Thank you to everyone who added this to their alerts and those who reviewed, and for continuing to stick with this. I'm currently trying to fathom out where I'm going with the plot of this story, and now have a few ideas of a subplot to complement the main plot. This chapter became particularly troublesome, as at a few points I became completely stuck with how to have these two interact! Most of this was first completed on paper rather late at night! I hope to have the next update completed sooner than this one was.

EDIT: To timeline. I really should have thought of this sooner, but Fuhrer Bradley really needed to be defeated, because he was onto Roy and his subordinates. Fuhrer Haruko will have taken his place as Fuhrer, and is suspicious of Roy because of his supposed involvement in Bradley's death.

Disclaimer: I do not own Fullmetal Alchemist!

The next day Edward was grinning from the moment he awoke. A date with Roy Mustang! Ed admitted that while he was excited, he was also a little scared and apprehensive. In the office they had managed to find a few things to talk about to get them through the night, but would things be the same on a date? Or would they find themselves with absolutely nothing to say to each other? Edward sighed and sat up in bed with resolve. He had to make this good: it may be his only chance to impress Mustang and secure a second date. He had decided last night that he would need some help. His brother Alphonse was asleep when Ed had got home late the night before, but he should be awake now. Ed knew if he wanted to catch his brother before he left to search for a job he would have to get up early, so he had set his alarm for 8am.

Yawning, Ed rolled out of bed and stumbled sleepily into the kitchen, where he waved at Alphonse, who was making coffee.

'Your up early brother, don't you need to sleep ready for work tonight?' Alphonse queried, but at the same time moving to make Ed some breakfast.

'Well…' Ed started, a little unsure of how to proceed. He slumped down at the table in contemplation. Al usually had to drag him on dates, how would he react knowing that Ed had gone out of his way to find his own date?

'You didn't get fired did you?' Al rounded on Ed, dreading that his brother had finally pushed poor General Mustang to his limit. He hoped not, because although Edward frequently gave the man hell, Ed's wages were the only thing paying the bills right now. Until Al managed to find a job of his own that is. Although Al may tease his brother sometimes about quitting the military, they both knew the importance of Edward holding onto his job.

'No, no nothing like that!' Ed protested hurriedly, and then added, blushing slightly, 'I have the night off tonight… for a date'

Al was pouring the coffee as Ed decided to speak. His mouth hung open in shock and the mug he was filling overflowed. Realising his mistake when the hot coffee scalded his hand, al yelped and stopped pouring, using a quick wipe of a cloth to clear up the mess and running his burning hand under cold water, pouting.

Ed watched on, bemused by his little brother's reaction. Controlling his snickering, Ed moved to his brother's side.

'You ok Al?' he asked, leaning against the counter casually and taking a sip of coffee in an attempt to wake himself up.

'I'm fine, really' Al confirmed, as the water soothed the pain. 'What about you though? Do you seriously have a date tonight or were you just messing with me?

'I'm not messing with you' Ed griped, having woken up some. The reality of the situation was setting in. This was his one chance to impress Mustang. 'I have a date tonight…Only… this person means a lot to me, so I was wondering…' Damn, he hated asking people for help, but still, this WAS his brother, and he really had no choice if he wanted Roy to like him. Summoning all his courage and promising to boost his ego with some sparring later, Ed continued. 'Will you help me? I have no idea what to wear, how to act, what to talk about… And I really want this to go well and…'

Al sighed, trying to make this easier on his brother. 'Ed, you're rambling.'

Ed stopped himself, took a deep breath and said 'I'm sorry Al, I know I am. I'm just nervous. This isn't like a battle where I can control the outcome using alchemy or fighting techniques. I have no idea what to expect. What if they don't like me?'

'I'm sure they'll like you well enough as long as you be yourself' Al started, and, realising that his previous attempts to set up his brother meant no where near as much as this did to Ed, groaned lightly and continued. 'Well… maybe with a few changes… like eating nicely for a change. No one likes a slob… and you can't go out dressed like that!' With that, Al motioned to his brothers usual work attire - tight leather pants that left little to the imagination, a black shirt, covered by a black coat, then covered again by what was now a very beaten up red jacket.

'What's wrong with what I'm wearing?' Ed protested, looking down at himself. It was practical in his line of work to dress like this!

'Nothing' Al shrugged. Ed's eyes lit up with hope, but Al continued 'If you're working. That kind of getup isn't exactly flattering.' In fact, if Al was honest, and wanted to be smacked upside the head, he would say that Ed's current getup made him look short, childish even. If Ed was going to impress this date, he needed to dress more appropriately.

