Originally Published: July 15, 2021
Last Edited: September 1, 2021
A/N: Thank you all for the reviews, follows, and favorites! I hope you all enjoy the chapter!
Chapter 24
Change of Plans
Thursday, October 3, 1918
A gentle rapping tugged Roy from sleep. Inhaling deeply through his nose, he caught the lavender scent of Riza's shampoo. He tightened his arms around her waist, burying his face into her hair. Groaning, he became aware of his morning wood throbbing needily against her ass.
He squeezed his eyes tighter, wishing he would just go back to sleep. Clearly Riza still was and he didn't want to deal with the day just yet. Releasing some tension with an exhale, he settled into doing just that, breathing lightly against her neck.
Sleep tugged at him and he willingly followed its summons, drifting back to dreams.
"Roy-Boy, Riza dear, you need to wake up," Chris's voice was surprisingly gentle, pulling him uncomfortably back to consciousness.
Groaning, he clung to Riza tighter, lifting his head and groggily opening his eyes. Gray morning light streamed through the closed curtains, illuminating Chris standing next to Riza's side of the bed, wearing her nightgown and bathrobe and resting a hand on the mattress for support.
"Mmm, Chris?" he mumbled. Blinking, he suddenly became very aware of two problems: one was his still remaining erection, the other was that both he and Riza were completely naked. "Chris! What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded, pushing himself up onto an elbow, pulling the covers higher and hiding Riza's bare breasts.
Riza moaned, shifting slightly before she tensed. Her hand flew under her pillow and she froze, breath hitching.
"Don't take that tone with me, Roy-Boy. I knocked," she snapped at him. Turning to Riza, her voice gentled significantly, "Riza dear, you need to go. I'm not sure who's coming over today, but she's supposed to be here in fifteen minutes."
Riza instantly rolled out of bed, having no shame with Chris in the room despite her nudity. She turned back to the bed, her expression anxious as she dug through the sheets for her clothes. "Roy, where are my…" she cut off as she snatched her panties, stepping into them quickly before turning her pajama bottoms right side out.
Roy sat up, bunching bedding over his crotch as he glanced at Chris. She'd stepped back to be out of the way, but her eyes were on Riza's exposed back, a mix between wariness and sickened fascination on her face.
"We're up. Could you step out now?" Roy growled protectively, feeling immobilized by his damn cock. Riza may be shameless around Chris, but he sure as hell wasn't letting his aunt see his adult ass body with a fucking erection.
Chris glanced his way, eyes scanning him as she scoffed, "What, you've got morning wood? I've seen it before, Roy. I've seen yours before. Don't think I was above changing and bathing my baby nephew."
"Chris!" he protested, face heating.
Chris chuckled, the sound mixing with a cough as she began wheezing. Riza abandoned her shirt on the bed, only wearing her pajama bottoms as she crossed over to her, looking concerned. "Ms. Mustang, please sit down. I'm so sorry you had to come in here and wake us up. You should be resting."
Roy watched with growing concern as Riza ushered Chris to the bed, guiding her to sit down. Chris waved her off as she tried to urge her to lay down, "No- it takes a lot- of energy to sit back up. I'll go back to my bed- in a minute," she struggled.
Any reservation for privacy he had left fled, worry replacing it. He scooted over and rubbed her arms comfortingly. "You can lean against me, Chrissy. Just relax."
Chris trembled again with a chuckle, covering her mouth with a fist. "I haven't had- a naked, muscular- man touch me- in close to twenty years!"
Roy cringed as Riza broke out with her own bright laughter. "Chris! He's taken!" she grinned, grabbing her shirt and shrugging it on.
"And that's incest. Ugh!" Roy shuddered, guiding Chris to lean against his chest.
Chris relaxed against him, her cough easing to a rasp with every breath. "Don't worry, I'm not interested," she reassured, reaching back and patting Roy's cheek.
He sighed, squeezing her arms comfortingly as Riza finished buttoning up her shirt. "I've got to go," she murmured, a sadness behind her eyes. She leaned over them, meeting Roy's lips with a warm kiss before pulling back, pecking Chris's cheek affectionately.
"Hmm, I get attention too," Chris smiled, snatching Riza's hand and squeezing it. "Be safe, dear."
Riza smiled weakly before pulling back. "See you at work, Sir," she offered, rounding the bed and slipping out.
His heart chased after her, looking back to see her disappear, but his responsibility stayed with Chris. Sighing, he turned his attention back to her, rubbing her arms again. "How are you feeling? Do you want help getting back to your bed?"
"I didn't realize it was that big," she whispered reverently, "Her tattoo and- and scar." She tilted her head back, navy eyes meeting his. "You really do love her, don't you."
"I thought you already knew that," he whispered, the front door downstairs opening and closing as she left.
"I did, but it just re-impressed the depth of that love, I suppose." She lifted her hand again, tracing his jaw lightly with her fingertips. "She sounded happy last night. So did you."
His face heated as he realized she'd heard them. Not surprising as they hadn't exactly been quiet after getting started. Pushing past the embarrassment, he nodded. "Yeah, we struggled getting any alone time at work. It was- really needed. Sorry we woke you up, I hope we weren't too loud."
