Author's note: Just before I start the chapter I would like to address a question that has popped up in many of reviews; why isn't Alfred being arrested? To justify myself here I would like to confirm that although it should have happened, it didn't in this universe. Arthur was crippled by anxiety and his brother Ian didn't want to put him through a court hearing simply because there was no evidence. Lastly, it doesn't fit with the plot I have spent months editing and rewriting. Besides, stories would end a lot faster if the criminal was always caught. I am not justifying murder or rape or anything of the sort in real life BUT- the plot must move forward~!
USUK: Failure Chapter 7
Arthur held his breath, ignoring the complaints of his poor, overworked lungs before slipping through the doorframe to attend his first period class. He quickly tensed up at the smell of disinfectants that wafted through the air, his mind bloated with memories of the several disastrous experiments he was forced to complete for his mediocre science average of 85%. However, Arthur couldn't help a smile at Alfred's friendly wave, accepting his invitation to sit next him after a moment of hesitation. The two blondes, one tall, one short took their usual seats by the window, successful in dodging the looks of their fellow classmates. For once, Alfred appreciated that Mrs. Flowers was always late. It gave him time to make things less awkward between him and his victim or best friend. They made eye contact after some nervous shuffling.
" Good morning, Alfie.."
" H-Hey, Artie.."
He stared in shock for a moment, his babyblues freezing at the mental comparison between the current Arthur and the anxiety-crippled, sickly pale brit from just a few days ago. Alfred swallowed thickly, willing himself to keep his composure as he accepted that all of this was his fault. It was because of his stupid, illogical choices that an innocent soul such as Arthur had to suffer.
" Lookin' good. Man, it's like I haven't seen you in forever. How're ya feeling? Did the book help? Have you been getting enough sleep? Do you still need the Valium?"
Arthur nodded, giggling at the American's rather motherly concern. He felt his heart swell at the sincere, determined, sorry blue marbles that faced him.
" Much better, yes, yes and no. The book really helped, I had such a good sleep that night Ian had to drag me out of bed at three in the afternoon."
" That's great...I'm glad to have you back."
Alfred reached for his classmate's hand, jerking away immediately once he realized how unworthy he was. Like Matt said, Arthur was too good to him, he didn't deserve any of this. He didn't deserve to touch him or speak to him or even mention his name. Hell, if it hadn't been for the lack of proof, he would've ended up in jail by now. Arthur's temporary confidence faded, his skinny frame imploding as the awkward silence reminded him of the several bullies he would have to face later today. His muscles reabsorbed the tension as a result of fear; fear that he would be left black and blue and negotiating with whatever supernatural powers he believed in to die a young death. Alfred arched his eyebrows at the sudden vanish of Arthur's smile.
" Something wrong, Artie?"
Arthur's gaze fell to the worn denim at his lap, his eyelashes fluttering in mid-thought.
" I-I'm worried, Alfred...The mean kids in gym are going to beat me up and I'm not sure if I can trust you to protect me anymore. You did hurt me...a lot."
The American winced at the harsh truth of those words, taking Arthur's reply as a dagger to his heart. He clenched an unconfident fist under the desk, hoping to look convincing as he turned the Brit to face him.
" I uh...I know I did, Artie. I'm sorry. I know I can't really make things better but I refuse to let you go through any more pain. I promise I won't hurt you ever again..."
Arthur held out a nervous pinky, nodding stiffly as the glint of hope in his eyes put the sun to shame. Alfred was his only friend after all, he had a crush on him and he had never been closer to anyone else. Still, he had trouble trusting him after all he was put through. He liked him too much to know what was best for him.
" P-Promise?"
The American nodded swiftly, latching his pinky around Arthur's and making a point not to break his fingers.
" Yeah, I promise."
Alfred faced his attention forward, reaching into his pencil case as the slender, blonde-haired figure slinked into the classroom. Mrs. Flowers set the heated thermos at her desk, silencing the noisy students and placing the flimsy papers onto an overhead projector before savoring her precious, precious caffeine. The blue ink conformed to Al's messy handwriting and after a moment of confusion, Arthur caught onto the fact that the lesson had started and joined his friend in copying down the intricate diagrams. His heart fluttered with an incessant worry as he doubted Alfred's ability to keep the promise and once the bell rang, he drifted into the hall autonomously with a tired wave. Chances were, their promise would disintegrate and be quickly forgotten as days went by.
