Originally Published: March 14, 2022
Last Edited:
A/N: Happy Pi day, and happy White Day (wish we celebrated that in the U.S.).
Thank you all for reading and reviewing! And thank you to NotPerky for continuing to beta for me! He helped me brainstorm quite a bit for this chapter.
Now, this is the fifth chapter of this 'romantic getaway weekend' that I had no intentions to spend so much time on. I promise in the next chapter we will start to speed up the story.
Thank you again for sticking with me, and enjoy reading!
Chapter 28
Gifts and Messages
Sunday, October 6, 1918
Roy rolled the car into the driveway, and from his peripheral he noticed Riza's pursed lips as she looked up at the house. Parking, he wasn't surprised when she voiced her concern, "Do you know who's with Chris?"
"No," he answered simply, cutting the engine. Opening his door, he huskily ordered her to "Stay here," before climbing out. Exhaling, he tugged at his collar, considering their predicament in the fresh air.
She would be skittish of anyone here helping Chris, and he'd told Vanessa he had plans away from home for both nights. Where it was a Sunday evening, Nessa had likely scheduled herself at the bar to manage and had one of the other girls here.
Still, Riza deserved to be here. He'd tried so hard to make her feel at home that the thought of allowing the bar girls to continue to displace her made his skin prickle. Glancing back into the car, he found Riza with her eyes closed, a schooled soberness to her face and her shoulders purposely relaxed.
To hell with it.
Grabbing both of their bags from the back, he tossed his suit coat over his shoulder before rounding the vehicle. She jerked when he opened her door, her muscles tensing and eyes hostile as she looked up at him. Silently, he held out his hand, offering to help her up.
Confusion replaced her hostility. "Roy? Wait, aren't you going to check…?"
"No. I think the attack at the station is enough of an excuse for you to be here tonight. Grumman also ordered me to keep an eye on you. Besides, this is your home too," he added with a soft smile.
Her expression softened and a heartbeat later she took his hand. He helped her out, and the sensation of her weight actually relying on him for the assistance reminded him of her clear fatigue. He pulled her close as he escorted her towards the porch, his hand resting on her hip.
Her cool fingers brushed atop his as she looked up at him. "Later," she promised, guiding his hand away.
He gave a small nod before climbing the stairs ahead of her, pulling his keys out. Pushing his way in, he held the door open for her as the distant sound of the radio on a talk show or news report drifted from the living room.
"Roy? Is that you?" Chris called from the same direction, her voice cracking slightly.
"Hey Chrissy. I've brought Major Hawkeye with me," he replied as Riza hesitated in the entryway. Letting the door fall close, he slipped past her, setting their bags and his jacket on the nearest armchair. "Get comfortable, Love," he whispered, sensing her uneasiness.
A high heeled pair of feet clicked across the hardwood floor from the kitchen. Kate came around the corner, her brunette hair up in a bun, a few loose strands curled into ringlets and framing her heart shaped face. Her velvet, goldenrod yellow dress highlighted her curves with a plunging neckline and high silted skirt, her heavy makeup done for a night of work.
The two women glanced over each other, and though Riza gave no visible cues, he could sense her hostility. Kate, on the other hand, seemed unaffected by Riza, her attention shifting to him smoothly. "We've heard about the attack. It's good to see you're unhurt."
Roy sighed, pushing a hand through his hair. "It's hardly been an hour. How did you hear?"
"Really?" she challenged, a finely plucked brow twitching upward. "It's on the radio. Though Jacqueline let us know before it went public."
Riza would not like that, but it was unavoidable with such a public attack. "Okay, fair," Roy agreed begrudgingly. Glancing between the women, he realized introductions were in order. "Kate, this is Major Hawkeye. Major, this is Kate," Roy offered.
Kate's attention shifted back to Riza, "Are you alright? I know your line of work, but it's no joke having someone try to shoot you."
"I'm fine," Riza lied, a tension to her shoulder blades.
He wasn't the only one to notice and Kate's presence instantly warmed in response, a delicate smile growing on her face. "Come in, Major. Let's get you comfortable." Without touching Riza, she managed to urge her forward, a hand hovering behind her back. Kate glanced back at him, a worried pinch to her eyes as he followed them down the hall to the junction between kitchen, living room, and front room.
In the living room, Chris sat on the larger couch, leaning against an armrest as she reached to turn off the radio from where she sat. "Riza, dear, come here. You look frazzled," she rushed, pulling her blanket off of the cushion directly to her left.
Trusting his aunt to care for her, Roy caught Kate's elbow before whispering, "I need to make a phone call. Are you headed to the Bar?"
"Jules should be here in about ten minutes to switch me out," Kate replied, nodding absently.
"Grumman wants me to keep Hawkeye here overnight for security. I think Chris will be fine until morning with us. When Jules arrives, you can both head back."
"If you're sure…" Kate hesitated, her brow furrowing.
"I am. Now, can I trouble you for some tea? Hawkeye has had an upset stomach this afternoon."
Kate nodded and moved into the kitchen, giving Roy the chance to check on Ri. She'd taken up the seat next to Chris, who had wrapped a blanket around her shoulders and was proceeding to comb through Riza's tangled locks with her fingers. Riza had miraculously relaxed into her ministrations, her chestnut eyes heavy.
Grateful his aunt had disarmed her, Roy shifted to the phone, turning his back on them as he lifted the handset. He'd memorized Catalina's number since Riza had moved in and spun the rotary half mindedly. A series of rings met him before a clatter came from the other line as someone picked up.
"Rebecca here!"
"Captain, it's Mustang."
Catalina's "Oh?" was stale after her energetic greeting.
"Look, Major Hawkeye isn't feeling well, and she's asked for you to come over with Hayate. We're at my place," he explained. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end and he ran a hand over his nape, trying to dismiss the sensation. "Also, we could probably use the extra security."
"Security?" her pause was too brief for an explanation before she continued, "Sure, I'll be there. Just- Havoc is coming too."
Roy twisted to look back at Riza, surprised to see her eyes on him, a subtle heat behind her gaze. Her cheeks flushed upon discovery as she quickly turned back to Chris, murmuring something he couldn't hear.
"Uh- I think that will be fine," Roy agreed, bewildered by what the women could be talking about behind his back to give Riza that look.
