There were very few people who could hold a reputation in college. Especially in such a large campus, but there were three individuals who one simply did not get involved with. The Bad Touch Trio, or BTT for short, was made up of a violent albino who could end any fight with a single glare, an even more ruthless Spaniard who could either be your best friend or your worst nightmare, there was no in-between, and an ungodly charming Frenchman who could seduce someone into signing their soul over to him. The entire college knew about these three and any incoming students were immediately apprehensive when spotting the unmistakable albino. Still, no one could argue the fact that they were some of the most attractive men on campus.

The three, after hitting it off rather well and at a party their freshman year, had created a game: see who could sleep with the most amount of people. Thanks to his lack of a violent reputation, their blonde Casanova was usually the winner. However, the Spanish brunette had a charisma that matched his stunning smile that their albino friend simply did not possess. Though, he was always close. Gilbert Beilschmidt, the self-proclaimed "awesome" bad boy, was still a massive heartbreaker.

One morning after a particularly boring party found the three friends lounging at the campus café. Their go-to location for hangouts. None of them suffering from a hangover but also not successful in increasing their numbers.

"This sucks," Francis huffed as his eyes looked over everyone in the building. "I think I've slept with everyone at this point."

"You've seriously got a leg problem," Gilbert snickered at the offense that settled on his friend's face.

"I'll have you know I've topped plenty of times!"

Antonio arched a brow at his friend. "The last girl you went steady with used a strap on you."

"Admit it, Francis, you like to spread your legs for everyone."

Affronted, Francis crossed his arms. "I didn't with you two!"

"Oh, bullshit," Gilbert rolled his eyes. "You started talking to us because you were trying to get in our pants."

"I just like to appreciate beauty! Though, you two turned out to be rotten to the core!"

Gilbert tuned out then. Allowing Antonio to continue the argument for him. He had zero energy for his friend. Despite being up by seven in the morning—yes, even after a successful party—Gilbert was low on energy before his first cup of coffee. Snarky and testy with the poor soul that dared approach him. Usually that was his brother, who was the exact same way. It led to a ridiculous number of fights over the most trivial of things. When his eyes caught a familiar head of blonde hair, Gilbert outright groaned and looked away. Swallowing as much of the addictive liquid as he could to keep a calmed demeanor. "Morning, eyebrows."

"Morning, Beilschmidt." The blonde fumed at the insulting nickname. "Fancy seeing you here."

The sarcasm was not lost on Gilbert, but he was still working on his first cup. "Figured you couldn't see us here every weekend past those damn eyebrows of yours." The offended sound that came from the blonde was enough to satisfy the wicked goblin that tormented Gilbert before his coffee. He smirked at the guy when he heard Antonio snicker next to him. "How do you see behind those things?"

"As well as anyone else! They're not that big!"

"Arthur, they really are," Francis deadpanned. "My offer to shape them for you is still on the table."

"No thanks!" Arthur huffed. "You look rather fine for having fun at a party."

"Some of us can actually hold our liquor." Gilbert bared his fangs. Indicating he was past done with the conversation.

Arthur made that offended sound that had Antonio snickering again and turned to leave. "And here I was going to be nice enough to introduce you to the new guys."

That had Gilbert's attention. Without getting up, he reached over and grabbed the back of Arthur's shirt. Effectively stopping the Brit from leaving. "Hold it right there, eyebrows. What new kids?"

A smirk pulled at the corners of Arthur's lips, but he hid it before turning to face the trio of friends. "Interested?"

"No shit." Don't test me.

Arthur heard the unspoken threat clearly and sighed. "Twins, though a divorce gave them different surnames. The older is loud, obnoxious, and always the center of attention." He grinned at the friends then. "Should fit in rather well with you lot."

"We're the BTT, not the BTQ. There's only three of us."

"Right, anyways: the other is practically the opposite. Both blonde with blue eyes. The older has sky blue eyes and a slight tan while the younger has deep indigo eyes and pale skin. Both rather gorgeous." He blushed slightly as he added that last part. "Alfred is the older twin and Matthew is the younger one."

"So, why tell us?" Antonio arched a brow. "You don't even like us."

Arthur flushed at the accusation but never bothered to correct him. "Well, I saw their schedules. They have English with us."

"Oh, good. Gilbert can have a desk mate now." Francis grinned. The three had played rock paper scissors to see who would have to sit alone and that happened to be Gilbert this semester.

"I swear you two cheat."