'So you'll help me?' Ed interrupted eagerly. After all, he wanted to emphasise his best assets on his date with Roy, whatever Al thought they were.

Al pretended to seriously consider his brothers question for a moment before replying 'Ok. You have to promise to tell me all the details when you get home though, that is if you get home'

Al watched with amusement as his brother blushed as red as his jacket. 'Al!' he yelled, chasing his brother around the kitchen table. After all, this was only a first date, and only in Ed's dreams would Mustang want to take things further. It was going to be a long day.

It was two hours later when Edward and Alphonse Elric arrived at the shopping district of Central. Ed gazed around in awe at the multitude of shops and knew at once that he was in over his head. He had no idea where to start! Al however weaved his way confidently through the milling crowds of people towards a shop labelled 'entral' clothing, the 'C' having given up on life long ago. Normally this would have put Edward off a shop; after all, if the upkeep of the outside wasn't good, then the inside was bound to be the same. However, he had faith in his little brother, who had obviously been here before, and always managed to look dateable. Inside, Ed had never seen so many clothes in his life, with the exception of perhaps the inside of Alphonse's wardrobe. Ed groaned in trepidation as he glanced around the store. He knew shopping would be an essential as he had nothing of his own that would be good enough for tonight. Tonight was special.

Of course, Edward had contemplated asking Al to borrow the same clothes that he had worn on that fateful double date, but decided against it. If he was honest, those clothes drowned him a little, because Alphonse was taller than him. Not that he was short or anything, Al was just taller. He muttered angrily to himself in denial. Roy had already seen him in those clothes anyway.

Sighing, Ed realised that he had been left behind, Alphonse somewhere halfway across the store already, carrying a huge bundle of different coloured clothes. Ed moaned in disgust as he spotted orange. While he dearly valued Al's opinion in this, he didn't want to wear orange. He didn't want Al to make him look ridiculous. Still, for a boy who had spent most of his teenage years inside a suit of armour, Alphonse had amazing taste in clothes.

Ed followed quickly after his brother, hoping that this would be over quickly; after all, he still had to prepare himself for his date tonight.

Five hours, thirty shops and five takeaway noodles later

To say Edward Elric was mad would be an understatement. Alphonse had taken forever in deciding what would be best for him and now, as a result of this, Edward had only a few hours left to get ready for his date. He knew he'd have to calm his temper down before then, but how could he not be angry? Al had tried to buy him eye shadow. Eye shadow was girly… and those girls working in the shop had laughed at him!

'Brother, brother, wait please!' Al called, trying to catch up with Ed, who moved rather fast for someone so short. 'We still haven't found a necklace for you. I think something silver would go great with your shirt!'

'We don't have time Al! I don't want to be late!' Ed pouted, considering for a moment. 'Can't I just transmute something? There wasn't anything I liked in those shops.' Ed shuddered at the memory. All of those shops were rather feminine. While Al didn't seem to mind wearing that stuff, Ed didn't see himself wearing anything with flowers or kitties on it.

Al groaned at that. His brother had weird taste when it came to transmutations. Still, he supposed it would show that quirky personality of Ed's in a way that hopefully wouldn't be that noticeable. They did need to get home quickly after all. Al knew his brother would need to calm down both his temper and his panic before he left. 'What did you have in mind?'

Grinning, Ed pulled some metal from his pocket and clapped his hands together, transmuting the metal into a silver pendant. Al looked it over in awe as the light from the transmutation faded. Amazingly it wasn't all that bad. 'Ok, I'll let you wear that' Al agreed, ruffling his brother's hair playfully, as they walked down the street towards home. Ed hated it when he did that. It reminded him that he was shorter.

Roy Mustang hated to admit it, but he was slightly nervous. This wouldn't be the first time he had made promises when he was tipsy. Now he had a date with a short-tempered, short blonde teenager. Still, he had been rather bored as of late and he admitted, lonely. At least this evening with his work colleague would help take his mind off his rather troubled love life.

When he had first awoken that morning he had seriously considered calling the whole thing off, however, he figured that doing so would seriously damage his working relationship with Fullmetal. It wasn't as if he had anything better planned for that evening at any rate. If he cancelled tonight he was likely to end up with a black eye courtesy of the blonde's automail, and Edward would never speak to him again. Breaking his promise to take Ed out would be unacceptable in Ed's eyes. The Eric's always kept their promises after all. He would humour Edward's request for a date tonight, and when he finally proved that they weren't well suited, things would hopefully return to normal.

