~`*Golden Phoenix*`~
Chapter. 3
Military Ball
I walked into the Mess Hall, where Francesca flagged me down, while she was waiting in the lunch line. "Hey, Muriah!" She yelled, as she wrapped her arms around me in a tender hug. "Hey, Francesca." I replied, hugging her back. "So, what did the Colonel want?" She asked, I blushed. "U-Um, w-well, about that." I answered nervously, she gasped, her eyes going wide with shock. "Ooo, tell me, tell me!" She demanded, her hands coming to her cheeks, as she looked at me, and blushed. I explained to her what happened, and what was said, word for word, before telling her about that kiss that I had laid on the Colonel's cheek. "And before I knew it...I kissed him...On the cheek." I replied. "Oh, my god! That's so cute! And that's so romantic! Did he try to kiss you back?!" She asked, and rather eagerly, I might add. "N-No, nothing like that. I didn't exactly give him the chance to, I ran out of the room before he could even react." I answered. Francesca did an Anime Fall, "Ugh, Muriah! You're hopeless! You should've stayed! You can't just kiss a man, and run from him like that! How's he supposed to know how you really feel about him if you never stop, and tell him, instead of running away?" She asked. "I-I wasn't thinking, I was embarrassed!" I defended, a heated blush rising to my cheeks. "Ohhh, I see now. You like him!" She replied, grinning slyly at me. "I-I do not!" I retorted, my face only seeming to get redder. "Do too!" Francesca replied, smiling triumphantly all the while. "I'm telling you, Muriah, you do too. You so like him, and I have half a mind to run upstairs to his office right now, and tell him." She retorted, silencing me. "Please, don't." I begged, my cheeks seeming to get redder. "Hah! Admit it! You do like him!" She replied, pointing her fork at me, as we sat down at the table to eat our dinner.
"Admit what?" Came Muta's familiar voice, as he sat across from Francesca. "Like who?" Came Todo's reply, as he sat down across from me, next to Muta. "Are you gonna tell 'em, or should I?" Francesca asked, grinning slyly at me. I blushed, and remained silent, as I began to eat silently. "Fine, have it your way. Muriah has a crush on Lieutenant Colonel Mustang. She even kissed him on the cheek in his office earlier, didn't you, Muriah?" Francesca replied, gently nudging me with her elbow. "Shut-up." I answered, as I turned away from her, pointing my head up to the side. Francesca, Todo, and Muta all snickered at me. "Aw! Muriah, that's so cute!" Todo laughed. "Looks like the little baby's all grown up." Muta laughed. "I hate you guys." I replied, my face a heated blush. "Aw! We love you too, Muriah!" Francesca replied, wrapping an arm around me. "Hey, Muriah." Came a familiar voice, as I turned to see Major Hughes, as he sat down next to Muta, across from me, Muta, and Todo scooting over to make room for him. "O-Oh, u-um, hey, Major Hughes." I answered nervously. "Please, just call me Hughes. So, what's got you lookin' like a tomato?" Hughes asked. "Muriah has a crush on your best friend, Colonel Mustang." Francesca answered, nudging me once again with her elbow. "Francesca! I do not! Shut-up!" I replied, covering her mouth with my hands, she licked me, "Eew! Francesca!" I yelled, causing Muta, Todo, and even Hughes to laugh.
"Muriah, if you really don't like Colonel Mustang, then, why'd you kiss him?" Francesca asked, a sly grin playing on her lips. "Did she really now? Muriah, do tell." Came Hughes' response, grinning at me. "I-I just wanted to thank him for helping me, s-so, I kissed him on the cheek. That's all. I ran out of the room, I-I didn't even give him time to react." I stammered, great, I was stuttering. "Aw! You should've stayed, because, you wanna know what's gonna happen now?" Hughes asked, drawing my attention. "No." I answered. "Well, knowing Roy as well as I do, chances are, he might try to pursue you. I mean, you're a cute, smart, charming girl, and you've got a good personality. You're strong too, in both mind, and body. Roy likes that kind of thing in a woman." Hughes answered, smiling at me. "B-But, I-I'm not even a woman yet, I'm still just a girl." I replied, blushing slightly. "Don't sell yourself short, Muriah. I'll tell you what, the Military Ball is coming up, and Roy doesn't have a date yet. I'll set you up with him on one condition : You have to tell him how you really feel about him on the night of the Military Ball, don't care how ya do it, just as long as you tell him. If you can, try to get him alone, where it's him, and you." Hughes replied, coaching me along. "How is this going to work? When's the Military Ball? What am I going to wear?" I asked, looking at myself. "The Military Ball's tomorrow night. Don't worry about how it's gonna work, trust me, I've got a few tricks for ol' Roy. Besides, he needs to get himself a wife, and you seem like perfect wife material for him." Hughes replied, startling me. "W-Wife?!" I asked, my heart pounding against my chest. Hughes chuckled, "Relax, kid. I didn't say you were gonna marry him right now, but, maybe someday soon." Hughes replied, placing a gentle hand at the top of my head. "Anyway, you leave Roy to me, as for a dress, go look in the shopping center downtown, there're some pretty lovely shops around that area, I'm pretty sure you'll find something, I'm sure your friend, Francesca will help you." Hughes replied, before taking his leave. Francesca nodded her head, and smiled sweetly, "We'll go dress shopping after dinner, Muriah." Francesca replied.
