replacing where LeFou’s body had been was an empty space. A soft whimper from LeFou confirmed he had fallen out of bed in his sleep.

“LeFou?” Gaston called. He quickly got out of bed, careful not to hurt him as he stood up. Gaston crouched down to where LeFou lay. “I'm here, LeFou.” Gaston reached out to feel LeFou. Scooping his arms underneath him, he pulled the smaller man into his arms.

“Gaston!” LeFou cried, clinging to the huntsman. All those horrible things still played in his mind. “Don’t go, don’t leave me.”

Gaston held him close in his arms, completely surrounding him, his breath in his hair. “LeFou, you’re safe. I'm here, my love, I’m not going anywhere.” As LeFou continued to tremble he thought maybe a song would help. Though his voice was still recovering from sleep, he tried anyway. To bring cheer into the room he tried a revision of their tavern song, whenever Gaston was having a bad day.

“How it disturbs me to see you, LeFou, looking so sad and afraid. Everyone here'd like to be you LeFou, right in my arms safe to stay.” With that LeFou started to relax. Gaston planted a soft kiss to his head.

“There's no man in town half as gorgeous as you, you’re my very own favourite guy. I'm so in love, so in awe and inspired by you, and it’s not very hard to see why.” Gaston ended the song there and kissed him again.

LeFou giggled just slightly when he finished. “Oh, Gaston, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…”

“Don’t apologize my love. It’s all right. Do you need to talk about it?” Gaston lifted him as he came to standing.

“Maybe in the morning, when it’s light outside.” LeFou clung closer to Gaston until he laid him into bed.

“Alright. Did you hurt yourself?” Gaston asked as he joined him under the blankets.

“No, I don’t think so.” LeFou assessed how he was feeling. Aside from a little stiffness, nothing hurt. LeFou shivered at the thought of his dreams and cuddled close to Gaston.

Gaston wrapped his arms around his boy and gently kissed him until he got a deep, relaxed sigh from him. “I’ll always be here for you my love.” He promised.   

LeFou smiled in warm contentment. The terror of his dream seemed to leave as the love from Gaston enveloped him. “I loved your song.” LeFou closed his eyes.

Gaston rubbed his back gently. “Tomorrow we can work on a few of your songs. That always cheers you up, my love.”

LeFou hummed happily. “Yes, but I will be cheered up by morning, just from this.” He kissed Gaston’s strong chest. Nothing could make him more happy than to be in his Captain’s arms. “I am just so glad we both made it home.”

Gaston gathered from that comment that he had a dream about the war. “Yes, of course, we did LeFou. I would never let anything happen to either of us.”

“You’re Gaston, the best of the best, nothing could happen to you.” LeFou agreed. A yawn came to follow his statement. “Oh, Gaston, how I love you.”

Gaston nuzzled into him. “I love you too, my little bard.”

The End

Chapter Text

Our Hidden Love

When they returned from the war, Gaston and LeFou began cleaning the cottage, to make up for the five years of their absence. One of the things they set to do was replace the mattresses with new ones from Paris. Those would be arriving at the cottage today. LeFou had already finished with the bed in their bedroom and managed to push the mattress up against the wall for Gaston to carry out later. Now he worked on the smaller mattress in the guest bedroom. The one that used to belong to Gaston when his father was still living in the house.

He stripped off the sheets and threw them in a pile, along with the pillowcases. LeFou set the pillows on the cupboard. He could hear Gaston walking up the stairs moments before he turned the corner.

“The wagon is here, LeFou.” Gaston passed the room that used to be his old room and went to get the mattress in the master bedroom. It was still so strange that it was his now.

“Good, I’ll have this next one done in a second.” LeFou called after him.

Gaston lifted the mattress in their bedroom and carried it out into the hall and down the stairs. LeFou pulled the front of the mattress off the wood frame. As he did, his fingers glided over a rip in the seam at the bottom. He pushed the mattress off the bed on the other side, exposing the solid frame. With a shove he lifted the mattress against the wall, covering the window, leaving the light in the room only half as bright as it was before.

The slash in the bottom of the mattress caught LeFou’s eye. It looked like someone had run across it with a knife, exposing a few loose feathers. LeFou ran his finger across the seam, the mark was probably left there by Gaston, for what reason he didn’t know.

Gaston made him jump when he walked back into the room. He turned around quickly to see the huntsman, unsure of why the new presence startled him.

“The men will be up soon, to bring in the new ones.” Gaston told him.

LeFou watched as two men carried a huge mattress down the hall to Gaston’s bedroom. It was bigger than the one before.

“It will do nicely I think.” Gaston winked at his lieutenant. “It’s one of the most luxurious in France.”

“Well, you do spend at least seven hours in your bed every night, so it must be comfortable.” LeFou pretended not to notice Gaston’s wink, though it made him blush madly.

“And we got new pillows too.” Gaston grinned and slapped his hand on the pillows on top of the cupboard. “These will be going to the poor.”

LeFou giggled and watched quietly as Gaston took the smaller mattress. Once the men had passed by, he carried it on its side, through the room, and out the door. LeFou hummed happily, this was just the sort of life he dreamt of having for so long. First when he was a lad and then when they were at the war. It had been all they could do to hope and pray they might return home at all. Now that they had it was a dream come true. And then Gaston asked LeFou to move in with him.

When Gaston left the room, LeFou noticed a small, rolled up piece of parchment on the floor. Tilting his head in surprise, he bent to pick it up. A silver ring encircled it that he didn’t recognize. LeFou wondered why they didn’t hear it fall, and thought maybe Gaston had been making too much noise with the mattress that neither of them noticed.

He studied the object that had not been there before and wondered if he should run immediately to show Gaston or look at it first. He thought of the rip in the mattress and realised it must have fallen from that.

LeFou heard someone else coming down the hall and quickly slipped the note into his pocket just as the two men from before carried the next mattress into the guest bedroom.

One of the men looked at him. “This is the right room I presume?” He asked LeFou.

LeFou nodded. “Yes, it is.” He waited as they laid out the new mattress. The secret parchment burning in his pocket as he wondered what it had inside it.

“Good day, monsieur.” The man nodded respectfully before leaving the room.

LeFou took a breath as they left, and sat down on the edge of the bare mattress, his back facing the door. He pulled out the rolled parchment from his pocket and felt the cool material of the ring before sliding it off. Now that his memory came back to him, he thought he remembered Gaston having a ring like this when they were lads. It was just a simple silver ring, nothing special about it. Probably why it was used to hold and hide a piece of parchment, to then be completely forgotten about.  

LeFou unrolled the old parchment slowly, the page crackling as it hadn’t been opened in years. In black ink was the small and slightly sloppy handwriting of Gaston. LeFou smiled, recognizing every slash and dot of his writing hand. There was no date on the page, and he was surprised to see it was addressing him.

“LeFou. My very best friend. He makes me feel things in ways I didn’t know I could. In ways people might find odd…or peculiar. I know he has felt the same way about me. I am not sure for how long. But the way he looks at me! Is not that how most lads look at at girls? Enveloped wholly in the way they walk and talk and flip their soft hair.

Instead, LeFou looks at me with those big, dark brown, wondrous eyes. So full of innocence and….something else. He is so small and delightful. He makes me feel things. The way he looks at me when when I undress in front of him makes me wonder how far we could do with this. Oh but he is so joyous to my heart. They way he speaks and sings and how he makes me feel like the greatest and strongest lad in all of France.

This is terrifying. Mad. Unheard of. These feelings. What would father think? What could this do to my family’s reputation? However… I am not sure I can resist the urge to touch his soft skin. To pull him close and make him giggle. His high noises, they delight me. His touch on my skin, it thrills me. I love our wrestling matches, it’s the only time I get to put my hands all over him without a reason.

I’m not afraid of much… but I am afraid of what will happen to us if people knew. He’s so gorgeous though. LeFou is so beautiful. Like a woman almost. His ivory skin so soft, his lips so pure. He is undeniably attractive. Dare I say it, dare I think it. I want to kiss his lips, dare I write it. But then I am the most daring lad in the village. I want him. I want him so much. I want him more than I have ever wanted anyone. And he wants me... but who doesn’t?

LeFou. LeFou. LeFou. LeFou. My friend. My love? My heart. My deepest secret. Kiss me... Kiss me and never, ever stop, LeFou. No. But somehow, I must find the courage, to kiss him.”

LeFou took a deep breath, awestruck by this letter written by a younger and more conflicted Gaston. He smiled warmly, knowing just now how much Gaston had wanted him before they did. This note must have been written a few months or so before they kissed for the first time. They would have been fifteen.

LeFou didn’t hide the note when Gaston came back up the stairs. Instead, he placed the ring in its centre and held it out for Gaston to take. He was silent, too afraid he might cry or burst out in laughter or song if he opened his mouth.

“What do you have, there?” Gaston furrowed his brow.

LeFou didn’t have to answer as the memory came back to Gaston. “It fell out of the mattress.” LeFou informed him.

Gaston took the letter and began to read it, the words coming back to him that he had long forgotten. “I remember this.” He said in amazement. “I hid it so no one could find it.” He shook his head with a laugh. “I guess it was a good hiding place. I forgot about it.”  

