Chapter Text
Paul whispered a quiet prayer as he laid down the bouquet of lilies by their father's grave. Louis smoked his cigarette awkwardly a few meters behind. His hands shaking as he took another hit, breathing out slowly, hoping to ease the awful pit of guilt in his stomach to no avail.
Paul looked back at him expectantly, and Louis stepped forward to his father's headstone. Grand in life, grand in death.
Louis put out the cigarette besides the bouquet,” This is for you.”
Paul put a comforting hand on Louis and pulled him into a halfway hug. Louis leaned his head onto Paul’s shoulder.
“Ain’t I supposed to be comforting you, little brother?” Louis asked,
“I’ve grieved him enough.” Paul said bluntly, “We came back here for you, Louis.”
Louis was grateful, letting tears fall in silence. The events of last week burning bright in his mind. What would his father think? What would he do?
“I don’t remember his face, you know.” Paul whispered, “I try to conjure memories but. I just remember you.”
“He sacrificed a lot.” Louis said defensively.
“If you say so Louis.” Paul said in defeat, “I just… I want you to know that.”
Louis stayed silent. Their father was a particularly sore topic for both brothers, for different reasons.
The years when their father had been alive was plagued with a long list of vague and ever-changing expectations that somehow both Du Lac sons failed without exception. Always met with a harsh punishment to drive in the lesson.
Mix that with rare moments of softness. An occasional thoughtful gift, a good mood at dinner, and perhaps even a pat on the back.
If Francis De Pointe Du Lac had been a complex man in life, he had been even more so in death.
Louis was 14 when the ground he stood on unraveled, and the world he thought he knew shattered.
Francis De Pointe Du Lac died. Leaving behind years of trauma, dirty business dealings, bankruptcy and now shame upon the family.
Perhaps it was karma for his ancestors' sins against their brother and sisters. Or a cruel joke by an uncaring god.
Their father's death taught Louis a very important lesson. Money is everything. And money, doesn’t come cheap.
However, his brother Paul, ever the contrarian, learned another lesson. Nothing material on this earth was truly yours, finding purpose in god.
And then there was Grace.
“You guys done?” She said, raising an eyebrow.
The lesson their father passed down to Grace was that anything could be taken away from you at moments notice. So, you either cling or let it go.
“Yea. We are done here.”
They started making their way back to their hotel.
New Orleans felt like an unwelcome memory for all of them. A place they only visited in nightmares.
After their father passed, their mother fell apart. Crushed by the suicide; but even more so by the shame. Rumors and disgrace didn’t come easy to Florence Du Lac.
To regain any amount of dignity she had left, she packed her bags and moved them to New York.
The childhood summer of New Orleans had passed them by, and the cold winds of New York winter had hardened all of them.
They all had to do what they could to get by.
Louis in the end was nothing if not his father's son. Whatever money was lacking he made sure to provide, by any means necessary. And that desire had led him down the path of entrepreneurship.
“I don’t know about Levi is all. He’s nice but…” Grace said, “I’m not sure I can count on him. He’s… he’s overspending a lot. He just started renting a new car, that I’m not sure he can even afford.”
Louis bit his tongue. He had recently loaned Levi some money. Guess I’m never seeing that money back
“Oh shit, I lent that dude some money and he hasn’t been paying me back. You’re telling me he’s spendin’ it all on shit?” Paul said, putting on his priest voice “in the name of the father; the son, and the Holy Spirit dump his ass.”
“Amen.” Louis seconded.
Grace looked at them bewildered, “You for real?! You too Lou? Man…”
Louis shrugged, “Sorry Grace.”
“Okay you two owe me now.” Grace said,
Paul laughed bewildered, “Grace your boyfriend owes us money, shouldn’t it be the other way around?”
“You guys made me lose a boyfriend just now, so actually you owe me. And I know exactly what I want.” Grace said, reaching for her purse and digging around.
She pulled out a piece of paper with a sun on it.
“We’re getting a sibling tattoo.”
It was good being back in New York. The air was different; they were different, Louis felt different.
There was a weight that had been lifted off all the Du Lacs siblings.
Money wasn’t tight like it was back when dad died. Louis had made sure they never would have to go through that again, and now he had enough money to never work again in their lives. For generations.
So after much convincing by his siblings Louis decided to step back and actually enjoy life.
No work. Delegate it to Rashid, and his other assistants.
Just find himself. But Louis didn’t really know where to start.
“So, what is the deal. Are you vegan, vegetarian, or pescatarian this week?” Grace asked, poking fun at her oldest brothers ever changing diet.
“Grace, I’ve been vegetarian for years and it’s not changing.” Louis denied,
Paul scoffed, “You were vegan last week.”
Grace laughed, imitating Louis “I was simply pondering the ethical dilemma-“
“I don’t monologue!” Louis protested, holding up his hands in defense.
“That’s what the Bible calls – bullshit.” Paul replied, grinning at Grace giving him a high five.
“How’s the fundraising for church going?” Louis said, feigning ignorance, I can be petty too.
“How’s your soul searching going?” Paul countered, starting to knead the pasta dough, following Graces written instructions to a tee.
Ouch. Touché Paul.
Paul was wearing a black t shirt, revealing his sun tattoo on his forearm.
“What does Jesus think of your tattoo?” Louis countered,
Paul rolled his eyes, “I believe in a progressive God Lou, and he thinks it’s kickass.”