Roy spent his day relaxing around his house in his underwear researching some new techniques for his infamous flame alchemy and nursing a slight hangover. Breda had a fabulous taste in scotch, and he vowed to find out where his subordinate had gotten hold of that bottle. Roy had fully anticipated his first lieutenant phoning his house to complain about his impromptu day off work, so he had conveniently knocked his phone off the hook on his trip to the kitchen to make breakfast. He really didn't feel like explaining himself, or being shouted at. Chances were he would feel the wrath of one blonde tonight already. Two in one day would be just too much.

Lunch had been a simple affair, and pretty soon Roy was lost again in his research. It was only when the clock chimed six that he realised he had only 45 minutes left to get ready before he had to leave to pick up Edward. It took Roy half an hour to shower and find something suitable to wear, and another five minutes to fix his hair. Roy took a good look at his reflection in the mirror and ran a hand through his hair, mussing it gently so that he now looked rebelliously sexy. It was now that he began to feel the nervousness. He felt that this was mainly because he had no idea what to expect from the evening. He was flattered that Ed liked him, and if he was honest, the blonde wasn't that bad looking. Roy had never really considered guys before in a romantic way, not since the disaster with Maes in boot camp. It wasn't as if he was completely against the idea of being with another man, he had just been hurt before.

Putting his nervousness aside, he grabbed his car keys and headed for the door. Well this was it, he thought, as he left the house and headed to the car.

Al poked his head into his brother's room. Ed was pacing holes in the floor.

'Brother? It's almost seven' Al reminded, thinking that Ed should really be heading to pick up or meet his date by now.

'I'm going' Ed replied, grabbing his keys on his way to the front door of the brothers shared flat.

'Brother' Al called, catching Ed's arm as he opened the door. 'Just be yourself. Don't be nervous, you'll be fine.' He encouraged, privately worried for his brother, who wasn't exactly great at socialising. He hoped for Ed's sake that this went well.

He saw Ed nod nervously. 'I'll see you later Al!' he waved as he excited the flat. Stepping out onto the pavement, Ed fiddled with the hem of his shirt. He trusted that Alphonse had made him look ok. It was time to lock away his nervousness and make this date count. 'This is it' Ed thought, as Roy's car approached him where he stood on the sidewalk.

Roy's headlights illuminated a figure standing on the side of the pavement, all in black, gold hair pulled back into a high ponytail. He pulled up beside the blonde and before he could open the door for the blonde as he normally would when on a date; Edward had opened the door himself and slid into the passenger seat beside Roy. From a gap in the window of Edwards flat, Alphonse cursed, his plan to get a glimpse of his brothers date foiled.

'Hey' Ed greeted, trying not to be nervous. 'Thanks for agreeing to this'

'Its no problem' Roy replied easily, putting the car into gear and moving the car into the road again. 'Nervous?' Roy asked, noticing out of the corner of his eye that Ed was wringing his hands together in his lap.

'A little' Ed confirmed, cursing Roy's ability to always see through him. It was hard for him to think of something to say to the man, usually they traded insults.

'I don't bite' Roy joked, trying to lighten the mood a little.

It worked somewhat, and Ed laughed. 'No, but you do flame!' he joked back.

Roy smirked, 'Only when I'm working' he replied, and he saw Ed smile a little, happy that Roy didn't consider this date as a chore.

'So where are we going?' Ed asked, looking out of the window and trying to determine their current location.

'It's a secret!' Roy proclaimed, tapping the side of his nose with his forefinger.

Ed shook his head in amusement, smiling as he turned to the window to watch the world go by. Five minutes of companionable silence later the car pulled into the parking lot of a stylish restaurant. Ed got out of the car and glanced around the immediate area. Large, detached houses lined the lit up streets, surrounded by well kept gardens. The place Roy had chosen was in the middle of a long street, with few connecting roads. The restaurant itself was small yet attractive, and gave the impression of being a small business. Concluding that this was a fairly upmarket area of central, Ed stood facing the restaurant. Roy joined Ed, standing beside the boy looking amused. Ed felt the need to explain his through assessment of the surroundings.