LeFou sighed happily and got up to join Gaston’s side as he read the letter. When Gaston finished he placed it on the cupboard along with the ring. “Oh, how I wanted you.” He chuckled and pulled LeFou into his arms. “We were so full of questions at that age.”

“I remember.” LeFou sighed, enveloped in Gaston’s arms. “I remember being so shocked when you kissed me. I wondered about your feelings but I never knew for sure. The way you looked at me sometimes made me hope that...” LeFou stopped and looked up at Gaston. “That you did feel the same.”

“And I still do, to this day, LeFou.” Gaston leaned closer in to kiss him. “I love you more than anything.”

“Oh, Gaston, I love you. Since… before I can remember, really.” LeFou tried to pinpoint an exact age. But he couldn’t. He had always loved Gaston.

Gaston pulled LeFou in for another kiss, passion washing over them. When they broke the kiss, Gaston studied him with loving eyes. “What do you say we try out the new mattress?” He didn’t give him time to answer before he swooped him up into his arms.

LeFou squeaked and wrapped his arms around Gaston’s neck tightly. “Take me away, Captain.” He said and began to kiss him feverishly.

The End   

Chapter Text

Feel A Little Better

Gaston gathered an arm full of firewood and made his way through the breaking dawn, to the cottage's back door. The crisp air twirled against his exhaling breath. A sign that autumn was on its way. Hunting season would be upon them in a couple of weeks. With a shove, he pushed open the door and walked through to the fireplace in the living quarters. He was just about to head upstairs when he heard LeFou clanking around in the kitchen, getting breakfast ready.

“Good morning, my love!” Gaston placed the wood by the fireplace and walked into where LeFou was bending over to remove a pan from the cupboard.

LeFou furrowed his brow as he stood up, wincing at the noise. “Good morning.” He said halfheartedly.

Gaston noticed the lack of energy coming from LeFou. He was suddenly aware of how tired he looked. Coming to him, he took one arm and placed the back of his other hand against LeFou’s forehead. “Are you feeling ill?”

LeFou shrugged. “I don’t know, I think I’m alright.”

“You’re not too warm.” Gaston removed his hand and observed LeFou in the early sunlight. “But you do look a little pale.”

LeFou leaned into Gaston, so unmotivated to make breakfast that it hurt. “I do feel a bit dizzy.”

Gaston held him there for a moment and placed a kiss to his head. “You go back to bed. I’ll bring you something for breakfast, alright? And I’ll be up in a moment to rekindle the fireplace.”

“But…you’re not going to cook are you?” LeFou looked up to him.

“Heavens, no.” Gaston laughed. “I’ll go by the tavern. Now go upstairs, leave everything to me.”

LeFou gave in, and went to go upstairs, grateful to have Gaston with him when he wasn’t feeling well. He shut the drapes in the bedroom and crawled back into the welcoming bed. Closing his eyes, he rested until Gaston returned to rekindle the fire in the bedroom.

When Gaston finished, he placed a few handkerchiefs on the nightstand next to LeFou. He placed a kiss to his head and spoke softly. “I’ll be back in a bit my love.”

LeFou sneezed and hid his face in annoyance at his sudden attack on the senses.

“I thought you might need those.” Gaston placed one of the handkerchiefs onto the bed. “Rest well, my love. I will return with breakfast.”

LeFou peeked out from under the blankets. He sneezed again and wiped his face. “Why are you smiling at me, Gaston?” LeFou whined, noticing the look on the Captain’s face. “My sneezes aren’t funny.”

“You sound like a baby rabbit.” Gaston smirked. “It’s enduring.” He rubbed LeFou’s arm gently.

“I don’t want to be sick, Gaston.” LeFou told him with a pout.

Gaston walked towards the door. “I’ll make you better, I promise.”

LeFou sighed. “Just…don’t get too close, you’ll catch what I have.”

Gaston shrugged it off. “I won’t get sick, LeFou.”

LeFou blew Gaston a kiss, to which Gaston returned the gesture and then went to fetch breakfast.

In less than half an hour, Gaston returned with eggs and sausage for himself, farina for LeFou, and tea for the both of them. The farina would be easy on LeFou’s throat while he was sick. LeFou was asleep when Gaston got back and woke quickly when he heard the huntsman come into the room.

“How do you feel?” Gaston asked as he put the tray down.

LeFou sat up drowsily against the pillows. Another sneeze escaped his mouth, his moan answering the question. Gaston touched LeFou’s face fondly and placed the tea on his nightstand. “You are adorable.”

“I don’t feel adorable.” LeFou took the tea carefully.

Gaston sat a tray in LeFou’s lap and sat on the opposite side of LeFou. He started his breakfast with him, glad to finally be getting nourishment.

“Is it cold outside?” LeFou asked.

“It’s certainly getting there.” Gaston informed him. “We’ll be leaving by the end of the month for our autumn hunting trip. Can you believe it? It feels like the last one was just a few months ago.”

LeFou took a small bite of his farina from the wooden bowl. “This year has gone by exceptionally fast. Will we be gone for the whole seven weeks this time?”  

Gaston finished the last of his eggs and leaned back against the headboard, thinking. “It depends on how much game we catch in the first five weeks or so. The villagers count on us to bring in plenty of meat for the winter. We must hold to that expectation.”

“That won’t be hard for you.” LeFou set his bowl aside and laid back down, his head next to Gaston’s lap. “Maybe we can make this one a shorter trip.”

“I thought you liked our hunting trips?” Gaston questioned, furrowing his brow as he looked down at him. He placed a hand in his hair.

“I do.” LeFou’s voice rose higher. “I just don’t like the cold.”

Gaston pulled the blanket up to LeFou’s shoulder. “I’ll keep you warm.” He promised and put his empty plate aside.  

LeFou closed his eyes, the warmth and comfort of Gaston making him sleepy. “At least, if you get sick, it will be far enough before the hunting trip, that we may both be better before our leave.”

“And we don’t have any plans this weekend, so all you have to do is get feeling better.” Gaston rubbed his back gently.

LeFou hummed, feeling somewhat content aside from the itchiness in his throat. “Thank you, my gorgeous hero.” He said with a yawn escaping his lips.

“Your welcome my love... I’ll make you feel better in no time.” Gaston promised. He took his hand and watched as his beautiful LeFou fell into a peaceful sleep.

The End

Chapter Text

Always There

The coolness of the air against his arm was the first sense he came to when he woke from his deep sleep. Darkness still filled the room. LeFou’s side of the bed was empty, he realised as he rolled over. He sat up drowsily, the chilly air biting his exposed skin. He looked towards the open door for a sign of candlelight, wondering if LeFou had just gotten up to use the privy, but he didn’t see anything but the shadows of moonlight against the walls and the faint flicker of coals from the fireplace. “LeFou?” Gaston called out. When there was no reply, he started to worry.

If it had been just an ordinary night, Gaston may have thought LeFou simply went downstairs to get some water or perhaps couldn’t sleep and was reading on the couch, but tonight wasn’t ordinary. Not only was it the yearly anniversary of his mother’s death, which seemed like a whole lifetime ago, but LeFou’s mind was still in a very fragile state. Just three months ago, he had been arrested, and captive to the unfortunate circumstances involving a madhouse. He had also lost his father, sentenced to life in prison, who also happened to be the one that caused the unjust arrest in the first place.

With a groan, Gaston brought his feet onto the cold floor and stood up, reaching for his shirt which was thrown carelessly into a heap on the floor. Gaston took the fire stoker and stirred the coals a little before adding another log, providing more light in the room. He walked into the hall first, poking his head into LeFou’s room to see if he was in there, but the bed was still made and there was no LeFou to be found.

Gaston quickly dressed into a thick pair of trousers and pulled a wool nightshirt over his head, along with his boots.

He walked down the stairs and saw that the fireplace was still going. The living quarters and the kitchen were empty. Gaston was grateful for the warm clothes when he left the cottage, half expecting to see LeFou on the porch, but he wasn’t there either. Now Gaston really started to worry. If he wasn’t inside, and he wasn’t on the porch, where was he? Gaston knew of only two places LeFou would be on a night like tonight, and he decided to go with the most probable first.

It was cold out, though not an ounce of wind played in the air tonight, making the winter night deadly quiet, save for the occasional barking dog or cooing owl. Gaston walked quietly down the road until he reached the cathedral. He turned the corner, making his way to the graveyard, where Villeneuve’s loved ones had been laid to rest for centuries. He went down the grassy path, past the old and newer headstones going in the direction where both his parents, grandparents, and LeFou’s mother were buried.

In the shadows, sitting in the grass next to his mother’s grave was LeFou, his arms wrapped around his knees as he spoke quietly. He hadn’t noticed Gaston yet.

Not wanting to intrude upon his private moment, Gaston waited until LeFou stopped talking, and put his face into his arms. Gaston tried to think of a way to break the ice. If he was lucky, to even make LeFou smile as he approached. “You know…” He started. “For someone who hates the cold, you picked an odd time out for a walk.”

Startled, LeFou turned to see Gaston coming up, but even then he couldn’t manage a smile.  “You found me,” LeFou turned his eyes away. “I should have known I couldn’t sneak out without the great hunter noticing.”