Time crawled, lurched, dragged and stretched itself from days into weeks and soon into an entire month. However, to the Brit's surprise, Alfred stuck true to his word with ease. It was almost a little overbearing. Despite their separate classes, the American did everything in his power to spend time with him, mindful of the newly drawn boundaries and even asking permission to hold his hand if he ever had the urge. Things weren't supposed to go so far so fast and though hasty decisions and running from the bullies only made Arthur's head spin, somehow, his heart was at peace again. Pleased by the friendliness of his classmates, the skinny blonde gathered his binders and dodged the corridor for the stairwell. It was the quickest and easiest route to their special hideout, he looked forward to enjoying his lunch but more so, seeing Alfred. He returned the Al's wave moments later, taking his usual spot under the tree's shade and planting Mr. Bunny down onto his lap. The handsome American plopped down in the tall grass and daringly scooted a little closer.
" Hey, buddy. How was art?"
" Good, actually. I made friends with someone today."
Alfred raised a curious eyebrow.
" Oh? Who?"
" His name is Feliciano! His drawings are absolutely amazing, isn't that right, Mr. Bunny?"
The brief silence between the rabbit and his owner went unnoticed and for the first time since meeting him, Alfred heard an imaginary "yes" from Arthur's furry companion. The honey blonde hummed in agreement, the Italian's name ringing a bell.
"That's cool. What're ya doing in Art right now anyway?"
Arthur unpackaged his white bread sandwich, carefully peeling off the plastic as he inspected the layers for any meat. He took a quick bite before fishing an Ivy green binder out from his knapsack.
"We started brainstorming for our new assignment today..."
Alfred nodded, readjusting his glasses to read the outline thoroughly. His elective for the year was tech, the only artistic experience he had ever had was drawing disproportionate anime babes from the internet so it was nice to befriend someone who was even the slightest bit creative. The American glanced up from the hole-punched paper at Arthur's sudden silence. He didn't miss the rotating gears of worry behind the skinny blonde's emerald greens.
" So...uh, what are you planning on doing?"
"I'm not too sure, actually. It's supposed to be a family portrait but...Realism isn't my strong suit."
Alfred chewed his lip, tucking the blue sheet away into its plastic sleeve and reaching for his overpriced coke and burger.
" I also have more than one father so-"
" Well it never said they have to be people right? How about draw the most influential figures in your life as objects? Treat it like a...What's it called? Oh yeah, a still life..."
Arthur fluttered his eyelashes at the honey blonde's suggestion, a sudden inspiration sparking in his chest. He quickly dropped the one-inch binder onto his lap, abandoning his sandwich for a sheet of paper and a fountain pen. Alfred sank his teeth into the relatively smooth sesame bun, washing down every few bites of processed meat and cheddar with his carbonated beverage. He couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment at his success, sure, things weren't quite back to they way they used to be but he had come pretty far.
" So whatcha have in mind?"
The Brit gasped, quickly flipping the drawing onto its blank side when Alfred tried to peek over his shoulder. He gripped a loose fist, throwing a playful punch in the American's direction.
" No looking! I'll show you next week when it's due!"
Alfred chuckled, wrestling Arthur into the grass as he attacked the poor boy's armpits.
" C'mon! Lemme see!"
" Over my dead body!"
A mix of giggles, gasps for air and unintelligible arguing filled the school yard and after moments of tickling, the boys returned to their abandoned lunches. Arthur panted heavily, a layer of sweat adding a new sheen to his face as he let the breeze tousle his hair. Alfred nibbled on the plastic straw, a loud slurp interrupting their silence when he salvaged the last of his coke. A courageous leaf dangled from its branch a few feet above them, bidding farewell to its family before finding a new home in the spot next to him. He too enjoyed Autumn's design for like a well-furnished apartment, the shades of gold and red complimented each other unlike his mom's less than perfect decorating. The cross country runners in the distance reminded him of the long-awaited event that was supposed to unravel in third period and with a huge, huge grin, he glanced over at Arthur.