'It's a force of habit' Ed explained, gesturing around the area. 'I like to know where all the exits are, where any possible materials for use in transmutations are and what type of layout the area has so I can respond better if I'm attacked'

'That's rather sensible coming from you' Roy replied, surprised that the blonde knew how to plan and use tactics. After all, based on the damage reports Roy had to sign off every time the blonde was on a mission, it seemed as if all Ed did was go into a situation, alchemy blazing, and blew things sky high. He realised that if Edward didn't plan, his expense reports could be a lot higher. He realised though that lately, Edward's expense reports had contained nowhere near as much damage as they had when he was younger.

'It saved my life on a number of occasions' Ed agreed. 'I do try and minimise the damage caused, but I feel that saving my life and the lives of any civilians is more important than property damage'

Roy was momentarily surprised by Edward's maturity, before he shook his head in amusement. He was learning new things about the blonde alchemist already.

'Shall we go inside then?' Roy asked, and Edward nodded, falling into step beside Roy as they headed towards the restaurant.

'So what kind of food do they serve here?' Ed asked, tempted to breach the gap between them and link hands with Roy. He thought perhaps it was too soon for that, so instead shoved his hands in his pockets. He was rather hungry: it wasn't often he left dinner until this late in the evening.

'Steak mainly' Roy admitted. 'Though there's a selection of other options available' Roy had picked this particular restaurant mostly because Ed had seemed to enjoy the steak house that he had been in a few nights ago with Alphonse. He at least wanted Ed to enjoy himself. Roy opened the door and held it open for Edward absentmindedly. Ed grinned, both at the choice of food, and at Roy's date like behaviour.

'Steak is one of my favourite foods!' Ed exclaimed easily. After all, this was the truth. He looked around in awe as he followed Roy into the warmly lit foyer.

Roy relaxed in the familiar environment. The restaurant was decorated in reds and gold's, rather reminiscent of the colour of the clothes Ed usually chose to wear. The lighting was perfect, designed to be not so light as to blind the patrons, but not so dark that you had to squint to see. The seating was arranged to ensure privacy, each table was evenly spaced across the floor to give enough room so that conversations could not be overheard. Yet from every table in the building, the detail of the decoration could be appreciated, particularly the golden chandeliers that hung from the ceiling, sparkling beautifully against the red background. Roy always felt at peace here, he often came here alone after a stressful day, just to relax and unwind.

Roy turned sharply when a glimpse of gold caught his eye, and for the first time that evening Roy really looked at his date. Edward had removed his coat and hung it limply over his right arm. Roy barely registered the waiter who took both of their coats and headed off with the promise of finding them a table. Roy's attention was captured by Edward. The boys golden hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, yet his fringe still framed his face and emphasised the golden hues of his eyes, which sparkled in the light as he observed his surroundings. Roy's eyes travelled southwards to the boy's torso, which was adorned with a well fitted blue shirt, the colour of which, Roy realised, matched the hair ribbon that bound Ed's hair. The shirt was long sleeved, covering Edwards automail arm and accentuating his well built torso. Roy noted with interest that Ed was not wearing his usual gloves, leaving his automail hand exposed to the world. Roy was fascinated by that arm, and many times had wanted to ask Ed if he could take a closer look. This was purely professional of course. The only thing that stopped him was the boys temper. It was amazing how much movement and power Ed could get out of that arm. Roy found himself wondering if that hand could be gentle too.

Ed had left his usual black leather pants at home in favour of a pair of white designer jeans, which fit his lithe form rather well. A black belt enclosed Ed's waist and from that hung a silver chain going into a pocket that Roy could only assume contained the boys state alchemist pocket watch. Roy noticed that Ed was wearing the same boots he usually wore, but he found that he didn't mind. He couldn't imagine Fullmetal in anything more formal. His eyes were drawn upwards again to Ed's face, and it was then he noticed a pendant hanging from his neck. It was shimmering in a similar style to Ed's automail. Roy vaguely recalled that Ed had the same symbol on the back of his red jacket. On closer inspection, Roy saw that the serpent's eye was the same golden colour as Ed's own eyes. Roy blushed as he realised he had just checked out his subordinate and liked what he saw. Belatedly, he told himself that a relationship couldn't survive on looks alone, and he wasn't going to use Edward like he did most of the people he went out with. If he didn't get on with the blonde, it was over. He supposed though, that he may find they got on better than he imagined.