After dinner, Francesca, Muta, Todo, and I all decided to head downtown to the shopping center, in the hopes of finding me a dress for tomorrow night. I don't know why, but, for some reason, I really wanted to look good for Colonel Mustang, I mean, in the event that Hughes' plan even worked. Eventually, Francesca, and I set our sights on the perfect dress shop, and without hesitation, we began searching for the perfect dresses, both for her, as well as for me. By the time Francesca had found her dress, an hour had already passed, and it was starting to get late, and as it was, I still hadn't found my dress yet. "Hey, Muriah! Take a look at this one!" Francesca called, as she pulled me over to the most beautiful dress I had ever seen. It was an ocean blue dress with a blue sapphire at the chest, it had white trim at the bottom, and came with a light-blue shall that went around my shoulders. I gasped, and ran into the dressing room, and quickly changed into it, before coming out. Francesca's face lit up, and her brown eyes filled with tears, as she gazed at me. "Oh, my god! Muriah! You look so beautiful! Oh, Mustang is going to love you in that dress." Francesca replied, as she looked me over. "You really think so?" I asked, blushing a light shade of pink. "Absolutely." She answered. "Well, guys it looks like we've found Muriah's dress." Came Todo's voice, as he too looked me over. "You look so pretty, Muriah. Mustang's one lucky bastard to be going to the Military Ball with a girl like you." Todo replied. "You really think that?" I asked, looking at him. "I know so." Todo answered. "All grown up. I'm proud of ya, kid." Muta replied, as he walked up to me, and placed a hand on my shoulder. "Th-Thanks, Muta." I replied, tears coming to my eyes. "Aw! She's crying!" Francesca replied, as she placed both of her hands on either of my shoulders. "I'm just happy." I replied. I walked back into the dressing room, and changed back into my clothes, folded, and gathered my new dress in my arms, and headed to the register, where Francesca paid for my dress, and her own, and Todo and Muta paid for their suits, before we all headed out.
Once back at Central, Francesca, and I rushed to the barracks, where we stashed our dresses, and by then, it was already 9:00 p.m., it was late, and Francesca, and I still had to finish our preparations tomorrow morning before the Ball. Todo, Muta, Francesca, and I all got ready for bed, and each of us cuddled into bed. "Hey, Todo? I thought you were supposed to be in the barracks with Hughes' group, so, what are you doing in here with us?" I asked nonchalantly. "Oh, well, after what Duke did to you, I talked with Hughes, and asked him to have me moved to Colonel Mustang's group. Mustang said he didn't have a problem with it, and just like that, I became part of this group. And you know what? We've been together all this time, we may as well stay together, right?" Todo asked, smiling. "Yeah." I giggled. "Hey guys, all of us have got some serious resting to do, the Military Ball's tomorrow, and we need plenty of rest." Francesca replied, smiling sweetly. "Yes, Mom." Muta replied sarcastically, causing himself, Todo, and myself to laugh. "Muta, don't make me have to come up to that top bunk, and drop you on your head. You'll get to know the floor if I have to come up there." Fracesca giggled. "Heh, heh, you know she'll do it, too. Francesca's been raising a group of kids, especially, with you around." Todo snickered. "Hey, watch it, bird-brain, don't make start doin' jumpin'-jacks on this top bunk. I'm heavier than you, and I'll send this top bunk crashin' down on you." Muta retorted. "Well, at least you finally admitted to being a fat-cat." Todo retorted back. "You betta watch it wit da fat jokes!" Muta retorted, Todo was really starting to annoy him. "Alright, that's enough, boys." Francesca replied, as she sat her book down beside her bed. "Yeah, settle down, boys." I teased. "Don't you start with me." Muta retorted again, this time, looking up at me. "Muriah, no one needs a hero." Francesca replied. "Yes, Mom." I retorted. Francesca, Muta, Todo, and I all laughed.
"Having fun?" Came a familiar voice, as we all turned to see both Colonel Mustang, and Major Hughes standing in the doorway to our barracks. "Oh, hi!" Francesca greeted. I blushed, as my eyes fell on Colonel Mustang who was looking dead at me. "Hey, Muriah, did you get what you needed?" Hughes asked, and I nodded my head yes in response. "Good." He replied. "Cause, you've got a date tomorrow night." Hughes replied again. My eyes widened in shock at what he meant. 'So, that's why he's got Colonel Mustang with him! He actually succeeded in setting me up with Mustang! Oh, my god! What do I do, what do I say?!' I thought, my blush deepening, as my thoughts became more, and more frantic. "Ooo, Muriah' got a date!" Francesca teased. "Shut-up!" I retorted, as I threw a pillow down at her, she giggled. "U-Um, thanks Hughes." I replied, my heated blush never fading from my cheeks. "No problem. Just make sure you hold up your end of the bargain, you know my services don't come cheap, especially this one." Hughes replied, winking at me before taking his leave. "Muriah." Came Mustangs voice, as he called my name. "Yes?" I answered. "Make sure you're ready two hours early, I want to take you out to dinner before the Ball tomorrow night. Is that ok?" He asked, looking at me with those beautiful, cobalt eyes of his. "Y-Yes." I answered, trying to sound confident, (and failing miserably). Colonel Mustang grinned at me, "Good." He replied, as he walked into the barracks, and stood on the edge of Francesca's bed, and reached his hand up to gently cup the side of my face, before pressing his soft lips to my cheek in a soft kiss, his lips lingering there for a minute or two before he pulled away, gently stroking my lips with is thumb. "I see red." He whispered, as he kissed my flushed cheek again, before pressing his forehead against mine, his cobalt eyes looking deep into my blue ones. "Goodnight." He whispered again, before his head separated from mine, and he stepped down from the edge of Francesca's bed. "Sorry, Francesca." Mustang replied. "Oh, not a problem, Colonel." Francesca replied, as Colonel Mustang took his leave. "Lights out, guys." He replied, flipping the light switch off with his finger, after casting one last glance at me. With that, Colonel Mustang took his leave.