I should know better than to try and out sass Paul at this point.
“… it’s not going great Paul. Thank you for askin’.” Louis replied,
”Keep fightin’ Lou, if you do nothing maybe the right path might just come crawling right to you.” Grace teases.
Louis was getting a call from an unknown number, playing it up “Hold on for a minute, maybe this is it.”
“Hello?”
“Hi, Louis? Um, I hope you’re doing well. This is Madeleine, from church? I hope this is not too weird for you that I’m calling?” Madeleine’s voice was filled with doubt and panic,
Why the hell is she calling me?
“No, it’s fine. You doin’ good?” Louis asked.
“Yeah, I mean no, I mean yea,” Madeleine said, “You and Lily broke up right?”
It felt like a knife was pushed into his heart, and twisting, when he thought of Lily.
“Yes, we did.” Louis said, feeling like he couldn’t breathe.
“Great- I mean not great but-“ Madeleine stuttered, “Look I’m sorry but this is gonna sound weird but you’re the hottest person I know.”
Louis paused for a moment, waiting for Madeleine to continue. “Thank you?”
“So you’re down?” Madeleine said relieved.
“Down for what?” Louis said confused,
“Oh right I’m sorry. I’m really a mess, I haven’t slept at all last night and. Okay so. There’s this gi- guy I’ve been seeing – at least I think we were? And I thought it was going good and now some stuff happened and sh- he’s taking someone else to this party, and I was wondering if you’d like to go as my date to make them jealous.” Madeleine finished, “as a friend. But. Make it seem not.”
Louis instantly felt worried for her well-being, the Madeleine he knew was sharp witted, cool, and collected. That guy really must have messed with her head.
Old Louis would have said he’d break her arms and throw her out the window if she thought he was her boy toy fucking chaperone -
“Okay, yea of course, I’ll do it.” Louis agreed,
Madeleine sighed in relief from the other side. “Thank you, Louis, you are a saint. I will text you the details and pick you up later. Thank you thank you.”
Louis softened a bit; in a way he never had to anyone that’s not Paul or Grace.
“No problem, I’ll see you tonight. Take care.”
Grace looked up from the garlic sauce she was making, looking at him with a grin, “Louis got a daaate.”
Paul let out a playful Ooo, “who’s the lucky person?”
“Uh it was Madeleine. You know, from church.” Louis replied,
Grace and Paul looked at each other. “Well good luck. She’s… nice.”
Louis felt confused, why are they being weird for?
“Yea, as a friend tho. I’m gonna help her make some guy she was seein’ jealous.”
The revelation made both his sibling's breath out a sigh of relief.
“What? Why can’t I date Madeleine?”
Paul pretended to be remarkably busy with his pasta, and Grace attempts to glare at Paul to make him answer failed.
“Look Louis it’s just we all love you. As you are. And we are proud.” She said, leaving it at that.
Louis just felt more confused than before. “Okay? Thank you?”
“So, are you gonna take some pictures I can use for my instagram then?” Grace asked, “I need to promote myself as an up-and-coming chef you know.”
Louis relented and opened the camera app on his phone.
“Alright, I’ll do it hold on now.”
It was almost time for the party with Madeleine.
Louis felt like this was exactly what he needed. To get out there.
New beginnings.
Louis had never been to a party.
Never as a guest.
He’d only been around that time of environment on “business”.
And Louis was trying not take make it show, but he was nervous about it.
“Okay, do you think I should wear the sneakers or the loafers?” Louis asked, wearing one of each on his feet, doing a little spin in-front of the sofa where Grace and Paul were watching him.
Madeleine had told him her outfit was gonna be red leather themed, and ever the fashionista Louis thought to match her.
He was wearing a white dress shirt, red tie, with a grey jeans and cardigan and a red leather jacket to top it all off.
“Sneakers for sure.” Grace concluded, and Paul nodded in agreement.
“Something is still missing.” Paul mused, pondering.
“Got it,” he said, snapping his fingers. “Small Silver cross. Wear it over the tie, but under the cardigan.”
Grace laughed, “Why are you right tho?”
Paul scoffed, “I usually am.”
Paul was right, Louis mused, after putting on the cross necklace. It looked good.
Paul gave his shoulder a comforting squeeze.
Finally, Madeleine arrived, he opened the door and greeted her. Paul and Grace also said their hellos.
True to her word Madeleine was wearing red leather miniskirt, vest, and boots, matched with a white shirt and black fur coat.
“You look beautiful Madeleine,” Louis complimented, “he’s gonna regret every choice he made in his life that strayed from you.”
Madeleine smiled shyly at the compliment, “Thank you Louis. You look perfect. We really do match.”
“Okay let me get a picture of you two,” Grace said, taking up her phone. “Oh, yea pose, you two look great”
Louis and Madeleine entertained his sister, posing dramatically for each picture.
“You should post this one” Grace said, “you look straight out of vogue.”
Louis looked at the picture, it was him and Madeleine, back-to-back both looking dramatically at each other.
Louis looked to Madeleine for approval, “I love it.”
Louis instagram was barely active, just some pictures of his siblings, Daniel and some of his amateur photography. His following was just family, his church folks and Daniel.
In his old life he couldn’t afford emotional connections. Or friendships. But now. Things have changed.
Paul and Grace had been nagging him about getting himself out there now.
Madeleine however had a very big following; it came with being from a well-off family, and an incredible costume designer for movies.