Ed finished scanning the restaurant quickly. It was fancy, and he usually despised anything fancy, yet somehow he felt right at home. Perhaps it was because he always dressed in the same colour red as the wallpaper, and his eyes matched some of those gold colours perfectly. He wondered if Roy had chosen this place purposely knowing that. He blushed at the thought of Roy being serious about this date. Ed furtively stole a glance at the man who was his date for the evening. Roy Mustang always looked good, but tonight, seeing the man out of uniform, Ed thought that Roy looked gorgeous. Mustang wore a long sleeved white dress shirt, and he had left the top two buttons undone to give anyone looking a teasing glimpse of the broad chest beneath the shirt. Ed felt the desire to run his fingers over that chest, and quickly shook his head in an attempt to shake his blush, before turning his attention to study the rest of his dates outfit. It looked like the man didn't favour accessories, but he really didn't need any. Roy's black trousers fit him exceptionally well and matched his obsidian eyes and dark hair. Ed watched as Roy looked around the restaurant nostalgically. Roy had defiantly been here before, and Ed decided to ask the man about it once they were seated. Removing his coat and hanging it over his arm until the waiter came to take it away, Ed stuffed his hands in his pockets as he waited for the man to return and show them to a table. He felt someone watching him, and looked up cautiously before realising to his delight that Roy was checking him out.

'See something you like?' Ed asked amused and feeling rather confident seeing the way Roy was looking at him.

Roy appeared flustered when he realised he had been caught staring. Normally he would have been more discreet, but he had lost himself to thoughts of him and Ed, together. Regaining his composer, Roy responded honestly, 'Yes, you look different'

Ed faltered a little. He just looked different? Roy saw Edward's disappointment on the boys face. Usually he was much better at complimenting people. Ed was easy on the eye, especially tonight. It was obvious he had put a lot of effort into this. Perhaps it was more difficult because Edward was his young male subordinate.

Either way, Roy decided to swallow his pride and compliment the blonde properly. 'It's nice to see you in something different. You look good' Roy admitted, hoping that Ed didn't take that as anything more than it was. He had seen the boys eyes light up at his words.

'You look good too' Ed complimented, letting his eyes sweep up and down Roy's body a couple of times, in an obvious show of checking him out.

'Don't strain yourself' Roy jested, noticing that Ed had to tilt his head a little to look up at him.

'Who are you calling so short that he couldn't look you in the eyes even if he stood on a hundred telephone books!' Ed yelled, fuming at the insinuation that he was short. They attracted the attention of the other patrons who stared in amusement at the short tempered blond teenager, and Ed began to blush lightly, scowling as he heard one woman mention that parents should learn to control their children in reference to himself and Roy. Damn, he had screwed up now.

Roy was amused that he could still get this reaction out of Edward. He really thought that Ed was going to become stuffy and boring the instant they were on a date in an effort to impress him, but instead the blonde was being the same short tempered midget as always. Roy held his fist in front of his mouth to cover his laughing, but couldn't help himself.

Ed's head shot up as he heard laughing, and turned to see his date struggling to control himself. Ed smiled a little hopefully, as Roy finally composed himself and turned to the waiter who wanted to lead them to a table. Slinging an arm over Ed's shoulders good naturedly, Roy led Ed after the waiter.

'You don't have to worry about it' Roy said, referring to Ed's outburst. 'You're so much more interesting when your being yourself. You're sensitivity about your height is part of who you are, Midget' Roy grinned, hoping to encourage Ed to loosen up a little.

Ed felt pleasantly warm at the close proximity of Roy's body to his own, and felt the familiar anger resurface at the word midget. 'Who are you calling so small that he would get lost in the mechanics of his own pocket watch!' Ed ranted, though the effect as lost as he subconsciously moved closer to Roy. He was disappointed when they finally reached their destination. It seemed management deemed them troublesome to the other patrons. They had been placed in a small booth at the corner of the restaurant, as far from everyone else as possible.

Roy grinned as Ed whimpered quietly at the loss of contact as they both moved to their seats, sitting opposite each other. 'You may be small, but I wouldn't have you any other way' Roy whispered, grinning as he glanced at the other patrons who were looking appalled by their behaviour.

'I'm not short' Ed muttered murderously, but catching onto the fact that Roy liked to tease him. He grinned back, enjoying himself thoroughly, and looked through the menu.

Roy watched as the blonde lounged in his chair, glad that Ed wasn't taking his teasing to heart. Edward was fun to tease, Roy mused, as he decided on what to order. Tonight had already been fairly fun, and he wondered what the rest of the evening would bring.