"We'll be there soon," Catalina promised.
"Thanks. Just come in, the door's unlocked."
Catalina hummed in acknowledgment before he hung up. With that done, he crossed over to the two ladies on the couch. Crouching down by Riza, he gently rested a hand on her knee. "Catalina and Havoc are on their way and Kate's making you some tea before she leaves. Is there anything else I can get you? Do you think you can eat?"
Riza frowned with indecision, her fists curling in the loose fabric of her skirt. Beside her, Chris began smoothing her hair again as she suggested, "Get her some toast. If she can handle that, maybe we can try something heavier."
Riza's frown turned into a scowl as she glanced at Chris. "They're not saying I threw up over the radio, are they?"
"No no no!" Chris soothed hastily, "Most citizens think too highly of you to embarrass you like that. Besides, that would be too crass for public radio. I only know because Jacqueline told me."
"Jacqueline?" Riza murmured before her gaze swiveled to Roy. "Kate? Vanessa? Are the Teams' code names just- bar girls?" she accused.
"You're surprised?" he chuckled, amused that it had taken her so long to figure out.
Her eyes narrowed. "No."
Chortling, he gave her knee a squeeze. "Let me go get that toast," he murmured as a knock came at the door. Glancing back, he rose up from his crouch, stepping past the coffee table.
Kate intercepted him at the entrance to the kitchen. "It's probably Jules. I'll get it. The tea is steeping," she waved vaguely back towards the kitchen before passing him and moving to the door.
"Thank you, Kate," he called after her.
She glanced back at him once she reached the door, a knowing expression on her face. "If you need anything, just call."
His brows tugged together as she opened the door, greeting the woman outside and stepping out before Jules could try to come in. Pushing away worries about Kate, he moved into the kitchen. Vaguely, he could hear Chris's rough voice from the other room, and Riza's calm replies as he got the toast going. Trying to listen in, he couldn't catch more than random stray words.
Settling his attention on pulling out teacups, he was left alone with a moment to think. Not exactly the best thing right now. He was left ping-ponging between the attack at the station and the reality of threatening blackmail.
Groaning quietly, he pinched the bridge of his nose. All he'd wanted was to give Riza a romantic weekend. Abandoned plans of going to the theater, the nicest restaurant in East City, and a pair of nights in a honeymoon suite left a tight knot in his chest.
Exhaling the unpleasant regret, he turned his focus to now. There were still a few hours left of the weekend, and it was already guaranteed she'd be staying with him tonight. He could salvage something, even if she wasn't feeling well. A quiet, intimate evening with his Love. He'd light a fire, and they'd snuggle on the couch with Chris and Hayate while sipping tea.
Easing into a soft smile, he collected the toast and tea before making his way into the living room. To his surprise, Riza was standing by the mantle, pulling her hair over one shoulder as she bent over, looking into the box sitting in the corner. Chris was missing from her nest on the couch with the closed bathroom door telling where she'd gone. Riza glanced over her shoulder at him as she pulled a wrapped gift out from the box. "Are these your birthday presents?"
He set the tray on the coffee table, his eyes absently dropping to the loose fabric of her skirt hanging from the curve of her ass. Focusing back on her face, he shrugged, "Yes. I've tried to open a couple a night, but with Chris and work..."
She suddenly picked up the box, carrying it to the other side of the coffee table. "Let's open them now."
"Careful, I don't want you to..." he cut off as she shot him a challenging glare.
"I'm fine, Sir. I'm just tired," she explained, setting the box down. In a softer voice, she added, "I'd like the distraction... And it's been over a week! You really should have opened these by now."
"Alright, alright," he relented, going to her side and wrapping a hand around her waist. "Sit back down. I'll open them."
Unexpectedly, she stepped closer into his embrace, her side pressed against his as she absently brushed her knuckles over his row of buttons. Her eyes dropped to the gesture before they flickered to his lips, then back to his own gaze.
His brain froze with her wandering attention, a heat bundling in the pit of his stomach as the places they were touching began to tingle. His hand unconsciously slid from her waist down her hip as he lifted his fingers under her chin, tilting her up as he drew closer. Her pretty, pink lips parted slightly, and he paused as her warmth radiated to his skin. She inhaled sharply, her eyes growing heavy as he hovered over her mouth, her breath minty.
The scent kicked his brain into action again as he recalled the reason she'd brushed her teeth before bedtime. Focusing on her eyes, he pulled back a few inches, breaking the tension of the almost kiss. Her eyes widened, growing alert.
"How are you feeling?" he breathed, letting her chin go and shifting his hand back up to the dip of her waist.
A spark lit her eyes as she scowled. "Really? I thought you were going to kiss me!"
"I was, but I suddenly remembered you threw up on Vulcan's shoes a little more than an hour ago, and I thought I'd check."
She gave a frustrated sound, her cheeks growing red as she broke from his arm, moving to curl up on the further end of the larger couch. "If I was still nauseated, I wouldn't have started it," she growled as she unbuckled her shoes, peeling them off.
"Good to know," he offered lightly, sitting on the middle cushion beside her. He rested a hand on her exposed calf as she stared daggers at him. He leaned over, getting back in her bubble as he hovered over her mouth. "I can still kiss you if you'd like."
"I'm not in the mood," she grumbled, unmoving. "Open a present. I won't ask again, Sir."
"Such scorn," he murmured, resisting a playful smile as he pulled back. Reaching into the box, he caught hold of the handle of a gift bag.
"Who's it from?" she asked, hostility gone from her voice in an instant.
He flipped the dangling nametag over, he scowled at the blurry letters. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his glasses. With the scrawled handwriting coming into focus, he easily recognized it from work. "Breda," he offered before pulling out tissue paper. He peered inside and pulled out the black, felt fedora, which he promptly plopped on top of his crown. It fit comfortably on his head, but pushed his bangs into his eyes. Looking sideways at Riza, he shot her a smirk. "How do I look?"
She shifted closer, brushing his fringe to the side and giving him a clearer view of her stoic visage. "You'll need to style your hair, but it would look really good with your overcoat. Haymens has a good sense of fashion, especially for hats."