"We're just more in sync," Antonio laughed as he pulled Francis into a sideways hug.

Arthur cleared his throat to get their attention again. "There's one more. Another Vargas." This had all three men paying attention. Which caused Arthur to feel annoyed at the blatant interest. "He's nothing like Feliciano. So, don't get your hopes up."

"Damn," Gilbert tsked. "Was hoping for my own cute little Italian."

"Feli is still single, you know," Antonio offered.

"Oh, please," Francis rolled his eyes. "With the way he clings to Ludwig? The boy is practically screaming his unavailability with a megaphone."

Gilbert smiled softly. While he had most certainly gotten to know the Italian first, Feliciano had been star struck when he met Gilbert's younger brother. The strangest part of that interaction, however, had been watching Ludwig's mind screech to a halt when he saw Feli. Only to then function on full throttle immediately after as he all but stumbled over his own words. That was enough for Gilbert to back off. It was rare for his brother to like anyone. Much less forget his sense of self at the mere sight of them. It was interesting, bittersweet, and unnerving all at once. "Franny's got a point. West totally has Feli in his arms. Even if he's too stubborn to accept it yet."

"If he waits too long, he'll lose him."

"I doubt it. So, what about the other Vargas? Hot?"

"More like hot tempered, though he's about as attractive as Feliciano, I suppose."

"Sounds like you got in a fight," Gilbert grinned.

Arthur shot him a glare. He directed his next words at Antonio, though. "The guy isn't in English class with us, but he is in your culinary class."

"Wow. Should I be worried or flattered that you have my schedule memorized?" Antonio teased. Only to apologize when he saw Arthur turn crimson. That, however, did not keep Francis and Gilbert from laughing at the reaction.

"So, you want us to be nice?" Francis asked. His eyes still twinkling with amusement. "Is that why you're telling us?"

"I tell you because I do consider you idiots my friends."

"And because you want us to behave?"

Arthur sighed. "Yes, and because I want you to be kind to them."

"Knew it!" It was then that Francis seemed to panic about something and all but pulled Arthur into him. "Hold on! This wouldn't happen to be Matthew Williams, would it?"

"Uh, yes? I believe so, why?"

Antonio wiggled his brows at his friend. "Oh? Got something to do with that leg problem of yours?" That had sent Gilbert in a fresh wave of laughter. The man doubling over and clutching at his sides as he tried to even his breathing again. Even Arthur had snickered a bit at the accusation.

"Oh, would you two shut up about that!" Francis growled as he let Arthur go. "No, Matthew is my cousin."

The café fell almost silent around the friends as they stared incredulously at Francis. "You have a cousin?!"

Francis let his expression fall to an unamused glare. "Everyone has a cousin, idiots!"

"How's it hanging, Gilbert, dude?"

Crimson orbs glanced up to see their newest friend. The rather loud American really did fit in well with the trio. On day one the young man had demanded all attention as he introduced himself to the class. Much to their professor's chagrin and to the trio's amusement. Alfred was immediately kicked out and asked to stay away if he would continue with the extra energy. When the blonde came back the next class anyways, the trio knew he would warrant as much chaos as they enjoyed causing and had no issue inviting him to sit next to Gilbert.

Matthew, on the other hand, had practically slid into the classroom undetected while Alfred caused a scene. Gilbert had almost missed the kid as he all but teleported in the seat next to Arthur. The two sharing a friendly greeting. Only for Francis to jump in and annoy the Brit while making his cousin chuckle. Arthur had been right about Matthew's quiet nature. The kid was the studious type who worked hard in everything. However, Gilbert doubted the kid knew how to party at all. It made perfect sense why he got along with Arthur so well. Anyone who was that Brit's friend was fucking mind-numbingly boring to Gilbert.

"So, dude, you've gotta come to my party!" Alfred grinned as he sat next to his friend.

"Party? I'm down." Gilbert grinned back, "but, you know I'm taking Francy-pants and Toni, right?"

"Bold of you to assume I didn't already invite them." Alfred proved his point by waving at the other two. Well, to Antonio. Francis was always preoccupied annoying his friend while entertaining his cousin.

"Well, alright. Let's do it." With that, Alfred decided it was more important to go over the plans for his party than it was to listen to the next assignment their professor was going over.

Gilbert gave his outfit another look-over and smirked at his reflection.

