Chapter 8: Stray

"Gilbert! Please stop yelling, I said I'd be there in a few minutes-"

"You said that twenty-minutes ago!" The male's tone ceased to calm itself. "Just tell me what's going on, are you okay!?"

Matthew rested his head back against the leather seat, letting out a long, exasperated sigh as the rambling on the other line continued - no sign of stopping anytime soon. He cared deeply for his friend; they had known each other for years. Gilbert was one of his closest companions: kind, caring, witty - a wonderful person once you got to know him in and out, just like Matthew had. Yet, it didn't matter how many good characteristics that German possessed, the one that always managed to stick out the most - even at the worst times - was annoying. Matthew wasn't thinking about the trait in the obnoxious sense - though, Gil could be that too - but rather in just how Gilbert showed concern when it came to others.

He always wanted to know the answers right away, sparing his target little time for explanation before he would ask again, and again... He'd pester you. Continuing on for ages until you finally gave in, subsiding to his questions and being trapped in a never-ending cycle.

Matthew had tried briefly explaining his current circumstances, however it was hard not only because of his obnoxious friend but also because he was worried about telling him the truth. Gilbert didn't know about Ivan that much, moving hadn't given him much time to learn of the Russian, but that couldn't stop Alfred from rubbing off on the German. Gilbert probably disliked Ivan just as much as the American did. So, spilling the beans on his true location wasn't probably the greatest idea, especially with his friend being as concerned as he was at the moment.

"... you could be in danger and who knows about- Hey! Are you even listening to me?" Matthew groaned.

"I'm perfectly fine, you can stop worrying about me, okay? I forgot. No big deal; I'm almost there."

"Could you at least tell me where you are?"

"I'm pulling down the street right now, I can see the café." He inwardly smirked at a sudden thought. "I'm hanging up now, bye."

"No, don't you dar-!" With a quick turn of a wrist, Matthew shut off his phone, tossing it to the seat beside him as he turned down the upcoming road. He had entered back into the city several kilometres ago, it luckily hadn't been as hard to return home as it had been to find the Braginski's house. Or should he say mansion. That was something he'd have to discuss more with Katyusha later on; he still hadn't been rid of all his questions. I still can't believe they live in such a place, I never would have guessed it was theirs in a million years, he thought quizzically. I also wouldn't have guessed their parents were-... it's a tragedy. It really is. Matthew frowned, closing his eyes to take a deep breath - his grip suddenly tightening on the steering wheel.

"I guess that's one thing we have in common..." He didn't let the memory haunt him for long, quickly rejecting the idea before it could fester and bring back the unwanted pain that had taken years to dismiss. A few blinks and he regained peace, weakening his hold as he curved into a parking spot; fumbling with the keys before shutting off the engine. Matthew peeked through the window, taking in the calming sight of the familiar diner. It had been some time since his last visit - the decaying brick-work showing the buildings age. Even with its old, broken appearance it still maintained a feeling of warmth - welcoming any passerby's to come inside and rest.

Stepping out in wonder, Matthew closed the car door behind himself, fixing up his hoodie as he continued to examine the building in front of him. He could faintly recall the few occasions where he had visited in the past - birthday parties, town events, friendly invites; such wonderful days those had been...

Taking a peek towards the steps of the cafe, Matthew's lips curved up in a smile - placing his hands on his hips jokingly as a figure approached at a fast pace."I heard you had some cell phone trouble, get it fixed?"

"You little..." Gilbert shook his head irritably, but it was obvious he wasn't angry in the slightest; letting out a few laughs and reaching forth a pair of arms as he neared his friend. "You're such a jerk."

"I know." Matthew giggled lightly, returning the embrace and wrapping his arms around Gil's torso. He glanced up into those scarlet pools devilishly."You still love me though."

"You wish!" Gilbert shoved away the Canadian gently, taking a spare second to scuffle up those blonde-curls before putting bare-hands back into a black jacket - a smirk remaining on that pale face. "I wouldn't get your hopes up if I were you."

"I'm just kidding!" Matthew called, fixing up his hair and hitting Gilbert playfully against the shoulder. "You're too much like Alfred anyways."