"You can say that again," Chris's gruff voice drew their attention over the back of the couch to where she was exiting the bathroom. She stepped over to them, supporting her weight with a hand on the backrest between them.
"Come sit, Madame," he urged, moving to stand.
She waved him off absently, "I need a few minutes on my feet. I'm sitting way too much these days."
He relaxed with that as Riza reached to pour herself some tea. "Keep going, Roy."
"You could help," he added cheekily, reaching in and grabbing what felt like a wrapped book, the indent of the spine under his thumb.
"They're your gifts," Riza shot back, taking a bite of toast.
Roy smirked, "Yeah, but Vanessa specifically asked me to let 'Elizabeth' open her gift."
"Then I'll open hers when we get to it."
Chuckling softly, he looked down at the wrapped gift in his lap. He had to turn the book backwards to find a carefully written script on the brown paper. To General Mustang, From Alphonse Elric and Mei Chang. He broke the paper along the edge, pulling it back to find a red leathered tome with golden Xingese hanzi engraved and gleaming on the cover.
"Shit!" Roy breathed, opening the pages and skimming through the thick pages. The dark ink filled the leaves with the foreign script and diagrams of transmutation circles. Halfway through the book, a note fell into his lap, drawing his attention. Picking it up, he read aloud, "'General Mustang, I remember asking you about Alkahestry while my brother and I were trying to get our bodies back, and that you hadn't heard of it. I'm sorry we couldn't find a copy in Amestrian, but Mei assures me this is a high quality, beginners intro to the subject. I hope you can learn from it.'" It was signed by Alphonse, and what he made out as Mei's signature in henzi form.
"Can you read it?" Chris asked flatly.
"I'm not sure. I struggle with speaking Xingese, let alone reading it. Maybe with a transition dictionary, but it would take me a long time."
"It's still a beautiful book, and a very thoughtful gift," Riza added, cupping her tea between both palms.
"It is," he agreed, slipping the note back into the pages.
"You should open mine next," Chris suggested, rounding the couch and digging through the box.
Riza's glare drew Roy's attention, "You haven't opened Chris's yet?"
He shrugged nonchalantly, "I was trying to save the best for last."
"Don't tell her that, she'll wonder why you opened hers first," Chris teased, placing another wrapped book in his hands.
Absently opening it, he retorted, "I couldn't help myself. Besides, she'd told me before the party what she'd gotten me."
Looking down at the cover, he froze. Processing the title, his cheeks heated, the embarrassment spreading to his ears, neck, and down his back.
How to Pleasure Your Lady Lover.
Besides him, Riza shifted, looking over his shoulder. "Oh," she breathed.
"Chris!" he protested, sliding a hand over the cover to hide it from sight. "I… Why? You don't think I'm that bad, do you?" he demanded, feeling uncomfortably hot, and hyper aware of Riza's weight on the cushion next to him.
His aunt didn't react to the couple's embarrassment, a serious expression on her weathered face. "I wouldn't say 'bad', Boy. Just inexperienced. Riza will probably appreciate some of the things in that book, and in turn, you'll appreciate it too."
He could feel Riza's blush without even looking at her. "I've never been afraid to ask when I've had questions!" he protested.
"Questions don't lead to expertise," she countered, sitting down beside him.
The sound of the front door opening was followed by an excited bark, detracting from the moment. "Hello? Riza?" Catalina called as quick paws pattered across the wooden floor.
"In here," Riza beckoned as Hayate came into sight, nose to the ground. He barked again at the sight of her, loping over with his tail wagging fiercely. "Hey, boy. It's good to see you," she greeted, setting her tea down to pet him.
Tucking Chris's book under the one from Mei and Al, Roy set them on the table as Catalina and Havoc stepped into the living room.
"Riza! We heard on our way over. Oh my god, are you alright?" Catalina gushed, rushing to Riza's side and throwing her arms around her.
Riza's muffled sound of surprise was followed by her patting Catalina's arm awkwardly. "I'm fine."
"What happened? Other than someone trying to shoot you," Jean asked, hands buried in his pockets as he hovered behind Catalina.
Catalina pulled back to get a good look at Riza. "Nothing much," Riza shrugged, "Vulcan was shot in the arm, then Roy and Grumman's guards apprehended him."
Rebecca snorted, "You make it sound like you took a walk in the park."
Riza tensed beside him. Taking his cue, Roy gently reached over, taking her hand and squeezing it comfortingly. "We're trying not to think about it. Sit down. Have some tea. We're opening the last of my birthday presents."
Catalina perked up at that, eyeing his hat and the two books on the table. "Oh. Have you opened mine yet?"
"No, but I can do that one next," he offered, pulling the box closer and peering inside. Beside him, Hayate jumped up on the couch, wedging his way between his and Riza's thighs before his tail began beating a tattoo against Roy's hip.
As Roy dug out Catalina's gift, Havoc lightly asked as he sat down, "How have you been healing up, Madame?"
"Well enough. I can walk up and down stairs without help now."
Finding another rectangular gift, (there were several) he pulled out Catalina's. "A book?" he asked, flipping it over skeptically. "You don't strike me as a book giver."
Rebecca snorted, sitting next to Jean, a notable space between them as she hugged the armrest. "Just open it, Mustang."
He obliged, finding a slick, black cover with no title. Flipping through the pages, he quickly found out why, the calendar and day planner not needing a title. Not wanting to be rude, he skimmed through the pages politely. He couldn't see himself ever using it, though Riza perked up beside him.
"Ah, thank you. This is nice," he offered smoothly.
"Yeah, it is. So stop making Riza keep track of your shit... I mean, 'life'."
"Really Becca?" Riza sighed as Chris chortled lightly.
"What?" Catalina asked, her voice cracking defensively.
"We function as well as we do because we play to our strengths."
Becca snorted, crossing her arms under her generous chest. "Yeah, but you pull most of the weight."
"I don't see it that way," Riza replied coolly.
"How about you open another gift, Chief!" Jean interrupted, leaning forward to look inside the box.
"Sure," Roy agreed, adding the planner to the book pile.
"Ooo! This one's from Armstrong," Havoc announced, pulling out a square box, wrapped in shiny, purple paper with a once elegant bow on top that had been squashed by other gifts.
