A/N: So like, remember that song Alfred found on the mp3 player back in Chapter 4? My mom literally randomly sent it to me as I was writing this and I just thought that was funny. I mean, it's a very common song, but now I'm 100% assured that Alfred dismissing it is a true possibility. I'll bring it up again when it's relevant.
And a certain someone finally makes an appearance!
Also, um, this was actually one very long filler chapter btw. Over 40 pages because a lot has to happen to fill the time gap, so I split it in half so I wouldn't overwhelm myself. I'll be publishing the second half later in the week or next and hope this is enough to excuse my absence, school and this virus have been stressing me out so much that I've been playing Animal Crossing religiously lol.
Chapter 10: The Seeds of Corruption
"Interesting. You usually don't take this form unless it is required, Dantalion," Deus regarded the other in his cathedral, his resonant voice startling the demon under his servitude as he appeared.
The aging man dressed in a torn Russian military uniform turned to him, pale and ghastly like a ghost. Annoyed, a tight smile crossed his worn features. "I can only be an alien for so long. You know how I am, Deus."
"This would be of no importance if the forms had no effect on your personality and whims. Should I be concerned?"
Eye twitching slightly, the facade was wiped from the ancient entity's face. "Wary and paranoid as ever. What makes you assume I'm plotting against you?"
The god's glassy orbs bore hard into the other. "As you are currently, you've always held a close association with Second. That, along with how recent events have veered from the predicted path, makes me wonder if it truly is a matter of cause and effect," Deus paused in contemplation, eyes squinting with suspicion. "Or perhaps it is something more..."
"Your forthcoming death must have you deluded," the demon answered haughtily with an arrogant grin, though the strange glint in his eyes was noted by the observant god. "I have not left the Cathedral since the game commenced, as was the agreement, and you know I am bound to none other than my master. There is no way I could have intervened with how events unfolded."
"So you say, but I know you wouldn't have donned the cold and ruthless guise of General Winter if there wasn't something going on behind the scenes."
"You would prefer I were Tony, despite having already placed your bet on First? The game would be very boring if we both rooted for the same champion. Or perhaps you'd prefer I were one of those annoying mochi?" Dantalian scoffed. "And yet you have the gall to accuse me of favoritism."
Deus hummed, unperturbed in the slightest. "It is apparent that you've been in this form for quite some time, it isn't unreasonable for me to have my suspicions. But it is of no matter, I have implemented some precautions in the case of any more surprises, so by all means, continue with this entertainment. I've never anticipated an outcome this much before, I'm excited to see what the future brings. "
The demon's lips quirked into a wry smirk. "So am I."
.oOo.
It wasn't the first time Alfred opened his eyes to a star-covered ceiling with little recollection of the night before, though unfortunately a part of him was certain it wouldn't be the last. Hero was nestled between his legs over the blankets, hugging up all his warmth as he normally did, but it'd been a while since he heard light snores in his ear. Tilting his head, he saw none other than Ivan Braginsky sleeping on his side beside him, an arm draped over the American's waist holding him close.
Oh, right.
Sitting up quickly and burying his head in his hands, memories of his confrontation with Sixth hit him harder than a pickup truck. He'd throw up had he not already back at the precinct the night before, the abrupt twist of anxiety in his stomach was just too much to bear.
Had he really almost been... gang-raped? Had Ivan really mutilated and killed an entire criminal organization just to protect him?
Turning to the Russian, he noticed Ivan blinking his violet eyes slowly as he awoke, a gentle smile on his face when their gazes met. "Good morning, dear."
The younger of the two pursed his lips, fingers finding themselves anxiously brushing through cat fur as he thought of a way to approach the subject that had been bugging him for some time now, even more so since the previous night. Upon Ivan's concerned reaction in the corner of his eye, Alfred let out a deep breath. "Can we talk?"
It was Ivan's turn to sit up, his violet irises searching Alfred's face. "Of course, my love. What troubles you?" A pale hand was placed over one of his own, ceasing his petting and interlacing their fingers.
Blue eyes flickered to the other before back to Hero, who seemed annoyed that his hand was no longer brushing him. "Why didn't you tell me about your powers?"
Ivan stared at him confused, raising a brow. "My...powers?"
Nodding, Alfred finally fixed his gaze on Ivan. "Yeah. That's what they are, right?"
"I do not have any powers," Ivan insisted, appearing perplexed by the idea.
Alfred's lips curled down with doubt, but he should've expected this. Most supers denied who they were to friends and family, usually for their own protection. "What you did the other day, nobody can do that. That's not normal. Your reflexes were on par with Spider-Man's, and if I've learned one this past month, it's that anything is possible. You were amazing, back at the school and then yesterday...dude, I'm still having trouble believing you're real."
The Russian blushed at the flattery, but was visibly uncomfortable. "Well, when in danger, adrenaline takes over, yes?"
"You mean like the whole, 'panicked mother lifts car off child' sort of thing?" Alfred rolled his eyes, unconvinced. "No way, you literally deflected bullets from semi-auto rifles with only a sword and came out unscathed. That's not adrenaline, that's a mutation or something."
Ivan paused, taken aback, before smiling fondly. "Nothing ever escapes you, does it?"
Alfred shook his head. "So, what is it? Does it have to do with your secret past in Russia?"
Violet eyes stared at him long and hard, for what almost felt like an eternity, before a half-hearted grin broke on his face. "You got me," Ivan said sweetly, but the lack of emotion went unnoticed by the other.
"Oh my god, seriously?" Alfred covered his nose and mouth with his hands, attempting to hold back from fanboying. He couldn't believe this was actually happening. Lowering them slowly, he continued on. "So, like, do you have any other abilities?"
Seeing a spark reignited in blue irises made Ivan's heart flutter, his cheeks reddening further with the realization that this had been because of him. Alfred had always been the one who saw him differently from everybody else, the only one who ever believed in him... "I would not say they are powers. I just have more experience and it shows."