Would she be embarrassed to have a photo with him?
Madeleine however took his phone and posted it with the caption, “Red heads have more fun.”
“I love it,” madeleine said again, and reposted it on her story tagging him. “And my followers are gonna go crazy over you Louis. Remind me that I have to style you sometime.”
Since he was getting back out there now… it doesn’t hurt to have a recent picture where he looks good next to a beautiful famous woman.
“They won’t even notice me, trust me.” Louis said, skeptically.
“Yea, he’s always this delusional Madeleine.” Paul said, patting Madeleines shoulder. “And good luck.”
Madeleine gave Paul a salut, “Yes Father. Amen.”
Paul laughed at her antics, “Go on now!”
Madeleine practically manhandled him out the door, and into the taxi.
“Okay so tell me. Who’s the guy and What’s the game plan?” Louis asked.
“Okay so, his name is Lestat. And we need to make him and his date jealous.” Madeleine said,
Louis raised an eyebrow,” Okay tell me about him. What kind of name is Lestat?”
”Be nice Louis. He is the lawyer, music composer and best friends with the director Armand-”
”W-wait hold ON. The Armand?!” Louis asked, ”Oscar winning movie director Armand?”
”Yes. It’s his party Louis. Anyways. Lestat is bringing Claudia De Lioncourt to the party, you know the actress?” Madeleine continued, totally unbothered by the fact they were going to-.
”Do I know her?! All of America knows her Madeleine.” Louis said, ”You’re telling me this now?”
”Look, they’re just people Louis. Calm down.” Madeleine said,
Louis took a deep breath, ”Okay so how do you want me? Am I the perfect man who swept you up, or am I the douchebag he needs to save you from?”
” First one, for sure.” Madeleine decided,” But there’s no harm in you giving Lestat a little hell.”
” Okay sure, but from what I heard you should put a ring on that man's finger.” Louis suggested,
Madeleine gave him a deadpan look, ”You sure you don’t want him for yourself?”
” Nah, don’t worry Madeleine, I got your back on this. I’ll charm your folks at the party and make Lestat suffer. Sounds good?”
” Perfect.” Madeleine said.
Louis nodded seriously, ”Aye, aye Captain.”
Louis pulled out his phone to text that to Daniel, I’m going to a party hosted by movie director Armand. LOL shit is crazy.
Daniel responded with.
Pics or it didn’t happen.
His movies are weird as hell. But kinda freaky.
In a good way.
It’s good you’re getting out there. We need more friends Louis, and we both know I’m not the one who’ll make them.
Louis replied, I’ll what I can do.
“We’ve arrived” Madeleine said,
The party was held at a fancy penthouse in the upper east side; it was celebrating the Oscar nomination of Armand’s newest movie The Maitre. It was a party for the crew, friends and family.
While in the elevator Louis anxiety took hold. He was worried he’d be out of place, like everyone would look at him and wonder what the hell he was doing there.
When old Louis walked through the door it was with purpose and power. He’d walk in there, charming and intimidating, and focused.
Now he was new Louis. Wondering what the fuck he was doing.
Madeleine must have sensed this turmoil in him, and took his hand in hers and squeezed. “Those bitches are gonna be so jealous over my date. It’s show time.”
The elevator doors opened to the fanciest party Louis had ever seen.
There was not as many people as Louis had expected, it was a bit more intimate, 50 people at maximum, the penthouse apartment housed them with enough space for it to be pleasant.
Louis scanned the room but didn’t see Claudia anywhere, feeling a bit disappointed.
“Okay, can you point out this Lestat for me?” Louis asked, ”I don’t see Claudia anywhere.”
Madeleine leaned down to whisper to him, ”You see that blonde guy beside Armand, by the window there.”
Louis subtly turned to the side to take a peek, the man did not look like Louis expected.
He had long blonde hair down to his shoulders, a white dress shirt with a with a sunflower brooch by his heart, black suit pants and boots with heels a little too high for a man.
Louis stop. You’re not your mom. Men can wear heels.
He was very handsome. According to Madeline he was a talented musician, obviously smart since he’s a lawyer, and could be an actor based on his looks. Louis understood why Madeleine was so bewitched by the man.
Beside him was Armand, dressed in brown pants, and an creamy white dress shirt with the first few buttons undone. He looked painfully effortless and soft.
“Wanna go up to them?” Louis asked,
“Non, let’s wait until Claudia joins them.” Madeleine said, and moved them to another group of people.
Louis recognized some of them from movies. They were pleasant enough and Louis tried his hardest to charm them.
They seemed to like him, but Santiago seemed to be alternating between passively insulting Louis and aggressively flirting with him.
Louis looked around the room for an excuse to leave before he started a fight.
Louis saw what looked like an original Rowan Mayfair painting. No way.
“Excuse me Madeleine, I’m gonna take a look at that painting. I’ll be back real soon.” He said, kissing her hand as the others coo.
“What a gentleman,” he heard Chantelle tell Madeleine as he walked away.
Yeah. I’m killing it.
Louis looked at the painting transfixed, there was no mistaking it. It was an original. And it was amazing.
The painting was of a boat, out on a stormy sea. Drifting away. Something about it just resonated deeply with Louis.
“Do you like it?” A voice asked. “I had to call in a favor to get it. But I’d say it was worth it.”
Louis looked over to see Armand and tried to not look as star struck as he felt. He made sure to straighten his posture.
