Title: Turn Away

Theme: "Look at me"

Disclaimer: All characters are property of their respective owners, Fullmetal Alchemist belongs to Arakawa.


Right now, Riza Hawkeye thinks, this desk has been placed the wrong way.

Her neck aches from being turned in one direction for so long. But he is on the other side, and she really does not want to look at him. On second thought, she does so-very-much want to. However, she cannot find the courage to look at him and see his eyes.

What unspoken thoughts would those dark eyes of his hold?

She does not really want to know. Or rather, she chides herself, she is afraid of knowing. Then Hawkeye scolds herself for her internal soliloquy and for being so weak.

"Look at me, Riza."

Her back stiffens at the sound of his voice saying her name. It is usually "Lieutenant" or "Hawkeye". She turns her head fractionally, and sore muscles immediately explode with relief.

"Yes, sir."

It is more of an icy statement than a question. She avoids making eye contact. Again.

In a few swift footsteps, Colonel Mustang is in front for his lieutenant. He pulls her chin upwards with two fingers, so that she is forced to meet his gaze. There is no hatred or blame, only a gentle concern and something else that she cannot quite pin down.

The feel of his slightly roughened fingers remains on her skin, even after he has withdrawn his hand sheepishly.

She relaxes slightly, and then the corner of her mouth turns up. He touches her hand lightly before returning to his desk.