"So…you're more like Hit-Girl and Black Widow? Punisher?" Alfred suggested.
"I suppose...But," Ivan lowered his tone, his expression serious. "This is secret. I cannot speak of it to anyone. We would be in grave danger if this got out," he warned. "It is best we do not speak of it at all."
"At all? Even when we're alone?" Alfred's shoulders slouched as he pouted, clearly disappointed. It wasn't everyday you met somebody who was the subject of your fantasies - he always wished for superheroes to exist and now there was one holding his hand.
Ivan released a heavy sigh. "Let's just say, other forces would not be happy. They may even make our lives more difficult if they knew. You never know if someone is listening."
"Oh, I get it. You're just being extra careful," Alfred nodded in understanding. "Okay, I can keep a secret."
Smiling thankfully while bringing Alfred's hand to his lips, Ivan kissed the skin there gently. "I know you can."
Blushing, almost melting at the touch, there was still something that kept him on guard around the other. "Just...one more thing. To put my mind at ease, okay? Then I promise I'll drop this." Seeing Ivan nod with affirmation, he exhaled a deep breath and started in a quiet, quivering voice, "T-the bodies in your basement….who were they? Be honest with me."
Violet eyes darkening as he frowned, the Russian's grip on Alfred's hand tightened protectively. "They were...bad people. They would have done anything to keep us apart."
"Bad people? So you're a vigilante?" Ivan stared at him as Alfred's brow quirked up in confusion. "And why am I involved?"
"Because you are precious to me," he answered softly, the intensity behind his words making the American's heart race as the faint pink in his cheeks bloomed into a full scarlet.
"O-oh, I see," This...this actually made a lot of sense, at least from his perspective as a superhero fan. His heroes always risked the lives of those close to them, which is why they carried secret identities...it was why he hadn't told his own family anything regarding the survival game. Suddenly it was clear why Ivan had been hiding things from him all this time, and though his many questions still had yet to be answered, at least he understood where Ivan's excuses were coming from - he'd seen enough comics and movies to know how everything went down.
And just like that, Ivan once again won Alfred's trust. It was crazy how drawn to him the American was, so eager to find any justification to have him back in his life - it was almost like they were destined to be friends. Not noticing his cat hop off the bed, Alfred was lost in a trance as he and Ivan exchanged shy smiles, silently enjoying their rare moment of peace.
That is, until Hero decided to scratch his nails against the wooden door, the loud piercing sound having been enough to startle their owner who jumped in surprise before glaring at the feline. "Hero, you fucking asshole," Alfred scolded as he withdrew his hand from Ivan's and pushed himself off the bed. "You know you're not supposed to do that, mom's gonna flip if she sees you ruining shit again," opening the door, he watched the cat dart straight out of the room and disappear down the stairs, only to be met with the delectable aroma of sausage and eggs. Now he understood his cat's desperation.
Breakfast. Of course.
Feeling his own mouth water and stomach grumble in response, Alfred faced Ivan. "Wanna get something to eat?"
"Da," Ivan answered as he stood, walking toward Alfred before following him downstairs.
In the kitchen, Matthew was scraping his eggs out of the frying pan and onto a plate with an expression of annoyance as Hero rubbed himself against his legs, meowing loudly as he begged. "No, Hero. You already have your food, this is mine," his twin huffed.
"You know if you give him a little bit, he'll leave you alone, right?" Alfred announced as he entered the kitchen, going straight toward the fridge to check out its contents.
"No, that only reinforces his behavior," Matthew admonished before his gaze flickered to Ivan. Feeling exasperated, he made his way toward their usually neglected breakfast nook. "You came home late last night," he reminded his twin as he took his seat, wanting answers for his strange behavior as of late. There was no way he could keep letting Alfred's secrecy slide.
Pausing as flashbacks from the day before flooded through his mind, Alfred's grip on the handle tightened. Forcing a smile as he turned his head over his shoulder, he noticed a familiar Dutchman finishing his meal beside his twin. Well, that certainly explained why the table had been cleared and was being used for its actual purpose rather than bills and clutter. "Mr. Zwingli needed some help and we lost track of time. Sorry, I wasn't aware we had a curfew," he pulled out the egg carton and butter and set it on the island counter before sending his brother's guest a glance. "Hey, Tim."
The young adult's lips quirked into a frown, green eyes narrowing slightly. "Hey."
Not thinking much of Tim's reaction considering he was usually brief and distant, it was Ivan out of the two of them who read the unspoken tension in the room. Silvery brows narrowing, he eyed the oblivious American with concern.
"The serial killer hasn't been caught, Al," Matthew said pointedly. "The curfew never went away."
Heating up the pan and coating the bottom with butter, Alfred couldn't help but wonder why his confrontation with Third felt like it had been forever ago rather than just a few weeks. Would nearly being murdered just become a daily ritual in his life, with each encounter outdoing the last until either his own death or the end of the world? Just what exactly did he do to deserve this hell?
"What does a cop want with two teenagers anyway?" The elder twin continued, carefully gauging Alfred's reaction. "Did you do something wrong?"
"Zwingli is a good friend of my caregiver," Ivan lied swiftly, effectively saving Alfred from answering. "He has been needing help rearranging his home, so Alfred and I volunteered."
Sharp-eyed as ever, Matthew frowned. "And that's supposed to explain why Alfred looks like a mess? Where'd you even get that cut from?"
Hand instinctively brushing against his cheek, Alfred felt the scar that was taking form. The one from when Sixth struck him. "I fell," he responded without hesitation. "My cheek just happened to graze against his TV stand and the corners were sharp as fuck," the best lies were those mixed with a bit of truth. There were occasions he liked to go into his parent's master suite, usually to enjoy their luxurious jet tub on a day he really needed to relax or when Matthew was hogging up their bathroom. Their dresser had the worst edges, nicking him in the arm more than a few times. As far as he knew, the scars felt similar enough to make it a reasonable excuse.