She shook her head, her breath losing its rasp as she relaxed more. "I don't give a damn how loud or long you were fucking. It was a bit entertaining. Forgive me, I peaked in on you."
He started, tensing. "What!"
"Riza caught me. If she didn't say anything, I expect she forgave me. Right after I closed the door, she asked to get on top."
Groaning, he covered his face with his palm, "Please stop, Chrissy."
"Alright, alright," she smiled, "I just- wanted to make sure it was her, not someone else."
He frowned, lowering his hand. "You really think I'd cheat on her?" If she thought that, then surely it would be plaguing Riza too.
She paused for a long moment before shaking her head. "No. Not at all. But you should take her out this weekend. Dinner and dancing or something like that. I'll get the girls to stay with me overnight if you'd like to book a hotel."
"I've thought about it- but we can't be seen together in public," he sighed heavily, shifting as his erection blessedly began to relax.
"Hmm- I have an idea. Let me handle it, alright?" She patted his cheek again, smiling warmly.
"Alright. Are you feeling up to moving? I can help you."
"No, get your naked ass in the shower or go workout again like you did the other day. I'll be fine." She groaned as she tried to sit up, quickly falling back against him as she coughed weakly.
"Okay, take a second and I'll help you," he reassured, adjusting behind her.
She huffed, "Fucking lung. You know I'd kill for a cigarette right now. But it'd just make it worse," she grumbled.
He squeezed her shoulders reassuringly, "Six weeks without, you might as well try to quit. I'd like my babies to know you."
"Babies!" she barked, pressing a hand to her wound. "You're deluding yourself if you think Riza's ready for children."
He grimaced, his heart aching, "I know."
Luckily for Riza, her period had started again, and he had to put his silent grief aside. Hopefully the time would come, but not right now.
"You're not going to wear a push up bra for the wedding?" Rebecca asked, wrapping her arms around Riza's waist, pulling the tape measure around and getting the measurement.
"The only bra I own with a wire in it is the one Roy took from me," Riza shrugged.
Rebecca tisked, writing the measurement down before shimmying the tape up to the band of her bra. She smirked as she eyed the hickey on her neck- again. "We need to get you back to the store. Get you more love bites all over."
"Rebecca," she scolded. Becca snickered, writing her bust measurement down quickly before dropping down to her hips, adjusting the tape with a critical eye.
"Do you know anything about the dress?"
"No- other than it will be lavender," Riza answered.
"Alright. From waist to knee…" she took the measurement, dropping the tape to hang loose. "And to floor… And waist to shoulders… And let's get shoulder width, too." Riza sighed, trying to be patient. "Neck to wrist, and to elbow, and that should be plenty!"
"Thank God. I'm going to get dressed before Havoc shows up," Riza sighed, snatching her measurement from Rebecca. She moved to her room, closing the door behind her.
"You're welcome!" Rebecca sang from the other room, right as a knock came at the door. Rebecca squeaked excitedly, leaving Riza grateful they'd finished when they did.
She grabbed the prepared envelope from the bed, Hayate sleepily looking up at her. "Hey boy," she greeted gently, scratching behind his ears. She then slipped the paper with measurements into the envelope with her letter to Winry. Licking the seal, she closed it carefully.
"Hey, Hawkeye!" Jean called from the other room. "I left something for you on the bar."
"Alright. Have fun," she replied, moving into the bathroom and stripping her panties and bra off. She cracked the glass door of the shower open, running the water and testing the temperature. Once it reached a comfortable level, she stepped in, sighing as it soaked her hair and skin.
She took her sweet time, wanting to avoid hearing their love fest in the other room. She could only manage so long before her lip twitched, beginning to worry about how much water she was using and the mentally climbing water bill in her head.
Shutting it off, she climbed out, drying herself before finding a clean pair of underwear and dressing in her pajamas. She paused before pulling the shirt on, lifting it to her nose. Sniffing, she was disappointed to find Roy's scent hadn't clung to it last night.
Sighing, she slipped it on anyway, wrapping her hair in her towel as she snatched the letter to Winry again. She also grabbed a Glock, now ready to drop the letter off in the mailbox.
Hesitating, she poked her head out of her room. The kitchen light and Rebecca's were the only ones left on, a parcel on the bar waiting for her. There was a soft giggling from Rebecca's closed door, but it was muffled enough Riza didn't feel too uncomfortable. Moving over, she paused at the sight of Roy's familiar print on the top of the parcel: For Elizabeth, embellished with a little heart. Chuckling, she set the letter to Winry aside, peeling the package tape open. A flimsy paper box was inside, tissue paper padding the scarlet, beaded bra resting on top.
Her cheeks heated at the sight as she pulled it out, holding it up to look at. The beading formed a floral design across the lower cups, the top fringed with lace. Checking the tag, she smirked at seeing it was the right size. There was a matching pair of panties underneath, lacking the beads, but having the same accent of lace.
From Rebecca's room, she thought she heard a muffled moan. Shaking her head, she pulled the panties out too, surprised to find a brunette wig and a pair of glasses underneath. She picked them up, absently putting the cat-eye frames on as she checked under the wig for anything else.
Finally, an envelope. She broke the seal, slipping out the stationary inside and creasing it open.