Accepting the gift, Roy pulled off the bow before ripping the paper open. The box was a dark gray with a curly, pink cursive proclaiming Armstrong Hair Gel. Skeptical, he pried open the box to make sure the contents matched the label. Sure enough, the fat cylinder inside bore the same design. As he took it out, a card fluttered to the floor and Riza quickly ducked down to grab it.
"Oh, sorry," he murmured.
"No, you're fine," she promised before holding up the card to read. "'General Mustang, with your new promotion, I thought it was likely you would be required to dress up more often. Let me then present to you a new product of my own making: Armstrong Hair Gel, trademark pending. Though not backed by generations of Armstrong use, I have been developing this product for nearly a decade. Indeed, it is the same product I use on my own mustache and traditional Armstrong curl…'" Riza began trembling, and it took Roy a second to recognize the suppressed mirth twinkling in her eyes. "'Sir, please do me the honor of testing the gel and give me an honest review. Wishing you the happiest of birthdays, Alex Louis Armstrong.'"
"Oh. My. God." Havoc deadpanned, Catalina covering her mouth as she too shook with suppressed laughter.
"If it'll keep your stubborn hair in place, I'd give him a perfect review," Chris commented, her expression completely serious.
Roy pried open the lid, the heady scent within reminding him of men's cologne. It looked fairly innocent, so he closed it before shrugging. "It's worth a try. Armstrong doesn't attach his name to things he doesn't think highly of."
"True," Jean agreed, pulling out another book-shaped gift. "Here, Chief. This one's from me."
Roy raised an eyebrow as he accepted it, giving Jean a silent, skeptical look. Havoc gestured for him to go ahead, relaxing back in his seat. Ripping the wrappings, Roy turned the book to examine the title: The Amorous Man's Guide to Kama Sutra, Complete with Illustrations.
The same embarrassed heat from earlier engulfed Roy in an instant. "The fuck, Havoc? Why are you…?"
"What is it?" Riza asked innocently next to him, her words freezing his flustered anger. She tried reaching for it, but his knee jerk reaction was to pull the book as far away from her as possible, inadvertently shoving it in front of Chris's nose.
Chris gave a disgruntled sound, pulling her head back before giving a scoff. "That's the title they came up with?"
"What is it? I don't understand," Riza pressed, resting a hand on his thigh.
Havoc began cackling as Roy stammered, "Y-you don't want to know. It-it's nothing, I swear!"
Suspicion grew in Riza's large, chestnut eyes as she leaned on him, trying to reach for the book. "Nothing? Then let me look."
The sudden pressure of her palm on his thigh made him squirm. "Riza, please, it's not important."
"If it's not important, then tell me what 'karma suture' means," she challenged.
Dear god, she hadn't even had a chance to read it properly. Behind him, Rebecca gasped sharply, "You didn't. Jean!"
Squished awkwardly between them, Hayate whined a yip before scrambling to escape. The jostling made Riza's hand slip on Roy's thigh, smacking to the couch underneath him and much too close to his most important area.
"Riza!" he nearly squeaked.
On his other side, Chris plucked the book from his hand, flipping the pages open. "It's 'Kama Sutra', dear. It's a guide to exotic sex positions."
Riza froze and he could see the gears churning in her head. Her cheeks flooded a bright red before she withdrew her hand from between his legs. "Oh," she breathed.
Rebecca suddenly smacked Jean's bicep, giving him a dirty glare. "Ow! It's not that bad!"
"You could have warned me. And how would that have gone over if he'd opened it at the party?"
"I'm a jokester, the Chief's a playboy. It would have been fine. Besides, the Chief's reaction was gold," Jean dismissed.
"I'm glad my humiliation was what you were aiming for. A perfect birthday present," Roy shot back as he reached into the box, grabbing another present at random- an envelope with a weight in one corner.
"You'll thank me for it later," Jean smirked, giving Riza a wink as he crossed his arms, leaning against his armrest.
He very well might, but he wasn't going to right now. Especially not in front of all these ladies. Turning his focus back to the thick envelope he noted the To Mustang scrawled in a vaguely familiar hand. Not sure what to expect, Roy broke the seal and tipped the envelope into his hand. Out rolled three coins, a 500 and two 10 cenz pieces landing in his palm.
Realization washed over him as he looked down at the pocket change. Tucking the pieces into his palm, he pulled out the paper inside, unfolding it.
Two handwritings filled the page, the first he now recognized as Edward's:
Good work in Ishval. I'll borrow more at the wedding.
Underneath the more feminine font read:
Sorry Ed is so CHEAP Mr. Mustang. He insists this is all he gives you. Riza, since I know you'll likely read this, please purchase a suitable gift for the General and I'll reimburse you. Happy Birthday! Winry Rockbell
Smirking at Miss Rockbell's reaction, Roy passed the note over to Riza before pocketing the change. "Wait, what was that?" Jean asked, trying to get a look.
"Fullmetal's gift," Roy replied, pulling out another gift bag by the handles.
"What was it?" Catalina asked, curious.
"It's- hard to explain," Roy offered hesitantly. Still, a soft smile tugged at his lips. "It was a good gift, though. I'm honored, really."
"Over 520 cenz?" Chris murmured next to him, having looked up from the Kama Sutra book she was still examining.
"It's a long story," Roy diverted, checking the tag on the gift bag. "Oh, it's Vanessa's gift. Care to do the honors, Elizabeth?" he asked, giving her a wink.
Riza hesitated, looking up from the note in her hand to the bag. Pursing her lips, she asked, "What's the likelihood of it being a sexual gift?"
"It is," Chris answered without hesitation.
"I'll open it when we're alone," she determined, focusing back on the note.
"Come on, Hawkeye! You'll spoil the fun," Havoc cried, smacking his armrest.
Rebecca giggled, "Yeah, Riza. After Jean's gift, how bad can it be?"
Joining in, Roy shook the bag lightly, giving her a teasing grin. "You heard them, Love. It won't bite."
She shot him a glare before snatching the bag from him, passing the note back. Fond of the paper, Roy tucked it into the planner Catalina had given him as Riza pulled out tissue paper from the bag.
She peered into the bag before bringing out a box. "Strawberry flavored condoms," she declared in a flat voice, Havoc and Catalina beginning to giggle from the other couch. "Why the hell would they need to be flavored? My vagina doesn't have taste buds."