Matthew wore an expression of doubt, but clearly the cover-up had been enough for him to temporarily drop the subject. Instead, he resigned with a heavy sigh, "Well, anyway, we got an email saying school's back in session starting Monday."
"Oh…" Alfred paused, watching as Ivan reached for a couple of eggs then cracked them over the pan. Monday? But that was only three days away..."That's nice," his voice was even, as if he needed any more stressors in his everyday life.
Sensing his brother's discomfort, Matthew grew sympathetic. "Hey...mom called and said she'd be back by tomorrow. I know you've been missing her."
Another understatement. Alfred wanted nothing more than to be held in her secure embrace and told everything would be alright just as she'd done whenever he was spooked by ghosts since he was a toddler. Definitely much more preferable than his father, who tended to downplay his feelings in an effort to avoid confronting them. Madeline had always been the more receptive one of the two, and though her tendency to diagnose him was almost as annoying as Matthew's, she seemed to be the only adult in his life who could temporarily ease his emotional breakdowns.
Despite that, with how much danger he'd been attracting lately...did he really want her home? To unknowingly be involved in a survival game solely due to her association with him?
"So mémé is alright?" Alfred flipped an egg while observing Ivan prepare their dishes, intrigued by how the other seemed to maneuver around his kitchen so familiarly. It'd been a while since he'd been invited into their home like this and for them to be in a domestic situation together. Once again, it was hard to believe this was the same shy teen he met all those months ago. Even Kiku, who had been visiting for almost a decade now, lacked the confidence Ivan displayed, instead he had a terrible habit of waiting for Alfred to take the initiative. Not that it was unwelcome, he was glad Ivan could call his place a home after all the neglect and loneliness he must've endured in his own. It was just something different for the teen, something new, and he found himself liking it very much.
"She's fine. The surgery went well and she's able to take care of herself, but mum may or may not have to do some check ups during her recovery. Don't worry, she said none of those trips will be as long as this one has been," Matthew answered as he finished his meal. "And dad said he'd be back next week for the Super Bowl."
"Cool," Alfred replied impassively, unsure of how to react to this information. Happy and relieved? Paranoid and anxious? Or maybe even a mix of them all.
As he divided the eggs onto their plates, he noticed Ivan had already prepared toast with butter during his conversation. Smiling at the other thankfully, he blushed when he saw him beam brightly in return. Averting his gaze, Alfred wondered if Ivan realized how breathtaking he was when he was genuinely happy.
Picking up his plate, he decided that the family room would be a nice place to enjoy breakfast, especially since he didn't want Matthew to press further into his affairs. Ivan took his own and trailed after him, but not without shooting Matthew a warning glare. Turning to his friend, the teen sucked in a deep breath.
"He always does this to you?" Tim asked low huff, brows furrowing in anger as a protective nature overcame him.
"Always," Matthew grumbled as he glared daggers through the wall.
Meanwhile Alfred struggled to get to the couch without tripping over the ragamuffin running between his legs. "Hero, give me like two seconds, holy shit," plopping himself onto the couch, he watched the feline jump onto the armrest beside him, eagerly looking over his arm at the contents on his plate. "You fat fuck," picking out a few egg bits, he held it out in his hand and watched his cat devour it.
"I thought it was 'Hero'," Ivan lip curled with amusement as he took the free space on Alfred's other side.
"It's a term of endearment," Alfred answered. "Sometimes I call him asshole, little shit, dickwad. When he bites me and ruins my stuff, I say that I hate him, but he knows that's not true. He can get away with anything just because he's cute. Isn't that right, Hero?" Hand now empty, he began to pet his cat, only for it to be swatted away. "Ow. Why don't you love me? Why did Mattie get the good kitty," he sulked as Hero made his way toward the windowsill.
"They have such funny personalities, don't they?"
"Yeah, they do. Wait, you have a cat," he paused. Despite all his efforts to purge that night from his memories, it only proved futile. Maybe the negative aspects would fade away if he focused all his attention on Ivan's pet? "What's his name?"
Ivan gave a small chuckle. "Vodka."
"Vodka?" Alfred turned to him, letting out a few giggles as he stared at the other incredulously. "You named your cat Vodka?"
"Nyet, someone else picked name," Ivan answered, violet gaze softening as his smile faltered slightly.
Alfred failed to notice the slight change in tone. "Well, props to them. I love it."
Ivan's grin grew once again as he breathed a fond sigh. "I knew you would."
"Al, I'm going to Tim's place for a bit. I'll be back later," Matthew called out before appearing under the doorway, ignoring the Russian completely as he conversed with his brother. "If you need anything while I'm out, let me know."
"Okie doke," Alfred replied as he reached for the remote and turned on the TV, oblivious to the distasteful scowl on Matthew's face as he watched the Russian wrap an arm around his twin's waist in a possessive hold, a condescending sneer directed toward him. Rolling his eyes, Matthew was left to wonder why Alfred would let someone like Ivan back in his life. The guy was a total creep!
"Ready to go?" Tim asked when he met him by the entryway.
"Yeah, let's just get out of here."
Spending some time away from home and with his friend proved to be a wonderful idea, it was suffocating to be stuck in a house with someone who constantly gave him dirty looks while in his own space. If this was going to be anything like all those other times Ivan came over back before the two had their conflict or whatever, Matthew knew the Russian would act like some territorial animal hovering close to his brother, not even him letting him say a word before the atmosphere went cold. That sort of toxic environment was just too much for him all at once, he was glad Tim offered him a bit of weed so he could ease his nerves for a little while.