“I’m Armand, by the way” he introduced, holding a hand out for Louis. “I would have remembered meeting a man like you. So, I’m assuming you’re a friend or partner of my crew.”
“I’m Louis. I’m here with Madeleine.” Louis said, shaking his hand.
“So, you’re a friend or boyfriend of hers?” Armand asked, “I didn’t know she was dating someone else.”
Armand glanced back quickly to where Lestat was standing, having now been joined by Claudia.
Louis followed his gaze and saw Lestat staring at them. While Claudia gaze was distracted elsewhere in the crowd.
Louis averted his gaze instantly,
“It’s a recent development.” Louis said giving Armand a smile open to interpretation.
Louis desperately wanted to change the topic.
“This is my favorite painting of hers actually. ‘Demons at sea’.” Louis began, getting back to the painting. “She really captured the vulnerability you feel when life slips away from your own hands, and into chaos.”
“Well said. Mayfair really tackles the themes of trauma.” Armand added. “The added detail of the unused lifeboat… it says a lot, doesn’t it?”
“Oh god yea, it’s sometimes easier to stay on the stormy sea trying to survive, than taking the risk of rowing into the unknown. “ Louis said, perhaps sharing a bit too much.
Armand looked soft, and vulnerable. “A certain death or the fear of an uncertain life, the choice can feel suffocating.”
“It has a dream like quality, don’t you think?” Louis asked.
“No. It feels like a it feels like a really bad memory.” Armand countered,
“Memory is a monster – as said by Daniel Molloy.” Louis said, remembering.
Armand raised his eyebrows in surprise, “You just gave me goosebumps. I’ve never heard that quote before.”
“You wouldn’t. It was said offhandedly by my best friend, he’s insanely smart like that. He’s a Pulitzer in waiting.” Louis said, grinning with pride.
Daniel is my boy.
“I have to meet you again; I like you too much to let you go I’m afraid.” Armand declared, pulling out a business card. “Next weekend I’m throwing a dinner get together. I’d like for you to attend. Text me later, and I’ll send you the details.”
“I look forward to attending.” Louis replied, taking the card and feeling Armand caressing his hand while doing so.
“Hi Armand! I’ve seen you have met Louis.” Madeleine said, approaching them. Greeting Armand with two kisses on his cheeks.
European sensibilities.
“Madeleine, lovely. Claudia was looking for you.” Armand said.
“We should go and say hi.” Louis decided, holding Madeline by her waist.
Armand led the way, looking a bit anxious and excited at the same time.
Louis leaned down and whispered in Madeline’s ear, “And now the battle begins.”
Madeleine smiled leaning up against him, putting her hand on his chest “Let’s give them hell.”
Claudia was shorter up close, but just as stunning. She was wearing a yellow gradient dress, that has more intense color on the bottoms The dress has good movements.
He understood why Lestat would want to date her. But… as Louis saw them talk to each other, Louis couldn’t help but feel they lacked chemistry.
“Hey,” Armand greeted, “I found Madeleine. And of course, my new friend.”
Louis saw Lestat throwing a challenging glare at Armand.
What’s that about?
Louis held out his hand to greet Claudia, who looked at him like he’d eaten her cat. Claudia reluctantly shook his hand.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Claudia. Madeleine told me so much about you.” Louis said, which wasn’t true, but felt good to say.
”Funny. I’ve heard nothing about you.” Claudia said sharply.
“Maybe you don’t listen,” Madeline shot back.
Louis was distracted from the girls conversation when Lestat held his hand out for Louis.
“I’m Lestat De Lioncourt. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you…?”
“Louis De Pointe Du Lac.” Louis filled in, shaking the other man’s hand.
Lestat let out a laugh, “Louis, of course it’s Louis.”
Louis was confused, he felt weirdly warm, his heart was beating faster and his lungs felt like they were being constrained by a tiny sting.
”Somethin’ funny?” Louis asked with a strained voice.
“No, it’s just my family history. We used to go to war for Saint Louis.” Lestat explained, his blue eyes locked into Louis hazel eyes.
Louis didn’t know how to begin processing what the other man said.
So, he chose not to.
Lestat didn’t let go of his hand, just kept looking at him. The cold metal from the rings on the man’s fingers send a chill down his spine.
”What happened to your hands?” Lestat asked, his thumb caressing one of the many scars on Louis hands.
Europeans are so touchy.
”I practice Martial arts,” Louis avoided the truth, taking his hand out of the other man’s grasp finally.
“Is your sparring partner a cactus?” Lestat asked with a sarcastic tone, not believing him.
“Be nice.” Armand warned. “I finally found someone new interesting to talk to. Try not to scare our new friend away.”
“We are not going be friends, Armand” Lestat scoffed, looking at Louis again with that weird look in his eyes.
“I second that.” Claudia joined the conversation again, sizing up and judging Louis with her eyes.
“Well, that’s better. I’d like to keep Louis all to myself.” Madeleine said, putting her hand on Louis arm.
Louis pulled Madeleine closer, whispering in her ear,” Act like I whispered something funny and romantic.”
Madeleine looked down, red in the face and giggling.” Louis” she whined, teasingly.
She was a stellar actor, even Louis pulled back and wondered if he really did say something romantic and sexy.
And with that they had unleashed the beasts.
Lestat and Claudia looked at the pair with almost identical looks of disgust, anger and jealousy.