"Is that why you hung up on me?"

"Yep." Gil's pout was incredibly amusing. "You were starting to annoy me."

"I was just worried! That's all! It's not my fault if you decide to wander around the countryside all day..." The pair began heading towards the restaurant's door, Matthew's laughter soothing itself gradually.

"I wasn't wandering, I'll have you know I was on very important business."

"Which was...?"

"Classified."

"Oh come on! You didn't drive all the way here to tell me that." When they arrived at the entrance, Gilbert blocked the Canadian's path, crossing his arms and slanting his eyebrows childishly. "I want to know."

"Now you're really starting to act like Alfred. I already said it doesn't matter but," He grabbed his friend's hand, moving it to the side and slipping by him easily, chuckling at the un-amused frown it gained. "I'll tell if you want to know that badly. Wait till we get inside first though."

Gilbert grinned, cheerful personality returning as he flung an arm across Matthew's shoulder, pulling the blonde snug against his side and starting to lead them into the building. "That's my birdie!"

A sweet ding overhead was heard as they entered, the wooden frame closing shut behind them both as the German pulled them across the diner towards a vacant table. It was obvious Gilbert had been seated there prior - a half empty teacup was placed in the middle beside a folded newspaper. Matthew bit his lip in guilt, hoping Gil hadn't been waiting long.

They took their seats across from one another, Gilbert sparing no extra seconds before he began his questioning, already leaning across the table-top eagerly. "Okay, call you tell me now?"

"I can't believe you're still-" Matthew sighed, deciding it wasn't worth the bickering. "Never mind, it's fine. But could you tell me one thing first, please?"

The German rose a brow. "Yeah?"

"Why didn't you just call Alfred? I mean, he knew I was gone. He was there when I left." The question had been bothering him. Instead of wasting so much time waiting around, and attempting to get a connection, Gilbert could have just easily phoned Al. When offered the choice of two different paths, why take the difficult one? "It just seems like it would have been so much easier, you know?"

"I did, trust me. It was actually my first plan, but..." He frowned, moving back to properly be seated against his chair - eyes paling as they stared off into the unknown. "But..he.."

"He what?" Matthew rested his arms along the table, much like Gilbert had done previously, suddenly curious and worried. Moments when Gil was elusive and silent were rare. During the occurrences, there had always been something wrong that sparked such different emotions, normally, it wasn't the greatest news. Waiting patiently, the blonde grew suspicious as his friend failed to reply, continuing to stare off into space. "What did he do? I'd like to know-"

"He forgot." Gilbert turned forward, emotionless pools of crimson failing to change expression, even as Matthew's mouth dropped and his eyes flashed in shock, then pain. "I called him, and asked if he knew where you were. He told me he didn't know, and then he said to leave him alone so he could watch the game."

"Oh..." He hadn't wanted that answer. His own brother had forgotten him that easily? It wasn't like Alfred never had before, it was an everyday normality, how forgettable he was. But, Al had just showed so much brotherly-instinct during the phone call with Katyusha, when Matthew wanted to leave. Where had all the worry he'd shown previously go? So concerned, so protective... they had all drifted away like nothing. No care left once-so-ever. So much for feeling remembered...

"Hey," a soothing palm found its way to his arm-sleeve, holding it in a trusting hold as the owner smiled. "I'll have a talk with him later, okay?" Gilbert tilted with a grin, patting Matthew's arm in assurance. He wished for nothing but peace for his friend, it was that simple. Yet..

"No," the blonde pulled away, shaking his head in dismissal and holding his own arms against his chest. "Al just forgot again, it's fine.."

"Fine?! You can't tell me him completely forgetting about you is fine, Matt. He could've cared less, all he wanted to do was watch that dumb hockey showdown."

Matthew's eyes widened at the harsh words, surprised even at such an outburst. He blinked a few times, almost looking ready to agree before he shook, violets continuing to stare in denial. "He only forgot, that's normal."

"No, it's not. He shouldn't treat you like-"

"Everyone does it." Matthew interrupted, lowering his voice as he finished, "Even you have."

