Gilbert's younger brother really was something else. Ludwig was only three years old but cleaned his room everyday, took naps when he was supposed to, ate his veggies even if he didn't like them and minded the adults with such patience that would rival that of a sergeant general's. Matthew was undoubtably impressed by the younger kid and so were his parents, if their gawking was anything to go by.

The two German boys were going to spend the night, Ludwig insisting on coming over to (as he put it) keep an eye on Gilbert. Alfred's slumber party will take place a week after this one. He had to choose between two friends, so he was in their room going over the pros and cons of his choices.

Arthur was very attentive to everything going on between Matthew and Gilbert, especially after Gilbert patted Matthew on the head.

"What are you two up to now?" asked his British father.

Matthew loved him but he was getting a bit overbearing. Gilbert and Matthew were still watching the same movie as last time the question was asked. Gilbert took a gulp out of his soda.

"The movie's only halfway done," he told Arthur.

"Oh. I suppose movies are longer than when I was a lad," Arthur smiled.

"You mean in the year 1890?" Gilbert asked.

Glaring, Arthur growled at Gilbert like a rabid dog.

"Why you little wanker! I don't have to feed you my food, you know!"

"Your cooking sucks anyway."

Before Arthur could retort, Ludwig stood up and crossed his arms.

"You know better than to speak to your elders like that, Bruder. You should apologize."

Arthur smiled in pleasure. But the happy look was short lived when Gilbert ventured to speak again.

"I guess. And his old man heart can't take much anger. His blood pressure, after all."

If Francis didn't make it in time to drag Arthur away, Gilbert might have not lived to be six. Matthew offered his friend a nervous smile.

"I'm sorry about Father. Please don't be too hard on him."

"Don't worry. I'm not really upset with him. He's just really fun to make mad," Gilbert confessed.

That was fascinating for Matthew to hear. He would never have the courage to make an adult angry at him on purpose. Gilbert was the coolest kid ever. Matthew couldn't help but feel his face heating up as he thought about it.

"Are you alvight? You're all red."

Matthew looked away embarrassed.

"Yes. I'm fine. Thank you for asking."

"Matthew. Can I ask your parents for another soda?" Ludwig for some reason asked Matthew first then asked his parents. Why he felt the need for a double affirmative was beyond him.

"Sure. You only had one so far. Gilbert's already on his third can."

When Ludwig left, Matthew ventured to ask.

"Having a little brother must be fun. I wish I had one. Or even a pet."

"I have a bird," Gilbert informed.

"Really!" Matthew exclaimed. This guy had everything.

"Yeah. He's cool."

"What's his name?"

"Gilbird."

Interesting. Maybe he should get a pet and call it Matcat. That had a ring to it. He would have to ask.

Meanwhile, Alfred decided on Ivan. He would invite Kiku some other time.