" Oh just so you know, we have the beep test today in Gym."
The English boy blinked, bemoaning how sore he was destined to be after picking his jaw up off the ground. Alfred couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him, the confidence plastered to his lips. He was definitely going to beat Ludwig this year, that pasty German didn't stand a chance!
" Ugh! No! The beep test is the absolute worst!"
" Aww, it's not that bad! Just try your best! C'mon, even Mr. Bunny will be cheering for you isn't that right?"
Alfred grabbed a hold of Mr. Bunny, squishing the soft fur in his fingers before forcing the flaccid animal to nod. He placed his tongue at the roof of his mouth, doing his very best at voice acting.
" Yes I will Arthur, so run as fast as you can!"
The American's act of playfulness recruited the happiness to Arthur's lips, causing an instant smile to return to his handsome, lightly-freckled face. He had yet to prove himself but it was nice to see that Arthur trusted him again.
" A-Alright! I promise I'll try my best!"
"Yeah, that's the spirit! And I promise not to let Ludwig beat me this time!"
The obnoxious ring of the school bell forced them to their feet, sending the two into momentary panic as they gathered their belongings, disposed of any garbage and hurried inside to make it to their third period class. Mr. Dafoe made his students sing the national anthem while lifting weights, running laps or doing pushups if they were even a second late. The American bumped shoulders with the dauntingly tall, muscular German on their way into the changeroom and Arthur grew increasingly doubtful that Alfred could even come close to beating Ludwig. He quickly shrugged off the thought though because quite honestly, he was lucky if he didn't end up passing out from overexertion. Gym was not his favourite subject or his strong suite...he hated it. Arthur couldn't help his wandering eyes as he admired Alfred's handsome exterior in a manner he hoped would be discreet. Alfred pulled on his uniform, oblivious to the Brit's mild perversions as he glanced up at him. Arthur only retaliated with a nervous smile.
" Ya ready?"
" Y-Yes.."
He gave an absent nod, slightly peeved at being sandwiched between douchebags as he worked his way into the silky, black basketball shorts. Most of his below-waist garments ( including his jeans) , were secured by safety pins as he was clearly too thin to fit in anything out of the children's section. He let the white strips of fabric hang loose from under his shirt, exiting the crowded, sweaty, cologne-engulfed change room behind Alfred. Arthur marched up to the black line nervously as the Gym teacher split them into groups, swallowing thickly at the crack of the speakers. At least Alfred was there to cheer him on, right?
" Welcome to the beep test, this assessment will challenge your cardiovascular endurance. Your objective is to run to the other side in time for the second beep to sound. Ready in 3...2...1 go!"
The entire spiel of instructions, including the Australian accent flew right over Arthur's head as he focused on pacing himself through the strenuous activity. It wasn't long before the speakers announced level 5 and the beyond exhausted English boy was halted to a stop.
" I-I'm...I'm done.."
Arthur swayed tiredly, hobbling over to the bench where he tended to his aching joints, soaked up his sweat with a conveniently placed towel and extinguished the inferno in his lungs by downing his chilled, reusable water bottle. Alfred squeezed his shoulder with an infectious grin before revealing the results from the school supplied clipboard.
" you improved from last month, Artie! Great job! You jumped up another level!"
The Brit sighed shallowly in relief, his replies breathy as he rested a head on the honey blonde's shoulder.
" Th-Thank you..."
Mr. Dafoe blew his whistle, restarting the audio before waving the more athletic individuals of the class over to the black line. The American flashed a pearly white grin at the breathless audience, challenging Ludwig to his right with a glint of cockiness in his eyes.