As the Dutchman packed a bag to spend the weekend with him, just in case Ivan wanted to overstay his visit (which would no doubt happen), Matthew made pleasant conversation with his parents as he finished his dinner. It was heartbreaking to see how dull their eyes had become since the death of their daughter and how Lux was now despondent and withdrawn. If only he and Tim could find out the serial killer's identity and bring some closure to the family. Unfortunately, all he knew was that his brother had some kind of answer - one that he had no intention of sharing. How he would bring up that topic, especially with Ivan hanging around, was difficult. He had absolutely no idea.
The two got back to Matthew's home before their town's curfew at 8 pm, none of the light's had been turned on. Hearing the TV in the family room, he followed the noise and saw his brother in a deep sleep, head resting on Ivan's shoulder with the other's on top. Glancing at the movie on the screen, it seemed his brother had been doing one of his marathons - Star Wars. How predictable, the elder twin thought fondly. Maneuvering around the ottaman coffee table to his brother's other side, he closed the pizza box on the surface and pushed it closer to the center to avoid any possible accidents. With a soft sigh, he went to nudge Alfred's shoulder.
A sudden, firm grasp snatching his wrist nearly resulted in a terrified yelp.
"Don't," Ivan threatened in a low growl, his narrowed violet eyes almost glowing as they were illuminated by the screen's light.
As he was being released, Matthew took a few steps back and slowly raised his hands in surrender, wondering how the hell Ivan grabbed him so quickly without making a sound. Still a bit shaken up, he silently watched as the Russian shuffled around carefully as he stood, his arms supporting Alfred in a bridal carry before swiftly taking him out of the room.
Tim entered after Ivan passed him by the doorway, completely disregarding his presence altogether. The disturbed grimace he sent Matthew as he flicked on the lightswitch said it all - that he too noticed there was something deeply unsettling about the other's behavior toward his brother.
"I know," Matthew sighed dejectedly, staring at the plates and discarded napkins that remained.
Time to take care of his brother's mess, as usual.
.oOo.
It was around seven in the morning when Alfred woke up, still feeling groggy as he turned to his side, only to be startled by the sight greeting him. Wide eyed and frozen with fear, his gaze was fixed on a large figure entering his bedroom through the window. Seeing platinum blond hair, he only relaxed slightly as Ivan squeezed a large duffel bag through and cautiously lowered it to the floor before soundlessly following after.
Their eyes met and after a long, silent pause. The Russian gave a small laugh. "Sorry! Did I wake you, dorogoy?"
Pushing off the bed, Alfred made his way toward the window and peeked outside. "Did you- did you just climb up that tree? With that?" he pointed toward the bag. "Why didn't you just use the front door?"
"I went to get my stuff so I could stay a few nights, but I didn't want to leave you alone...if your brother knew I left your side, he'd corner you with questions."
"I mean...okay. But how…" he stilled, suddenly remembering all the weird situations that had been happening in his bedroom since he met the other. No. Fucking. Way. Blue eyes wide, he stared at the other dumbly. "How long have you been doing this?" he asked slowly, dreading the answer he already knew.
Like a child being scolded by their mother, Ivan wrung his hands together and revealed a soft, but guilty answer. "A while…"
"A-A while?" Alfred would've shouted had his voice not cracked. Pounding his chest and letting out a few grunts, he was able to get his normal voice back. "What do you mean by a while?"
"No, no. Do not freak out. Please," Ivan pleaded, raising his hands apologetically, hoping to appease the other. "I thought this is normal! Is what friends do, yes?"
"Who taught you that?"
"Ah…" shifting uncomfortably and glancing away, violet eyes became cloudy and filled with somber. "I cannot say."
Crossing his arms, Alfred raised a brow. "Is this more secret, backstory stuff I'm not allowed to know about?"
Hesitantly, Ivan nodded. "Da...I am sorry."
"Okay, but just 'cause I'm letting it slide now doesn't mean you're off the hook. You do realize that I expect you to explain everything to me eventually, right? Before one of us dies."
"You will not die," Ivan affirmed, as though it weren't even a possibility. It was hard for Alfred to retain his angry front when the other constantly made him feel like he was about to swoon. "And I will tell you, but not now. It must wait a little longer."
"When? I want a date, and you have to swear you'll tell me the whole truth," letting out a heavy sigh, he gazed into Ivan's eyes softly. "You're very...different from anyone I've ever met before. I just want to understand why you do the things you do, Iv. It's annoying we keep having these misunderstandings."
"I…" Ivan chewed on his bottom lip unsurely before pulling his cellphone out from his pocket. "C-can I show you something? But you must promise you will not be mad."
Furrowing his brows, Alfred gave Ivan a slow nod and watched him scroll through his diary's entries until the screen was presented to him.
30 April [19:10]
Fedya becomes one with me.
[Happy End]
"Becomes one?" The American's face flushed a deep scarlet as he jumped back, stumbling and nearly falling onto his mattress. "A-As in like sex?"
Ivan hummed in content, a lovesick expression taking over his features as he cradled the phone close to his chest. "By this time, you will return my feelings. We will be in love and we will be happy. You will finally trust me and understand."
Staring blankly at the other, Alfred knew deep down that there was a truth to Ivan's words. After hitting puberty and abandoning Deus, his life was turned upside-down once he was accepted as a popular kid. Being pressured into many things he wasn't comfortable with, he developed a deep dislike toward hook-up culture after having his heart ripped out on one too many occasions. Despite having a bit of sexual experience, he refused to go all the way - he was very adamant about that. Maybe this was him being old-fashioned, but he wanted his first time to be with someone he trusted and loved. He hated all those times he had been a one-time fling and then discarded like nothing.
But the other day almost completely ruined his ideal. After what happened in Sixth's manor, the younger teen wanted nothing more than to block out anything related to sex. The memory just made him feel vile and ashamed, it would definitely be a while until he recovered. "You know, that could always change right? We've still got a ways to go before the end of April," he muttered defensively while crossing his arms.