My dearest Love,
I'm so glad to hear you're coming from Central on Saturday! I'd be glad to pick you up from the train station and will be there by 10:00. Don't worry about Madame Christmas, the girls are eager to stay with her so I can help you enjoy your visit. I booked us a hotel room so we can have some privacy this weekend. I'm excited to spend the time with you, my radiant Queen.
With all my love, Roy.
P.S. Please don't feel obligated to wear the lace. It's meant to be a gift, not an expectation.
"What are you planning?" she hummed, folding the stationary and tapping it absently on the counter.
Well- she had a date. Or rather, Elizabeth did.
Saturday, October 5, 1918
Roy stepped out of his car, a light drizzle falling onto his open umbrella. Closing the door, he tugged his vest flat. Adjusting his tie, he climbed up the stairs, crossing over to the station's open gate. Under the protection of the roof, he closed the umbrella, stopping on the platform before reaching the section open to the sky again.
A train had arrived shortly before and the station was packed with more bodies than usual. The hope was she could slip into the crowd and anyone who saw her would think she was just another passenger, arriving from out of town. He wasn't able to scan across the crowd as easily as a taller person might, but he also hoped he wouldn't recognize Riza at a glance. Odd for a lover picking up his woman from the train, but that was the goal. He focused on brunettes and glasses, but none of them had her keen, chestnut eyes. None had her gait, nor her face.
Had she been unable to make it? He pulled out his pocket watch, frowning as the hands and markings came back blurry. He reached into his pocket, pulling out his glasses. Looking back at his watch, his eyes focused this time to show it was five after ten.
"Roy?" He knew her voice, but looking up, he could hardly make out Riza under her disguise.
She wore a veiled, olive green, knit cloche over her brunette wig. The hair of the wig was curled softly, the gentle waves framing her face. The netting of her veil went to the tip of her nose, mystifying her make-up accented features. She wore a silky, high collared blouse, matching the olive green of her hat. The bow at her neck hid her hickey from the other night, the short sleeves fluttering as bodies passed them by. Her blouse was tucked into her tweed pencil skirt, a modest pair of two inch heels on her feet with a cute little buckle strap around her ankles. Her hands were clasping a khaki bag that could pass as a large purse or a day bag. A light purple jacket was draped over the bag between the two handles.
Her glossy, pink lips drew his attention, slightly parted as if begging to be kissed.
"Elizabeth!" he clicked his watch closed, sliding it into his vest pocket. She hadn't chosen to wear the glasses he'd provided, but this was perfect. He wouldn't have even glanced at her twice. "My, you dolled up today. Did you do that for me?" he teased with a smirk, offering his elbow to her.
"Knowing your ego, I best not answer that," she smiled, accepting his elbow, her fingers pleasantly curling around his forearm.
"May I hold your bag, my lady?" he offered.
"No, thank you," she returned instantly, her other arm casually holding it on her shoulder. He glanced over her, calculating her response. Of course, she'd always run independent, but with how snug that pencil skirt was on her, he could imagine a thigh holster wouldn't be easily worn under it, so she must have a pistol or two in her bag.
He nodded, letting his free hand shift from offering to take the bag, up to her chin. She blinked in surprise as he leaned in, pressing a chaste kiss to those ridiculously tempting lips of hers. The gloss made them smoother than usual and they tasted slightly of raspberries. Maybe he just imagined it because the pink was about the same color.
He pulled away, meeting her eyes again as he thumbed her chin. Her hazel eyes held a hint of surprise, her lips parted slightly. "Sir?"
"I've always wanted to do that," he whispered, "Did you have raspberries on the train?"
The edge of her mouth quirked upward as she tilted her head slightly. "Yes," she answered carefully.
He hummed softly, "That explains it." He leaned in again, kissing her slowly, their mouths open but tongues parted. She inhaled sharply, moving to the balls of her feet as she pressed into the kiss, moaning softly against him.
His length stirred with the sound and he had to pull back, heart thudding loudly against his ribs. This was a date, not a fuck session, and he had a long day until he'd be alone with her. He forced a smile, meeting her prettily dolled up eyes as he shifted his umbrella, opening it again and holding it over them. "Well, shall we?"
She chuckled lightly at the back of her throat, squeezing his arm comfortably. "Of course, Roy. I am curious what you have planned for me. I'm sorry the weather didn't cooperate, though."
"We should be fine. As long as we can find somewhere dry for our picnic."
"Another picnic?" she teased as they turned, departing the station and heading to his car. "I put in all this effort to be unrecognizable and we're having a picnic? We can have picnics at home."
"Well, I have dinner reservations planned, and tickets to a play, and…"
She laughed warmly, "That's three dates right there."
"Well, Elizabeth, I don't see you very often." She ducked her head, Roy catching sight of the edge of her smile. Pride swelled up in his chest, a happy little bubble making his steps almost float across the cobbles.
Her attention shifted, her hand falling down to his wrist, toying with the cufflink there. "You're- wearing them."
"I promised you I would. I've worn them all week."
"Oh- your uniform must hide them." Her cheeks were turning pink.
His eyes shifted to her earlobe as they reached his car. "I see you're wearing mine," he commented, moving a hand to tuck her faux hair behind her ear. A hint of blonde caught his eye and he quickly shifted her hair back as it was before.