Beep, beep, beep. Arthur couldn't believe his eyes, gluing his behind to the wooden bench as the two competed against each other neck to neck. He would've lost count of the levels if it hadn't been for the CD announcing them. Ludwig missed the line for the second time in a row, sending Alfred into the commercial perfect jump shot as the last beep rang through the crowded gymnasium. It was only a few seconds after his celebrated victory that the tiredness exposed itself and left his face flushed and dripping in sweat, further causing his speed to decline from a NASA-built spacecraft to that of a disabled turtle. Alfred lazily sauntered through the horses of students, giving high fives rather generously until he reached the still-weary Brit. The class ignored their teacher's blabbering, drifting into the back of the change room like ghosts that were sick of haunting houses. Despite being breathless however, Alfred spent minutes collecting the 20 dollars from Ludwig, his lips forever warped by his silly grin. Arthur reached for his pair of jeans, listening closely to the nearby champion brag all about his day's success. He may not have realized it yet, but Arthur was mildly disappointed that Alfred's beautifully-sculpted chest was no longer up for display. With the Brit occupied with staring and Alfred occupied with bragging, the tanned-skin pricks behind them plotted something beyond evil. Alfred slouched up against an unused locker, continuing to rub it into Ludwig's face that he won.
"Oh, did I tell you about how much I ben-"
Alfred's endless self-praise was interrupted by a loud squeak, the whites of his eyes expanding faster than the population when he traced back the source. A chorus of cringe-worthy, obnoxious cackles erupted behind the red-faced, teary Brit. Thoroughly embarrassed, Arthur pulled up his shorts and did his best to restore his pride while Alfred, stomped over to the ring leader of their douchebag circus with clenched fists and untamed anger.
"What's wrong, faggot? Angry we picked on your boyfriend?"
The angry frown vanished from Alfred's face and instead of punching him ( like he really truly deserved), he simply let his inner six year old take over and pulled down the redhead's shorts just as quickly as he did to Arthur. The once loyal ring of assholes all turned on their leader at his desperate yelp and with the both of them grinning, Alfred and Arthur evacuated into the hall. Arthur's cheeks were still burning by the time they reached the empty, narrow stairwell. He fidgeted nervously, abusing his dry, flaking lips as the fabric strip slid down the pathetic width of his shoulder. A jittery surprised nestled in the Brit's stomach, momentarily muting him with an artificial nausea as it clawed at the soft walls of tissue.
"Th-Thanks for sticking up for me back there, you really don't have to."
Alfred nodded with a stretch, daringly reaching out to ruffle Arthur's silky, golden, well-nourished locks of hair in what seemed like forever. In actuality, it had only been a month and three days but Alfred sure had missed this. He found himself red-faced and withdrew as soon as the blush jumped from the Brit's kewpie face onto his.
" Well I did, and that's all that matters."
" Th-Those boys, aren't they your friends? Why are you risking your friendship with them to protect me, Alfie?"
Matthew's words regarding relationships and long term fulfilment rang through the American's ears and with an impossibly large grin, Alfred believed what he said when he said it.
" Well they're not my friends if they're making fun of you. I don't care about being popular anymore, who cares about being the king of the school?"
Arthur's blush only intensified and instead of shrinking into himself this time, he just smiled like the awkward, star-struck teenager he really was. He gave a playful wink before turning on his heel to get to Math.
" Well, thank you. I wouldn't call you a king so much as I'd call you a hero though. Goodbye, Superman."
Alfred watched as the freckled blonde skipped off to his next class, his penis raving as he stared after Arthur's perfectly rounded behind. His brain however ( though miniscule), quickly cut off the blood supply to the sexual organ when morals and basic logic melted the overwhelming lust. He couldn't, he just couldn't. He didn't deserve to be called Superman and knew well in his heart that if Matt caught him staring his adorable babyblues would be gouged out with a spoon and served as ice cream. Unable to get his mind off Arthur, the American stomped off school property and onto the bridge, deciding he was much too aroused to sit through another reading of "Romeo and Juliet". He eventually got his hands on a cigarette after mentioning the Beatles to some low-key hipster, letting the nicotine in and out of his bloodstream through shallow puffs of air. He wasn't attracted to a dude, he just wasn't!