Havoc's laugh was cut off by him coughing. Roy's cheeks grew warm as he gently took them from her, "Oral," he explained softly.
She met his gaze, then blushed, quickly looking back into the bag as she muttered, "Wanted to do this in private." She pulled out a second box, reading aloud, "Textured condoms."
Rebecca sniggered as Roy bit back any outward reaction. Textured condoms were actually a good idea! Riza might appreciate the additional friction. He might too.
He kept his comments to himself, accepting the box from her as her brow furrowed. Reaching in, she grabbed something that jangled and clicked when picked up. Out came a pair of handcuffs, and he panicked.
"No! No no no!" he flailed, shoving them back into the bag.
Chris had joined the laughter as Catalina challenged, "What? Afraid of what she'll do to you when she cuffs you to the bed?"
The shot of heat to his groin at such a suggestion was not needed as he fumbled to put the condom boxes back in the bag. "How about we open the next gift? That's a great idea!"
The laughter died down as Roy moved on. The next gift being a leather wallet from Lieutenant Brosh.
Opening the large box mailed in by Falman, Roy found a pair of fur lined, iron studded boots.
To his surprise, Vulcan had given him a wine opener. Not a bad gift from someone he hadn't expected a gift from at all.
Sheska's gift (to no one's surprise) was a book. Specifically a book on Ishvalan culture pre Extermination Order.
Another book from Ross solved the issue of translating the Alkahestry tome, being an Amestrian/Xingese dictionary.
Fuery's gift was a new electric razor, Jean making a quip about Kain being 'worried' Roy wasn't shaving every day.
The chess set from Grumman was a high quality, but left Roy uncertain where to keep it. His office?
As they reached the last two gifts in the box, Catalina began picking at her sweater and Jean stifled a yawn. Chris had gone back to browsing the Kama Sutra, and Hayate had returned to Riza's lap, where she was stroking his fur absently.
"What's left?" Riza asked.
Pulling out the last book shaped gift as well as the small, rectangular box, Roy searched for name tags on each. The book didn't seem to have one, while the other was from Gracia and Elicia.
He hesitated before picking up the gift from the Hugheses. Tearing off the brown paper and string, his heart stopped as he saw the soft, leather exterior and felt the firm structure of the case.
Without a word, Riza wrapped her arm around his waist, scooting against him as he stared at the box. "She wanted you to have them," Riza whispered, pressing a cheek against his shoulder.
His eyes began to burn as he held back the sudden wave of tears. Swallowing hard, he lifted the top of the case with trembling hands.
He knew these glasses. Their silver frames, and rectangular lenses. He could picture the olive gaze behind them, playful and intelligent. He could hear the sometimes carefree, sometimes serious voice of their owner.
Inhaling sharply, he covered his mouth with his hand. He squeezed his eyes shut in a vain attempt to stop tears from escaping as they burned wet trails down his skin anyways.
There was a quiet murmur from Catalina, followed by Riza's gentle answer near Roy's ear, "Brigadier General Hughes's glasses."
Oh, Hughes.
He hadn't expected this. Hadn't even imagined it. Blinking past his tears, he wiped his eyes hastily. Chris placed a gentle hand between his shoulders, scratching his back as Riza squeezed him again, both offering silent comfort.
Clearing his throat, he picked up the frames, giving them a once over. "Why'd she want me to have them?" he scratched out.
"She mentioned that you could replace the lenses. Wear them yourself."
He exhaled shakily, the concept too big to deal with immediately. He returned the glasses to their case before passing them to Riza, determined to move on before he had another breakdown.
Sniffing lightly, he grabbed the last present, turning it in his hands again before ripping the nondescript paper off. Unlike all the other books he'd received, this one was old, worn, and had a bit of water damage. Along the spine was a library's sticker: 540.1 for alchemy. The engraved title on the light blue hardback had once been darkened, flecks of silver or gray paint barely remaining.
Opening the cover to the title page, he was able to clearly read the ink, A Discourse on Alchemy by Silver Steiner. Hesitating, he flipped back to the inside cover to find the library return card still taped there. On the last filled out line was his name written in his childhood handwriting next to the date, Dec 4, '97.
"It's my library book," he whispered, almost numb. Flipping through the pages, he sensed Chris straighten next to him, pulling her hand from his back.
"Roy?" Riza asked.
There was no card. No bookmark or stray piece of paper. No indication of who had given it to him.
But he knew.
"How was this delivered?" Roy demanded, turning towards Chris.
"Delivered? What do you mean?"
"Was it mailed to the Bar? Brought by a guest?"
"I didn't keep track of every single present, Boy. You had nearly fifty of them," Chris snapped.
"Chris," he urged, taking her hand and holding the book in front of her. "This is the library book that went missing when Izumi left. What if… What if it's from her?"
Behind him, Riza gasped, her grip tightening on his shirt.
Chris stared at the book for a long moment before standing suddenly. Moving gracefully around the couch, she went to the phone, quickly spinning the rotary.
"Wait. What's going on?" Havoc asked, he and Catalina watching with blank stares.
They didn't know. He'd purposely kept the fact that he had a long lost sister quiet at work. It was an old, dead end he didn't want brought up casually.
"Christmas here. I need Vanessa," Chris clipped from the hallway. "I have a lead on Izumi."
Riza exhaled, collapsing on the edge of hers and Roy's bed after bringing most of his presents upstairs. She buried her face in her hands, giving herself a moment's rest before bed.
After Chris had called the Bar, Roy had given a botched explanation to Rebecca and Jean that Izumi was a, quote, 'family member' who had been out of contact for 'a few years'. She understood his apprehension, it was their first clue that Izumi Mustang was even alive after more than twenty years. The explanation had seemed to be enough as Jean and Rebecca shrugged it off and left shortly after.
Roy and Chris were still downstairs, talking through dead ends, listing books gifted to him at the party, and waiting to hear back from the Bar. She couldn't stay up any longer though. Too much had happened today, and her body still lagged with fatigue. Add that to the impending start of the work week in the morning, and she knew better than to push herself when she was already worn thin.