After they had both ordered and been supplied with drinks, Roy a glass of red wine and Edward a glass of orange juice, Roy turned to Ed with a smile. He nodded, as if confirming some inner plan to himself before musing that asking Ed about his interests was a safe place to start.

'So' he began 'What interests you? Roy figured this question was safe enough, and he really was becoming curious. This date with Edward was turning out better than he had anticipated.

Edward thought for a moment. He had anticipated this question earlier, when he was pondering how the date would go and what they would talk about. He hoped Roy didn't mind him talking about alchemy.

'Well, you already know I'm interested in alchemy' Ed began. 'I love researching new theories, reading all I can on the subject and putting ideas into practice.'

'So alchemy is your hobby as well as a job?' Roy mused 'I was always under the impression that you learned alchemy out of necessity.' To bring back your dead mother and get your brothers body back, Roy thought silently, and knew Ed would get this implication from his statement.

'That's not entirely true,' Ed countered, hoping not to delve into his past too much. 'Before our mother died, Alphonse and I experimented with alchemy because we loved doing so. Our first successful transmutation was when I was six years old.'

'Six?' Roy voiced his shock aloud. Of course he knew the brothers had started learning alchemy at a young age, but he presumed it had started after their mother had died. 'You mean to tell me that you understood alchemy at the age of six?'

'Oh yes' Ed smirked, pleased that Roy found this impressive. 'Our father left a multitude of his alchemy textbooks and research journals behind in his study when he left. Whenever I fought with Al, mom used to shut me in there as punishment. To any other child it would have been an adequate punishment, as the room was filled with nothing but complicated books, but to me, it was like a haven where I could research alchemy to my hearts content. When I felt I understood some of it, I shared my discovery with Al, and we both became intrigued by Alchemy'

'Born a genius then?' Roy joked light-heartedly.

'Inherited from my father' Ed agreed, feeling that at least the man was useful for something, even if he was a washout as a father.

'When I started learning alchemy I was around ten, and I wasn't very interested at all. I was much more interested in fire. My parents arranged an apprenticeship with a local alchemist when I was eleven to try and encourage my alchemy. When I found out my tutor was interested in flame alchemy I developed a real passion for trying it myself. Now, I spend a lot of my free time developing new theories' Roy mused, thinking back to a time when he would rather cause trouble around town than stick his head in a book. Now alchemy was one of his greatest passions, and something he had in common with Edward Elric.

Ed nodded thoughtfully. 'You always did seem passionate about your alchemy' he agreed. 'I remember during my battle assessment your techniques seemed so well practiced. You really knew what you were doing'

'These techniques have seen war' Roy recalled, looking at his gloves 'If I didn't know what I was doing out there I would have died. While what you say is a compliment of my ability, it is also a reminder that this power should be used responsibly'

Ed grimaced, knowing that this was the truth and noting that this conversation had gotten rather dark. 'My mistakes have taught me the same lessons' Ed concluded, and was reminded for a moment of his failed human transmutation. 'Perhaps the state should consider teaching alchemy so that mistakes like ours do not get repeated.'

'That's an idea that would be worth looking into' Roy agreed, thinking that perhaps Ed deserved a promotion. He was loyal, and had good ideas. If Roy were Fuhrer, all his loyal subordinates would get promoted. Unfortunately if he put any of them forward for promotion in his current position, there was a chance they could be transferred out of his command, and he needed people who were loyal to him if he was ever going to reach his goal. 'Perhaps I should put the idea forward at the next staff meeting?'

'And get all the credit for my idea?' Ed scoffed and leaned forward conspiratorially. 'Wait until you become Fuhrer, then you can promote me for my excellent suggestion'

Ed drew back quickly as the waiter reappeared with their order. He placed plates of steak, steaming vegetables and potato in front of each of them and left with a polite 'Enjoy your meals, sirs'

It was then Ed realised that he was ravenous, and that his conversation with Roy had been distracting him from his hunger. He eyed his food hungrily, and glanced up at Roy, who had signalled the waiter to refill their drinks. When their drinks were refilled, Roy looked over at Ed, a scheming twinkle in his eye.

'I'll drink to that!' Roy proposed, referring to Ed's earlier comment and raising his glass.

'To the Fuhrer!' Ed agreed, raising his glass to meet Roy's in a toast, and both men knew that they were not toasting the current Fuhrer.