The noisy school bell ripped Alfred's chain of thought in half, announcing the end of fourth period and causing an influx of students to crowd the front doors, some bussing, some walking but all anxious to get home. Alfred followed through with his typical schedule, walking Arthur home, eating dinner, searching the internet for dirty videos, taking the coldest shower ever, more masturbating and finally, hitting the sack...Homework could always be dealt with in the morning. This night however, was different because despite his constant rubbing and groans of frustration, Alfred's mind was soaked in a sweet, viscous lust for his limey best friend. The American sighed, bringing a fist down on the springy mattress before attempting to suffocate in the cool, almost damn side of the pillow.
" Damnit, Al! You just can't! It's so wrong!"
He gasped for air moments later, rolling onto his side as he confirmed his temporary desires of suicide were indeed false. His aggravated babyblues found their way to the crimson glare of his alarm clock, quickly processing the deadly hours of the morning. 5:36 AM. Alfred huffed in defeat, finally feeling lethargic from his excessive masturbation. He was supposed to feel lucky for the meager two hours he had been given but instead, the sophomore just felt down right angry with himself. His multitude of wet dreams and twisted sexual desires left him zombie-like without his Adderall, slower than a snail in the busy school halls and with a terrible case of wanker's cramp. For the next week, the vicious cycle continued and it wasn't long before he was walking around looking like he had been kicked in the nuts by the incredible hulk. This behavior was supposed to make things awkward but instead, the limey just continued smiling, asking his imaginary friend questions and strutting around in his mad adorable outfits. It was all too much but soon after the lust came feelings of love. Alfred didn't quite understand it at first, maybe it was from having too much caffeine or not eating for several hours but the rapid heartbeat and butterflies he experienced around Arthur utterly confused him. He found himself making excuses to call the kid at ridiculous hours.
"Nngh...fuck..."
Alfred panted breathlessly against the moist change room tiles, resisting the urge to touch himself as the hot water only caused his libido to rise and swell. For Pete's sake, he was the star of the football team, the king of the school and a charismatic, friendly individual with countless opportunities awaiting him and yet, none of that seemed to matter because he was trying so hard to get his balls to shrivel up. He gave up on scrubbing his skin after moments of frustration, fondling the swollen organ when he realised that simply willpower wasn't going to make his length deflate. He felt pathetic.
" I want him so bad..."
" Oh? Then why didn't you say something? You're so naughty for playing with yourself, Alfie~"
The bar of soap slipped from Alfred's fingers with a gasp, his mouth watering at the smirking, naked Brit that had just pulled the curtain back. The change room was now silent, the sound of the shower head spitting water completely blocked out as he admired Arthur's delicate features. Alfred had never realised it before but Arthur had the smoothest, creamiest thighs in the world. Alfred shuddered as the Brit picked up the white, fragranced mass from the damp floor and slowly, teasingly approached him in long, graceful strides. He pressed his hands against the curves of Alfred's waist, humming sensually before dropping to his knees and taking the stiff, soapy member into his mouth. The American keened at the gentle performance of Arthur's lips, his hips twitching with desire when he pulled away momentarily. Arthur smirked knowingly.
" Mmm~ You're so long and hard like I expected you to be. I don't think I can behave myself with you looking like that~"
He gripped the slippery length with force, using his fingers to caress the sensitive hairs that grew nearby the soft tissue. Arthur only rubbed harder when a moan escaped the blonde's lips.
" Well? Do you want me?"
" Nnngh-"
" No, I don't want to hear that. Just say yes if you do, and don't forget the magic word~"
" Y-Yes, please touch me Artie..."
Alfred didn't believe he could get any harder when Arthur's silky, smooth lips returned to the tip of his length. This couldn't be real, there was absolutely no way that this was actually happening...And it wasn't. The intensely sexual dream sent Alfred springing out of his bed, racing down the hall and banging at his poor brother's door at 3 in the morning with nothing but a superman pillow in hand. Matthew kicked off the covers with a disgruntled sigh and groggily let the confused honey blonde inside. He retired to his heat spot on the mattress as his brother slipped in beside him.
" mmm...What do you want, Al?"