"I always wear them," she replied, meeting his eyes, an intensity behind her gaze.
He nodded, "Yes. You do," he agreed, opening the door for her. She accepted his hand, letting him help her sit down and close her door. Heart racing, the next topic hung on the tip of his tongue as he rounded the car, climbing in and closing his umbrella. Facing the windshield, he pulled out his keys, fumbling nervously for the ignition. "Speaking of jewelry, do you happen to know your ring size?" The engine turned and his question was met by only its hum. Swallowing, he turned to look at her, her eyes wide in surprise.
"My- ring size?"
He reached over her lap, gently taking her left hand with both of his and rubbing her bare ring finger with his thumbs. "This one," he whispered, holding her eyes. "I figured there's no point sneaking around about it since you already said yes. Granted, I'm not going to show it to you until I actually propose, but…"
"I don't know it," she shook her head, squeezing his hands.
"Do you mind if we go get you sized?"
She parted her lips, looking down at their entwined hands. "Roy- maybe…"
"It'll take five minutes at any jewelers we visit. I have to resize my ring too."
"You- already have the rings?" she asked, baffled as she looked up again.
He inhaled through parted lips, cursing himself silently. He didn't want her to know ahead of time, but he'd sort of stepped into this pile of shit himself. "They're my parents' rings."
"Oh…" she uttered, her brows softly furrowing. "Oh," she repeated, dropping her eyes.
"I mean- unless you want your own ring," he rushed, panicking with the possibility that she didn't like the idea.
"That's not it. I guess- I'm just surprised you already have rings picked out. I mean- I haven't thought about it at all. What else do you have planned?" she chuckled nervously.
"Well, Alex offered to officiate. I like the idea, but I warned him if Grumman wants to do it, he has first claim to it."
Riza's eyes widened, a breathy, "Oh," leaving her as her hand began to tremble in his.
Blinking, he turned to her properly, shifting his grip to her forearms, rubbing her soft skin comfortingly. "Hey. I'm sorry, I didn't think how upsetting this could be. I've just wanted it for so long and both the rings and Alex's offer sort of just dropped in my lap. We can drop it, I won't talk about it again until you bring it up- when you're ready."
She cringed slightly, avoiding his eyes. "I don't see the point in making any plans. I mean, we can't even legally marry."
"I am so sorry, Ri. I just wanted the rings as a tangible reminder of our dedication to each other. I didn't intend to plan the whole wedding."
She was quiet for a long moment, staring troubled at the dashboard, avoiding his gaze. "Roy- now might be a bad time to get my ring size."
"Okay. Then we won't," he rushed, desperate to appease her.
"I'm not done," she interjected, meeting his eyes. She was trembling again, her face pale and unsettled. "You know- how my period stopped- last week when we made love on the couch."
"Yeah," he nodded weakly.
Her mouth twitched, her eyes tearing up. "It never came back," she confessed, voice cracking. "I didn't want to tell you until I was living with you again and more time had passed, but I- I can't keep it to myself anymore."
Roy Mustang may never once have a period in his life, but the amount of women he'd grown up with had ensured he had a proper understanding of them. From a- medical perspective at least. A two day period was highly unusual. And he knew Riza- his Riza.
She was scared shitless.
Inhaling through his lips, his mind cranked to catch up, coming up with ideas hastily. "Do you want to talk to a Doctor, or just have emotional support right now?"
"It's a little too soon to talk to a Doctor," she determined, voice trembling.
"Okay. We're going to get on a train. Would you like to sit here and compose yourself while I buy the tickets, or do you want to come with me?"
A tear finally escaped her eyelashes, running down her cheek. He hastily brushed it away with the pad of his thumb. "Where are we going?"
He exhaled before answering, "To Central."
Her disguise afforded a luxury Roy hadn't anticipated (well, he had, but he hadn't expected to use it so much): for the entire four and a half hour ride, she stayed curled up to his side, his arm wrapped around her and holding her close. They were rather sober and quiet for the first hour and a half, but when the train host had offered to serve them lunch, Roy had taken delight in feeding her. She blushed so prettily with the attention and he reveled in the amount of PDA he could indulge in.
During a lunch of grapes, celery, and sandwiches, she'd cheered up a bit- smiling as the train paused at Risembool station. She looked out the window eagerly to see if there was a glimpse of the Elrics or Miss Rockbell, but as they lived a good half hour away from the station, her search came back in vain.
Another half hour later, she grew grim as the train pulled to a stop at the Harsten station. Her chestnut eyes stared out at the stage of their childhood, her lips tugging in a frown.
"Would you like to stop?" he asked. "There'll be another train in two hours."
"No," she answered icily, looking down at their entwined hands. "I'll stop by in May. Besides, I don't have any flowers or poetry."
He grimaced, squeezing her hand as he leaned in, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Alright."
The rest of the ride was more pleasant, the rain left behind them as the afternoon sun glowed on the golden, orange, and red leaves. Riza's attention was glued out of the window, a pleasant smile on her mouth as they snuggled, appreciating the beauty of autumn.
About an hour out of Central, she broke their happy silence with a confession, "I like the idea of using your parents' rings. From what you've told me, they would have had a long and happy marriage."