Groaning softly, she began peeling off her blouse, listening to the soft murmurs of Roy and Chris from downstairs. Stripping down to her panties, she moved over to the laundry basket, digging for one of his button ups and pulling it on. His scent clung to the cool fabric, and she indulged in inhaling the smoky aroma as she fastened the buttons.
Bare legged, she glided to the door, closing it and turning off the lights. Dusting her fingers on the mattress, she followed it around to her side of the bed where she turned on the lamp and pulled back the covers. Climbing in, she sank gratefully into the cushions, hugging a pillow as she closed her eyes.
Roy and Chris's murmured voices eased her into a sense of security, her fatigue pulling her into the lulls of sleep. After what felt like seconds, the bed dipped behind her with added weight. She jerked, inhaling sharply as she lifted her head.
"Sorry," Roy breathed, settling down and dragging the sheets up over them.
She groaned, rolling over to slink her arms around his naked torso. Blinking away sleep, she rubbed her cheek into her pillow as she focused on him, her head clearing. "Any news from the Bar?"
He swallowed before shaking his head, pulling her closer and engulfing her with his muscular arms. "There were a lot of books, and the girls haven't come up with anyone new who'd brought one that night. It doesn't help that the party was so…"
"Chaotic," she offered, absently dragging the tips of her fingers across his back.
He shivered, squeezing her tightly. "Tease," he muttered, pressing his forehead against hers.
"It's pay back for you making me open Vanessa's gift in front of everyone," she smirked, trying to fight back her lingering fatigue.
He breathed a chuckle, his eyes sparkling affectionately. "I bit off more than I could chew with that one. Handcuffs," he shook his head.
She mulled over the concept for a moment, her heart beginning to speed up with nervousness. Squirming slightly, she dared to ask, "Have you- ever thought about it?"
His casual mirth vanished as he held her gaze. He exhaled through his nose, pushing himself up onto an elbow so he was looking down at her. His jaw tightened as he moved to brush her bangs from her face. "I haven't entertained the idea."
She rolled slightly to look up at him, "Why not?"
He exhaled a huff, hanging his head before he pushed his hair out of the way. "Fuck, Ri, I- I don't want to hurt you."
"You think you would?"
"Well- it's just that- toys like handcuffs are usually associated with certain kinds of foreplay that…" he huffed again, searching for words, his brow furrowed. "I mean, I don't want to go there. Not with…"
Pushing herself up, she ran her hands soothingly across his shoulders and neck. "You can tell me, Roy."
He grimaced, shifting to sit on his rear. Not liking the distance, she crawled to him, inviting herself to sit in his lap. He frowned as she straddled his waist, her bum dipping into the gap of his crossed legs.
"Well, this isn't going to make it easier," he grumbled, his hands absently running up her thighs. The familiar caress made her body tingle in anticipation, her area tightening excitedly as her fatigue seemed to dissolve when put against her arousal.
Refusing to hint at her reaction yet, she shrugged, looping her arms behind his shoulders. "You like it, though."
"That's not the point," he growled.
She smirked, pecking his lips lightly. "Back on track, what are your reservations with handcuffs?"
It was his turn to squirm, his legs flexing underneath her as he settled his hands on her lower back, toying with the loose fabric. "Look, I'm not against using handcuffs. It's just- there's a subset of people who are- aroused by being physically aggressive with their partner. I'd say it borders the definition of abuse, but it's supposed to be consensual.
"These people like to use toys like handcuffs to limit the body's natural defense mechanisms to such foreplay. I never considered handcuffs because I don't want to put you in compromising situations- especially with the way your father used to treat you."
Even though he mentioned her father, her mind went to Kimblee, toying with her, disarming her, and trapping her against a corner. She dropped her gaze, shame and a filthy sense of violation burning in the places Kimblee had groped her.
"Ri," Roy breathed, moving to caress her jaw. "I would never hurt you like that. We don't ever have to use handcuffs if you don't want to. But if you do, you can dictate the use- on yourself or- if you want to use them on me," he added, a slight blush coloring his cheeks.
"Is that something you want?" she asked, attempting to stifle a disbelieving chuckle with only partial success.
He gave her a warning look, "Don't laugh. It's sexy as hell when you take control."
Flattered, she softened as she ran a hand absently through his hair, her gaze dropping to his lips. "I'll take that into consideration, Sir," she whispered, leaning in to brush a kiss against his mouth.
He exhaled, wrapping his arms around her rear and pulling her closer. Warmth flooded her, and she tilted her head to deepen the kiss. Roy hummed, shifting under her before he gently laid her back onto the pillows and sheets. Breaking away, he looked down at her fondly. "It's late. I didn't mean to keep you up."
"Roy," she began, warming her tone invitingly as she let a hand trace across his firm pecs. "I believe you offered me oral on the train. Now, you don't have to do that exactly, but you did promise me a romantic weekend."
He adjusted over her, shifting his weight to his forearms. "I'm afraid I might need to ask for a rain check, Love."
She tilted her head on the pillow, giving him a questioning look. "Rain check? Sure it's rained this weekend, but you're not that hopeless," she assured, purposely adding a sultry note to her voice. Absently she slipped her hands up his muscled arms, admiring the hard, sculpted feel under her palms.
He chuckled softly, his eyes darkening lustfully. "I meant for the romantic weekend. I'll prepare something even better than what I had planned this weekend. For now," he leaned closer, his breath dusting her ear, "If it's raining, I might as well get a little wet."
Her face burned, but she still smiled, squeezing his arms in silent approval. He paused though, pulling back to meet her gaze. "I know you wouldn't be asking if you didn't feel up to it, but… are you feeling alright? No nausea?"
"No nausea," she reassured.
His energy returned again as he moved a hand to her hip bone, pressing her down into the mattress. He absently began rubbing circles into her skin at the border of her waistband with his thumb. "Good. I want to get things right after last night. But first," he pushed himself up to his knees, holding up a finger as he climbed off of the bed.
She sat up, pulling her hair over her shoulder as she watched him dig through his present pile. "What are you looking for?" she asked, dropping a hand to toy with the buttons of her shirt, debating whether to take it off herself or to let him.
"I want to try those textured condoms Nessie gave us. I think you'll like them."
She rolled her eyes, highly doubting it. Keeping that to herself, she shifted to comb through her hair as she tried teasing, "How about you start by getting up, and getting me wet."