He was well-aware of how pale he looked. His blood-red eyes were of no help either and Gilbert had suffered socially when he first started college. However, thanks to Francis, he had learned how to use his look to seduce people. Gilbert was sporting tight, black jeans that were tattered in just the right spots. Showing off his skin and muscles, while also covering his scars. A dark gray tank top with wine red decals to match clung to his body. Shifting with every movement he made and accentuating the hard lines of his torso. His arms were bare save for the leather gloves that stopped midway up his forearms. Having no real target in mind, Gilbert decided to take a denim jacket instead of his usual leather. No need to look so sexy that night anyways. He was more excited about the alcohol this time.

He walked out of his room. Surprised to see his brother was also dressed for the occasion. He arched a brow at him. "West? Where are you going?"

His brother cursed at being caught and turned a bit red. "Ah, well, Feliciano invited me out to some party his friend was having."

Gilbert bit back his laugh. Ludwig had always been weak to Feliciano. Only Feli could get his rigid brother out to a party. Even on a weekend. Still, Gilbert looked at him confused. "Glad you're getting out of the house, but I thought you didn't like Alfred?"

"Alfred?" His younger brother looked confused now. "Ah, no. Feliciano meant a different friend. Mabel? Martin?"

"Mattie?" Gilbert asked. Chuckling as Ludwig seemed to have the hardest time remembering the twin's name.

"Yes! I believe he was having a party and Feliciano asked if I wanted to come along."

Gilbert was stunned. Mattie was having a party? He imagined a rather boring event without any alcohol. Alfred had whined on more than one occasion about how 'Mattie' never liked any of the beer he brought home, and Arthur was known to get wild with liquor fueling him. So, no one allowed him to drink anymore. Gilbert shrugged mentally. So long as Alfred could go wild with his party then Gilbert could really care no less of what his twin did. He then focused on his brother's appearance and was surprised to see that Ludwig was also dressed for attempts at his own seduction. Ludwig's usual dark grey slacks and tucked, white button-up were gone. Instead, Ludwig had dressed in tighter fitting clothes. While he still wore slacks, now black, and a button up shirt, now navy, it was clear that Ludwig was using the tight fit to enhance his muscles. The shirt's sleeves were rolled up and Ludwig had cut short on buttoning his shirt. Letting his cross hang directly on his skin now. Gilbert grinned at his brother. "Hey, you've never worn such tight clothes before, West. Is Luddy trying to get a certain someone to look his way tonight?"

Instantly red in the face, Ludwig could only shake his head.

Not convinced, Gilbert walked up behind his brother. Pulled him in front of a mirror, and cupped his chest. "Wow! Your boobs are fucking massive! Feli was right!"

"They're not—GILBERT!" Ludwig wailed as he tried to throw his brother over his shoulder. When that failed, he moved to grab the nearest item and throw it at his brother.

The older of the two danced around the younger with a cackle. Dodging his attacks while collecting his helmet and keys. Racing for his motorcycle before riding away. He may keep himself physically active along with his brother—they went to the gym together, after all—but it was no secret that Ludwig had him severely outmatched in both height and strength. Gilbert looked rather scrawny next to his brother despite his own muscles. It was best for him to run away once his brother was overwhelmed and flustered. Though, that reaction had only solidified the idea that Ludwig was indeed trying to get "someone" to look at him. Gilbert chuckled to himself and shook his head. "Good luck, Feli."

Alfred's home was ridiculously large for it to just be him and his twin. Two stories tall and at least seven rooms wide. Just how was it that they were able to afford the house and still get scholarships for college? Gilbert thought it was completely unfair. He knew how much Antonio's cousin had struggled to get into college because her parents made just enough to straddle the poverty line comfortably. Life really was unfair when it wanted to be.

He parked near the entrance. Easily finding a spot for his motorbike. As he walked up and rang the bell, Gilbert braced himself for Alfred's greeting. The American also had an incredible strength Gilbert envied. Especially since the guy lacked the hulking body Ludwig had, but seemed to be even stronger than him at times. However, who he saw open the door made his brain crash. "Mattie?"

"Gil?" Matthew arched a brow as he glanced back at the wall clock. Mildly alarmed until he relaxed at the hour. "You're pretty early."