They lowered their glasses and Ed grabbed his knife and fork and began to eat. Roy followed suit and they both dug into their meals hungrily. Roy looked Ed's way for a while, thinking about restarting their conversation but reconsidered as he noticed the blonde eating rather quickly. He didn't think Edward would be able to hold a decent conversation while shovelling food into his mouth at that speed. Instead, Roy opted for enjoying his meal in the comfortable environment with pleasant company.

When they had both finished eating, the waiter returned to clear their plates and offer them the dessert menu. Both Roy and Ed decided to order dessert, and sat back to relax in their chairs as they waited for their order to arrive.

'So have you brought dates here before?' Ed ventured curiously. This was a very nice restaurant. He might consider bringing Al here sometime.

Roy thought for a moment, and realised that he hadn't. Usually he came here alone, or, when Maes was still alive, the two would come here together after work sometimes. Had he brought Ed here because he was special? No, he reasoned. He had brought the blonde here because it seemed that this restaurant was more to Edwards taste than some of the places he frequented with his normal dates. Of course that meant that he was already sensitive to the blonde's feelings for him. He realised then that he hadn't answered Ed's question yet.

'I used to come here with Maes' Roy said, unable to stop the words leaving his mouth. He didn't want to make Edward feel uncomfortable by bringing up his dead best friend and his demons on a first date. The last thing he wanted was to scare the blonde away. Not now that they were getting on so well.

Ed looked downcast for a moment, feeling guilty for bringing up bad memories for Roy and remembering the time that Roy had withheld the information about Hughes death from himself and Al. To protect him, he realised now of course. Maes Hughes had been very much like a father figure to both Edward and Alphonse. He was always looking out for them.

'He was a good man' Ed murmured, knowing that 'good' really didn't even begin to describe Hughes. He glanced at Roy and saw the pain of loss clearly in his eyes. Hesitantly, Edward reached his hand across the table and took Roy's hand in his own, squeezing gently and what he hoped was reassuringly. Roy looked up, a little surprised by the public display of affection, something that was rarely seen from Edward unless you caught a glimpse of Ed and Al alone together. Roy felt privileged, and relaxed a little, smiling slightly at Ed. Ed smiled back, and Roy found himself getting lost in those golden eyes, leaning his head forward slightly towards Eds.

Roy was jolted quickly back to reality as the blonde jerked his hand away and under the table, blushing madly. Roy reclined his head and looked up to see the waiter approaching with their desserts. Grinning at Ed, who had managed to compose himself, Roy asked the waiter to bring the bill along in about ten minutes. The man served them their desserts, nodded to acknowledge Roy's request, and left to serve the other patrons.

'So…' Ed began, a little unsure of what had just happened.

'Enjoy your dessert' Roy smiled kindly, and after thinking for a bit said 'Thank you'

Ed smiled a little, and began to eat his dessert. 'It was nothing' he replied, and added 'If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here for you'

Roy had begun to eat his own dessert, and nodded in acknowledgement to Ed's offer, not wanting to talk with his mouth full. Ed was perceptive enough to notice this, and continued to eat his own dessert in silence, reflecting on the evening. He wasn't going to hope for too much, but at the very least he had gotten to know his commanding office better. He realised that during his musing he had finished his dessert. Roy had great taste, the food here was excellent.

Roy had also finished his dessert, and was now perusing the bill. He had decided before coming that he would be paying, after all, he always paid for his dates, and Edward was not going to be an exception. This had been an enjoyable evening, and Edward deserved some form of reward for his hard work in the military over the years. He pulled out his pocket watch and stood from the table.

'Shall we go then?' Roy asked Edward, who had noticed Roy getting up and had also begun to stand.

'Yes' Ed replied, and stifled a yawn. Today had been amazing, and he did not want the evening to end, however all that shopping with Alphonse had worn him out. Ed moved out from behind the table and followed Roy over to the desk, digging out his own pocket watch and fully intending to pay. He was the one who asked Roy out after all. Roy reached his hand over and placed it haltingly over Edwards, stopping him from getting out his watch.

'Let me take care of it' he insisted smoothly, and Ed couldn't argue with that. He felt that he had been owed this for years, and who was he to turn down a free meal?

'Fine' Ed pretended to huff, putting his hands in his pockets and glancing around covertly. He heaved a sigh of relief when he realised that the woman who had earlier referred to him as a child had gone. 'Thanks' he added quietly as Roy joined him after paying and they headed outside.