"He likes you." Francesca replied. "No, he doesn't. He could be acting like that because Hughes asked him to, or just because he knows the Military Ball is tomorrow night." I replied. "Muriah, you're an idiot. Colonel Mustang does like you. I mean, isn't it obvious? He kept staring at you the whole time he was in here, he climbed onto the edge of my bed just so he could get to you, and kiss you not just once, but, twice on the cheek, he even had his hand at the side of your face. For a guy who 'doesn't' like you, he sure is paying an awful lot of attention to you." Francesca answered. "She's right, Muriah. And it wasn't just his actions that gave it all away, it was the look in his eyes as he left the room, his eyes never left you." Came Todo's voice. "So, you guys really think he likes me?" I asked, lightly brushing my fingertips over my cheek where Mustang had kissed me just moments before. "Muriah, he's in love with you. Now, it's up to the two of you to make it all happen, and the Ball is the first step." Muta half-muttered, he was beginning to drift off to sleep. "I guess, you're right." I replied. "Of course we are, now, get some sleep, Muriah. We've got a big day tomorrow, and you've got a big date tomorrow night...With Roy Mustang." She giggled. "Yeah." I whispered, and with the image of Colonel Mustang's face in my mind, I drifted off into a deep sleep.
The next morning, I awoke to the sounds of the birds chirping, and I gazed around me to find Muta, Todo, and Francesca all still sound asleep. 'What time is it?' I thought, as I glanced around the room, before my eyes finally landed on the clock. It was only 7:00 .a.m., still early. Figuring that I wouldn't be able to go back to sleep, I decided to get up, and maybe take a walk around central for the morning, at least, until Francesca, and the boys got up. So, with that, I carefully got out of bed, and quietly got dressed, making sure to leave a note for my still seeping friends, before walking out the door. Once I was far enough away from the barracks, I started to hum a familiar tune, as I wandered through the hallways. I headed up a familiar flight of stairs, and came to a stop just in front of Mustang's office doors.'I wonder if he's even in his office. Maybe I shouldn't' I thought, as I placed my hand on the door.'Whatever. I'll just stop in, say hi, and leave. Get in, get out. No harm there, right? Ok, here goes.' I thought, as I pushed the door open, only to meet a familiar pair of cobalt eyes, as they looked up at me from a small stack of paperwork. "GoodMorning, Muriah." Came a familiar voice, as Colonel Mustang looked up at me from his stack of paperwork. "U-Um. GoodMorning, Colonel Mustang, I-I just came to say Hello. U-Um, anyway, you look busy, I should leave you to your work, sorry if I distracted you." I replied nervously, as I turned to take my leave. "Hold it." Came Mustang's voice, stopping me dead in my tracks. "Y-Yes?" I stammered, blushing slightly. "I've got time, why don't I take you out to breakfast?" Colonel Mustang asked, rising from his seat, behind his desk.
"Oh, u-um, Colonel Mustang, are you sure? I don't want to distract you at all, I-I know you've got a-lot of work to do." I replied, as I watched him put on a black jacket. "I wouldn't've offered if I was busy, Muriah. Besides, I've got to get to know the young woman I'll be having an my arm tonight, and taking her out on a date is a great way to do it." Mustang answered, placing a gentle hand at my lower back, as we both left his office. "Shall we?" He asked, offering me his arm, I smiled, "Yes." I answered, gently taking his arm, the two of of us exiting the building. My eyes widened in shock, as Mustang had had a car ready, and waiting to take us on our early morning date, "You ready?" Came Colonel Mustang's voice, as he opened the door for me, and allowed me to step into the car, and sit down. He made sure I was comfortable, before shutting the door, and walking to the other side of the car, where he entered, and sat down on his side, next to me. "Take us to the Shopping Center." Mustang replied. "You got it." Came a familiar voice, as I looked up to see Major Hughes sitting behind the wheel of the car. "Hughes?!" I exclaimed, causing both Mustang, and Hughes to laugh. "Yup. Didn't think I'd have my eye on ya, did you? Yup, I'll be driving you, and Roy around today." Hughes answered, smirking devilishly. "B-But, what are you doing here?" I asked, a-little shocked, and startled. "Come on, Muriah. I gotta make sure you hold up your end of the deal." Hughes answered. "I see. So, you're spying on me. Come on Hughes, have a-little more faith in me than that. I told you I'd hold up my end of the deal, you should take my word for it." I replied, Hughes chuckled. "Oh, I don't doubt you'll hold up your end of the deal, I just don't trust that you won't get nervous, and wimp-out on me, and I'm not even going to give you that chance, especially, after all the work I to put into this just to make this happen." Hughes responded. "I-I won't wimp out." I muttered, more to myself than to anyone else. "Uh-huh, I'm sure." Hughes replied, chuckling at me.