Feeling abruptly defeated, Gilbert slumped down, realizing at that moment he wouldn't be able to accomplish anything - the Canadian wouldn't listen; he never did.

Their rather long and awkward silence was interrupted by a bubbly waitress appearing alongside the table, two sets of menus in hand and an over exaggerated smile lighting her face. "Hey there! Is there anything I could interest you in?" She placed the booklets down, putting her arms behind herself as she waited for their replies.

Matthew wasn't hungry, he had already eaten less than an hour ago at Katyusha's. The meal had been enough to feed him twice over, probably more, but he didn't want to be rude so he decided on a small salad, while Gilbert chose some sort-of hamburger combo. The elegantly-themed girl - with her fluffy checkerboard dress, snow-white ribbons and vivid lacing - nodded, writing down their order on a notepad and grabbing the menus again, giving them a quick wave of 'Be right back!' before dashing off into another part of the diner.

The pause was uncomfortable, and Matthew might've been a little upset with his friend at the time, but he saw no need for them to keep silent. It was supposed to be a get together - a day to spend in celebration and enjoyment, laughing and cheering until the very last moment; their small disagreement wasn't worth ruining that.

"I was invited somewhere."

"Hmm?"

"That's where I was," he played absently with the end of a napkin - folding down the corner before repeating the process on the other side, "Earlier this morning, Katyusha called me and asked if I could help her with something. I had to leave the house for it."

Taking a sip of his coffee, Gilbert's lips grew into a tiny grin - perhaps because his question had finally been answered - watching with sudden attentive. "That explains a bit," he pulled away the mug, "Where'd you have to go?"

Feeling worried and anxious, Matthew flickered his eyes away; the idea of telling Gil the truth still being contemplated in his mind. After a brief moment, he returned the gaze, knowing the words had to be told. "W-well, I was invited to t-their-" he stuttered, voice not as quiet as usual but still timid, "t-their home..."

Gilbert's reaction wasn't as frantic as he expected, but the German still showed a clear sign of surprise through his facial expression. He held out his cup, setting the empty glass onto the table. "The Braginskis? You went there?"

"Yeah, I did." At witnessing the obvious rage his friend was hiding, he decided it would be best not to mention a certain Russian. "I went there to help out Kat, with her homework assignments."

"That's mighty nice of you." Gilbert said, taking a peek down the aisle in hopes of sighting their waitress. "Anything specific?"

"It was just math. But, we did make... a plan."

"A plan? For what?"

"All the subjects," Matthew still wasn't sure on how his tutoring with Ivan was going to work out. He had a few ideas, yes, but he didn't know how he would go about teaching him harder topics - history, geography; he was thinking a more complex method would be best, but his mind was completely blank. So, perhaps asking Gil would be the best next thing. That teen could have marvelous ideas when he thought hard enough. "I'm going to tutor her with everything, but... I'm just a little dumbfounded on how I'll do it."

Both had to pause their conversation when food was set down in front of them; a small, colorful mix of salad and a fat, calorie-filled burger. Their waitress re-filled Gil's coffee, gave them a few more napkins, and told them to call her if they needed anything else; giving a quick smile before running off.

"I'm s-sure a simple l-lesson will s-suffice," Gilbert spoke through a stuffed mouth, somehow still understandable through all that bread and steak. "Do y-you not think so?"

Matthew poked at the lettuce, still not feeling very hungry. "I don't think it will be enough for the difficult ones. Math and English? Sure. History? Not as much," he took a bite of the leafy-grain, not wishing to be ignorant. "I think I'll need something more..."

"Why not a museum?" Gilbert said, setting aside his meal to speak clearly. "Heck, even a monument would probably work too. While you visit, you could explain it all and Kat get's a visual representation in the process."

"Gil, that's... that actually might just work." Matthew looked to his friend in wonder.

"Killing two birds one with stone, right?"

"You're a genius."

Gilbert snickered, leaning back in his chair and resting silver-locks against his folded arms. "Naturally."

Matthew rolled his eyes at the administration, yet, he was rather happy at that moment. "Don't push yourself now."