"Uh, yeah." Gilbert fought to focus on the conversation. Very distracted by the amount of skin Matthew was showing now. The kid's usual oversized hoodie and loose jeans had shrunk down to a much more revealing outfit. Matthew was now in fishnets underneath a pair of jean shorts that clung a little too well to his ass, and a cropped, sleeveless red hoodie that was low enough to allow for a rather suggestive choker to adorn his pale neck. Which derailed Gilbert's thoughts to a completely different direction. Noting the rather invasive stare, Matthew cleared his throat to get Gilbert to look back at him. Laughing a little as Gilbert felt his face heat. Flustered at being caught staring. "West was a bit angry at my teasing so I had to escape."

Matthew looked a bit disappointed. "I see. So, Ludwig's going to stay home tonight, then?"

Gilbert was a bit disturbed by how affected he was at seeing Matthew's dejected expression. It was like seeing a kicked puppy. He rushed to reassure Matthew and hopefully get that look off his face. "Ah, no. Actually, Feli invited him to your party and he agreed."

A spark of joy flashed in Matthew's eyes. "Oh, good! Feli got him to join us!"

"Ve~ I told you I would!" A familiar voice called out as the smaller Italian made his way to the door. "Hi, Gil!"

"Hey, Feli," Gilbert's smile softened as he saw the slim brunette bounce up to them. "West's still getting dressed. I think the party's got him nervous." Not exactly a lie. Ludwig was never fond of parties. Especially not ones big enough to invite half the campus. Still, Gilbert knew the real reason his brother was so nervous had everything to do with the Italian boy behind Matthew. Which was completely fair, in Gilbert's opinion. The boy was ridiculously cute most days and jaw-droppingly enticing at parties. Gilbert gave his friend a low whistle. "Looking good, Feli. Everyone's going to wanna dance with you."

Feli laughed and blushed at the compliment. "If anyone's going to be popular it's you, Gil! You're always really handsome!"

Gilbert melted slightly. He would never actively go after Feliciano with his brother in the way, but a little friendly compliment here and there was harmless. Right as he was about to flirt back, another familiar voice ran by him. "Flirt inside the house! You're blocking the way!"

The three moved slightly, more like were shoved a bit, as a young woman ran by.

Matthew was the first to move as he called out to her. "Thanks for the help María!"

"Yeah, yeah!" She called back and turned to grin at him over her shoulder. "You owe me a dance, though!"

Gilbert noted the slight panic return to Matthew's face. "Ah, yeah. I know."

Feliciano seemed to get excited as he grinned mischievously at his friend. "Oh? Your payment for her cooking is a dance?"

"Yes?" Matthew looked at him confused before he caught on and rolled his eyes. "She's just a friend, Feli." Not convinced, Feliciano continued to pressure Matthew into admitting what Gilbert could only guess was an attraction for his best friend's cousin before the blonde finally raised his voice. "Look, make yourselves at home. I'm going to finish getting ready and you," he glared at Feliciano, "are going to drop this conversation."

Feli threw his hands up in surrender. "Fine, whatever. Just trying to help."

"Feli, I live with Alfred. I know what that phrase really means." Matthew huffed before heading deeper into the house.

The brunette shrugged and turned to his friend. "I'm going to help Mattie with his makeup. Alfred's out back. Maybe he needs help?"

"Sure, have fun." Gilbert nodded before heading out to find his desk mate. He was drawn to the house. The inside seemed even larger than the outside. The living room, the furniture pushed to the edges, looked big enough to be an actual dance floor. There was a hallway connected to either side of it and Gilbert had to wonder if maybe the twins lived on opposite ends. Maybe the whole place was really just two houses put together. Considering that Mattie took Feli towards the side with the kitchen, Gilbert guessed Alfred was responsible for the game room on the opposite side. His suspicion only further cemented by the inclusion of a foosball and pool table. He opened the doors to the outside patio and saw Alfred hanging up some lights. "Hey, Jones. How's it going?"

"Hey, dude!" Alfred cheered and took a break to meet his friend. He slapped a hand on Gilbert's back. Either ignoring or deaf to the grunt of pain that came from the shorter man. "It's going. You're here early. Bro kicked you out again?"

"He was after my head," Gilbert laughed. He was amazed at what information the blonde did manage to absorb. Alfred had the shortest attention span Gilbert had ever seen. Which included the already too-short attention span Feliciano displayed as the Italian seemed to switch topics every time he blinked. This was why Alfred had a hard time remembering anything that was said literally seconds after being mentioned. However, Alfred seemed to remember whatever Gilbert said about him and his brother. In great detail, actually. Perhaps it was because that was how they connected. Alfred recognizing the same annoying traits in Ludwig that his twin possessed. "So, need any help?"