Gaston sat down beside LeFou, only a few inches away, but not touching. “Are you cold?” He asked.

LeFou shrugged. “I can’t… really tell right now.”

Gaston put an arm gently around his friend. “Do you want to talk about it?”

LeFou leaned into Gaston, He let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding in. Gaston was the one person that could make him feel when he couldn’t before. “When my papa is gone one day, I don’t want him buried here.” LeFou said as he had been thinking about it. “Mama deserved better than him in life, and she shouldn’t have to be with him in death too.”

Gaston pulled LeFou in just a little closer and rubbed his arm tenderly. “She’ll never have to see him again.” Gaston said. “And neither will you. She’s in Heaven, now, LeFou. Waiting for us.”

LeFou nodded, hearing Gaston say that made it feel better somehow. “I miss her, still. After all these years.” LeFou laid down in the captain’s lap.

“I don’t think the wound ever fully heals when you lose a parent.” Gaston empathized. He gently ran his fingers through LeFou’s hair and pulled his coat up closer around his neck to keep him warm.

LeFou started to relax. Gaston leaned against the headstone behind him, giving his back support from sitting on the ground. “She would be proud of you.” Gaston said. “She would say, what a brave boy I raised, and my what a handsome, brave companion he has.”

A burst of laughter escaped LeFou’s lips, and he snuggled deeper into the warmth of Gaston’s lap.

“She would love you.” LeFou told him with a sigh, already feeling much better than he had before. “Somehow, I know she would have been okay with… us.”

Gaston took a moment before answering, just feeling the soft texture of LeFou’s hair and the steady rhythm of his breath. “I have hoped the same of my father. I never… got to tell him. I just never knew what to say, or if I should say anything. But I know he would have loved that we are happy.” Gaston let out a breath. “Though there are times I think he did know.”

LeFou rubbed Gaston’s leg gently and closed his eyes. It wasn’t much darker behind his eyelids than it was in the night. “Maybe he did.” LeFou whispered.

Gaston ran his fingers over LeFou’s hairline, down to his ear, rubbing his ear lobe for a moment before tracing his fingers down his jawline to his chin. “They must sometimes look down at us, LeFou. And I know they are proud of everything we have accomplished together.”  

LeFou hummed in response, too tired to speak due to the huntsman's hypnotizing touch. Gaston focused on running his fingers along LeFou’s most sensitive spots against his neck and head, making LeFou’s heartbeat slower and his breathing heavier.

There were only a few hours until dusk, and Gaston didn’t want to wake up LeFou, so he sat there, holding him until the sun’s first light.

Before the villagers started rising from their beds, Gaston shuffled enough to wake LeFou. He sat up, surprise overcoming his face. They had stayed out during the last hours of the night, in the winter no less.

“Good morning, my love.” Gaston said, shifting to get some of the stiffness out of his body.

LeFou wiped his eyes, feeling much better than he had when the night was upon them, though his body was achy.

“Good morning, Gaston.” LeFou yawned.

Gaston wiped a strand of LeFou’s messy hair behind his ear and would have kissed him, but now that it was light he didn’t risk it.

LeFou smiled in response as Gaston got up, stretching the rest of the sore muscles. LeFou came up from the ground and shivered, pulling his coat closer around him. “It’s so cold.” He said, his beautiful smile returning to his face. “Do you want to stop by the tavern for some warm drinks and breakfast?”

Gaston ran his fingers through his hair to make it look a little more decent. “How do I look?” He asked LeFou, considering dropping by the cottage first to freshen up.

LeFou blushed and touched Gaston’s arm, leaning in slightly. “Handsome as ever.” He promised.

Gaston put his arm around LeFou as they walked down the path, away from the graveyard. “You don’t happen to have a spare ribbon do you?” Gaston asked as they passed the gate.

LeFou giggled. “No, but you look fine, I promise.”

Gaston raised his eyebrow, a smirk on his face, of course he looked fine. “It’s almost like we’re coming home from battle, all over again. All war weathered and rugged.” He told LeFou, who just smiled happily, a laugh escaping his mouth.

“I love you wildly, Gaston.” LeFou said as they walked towards the tavern.

Gaston did not pull his arm away from LeFou even as people started making their way from their cottages. “I love you too LeFou, more than ever before.”

***

Gaston crouched down near his father’s headstone. He was calm, and he didn’t feel emotional. Well, not that emotional. He just wanted to tell his father something. Before he spoke, Gaston felt a bit silly. He was glad he had waited until dark to come out.

“Good… evening, father.” Taking a deep breath, he kept going. But oh, how he missed him. “I need to tell you something. I have to be quick because LeFou is at home making dinner.”

Gaston placed his hand on the headstone. Now the emotions started to kick in. He tried not to cry. “It’s about LeFou. Father, he…” Gaston felt nervous, as though his father were really listening. But he was, wasn’t he?

Gaston swallowed back the fear of disappointing his father and dropped the rest of the way down to his knees, allowing his head to rest on his arm, on top of the stone. “LeFou makes me feel things…” He whispered now. “I love him, father. I know you knew we were close. Maybe too close when it comes to most boys. But you never seemed to mind. I love him more than anything. More than I could ever love anymore.” The words seemed to flow better now. “He’s my moral compass, now that you're gone.” Gaston said as though his father were only on holiday. “He’s the love of my life. And I… I’m in love with him.”  

The silence that followed was much like the silence Gaston was afraid would accompany this unprepared speech if he had ever come out to his father when he was alive. Gaston fought back the emotion as tears started to develop. He cleared his throat, quickly regaining his natural composure. “I don’t know how you feel, and I wish I did.” Gaston suddenly felt very cold and alone. Did this mean his father wasn’t happy with what he just told him? Gaston shook the feeling and stood up to leave, his breath catching in his throat, this was silly, he told himself.

As Gaston turned to leave, before he was reduced to tears, three words entered his mind, as if only a thought.

“You do know.”

Gaston froze and turned back to the headstone. His face grew very warm against the cold evening air.

“You do.”

Gaston played the words in his mind again. He focused on holding the emotion at bay, as he knelt back onto the ground and placed a hand on the stone.

“Of course I do…” A laugh escaped Gaston’s lips, one that replaced the urge to cry. “You always excepted us. How could I have ever doubted you? You were a splendid father, and I gave you the hardest time sometimes.” Gaston laughed again, this time through tears that escaped rebelliously. But he didn’t care. It was only his father here. “I suppose you were probably the same with grandfather, and my son will be the same way when I am a father.”

Gaston wiped away the tears. “Poor LeFou, having to chase around a boy like me one day.” He laughed, rubbing at his eyes. He took a breath to steady himself.

Gaston realised this conversation had gone very much like the ones with his father when he was a lad. It started off with him feeling sad or angry and ended up feeling better at the end. As long as he wasn’t in trouble for something that is. Somehow, his father had managed to make him feel better and accepted him without ever saying a word, without even being alive. That blew his mind.

“I miss you.” Gaston leaned his head on the stone. “So much.”

“I am with you always.”

Some of his father’s words in his last days played in his head. He could still hear his father so clearly. But tonight, it was more clear than usual. Tonight he felt his father must be close.

“I wish LeFou could have had you for a father.” Gaston waited a moment in the silence and stood up, leaving his hand on the stone a moment longer. “Good talk.” He released a content sigh and patted the stone. “Have a… good night father. I love you.” With that, he turned to leave, the memory of his father taking him by the shoulders and hugging him, flashing through his mind.

“I am proud of you, my son.”

Gaston could still hear him so clearly. Not looking back, he passed the gate and made his way home.

When Gaston entered the cottage, LeFou was there to greet him with a kiss. “Did you tell him?” He asked.

“I told him.” Gaston took LeFou into his arms.

“What did he say?” LeFou took Gaston’s hands, pulling him into a slow dance, just as snow started to fall past the window.

Gaston felt his heart warmed by LeFou’s presence. “He said that he knew and that he is proud.”

“Good. My mama is too.” LeFou said and stole a kiss.

“Did you tell her?” Gaston twirled LeFou just as the kettle began to sing.

“No, I had a dream last night. She told me.” LeFou pulled away from the embrace and went to the kitchen. “Dinner is served, my darling.” His voice carried into the sitting room.

Gaston was glad LeFou was feeling better, and that he had resolved things with his father. Despite the fact that their beloved parents were gone, somehow he knew that it was true. The ones who you love, and who are gone, are always closer than you think.

The End    

Chapter Text

Even A King Needs Rest

LeFou arrived home from the market late that Friday morning. He put away all the purchased goods and went upstairs in search of Gaston. The Captain was last seen working on a budget for their next holiday.

He frowned when he found him missing from the room. His coat was left behind on the chair, in front of an array of parchment on the desk, splattered with ink, and an open pouch of coins.

LeFou pulled one of the pieces of parchment forward, where multiple numbers and scribbled out calculations cluttered the page. He smiled, thinking of Gaston trying so hard even though he hated doing things with numbers.

He left the room behind and went down the hall to find Gaston’s bed chamber door left open, no one inside except Daisy, who looked up at him from the bed with curious eyes.

