Conscious of the servants around them, but uncaring of their thoughts on the matter, Arthur's hand moved on top of Malachi's leg halfway up his thigh.  There, his hand simply rested, providing warmth for his lover and an easy easy to reach him if need be.

"I so admire business savvy women," Arthur offered with a nod to Mara.  "I hope you see the benefits of your wisdom."

So easily, this woman took Malachi's name.  Did she know what Arthur did, he wondered.  Did she know where he was raised, how he was treated by her husband and mother in law?  Know all the hardships he endured only to be unwelcome at his own damn table in his own damn home?

"For a while, I struggled with religion, I admit.  But recently, I have... found myself saved, in more ways than one.  Father Malachi Brennan played a very big part in that."

He was not saved by the God these people knew and loved, though.  No, Arthur's god was sitting right beside him.

"And even outside of the church, Malachi has been a very dear friend to me, very reliable.  Did Mrs. Brennan tell you how he assisted me at my conference?  He was very helpful indeed.  And more than that, because of him, I get to meet all of you - and how honored I am to do so."