"Don't need any, but I'll take it if you're offering." Alfred smirked. That only caused Gilbert to roll his eyes at him. Chuckling, Alfred nodded and went back up the ladder. "Hand me the lights? Would really help speed this along."

"Sure."

By the time the backyard was lit and decorated, more people had shown up and the music started. Indicating the initiation of the party. Ludwig had made his way on time to help set up the inside with Feli, and Gilbert was surprised. He shot a brow up at his friend. "Thought Mattie was having his own party?"

"What? Why? He can just party with us."

Gilbert shrugged. "West made it sound like he was attending Matthew's party and not yours. Thought maybe he didn't wanna deal with how crazy we get and decided to throw his own." That got Alfred laughing his ass off. Which only served to annoy Gilbert and it took every ounce of self-control in his body not to deck Alfred in the face. "What's so funny?"

"Ah, sorry. He's not really boring, you know? I mean, he can be, but dude likes to party."

"You're kidding."

"I'm really not." Alfred grinned at his friend's disbelief. "Did you forget who he's related to?"

"Aren't you twins?"

"Yeah, but I take after dad. Mattie's the Frenchie who takes after mom. She's the reason Francis is related to us." He huffed and crossed his arms. "As far as I'm aware, that makes Francis his problem, not mine."

"Right. So, partying is in your blood cause of Francis?"

"Ew, no!" Alfred looked truly mortified and Gilbert had to bite back his laugh. "I'm just saying that those two grew up together. Of course, Mattie's gonna be into partying about as much as he is."

"Huh, never would've figured."

Alfred shrugged. "He's got a lot on his plate, if that helps. I think he was looking forward to this break more than I was." Gilbert did not miss the flurry of emotions that were quickly masked with Alfred's signature grin. Still, he decided it was best not to ask.

Instead, Gilbert scanned the writhing mass of bodies to see anyone willing to dance with him. His eyes landing harshly on Matthew. Enthralled by the blonde's movements. His eyes following as Matthew swung his hips. He was crouched over his dance partner and Gilbert felt a little disappointed that he would never get to feel that movement himself. Then, he blushed furiously as he heard Alfred laugh next to him.

After sensing he was being ignored, Alfred decided to follow Gilbert's gaze and find out what had captured his attention so fully. He grinned as he saw his twin. Remembering the warning Arthur had given them.

"All three of them have a thing for cuties like you. Thankfully you're related to the most relentless of the three, but that doesn't mean the other two aren't a threat. Please, Matthew, be especially careful around Gilbert. He has a thing for strange colored eyes."

Alfred shrugged. "Hey man, it's okay. I don't control Mattie's life."

"N-No. What? I'm not," he huffed and combed back his hair. "I don't want to complicate things."

"Well, suit yourself." Alfred watched as Matthew straightened to greet Arthur. The man looked much younger in his punkish attire and much more inviting. His eyes squinted to try and see who the girl tucked into Matthew was, though. "I think I'd like to complicate things tonight."

Gilbert laughed as he saw his friend approach the group. Immediately shining with genuine excitement as he saw, hugged, and spun María around in greeting. It looked like they had known each other for years. That was odd. Not really wanting to think too much, Gilbert made his way to the kitchen and pulled out a beer. Choking almost instantly as his eyes found another familiar blonde. He had almost forgotten Ludwig was attending the party. While he was well aware that his brother was now actively pursuing Feliciano—unconsciously at the very least—he had still been ill prepared to see his brother dancing. Not awkwardly as his social ineptness warranted. Not even clumsily as his lack of partying would suggest. No, Ludwig was following Feliciano's movements perfectly. Maybe that was the reason behind how firmly Ludwig pressed himself to Feliciano. Gilbert cheered for them mentally. Hopefully his stupid baby brother would actually start something tonight with the cute Italian.

"Are you seeing what I'm seeing?" Antonio smiled in shocked approval.

"I'll have you know that I did teach my baby brother how to dance." Gilbert immediately defended. Knowing that he was not the only one who believed Ludwig to be incapable of the movements.

"Not that, mon ami." Francis chuckled. "Seems like our little piece of Italy has found himself a German stud."

"You say it like they weren't already together."

"Well, it was about time West did something about it."

"Precisely!" Francis held out a beer bottle to his friends. "I bet they'll wake up together tomorrow."

"No way! Gil's brother is way too uptight for that! I say they go on a date first."