“Hello, girl.” LeFou said sweetly. The collie jumped off the bed, perking her ears and wagging her tail. LeFou gave her a rub on the head. “Do you know where Gaston went?” The dog answered with a tilt of her head, and LeFou went back into the hall.

“Honey?” LeFou knocked on the privy door next. He entered when there was no answer. His eyes widened when he saw the huntsman in the bath. His natural confident behaviour at rest while he lay in the embrace of sleep.

LeFou came near the bath. Noticing he looked a little pale, he put his hand on Gaston’s forehead. A look of concern crossed his face when he felt how warm he was. “Gaston?” LeFou gently caressed his face. Gaston’s eyes opened and he looked to LeFou, a little surprised that he was there, but glad nonetheless. He took his hand, sleepiness still in his eyes. “Are you feeling alright?” LeFou asked him.

Gaston moaned and sat up, the water moving with him. “I don’t know. My head is spinning.” He frowned.

LeFou took in a breath, he could definitely hear a sickness creeping up in Gaston’s voice. He hurried to the cupboard and took a towel, setting it on the edge of the bath for Gaston. “Come to bed my love, I will make you some soup for lunch.”

Gaston grumbled in response and got up slowly. Wrapping the towel around his middle, he followed LeFou to the bedroom, leaving a trickle of water behind him.

LeFou had just pulled back the blankets when Gaston came in. “How do you feel, honey?”

“Tired.” Gaston said and shuffled through the cupboard for a pair of nightclothes. Realizing he was far too tired to do anything but sleep today, he pulled on a pair of breeches and dried off his hair while LeFou waited anxiously for him to get in bed.

“Do you want me to get the doctor?”

“I’ll be alright, LeFou.” Gaston promised. “It’s nothing serious.”

Daisy the collie jumped on the bed as if knowing the huntsman was sick, and watched him until he laid down. She rested her head on his side.

LeFou pet Daisy’s head and pulled the blankets over Gaston before kissing him gently. “Are you hungry?” He asked. “How long have you been feeling this way?”

Gaston closed his eyes. “A little this morning and more throughout the day.” Gaston told him. “Maybe I will be hungry after a nap.” He replied drowsily.

LeFou got a cool cloth and put it over his head, though the huntsman was already nearly asleep when he did so.

After making soup, LeFou found Gaston awake, but not feeling much better. The man moaned and groaned as he sat up against the pillows tiredly. “I would rather be outside. Not cooped up in here all day.” Gaston grumbled.

“I know, but you’re not getting up until you feel better.” LeFou got into bed with him, gently placing a hand on his arm.

Gaston sighed. Whenever he was sick LeFou became such a mama bear. It was ridiculous, but deep down he loved it.

“As soon as you’re better you can return to being the mighty hunter, but even the king needs rest, my love.” LeFou said gently.

Gaston set his bowl aside, after not eating much of his soup. He laid down, right next to LeFou’s lap.

LeFou ran his fingers in the huntsman’s hair, gently pulling him into sleep as Gaston breathed a little better than before.

Gaston fell to sleep peacefully in the arms of the man he loved, for a change, being the one taken care of. But it was okay you see because yes, LeFou was right. Even a king needs rest.

The End     

Chapter Text

Every Day Is A Little Brighter

It had been two months since they returned home from the war. Two months since LeFou’s father was banished from the village by Gaston. Following the event, LeFou spent his days getting rid of most everything in his old house, aside from the furniture and some things that belonged to his mother. What wouldn’t sell of his father’s belongings, he gave to the poor. And what the poor wouldn’t have, was burnt or put inside an old chest to be sorted.

LeFou hardly spent any time at the old cottage anymore. When he did, it was mostly just to clean it up and keep it looking decent. At least from the outside, where everyone could see. He thought of how well this cottage suited his family. Small and homey, with roses growing by the gate and stones where the path led up to the front. Some might think it was a lovely place to live, but on the inside, it was falling apart. The lock on the door was always breaking, there were at least two or more leaks in the roof. The stone walls on the inside were cold and bare, and a constant draft crept up from the cracks in the stone floor, making it unbearable in the winter.

With a grunt, LeFou pushed open the creaky, solid window, letting in the cool breeze of mid spring. He took the broom from beside the fireplace and started to sweep the dirt and cobwebs out the open front door. After he had managed to get the floors looking mostly presentable, he opened the cloak closet with a frown, shaking any and all memories from his mind as best as he could. He jumped when he heard the gate in front close and placed a hand to his chest, scolding himself for imagining that his papa just got home from work. He looked towards the front and saw Gaston walking up the path with a picnic basket and a fur blanket draped over his arm.

LeFou smiled, he was just as handsome as ever, in his white shirt, red braces, and those form fitting, tan trousers. He bit his bottom lip and walked over to the door where Gaston could see him.

“Hello, LeFou. I told you I would return with lunch.” Gaston said cheerfully. “I hope you didn’t get too much done without me.” He walked inside and set the basket down on the red bricks of the fireplace. “We will work more after we’ve had a good lunch.” He told him.

“I only swept.” LeFou said with a forced smile. “I was about to go through the last of my papa’s stuff but…”

Gaston touched LeFou’s face, silencing him as he brought his thumb just over his cheek, wiping away a smudge of dust. “It will get easier, my love.” He promised.

LeFou took a breath, how did Gaston always see right through him?

He leaned into Gaston as he was pulled into a hug. “I just keep expecting to see him walk through the door. I keep hearing the work going on at the smithy and I forget for a moment that I’ve given my father’s position over to Yuval.” LeFou told him, nearly falling short of breath just from the tension of it all.

Gaston took the shorter man by the shoulders and got his attention. “He’s gone for good, LeFou. You don’t have to worry about him anymore. It’s just us now, with the whole world in front of us, no one can keep us from living the most of our lives, together.”

LeFou blushed, longing to kiss the man when he brought his face so close. “Together.” He moved in for another needed hug. When LeFou left the huntsman’s embrace, he felt a little better than he had before. Gingerly, he went to take the chest from the closet, needing to get it over with so he could return to what was important, Gaston.  

Gaston took a log and some sticks from the wood basket and placed it into the hearth, creating a basis for the fire to start. He laid out the blanket on the floor and struck a match.

LeFou opened the chest, going through the few mix-matched items. “I’m not sure what to do with all this.” LeFou said with a sigh and dragged the chest over to the blanket.

Gaston sat back on the blanket, watching the fire start to rise as a cool breeze from the outside came through the cottage door and stirred through his hair. He leaned forward to blow on it a little, increasing the flame. He prided himself on how quickly he managed to start the fire.

“It’s all rubbish.” LeFou picked up a torn up, faded book from the chest.

“What is it?” Gaston took the picnic basket from the bricks and set it down between himself and LeFou. He took the book from him too.

“It’s just his old notes…” “LeFou looked down at his hands. “Stuff about blacksmithing. I have no idea what most of it even…” LeFou stopped and looked up with a gasp when Gaston through it into the fire.

“Let it burn.” Gaston watched as it began to catch fire. The pages bent into blackness as LeFou stared. “Let it burn, just like him.”

LeFou covered his mouth and didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.

“What else is in there?” Gaston asked.

LeFou shook his head, a smile forming on his lips. “Have at it, Captain.” LeFou pushed the chest forward to meet Gaston.

Gaston looked inside, taking a pair of old gloves that looked like they had been worn for a dozen winters. “Help yourself to lunch, LeFou.” Gaston threw the gloves into the fire along with the old book. The fire seemed to love it and grew higher.

LeFou opened the picnic basket to find English roast, cheese, bread, fried eggs, and wine. “Oh, what a feast.” LeFou leaned in to kiss Gaston’s cheek. “This looks so good my love.”

Gaston took an odd looking instrument from the chest. “I just told Bastien to give us what was on the lunch menu.” Gaston turned to look at LeFou. “What is this?” He asked him.

LeFou started taking the food from the basket and looked oddly at the instrument. “Something to do with blacksmithing.” LeFou shrugged. “I don’t know. Papa had all kinds of stuff like that lying around. It’s just one of the things that no one took.”

Gaston flipped it between his fingers. “Well, it won’t burn. I’ll run by later and see if Yuval can put it to good use.” Gaston slid it carelessly across the floor to the doorway. He wiped his hands off on his trousers and took the food LeFou was holding out for him. “Thank you, LeFou.” He said, starting on his lunch.

“Thank you for helping me today, Gaston.” LeFou said. “It’s a lot less miserable with you here.”

Gaston placed a hand on his shoulder. “You know I wouldn’t have it any other way old friend, I will always be here for you.”

LeFou smiled and started with his lunch, putting the meat, bread, and cheese together. “Would you like to go on a walk tonight? When we’re done here. For old time's sake?” He asked.  

“Sounds delightful.” Gaston pulled out a small, dark blue blanket. “A baby blanket?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

LeFou turned red. “Oh…that’s just, nothing.”

Gaston smiled and threw the blanket to LeFou. “Your old baby blanket? That is adorable LeFou.” Gaston said with a smirk. “What is it doing in this chest?”

LeFou took the blanket and set it aside. “I don’t know, I just didn’t know what else to do with it. It’s still in good condition, and it felt strange just giving it away.” LeFou looked inside the chest. “It looks like this is all that’s left.”

