Disclaimer: I don't own nor make any money from Fullmetal Alchemist or Sabrina.
This is my break from writing the last chapter of "You Belong to Me" which, if you're waiting for it, is taking forever to write. I've never had a chapter fight me this hard before. But the boys are not talking to me AT ALL. So, I apologize for the wait, but I can't help it.
Russell's Dilemma
Russell looked up as he heard the sound of a raised voice further down the hall. Further down he could see Jean backing out of Marcoh's office, hand to the back of his head, shoulder's stooped in submission, and in place of the usual unlit cigarette there was a toothpick. Russell paused to watch the end of whatever this was, curious to know more. The great big oaf was Edward's replacement and the adjustment period had been somewhat...bumpy. It seemed that the rest of the staff were being especially mean in singling out Jean and giving him a hard time—granted, it was a bit of a right of passage to endure this hazing. But still, for once, (really, he should be truthful; this was not the first time) he didn't want to participate.
From this distance he couldn't make out what Marcoh was saying but with a final loud bark the door was pulled closed, leaving Jean standing outside in a daze. Smiling a bit at the cuteness, Russell tucked the papers under his arm and walked forward to offer himself up as a friendly ear in case Jean wanted to vent. Jean turned and noticed his presence, blushed slightly and back went the hand to rub at his neck.
"Allô, Russell; saw that did you?"
Russell smiled in sympathy. "Yeah. What's he after this time? Didn't comb your hair the right way? Or perhaps you forgot to tie your shoes according to policy?"
Jean smirked, "Yeah, I guess."
"You know, you shouldn't take all this as what it's like to work here. They just like to give the newbies a hard time—kinda like breaking you in, you know?"
"Oh, I know," agreed Jean, lopsided smile sliding into place. Russell blinked once, then twice, processing the effect that smile was working on him and then immediately pushing it aside.
"I bet you do," replied Russell, laughing as one would when they are in denial. "Listen, don't take it so hard, okay?"
"I won't," said Jean, biting down on the toothpick, tilting it towards the ceiling. "Thanks."
Jean gave a jerky wave and turned, walking away. Russell stared after him in puzzlement. This would be the first time he was ever attracted to someone older then him. Though he wasn't sure of Jean's exact age, he knew it had to be at or near thirty at least. And the surprising thing to him was that he was okay with that. There was very little that he could think of that was wrong with Jean. He was fit (his arms alone needed to be licked generously). And tall; my God, he was tall. He always wore those slim pants that cupped his ass and his package so enticingly. Though Russell had noted this shortly after he started here, he hadn't been interested. Edward had just left three days ago and he missed him terribly.
Russell shook his head at his thoughts, readjusted the papers under his arm and continued down the hall after Jean. He knew that he was only looking to Jean because he was missing Edward. But he also knew that he shouldn't pine after him still. But he couldn't help himself. Edward was just so cute and the long hair suited him completely. In just two more days the tournament would start. He wished he had planned better and saved up enough money to go with Edward to America. He could kick himself for being so stupid.
"Next time..."
--End--