"Nyet, this is a future I won't let anybody change," Ivan spoke up passionately. There were tears gathering in his eyes, the sight of which surprised Alfred. "Not even you. It can't change. This must happen," he exhaled shakily as tremors ran throughout his body.
"U-um, why?" Alfred asked awkwardly, having to look away from the other due to his own discomfort. This was such a weird conversation, not to mention first thing in the morning, and Ivan's reaction was only complicating things.
"I always thought I was incapable of being loved," Ivan confessed softly, his gaze downcast and clouded with memories. "But then I met you...you were nice to me, you gave me so much and then-" his breath hitched before he clenched his eyes shut while shaking his head. "My whole life, I was hated and feared. They called me a monster, and for long time, I believed it was true," his intense violet irises then fixed on Alfred. "But when you reached out to me, you saved me. You are my sun, my everything. Without you, I am nothing." Alfred's arms fell while he stared back in shock. "I love you, Fedya...and for you to return my feelings, there is no greater future. That is why I cannot lose this, please understand. It is only way I can die in peace."
The weight of the Russian's words made him speechless, his mouth rendered completely dry. Mind drawing a blank, Alfred hadn't the slightest clue on how to respond to something like that, but his heart was heavy with sympathy. No one deserved to live without love, to be treated like a monster. Nobody should ever have to be alone. "Iv, I-"
"Hellooooo," a familiar voice called from downstairs and Alfred's heart skipped a beat. "Can you boys hear me up there? I'm home!"
Glancing back at Ivan, the other waved his hand in dismissal and smiled cheerfully. "Do not worry over it. Now, let us greet your mother, yes?" Before Alfred could respond, Ivan was already out the door.
Madeline had greeted Matthew and Tim by the time they were headed down the stairs, hugging her eldest son tightly before backing away. "Did you guys have a sleepover or...Ivan! You're back!" she grinned at the tall teen. "I'm glad you and Allie made amends, he was so miserable without you here all the time-"
"Mom!" Alfred hissed, his face completely flushed as he finished his descent.
"Oh my baby," she rushed to embrace him, squeezing him tightly. "Are you okay? Did they hurt you? I'm so sorry I wasn't here sooner, I promise I'll do everything I can to make it up to you-"
"Can you start by letting me breathe?" he teased despite the painful sting in his eyes. As much as he wanted to return her hug, he knew he'd lose control over his emotions if it went on for any longer. He couldn't afford to do that, not in front of her. There was no way he could risk his mother thinking something was wrong, instead he had to brush off his last few weeks like they were nothing.
"Sorry," she took a step back to give him some space, but kept her grip tight on his arms as though she would lose him. Forcing a smile, Alfred was ridden with guilt after noticing the wet streaks running down her cheeks. "I'm just...I'm so glad to see you."
"I'm glad to see you too, but I'm okay. I promise," he assured her, paying no heed the affronted look Matthew sent him.
Madeline wiped away a few stray tears with the back of her thumb. "You were always so brave-" she paused, brows furrowing when she noticed the cut on his cheek. Her fingers caressed the area surrounding the wound as she scrutinized it up close. "What happened here?"
"Oh, I just tripped and hit a desk," he answered easily.
"I thought it was a TV stand," Matthew's eyes squinted in suspicion as he crossed his arms.
"It was a surface," he retaliated, challenging his brother.
Their mother let out a tired sigh. "Allie, you need to be more careful, you could've gotten seriously injured. What if it was your eye?" Glancing into his blue ones, she raised a brow. "And speaking of eyes, what happened to your glasses? You always wear them."
"They, um, they...got lost during the raid," he finished lamely.
"What?" Madeline blinked in surprise. "Oh, but you loved them. You wanted to get your own pair so badly after Mattie got his..." she reminisced sadly in front of their guests, much to his chagrin. "I'm sorry...but your vision isn't too bad, right? Or do I need to call the optometrist?"
"No, no. It's okay," Alfred shook his head. "Don't I have an appointment in a few months? I can just wait until then," though that wouldn't be until after the survival game concluded, he thought despairingly.
"If you're sure..." his mother trailed off. "But if at any point it bothers you, tell me and I'll make an appointment. Deal?"
"Deal."
Further examining his face, she shook her head. "Are you getting enough sleep?" her thumb traced the dark circles under his eyes. "Have you been taking care of yourself at all?"
"Mom, I'm fine," Alfred turned his head and shrugged out of her hold. "Don't worry about it."
"You don't look 'fine'," she huffed. "Do I need to call Doctor-"
"I said I'm fine, mom," he snapped, immediately feeling shame the moment the words fell from his lips as she, Matthew, and Tim all raised their brows in alarm. Shit. "I'm fine," he tried again, this time more calmly. "It's just people have been asking me that a lot lately and it gets frustrating. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to raise my voice."
"I see," Madeline clicked her tongue. With the atmosphere still tense, she clapped her hands once to dissipate it. "How about I make us all french toast for breakfast? That way I can tell you all about my mother's 'exciting' night before her fall. It's quite the story."
Chuckling as he easily bounced back to his cheerful self, Alfred followed her toward the kitchen. "Yes, ma'am! Sounds like a plan."
Matthew pursed his lips and traded a wary look with Tim. The sooner he got answers out of his brother, the better. For everyone. Clearly his twin wasn't in his right state of mind, and now his mother was pressing his patience with her overbearing concern. This was becoming almost exactly like the time she wanted Alfred to go to a doctor because of those imaginary friends of his. As much as Matthew appreciated her effort and knew she only meant well, it was not the approach his twin responded well to. In fact, it held the complete opposite effect and only made his brother completely shut down. As a result of Matthew agreeing with her during that time, a good piece of Alfred's trust in him had been severed. He had to do everything he could to earn that trust back, then and only then would he be able to convince Alfred to get the help he needed.
