Phaseus, Carlos & the Young Master

The sun is shining bright as always. The big fat pigeon was doing its usual routine right outside the window. Cooing.
The voice of the butler was echoing from down the kitchen as is his ritual to sing opera-inspired melodies, every single day. The Lord of the house doesn’t seem to mind it at all. In fact according to him, it made the atmosphere homier.

Alexander just gaily comes down the stairs that led to the kitchen. Greeted the oh so familiar face that brought him breakfast every single day and who’s been waiting on him hand and foot for the past Sixteen years.

A: Good morning, my dear old phaseus! How was your sleep? Not having those nightmares anymore I hope!

Like the affectionate kid that he was, hugs around the house help’s waist barely touching his arms together around Phaseus as his hug was hurdled by Phaseus’ round belly. That hug was to greet phaseus good morning. He has been the young master’s guardian and friend ever since young Alexander was born. He has grown fond of the boy and so has the young master in return. He is loyal and loves the boy as if he was his own son.

Lady Belford died giving birth to their only heir, the young master Alexander. And it has been sixteen years since. Now Phaseus is a generally round-bellied fellow and he is the type who sort of offers the comic relief whenever things get too serious around the Belford Manor.

P: Young master, what are you doing up so early? Perhaps awaiting the arrival of a beautiful princess?
A: As much as that would be a welcome wishful thinking, phaseus—it was not that at all. It was because I heard a pigeon doing its business right outside my window around 5 o’clock earlier. It woke me up and I couldn’t go back to sleep anymore. (Yawns)
P: Don’t worry young master; I’ll have Carlos get rid of the bird—(Snaps his fingers twice) this instance! (Would have headed to ring the bell to summon another one of the house helps to take care of the pigeon.)
A: (Gave out a childish chuckle.)You know what, that sounds exactly like what my father would ask you to do, phaseus. But it’s okay. I kind ‘a like to think that that bird is my pet.
P: Well, young Alex if ever you get tired of your pet just let me know. I’ll gladly find use of it. Perhaps it will become your meal in the next few days. (The young master smirks at Phaseus’ remark)
A: That would be an interesting menu, I must say, Phaseus! (Quipped the young master, pats the faithful Phaseus on the back)I’ll be looking forward to that dish. But for now, I don’t think that will be happening anytime soon.
(The plump butler/nanny smirks)

Alexander just props up on top of the stool by the counter top. Phaseus went on to prepare a bowl for his cereal.
A: Phaseus?
P: Yes, young master?
A: Is my father up already? Do you think he’d mind if I ate breakfast with him today?
P: Young master---your father hasn’t eaten breakfast in 16 years. The last time he did was when your mother was still alive.
A: Oh--- (Paused.)Well…if I asked him he’d probably say yes—what do you think?
P: It wouldn’t hurt to try.
A: phaseus?
P: Yes, young master?
A: where is my father?
P: In his bedroom, sir. You do know where that is right?

Phaseus just blurted out a tease. At this the young master made a face at him.

A: I wish he’ll say yes. Wish me luck! (Jumps off the stool he was sitting on holding up his crossed fingers at Phaseus.)

P: Good Luck, sir!

One knock was all there was. His father’s voice just echoed from inside ordering the one who was knocking to come in.

A: (Reluctantly pushes the door open a crack, peeps in.) Father---
L: Alexander? Is that you son? What are you doing up so early? It is Saturday after all. Let yourself in.

His father was on his big couch, reading the morning papers. His Pipe on the ashtray by the coffee table was giving out that all familiar smell of tobacco. His son just walked towards him inching his way. When he got a few feet from where his father was seated, Alexander decided to speak up.

A; Father, I was just wondering--would you mind eating breakfast with me?
L: (Looks up from the top part of the newspaper he was reading, over his glasses.) Is there anything you needed to discuss with me, son?
A: No, sir. I just thought I’d---
L: Speak up, son! (Interrupted him.) Now what did I tell you about speaking up? The way a person speaks shows his character--- it displays confidence! Now what was it that you were saying to me Alexander?
A: (Swallows. Clears his throat.) I just thought we’d have breakfast together, father.
L: (Looks at his watch.)Well son, it’s running late for me. We should reschedule this some other day and at a much earlier time. Every second is important, son. When it’s your turn to run this house you’ll understand what I am telling you. Now run along. I need to be in New York in half an hour.
A: Yes, sir. (Looks down. Turns to leave.)