"Are you saying that the awesome me isn't smart?"

"Well, those ketchup stains all over your face bring your intelligence level down just a little..." Gilbert's cheeks rose in color.

"Stains!? Why didn't you tell me!" He grabbed the spare bunch of napkins, bringing them to his face and beginning to rub in random spots. "I probably look ridiculous!"

Matthew stopped talking, but his rapid fits of laughter failed to halt; even as Gilbert stared at him un-amused, the blush on his cheeks almost as red as the ketchup.

"You missed a spot-"

"Shut it!"

..oO0(|)0Oo..

He closed the door firmly, ensuring it was locked and bolted before leaning back, resting against that pale wood in exhaustion. Tilting his head to the side, he caught sight of those blonde curls through a window, swaying evenly in the autumn breeze like fallen leaves. Ivan watched until Matthew was out of sight, stepping down the cement concrete and disappearing around a corner, probably heading to the garage to retrieve his vehicle.

Ivan brought a hand up to his aching skull, massaging the skin as the same message continued to repeat itself in mind.

Had he really just agreed to that?

He groaned, closing his eyes to try and concentrate better on the situation at hand: Katyusha had not only invited the Canadian over to their house, but she'd also thought it had been a great idea to have Matthew tutor Ivan, without mentioning one word to him! Was she mad? Just because she got along with the teen didn't mean he did. They only knew each other from the detentions, that was it.

"I still accepted that stupid offer from him though." Ivan said, gritting his teeth. "Did it have to come to that..."

Originally, he was going to decline such an outrageous proposal. Their time spent together in the study hadn't been a fun one, and even though some work had been accomplished, it was obvious to both that neither had enjoyed the lesson. Ivan had been looking forward to finally dismissing the boy, getting the annoying blonde out of his hair so he could return back to more important matters. But... Matthew just had to makes things difficult, halting his departure so he could go and ask Ivan the same question from yesterday. What was even more surprising, was the fact that he had said yes.

He hated the idea, oh yes, he really did. He didn't want to spend his quiet detentions arguing with a young, annoying male for the next month over algebraic expressions, but, it's just what it had come to. He hadn't agreed for himself, he'd made the clear enough already, but for his sister. He wouldn't deny that he was failing school: it was the truth, a rather tragic one at that. Katyusha had been pestering him to focus more during class, take more time out of the day to study his notes; he wanted to listen to her, a large part of him wanted to make her happy, yet, he never had gotten the chance. His evening affairs left him with almost no time to enjoy himself, let alone his education. Half the time, he'd arrive home so late and tired, that he would just fall onto the couch into immediate slumber, only moving when his sisters or a servant came to wake him. It been that way for two years, and not once had he ever bothered to try and change it.

Now, he finally had a chance. It was more of a desperation than it was an agreement, his acceptance. He only wished to try and make his siblings happy; to show them he could do something right for once; that he wasn't a complete and total let down to their family name. Even if he hated every spare second he was forced to spend with that blonde, he knew Matthew would end up helping him for the greater good.

"Now I'm the one who sounds pathetic..." Ivan sighed, slumping away from the door-frame to glance around the living room. It was rather silent - the only noises coming from the several maids scrambling across the floor-boards and a gardener mowing the lawn outside. Straightening his back, he looked towards the dining-room entrance, knowing a certain female was most likely sitting in there, occupying herself with some sort of novel. He needed to talk with Katyusha, discuss the motives that had led her to inviting Matthew over to their home. The visit may have passed, but Ivan was still upset with her, and that she hadn't mentioned one word to anyone else.

He began walking to the entry-way, hoping the conversation would be quick and straight-forward. He had business that needed to be attended to, and if anyone had to wait up for him he'd defiantly be-

"Big brother," an eerie voice stopped him in his tracks, two small arms snaking themselves around his torso and pulling tight. "What are you doing?"

Ivan stiffened. "N-Natalia, I need to go talk with Kat, please let me go." He tried taking a step forward, but at his sister's nails pushing against his stomach, he paused, realizing something was wrong. "Sister, are you-"

"I want to ask you something..." She interrupted, fingers holding tighter onto his loose jacket. "It's nothing huge or anything but..."