Approaching them with a tight smile, the aura surrounding Ivan was anything but friendly. "I do hope you two aren't planning what I think you are. It is not wise to meddle in other's affairs," he warned sweetly.
Matthew glowered at the Russian, not backing down. "I don't know what you got him sucked into, but I will find out."
Ivan replied with a sardonic grin. "This is beyond you. If you value your brother's health, you will keep your nose out of his business. Is that understood?"
Without waiting for a response, he followed after Alfred, leaving the two to talk amongst themselves.
"Prick," Tim scoffed, rolling his eyes before turning to Matthew. "Now what do we do?"
"Exactly what I need to."
.oOo.
Matthew put the car in park after pulling into the LIRR's drop-off zone. Taking a moment to recline in his seat, he tilted his head and watched his mother finish applying her mascara. It was 6:48 am on a Monday morning, the first day of school after a long break - it would be at least a couple of weeks before he got back into rhythm, but he was anxious about how different things would be moving forward. All this news about his school, the deaths of his peers and principal, and the unanswered mystery of their local serial killer - the anticipation of what was to come was too much bear. All he wanted was for this nightmare to be done and over with.
"Maybe I shouldn't have spent the extra day home...I should've left last night. Sorry for making you boys get up so early," Madeline frowned as she packed her make-up.
"It's fine," the elder twin yawned, massaging the side of his head as he tried to clear his thoughts. "It's good for us to get back into the habit."
In the back seat, Alfred had his arms crossed on the door panel, his head resting on top as he took in the sunrise and pretended to remain blind to Ivan's unwavering gaze. 'No pretty colors this time, only fog,' he thought with disappointment. It was like the world knew it would be a miserable day for him, there was no use sugar-coating the inevitable.
Drumming his fingers against the frame, the stress he felt just couldn't be alleviated. First of all, Mr. Edelstein was going to be very disappointed he'd been slacking off on his trumpet practice. Second, he would have to face all the people who were victims to the raid, as well as come to terms with those who were lost. Third, he was going to have to see Feliciano Vargas, look him in the eyes, and pretend he hadn't watched his psychotic father be impaled against a chair. Fourth...how the hell was he going to survive through Spanish class when he now knew the serial killer had been none other than Antonio? His teacher, one of Francis' close friends, was the one who killed Emma. As of now, going to school felt like a death sentence, its image forever tainted. Just the thought of it alone made him want to hurl.
Unfortunately, his mother wasn't having any of it. 'You can't just drop out of school. Besides, the fresh air and seeing your friends will be good for you. Matthew told me you were cooped up at home the whole time...but if it really bothers you, I can see about transferring you to a different school…' God, if only she knew what he went through these past few weeks, he'd be able to get away with anything . Instead, he kept his mouth shut and observed the individuals waiting for the train, just wishing he could've been blessed with a normal life.
Hearing the train in the distance, Madeline quickly said goodbye to her boys and Ivan before taking her leave. Once she safely boarded, Matthew switched the gear to drive and began heading to school, the car ride completely silent all the while. Alfred had been in no mood to initiate conversation, and it was unlikely his twin and Ivan would ever get along. As they neared their high school, the teen's apprehension increased exponentially, his breathing becoming more audible and intense. He was one impulse away from opening the car door and making a run for it.
But then Ivan's hand found his own, caressing the back with his thumb while offering a reassuring smile, effectively calming his shaking nerves. Wait, he wasn't alone, he reminded himself. Ivan was a superhero, and they both had powerful diaries that told the future - they could get through anything together. That's right, he could do this. Alfred F. Jones wasn't a coward, he faced death multiple times before and could do it again. He was a survivor, he'd been one since the day he was born, it was practically second-nature. Giving the other's hand a tight squeeze, he felt a bit of confidence restored to him.
Matthew parked the car and exited the vehicle before the others followed suit. Sending his brother a look of concern, he moved toward him and offered a comforting pat on his shoulder. "Hey, if you find that you can't handle today, we'll try to get you an excuse note. I'll ask Tim if he can come get you, okay?"
"I can do this," Alfred declared with a nod. Despite his anxieties, he was determined to prove his resilience and show there was nothing wrong.
Matthew's lip curled into a gentle smile as he pulled back his arm. "There's the Al I know."
Walking toward the doors closest to the band room, Alfred's eyes glanced at the group of his peers gathered in front of the main entrance as they made their way inside. There were a lot less people now, many had transferred after the attack, but the teen was relieved that none happened to be his friends - though he did recall Kiku texting him that his parents were seriously considering it. Among the sea of students, there were many faces he recognized, but a pair of striking emerald irises stood out from the rest.
Though that could be because the stranger was staring intently at him.
Alfred froze, time suddenly standing still. That pale skin and lean body with sharp angles, his crown of messy blond hair...the American couldn't think of a time where he ever met this person, but the way green eyes squinted with tenderness beneath thick brows and that cocky smirk suggested otherwise.
There was just something about him that felt so...familiar.
"Solnyshko? What's wrong?" Alfred turned to Ivan, blinking rapidly as he was pulled back into reality.
"Huh?" His eyes flickered back toward the stranger, but he was gone - nowhere to be seen. "I just thought...I saw someone," he frowned, massaging his temple as he wondered if he had imagined the whole thing.
"You saw someone?" Ivan followed Alfred's gaze, but saw no one.
"Yeah...it's nothing," Alfred shook his head. "Let's just get inside. It's cold as hell out here," to emphasize his point, he hugged himself tightly.
Watching the other pass him to enter the building, Ivan quickly surveyed the area before following suit, making sure nobody suspicious was pursuing them.
As they walked together down the hall with the Russian remaining very close to his side, Alfred pursed his lips and came to a halt "Wait, your locker is the other way."
"Nyet, I will stay with you," Ivan answered resolutely. "I do not want to leave you alone."