"You shouldn't tease her so much, Hughes, she seems like a strong girl." Came Mustangs voice, as I felt him place his gloved hand over my own. I blushed, as he laced his fingers with mine. Colonel Mustang seemed to catch this, and he lifted my hand to his lips, gently kissing it, causing my blush to deepen, he only smirked. Before long, the car came to a stop, and we found ourselves at the Shopping Center. Mustang released my hand, before exiting the car, walking around the back of the car where he opened my carside door for me, before offering me his hand. I gently took his hand, and he helped me out of the car. Suddenly, I tripped slightly, and landed against his chest, Mustangs arms wrapping securely around my waist. "I-I'm so sorry." I replied, blushing as I looked up at him. "It's not a problem. Are you ok?" He asked, helping me regain my balance. "Yes, I'm fine." I answered, as I felt his hands slip from my waist, causing shivers of pleasure to run up, and down my spine. "Thankyou." I replied again, as I regained my balance. "Anytime." Mustang replied, offering my his arm. I gently took Mustang's arm, as we began walking into the Shopping Center. I looked over my shoulder briefly to find Hughes watching both Colonel Mustang, and I, a smirk on his face, as he watched the two of us walk away together, mouthing the words, "Good luck.". I nodded slightly, and smiled briefly at him before turning my attention back to Mustang. 'Thanks, Hughes.' I thought, as Mustang, and I walked throughout the Shopping Center together.
"Hey, why don't we stop here for breakfast?" Mustang asked, as he led me into a really nice restaurant. "Wow, Colonel Mustang, this place is amazing, and its so pretty." I replied looking around. "Oh, Colonel Mustang! What can I do for you, today?" A waitress asked, as she got out two menus. "Table for two." He answered. "Right this way, sir." Came the waitress' reply, as she led us to a red curtain, and behind it sat a very nicely decorated table in front of a bay window. My eyes widened slightly. "Wow." I muttered, more to myself than to anyone else. "Here you are, Colonel Mustang, your own, private table." The waitress replied, before taking her leave, closing the curtain behind her, leaving Mustang, and I alone...Together. "Muriah." Mustang replied, as he placed a gentle hand over my own, as it rested on his arm. Mustang pulled my chair out for me, and allowed me to sit down, before gently pushing it back in for me, and taking his seat across the table from me. I watched, as he slipped his black coat off his shoulders, and placed it at the back of his chair, before slipping his white Alchemy gloves off his hands. I blushed, and my eyes darted down, as he seemed to catch me staring at him, he chuckled, and grinned at me, his cobalt eyes seeming to never leave me.
"So, Muriah, what do you think of this place? I wanted to take you somewhere with a more private atmosphere where we could talk, and get to know eachother." Mustang replied, his attention focused completely on me. "I like it. It's actually really beautiful here, and it's really quiet, and peaceful. I have to admit, I absolutely love the bay window. Ever since I was little, no matter where I was, or where my family took me, I remember always looking up at the sky, or looking out of a window. I remember always feeling a sense of freedom, as I gazed out at the sky, I guess, you could say, back then, the sky was always my safe place. Even if my body couldn't escape, my thoughts could. I also remember always being so jealous of the birds." I replied, my thoughts seeming to take me away. "Why?" Mustang asked, his cobalt eyes never leaving me. "Because, the birds could fly wherever they wanted to at any time, they were free. They had nothing holding them down. I think, even to this day, I'm still so jealous of the birds. Call me naive, but, sometimes, I wish I had wings." I answered, tucking my raven-black hair behind my ear. "Because, then, you could go wherever you wanted to. You're a free spirit. That's understandable. Someone with a free spirit like you always longs to be free. And you value your freedom above all else." Colonel Mustang stated, watching me, as my eyes came back down from the blue sky, and landed on him, he was smirking at me, I blushed. "Actually, you're only half-right. Although I do value my freedom above all else, there's something I value even more." I replied meekly. "Oh? And what's that?" Mustang asked, casting a sly smirk at me. "Love. I think the only way I'll ever give up my freedom is if I can truly be with the one I love." I answered, blushing a deep shade of red. "And why's that?" Mustang asked again. "Because once I'm truly happy with the one I love, who loves me just as much, then, that for me, will be true freedom. That day, Love will turn into Freedom." I answered, as I looked out at the sky again.