He shot her a dirty look over his shoulder, "Patience, Major. We're going to have a repeat of last night with that attitude," he warned before straightening with a box in hand, flipping the top open.
As he pulled a package out, she idly asked, "Where's Hayate?"
"He wanted to stay with Chris. I think he was worried after she struggled getting into bed."
"How'd she take that?"
He chuckled, leaving the box on the nightstand as he climbed back onto the bed, crawling over to her. "She acted like she didn't want him there, but when I looked back in on them after turning off all the lights, she had him tucked up against her and was petting him."
She hummed, scanning his muscled torso absently and glancing at the bulge in his boxers. He smirked, lifting the condom and tucking it into her shirt's pocket. "Like what you see?"
Her cheeks heated, but she narrowed her eyes, "I see a General who forgot to put his pants on."
His hand found her thigh, slowly traveling up, almost to the crux of her legs before pulling back at the same lazy pace. "I'm not the only one, Major. And you stole my shirt."
"You weren't using it."
"Oh, I wasn't complaining. It looks better on you anyways. I think I'll let you keep it on this time- unless I change my mind."
She huffed, puffing her cheeks playfully. Usually clothes were dispensed of when they were in bed, but if Roy had something in mind, she wasn't inclined to ruin his plans.
"Lay back," he prompted gently, moving both hands to her waist, offering her support. She bit her lip as she wrapped an arm behind his shoulders and lowered herself with the other. He pulled her hips closer in the same motion, her legs spreading wider around his.
He stayed over her, his hands easily undoing her buttons and exposing her navel. He left the lapels draped over her breasts, moving his fingers to trace over her collarbone. "I left a lot of these the other day."
She dropped her gaze to the motion, realizing he was talking about the fading hickeys on her skin. "Maybe avoid adding any today," she teased, squeezing her thighs around his legs. She followed his gaze as it immediately dropped to the space between them, and she noted the definite tent in his boxers now.
She slid her hands down his chiseled and scarred abdomen, stopping at his waistband and toying with the elastic. She met his gaze again, her skin prickling from the tension as his eyes raked over her body, hungrily taking her in. After a moment, she slipped a hand down over his boxers, caressing his stiff member.
He tensed, leaning over her as he slid his hands under her shirt and up her sides. "You're jumping ahead, Major," he breathed, hovering over her mouth as he cupped the sides of her breasts, brushing her nipples.
"Ahead? I thought we were trying to entice each other," she shot back coyly. "Am I doing a poor job, Sir?"
He growled before stealing her lips possessively. Moaning, she opened up to tangle her tongue with his, arching her back as heat flooded her. She was so tight, she desperately wanted the relief of friction against her area. But as she tried to wrap her legs around him and grind against his cock, his hands shifted to her hips, pushing her back down to maintain the space between them.
Whining, she broke her mouth away. "Roy," she scolded against his ear.
"I'm getting there," he breathed before trailing light kisses across her jaw and down her neck. As he reached the valley between her breasts, she groaned when he nudged the fabric off of one with his nose, his warm breath brushing her nipple.
"Roy, hurry," she urged, squirming under him.
He paused, his open mouth hovering over her pink tip as he looked up at her, his eyes aflame. His hands loosened on her hips, one hooking under her waistband as the other brushed over her cloth covered core.
She shivered. Damn he was sexy, but her area was so tense it was starting to hurt. Biting her lip, she dropped her hands to the bed, fisting the sheets.
His eyes sparked as he abandoned her breast, her nipple hardening as his warm breath was replaced by cold air. He pushed himself up, kneeling above her as he dragged her underwear down her thighs. She let him guide her legs as he freed her of the small piece of cloth, tossing it carelessly over his shoulder.
His brow furrowed as he looked at her exposed womanhood, a slight frown tugging at his lips. Moving a hand to her center, he gently began massaging her tense bundle of nerves.
She gasped, her head tossing back against the pillows as she released a deep moan. Her entire frame relaxed as her core finally gushed lubricant with his ministrations, soaking his fingers easily.
"Better?" he prompted, hooking his free hand under her thigh. She moaned, nodding emphatically as a pleasured heat rolled through her body. He pressed his fingers against her more, his eyes darkening with want as he played with her entrance. "Reez, pass me the condom."
Moaning softly, she fumbled with her pocket, shuddering as he slid a pair of fingers into her. Managing to grab hold of the condom, she passed it to him and relaxed against his hand, closing her eyes as she started to rock her hips.
He hissed, shifting between her legs, his hand never stopping. Pleasure washed over her in waves until he barked out, "Roll over," in a rough voice.
Surprised, she lifted her head again and found he'd pulled his boxers to his knees. He was pumping his erect cock in time with his fingering thrusts, his demanding, lustful eyes, staring her down.
Her cheeks heated, but she didn't hesitate to obey her General's command. Twisting over, Roy moved his hand with her, continuing to please her. She scooped a pillow between her chin and breasts, tightening her fists into it as he added another finger, stretching her and making her moan.
Burying her face in her pillow, she naturally shifted to her knees, lifting her rear towards him as he stroked her deeper. She could hear the wrapper crinkle as he opened it behind her, and her brain suddenly panicked. "No anal, Roy," she rushed, looking back at him, unable to see his shaft as he slid the condom on one handed.
He chuckled darkly, "No anal, my Queen," he promised as his fingers slid out of her. She stifled a whine at the loss, burying her face back into the pillow. His hands gripped her hips gently as he pulled her up a little and he shifted closer. Her heart jumped to her throat as she felt his length brush her cheek before pressing against her clit, her shoulders tensing instantly.
"Shhh," he breathed, his dry hand pulling gently through her locks in a comforting gesture. "Is this a bad position? We can switch to something else."
She shook her head, trying to relax. "No. Keep going," she prompted, resisting the urge to grind against him.
His hand dropped from her hair, falling to the collar of her shirt and following it to the seam in her neck. He inhaled shakily behind her as he guided his tip to her entrance before slowly pushing in. With her fists already clenched on her pillow, she began tugging at it as he filled her, the new position tight and hitting her differently than anything they'd tried before.