"I won't be alone, it'll be like five minutes. I got this, so don't worry. You don't have to babysit me the whole time," Alfred huffed, almost rolling his eyes. Just because he was the love interest in Ivan's story, that did not mean he had to accept the role of damsel in distress. No, he was a capable human being who could take care of himself. Lingering awkwardly, it was clear Ivan was hesitant to go off on his own until Alfred gave him an encouraging grin. "You can meet me at my locker once you're done. It'll be like old times, right?"
That seemed to motivate Ivan, a smile lit up his features. "Da, like old times! I will be quick!" And then he rushed off, almost as though Alfred would give him a cookie when he returned.
Letting out a heavy sigh, he continued his way to his locker, taking a moment to remember the damn lock combination before swinging the door open - back into routine. Almost as if nothing had ever happened, like the raid never even occurred. Seeing a sunflower and a bunch of love notes from Ivan made him think about all the things the Russian said the other day, especially his confession about their 'Happy End.' Would he really fall in love with Ivan by then? Considering that crush he had on him before their fall out last autumn and his repeated relapses, it was very well possible...but there was something strange about him. There'd always been, though that could be why he was so drawn to him in the first place...
With an unexpected weight around his neck, Alfred immediately elbowed the perpetrator and slipped out of their hold, spinning around with his stance on the defensive. Seeing the shocked junior gawk at him with a lopsided grin, he was able to take a deep breath and relax.
"Damn, Al. Been taking fighting lessons or something?" Kyle joked, rubbing his rib where the other struck him.
Alfred shook his head. "N-no, sorry. It's just been a long couple of weeks. I didn't mean to-"
Raising a hand, Kyle laughed. "You're good. I forgot you were a hostage and all," as the words escaped his mouth, the Australian cringed, filled with immediate regret. "Shit, I mean...sorry." Alfred shrugged nonchalantly to show the other he wasn't phased, hoping it would alleviate the awkwardness. Fortunately, Kyle picked up on it. "So, you've really quit the swim team?"
Frowning, the elder of the two nodded. "Yeah, sorry...there's just a lot going on. I can't handle the extra stress."
"Damn, I dunno how we'll win without you, you're like a shark! Well, are you still gonna be a lifeguard this summer at the lake? 'Cause I was thinking about applying. It would be fun!"
"I might…" Not. After April 30th, he was either going to be dead or a god, with the former being most likely.
"Awesome! Well, in the meantime, we can still hang, right? And loosen up. I could get the Nerf guns out and we duke it out like we always do at my parties!"
That cracked Alfred up. "I'd love that."
"Oh! My weird-ass cousin's staying with us! You could totally help me piss him off!"
"What, so Wendy's moved on from being your partner in crime?" Alfred teased, the grin on his face being wide and genuine.
"She's been trying to act more 'mature' lately," Kyle rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Sisters, am I right?"
"I wouldn't know," the American smirked with a shrug. "Don't have any."
"Good morning, Al-kun," Turning the other way, Alfred nearly teared up at the sight of his best friend. Even if they were in constant communication via text and games, it'd been so long since they'd been able to speak face-to-face. "I'm glad to see you again."
"Yeah, Keeks. You too," Alfred finally felt at ease despite all the chaos in his life. Even if this 'slice-of-life' experience was only temporary, it was a great breath of fresh air. There was a sense of familiarity in hiding his problems behind a simple smile, it made him believe he could be an ordinary teen.
Violet eyes turned the corner with eagerness to return to the subject of their affection, only for their owner to stop dead in his tracks. Of course, there was the matter of his beloved's friends, Ivan seethed, feeling jealousy consume him. It was him who Alfred should be paying attention to, he should be the one to make him smile so radiantly. Grinding his teeth and doing everything is his power not to crush the book in his hands, he forced a smile the way he was taught so long ago before approaching his sunflower.
Clearing his throat as a way to announce his presence, Ivan giggled innocently when Alfred faced him attentively and missed the way Kiku's shoulders slumped in defeat. The Japanese teen didn't like this new change, it hurt when your closest friend chose someone else over yourself. Remembering how Ivan had stolen his desk the last time they shared class together and that Alfred had done nothing to stop it, he couldn't help but wonder if he was being replaced.
"See, was that so hard?" Alfred teased, leaning in slightly.
"Yes. Very," Ivan said bluntly, eyes closing as his smile tightened.
Kyle made a face that was a mix of trying to stifle his displeasure being around the school's pariah and a smile in support of his friend's relationship. Feeling uncomfortable, he felt that it was time to take his leave. "Well, I need to get to class. Keep in contact, 'kay?" he sent Alfred a finger gun gesture as he half-spun and began walking away.
"Yeah, of course. We'll find something to do," he waved the junior off.
Taking note of Kiku's less-open demeanor ever since Ivan returned, he pursed his lips and attempted to think of a resolution. Like with Matthew, it was clear the Russian had no intention of getting along with his friend, though at least with his twin he understood why there was tension between them. As far as he knew, Kiku and Ivan barely interacted with each other, so the hostility they held toward each other was unnecessary.
Entering their homeroom, Alfred rushed to Kiku's old desk, much to the others' confusion. It was the only way a compromise could be met without hurting anybody's feeling, this way they both could sit beside him - someone would take his spot by the window and another could take the center aisle. After realizing what the American had done, the two teens begrudgingly set aside their differences for his sake and took their place, content that at least they didn't have to interact. Being proud of his insightfulness, for a moment Alfred actually believed today would go against his judgement and turn out for the better.
Sadly, all good things must come to an end.
It was lunch when the train began to steer off-course, Alfred's reluctance to sit at their table only morphed to regret when Feliciano took his seat beside Ludwig.
Taking note of the Italian's disheartened disposition, evident by the way he slouched in his seat as he picked at his food and his troubled expression, it was Matthew who began the conversation. "Is something wrong, Feli?"