I sighed, as Mustang said nothing, he only appeared to be studying me. "I know, sounds hopelessly romantic, and naive, doesn't it?" I asked, giving a false, but slightly nervous laugh. "Not at all. I think everyone's entitled to their own beliefs, and yours just happen to be the poetic feelings in your heart. Right now, you're only telling me what's in your heart, you're speaking your mind. I admire a woman who's courageous enough to actually have faith in her own beliefs. I see nothing wrong with that." Mustang answered, drawing yet another deep blush to my flushed cheeks. "Thankyou." I answered, Mustang nodded. "You know, you're very poetic, and your words are really quite beautiful. Have you ever written poetry of your own before, because, if so, I'd like to see it." Colonel Mustang replied. I nodded, "No, and whenever I have, I've never usually considered any of it to have been very good, so, naturally, I destroyed it." I answered, gasping slightly, fearing that I had said too much. "You really shouldn't be so critical of yourself, just because your writings aren't good to you, doesn't mean they won't be to someone else." Mustang replied, gently placing his hand on top of mine, causing me to blush. "You really think that?" I asked, he nodded. "I do. Which, is why I want you to promise me that if you ever write any more poetry, good or bad, I want you to share it with me. I'd like to listen to the sound of your voice, as you read your own poetry to me." Mustang replied, his voice gentle, as he looked deep into my eyes. "I promise." I answered, lacing my fingers with his, Mustang smiled.
"U-Um, Colonel Mustang-!" "Roy." He chuckled. "What?" I asked, slightly confused. "My full name is Roy Mustang. Lieutenant Colonel is just my Military rank." He answered. "Oh, d-did you want me to call you that?" I asked, blushing slightly at the thought of being on a first-name basis with him. Roy looked up at me with those beautiful, cobalt eyes of his and smirked at me. "I do." He answered. "U-Um, ok, Roy it is then." I replied, giggling slightly, Roy continuing to hold my hand. The rest of our date consisted of Roy, and I getting the chance to know eachother better, we talked, we laughed, and we even flirted with eachother, on occasion. The only time he ever let go of my hand was while we were eating, then, once we were done, he went right back to holding it again, our fingers laced together. Not long after, Roy paid the check, and we both headed out, and walked around the shopping center some more. We walked side by side, with me taking Roy's arm our fingers lacing together, and remaining that way, and on occasion, Roy would give my hand a slight squeeze, as if to reassure me that he was still with me.
We stopped at a jewelry store, where Roy bought me a sterling silver necklace with a sapphire in it. "Roy, it's beautiful." I replied, as he slipped it around my neck. "Yes, beautiful." Roy sighed, as he gazed at me. "I-I was talking about the necklace." I stammered, blushing slightly. "And I was talking about you." Roy replied, wrapping an arm around my waist, and slipping a gloved finger under my chin, as he forced me to look at him. "Roy, I..." I whispered, as Roy lent in, and pressed his lips to mine in a passionate, yet, sweet kiss. He tasted like Fire, not smoke, but, Fire, like raw power, and passion. At first, I was shocked, and a-little surprised, but, within seconds, I relaxed into the kiss, and kissed him back, wrapping an arm around his neck. Now, I honesty don't know exactly how much time passed, but, eventually, Roy, and I separated, slowly breaking the kiss, our foreheads meeting, as we panted for breath. "Wow." I whispered, completely blown away by Roy's kiss. Roy smirked, and kissed me again, but, this time, the kiss was short. Roy paid for the necklace, and the both of us headed out of the jewelry store, with me wearing the necklace he got me around my neck with pride. We walked side by side, this time, Roy wrapping his arm around my waist, and holding me close, as we walked, and talked. We stopped at a small icecream stand, sharing an icecream cone, which, lead to us sharing icecream kisses.
Hours passed, and Roy decided to take me out to lunch, as well, and this time, he decided to take me somewhere different. During our second date that very same day, Roy, and I talked, laughed, flirted, and even shared a few kisses. I can honestly say that I had never been so happy being with anyone before, but, with Roy, I felt so completely happy, and every time we kissed I can swear, time stopped for me, I just couldn't get enough of this man. I loved the way he held me, the way he talked to me, and oh, the way he kissed me, Roy kissed me a-lot that afternoon. Eventually, it came time for us to head back to the car, the Military Ball was in three hours, and we had to get back. As we left the shopping center, Hughes pulled the car up. "Hey, how did it go?" He asked, smirking, as he noticed Roy holding my hand. Roy helped me into the car, before getting into the car himself. I moved closer to him, cuddling up to him slightly, Roy taking my hand, and holding it, his thumb gently stroking the back of my hand, before he laced his fingers with mine. "Muriah." He whispered, causing me to look up at him. Roy softly kissed my forehead, before kissing my cheek, then, his lips moved down to capture mine, as he slipped a gloved finger under my chin. The kiss was fiery, and passionate, and I shivered, as I felt his hot tongue lick my bottom lip, asking for entrance. I allowed him, and parted my lips, allowing Roy to slip his tongue into my mouth, his tongue gliding effortlessly over mine, and I moaned slightly into the kiss, as his tongue twirled with mine. A couple of minutes passed, and Roy slowly broke the kiss, a small trail of saliva following the parting of our lips. He gently stroked the side of my face, and looked deep into my eyes, before giving me another quick kiss, he moaned slightly into the kiss, as if he were enjoying the taste of my lips, before he broke the kiss again. Roy, and I gazed into eachother's eyes, before Roy broke the gaze, and looked at Hughes. Hughes looked at the both of us, a sly grin on his face, "Where to, Colonel?" Hughes asked. Roy cleared his throat, "Back to Central." He answered, his voice firm. "You got it." Hughes replied, as he set the car in motion, and with that, we headed back to Central, with Roy, and I cuddled up to eachother in the back seat. I felt so safe with him, and his body felt so warm against mine, it felt so right.