"What do you need?" Ivan tilted his head to get a better view, only able to see the top of Natalia's head where her bow was rested. Normally, he wouldn't show much worry or concern to his sibling; not because he didn't care or anything, but because Natalia always was affectionate. She never left his side while he was home, and every moment he managed to spend alone was a blessing. She usually was very forceful in her ways of showing 'love', always demanding and cruel with her words. When she was cautious and nervous, much like she was now, was when Ivan knew something was up. When she didn't reply, instead choosing to lean more into his back, he grew more fretful. "Is it about today? With Matthew showing up at our home?"

"No it's-.. okay, maybe a little." Natalia's tone was meek - almost as if she was holding back. "I didn't think he'd show up here.. and the fact that he wasn't Alfred," she spoke with distaste, "Was quite surprising."

"Da, I know. But, it really was Matthew, and you may not have ever heard of him, but that's him; Katyusha wasn't lying." Ivan thought it was best to remind his sister, in case she wound up forgetting and starting another fight."I didn't expect him to be here either, I was as surprised as you."

"He looked so much Alfred, I could barely tell the difference, brother. He seemed so much like him, almost identical, but I did see a few differences," Natalia sounded like a lost child: listing off things she had heard but didn't understand. "Wouldn't you agree?"

"Da." Ivan wanted to leave, he had things to discuss with Katyusha, they were important. He didn't want to interrupt Natalia though, however, he was beginning to find their discussion rather pointless. "Is this all you wanted to talk about? If it is, could we try later? I need to go chat with сестра about-"

"Nyet, it's not." She buried herself closer to him, hold growing firmer. "I wanted to say something else."

"Then tell me now." He felt Natalia frown through his coat, noticing how her voice hitched; like a whimper.

"Please..." That usually strong tone fell weak, crumbling into small sobs rapidly. "D-don't go..."

"Don't start this again.. I beg of you." Ivan bit his lip, reaching to the nimble arms across his chest, wishing to remove them. He grabbed her wrists, but she moved even closer, squeezing the dark fabric in an unbreakable hold and stopping him from continuing. "There isn't a need to tell me again-"

"Please!" A cold, harsh cry broke out, dissolving into weak sobs, and Ivan knew she was crying. "I don't want you hurt! It's going to happen, and then we'll be left alone again-"

Natalia was cut off as her brother twisted in her grasp, removing her arms. She feared he was leaving her, and she cried again, ready to scream for him to stay by her side and listen. However, all these thoughts vanished when thick arms reached around her, pulling her snug against a broad chest and not letting go. Those large palms gripped her shoulders, brushing underneath silver strips and holding strongly.

She was breathless, not knowing how to respond. Ivan never returned her hugs, her pleas, her wishes - he just made excuses. But this time, he held her, so close, so lovingly, the way she always wished a brother would. In an instinct she wound her arms back around him, not wanting to pass up such a rare and timeless occurrence, letting her tears slide down her pale face and drench his already ruined coat.

Ivan soothed a hand over her back, letting his sister cry out as much as she needed to. It felt so strange: showing an emotion other than fear towards Natalia. It also was.. nice. He couldn't explain the bubbling sensation, but he knew it was something good, and it brought him peace.

He pulled away, letting those hands remain on her shoulders as she looked up to him. Her face was red, cheeks still wet as a few more tears slipped free from those light-blue eyes, filled with care and confusion. Ivan wiped away the droplets best he could, soothing a gentle thumb across his sister's cheek to try and calm her. Luckily, the action seemed to work; Natalia's breath becoming easy again and her arms lowering to return by her sides. Ivan smiled: a genuine and true grin, "Everything will be fine, okay?"

She nodded. "D-da... if you say so, brother."

"Good," he let go then, backing off and taking a glance towards the dining-room, the place he still needed to go. "I need to go speak with Katyusha for now, she's still in the kitchen, correct?"

"Da, she's trying to convince the maid to let her do the dishes again." Ivan sighed. He would have to discuss that with her too it would seem.