Gaston raised a playful eyebrow. “Well, who knows, maybe you’ll have a little reason to use it one day.”  

LeFou pulled out a few old shirts. When he did, a small object fell from one of the pockets onto the blanket. LeFou picked it up and held it in his open palm. “A ring?” LeFou handed it to Gaston.

Gaston looked the small copper band over and tried to slip it on his pinky but it wouldn’t fit. “It’s a woman’s ring.” He handed it back.

LeFou looked at it with intensity. “My mothers?” LeFou slipped it on his pinky. Unlike Gaston’s, it actually fit. “She was buried with her wedding ring. I wonder where this one came from.” LeFou shrugged, accepting the fact that he might never know.

“Could have been a ring from her youth. Maybe her mother’s or a friend's?” Gaston guessed.

LeFou looked at the ring curiously. “Either way, it's a part of her.” He said with a warm smile before he continued with the last items in the chest.

He picked up a very old shirt and threw it into the fireplace. “There.” LeFou said as the shirt began to smoulder, bringing extra smoke seeping from the fireplace. “Now he can’t hurt us anymore.” LeFou rubbed the smooth band around his finger.

Gaston had the most curious feeling that LeFou was speaking to his mother. Lovingly, he pulled LeFou in by his side and kissed his head. “Well done my friend. Now that he’s gone, every day will be a little brighter than the last.”

LeFou leaned happily into the warm embrace and began nibbling on what remained of his lunch. With his papa now out of his life, LeFou felt he could be truly himself at last.

The End  

Chapter Text

An Unexpected Kiss

Like thunder, the roar of waves crashed down upon the smooth sand, sending shells and ocean debris scattering across the shore. The full moon lit the dark path as Gaston and LeFou walked hand in hand along the vast ocean's edge.

The salty breeze blew gently through LeFou’s hair, filling his senses with a much different nostalgia than he was used to. Another wave crashed down upon the shore, this one nearly reached where they walked, leaving behind footprints in the sand.

A white shell left behind in the current caught LeFou’s attention. He stopped to pick it up, prompting Gaston to stop and watch what he was doing. “Look at this one Gaston.” He showed him the perfect round shell, its edges running a unique design across its face.

“You are going to have so many shells by the time we leave Montpellier beach, you won’t know what to do with them all when we arrive home.” Gaston chuckled.

“Maybe I’ll give some to the villagers.” LeFou slipped the shell into his bag and wrapped an arm around the huntsman’s waist. He was glad almost no one was out on this late night. Normally the coast was filled with people, so they couldn’t show affection so openly.

“I doubt some of the children in Villeneuve have ever seen a sea shell before. Or the ocean for that matter.” Gaston put his arm around LeFou as they continued to walk, their height difference more obvious now as they walked so close together.

“Everyone should see the ocean at least once in their life. But it’s not for everyone. Some might prefer the forest.” Gaston for one, knew he was one of those people, but a trip to the ocean was good every once in a while. And the seafood was delicious.

LeFou watched as a seagull soared gracefully overhead. “It is so fascinating to visit the ocean, especially the first time. All the strange animals and the endless water.”

Gaston laughed at a memory. “I still remember the first time we came here together, do you remember that? We were so young. Our parents brought us.”

LeFou scrunched his nose, trying to recall a bit of information that had gotten lost over the years. “Ohh, the village holiday. A few of the other families back home joined us.” LeFou recalled. “But I don’t think it was this beach that we went to, Gaston.”

Gaston pursed his lips, trying hard to recall the information. “Wasn’t it?” He asked, now unsure.

LeFou held his hand tighter, swinging their arms back and forth as they walked through the sand. “No, it wasn’t Montpellier.” LeFou reminded him. “The adults decided not to come here, because it was more expensive, and some of the families couldn’t afford it.” LeFou said with a sigh. “It was the Perpignan beach, right near the border of Spain.”

“Ah, yes!” Gaston recalled. “I remember now. We were hardly old enough to understand what another country was. Who knew we would be fighting them in a decade.

LeFou pulled Gaston’s arm around his shoulders. “Those were some of the best times with my mother.” LeFou said, lost in memory. “She looked so happy by the ocean. I don’t know if she had ever seen it before, but she looked so free.”

“Probably because your father stayed back at the inn most of the time.” Gaston pulled the man closer to him.

“He never liked the smell of the ocean.” LeFou said with a sigh.

“He never liked much of anything if I recall.” Gaston said critically.

LeFou looked up at Gaston. “That holiday was one of the first times I saw you as my hero. Do you remember?”

Gaston shook his head, that wasn’t the way he remembered it. “My father was more of the hero that day. He was the one that chased the bullies away.”

LeFou squeezed Gaston’s hand tighter from over his shoulder. “Yes, but I still saw you as my hero.” Then his mind turned on a darker path. “That was the day my fear of water started.”

“Aw, LeFou. I’m sorry. I should never have led us away from the group.” Gaston watched as another wave came up to meet them.

“You just wanted to get us away from the adults so we could explore.” LeFou laughed. “We were so young and naive back then, so full of wonder.”

“One day LeFou, we will have children of our own, and they will be the exact same way.” Gaston said hopefully.

LeFou looked up at the stars as they slowed their pace. “Do you really think we will?” He stopped when Gaston stopped. “Have children.” He added.  

Gaston took his face in his hands. “Somehow, yes, some way. I want a family with you.” He said in almost a whisper, before stealing a kiss.

LeFou blushed and clung to the huntsman’s coat as they walked once again. The thought of having a family with Gaston thrilled him but also filled him with fear. How would they manage? Who would have their children and who would ever agree to such terms? Of course, Gaston could adopt but he wasn’t sure how that would look to other people. Regardless of his doubts, LeFou settled in his mind that yes, one day they would have children together, somehow. It was what Gaston wanted.

As they walked on ahead, underneath the steady flow of waves, a disturbing sound could be heard in the distance. At first, Gaston thought it was a seagull, but as they neared, their pace quickening, the sound grew louder. LeFou shot Gaston a look of concern as they ran up. A scream came clearly now from the darkness. In the shadows, several figures attacked a helpless being.

“Help! Thief! H-” A woman screamed, her voice cutting off as the sound of a fist hit her, knocking her down. The injustice of it made Gaston angry.

Gaston and LeFou ran up just as the men ran away, leaving the woman behind on the ground. Gaston left LeFou to help the woman and ran after the men, finding it harder than usual to keep pace in the sand. This, however, didn’t stop him from catching up to the beasts. There were at least three of them that he could see.

“Stop, cowards!” Gaston yelled, just out of reach of the slowest man. When he caught him, he slammed him into the sand in time to look up and find a boot in his face, knocking him onto his back.

Gaston growled, the pain only fueling him. He jumped up, and wiped away the trickle of blood that dripped from his brow.

“What is this?” Gaston said when the two others came to join their fallen companion. “Thieves with honour have we?” He mocked them and took a swing at the man who kicked him in the face, knocking him down.

Gaston dragged the third man over to the waves and held him down as the water rushed over his face. He didn’t plan on killing him, only waterboarding him a bit. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough time to do it for long as the two men from behind him grabbed him by the shoulders, knocking him down again.

“You should have minded your own business.” One of the men yelled and went to kick the huntsman in the ribs. Gaston jumped up with the skill of a stag, avoiding their blows in only a way that a man of the military could have. He swung at one of the men, knocking him down again, with a blow that would have killed a man half his size. The man who had been waterboarded sputtered and spat as he tried to regain enough control to fight Gaston.

“Your commitment to each other is touching.” Gaston smirked, swinging again at one of the men, just as the other got back up. “Tell me, how long have you been married?”

One of the men growled in outrage and charged Gaston. They dodged and swung and collapsed to the ground. Gaston punched him in the face twice before he was pulled off.

Gaston was sure there had only been three men before, but now one more joined from the darkness of the shore around them. Seaspray splashed up and the ocean roared as they fought, Gaston giving them a challenge they did not expect from only one man. But there was still only one of him and four of them.

LeFou took the woman’s shoulder as she struggled for breath, clearly shaken. “Are you alright?” LeFou asked. “Are you hurt?” The woman shook her head and clung to LeFou’s arms, grateful someone was there to help.

“I- I’m not hurt. But they got away with my purse.” She felt her face where the man had hit her. Her opposite hand held onto LeFou for dear life.

“Don’t worry.” LeFou rubbed her hand reassuringly. “Gaston will get it back, but I have to go help him, alright? We will be right back to help.”

The lady nodded her head and let go of the man regretfully, watching as he ran off to help Gaston.  

LeFou came up just as a man was leaning over Gaston. A moment later his body flew back several feet, being knocked off by Gaston. Despite the win, others joined. They were like vultures. Three other men were right on top of him now, as Gaston rolled a second man off his body into the sand, and swung at the next one.

LeFou glared at the offenders who now had Gaston back down. They were kicking at him with all they could muster. LeFou saw the woman’s purse in the hand of one of the four men closest to him. In the shadows he ran up, snatching it away from him before he ever noticed he was there.