He hummed, squeezing her hand. Standing up, he pulled his suitcase from the rack, setting it on the empty seat facing theirs. "Close your eyes."
She looked at him, skeptical. "Why?"
"I want to check something," he shrugged, unlatching the case.
She snorted, "Okay, fine." She closed her eyes, her usually fair eyelashes darkened by mascara.
He smirked, slipping his hand into an inner pocket and pulling out a blue velvet jewelry box. Sitting down again, he carefully opened it. His mother's ring gleamed back at him, the oval opal center stone decorated by smaller diamonds around the gem and along the profile half of the white gold band.
The wedding band had been welded to the engagement ring, and he needed to either separate them, or order a second wedding band to mirror the first.
He checked that her eyes were closed before gently taking her left hand, slipping the ring on. She gasped and he froze, making sure her eyes stayed closed. He wiggled the ring to her second knuckle, but didn't dare force it down further.
"Alright, you can feel it, but don't you dare peek," he warned teasingly.
She laughed lightly, rolling the ring on her knuckle and thumbing the opal and diamonds. "It's bigger than I expected. I wouldn't want to wear it while shooting."
He guided her thumb to the wedding band. "What if it was just this part? This is the wedding band, and I was thinking about duplicating it for you."
She felt at it, humming softly. "I'd be worried about losing a gem."
"There's ring insurance for that," he reassured.
She smiled. "That would be fine. I could wear that for every day and the proper ring for formal events."
He smirked, "As First Lady, there'll be plenty of those."
"Har har," she shot back as he glided the ring off, quickly tucking it back into its box then its pocket in his suitcase again.
When they finally pulled into Central, Roy guided her off the train and across the platform, their hands entwined and a smile constantly on his face. On the edge of the sidewalk, they waved down a taxi and Roy gave the address without pause. Riza frowned as he said it, his eyes meeting hers as the driver pulled away from the curb.
"We're visiting Gracia?" she asked.
He settled next to her, rubbing her knuckles comfortingly. "You said we could tell her."
"But- we're dropping in without calling ahead. I'd hate to impose."
"Elizabeth," he interjected, keeping his tone warm. "She'll be glad to see us. I know it."
Roy paid the cab driver and a tip besides before climbing out with her, golden leaves strewn across the stairs up to the apartment building. Once inside, they made their way to the second floor, their steps moving to the familiar door at the front of the hall.
"Remember, Elicia can't know," Riza whispered, half stepping behind him as they stopped in front of the door.
He nodded, squaring his shoulders and catching hold of her hand. Setting his suitcase by his feet, he knocked boldly on the door, nerves making his stomach clench as they waited for a reply.
"Maybe they're not home?" Riza whispered after a long moment, clinging to him.
Picking up his case, disappointment began settling in before the lock on the door clicked, the handle twisting. Gracia opened the door, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as she looked up at him. "Roy?" A soft smile broke across her face as she glanced briefly at Riza, quickly dismissing her. "What brings you all the way here?"
"I've not been the best support I should have been and I thought I could try to do better. Is Elicia here?"
She opened the door wider, her skirt and blouse slightly wrinkled. "No, she's at a friend's this afternoon. Sorry for the wait, I was taking a nap."
"I'm sorry for interrupting. We can come back later," he rushed, squeezing Riza's hand nervously.
"No! Please, come in," Gracia insisted, stepping back. Riza glanced at him as he led the way inside, drawing Gracia's attention to her again. "I'm sorry, I should introduce myself. I'm Gracia Hughes," Gracia offered warmly to Riza, holding out her hand.
"If we could chat privately, I can introduce you properly," Roy interjected quickly as Riza pulled her hand from his, smiling politely.
"It's good to see you, Gracia," she offered, taking her extended hand.
Gracia's expression flitted, confusion in her emerald eyes before they widened in shock. She fumbled with the door, closing it hastily before asking, "Riza?"
Riza nodded, smiling weakly.
"Riza?" Roy broke in, wrapping his arm around her shoulders and pulling her close. "Who's Riza? This is my soon-to-be fiancée, Elizabeth!"
"What? Wha… When did this happen? Please, come sit down!" she urged, grabbing Riza's elbow and gently towing them both into the living room. She ushered them onto the couch, Roy slightly disoriented as Riza sat down on his right rather than his left. Gracia flitted towards an armchair, but she hesitated before glancing at them, holding out a finger. "One moment. Get comfortable, I'll start some coffee."
"Oh, Gracia, you don't have- to…," Roy trailed off, halfway rising out of his seat as Gracia disappeared into the kitchen.
Riza gently grabbed his arm, urging him to sit again. "Let her," she whispered as he settled beside her, leaving his suitcase on the floor by his feet.
Turning his attention to her, he pulled his arm around her again, snuggling her against his side. "Ri, I want you to consider talking with Gracia about your concerns," he murmured, rubbing her arm.
"About- my period?"
He nodded, brushing a faux lock of hair out of her face. "She's been pregnant before. She might have some advice." She grimaced, reaching up and taking off her hat and wig. Her blonde hair was staticy, frizzing as it fell loose of its simple twist. Humming softly, he reached up, combing his fingers through her hair. She sighed, relaxing against him as she left the wig and cloche on her arm rest, her eyes growing heavy. "I guess coffee isn't a bad idea after all," Roy whispered. She shook her head, shifting against him and wrapping her arms around him.