"Well, it's just…" Feliciano sighed, staring at the folded hands in his lap. "My mama has been calling me constantly, she's urging me to drop everything so I can live in Italy with her. And Lovino, I haven't seen him in weeks. He's so busy now that he's been relocated, and papa's not answering me at all..."
"What a shame," Ivan smirked, resulting in Alfred to inconspicuously whack him in the stomach gently with a scolding expression of 'what the fuck.' The wide-eyed, confused look the Russian responded with would've been funny if the situation itself wasn't inappropriate.
"Grazie," Feliciano failed to detect the sarcasm in the remark, though Matthew and Kiku both heard it clearly - like the Russian wasn't even trying to hide it. "I don't understand what's happening. I wish they would be more open with me."
The boys at the table then turned to Ludwig, with the exception of Ivan who went back to eating his lunch. Usually the German was the one who would offer a comforting word or two to the Italian, maybe even a small gesture, but right now he seemed distant, brooding, his mind completely elsewhere. Matthew and Kiku exchanged an unsure glance as Alfred studied the Italian.
God, he looked so much like his father, it sickened him. There were dark feelings swirling in his gut, a desire to make him suffer for Sixth's actions, but he had to remember this was his friend, not the man who tried to have him violated by his sick goonies. Lips quivering into a smile, he dared to open his mouth. "Hey, at least you still have us, right?"
A soft smile bloomed on Feli's face before he gave a slight nod, a twinkle in amber eyes. "Yes, I still have all of you."
The next encounter of the day, however, he had much less control over the situation.
It'd been a long time since he'd spoken with Chris, what with Kevin transferring schools after his hospitalization and the school's refusal to suspend Ivan resulting in the other to maintain his distance, but he should have known that a grudge against him still lingered. It was gym when he was approached by his peer, originally believing that Chris was going to ask him about baseball try-outs, to which he would've replied with how he wasn't going to bother with them this year.
Needless to say, he was surprised when the conversation took a completely different turn.
"Wow, so you tried to be a fucking hero during the raid and instead you were taken in as a hostage. What a textbook example of getting put in your place, am I right? " Chris jeered at him with a few fellow baseball players snickering in support.
That struck a nerve.
Slamming the locker shut, Alfred turned to his former teammate as he bristled. "You think I wanted that? You think I want any of this?" his voice was strained, pitch rising near the end.
"Well, none of that would've happened if you weren't always trying to be such an attention whore, Al," Chris rolled his eyes. "You got what you deserved."
Blond brows furrowed dangerously. "So, you're saying I deserved to die?"
"No, I'm saying you needed a reality check."
"But if he did die, you wouldn't see me complaining," Carlos joined in with a sneer.
"Shut the fuck up, asshole," Alfred snapped at his twin's friend. There were so many times he couldn't stand the other, as though it were his fault his ADHD had been rampant back in elementary school. All those misunderstandings, his recklessness which got them into trouble, and his loud, overbearing outbursts hadn't been out of malice like the Cuban was stubborn to believe. He literally couldn't control his behavior, that's why it was called a disorder, yet the other had the audacity to believe he was faking it the whole time.
How could he have been faking it when it severely hurt his ability to befriend others? When it made everyone avoid and shun him like an outcast? It was only when he got older and fortunate enough to have the symptoms lessen that he was able to make friends, to discover a way to coexist with it as it fueled his charismatic, extroverted personality. But Carlos seemed to think that he wanted to spend a good portion of his childhood taking medication, to have to go to those behavioral therapy sessions because something was wrong with him, to be the only preteen with imaginary friends since there were only a handful of people who could stand him...
Life had never been fair to him, but to say that he deserved to suffer because of the hand he was dealt? Maybe if they all spent a moment in his shoes, they'd change their minds.
For a fleeting moment, Alfred really wanted Chris and Carlos to be afraid, to know what it was like to be at death's mercy. Hands clenching and his jaw set, he advanced toward the two in a way he'd seen just a few weeks ago - like a hunter stalking his prey.
There was something satisfying about the way two pairs of brown eyes widened when they understood that Alfred had the intent of escalating this conflict into something physical.
A firm hand clamped over his shoulder, jolting Alfred out of whatever reverie he'd fallen into. Looking back, he saw that it was none other than Ivan, smiling down at him gently. "Do not trouble yourself with these worms, they will get what is coming to them soon enough," he promised, and the American teen paled as realization dawned on him.
Just what the hell was happening to him?
Trembling, Alfred needed to get away from here, especially when he saw his old team staring at him with disturbed scowls etched into their faces. No , this wasn't him.
But then why did it feel so right?
Lost in a trance and uncomfortable with this discovery, he shook himself out of Ivan's grip and rushed out of the locker room, deciding that maybe he would take up on Matthew's offer and try to get out of school early. Apparently they were going to have an assembly concerning the raid after this period, and with the state he was in now, there was no way he'd be able handle it. He felt like he was suffocating, he had to leave now .
Unbeknownst to him, Ivan had observed his behavior with intrigue, almost as though seeing him in a new light. This was...unprecedented, but most certainly not unwelcomed. In fact, it was rather exhilarating. Lips twitching into a grin and heart palpitating faster by the second, a warm blush spread through his cheeks as he ran after Alfred, eager to see what else their future would bring.
A/N: Ohhh, Alfred wants to believe Ivan is a superhero so bad lol. But yes, Alfred clearly has issues. He's not a completely innocent character, especially since it was so easy for him to accept the fact Ivan killed people as long as they were 'bad guys.' Then again, after facing a serial killer and an entire mob, plus his obsession with superheroes, can you really fault him for being okay with that? JUST as long as they're bad...but who gets to be the judge? Hehe(:
Again, reminder, the next chapter will be up in the next week or so which will set up the next arc. After it is published, I won't get anything out until mid-to-late May at the earliest because I have a LOT of catching up to do on projects/essays. I'm being crushed by all these responsibilities, please send help.