Once we reached Central, Roy got out of the car, before helping me out of the car, catching me in his arms, as I tripped again. "I can swear you're doing that on purpose." He teased. "Just can't keep your hands off me, can you, Colonel Mustang?" I teased back, a small grin playing on my lips. "I thought I told you to call me Roy." Roy chuckled, as he began tickling me. "Roy! Ah! Ha, ha!" I giggled, falling into Roy's arms, as he stopped tickling me, before leaning down, and kissing me passionately. "Come on, you two love birds. Don't forget, you two still have a romantic dinner date, and the Military Ball is in three hours. You guys can flirt, and kiss eachother then. But, for now, you guys'll have to wait until then." Hughes replied, as Roy, and I separated. "He's right, I still have to get ready for you." I replied, quickly kissing Roy on the cheek before walking up the stairs to the main building. "And I you." Roy replied, as he watched me leave. 'I Love You.'
I quickly ran up the stairs, and into the main building, before sprinting down the halls, and into the barracks, where I ran into Francesca, who was in her dress, and busily doing her hair. "Hey Muriah! Where have you been? You said you were just going out for a walk." Francesca replied. "Must've been one hell of a long walk." Came Muta's response, as he lightly teased me. "She was with Colonel Mustang. Weren't you, Muriah?" Todo asked, as he stepped out of the bathroom in his suit. I blushed like ten different shades of red. "Oh, my god! No way! Details!" Francesca all but hollered. I blushed, and smiled, as I stepped into the bathroom, and changed into my dress. "Roy took me out on not just one, but, two different dates. He took me out to breakfast, then, we walked around, stopped at an icecream stand, and finally, he took me out to lunch. He also took me to a jewelry store, where he bought me a necklace, and...He kissed me." I answered, as I stepped out of the bathroom, my heart fluttering my chest, as I thought back to the kiss Roy, and I shared. "Oh, my god! You guys kissed?! He kissed you?! Did you kiss him back?!" Francesca asked excitedly, blushing. "Yeah, I kissed him back, and we even held eachother's hands. We also cuddled in the car on the way back to Central. He kissed me a-lot today." I replied, smiling happily. "Aw! Muriah, that's so romantic! You really got lucky with Colonel Mustang! I wish you two nothing but the best!" Francesca replied happily, as she wrapped her arms around my neck, and hugged me. "Thanks, Francesca." I replied, hugging her back. "Now, let's get your hair all done. We have to make you look absolutely gorgeous for Colonel Mustang." Francesca replied, as she began delicately brushing out my long, jet-black hair. She placed a blue headband on my head, and made sure that my long hair cascaded down my back, and a small amount of it tapered over my shoulders. "There. You're ready for him." Francesca replied, gently stroking the side of my face with her hand.
"Not yet." Came Todo's voice, as he placed a an orange rose in my hair. "And..." Francesca replied, as she placed a light pink lip gloss over my lips. "There. Now, she's perfect." Todo replied, as I rose out of the chair that Francesca had me sitting in while she had been doing my hair. "Muriah, you look so beautiful." Todo replied, wrapping an arm around me, as he tenderly hugged me. "Good luck, Muriah!" Francesca replied, as she wrapped her arms around me, and hugged me. "Make sure ya take the breath out of his lungs when ya kiss 'im." Muta replied, snickering lightly. "Muta!" Francesca scolded. I giggled, as I watched my three best friends quarrel amongst themselves. Suddenly, we all heard a gentle knock at the door, as a very tall, and very muscular man stood in the doorway. He had blue eyes, and a blonde handlebar mustache. "Yes?" I asked. "Forgive the interruption. I am Major Alex Louise Armstrong, and I've been sent by Lieutenant Colonel Roy Mustang himself, to fetch Miss Muriah. I am to escort her to him, he's waiting out front for her." The freakishly huge man, Major Armstrong, replied, offering me his arm, as I approached him. "Good luck, Muriah. We'll meet you there." Francesca replied, and with one last glance at my three best friends, I left, Major Armstrong leading me to the front of the building. I too a deep breath, as Major Armstrong placed his hand on the door. "Are you ready?" He asked. "Yes." I answered, as Major Armstrong opened the door, and escorted me down the stairs, making sure that I didn't fall. As I made my way to the base of the staircase, there, waiting for me stood Roy Mustang, his raven-black hair combed back, his bangs out of his face. He was dressed in his Blue Military Uniform, and decorated on his chest were his stripes, and a couple of his medals that he had earned. Across the other side of his chest was a white ribbon. He looked so handsome, and he looked absolutely amazing.
Roy offered me his hand, and I gladly took it, my hand slipping from Major Armstrong's arm. Roy gently kissed my hand, and brought his gloved hand to the side of my face, and gently stroked my cheek. "You look so beautiful." Roy half-whispered, as lent in, and gently kissed my cheek, I blushed. "And you look so handsome." I replied back, as I lent up, and gently kissed his soft lips, he chuckled. "Roy." Came Hughes' familiar voice, as he handed Roy a red rose with a white Ribbon tied to the stem. "This is for you." Roy replied, as he handed me the beautiful flower. "Roy, it's beautiful! Thankyou. You're so sweet." I replied, gently stroking one of the petals with my fingertip, blushing slightly. "That rose may be beautiful, but, it's not nearly as beautiful as you are." Roy whispered, as he lent in, and gently kissed my lips. I smiled as Roy helped me into the car before getting into the car himself. This time, he moved over, and sat closer to me, and I cuddled up to him, my head resting against shoulder, Roy resting his head on top of mine. "Give me your hand." He whispered. I gently slipped my hand into his gloved one, as he laced his fingers with mine. "That's my girl." Roy whispered, as he wrapped his other arm around my shoulders, and gently ran his fingers through my hair. "Roy." I whispered. "Muriah." He whispered back. I heard Hughes chuckle, as he started the car, and with that Roy, and I were off on our sunset dinner date, and after, the Military Ball.