They could be related Louis supposed. Wait no ew.
They’re here on a date. Louis stop.
Madeleine batted her eyelashes at Louis and hit his arm playfully.
Louis confidence came back. I can do this.
Louis giving Madeleine what he hoped was a smitten look.
But he saw Armand to his left looking amused and skeptical, like he saw right through it.
“How did you two meet? I’m just so curious because I’ve literally never heard of you.” Claudia said,
Okay sell it.
“We go to the same church, so I’ve been aware of Madeleine.” he looked at Madeleine for approval. “And I recently became singel so…”
“Since I’m also apparently single I decided to finally shoot my shot, and ask Louis out.” Madeleine said.
“Yea and what does your cat think about you just bringing around random men?” Claudia asked, coldly. “Did you consider anyone else’s feelings or do you just do whatever you feel like?”
Louis had a sneaking suspicion this was not about the cat but-
“Wait you have a cat?” Louis said, excitedly, “I love cats.”
Madeleine pulls out her phone and showed him a picture of a fluffy ragdoll.
“This is Apricot.”Madeline switched to a new photo, and then a video, and another.
“Look at her.” Louis cooed, without thinking.
Lestat laughed at him, and Louis wanted to kill the man.
I’m so embarrassing.
Louis knows he always was ridiculous when it came to cats. But they’re so cute. Louis couldn’t help it.
“You didn’t even know she had a cat?” Claudia asked, like he was horrible.
Louis made a strained face, man I’m not doing a great job of this whole dating thing.
“It’s a bit hard to listen to everything when I get distracted by that Beautiful face.” Louis said turning on his charm.
Louis took Madeleine by the hand and spun her around, and his voice turned low and seductive. “I mean look at this woman. Look at all of that.”
Hyping her up as she laughed with him, trotting and making a show of herself.
Armand stirred the straw in his cocktail like he was watching a reality show that was getting real good.
“The objectification of women is alive and well I see.” Claudia said, bitterly. “What do you do for a living Louis?”
I used to be a drug dealer. Then I became a manager for an extremely lucrative hotel chain because the owners took a chance on me.
Now I live of my investments from real estate among other things.
But it’s fine because I actually have more money than I can spend in an entire life time.
Also did I mention I dropped out of high school?
Yea. Aint no way I’m saying that.
“I’m unemployed right now.” Louis said, “I’m trying to figure out what I wanna do.”
“You should consider becoming an art dealer Louis.” Armand said, smiling sweetly at him. “You obviously have an eye for it.”
I’ve… never thought of that.
Louis owned a lot of art. A lot. But he never thought of it as a business opportunity before.
Louis raised his arm and pointed to Armand in gesture, “I see you Armand. I impressed you that much, huh?”
“My old art dealer began doing acid and decided to become a DJ, so Louis. Please do me this favor.” Armand winked playfully.
“You’re unbelievable.” Lestat muttered in disgust.
Lestat and Armand looked at each other after that, seemingly fighting telepathically.
What is going on?
“It’s true, it’s amazing what you did to the townhouse.” Madeleine complimented,
Louis hadn’t done shit to the townhouse. That was all Florence Du Lac. His mom had no taste what so ever. It was all pastels and flower patterns - 1950’s grandmother style.
Louis was about to protest - it’s awful actually. You should see the Dubai penthouse. But then Louis remember they were putting on an act.
“I- uh thank your that’s so kind. I feel- wow! That’s so awesome. Of you to say.” Louis sounds so unconvincing even to his own ears.
I’m a horrible liar.
Louis heard music and people dancing- a distraction.
“Wanna dance?” He asked Madeleine, excited.
“I’d love to.”
Louis led her to the dance floor, and they were closely followed by Claudia and Lestat, as they left a protesting Armand behind.
“This was such a good idea Louis.” Claudia said innocently, “I hope you don’t fall and die.”
Madeleine replied by giving Claudia a challenging look.
The message was clear. It’s a competition.
Lestat looked confident and almost smug, and Louis kept a straight pokerface, and gestured for Claudia and Lestat to start.
I’m gonna destroy that white man.
Claudia and Lestat must have danced together a lot, because they moved like one. They were smooth, and danced like they were in a European ballroom.
They’re good.
Madeleine, whispered. “Take the lead, and we’ll crush them.”
The song came to an end, Lestat and Claudia both had an identical prideful look. They truly look related.
Louis clapped, “You two were good.”
And he meant it.
Lestat seemed to eat that compliment up like it was a 5-star Michelin meal. Claudia seemed surprised by Louis behavior and looked at him suspiciously.
The next song started, and it was more upbeat than the last. Perfect.
Louis did as promised and took the lead, he began with easier dance moves, and Madeleine kept up, and Louis sped up, spinning her around, letting her go for a second and threw in some tap dance moves. Louis then, maneuvered himself close to her and brought Madeleine closer, and then Madeleine finished by kissing him.
After the grand finale Claudia looked so angry she could cry, and Lestat held a comforting arm around her.
Louis did a playful bow directed Lestat.
The bitter taste of defeat.
“Madeleine let’s go get a drink.” Claudia said. “Now.”
Madeleine tossed her hair to the side, “Is that okay, Louis?”
“You go ahead, I’m good.” Louis replied, “I’ll find the snacks table and look at some more paintings.”
Madeleine gave a nod to him and followed Claudia, as Louis made his own way.