They were quiet, listening to the soft clinking of Gracia moving in the other room. Roy's eyes fell to the framed photos on the side table to his left, sobering at the sight of Hughes hugging a much younger Elicia, a bright smile on both of their faces. Another pictured the three of them posed for a family photo. His eyes shifted, following the images along the wall. Elicia aging and Gracia with her, but where most of the frames used to have Maes in the photos, less did these days.
He frowned softly, rubbing Riza's shoulder blades absently, seeking comfort. She silently understood, her hands shifting to his chest as she clung to him. "It's okay," she whispered, lifting her head and drawing his eyes. "They're just trying to heal."
"It's just- their wedding photo is gone," he mourned, glancing at the frame that had used to hold the memory, replaced by Elicia in front of a cake, holding up six fingers with a bright smile on her face.
She brushed his jaw, her fingers dragging across his facial hair. "Gracia misses him, I know it. But she's also lonely. It can't help to have the reminders surrounding her constantly."
He sighed, relaxing back against the armrest of the couch, Riza following him and leaning on his chest. He understood. He had to, but- it was hard to see the changes. "I'd like to visit while we're in town," he murmured, brushing her hair again. "Tell him too."
"I was planning to go by after my nap," Gracia broke in, carrying in a tray with three steaming coffee cups and some cream and sugar. Riza stiffened, quickly pulling back and sitting up. Roy pushed himself up to follow, Gracia's mouth twitching with an apologetic smile. "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you."
Riza glanced away, rubbing the back of her neck. "No, it's fine."
"We're just not used to being around others while being affectionate," Roy provided, gently taking her hand, caressing her skin soothingly.
"I can imagine," Gracia murmured, setting the tray on the coffee table and sitting in an armchair across from them. "So, how long has this been going on? Maes and I always assumed you were still closeting your feelings," she looked up at Roy as she said it, an intelligence in her eyes.
"When we got back from Ishval, her apartment fell through. She's been living with me since," Roy filled in, Riza's hand twitching in his.
"Except now Madame Christmas is there, and although she knows, not all of the girls from the Bar do. I'm staying with Rebecca while they're coming and going."
Gracia hummed, easily preparing Roy's preferred splash of cream and half a scoop of sugar before placing it in front of him. "I'm a bit confused. At the party you were flirting with- what's her name- Vanessa? Riza, you seemed pretty upset by that."
"We've talked it through," Roy rushed, squeezing Riza's hand. "I'm not going to be flirting around anymore."
Riza's shoulders hunched slightly, withdrawing further. Gracia hesitated, eyeing her. "I'm afraid I don't know how you like your coffee," she broached lightly.
"Three sugars and generous on the cream," Roy answered for her.
Riza nodded mutely, her expression uncomfortable. Gracia hesitated, but moved to fix her coffee, "Forgive me, but have I offended you?"
Riza squirmed, face creasing with guilt. "No, I… I'm sorry. I agreed to this, but I wasn't expecting to do this today."
"And that's my bad," Roy offered gently, brushing a frizzy lock behind her ear. "Do you need a moment?"
She nodded, "Would you mind if I borrowed your bathroom?"
"Not at all. It's down that hall, the first door on your left." Riza nodded before swiftly standing and moving there. They both watched her leave, a frown tugging at his lips as he watched her go. "You seem a lot more acclimated to this than she is," Gracia murmured, picking up her own cup and taking a sip.
"She was fine on the train."
"The confidence of being anonymous. She knows me, but doesn't exactly trust me. She's guarded and trying to figure out how much she wants me to be privy to." He met her gaze, swallowing hard with her concise observation. "Something drove you here today, or you would have called ahead."
He sighed, dipping his head and running a hand through his hair. "She… I'm letting her decide if she wants to talk to you about it. I think you can help, but you're right, she doesn't trust very easily."
"From what I've heard she has every right to be guarded. You're also in a very vulnerable position. If the wrong person finds out, you could lose everything you've worked so hard to achieve."
"Not her, though. I won't lose her and that's all that matters to me," he answered, looking up at Gracia again.
Sympathy flooded her face, her gaze gentle. "You sound like Maes. Though, you should ask if it matters to her. She's worked really hard for your goals."
"I…"
It was so obvious. Yes, he knew that it mattered to her- she had dedicated life and limb to helping him reach the Fuhrer's chair. Here he was, more concerned about proving his love for her. He was getting distracted. He was doing the bare minimum to get by so she wouldn't berate him about paperwork or god knows what. He was so focused on their future, but she was worried about his future. Amestris's future. Of course she was worried about him planning the wedding and the engagement rings. Of course she was scared shitless about her period acting strange.
The way the rumor mill had been running for years, if people realized she was pregnant, most of them would assume he was the father. Nevermind that they'd be right.
The door opened behind him, both he and Gracia turning to see Riza walk out. Her hair had been smoothed with water, a few patches more wet than others. She seemed more calm than when she'd disappeared inside, her expression a familiar, stoic mask.
Guilt tangled in his chest, but he wasn't sure an apology would mean anything to her. He hadn't exactly done anything wrong, his mindset had just been in the wrong place.