When the man turned around in surprise, LeFou swung the bag at him with such force it knocked him into the next man, giving Gaston the room he needed to jump back onto his feet.

“Well done, LeFou!” Gaston said with enough time to remove a dagger from his side. He hoped it wouldn’t have to resort to this. None of the men seemed armed. Which was strange.

The dagger glinted in the moonlight as Gaston slashed the man in front of him with the blade, against the arm, bringing a cry from his lips. The man who had just been limp on the ground was now painfully getting to his feet.

“We have to go!” The man cried. “He’s armed!”

LeFou seemed to be the only one who noticed lights from some lanterns heading down the beach in their direction.

“Yes, you should!” LeFou screamed. “Before we show you what we can really do!” He turned to notice the same lights coming closer.

“No!” Gaston yelled, seeing the lights. “You stay where you are!” He was going to make them atone for what they had done.

Two of the men grabbed the one that had been slashed, and got him up to his feet, with the other man beside them. They knew they were defeated as the men with lanterns came closer. Attempting one last moment of escape, they ran just as the men were near.

“The thieves ran that way!” Gaston yelled. At least a half dozen men ran in the direction that Gaston sent them.

“Are you two alright, Captain?” One of the men stayed behind to see to them. LeFou gave him an odd look. How did he know he was a Captain?

“Well enough,  just a scratch.” Gaston said confidently. “Just up to my old habits.” The two joined in a manly embrace, and LeFou realised who it was.

“Haven’t seen you two in ages!” The man exclaimed.

LeFou gasped. “Patrick! How are you?” He beamed as gave the taller man a hug.

“Hello, Lieutenant.” Patrick said respectfully. “Imagine the coincidence of finding you two out here. What are you doing away from your peaceful little spot in the world?”

“We're on holiday.” Gaston told him. “And you?”

“After the war, no job seemed to match up to the value of being a soldier, so I became an officer of the law to help keep France safe.” Patrick glanced aside as the other members of his team drug the four thieves to the wheelhouse, where they would be taken to face justice.

“That should teach them.” LeFou frowned.

Gaston nodded. “And it serves them right. You did well, LeFou.”  

“These two men saved me!” The woman they nearly forgot was there, said as she approached, drawing the attention of the men. “How can I ever thank you?” She turned to LeFou and touched his arm. Gaston furrowed his brow curiously. Since when did LeFou get the attention?

“Oh- uh... Here is your purse.” LeFou handed her the bag, forgetting he was still holding it.

“Thank you.” Her eyes went between LeFou and Gaston. “Without you both, I don’t know what would have happened.”

Gaston took her hand, kissing it delicately. “It was an honour to fight for you, madam…?” He paused.

“Bernadette.” She said kindly, then turned back to LeFou, her blue eyes sparkling against the moon, the bruise against her cheekbone too dark for her pretty face.

“Do you need any help getting back to your Inn?” LeFou asked.

“I don’t want to be a bother, but I really don’t want to walk home alone.” She said.

“We don’t mind at all, do we LeFou?” Gaston cut in. “Assisting a beautiful lady such as yourself.”

The woman looked down, a blush forming on her face. “Thank you both, you’re too kind.”

Patrick laughed quietly at his friends and took them both by the shoulders to say goodbye. “I hope to see you again soon.”

“You know where we live, swing by any time.” Gaston put his arm onto the other man’s shoulder. LeFou did the exact same thing with his opposite arm.

“It was wonderful to see you again Patrick.” LeFou said. “And thank you for the assistance.”

Patrick pulled away with a smile. “Just doing my job. Have a good night boys.”

“The Inn where I’m staying, it’s just this way.” The girl said, holding her purse close, as though it would be snatched away at any moment.

As the three walked, Gaston couldn’t help but notice the girl staring at LeFou. He was completely oblivious to the fact that she couldn’t take her eyes off him. Gaston couldn’t blame her really.

“So what is a woman such as yourself doing out here in the middle of the night?” Gaston asked to break the silence.

“I just went out for a midnight walk.” She told him. “I heard it was a safe beach, but I suppose I picked the wrong night to go out.”

“And have you no husband for protection?” Gaston asked her.

“No, Captain.” She said sadly. “I am a widow. I lost my husband in the war.”

LeFou looked to Gaston, who raised his eyebrows in surprise. “Oh, I see. I’m so sorry, madam.”

The woman gave him a gentle smile. “It’s alright. The grieving process has been difficult, but I am healing.” As they came upon the Inn she pointed. “This is where I am staying.”

“That’s our stop too.” LeFou said curiously. As they approached, the lights from the lanterns revealed just how much Gaston’s face was cut up, and Aurora had a scrap on hers as well. “Do you want to come in for a moment?” LeFou asked her. “I can help you get cleaned up. I was a lieutenant in the war, and I fixed the soldiers up when they got injured.”

The girl smiled bashfully. “I wouldn’t turn my hero down, thank you, monsieur.”

Gaston struggled to laugh openly when LeFou’s face turned a bright red. He opened the door to their room and let them inside. “Your welcome to stay as long as you need, until you feel safe enough to leave.” Gaston told her casually.

“Thank you, kind gentlemen.” The woman entered the room, though naturally a little hesitant. She likely knew it was never a good idea to enter a stranger's room, but she really didn’t want to be alone right now.

“I’ll just go and get some supplies.” LeFou said, his voice high.

Gaston moved some of their luggage from off the chair for the lady so she could sit down. He sat down on the bed across from her. “It’s such a shame that anyone would taint such beauty with violence.” Gaston reached out a hand to touch her face. She blushed as Gaston brushed a strand of chestnut hair behind her ear. “Don’t worry, though. LeFou will have you fixed up in no time.”  

“You are hurt worse than I.” She blushed.

Gaston laughed. “This? This is nothing. Doesn’t even hurt.”

The girl looked around the corner to where LeFou was putting together some bandages and ointment for their scrapes. “Gaston, do you know where the… Oh, never mind I found it.” LeFou called out, then hurried back into the main room.

Gaston removed his jacket and laid it behind him on the bed, his shirt still covered in sand, along with his hair and chest. He was just about to say something else to the girl when LeFou walked in. Normally Gaston would have been LeFou’s priority but with a lady in the room, his manners got the better of him. Gaston got up to pull out a chair for LeFou and he sat down in front of the girl.

“I’m sorry if this hurts.” LeFou said gently and dabbed the rag to her scrape.

“It doesn’t, your hands are very gentle.” She told him. Gaston let himself move to the front of the bed and leaned against the pillows to watch this scene unfold. He tried desperately hard not to laugh.  

LeFou’s cheeks turned red as he pulled away from her, and added the ointment. “Thank you.” He said sweetly. “I’ve had practice.”

“I’m so glad you were there tonight.” She smiled, her cheeks blushing as well. “I know I keep saying that.”

LeFou smiled and touched up the cut on her cheek. “We were just in the right place at the right time. If it wasn’t for Gaston I don’t know how it would have turned out.”

Gaston burst out a laugh. “Oh no, LeFou. You’re the true hero here, leave me out of this.” He said with a grin, enjoying this far too much to hide it any longer. He had never seen a girl come onto LeFou quite so strong and he would have thought he might have been jealous but it was far too funny for that.

LeFou rolled his eyes, continuing his work quietly. To his regret, Gaston kept going.

“Tell her about the time in the war when you single handedly took down that Spanish captain who nearly had my head. Why, if it wasn’t for you, old friend, I wouldn’t be here to see you save this beautiful woman tonight.” He placed a hand on his chest in sincerity.  

LeFou turned to Gaston, shooting him a very dark scowl, though laced with a bit of humour.

“Do tell me, LeFou?” The girl smiled in delight.  

“He’s exaggerating.” LeFou chuckled. “It wasn’t all that. I mean… I had help, And there were distractions for the Spanish captain, so…” LeFou hesitated. “I was only protecting my own captain.” LeFou finished. He realised then he did not have the knack for telling war stories as well as Gaston did.

“Well, I think that is still so brave.” Bernadette smiled happily.

LeFou realized suddenly how close she was to his face. “I think you’re um… all good to go now, madam.”

“Then I will leave you now, but I hope to see you again?” She took LeFou’s hand. “Again, thank you for rescuing me, Lieutenant.” LeFou was too stunned to know what to do when she leaned in and kissed him.

Gaston’s mouth dropped, and a big smile crossed his face. He couldn’t believe what had just happened. He stayed completely silent so as not to break their moment.

LeFou didn’t move or even breathe as he stared dumbfounded into space. The girl got up from her chair, her face red. Clearly doing that had taken a lot of courage. “I’ll see you later Captain, I thank you as well.” She said with a bow and dashed from the room.

As soon as the door clicked behind her, Gaston let out his built up laughter. He got up quickly and took LeFou’s hand, pulling him up from the bed. “Congratulations LeFou!” Gaston grasped LeFou by the shoulders. “You’ve just been kissed by a beautiful woman! How do you feel?”

“Like I’m going to be sick.” LeFou fell back onto the bed.

Gaston furrowed his brow. “That’s natural for the first time.” He told him.

“Not my first time, Gaston. Second actually.” LeFou said, still in shock.