Louis looked at the snacks table trying to find something to eat, there are barely any good options.
Louis started picking some pineapple slices and some grapes- then once again a certain blonde menace was at his side.
Maybe I can ignore him, and he’ll go away.
And yet Louis couldn’t help himself from talking.
“Come to admit defeat?” Louis asked,
“Seeing your body move like that is not what I consider a loss. So, no.” Lestat replied, “I consider myself quite a winner.”
Louis looked at him confused, what’s this guys deal?
If Louis didn’t know better, he’d think the dude was flirting with him, not a jealous lover of Madeleine.
“These sausage bites are delicious,” Lestat said, plucking one in his mouth, and holding one out for Louis. “Do you like sausage Louis?”
“I’m vegan.” Louis replied,
Lestat let out a surprised gasp, “Non. That’s no way to live.”
“It’s actually a better way to live. For the planet and the body.” Louis said, trying his hardest not to monologue about veganism.
“But Louis you’re already so delicate.” Lestat said, like it was a weight loss diet.
“It’s an ethical philosophy Lestat. Trust me; I am anything but delicate.” Louis countered, moving away from the snacks table, to look at more paintings.
Louis ended up in-front of a Marius De Romanus painting and inspected it closely.
“Life is about enjoyment, not about feeling morally superior, you know.” Lestat voice said from behind him.
Lestat moved next to him as he ate a cheese cube with some fancy ham on it. Then he pointed at Louis with the toothpick.
“I enjoy feeling morally superior.” Louis countered,
Lestat let out a snort. “Touché. How long have you been vegan?”
“Since I was 14. So, 19 years.” Louis admitted,
Ever since my dad could no longer dictate the terms of my diet. Louis decided to lock that thought far far away in his mind palace.
Lestat low whistled, “So, you’re 33 then?”
“Yes sir. Madeleine mentioned you’re turning 50.” Louis played, batting his eyes innocently. “Any certain plans on how to celebrate?”
Lestat jaw dropped in surprise and the man looked so offended Louis thought he might start yelling. Lestat’s mouth opened and closed a few times, failing to form sentences.
Louis failed to hold back his laughter.
“Louis you’re awful,” Lestat whined,
Louis popped a grape in his mouth between laughs.
“I’m turning 35 years old in November,” Lestat informed, throwing his hair over his shoulder to regain some of his pride. “But I don’t look a day over 20, thank you very much.”
“Sorry, I seem to have forgotten my manners. Usually, I’m against elder abuse but it’s just somethin’ about you…” Louis continued, mimicking a thinking posture.
Lestat hit Louis arm. “I expect a very nice birthday gift from you to make up for that cruel jape.”
“You’re very presumptuous. I might have laundry to do that day.” Louis said, like they didn’t have maids for that.
“Leave the clothes at home, I’d actually prefer it if you come naked.” Lestat countered.
Louis didn’t know what to reply to that. His mouth felt dry, and his face warm.
You’re here on a mission Louis. Focus. Get back on track.
“So, how long have you and Claudia been seeing each other?” Louis asked,
“Oh no, nononon. No. Nope. Never. No” Lestat said, looking absolutely appalled. “Don’t you dare imply such a thing or I’ll throw up on you.”
“You’re not here as her date?” Louis pried,
“No. stop. She’s my niece. I’m serious I will throw up.” Lestat continued, and by the looks of it he wasn’t lying.
“The famous Claudia De Lioncourt.” Lestat said, pointing at himself. “Lestat De Lioncourt.”
Louis felt dumb for not making that connection before.
How did Madeleine not know that?
“Now I feel embarrassed for not realizing that.” Louis said, with a smile. “But you saved my evening.”
“Me being her uncle saves you?” Lestat asked, looking down at his plate angrily poking the cheese with the toothpick.
Louis snorted, “Don’t play coy with me.”
Lestat looked up at him in a way that made it hard for Louis to concentrate.
“You know what I meant. You and Claudia not being a thing.” Louis explained, making some hand gestures.
Lestat remained silent, and Louis felt awkward.
“Do you wanna know a secret Lestat?” Louis said, leaning closer to the other man. “You have to promise not to tell.”
Lestat’s hand crossed his heart “I promise.”
“Madeleine is not really my date. She brought me here with the mission to make a certain someone jealous.” Louis confided,
Lestat let out a loud laugh, “They really are perfect for each other those two.”
What? Louis does not get it but nodded along like he did. What do I reply to that?
”You’re alright Lestat.” He settled on.
Louis spotted Madeleine still at the bar, looking upset talking heatedly with Claudia.
Do I need to save her?
“So… Are you really single then?” Lestat asked, tucking blonde hair behind his ear. “Or do I have to kill someone?”
Louis shrugged and gave his trademark charming Du Lac smile.
“Right now, yes I’m single, but the end of this night who knows?”
Louis gave the man a wink as he made his way towards Madeleine by the bar.
Not that I have a chance with Madeleine. But he doesn’t know that, let him think I’m about to steal her away.
Madeleine and Claudia were in a heated discussion and did not pay Louis any mind. Louis brushed Madeleines arm softly to check if she was okay. Her hand pressed against his again, reassuring.
So, he let them be and ordered a glass of Pepsi with extra ice.
I really miss alcohol. Sobriety is a bittersweet mistress.
Lestat made his way over to the bar with a confident strut, his hand caressed Louis waist as he maneuvered. Lestat landed next to Louis and leaned on the bar table.