"I'll go speak with her... thank you," he walked into the entry way, tilting his head to show one last smile to his sibling. "And Natalia, you can stop worrying about me. I can handle anything they dish out."

She watched him leave, hearing him chuckle at his own words - not arrogant, but conceited. Natalia lowered her eyes, playing with the ends of her hair distraughtly and repeating her brother's words. He said he would be fine, he was safe, he was strong. She had nothing to worry about... nothing at all - right?

"Oh, brother," her tone was aimless, knowing no one could hear her hopeless voice as she stood alone in the large corridor. "I wish I could believe you..."

..oO0(|)0Oo..

"You know, you didn't have to buy the ice cream.."

"Hey, it's my treat. I did forget about us even coming here, remember? I owed you."

A light laugh. "Yeah, I guess you did."

After finishing off their meal from the restaurant, Matthew and Gilbert had walked a little farther down the street to find an old ice cream shop, one that had been there for as long as they could remember. The Canadian was still full - his small salad had been enough to almost drive him over the edge - but he couldn't say no to his friend's thrilled face. The way his silver-streaked bangs would ruffle together as he jumped in excitement, when those ruby orbs stared in delight and joy at their find, how he had practically kneeled on the ground and prayed they could go inside. How could he have said no to that?

Entering the old-fashioned building had been quite the thrill - a new memory being evoked by each item they saw. Alongside the table top counter, there were dozens of stools and chairs, all surrounding a multitude of tables. Matthew could remember when he had his birthday party at one of those seats. He had invited all his class that day, and at the end of it all, Alfred had accidentally spilt his dessert all over his brother's lap. It brought a sincere laugh out of the blonde, as he thought of that day. He always found it funny how people only seemed to remember the worst of their past, rather than the good moments there also had been... perhaps it was just human nature. Matthew didn't quite know the answer to the endless question.

Both males had immediately gone to the cashier after entering, requesting their all time favorite flavors. Gilbert had decided on the classic mint chocolate-chip, while Matthew felt like satisfying his Canadian side and chose maple-swirl. After a tiny debate, the German eventually allowed his friend to pay for their snack, originally bewilded at the request. But Matthew had gone on and on, saying that it was only fair, also because Gil had payed for their lunch at the café.

Now they were seated on a worn bench outside the shop, eating away at their frozen delicacies and speaking of any topic that came to mind. Matthew found himself distracted by the gorgeous autumn view in front of him, the amazing fall weather at its finest. They may have been in the bustling city, with its concrete sidewalks, crowded highways, and pollution stained skies, but that couldn't stop the warm colors and expressive nature from being shown. Everything almost had a glow to it - something Matthew couldn't truly explain. It was just a fact, a sense; everyone noticed it, but no one could elaborate on the matter. A few prickled leaves passed by his face, awakening him from his trance and bringing him back to reality.

"So," Gilbert took a lick of his ice-cream, peering down to the Canadian beside him. "Did Alfred have any plans for today?"

"None that I know of." Matthew shook his head, focusing back on his friend as he gazed in thought. "Though, he may have gone somewhere with Arthur.. they're always together."

"That's what we all should do, go somewhere to hang out: all of us." He grinned. "Like tomorrow, or Monday or Tuesday. Sound good?"

"Tomorrow works," Matthew stopped mid-sentence to chew a piece of taffy found in his treat. "But not during the week, well, not until later in the day."

"You have other plans or something?"

"Not exactly.. I actually have an hour long detention I need to go too, it's kind of mandatory." He sighed.

Gilbert let out a small fit of chuckles, leaning back against the bench and raising a brow sarcastically. "Don't lie to me, Birdie, you'd never get in trouble. What's the real reason?"

The Canadian pouted, "I can sometimes you know.. But, I'm being serious, Gil."

The German straightened up, realizing his friend was telling the truth. He narrowed his eyes. "Well, what did you do then?"

"I didn't actually do anything, it was all Alfred's fault. It's his dumb punishment..."

Gilbert stiffened. "What do you mean Alfred's?"