The tired Canadian curled up like a fist, squishing the beloved polar bear into his chest as Alfred ( so inconsiderately) flicked his nightlight on. Matthew gave an agonizing groan.
"Matt! You have to help me! I had a funny dream..."
The flustered, child-like expression on Alfred's face quickly warped Matt's lips with a smirk and like magic, the once sleepy Canadian sat up with a burst of interest. Alfred shrank into himself and occupied his teeth with chewing the corner of his pillow.
" Oh? About what? About who?~"
" D-Don't tease me, Mattie..."
" I won't if you just tell me~"
" F-Fine! It was about Arthur! We...had sex in the change room shower.."
Matthew kissed Alfred's forehead endearingly, his words dripping with sarcasm.
" Aww and your pee pee got hard? That's so cute!"
" Sh-Shut up, Matt!"
Matt pulled away, the fuzzy light casting a shadow on one side of his face. He stared at Alfred with a raised eyebrow as the lamp's brightness flickered.
" So? What's wrong with that?"
" I'm not even gay though!"
" Well clearly you are if you're dreaming about being on top of him."
" Wh-Whatever. Anyway, how do you think I should ask him out?"
Matthew's smirk vanished at the intent of Alfred's reply, his mind plunging into a realm of deep, deep thought. He tightened his grip around Kuma's soft, white fur.
" I don't know, Alfred. You've done him wrong..."
" But I've changed, I swear!"
Matthew sighed at Alfred's enthusiasm, not having it in him to shoot his plans down. He did however, feel the need to give a stern warning. It was his brother he was talking to after all.
" Whether or not you decide to pursue him is your choice, Al. Just remember that if he says yes and you haven't been able to get in his pants after a week, it doesn't mean you should abandon him. Also if he says no, you have to live with the pain of being friendzoned, got it? Don't ditch the poor kid when you're all he has..."
Alfred swallowed thickly, nodding after a moment of hesitation.
" Yeah, sure thing..."
He could do this right? He definitely wasn't going to fuck things up. Alfred gave himself three days to think up of the most romantic, captivating, memorable way to ask the handsome Brit out but eventually settled on heading over to his place and just playing it cool. It was the first time since the incident that he had to pay a visit to Arthur and his scary older brother and Alfred felt his guts knot up with nervousness as he set foot onto their porch. He rang the doorbell with caution, a lump of air traveling down his throat rather visibly. The American almost jumped out of his skin when it wasn't his beloved, friendly Arthur that answered.
" Aye? What is it, lad?"
Alfred quailed under the icy glare of the Scotsman, tugging on the hem of his shirt out of habit. Ian frowned at his lack of words.
" Here to see Arthur, I suppose?"
He nodded, muttering a jittery thank you before hurriedly slipping inside. Ian couldn't help but smirk a little at Alfred's reaction and gripped onto his shoulder to further accentuate his stern protective demeanor.
" He's in the garden, lad. Ye can go see him but don't do anything stupid or I'll throw yer ungrateful arse out, got it?"
" Y-Yes sir!"
The Scotsman chuckled at Alfred's flustered nod, watching as the honey blonde swept past him and towards the doors that led to their backyard. It was funny how he was taken so seriously but Ian stuck true to his words as he retired to the couch and flipped through the television channels.
" There you go, little flower. Now you'll grow tall and strong and beautiful once the sunshine fairies come!"
" Hey, Arti-"
Alfred froze once he set foot on the well-trimmed grass, his heart swelling at the sight that awaited him. Arthur's intentions were always good, his word choice was tender and he omitted an aura of innocence. It was all these traits that made Alfred ready to chase him. Arthur peered over his shoulder, standing from his crouching position in front of the flowerbed. Instinctively, Alfred crossed the space to join him.
" Hey, Alfred! Sorry I wasn't there to answer the door, I can't hear the doorbell from out here."
Alfred grinned, slipping past the skinny Brit to admire the bed of assorted roses. The flowers carried little passengers after having their thirst quenched and the moisture on their petals only accentuated their beauty.
" Nah, it's fine. Your brother's not that scary."