"Are you feeling better?" Gracia asked, tone light.
Riza paused at the foot of the coffee table, clearly chewing on the question. "Mrs… Gracia," she tried again, relaxing slightly. "Roy brought us here because I told him something this morning. He thinks you might have some insight."
Gracia glanced between them, a keenness to her eyes. "Well, any help I can offer is yours."
"I-" she cut off, her hands trembling. Roy sat up, moving to stand, but she quietly waved him down, taking a smooth breath. "Gracia, I'm worried I might be pregnant."
There was a long pause, Gracia's expression even as she lowered her mug to the table, looking between them. She rubbed her hands together inhaling deeply through her nose. "From the timeline you've given me, you've only been romantic for about three weeks. Is that correct?"
Roy grimacing, regretting how short that length of time really was. He still nodded, Riza doing the same.
"Riza, would you sit down while we talk about this?" Gracia prompted, gesturing to the couch.
She did so, her shoulders tight as she sat on the edge of the cushion next to him. He wanted to hold her and try to comfort her, but he had a distinct impression that she would bristle at any such attempt right now. He redirected his attention to his coffee, picking it up and taking a hasty sip.
Gracia studied them for a long moment, and though her expression was clear, he could only guess what was going through her mind right then. "I take it you have a reason to be worried?"
"There was- one time without protection," Roy conceded, guilt tangling in his chest.
"I- thought my period started the night Chris was shot. I had either heavy spotting or light blood flow for two days and some terrible breast tenderness, which isn't usual for my periods. Then it just- stopped. It was about four days early for my cycle and since I left… Since the Academy, I've been really consistent. I don't know if it had anything to do with losing my virginity- my body could just be adjusting, but- I've waited for it to come back, or my actual period to start, and I- I guess I'm just…"
"You're scared," Gracia filled in gently.
Riza hunched, her breath growing shallow. Desperate to offer some kind of comfort, he tried lightly placing a hand on her shoulder. She initially flinched, but quickly moved towards him, nestling her body against his. He wrapped his arm around her smaller frame, pulling her close.
"It doesn't help that this is happening at the same time Ms. Mustang is having medical issues," Gracia soothed.
Riza gasped, nodding swiftly. "And-" her throat choked on the word. "And Roy didn't even properly climax when…"
Roy's cheeks heated, embarrassed Riza was sharing that detail with his best friend's widow. Gracia seemed unfazed, though, her focus on Riza. "That doesn't always matter, though. And for some couples, it only takes once."
Riza gave a hard sob, a hand clapping to cover her mouth. A few tears fell, landing on her tweed skirt with little thumps. Squeezing her waist, he reached the other hand over, combining through her damp hair.
Gracia shifted, reaching for a box of tissues on a side table and putting it by Riza's coffee. "Here," she whispered. Riza quietly took a few, dabbing at her cheeks.
Silence followed, both of them waiting for Riza to calm down again. Her body trembled against his, little sniffles slowing as her breath evened. Gracia watched them with a heavy sorrow, her legs crossed and hands loosely clasped.
Gracia's eyes met his and he nodded once. "Riza," she broached gently. "I know you're scared. You have every reason to be. Taking out every external factor like your secret relationship and Roy trying to make it to Fuhrer, babies are scary."
Riza sniffed, grabbing a fresh tissue and holding it to her nose.
"That being said- it's too early to know. I- Maes and I had to try for a year and a half. That's why he was so excited when we finally got Elicia. That being said, I- I know the symptoms pretty well. I was constantly on the lookout and-" her voice caught and she reached over to snatch her own tissue. "Excuse me, we were- trying again- when he died…"
Dread settled over Roy, his eyes widening and heart clenching. Gracia took a moment, clearing her throat. "Gracia, I'm so sorry," Roy whispered, tempted to hold her too, but Riza was still nestled against him.
She shook her head quickly, "No. I've decided it would have been harder if I'd had another without him. Elicia has been a handful by herself and I don't want to imagine any younger children having no memory of their father."
"I see," he murmured softly, squeezing Riza comfortingly.
"Enough about that. Riza, I have a few books you can take. One of them lists out common symptoms of pregnancy by the week. The real problem with the first eight weeks is it looks and feels like everything is normal. Maybe a little odd, or like your hormones are changing, but nothing definite."
"But my period…" Riza cut in, straightening in his arms.
"…Could just be changing because you're now sexually active. My cycle changed when I started sleeping with Maes," she shrugged. "The thing is, your period could just be strange because of that- or you could be having implantation bleeding.
"It could be another five or six weeks before you know. Things to look out for are, of course, a regular period, more cramping, breast tenderness, bloating, nausea, and if you are pregnant, you could have morning sickness as soon as two weeks from now.
"If you don't have another period within the next month, that's when I would look for a gynecologist. Though, in your situation, you may be more comfortable with, say, Doctor Knox, or Doctor Marcoh. That's if you want Roy there for the appointments. You could go alone- or I could come with you."
"That's- generous of you to offer," Riza murmured, wilting slightly in his arms.
Gracia tilted her head, giving another sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry you're in this predicament. Not knowing really is the hardest part."