He settled to a stop at what she assumed was his depth, his hips pressed flush with her ass as he gently slid his sticky hand across her rear and down her thigh. Almost absently, he pulled his hand from her neck down her back, and she could feel the fabric tug with his touch, pulled towards her waist.
Realization hit her as he pinned her ankle with one hand, the other going to anchor her hip. Lifting her head, she started with a half uttered, "Ro…" right as he began pumping her, his length sliding inside her.
She gasped, eyes widening as she felt it, her walls burning from the friction of the specialized condom. Behind her, Roy hissed under his breath, "Damn!"
"W-what?" she stammered, dropping her neck so her face hung just above her pillow, her hair draping to hide her face.
"It's fine," he dismissed quickly. "Are you still good?"
She bit her lower lip, torn between the feel of his heavy thrusts with their skin clapping delightfully together and the clinging fabric hugging her skin.
He shifted slightly, plunging deeper into her. "Oh," she gasped, all thought chased from her as she began rocking her hips back against him. He felt so good, it was all she could focus on, her toes curling.
Roy groaned behind her, his hand leaving her ankle to swiftly slide across her waist to her stomach. Her belly fluttered with his caress across her navel, up to her breast. He cupped it, massaging it greedily as her other breast swung with each of his thrust. Embarrassed as she became aware of it, she moved a hand to the other, holding it in place as she shifted most of her weight into her other forearm, which slipped on the sheets.
"Roy," she gasped, lifting her head.
He growled, releasing her breast to hook his arm across her chest. He suddenly hoisted her upright, her stomach and spine stretching to the new position as she fumbled to grab the headboard to hold herself up. She released a soft sound of surprise as his thrusts became more shallow, but so tight, exaggerating the friction from the condom.
He returned to her breast, lightly rubbing her nipple as he began kissing and nipping at the back of her neck. She moaned, quickly brushing her hair out of his face as his other hand slid up under her shirt, wandering the marked and marred skin of her back lightly.
She shuddered, an overwhelming wave of pleasure flooding her. "Roy, I- I might…"
He shifted his mouth to her ear, his hot, wet tongue sliding up the crest before he whispered, "I want you to, Àirén. Come for me."
Her breath hitched, his shallow thrusts making her head dizzy as he pinched the hard tip of her nipple, rolling it between his fingers. Her whole body trembled as euphoria shot through her, a high pitched cry leaving her as she tossed her head back onto his shoulder.
Everything burned, from her curled toes, bent knees, and stretched thighs, to her shaking arms, pert breasts, and arched back. She unintentionally jerked on his length burning inside her as she crumbled in his arms.
The Flame Alchemist held her tenderly, dusting a kiss on her cheek as she slowly came down from her high. Panting, she rolled her face towards his and hazily met his eyes, warm affection burning in his charcoal gaze.
He gently pulled from her, wrapping his arms around her middle and easing them both down to the bed. As he cuddled her from behind, she could feel his still hard length against her rear.
"R-Roy, you didn't…"
"Shh, it's fine," he breathed, brushing her hair from her face as he kissed her cheek again.
She twisted slightly, but ran out of room, pinned between his wall of a chest and his rock solid arms. Scowling, she began to protest, "But you didn't come. And I want to keep go..."
"Next time, Reez. It's pretty late, and this- is a pretty thick condom," he explained, nuzzling against her neck.
She relaxed slightly, a frown tugging at her lips as she realized the trade off for her added pleasure. "Roy…"
"Did you like it?" he whispered.
She released her protests with his vulnerable question. Lifting a hand, she caressed his jaw with her knuckle. "It felt good, but if it stops you from enjoying yourself, I'd rather go with a regular condom."
He cracked open an eye, looking up at her. "I didn't say I wasn't enjoying myself- it would just take a long time for me to finish. I'll ask Vanessa if there are thinner ones. But- that wasn't the only part I was wondering about. How'd you feel about the position?"
She wriggled in his arms until she could turn and face him properly, settling once she was level with his face. "I- didn't mind," she answered carefully. "But- I don't know how I feel about you keeping my shirt on to do it."
He grimaced, his shoulders tightening as he evaded her gaze. "I know. I just- wanted to try it."
She dropped her eyes to her hands on his chest, absently tracing nonsense patterns into his skin. "You tell me I'm beautiful, then you purposely hide it," she whispered. He took a breath to respond, but she cut him off, "I understand, it just sends mixed signals. I'd rather not have that between us."
He exhaled, hugging her tighter. "Shit. I didn't mean…"
"I know you didn't," she reassured, pressing a kiss to his lips. "Just, if you're not comfortable doing it without the shirt, let's just stick with other options. We'll both be more comfortable that way."
A muffled holler suddenly came through the closed door, "If you're done in there, make sure you go to the bathroom, Riza. You don't want to get a UTI!"
Roy's cheeks instantly flooded crimson, Riza's face burning just as hotly. "Oh my god," he groaned, dipping his face against her breasts as if to hide himself.
"Alright, Ms. Mustang," Riza managed to call back. She ran her hands absently through his thick hair, gently coaxing Roy back out so she could look at him. "Is that a fair expectation?" she asked, trying to pull it back to their previous topic.
He exhaled through his nose, moving to caress her cheek. "Of course it is. More than fair." She gave him a weak smile before pulling lightly from his arms. "Ah, Riza," he added, making her pause.
"Yes, Sir?"
He hesitated before visibly changing his mind. Instead, he smirked at her, running a hand sensually over her butt. "You look fucking sexy in my shirt."
Her cheeks heated as she scowled at him, lightly pushing his face away as she rolled out of his arms. Buttoning up the shirt, she rounded the bed to head to the bathroom. Roy propped his head onto his hand, lounging as he watched her.
His sudden wolf whistle made her snap, "Roy!" as she changed directions, jumping into bed to tackle him.
He broke into a bout of laughter as she wrestled to pin him under her. When she finally did, she had to puff her hair out of her face, a hand resting on his burn scar as she shoved her hair out of the way with the other.
"I thought you were going to the bathroom!" Roy panted under her, his eyes beaming and his grin wide.
"And I thought you didn't want to keep going," she challenged, pulling the large shirt off over her head. She bent down, hovering over his face, her staticky hair crackling between them.
He inhaled sharply, his eyes dropping to her lips.
"Obviously you do," she breathed.