"Well, long story short: Al got into a fight with Ivan, and earned himself a detention after school." Matthew groaned, taking another lick of his frozen treat. "He always gets into trouble.."

Ignoring half of the Canadian's sentence, Gil squinted, growing more confused by the minute. "If it's Alfred's detention, then why the heck are you taking it?"

"Al's to busy with sports, so I decided to go for him, it's pretty easy for me to look like him," Matthew giggled softly. He remembered saying the same exact sentence to Ivan. He peered up to his friend. "Wouldn't you agree...Gil, what's wrong?" At Gilbert's distraught expression, looking more horrified at the comment than amused, the Canadian stopped.

"Why..why are you doing this?" Gilbert shook his head, looking deeply into those violet eyes. "Tell me why."

"I-I don't know what you mean..." Matthew shrunk down, suddenly feeling nervous.

"Why you put up with Alfred, why you let him put your through all of this..."

"It's because I car-"

"How long?"

"H-huh?"

"How long," The German repeated his words, turning to face Matthew better. "How long is the detention for?"

"I-it's for a month.." Why was Gil so upset? So.. angry? It wasn't really a big deal.. Matthew was just doing a simple favor for his brother.. "Why are you so mad-"

"I don't understand!" Gilbert stood from the bench, not caring as his ice cream was thrown to the ground, pointing to his friend. "Why!?"

"I just want to help my brother out, there isn't a reason to yell. I don't know why this is bothering you so much.." He gulped, things were starting to get a little uneasy...

"Bothering me!? It bothers me that you let Alfred push you around so much! Why don't you ever say something, be your own person for once? It doesn't need to be like this!"

"I-I am my own person.. I don't let him push me around..." Matthew felt his eyes begin to water. He was his own person. He lived his life, he did as he pleased, he spoke out for himself.. didn't he?

"Don't lie to me again, Mattie!" Gilbert growled, grabbing his own head in frustration. "Open your eyes and look around! I've been near you for years, and I've seen it all myself: the names, the invisibility, the confusion - you are mistaken for him, but you just let it slide like it's nothing! I'm starting to think you like being ignored-" He snapped his hands over his mouth, immediately wanting to take back his statement, but it was too late.

Matthew stood up on weak legs, his body already trembling. He was ready to leave, he'd had enough of these comments.. these opinions, he didn't care if they were true, he wouldn't be able to stay sane another minute if they continued. However, Gil halted his escape, quickly grabbing his wrist.

"Matt, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-"

"N-no!" He pulled free his hand, his voice cracking in the process. His face had gone red - hot, fresh tears streaming down his pale cheeks. Those light-purple eyes were puffy, swollen in the midst of sadness. He continued shaking, whimpering out, "I-I'm going, t-this is.. I'm going home!"

"No, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you!" Gilbert was growing frantic, approaching his friend as he began backing away. "I just wanted to try and make you see, help you realize. But, I hadn't meant to make you cry!"

"Y-You don't understand! You don't know anything, Gil, and you couldn't!" He turned then, away from the bench, the store, and away from his friend.

Gilbert just wouldn't be able to understand everything he'd been through. His family, his brother, the pain, the suffering.. He hadn't chosen to be the person he was today: the invisible, shadow teen he was. But, that's what it had to be. If being a ghost would help out Alfred, then so be it, he'd do anything to protect his sibling.

He continued running, not caring as he pushed past other occupants on the curb, and as he ran through the traffic lights, hearing drivers throw insults at him. He kept moving, even as his legs grew weak, and even as Gilbert's pleading yells faded off into the distance behind him.

..oO0(|)0Oo..

.-~Thank you for reading~-.

Review goal is still 45 reviews! I know we can make it guys! Also, there is currently a poll on my profile for the next RusCan fic I'll be doing! If you'd like to have a say in the matter, than please, take a look and vote. If you have the time of course :)

Welp. Only time a chapter will come out this earlier. I never realized how much I love writing Natalia and Ivan.. she's actually pretty nice to write when she isn't trying to hurt or murder someone... Until next time guys, this fic is heading along nicely.~

-Radi0

I don't Own Hetalia