It wasn't long before we reached our destination, and Roy helped me out of the car. "I'll be waiting for you two in the parking lot." Hughes replied from the driver's seat of the car, Roy, and I nodding to him, before he pulled off. Roy offered me his arm, and I gladly took it. He took me to the same restaurant we went to for breakfast just this morning, and once again, Roy was given his own private table, where he pulled out my chair for me, allowing me to sit down, before pushing my chair back in, and taking a seat across the table from me. This time, the table was decorated with a white tablecloth, and had been sprinkled with red rose petals, and a rose sat in a vase at the center of the table, and next to it, sat a small candle. I was mesmerized by how romantic the table setting was, I mean, I had never been on such a romantic date with anyone before, other than Roy, that is. "Roy this table is beautiful, and very romantic. You didn't have anything to do with this, did you?" I asked slyly. Roy took my hand, and laced his fingers with mine, grinning at me, "Maybe." He answered, as he brought my hand to his lips, and kissed it, I blushed. The rest of our date flew by without a hitch, as Roy, and I talked, laughed, flirted, complimented eachother, and kissed, he even offered his fork out to me, and fed me a bite of his food, and I did the same to him. After dinner, we shared a very romantic desert that consisted of an icecream sundae drizzled with warm chocolate. After desert, Roy once again paid the check, and we both headed out, it was time for us to head to the Military Ball. Hughes already had the car pulled up, and Roy gently helped me into the car, before getting into the car himself. As Hughes drove us back to where the Military Ball was, Roy, and I cuddled close together. Roy had one arm wrapped around my shoulders, his gloved hand lightly stroking my hair, whilst his other one held my hand, our fingers laced together, as his head rested on top of mine.
"Muriah?" Came the familiar sound of Roy's warm voice, as he called to me. "Yes?" I answered. "Are you nervous?" He asked. "A-little." I answered honestly. "Muriah, look at me." He replied, releasing my hand to gently slip a gloved finger under my chin, as my blue eyes met his cobalt ones. "Just remember, I'm right here." He replied, before gently kissing my lips. "I know I'm safe as long as I'm with you." I answered, Roy grinned, and kissed me again. "Good answer." He stated, as he broke the kiss, that same grin never leaving his face. Eventually, we made it to the Military Ball, and Roy helped me out of the car, offering me his arm, and I took it. "I'm gonna park the car. I'll meet you guys in there." Hughes replied, before pulling off to park the car. Roy escorted me into the building where we met up with Muta, Todo, and Francesca. "Muriah! Hi!" Francesca replied, wrapping an arm around me. "Hey, Francesca!" I replied excitedly, as I gently hugged her back. "Wow, you two look happy." She replied, grinning, as Roy wrapped an arm around my waist, and I placed a hand at his chest. "We are." I answered, looking into Roy's eyes, as he held me close. "Very." Roy answered, as he gazed into my eyes, and gently kissed my lips. "Aw! You two are too cute." Francesca replied, I laughed, and Roy chuckled.
The peaceful sound of soft music began to hover through the air, and Roy offered his hand to me. "May I have this dance?" He asked, grinning that trademark grin of his. "Yes." I answered, as I took his hand. He led me out to the dance floor, and wrapped one arm around my waist, and took my hand with the other, I placed my other hand on his broad shoulder, and let him lead me, as we danced. "Just follow my lead." He whispered, as I lost a step. "Sorry, I'm just not used to dancing, I-I don't dance often." I stammered, blushing in embarrassment, Roy chuckled. "I can see that, which, is why I said follow my lead, and so far, it's working." He replied, lightly teasing me. "You're such a tease." I teased back, as he lowered his head to my ear, and whispered, "You have no idea." I blushed a bright shade of red at what he meant. "I see red." He chuckled, looking at me. I lent up, and kissed him lightly on the lips, as we danced, Roy never losing a step. I broke the kiss, and looked up at him, smiling triumphantly, as I noticed a light shade of pink on Roy's cheeks. "What was that one for?" He asked, grinning at me, and regaining his cool composure. "For teasing me." I answered. "Oh, really?" He replied slyly, as he pulled me closer to him, and kissed me back, his kiss hot, passionate, fiery, and intense, causing me to close my eyes, a faint shade of red staining my already heated cheeks. Roy slowly broke the kiss, and grinned at me, "Now, we're even." He replied. "Roy." I whispered, wrapping my arms around his neck, and hugging him, as our dance finally came to an end. "Muriah." He whispered, as he wrapped his strong, muscular arms around my waist, and held me close. I felt a small tear streak down my face, as I felt my heart swell with so much passion, and love for this man who now held me in his arms.