"Bet they'll kiss," Gilbert snickered and clang his bottle against his friends'. "Now we just have to find our own dance partners."

Antonio smirked. "I've already got one."

"No way." Both Gilbert and Francis gaped at their friend. "The party hasn't even been going for an hour yet!"

Antonio refused to answer. He just shrugged, downed his beer, and made his way outside.

"What the hell?" Gilbert laughed. "I think he's going to be the winner this semester."

"Oh, hell no," Francis huffed. "I'm the most charming of this group! I have to find someone, quick!"

"Arthur's over with Alfred."

Francis gave his friend a glare. "You know Arthur and I will never hook up, right?"

"Only cause you love him too much to—oof!"

Gilbert was silenced as Francis rushed to slap a hand over his mouth. Red staining his entire face. "Enough with your delusions, Gilbert! I think you've had too much." Gilbert only glared at him. They both knew he could drink an entire keg on his own and still be decently coherent. "Anyways, I'm going to go find myself a little friend. You should too if you don't want to lose this semester."

"Nah. I'm pretty sure Toni's got this semester down. I think I'll just enjoy the beer." Francis only rolled his eyes in response and left Gilbert alone in the kitchen. Taking another sip from his bottle, Gilbert turned his attention back to the living room. Quickly finding Alfred again.

He still had an arm around María's shoulders. Laughing and talking with Arthur. With Arthur?! The Brit was actually enjoying himself. Maybe he already had a few drinks in him. A new person joined them. One Gilbert recognized as the only other friend his baby brother had. Kiku was a relatively quiet person who Gilbert found boring on many occasions, but he had a rather brutal side to him. The kid was observant and very cynical. The type who could threaten with a sweet smile. The fact he had a baby face only helped make his threat all the more disturbing. So, Gilbert decided he actually did enjoy Kiku's presence. So long as they had other people around as well.

He was beginning to make his way over to his friends when a rather shy girl approached him for a dance. It was obvious that her friends had talked her into doing so, and the blush staining her cheeks was proof enough that she was at least interested in Gilbert. So, he agreed and followed her to the floor. He might not earn any big points by fooling around like Francis and Antonio, but that never stopped Gilbert from enjoying his time anyways. After a few songs, Gilbert excused himself to get more beer. He was halfway to the kitchen when he heard a commotion.

Out toward the back corner of the room stood a large man Gilbert recognized immediately. Looking down at a rather pissed María and a rather panicked Matthew. Ivan Braginsky.

"He said no, cabrón." María, standing at only five-foot-four, growled as she stood between Matthew and the behemoth named Ivan.

"Privet, María." Ivan greeted her as though he had only then noticed her.

Sensing the violent tension between the two, Matthew rushed to calm his friend. "It's fine, María."

"It's not fine, Mattie." She gaped at him. "No means no. No matter the fucking gender." She then turned her attention back to Ivan. Eyes glaring and sparking with murderous intent. "So, fuck off already."

Ivan had opened his mouth. María could only assume it was to try and coerce Matthew into leaving with him. Fortunately, Gilbert had heard the commotion and was now close enough to intervene. "Is everything alright here?"

"Gil!" She beamed. "Gracias a Dios, you're here! This fucker was trying to force Mattie to go with him. Despite being rejected already. Numerous times."

"He is just shy, no?" Ivan continued to smile. A smile that sort of made Gilbert feel strange.

"Sounds to me like you were already given an answer." Gil took a step between Ivan and María. "I suggest you get going now."

Ivan eyed the albino. While significantly smaller than him, Gilbert still had a very large build. One that was built from years of intense physical training. Ivan was still confident he could take the man down easily. However, he also knew how violent María could get. She would immediately jump in to help Gilbert, and Ivan knew that his chances of winning would diminish severely then.

"Da, I understand. I will take my leave then." Ivan excused himself with a small wave. His eyes never leaving Mattie. "I will be seeing you, da, Matvey?"

"Sure, Ivan." Mattie shivered.

When the brute was out of earshot, María spun to look at her friend. "Matthew Williams. I swear you are the biggest idiot right after Alfred. This is your house, why didn't you kick him out?"

"Are you kidding? The real question is why aren't you scared? Braginsky is a psychopath! Their entire family is involved with one violent act or another!"

Most, if not all of those had actually been Ivan's psycho sister, but Gilbert was not about to jump in and clear Ivan's name. If he really was insistent enough to cause a scene, then it was safer for Matthew to believe the rumors and keep his distance. Instead, he asked, "you two okay now? Want me to stick around?"