Gaston sat down beside him. “Right.” He remembered that LeFou had been kissed before by a girl but that was ages and ages ago, so it was basically like the first time all over again. Gaston took LeFou’s hand in his. “So what is your next move, you wild thing?” Gaston said with a smirk. “Are you going to ask her to dinner tomorrow? You could buy her some flowers first, that always seems to work.” Gaston said, more excited than LeFou was. “You could take her to the coast, that one diner on the boardwalk. Yes, at sundown, just the perfect moment to steal another kiss.”

LeFou stood up, coming back to himself. He grabbed a clean rag from the basin, and let it soak in the water for a moment, an irritated scowl on his face. “Oh, shush, Gaston.”

“I will find a girl by tomorrow so we can make it a double date.” Gaston decided. “But you have to do the asking LeFou, I’m not going to ask her for you. I know how timid you are but the women like a man with confidence!”  

“Gaston.” LeFou shook his head, a giggle escaping him. “Stop!”

“But it will be fun!” Gaston insisted.

LeFou got onto his knees on the bed and drained the rag over Gaston’s head, the streams of water dripping down his hair. This surprised the huntsman and a confused look grew on his face through a playful smile.

“Cool down tiger.” LeFou giggled, and Gaston ripped the rag away from him. LeFou put his hands on Gaston’s hands and looked into his eyes. “I don’t want to go on a date tomorrow. Unless… only with you. I just want you, Gaston.” LeFou took the rag back and gently began tending to Gaston’s wounds.

“She kissed you, LeFou.” Gaston said as though LeFou didn’t notice. “She liked you a lot, I could see it. And she was gorgeous!”

LeFou shook his head at Gaston and took the ointment. “And she was a sweet girl, but Gaston you don’t seem to understand…” LeFou continued treating Gaston. “I don’t feel anything when I kiss girls. I’ve tried… so hard. And it just doesn’t work. I don’t know why.”

Gaston nodded and took LeFou’s arm, kissing him quickly. “And how does that feel?” He asked him.

LeFou blushed. “See that works.” He dabbed the rag to the cut on Gaston’s forehead.

Gaston let it go and allowed LeFou to continue. “Well, if you still feel nothing after that, then I suppose we shall have to make it a single date tomorrow.”

LeFou’s eyes met Gaston’s dreamily, yet for only a moment as he tended to his captain.

“LeFou, will you join me tomorrow for a romantic date on the boardwalk? There may be no public kissing but I will still buy you flowers.” Gaston asked with the most sincere face.

LeFou giggled at that sweet proposal. He knew it was hard for Gaston to wrap his head around the fact that he just simply wasn’t attracted to women like that, and he never had been. As he grew older he came to the conclusion that he never would be. Where Gaston on the other hand melted like snow in the spring when he saw a beautiful woman. His charm with girls matched no level LeFou had ever met.

“I would love to go on a date with you, Gaston.” LeFou smiled happily. “And yes, only if you buy me flowers.” He winked cutely.

Gaston narrowed his eyes and touched LeFou’s legs with his hands as LeFou cleaned his wounds. “Good, then it’s a deal.” He said, a smile curving on his lips once more as he held back laughter. “I still can’t believe she kissed you.”

LeFou shook his head at the silly huntsman. “Let me clean you up and then you can kiss me.”

Gaston smirked. “Your wish is my command, my love.”

The End

Chapter Text

Faded Memories

Gaston collapsed into the sheets, a content smirk on his face. He lay exposed on the unmade bed, the afternoon sun shining in past the drapes. LeFou pulled one of the fur blankets over his body, remembering his modesty. Sleepily he snuggled up to Gaston, laying his head on the huntsman’s stomach. Gaston ran a hand through LeFou’s hair, and closed his eyes, enjoying the touch as LeFou absent mindedly caressed his hip.

LeFou was completely spent and incredibly happy. Being with Gaston was all he ever wanted, and each time they lay together he knew he had to be the luckiest man in the world. As he drifted from his thoughts, his eyes focused on the spot near Gaston’s hip where he was rubbing. There was the smallest of faded scars on Gaston’s body. When they went to war, and Gaston got his first battle scar, LeFou could tell he didn’t care for the white marks that would remain forever on his flawless body. Though he appreciated the heroism of it and loved showing it off to women.

LeFou had reminded Gaston that scars were a sign of strength and bravery, and he hoped to have made the Captain feel a little better about it. They were so young then, he remembered.  

This tiny, jagged scar, was only about half an inch long, It was so faded now, that he wasn’t surprised he hadn’t noticed it for a while. A big deal for LeFou as he knew every inch of Gaston’s body possibly better than he knew his own.

LeFou tried to remember where Gaston had acquired this scar. It had been there since the war, but he couldn’t remember where it was from. LeFou rubbed over the scar gently, feeling the calm inhale and exhale of his Captain. “Gaston?” LeFou finally asked when his curiosity got the better of him.

“What is it, my love?” Gaston asked him, eyes still closed. He might have fallen asleep soon if LeFou didn’t speak.

LeFou sat up, the blanket still draped around his body. “Where did you get this scar?” He asked and gently touched his hip.

Gaston lifted his head in question and leaned to the side, looking to where LeFou was touching. Gaston felt the scar with his hand and observed it for a moment, trying to remember as well. When the memory came to him he let his head drop back down to the pillow, eyes finding the beams that crossed the white ceiling.

LeFou flipped his hair behind his back and snuggled into Gaston, pulling the blankets over both of them as Gaston wrapped a strong arm around him.

“Was it from the war?” LeFou asked.

“No.” Gaston brought his hand up to meet his brow. “It must have been my first scar. I couldn’t have been any older than six.”

“Six?” LeFou played in Gaston’s chest hair. “How do you remember that?”

Gaston chuckled fondly. “Because we just started our studies that year. I remember how surprised my father was when I came home from school early that day, with blood on my hands from a fight. The lad threw me into one of the fences and a nail must have been sticking out. It ripped through my trousers and took skin with it.”

LeFou blushed and covered his mouth at the memory that came back. “Oh Gaston, you poor baby.” He giggled.

Gaston laughed. “I came back full force though. And whipped him twice as bad. Do you remember that boy, LeFou? His family left the village ages ago. It was a really big ordeal. I remember my father dealing with a lot from them.”

LeFou frowned and sat up. “Rolande and his family. Yes, I remember. He used to sit behind me in first year. He was always pulling my hair and stealing my stuff. Sometimes he spit on me during break time.”

Gaston huffed at the memory. “I know, do you remember what I did when I found out?”

LeFou remembered some, but the memories had faded. “I don’t recall a lot about that year.” He reminded Gaston, trying not to think of the reason why. He had been in shock when his mother died at the end of that year, and the pain of it clouded a lot of his memories.

Gaston took LeFou’s hand in his, intertwining their fingers. Comforting him with physical touch rather than discussing it. “I approached him on the way out of class one day and told him I would push him off the steps if he didn’t leave you alone. He said he didn’t think I could do it.”

LeFou winced. “Oh, that was the wrong thing to say.”

Gaston raised an eyebrow with a smirk. “When I did he got up, grabbed me, and the bustle began, right there in the yard. It must have taken Forrester ten minutes to break us up.” He laughed at that.

LeFou giggled. “I remember that now. You two were always going at it.”

“I didn’t like it that he was picking on my best friend.” Gaston pinched LeFou’s chin lovingly.

LeFou blushed and leaned on one elbow so he might stare at Gaston’s gorgeous face. “He wasn’t as bad as some of the others. And certainly not worth spilling your blood over.” LeFou rubbed the spot on Gaston’s hip where the scar was.

Gaston would have grabbed LeFou’s shirt and pulled him in for a kiss, but since he was shirtless he brought his hand around the back of his neck through his hair and pulled him in, planting a gentle kiss on his lips. “You’re always worth any amount of blood, my love. My own, or another’s.” Gaston winked, causing LeFou to swoon.

LeFou came back to Gaston’s chest. “I wonder what ever became of Rolande.” He pondered.

Gaston gently played with LeFou’s soft hair, recalling their early childhood. “My father said they moved somewhere towards the north. Other than that, I don’t think anyone has heard from them.”

“His father and my papa always but heads a lot. I remember him saying. I always felt a little bad for Rolande. His father was rough.”

“You have such a sweetheart, my beauty.” Gaston moved his hand down LeFou’s lower back.

LeFou hummed happily. “Is that how I enchanted you to punch all my bullies for me?”

Gaston laughed. “Must be.” He played along. “You must have put me under your spell.”  

The End

Chapter Text

The City Of Lights

Gaston leaned back against his chair in the bedroom, watching like a wolf watches a rabbit, as LeFou pulled out yet another waistcoat from the wardrobe and spun around to show Gaston.

“This one?” LeFou asked, feeling the velvet purple material with his open hand. “I think it has a very ‘Convient à la ville lumière.’ He told him.

Gaston raised an eyebrow, admiring the way LeFou’s hair fell around his shoulders.

“Appropriate for the city of lights.” LeFou beamed. “I cannot wait to be with you in Paris again, Gaston.” He walked up to the huntsman adoringly, placing a kiss on his cheek.

