Title: Café
Series: Controlled Love, Part 26. Start the series here.
Fandom: A Bit of Fry & Laurie
Pairing: Tony/Control
Rating: PG
Summary: A chance meeting and two letters.
Disclaimer: No ownership claimed, just oodles of love for these characters.

Café
Tony spent the next week quietly at home. He had enough money saved to allow him some time to think about his life and where his next path would take him.

It took him most of the full week to decide what to do. Leaving England to start a new life in the States would be difficult at first. But he had lost his heart's two desires; he believed that leaving the country, leaving behind everything that would remind him, would be the quickest way to heal.

Tony had an acquaintance in America. They had worked together for British Intelligence for about six months before the man had been wounded during an undercover operation. The Service had relocated him overseas, providing him with a new name (he'd taken the name of Arthur Meddlicott, a distant relative on his mother's side) and suitable references and curriculum vitae to allow him to gain employment as a history instructor at a small private school in northern New York state.

He'd contacted Arthur, who said he'd quite enjoy having Tony spend a few days' holiday with him. Tony decided to leave in two weeks. He didn't know when—if ever—he'd ever return to England.

That Friday morning he was out on errands in preparation of his upcoming departure. He'd been to the bank to close his accounts, the landlord to pay his final month's rent, a book seller's to pick up a few volumes about America, and the travel agent to make his flight reservations. It had been a very busy morning, and he thought it would be quite pleasant to sit and relax for a while before continuing. He made his way to a nice café a block and a half away.

He was at a small table looking through one of the travel books he'd purchased. The coffee was quite good, and Tony could honestly say that he felt, if not content, then proud of himself for taking positive steps forward. Suddenly, he heard a familiar and much-loved voice.

"Tony? Is that you?"

When Tony raised his head, he was looking into Control's beautiful warm eyes. His mouth fell open in surprise, then he quickly caught himself and answered, "Yes, Control, it is me. Is that you?"

Control smiled broadly. "Yes, Tony, it is indeed me. It certainly is quite good to see you." He thought the pale rose colour rising in Tony's cheeks was absolutely enchanting.

"That's most kind of you to say so."

One or two moments of silence passed between them, neither realising how hard he was breathing. Then two hands simultaneously reached and grasped, sending sharp lovely sensations through both of them. They both began talking at once.

"Control, I've missed you so much…" "Tony, nothing has been the same since you left…"

"Won't you sit down?" "May I sit down?"

"What have you been doing with yourself?"

They laughed—a warm, deep, contented laugh—then took turns asking and answering questions. There wasn't a moment of awkwardness between them for the entire time they were together.

Tony couldn't bring himself to tell Control about his plans to move to America. He didn't want to feel any unhappiness during their talk.

At last, Control checked his watch. "Tony, I'm very sorry to say that I must be going. I have a meeting with The Minister in thirty minutes. I wish I could stay a little longer…"

"I understand, Control, think no more about it. I am very glad we ran into each other today."

"As am I, Tony. I've truly enjoyed our time together. I hope we can meet again sometime soon."

Tony knew it was likely this would be the last time he'd ever see Control; he wasn't able to talk. He merely nodded, then, unable to stop himself, pulled Control to himself in a tight embrace.

Control was surprised yet very pleased. He returned the hug, clasping Tony tight. He felt Tony lightly kiss his cheek. Just as he was about to return the kiss, Tony broke the embrace, mumbled "Goodbye, Control," and quickly left the shop.

~~~~

A few days after they had run into each other at the café, Tony received a letter in the post written in a familiar and welcome hand.

Dear Tony,

It was ever so wonderful seeing you in the café last Friday. I originally thought it was last Thursday, but then I remembered that I'd gotten a new library book that morning, so it had to have been Friday.

I've missed your coffee and conversations since that unfortunate business about your firing. I was glad to hear you don't hold any difficult feelings against me and that you understand it was the result of some shrewd but rather hard-line political thinking by our masters in Whitehall. Well, my masters in Whitehall, at any rate. If I had my way, I'd have you labouring under me in some way or another whenever I could manage it.

I was wondering how you might feel about meeting again some time soon. We could have a coffee or perhaps even some food. Since Mrs. Control has been gone I've been eating alone quite a lot, so some company would be most appreciated.

What would you say to this coming Saturday? Let me know if you are interested and where you might like to meet. I rather hope you say yes, as I do look forward to our next conversation.

Your former boss and still friend,
Control

Tony felt the tears of joy in his eyes as he read Control's wonderful letter. How could he ever think about leaving this wonderful man forever? Even if he could never have him as his own, Tony realised that he was happier in a tiny corner of Control's life than out of it completely. And now here Control was telling him that he was lonely and wanted company—Tony's company—and Tony was thrilled.

He immediately sat down at his desk and wrote his response.

Dear Control,

I was pleased to receive your letter and very kind invitation for a coffee or perhaps even some food. I didn't have the unpleasant experience of a Mrs. Tony leaving, but I understand how it is to eat alone quite a lot and want some company to make a meal somewhat more friendly.

You were most kind to say you have missed my coffee and conversations. I will say that I feel just the same. That is, I miss bringing you coffee and your conversations. (I don't want you to think I miss bringing myself coffee or talking to myself!)

I do understand that our masters in Whitehall (well, your masters now) were responsible for my being let go from you-know-where. But of course, with glasnost and other related phenomena, I can't fault them for their decision. I most certainly appreciate your kind words; if I had my way, I'd be very happy to be labouring under you any way possible.

This coming Saturday sounds just right. I hope you don't find this at all forward, but I'd like to invite you to my flat for dinner. Please come at seven o'clock.

Your former Subsection Chief and always friend,
Tony