"We don't mean to bother—" Matthew began.

"—that would be fantástico, Gil!" María finished.

Gil laughed at Matthew's awkward stance. It was obvious that the polite kid thought he was bothering him. "Sure thing. Was actually wanting to dance with a cute guy." He winked at Mattie, who immediately burned red.

María laughed and elbowed her friend. "I think Matt's more than happy to oblige. Right, Mattie?"

"S-Sure."

The three moved closer to the crowd but remained in their little corner. Gilbert had initially intended to keep a distance from the two. Despite his flirtatious remark earlier, Gilbert was still not entirely comfortable with Mattie yet, and he had no intention of hearing Antonio rant about his "betrayal" at having touched his precious cousin. He had seen what Toni was capable of when he thought his cousin was being taken advantage of. Yeah, it was definitely best he keep away. So, how the fuck did he end up sandwiched between them? Great, now he was too sober to ignore the friction but still under the influence enough that moving away was simply no longer a thought.

"Mattie!" Alfred hollered as he came crashing into his twin. Already well beyond tipsy.

"Al!" This came out shocked before Matthew shifted his voice to a gentle chuckle. "Hey, buddy. You doing okay?"

The three chuckled as Alfred all but hung onto Matthew for support.

"I'm great." Alfred laughed with them. Unaware they were actually laughing at him. "I saw Ivan earlier so I came to check on you."

"Oh." Gilbert noticed the instant reaction from Matthew. So, this was a recurring thing, then. "I'm fine. Gil and María helped, actually."

"Awesome! Thanks guys!" Al pulled them into a hug before letting go of Gilbert. His arm still wrapped tightly around María's waist.

When Alfred refused to let go after she tried to pull him off, and instead started to nuzzle her hair, María sighed and turned to Matthew and Gilbert. "He's absolutely trashed. I'm taking him upstairs. I'll see you later, Matt. Thanks for the help earlier Gil."

"Night." They both said in unison as María slipped past everyone. Her face tense but bright red at all the nonsense Alfred was whispering in her ear. More like screaming, but that was the music's fault. Actually, the music was the only reason she kept from shoving him away. It helped drown out enough of Alfred's voice to not be heard by others.

"Are they together?"

"I don't think so." Matthew pondered. "Not officially, I guess. I've seen her walk out of Al's room a couple times before, though." He flinched at Gilbert's intense gaze. The man looked close to growling. "Oh, maple! Gil, is she your girlfriend?"

"Do I look mad?" Gilbert arched a brow. "Toni would feed me to his dogs if I tried anything with his cousin."

"Oh, then, why are you so angry?"

"What?" Gilbert forced himself to relax. "Shit, sorry. I've known her since she was a kid. Guess I can also be a bit protective of her, and I don't really like the idea of her stuck in some weak commitment bullshit like that."

"That's sweet." Matthew smiled and Gilbert was once again frozen in place.

Gilbert had seen Matthew plenty of times. He was good friends with his twin, after all, and they had a class together. It was hard to ignore him, especially with such a loud brother who did his best to call attention on him. Still, Gilbert now realized he rarely paid enough attention to the kid. Always too focused on causing trouble with his friends. How on Earth had he missed how stunning Matthew was this entire time? That sweet and genuine smile of his was spreading a warmth inside Gilbert that he had no idea what to do with. Gil had never experienced anything like this before. He caught himself staring and cleared his throat. Using the change in music as an excuse, he extended a hand to the blonde. "Care to dance?"

It was a slow song. A stark difference to the faster tempos that Alfred called his "hoe songs". He had insisted they add slow songs toward the end of the playlist to indicate the end of the party. Matthew usually sat these songs out. Anyone already in a relationship would make their way back to each other during these songs, and anyone interested in someone else would try and score a dance with them. Matthew had a few offers, but they usually came from people too buzzed to notice the difference between he and Alfred. Gilbert, however, seemed sober and knew exactly who he was talking to. Even so, Matthew looked at the offered hand with slight apprehension. Gilbert was about to pull away when Matthew took it with a slight smile. "Sure."

Pleasantly surprised by Matthew taking the lead, Gilbert easily followed him. Matthew taking the offered hand and moving it behind himself to place it on his lower back. Letting Gilbert know it was okay to touch him. He then snaked his hands up the albino's arms and wrapped them around his neck. Pulling them close before he began to swing his hips to the music.