Gaston took LeFou’s face in his hands to kiss him, stopping before he got carried away. “You finish here. I’m going to go load the carriage. We will leave when the clock strikes five in the morning.”

LeFou agreed dishearteningly. He really wasn’t much for early mornings, but he knew Gaston wouldn’t have it any other way. “Alright.” He said sweetly. “So is that a yes for this one?” LeFou asked, referring to the tailcoat.

Gaston turned around at the door and faced LeFou, bringing his fingers to his chin. “Yes, and bring your leather one.” He winked before disappearing from the room, causing LeFou’s cheeks to turn bright red.

The next day, they arrived in Paris. After unloading their luggage and taking a quick nap in their room at the Inn, Gaston took them to one of LeFou’s favourite shops. One that Gaston looked completely out of place in, surrounded by all the bows, ribbons, perfumes, lace, and other pretty things. However, he couldn’t complain, as he was surrounded by beautiful beings. LeFou was one of those beautiful beings, he thought as he watched him comparing one blue silk ribbon with another red one.

Any women who walked into the shop immediately swooned when they saw the huntsman and turned to their friends to gossip about this handsome stranger. Gaston decided to be gracious and fulfil their dreams by sending occasional smoulders and winks in their direction, laughing inwardly as the beautiful women giggled and blushed. LeFou really was so much like a woman, he thought as he walked over to him. As LeFou shopped around the store. He must always protect the little man, just like he would if he had a wife.

“Gaston, I can’t decide.” LeFou turned to the huntsman as he approached.

Gaston took the blue ribbon and held it up to LeFou’s face. “The blue one, it looks good with your eyes.” He swooped a purple one from where it hung next to them. “Or this one, purple has always been your colour.”

LeFou blushed and placed the red one back in the basket. “And I already have so many red ones. Do you want any, Gaston? You could use more.” He reached across to back a black one from where it hung.

“I might as well, while we're in Paris.” Gaston took the black and blue ones for LeFou and added it to the purple. “Anything else?”

LeFou looked around the store. “Shall we check the perfumes?”

Gaston nodded his approval and followed LeFou to that part of the store. He loved seeing how happy LeFou was when he spoiled him with pretty things. LeFou was simple, but he also loved a touch of elegance.  

Gaston took a bottle of the men’s perfume. Leather and spiced liqueur.  “Now that I think of it, I am almost out of this at home.”

“Oh, I love that sent so much.” LeFou blushed, thinking of the memories connected to it.

“I remember.” Gaston said with a smirk. “As soon as you're done, I plan on going to the artillery shop. How does dinner after that, I’m getting hungry. And it’s your turn to pick the restaurant.”

LeFou smelled his second men’s perfume. “The La Petite Chaise has the best steak and really good soups, but the La Tour d’Argent has lamb, pheasant and duck.”

“I could go either way. As long as there is meat I’m happy.” Gaston looked at a girl across the room who was staring and winked.

“Then the La Tour d’Argent it is.” LeFou said cheerfully. “Shall we go?”

Gaston lead the way to the front. He purchased their items and smiled at the ladies as he and LeFou walked out of the shop. They entered the bustle of the city and made their way to the artillery shop.

LeFou walked closer to Gaston as they entered. This is where he lost interest, except for Gaston of course. LeFou watched as Gaston held a few guns in position, getting the feel of them, but not actually buying any of them. Then he went to look at the swords. By the end, Gaston purchased several packages of ammo for his guns and another whetstone for his blades. Along with one more small dagger, probably the hundredth one he owned.

Together they dropped their bags off at their room where they were staying and made their way to the restaurant.

Gaston reserved a table, and they waited at the entrance before a man at last took them to their table. LeFou walked across the gorgeous blue and gold carpets until they made it to their table for two. It was seated by the window, where they could see the city as the lanterns were all being lit before the sun went down.

Gaston and LeFou sat down in the blue cushioned chairs as the waiter set silver plates, goblets, and silverware on the table. “Can I get you anything to drink?” The French man asked.

“I’ll have the white Bordeaux wine, please.” Gaston told him, and then looked down at the menu to see what sounded good for dinner.

LeFou looked up to the handsome waiter, though he mostly only had eyes for Gaston. “And I will have the Château Citran, with a little bit of something spicy.” He told the man with a cute smile, who looked a little surprised that such an adorable man could possibly want his wine to be spicy.

“I will get those both for you right away sirs.” The man said with a smile, and a bow, before walking away from the table.

Gaston playfully glared at LeFou, squinting his eyes.

“What?” LeFou blushed, a smile on his face.

“Someone couldn’t stop staring.” Gaston smirked.

LeFou blushed. “No! That’s not..” LeFou burst into laughter. “Well, you do it all the time, Gaston!” He exclaimed, only talking loud enough for Gaston to hear.

Gaston raised an eyebrow. “I suppose that’s fair.”

When the man came back, LeFou couldn’t help but blush as he took their orders. Gaston ordered the roasted, lightly buttered blue lobster with bao bread. And LeFou got the roasted duckling with filbert nuts and tonka bean with figs from Bordeaux.

When the man walked away Gaston wrapped his legs around LeFou’s from underneath the table, making him smile. It was just another way they showed affection in public without being seen.

“I think he’s onto us.” LeFou whispered to Gaston, his hand up by his mouth.

Gaston watched the waiter as he walked away. “It’s alright, only the ones like us can tell.” He whispered back with a wink.

LeFou giggled and looked out the window. It was getting darker now, and the room was lit only by the fierce glow of all the candles. The lanterns outside glimmered beautifully across the streets, like stars among the people as they walked about doing the last of their daily activities.

When they finished their extravagant dinner, Gaston paid the bill and they left to walk the streets of the beautiful city. They were each now a little buzzed, and incredibly happy. They walked along one of the lantern lit bridges, as LeFou took Gaston’s arm, holding onto him for support.

“The city is so gorgeous.” Gaston said as they walked, people occasionally passing by. “Would you ever want to buy a home here?”

LeFou beamed, surprised by his question. “Maybe, but are you sure that isn’t just the wine talking? We love Villeneuve.”

Gaston shrugged. “Well, it would be a second home, of course. We could have servants and fancy dinners every night and go to the magnificent um…what is it? Those places.” He asked LeFou, the wine causing him to forget the names of the places that were already difficult for him to pronounce.

LeFou smiled, he loved Gaston so much. “The Comédie Française theatre and the Académie Royale de Musique opera house.”

Gaston nodded, placing his hand over LeFou’s as they stopped on the bridge to look over the water. It shimmered against the firelight and the stars above. “Yes, those places. Wouldn’t you love that LeFou? You would be happy and spoiled. You deserve to be spoiled.” He said with charm in his voice and looked at him.

LeFou nearly swooned. He leaned his head on Gaston’s shoulder and sighed in deep contentment. “I am happy, my love and you do spoil me.” He created a little distance between them as a man rode by on his horse. When he passed, LeFou returned to his former position.

“You deserve all the grandeur of the royals and the noblemen.” Gaston told LeFou, imagining it. “I can see you now, in a royal gold and purple tailcoat that costs more than our entire village.” He said in a whimsical tone.

LeFou blushed at the thought. “True wealth isn’t gold, Gaston.” He reminded him sweetly. Though it was a fun fantasy.

Gaston hummed happily, his mind a daydream with LeFou, and under those beautiful stars. “You are just… so wild, LeFou, and so… you are so beautiful.” Gaston leaned in and kissed him.

LeFou leaned into the kiss, unable to help expressing his love for the other man. When Gaston came away he covered his mouth, looking around to be sure no one saw that. “Gaston!” He blushed.

“Sorry.” Gaston looked down towards the water. “This isn’t our village is it.”

LeFou blushed, and a laugh escaped his lips. “No, and this is why we aren’t moving to Paris.” He beamed. “Though I admit, you do make it sound so wonderful.” LeFou sighed. “Come on, my love, let’s walk home, then we can…” He stopped himself from finishing the sentence out loud.

“Yes, let's.” Gaston said, a passion in his voice, getting the idea.

“Beside, Gaston. You weren’t made for the city.” LeFou mused. “You were made for fresh air and small, simple people. Good people.”  

Gaston turned the corner as they made their way back to the Inn. “I know, I would miss my forest too much.” He admitted. “And the great blue sky and the green grass and the rolling hills. But I’m glad Paris is so close. I love taking you here, my old friend.” Gaston said as they passed some more people walking by.

Together they walked into the building and made their way to the little bedroom. Gaston locked the door and pulled off his boots as LeFou walked over to the window, watching the lights for a moment before he closed the blinds.

“Do you know the story of Paris’s lights, Gaston?” LeFou asked him thoughtfully and began to take off his clothes.

“Something to do with Louis XIV, making the city a safer place for the people.” Gaston told him, stepping out of his trousers and throwing his coat and shirt over a chair. “He wanted to give them a gift after the war of their time.” Gaston added. When it came to war, he knew most of his facts.

LeFou left his clothes on his chest. He didn’t think he would need a nightdress tonight. And the way Gaston was looking at him now made him glad he closed the drapes.

Gaston smirked as he placed his hands on his hips, an eyebrow raised. “Now, LeFou. Where is your leather waistcoat?”

The End