The French must be a physically affectionate folk.
“I’ll have whatever he’s having, thank you.” Lestat said to the bartender.
Then he gave a challenging look to Louis.” Don’t think you’ll get away from me that easily.”
”You’re gonna regret that.” Louis warned with a friendly look.
“You don’t think I can handle it?” Lestat slowly moved his gaze up and down Louis.
A thick tension could be felt in the air that was not there before.
Louis felt a chill up his spine. “Now you’re confusin’ me, sir.”
“I came to conquer my destiny and love of my life.” Lestat said bluntly, looking right at him. “Does that clear things up?”
Was Madeline the love of his life?
Louis didn’t know how to process what Lestat was saying.
So, he chose not to.
“Do you think I’m doing a good job so far, Louis?” Lestat asked,
“Based on my previous blunder about you and Claudia, I haven’t done much thinkin’ it seems.” Louis offered up in apology.
“I forgive you.” Lestat accepted, then he paused. “But you’ll never hear the end of it.”
Louis giggled.
Embarrassment filled his body again. What was that?!? Why did I-
Lestat seemed extremely satisfied by the reaction Louis had to him.
“You’re unbelievably beautiful Louis, did you know that?” Lestat said shamelessly.
Louis rolled his eyes. “I’m not competition to you.”
Lestat was tongue tied looking at Louis, “Now you’re playing it unfair, Louis.”
“All is fair in love and war.” Louis teased,
The Bartender interrupted them by setting two glasses of iced Pepsi on the bar table; Louis took a large chug. He let out a sigh of pure satisfaction; it hit just right.
Lestat watched him closely, swirling the glass and smelling it like it was a fine wine before taking a small sip, “Rum and Cola?”
Louis laughed, amused by the man’s antics. “You absolute heathen. It’s Pepsi. No rum.”
“You don’t drink?” Lestat asked, genuinely curious.
“You seem like a Champaign guy.” Louis replied, dodging the question.
“Oh really?” Lestat asked, letting him off the hook. “You are wrong. But go on.”
“It’s just, you seem like a ‘only the best of the best’ type of guy” Louis said, raising an eyebrow. “Am I wrong?”
“Not at all. I mean,” Lestat waved his At Louis, “Case and point. But whiskey is my drink of choice.”
“Ah, a second-best type of guy, then, I see it now.” Louis teased,” I was wrong ’bout you.”
Lestat played offended, and made a show of handing his glass of Pepsi back to the bartender “This is what you call the best of the best?”
Lestat’s tone was judgmental and disapproving, but it only made Louis laugh.
Louis swore he could see sparkles in Lestat eyes every time he laughed.
“Oh yea. Pepsi max perfectly cooled. Nothing hits better. But if I’m feeling particularly feisty it’s Marlboro red.” Louis said, shaking his shoulders in jest.
“Now we’re talking.” Lestat said, reaching for his pocket and showing his own packet of Marlboro red. “So, you -“
Lestat didn’t have time to finish; before Madeleine intervened, grabbing Louis arm. “Come on we’re going home. Now.”
Madeleine was pleading to him with her eyes, there was no way Louis could deny her.
Louis didn’t have time for goodbyes as he was being dragged through the crowd and into to the elevator.
Man, she’s really quick and strong.
“You alright Madeleine?” Louis asked,
Madeleine perfect mask of indifference was broken the second the elevator doors closed and she started crying.
Louis didn’t know what to do so he just patted her back, and muttered comforting words.
Madeleine muttered apologies and cried out in the taxi. She was a lot drunker than she had appeared to be at the party, Louis realized.
“I know it’s not really any of my business Madeleine but… you really don’t have to be sad.” Louis said, “Lestat told me Claudia and him are nothin’ just- He seemed over the moon about you; hell he told me you’re the love of his life. So you two will be back together in no time.”
Madeleine sniffed and continued to cry.
“Yes, I just. I just wanted her to know how it felt.” Madeleine said,
What?
Louis was dumbfounded, and he must have looked the part too.
“With every boyfriend I had before it was just so easy to not care, to feel jealousy or heartbreak. But now I realized maybe it was just easy before because I…I wasn’t in love.”
“Hey, it’s gonna be fine.” Louis said, rubbing her back. Unsure what to say of the emotional bomb dropped.
“You will be together in no time, you’ll see.” Louis repeated. “He really likes you.”
“Louis. It’s so painfully obvious that it’s not me he wants.” Madeleine said, “But thanks for trying to comfort me.”
It wouldn’t be right to leave her alone like this, so Louis took her back to the Du Lac townhouse.
Grace woke up from the couch, clearly having waited up for Louis, but pretended not to have.
Paul is back home at church, mom is away, and Grace hates sleeping alone. Guilt filled his body.
“You’re back early, did you have fun?” Grace asked, rubbing her sleepy eyes, finally she saw Madeleine. “Oh, honey are you alright? What happened?”
Louis let Grace take command of the situation, helping Madeleine clean up and get to bed. Drunk emotional women were not his expertise, so he was happy to take the sideline.
Louis put himself in charge of reheating food, so he dutifully put it in the oven and set a timer.
Madeleines phone was buzzing like crazy on the kitchen table; getting texts and calls. Out of respect he turned the phone face down on the table.
Bored he decided to look at his own phone, he turned on notifications again and regretted it instantly.
What the hell.