'You deserve it.' Roy offered, as they headed towards the car. 'Despite the destruction you cause more often than not, you have always been a valued member to my team'

'I know' Ed grinned up at Roy. 'Even if the only way you showed your appreciation was to yell at me for blowing things up'

'Well, you do tend to be a little destructive' Roy replied as they reached the car. It was a cool evening, and the skies were cloudy, hinting that perhaps there would be rain. 'Would you like a lift home?' Roy asked as he unlocked the car.

'Yes please' Ed replied quickly, and added 'I only destroy what I have to. I will admit I get a little carried away sometimes, but I only do that to survive'

'I know' Roy replied 'I don't resent you for it.' At least not anymore, he thought privately, now knowing that Ed did try to keep destruction to a minimum. They got in the car and left the restaurant.

The car journey back to Ed's flat was short, and soon he had pulled up in from of the apartment block. Roy turned to look at Edward. When he had first agreed to this date, he had thought it would be easy to convince himself and the blonde that this wouldn't work. However his plan was flawed, and he had found himself enjoying the evening immensely. Edward was not just a pretty face, and Roy supposed if he had thought carefully beforehand he would have realised this. Edward was gorgeous, intelligent, witty, and fun to be around. Roy couldn't think of any other time where he actually felt as if he had connected with a date. Tonight had been the most fun Roy had had since the death of his best friend, and even then, the fun times had been those he had spent with Maes, not with any date that he could find. Roy sighed. He had thought this was wrong, but he didn't want to stop.

'Edward' Roy spoke as the blonde moved his flesh hand to the door handle of Roy's car.

'Yes?' Ed replied, turning to look at Roy inquisitively, wondering what the man was going to say.

'I really enjoyed tonight' Roy admitted, sounding as surprised as he felt.

'Me too' Ed agreed, releasing the door handle from his grasp and turning fully towards Roy, smiling. He had a strong urge to kiss the man in front of him.

Roy gazed into golden eyes that were full of longing, at Ed's long golden hair, and beautiful smile. He couldn't resist Edward any longer; he had to see the blonde again. Reaching over with his left hand, Roy leaned forward and brushed Ed's golden bangs away from his face so that he could see better into those eyes. Cupping Edwards face against his hand, Roy leant down slowly and pressed his lips sensually against Edwards own. Ed was pleasantly surprised, but relaxed into the kiss, reaching his mismatched arms around Roy's neck to entangle in his jet black hair. Ed returned the kiss, pressing his lips back against Roy's with desire. Roy's other hand moved deftly to rest on Edward's waist, pulling the smaller male closer. Experimentally, Roy allowed his tongue to dart out of his mouth and lick at Edwards lips, hoping to be allowed access to taste the boy. Ed obliged, parting his mouth slightly and allowing Roy's warm tongue to slide inside the moist cavern of his mouth and against his own tongue, which stirred in interest. Tentatively, Ed flicked his tongue out to meet Roy's and was met with an indescribably pleasurable sensation of flavours and passion. The two duelled slowly, savouring the feeling. Roy slowly took control of the kiss, and began to explore the inside of Ed's mouth carefully, letting out a moan of surprised pleasure when Ed chose to suckle gently on his tongue. Roy retreated gently and again their tongues met, slowly tangling as they drew away from each other. Their lips met again briefly before they both pulled apart to breath, Roy's hand remaining on Ed's waist. Ed's hands had slipped to Roy's shoulders, a little sigh of contentment leaving his lips. Roy's left hand absentmindedly stroked Ed's face affectionately.

'Wow' Ed breathed out, wondering if he should move away anytime soon.

'Wow indeed' Roy agreed. Ed had summed it up perfectly. 'Would you like to go out again on Sunday?' Roy asked hopefully, when his brain had finally caught up with him. He wanted to see where these new feelings would lead him, and he hoped Edward would feel the same. 'I'd like to get to know you better' he added quickly.

'I'd like that too' Ed murmured thoughtfully, before shaking his head and asking 'Where are you taking me this time?'

'I'm afraid that's a surprise' Roy smiled gently, pulling the blonde close again, this time to briefly meet his lips. 'I'll pick you up at seven again if that's ok with you'

'Yes, that's fine' Ed agreed in a daze, opening the car door. 'I'll see you Sunday' he said, leaning over to kiss Roy softly before stepping out of the car.

'Yes, see you Sunday' Roy replied, and watched as the blonde left to head over to the apartment complex. He watched Ed enter through the door, before driving away, feeling very content. He was pleased he had given Edward a chance. This was looking like a promising start.

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