Roy pulled away, and lightly brushed his gloved finger over my cheek, wiping away my tear. "Muriah, what's wrong?" He asked, looking at me. "Nothing. I'm just really happy." I answered. Roy smiled, placing his gloved hands at either sides of my face, before leaning in, and lightly kissing me. "So am I." He replied, as he broke the kiss. "Come on, I want to show you something." He replied, gently taking my hand in his, and leading me out of the building. Roy led me to the back of the building, where we could see the sun setting over an absolutely beautiful lake. "Wow, Roy, it's beautiful." I replied, as I watched the sun begin to set. "Yeah, beautiful." He answered, I could feel his cobalt eyes on me, and I blushed, as I looked back at him. He leaned in, and kissed my lips, once again, the taste of fire emanating from his lips. I broke the kiss, and shivered slightly, crossing my arms over my chest, and rubbing my arms with my hands. Suddenly I felt a familiar warmth cover me, as I turned to see Roy with is arms wrapped around me, and his head cuddled into the curve of my neck. His body felt so warm, and his hands felt even warmer, as he slowly, and gently, rubbed my arms. I leaned into him, and just enjoyed the feeling of him holding me.
It was then that I remembered my deal with Hughes, and I blushed as I realized that both Roy, and I were completely alone. I took a breath, 'Ok, moment of truth.' I thought, as my heart began to race. "U-Um, Roy?" I stammered. "Hm?" Came his response, as he began trailing kisses up, and down my neck, I moaned slightly. 'Roy, how can I tell you when what you're doing feels so good?' I thought, as I reached up, and placed my hand on the nape of his neck, encouraging him to continue, which, he did. "Roy?" I half-whispered, attempting once again to get his attention. I felt him grin against my skin, before he stopped briefly to answer me, "Yes?" He answered, before trailing kisses up, and down my neck again. "Um, there's something I have to tell you." I whispered, moaning slightly, as he found my soft spot. I felt him grin against my neck, as he continued trailing kisses over my soft spot, making my body quiver slightly in need. "What is it?" He asked, finally ceasing his attack on my neck, as he cuddled his head against my neck. "I...I-I..." I stammered. "Yes?" Roy asked, urging me to continue. I sighed, "Roy Mustang, I'm in love with you. I love you." I replied, my body trembling with embarrassment. Suddenly, Roy turned me around to face him, and kissed me very passionately on the lips, his tongue sliding into my mouth, and twirling with mine. I moaned into the kiss, his addicting taste seeing to drive my body wild, as wrapped my arms around his neck, Roy wrapping his arms tightly around my waist, as I deepened the kiss slightly. God, he tasted like Fire, and I loved it!
After a minute, or two, Roy slowly broke the kiss, a small trail of saliva following the motions of our lips separating. "The feeling's mutual, Muriah." He whispered, gently kissing my lips again, before breaking that kiss, as well. "Roy, I love you" I whispered. "And I love you, Muriah." He answered, as we shared another passionate kiss. At last, Roy Mustang, the Flame Alchemist, and the man I've always admired, was finally mine, and mine alone. 'Roy Mustang, I love you.' I thought, as our lips separated. "Come on, let's go back in, I want to have one last dance with you, before the night's over." Roy replied, gently taking my hand in his, and lacing his gloved fingers with mine, as he led me back inside. Roy, and I shared a few more dances, and even a few more kisses that night, and I can honestly say that I never been happier than I was with Roy.
Eventually, it began to get late, and both Roy, and I decided to leave. Roy decided that he would drive us back to central, and after getting the keys to the car from Hughes, who decided to stay at the Military Ball awhile longer, Roy helped me into the passenger's seat of the car, before getting into the car himself, starting the car, and driving us back to central. It wasn't long before we had arrived back at Central, and Roy followed me down to the barracks, where I headed into the bathroom, and changed out of my dress, and into some more comfortable clothes. I removed the light pink lip gloss from my lips, the rose from my hair and my blue headband from my head, as I walked out of the bathroom. "That was fast." Roy commented, grinning at me, as I folded my dress, and placed it the edge of my bed. "You should pack an overnight bag." He stated, as he watched me quickly brush out my hair. "Why?" I asked, looking at him curiously. "Muriah, I want you to stay the night with me tonight. At least, if you don't mind, that is." I stopped, and thought about it, a deep blush coming to my cheeks. "Are you sure it's ok, Roy?" I asked, not wanting to impose on him. "I wouldn't've offered if I wasn't." He answered. "O-Ok." I stammered, as I packed an overnight bag, making sure that I had everything before, slinging it over my shoulder. I grabbed a pen, and a piece of paper, and left a note for Francesca, Muta, and Todo, explaining to them where I was going, and that I was gong to be fine. With that, Roy, and I left the room, and walked down the darkened hallways of Central, before exiting the building.
Roy helped me into car, before getting into the car himself. He turned the key, and started the engine before driving towards the place he called home. I have to admit that even though I loved Roy, and even though I had gotten to know him quite well, I was still nervous to be going to his house, and staying the night with him, although, the thought of sleeping in the same bed with the man I loved was really nice. 'I can't wait to go to sleep wrapped in the warm arms of the man I love.'I thought, as I gazed out the window, my heart pounding in anticipation...