Madeleine hadn’t been kidding when she said her followers would go crazy for him. He had a bunch of new followers, and a ton of likes, he quickly changed his settings to private.
He peaked a little on the new followers' notifications, Louis tried not freaking out but couldn’t.
He was following back those he knew like Estelle, Santiago, Armand and Lestat-
Lestat’s account was private with less than a hundred followers, the fact surprised Louis.
It took less than a few seconds for Lestat to accept his follow request, and Louis dove right into looking at Lestat’s pictures.
There Lestat was hanging around beautiful women, with friends, with someone Louis presumed was his mom and Claudia.
Videos of him playing piano and singing, one video of him helping Claudia recite hamlet.
He’s so talented.
He could be an actor.
Louis felt something he couldn’t identify. Was it jealousy?
Lestat was living the life Louis wished he could have, with all the talent Louis would never have.
But that didn’t feel right either.
His train of thought was interrupted by Lestat messaging him,
“Hey Louis!
Hate to be bothering you, Claudia is worried since she didn’t hear from Madeleine. Are you two okay?”
Judging by the way Madeleines phone was going off, someone was a little bit more than worried.
“Hey Lestat!
No worries, Madeleine is just washing up. Soon she’ll be fed and tucked into bed.
Madeleine is not by her phone so you can stop calling btw.”
Louis saw Lestat starting to write a reply and waited in the chat,
“Are you with her? ”
“My sister Grace is with her, helping her. Do not to worry.
Madeleines is safe at casa Du Lac.”
Madeleines phone went quiet after that.
Thank god.
“Good.
If I knew that was the treatment you get at the Du Lacs, I’d have fought my way into the elevator with you…
I’d expect that treatment from you and not your sister if that wasn’t clear.
Grace is the girl from your photos, right? You live together?”
Louis was feeling flustered all over again.
“I’m sure the staff at the retirement home you live at is just as nice and accommodating. :)
Yes, and yes.”
Lestat replied at once.
“Looooouiiiiis :(
You’re a cruel man.
I take back my sorry from before.
I will unapologetically bother you from now on.
Are the two guys in like all of your photos your friends?”
Why is he looking at my pictures for?
Never mind that I just did that to him.
“Yes, one is.
The other is my brother.
Also, don’t type my name like that, it makes me feel like the wife from family guy.”
The timer went off, and Louis jumped a bit. He was so lost in conversation with Lestat he forgot all about the food.
He took it out of the oven and made the table, waiting for the girls to come back.
“ Claudia showed me what the family guy is and now I see our future so clearly.
Our dog will not be named Brian.
Mojo is better.”
Louis laughed a little, of course he didn’t know what family guy was before this.
Louis heard the girls making their way to the kitchen.
“You’re ridiculous. That’s never happening.
We’ll be getting a cat.
Sweet dreams, Lestat.”
Louis put down his phone and put do not disturb mode on again.
“You girls ready to eat?”
Madeleine has borrowed one of Graces bathrobes, and a towel hung around her shoulder catching the water dripping from her hair.
She looks so drained.
“I’m starvin’” Grace said, serving up a plate to herself and Madeleine.
“Eat up.” Louis said, gesturing to Madeleine. “You okay?”
“Yea, I’m.. thank you.” Madeleine said, with a sad smile.
Shortly after eating Madeleine had crashed in Paul’s old bedroom, promptly falling asleep.
Grace made them some popcorn and led Louis to the sofa.
“So how was the party?” Grace asked him, “I’m assuming the plan didn’t work out.”
“Yea no turns out he wasn’t really seeing that girl.” Louis said, “but… honestly, I don’t know what was going on with those two.”
“Typical Louis. But I still love you.” Grace muttered, “Poor Madeleine, she seems heartbroken.”
“Yea… it will be alright. I think. They truly care for each other.” Louis said,
“That’s good. Did you meet anyone interesting?” Grace asked,
“You won’t believe it; Santiago.” Louis said, full of fake enthusiasm.
Grace groaned in despair.
”He a great actor, Grace.” Louis said, throwing a popcorn at Grace who caught it in her mouth with a victorious smile.
”Boring. Tell me about the actual famous people Louis. Any handsome men?” Grace asked, with a teasing look.
“You fishing for a new man?” Louis shot right back,
“I wasn’t thinking about a man for me.” Grace said softly,
Louis smiled back at her shyly. “Yea, there was some actually.”
Grace smiled back at him, everything unsaid but understood.
“So tell me about your night,” Grace demanded.
Louis started recounting the evening to her.
Grace bit her lip and looked pained as Louis recounted some of the moments with Lestat.
Grace cringed at him, “Louis. You have me feeling sorry for a white man.”
Louis threw a pillow at her. “He’s French.”
Grace threw it back at him. “Ask that man out for dinner, Louis, right now.”
Louis felt a blush on his cheeks, “I already texted him goodnight, Grace it would be- weird. And we’re not like that. He’s into Madeleine.”
“Mmhm I’ll be remembering this for my weddin’ speech.” Grace teased,
“Come on now!” Louis pleaded,
Later on, while trying to sleep, Louis found he couldn’t.
He was thinking of Jonah, and repressed love.
Lily and their agreement.
Images of his father passed through his mind. Shame. Guilt.
Louis felt like he couldn’t breathe.
Tomorrow I’m gonna wake up and try to be a good son.
Who will try to be openly gay.
Can those two coexist?