The most adorable, charming giggle escaped Arthur's lips and Alfred found his heart flip-flopping.
" Oh you haven't seen my brother when he's really angry, he'll beat the snot out of you!"
The American flexed his arms, his grin stretching when Arthur's reaction complimented his handsome, muscular exterior.
" Nope! I'm the one with the six pack! I'd crush him!"
" Yeah right!"
Their laughter served as music to the surrounding wild life, a comfortable silence putting their giggles to an end when Alfred peeled his gaze away from the roses and onto Arthur.
" So, Artie...why do you plant flowers anyway?"
The Brit fluttered his eyelashes thoughtfully, pondering the question himself as he suffered a case of nostalgia...Why did he plant flowers? What was it about them that made him feel so relieved? Arthur clasped his hands together, smiling after a short moment.
" Because they're beautiful and beauty should be shared."
He parted his lips, stealing a breath from a nearby tree as the leaves swept right past their feet.
" Some flowers can grow in the harshest conditions. They inspire me to keep going."
Alfred blinked, thoroughly impressed by Arthur's insightful response. He willed away the nervousness that nagged at his chest, daringly twining their fingers together. Arthur raised a curious eyebrow, his cheeks pinking at the thought of kissing him.
" Mmm? What is it-"
The American somehow managed to read his mind, pressing their soft, smooth lips together and granting the fleeting wish that had given them both butterflies for the past week. Arthur's gasp was cut off by a second kiss and without warning, a third. The young lovers had soon made their way across the garden and found a chain link fence to victimize with their intimacy. Arthur was pleasantly surprised at being sandwiched between Alfred and the moist, chilly metal. He finally severed their kiss after moments of wet suckling, panting against Alfred's needy lips with needier lips of his own. Breathily, he levelled their gazes and hooked a pinky into the American's denim belt loop.
" Y-You kissed me..."
" But I thought you wa-"
" I did-no, I do! We're just treading a dangerously thin line right now and I...I don't know if I can trust you..."
Alfred smashed their lips together once more, his gaze stern and determined.
" You can trust me..."
" What about when we decide to have sex? Then what?"
The American grabbed a hold of Arthur's chin, a silver string of saliva clinging from their greedy tongues as they broke away from the sloppiest kiss they had ever shared. The skinny blonde stifled a moan as he did his best not to squirm.
" It's perfectly acceptable that you don't want me like that right now and I'm willing to wait. I wont touch you until you ask okay?"
Arthur couldn't help his shy smile, his little heart fluttering despite the incessant hesitation that chewed through his ribcage. He melted into Alfred's strong frame with a sigh.
" Do you think it's safe for us to take it any further?"
Alfred chuckled, gently raking his fingers through the Brit's soft, blonde hair. He daringly took a whiff of the golden silk, surprised by the scent of tea, books and rain that was unique to Arthur. He kissed him sweetly, this time on an open mouth.
" Yeah, it'll be fine. No one hurts what is mine."
Arthur giggled, unable to resist the charming American that held him so gently. There was no doubt in their minds that while they were in love. Alfred took a step back, carefully taking Arthur's delicate hands in his before kissing them. The birds, even the crickets lurking in the grass, stopped their chirping to watch.
" Will you be my boyfriend?"
" Yes."
The simple, one word reply marked the beginning of the young lovers' relationship and it wasn't long before Arthur shooed the Alfred home in fear that Ian would spot them. The Brit thanked the sunshine fairies for their visit before briskly slipping inside. However, despite his attempts to shuffle upstairs, the Scotsman caught a glimpse of the hickey at his collarbone and quickly dragged Arthur onto the couch next to him. Arthur fidgeted nervously under Ian's cold, stern gaze. The bone-chilling atmosphere prohibited any watching of the colourful, flashing screen nearby.
" Tell me that's just a bruise, lad."
The flustered Brit shrank into himself, his skinny frame imploding.
" I-It isn't. I'm sorry...Alfred and I are, well...together now."
Ian folded his arms, his frown only deepening at the miserable truth.
" Well call it off. I don't like him. I don't forgive him for what he did to ye."