Up close, Gilbert noticed the smaller details in his dance partner. Like the stray strand of hair on Mattie's head that curled in front of him. The pinkish tinge to his otherwise milky complexion. The swollen bottom lip, no doubt due to the boy's habit of chewing on it every time he had to consider something. His pink lips now glossy. No, wait. That was probably lip gloss that Feli put on. The brunette loved makeup and had mentioned that gloss was for everyone. It made lips look more enticing. Gilbert flustered at the memory. Matthew's lips looked intoxicating.

Matthew noticed Gilbert looking at his lips and gasped lightly. The motion causing Gilbert to lick his own lips before looking back up at his eyes. The intensity behind those crimson orbs had Matthew melting before the man had even touched him. The space between them grew too heated as Gilbert silently asked for permission. Mind too blank to remember what Francis had told him was proper protocol for such situations, Matthew simply pulled Gilbert in. Crashing their mouths together.

Gilbert slid one of his hands up Matthew's back. Placing it behind Matthew's head and causing the younger guy to shiver. When he pulled on the blonde locks, Gilbert was rewarded with a small noise from Matthew. His mouth opening slightly. Enough for Gilbert to introduce his tongue and wreck the guy with an other-worldly kiss.

"Get a room!" A familiar voiced called out.

Matthew jumped and hid his face in the crook of Gilbert's neck. Gilbert, annoyed at the interruption, growled at his friend and flipped Antonio off. He waited until Antonio left, laughing the entire time, to try and pull Matthew off him. When the other refused to move, Gilbert sighed and moved to talk in his ear. Not really wanting to scream over the music just to be heard. "Sorry about that. Do you, maybe, want to take this somewhere else?" Again, Matthew had said nothing. As Gilbert realized that the kid was not moving, he bit his lip. "If you want to stop, we can. Can go back to dancing or," but he never got the chance to finish his sentence. Matthew had simply taken charge of the situation again, grabbed Gilbert's hand, and moved them through the crowd. No doubt to his room.

When the door opened, Gilbert had assumed they were headed to the bed. Instead, he found himself pulled in as Matthew's back slammed the door shut. His hands gripping onto Gilbert's shirt as he pulled the older man into another heated kiss.

A myriad of emotions filled Gilbert as he noticed a few things. First, Matthew was far from quiet. The music had truly been loud enough to drown out the noises he made while they kissed. Which meant that Matthew had been really loud with that one sound Gilbert managed to hear when he pulled on his hair. Interesting. The sounds were easy enough to decipher as well. Matthew growled when things got too passive and would let out high-pitched gasps and whimpers any time he approved of Gilbert's movements.

Gilbert had also noticed Matthew was anything but a passive participant. It took Gilbert less than a minute to realize that he had no control of the situation. Matthew had taken the lead and was working on exploring every inch of Gilbert's body. Growling slightly at the amount of clothes still in the way, but doing nothing about it. Had even stopped Gilbert from removing any clothes, and yet his hands seemed to be unable to stay put for more than a second as he traced Gilbert's body. Even their kiss was an aggressive battle for dominance. To which Gilbert was surprised he was slowly losing.

After what seemed like an eternity at the door, Matthew pushed Gilbert until he fell back on the bed. The unyielding violet gaze made Gilbert unsure if it was safe to move. So, he sat still. This seemed to please Matthew as his lips twitched upward in a crooked grin. "Let's get a few things clear. I'm not going to let you fuck me, Gil." Gilbert flinched when Matthew doubled over to meet him face to face. One hand resting to his side while the other poked his chest. "You're hot, I'll give you that, but I'm not about to have drunken sex with a guy who only knows I exist because Alfred sometimes mentions me. So, we can continue to make out, or you can leave." He stood up at this. Challenging Gilbert. "Your call, Beilschmidt."

Never had he cursed his reputation more than now. The way Matthew said his last name told Gilbert everything. Mattie knew exactly what kind of game he played. Had heard of all the heartbreaks he had caused just to add to a tally that really only mattered to the trio, and he was not impressed. Looks like Ludwig had been right after all. His game had just come back to bite him in the ass. All he could do now was accept the conditions. With a small, apologetic smirk, he added, "guess I'll have to get to know you then."

"I won't let you forget." Matthew smirked and let the other kiss him. Moving to straddle him and remind Gilbert just who called the shots right now.