Roy buried his hands in his pants pockets, staring down at the familiar headstone. They'd stopped by a florist on the way and Roy had chosen purple hydrangeas and lilies for his lost friend. He'd splurged and gotten a dozen pink roses for Gracia and a dozen daisies for Elicia. Their mixed bouquet was back in the car. He'd thought about getting a bouquet for Riza, but her troubled expression as she stared off into the distance warned him now wasn't the time.
After coffee, she'd put her wig back on, Gracia helping her fix it. She was back to being Elizabeth, her make up only slightly smudged from crying.
Riza stayed with them for a few moments before beginning to walk around the cemetery, little Amestrian flags and flowers decorating more than one gravestone.
"She'll be alright," Gracia whispered, staying beside him.
"I'm an idiot," he mumbled, shaking his head. "Hey, Hughes. I finally told Riza my feelings. Problem is I forgot to wrap it up the first time we had sex."
Gracia giggled, her expression softening. "If the dead could speak, they'd know way too much."
"Very true."
"Roy…" she broached, watching Riza weave between headstones, "I mentioned this to Riza at the party, but- I can't help but feel like I need your approval. I love Maes. I always will…"
"But you want to start dating again," he nodded, absently rubbing the rough fabric of his ignition glove between his fingers.
She was quiet for a long moment before whispering, "I've tried dating a few men. It feels like cheating."
He looked sideways at her, expression softening. "I understand that. That's how it always felt dating women other than Riza."
Gracia exhaled, her cheeks softening with an embarrassed pink. "But I- hit it off with someone new at your party."
Surprised, he raised his eyebrows. "Oh? Who?" He'd know everyone there and if he could give some insight into her potential suitor, he'd be glad to do so.
"We've had a few long phone calls and she has been surprisingly sweet and understanding of my situation."
Roy nodded, glancing down at Hughes' grave- before it suddenly crashed into him. "Wait. She?" She nodded, eyes dropping. "I-I mean, I'm just surprised. I didn't know you liked women that way."
"I didn't either. I'd never considered it before we spent so much time together at the hospital."
"Wait- at the hospital?" He vaguely remembered Gracia coming along, but he'd been too distressed and distracted. Everyone else there had just been a given. Riza had been there, and that was what had mattered most to him in the chaos of that night. Had it been Vanessa or Madeline? They'd been there, but not the whole night. "Who…?"
"Maria Ross."
He blinked.
"Oh."
"She's really sweet, and- she… I don't know, Roy. I'm really hoping this works out."
"Alright. But- I'm just curious, you aren't bothered that she was suspected of killing Maes?"
"But she didn't. You knew that the same day she was accused and she's been publicly cleared of the murder charges."
"I know, I just- are you sure you want to be with someone else in the Military?"
"Are you opposed?"
"No," he rushed. "I mean, I'm honestly not allowed to have an opinion on Ross's relationships unless she's participating in fraternization. Though I'm a hypocrite in that regard and am ignoring my knowledge of several other fraternizing couples. And for you, I'd just be thrilled if you found someone who can love and support you and Elicia. Ross is a good person. The highest quality of person. I have no complaints if she's what you really want."
She sighed softly, her shoulders relaxing. Her gaze turned back to the headstone, her face growing sorrowful again. "Do you think Maes…"
"I think he would understand. And- if you believe in an afterlife, and all that- I think he'd be worried about how lonely you are. If you can find healing, and joy, and someone who will love Elicia as much as he did, I think he'd be in full support of that."
She smiled weakly, looking back up at him. "Thank you, Roy." They grew quiet again, side by side as a soft breeze picked up. The sun hung low to the west, adding to the golden glow of October. "You're welcome to stay in the guest room tonight," Gracia offered, clearly noting his interest in the sky.
"Riza won't be comfortable with that. She also made it clear that Elicia can't know about us. I think she's worried a seven-year-old would tell everyone that Uncle Roy is in love with Auntie Riza," he grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.
Gracia chuckled softly, "Are you going to head back to East City tonight, then?"
"No. I want to spend some quiet time with her and gauge how she's handling all of this. I was thinking of a hotel or…"
"Roy," Riza called, coming back up behind them. "I- hate to cut this short, but I'm getting hungry," she admitted, tucking some brown hair behind her ear.
"I'm sorry, I didn't make dinner tonight," Gracia rushed. "Elicia was going to stay out late and I was going to finish off some leftovers."
"We dropped in unannounced. It's fine," Riza reassured, smiling politely.
"I have an idea," he dragged out, focusing on Riza. "We could go talk to Grumman while we're in town."
Riza hesitated, Gracia shooting him a warning glance. "That might not be the best idea…"
"No, I- I'd like to see him," Riza interjected, but her resolve was questionable as she ran her hands down the front of her skirt, flattening it. "I just… We can't just drop in on him like we could with Gracia. I need to call him and if he has any visitors, like political dignitaries or military brass, the idea is out," she determined, her voice slowly growing more firm. "I also need to go as Riza, not- not Elizabeth. I don't think he knows I use Mother's name when incognito and I don't want him to know. I also don't know how much I want to tell him yet. So- we'll say we decided on an impromptu visit to Gracia, didn't plan accommodations, and decided to say hello."
Roy nodded firmly, "Alright. I'll follow your lead."