" No! I love him! Please...He's been really good to me for the past month and he promised that he wouldn't touch me unless I asked him too. He's changed, Ian!"
Ian's frown didn't budge.
" I'm not convinced, lad."
Arthur sighed, flopping against the handsome leather as his chest caved in exasperation. He clasped his hands together in final attempts to persuade his older brother into letting him have a boyfriend.
" How about you give him some time? If two weeks from now you're still not impressed with his behavior then I promise I'll call it off."
The Scotsman paused for a moment, sighing too when he felt his resolve melting at the sight of Arthur's desperate tears. He didn't have it in him to disappoint his little brother so with a disgruntled noise, he nodded. Arthur's smile almost put the sun to shame.
" Really? You'll let me?"
" Aye, just make sure ye still do all yer homework. I don't want yer grades dropping over some boy, alright?"
The happy Brit straightened, nodding vigorously as the excitement caused his heart to grow wings. He was excited to have a boyfriend and go on dates...Was romance really like the movies depicted it? He had no idea but he was absolutely thrilled to find out! The anticipation danced on soles of his feet and instinctively, Arthur squirmed with joy. A comfortable silence wafted between the brothers as they watched the several advertisements through the flashing screen. They were serious and rather boring but Arthur found himself wide awake when a happy, vivid, colourful commercial shook his senses. He gawked wistfully at the rollercoasters, food, costumes and happy children as the golden radio voice said over and over again that Disneyland was where dreams came true. The Scotsman peeled an eyelid open in mild irritation at the tap of his shoulder.
" Mmm, what is it lad?"
His little brother pointed to the screen, the sheen in his eyes so hopeful that it hurt Ian to even look at it.
" Disneyland! Can we go there? Pretty please?"
Ian straightened, blinking hazily at the magical commercial before releasing another yawn.
" Disneyland? Are ye really interested?"
" Yes! I'd love to go! Blimey, it looks like so much fun!"
The ginger sighed, his blood craving nicotine once more as he made his decision. Arthur shifted closer with impatience.
" Aye, we can go."
" R-Really?!"
" Of course, under one condition though. Ye have to get on the honor role for the rest of high school."
Arthur nodded hurriedly, his emerald greens twinkling as he accepted his brother's challenge. He held out a cautious pinky before snuggling against his shoulder.
" Promise?"
Ian grinned, linking their fingers with a nod. Arthur sighed happily, determined to live up to his standards. A pinky swear was always a sign of trust.
Matthew sighed, exiting the cloud of mist from behind him as he stepped out of the shower. Alfred had been gone for a while, maybe he had been rejected or something. His fingers trailed along the moist granite counter, his feet coming to a complete stop when he met his sickly reflection. Between the school work and his morphine addiction, there was really no time for proper food or sleep and as a result, he lost a lot of weight. His ribs had never poked out like this before, his face used to be heart-shaped. What was once a plea for attention now controlled his entire life. He needed help...desperately. The Canadian shook his head, quickly dismissing his issues to get changed. There was no use in feeling bad for himself, it was all his fault anyway. If he had been a better child, he wouldn't have to do this. He slipped into a clean pair of boxers, pulling the familiar sweatshirt over his dripping, blonde hair. It smelt like his drug dealer but he didn't really mind. Matthew sauntered through the halls, flopping onto his bed despite without bothering to dry his hair. His phone buzzed moments after he melted into the pillow and out of curiosity, he grabbed the hunk of metal off his nightstand to see who it was.
[ Gilbert ]
Yo, birdy! U have to help me!
[ Message received at 6:45 PM ]
The Canadian chuckled, allowing the slim smartphone to slip from his fingers and crash against the dusty floor under his bed. Gilbert could always be dealt with later, he doubted it was anything important.
Author's notes: Once again I am so sorry for taking so long to write this. Blame life for eating up all my writing time. :l Regardless, thanks for sticking with me and giving me all this support. It is worth staying up late when I get such great reviews. I hope you enjoyed the chapter! c: Btw, I have more side stories planned out for other couples so stay tuned.
