Disclaimer: I (unfortunately) do NOT own Fullmetal Alchemist or any of the characters. I only am responsible for the (albeit poorly written and devised) plot.

So...

I had to rewrite this chapter. FOUR FREAKING TIMES.

I didn't like the way it sounded…..

I am so sorry for this whole thing. But I want to say thank you to some of the really dedicated readers, and I hope we can still keep in touch or whatever. If- no, when I start a new story, check it out, and review, because I'm gonna miss you all.

This chapter is dedicated to:

KittypowerFTW

greekkittyartemis

blades

Stardot

Bladez

I hope you guys realize that the review and the favorites/follows I receive are the reasons I keep writing. I know I haven't communicated with all of you guys individually, and I hope I eventually get to. If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to PM me, or ask in the reviews.

Even though this story might be ending soon, I've decided to not finish it until my next fic get off the ground

Seriously guys, don't be shy. I don't give a crap if your question is stupid as fuck, or if it's just nonsense.

(WARNING! This chapter sounds kind of sadistic in the beginning, but I didn't mean for it to sound that way.)

I feel kinda bad for torturing Roy so bad… (But only emotionally, don't worry.)

Oh! I almost forgot to mention! I won't be posting for at least two weeks. I'm going back to the Philippines (just to visit), and I might not bring my laptop. I'll keep writing, I promise, but I might not be able to update for a little bit.

And just clarify, if you want me to respond to you, please PM me, or leave a review saying you guy want me to start responding to your reviews in the next chapter. If you PM me, I will definitely respond to you. (Except, maybe not December 22nd to January 5th. I'm not sure yet.)

NOTE: Seriously guys, I NEED new ideas for my next fic. if I don't keep writing, I'm not really sure what I'm going to do with my life.

I also need votes: who wants the fic to end immediately, or carry on for a bit. Since I've tried to incorporate the sequel idea I had (the life alchemy) into the story already, that's not a problem anymore.

I need help from you guys.

Keep calm and quit while you're ahead.

Roy was seriously pissed.

This guy had really upset Riza, automatically making it his problem.

But then Rebecca had come back with a report from the bathroom saying that she thought she'd heard sniffles, Roy had upped the pain.

Riza?

Crying?

Not on my watch.

The second those words had reached his ears, he'd totally lost it. He'd stopped with the fun and games. A line had been crossed, and Roy took it a little bit more than personal.

Both hands, snapping overtime to release Roy's fury, which took the form of flames.

Maes had stepped in eventually, concern for his friend's mental stability winning over the urge to torture this man. Roy had grudgingly agreed, reeling in his temper.

You are soooo lucky that I have a conscience. And Riza would be so upset if I actually killed you… Roy though glumly.

Fine. Roy's merciful side had taken a holiday.

Roy hit him in the back again, and heard a groan. For such an old guy, he had a really high tolerance for pain.

And in the middle of the torture session, he had the nerve to pass out!

Roy was a bit huffy. He'd gone to all this trouble, and now there was an unconscious heap on the table. He impatiently tapped his foot on the floor, waiting for him to regain consciousness.

Maes held out his hand, expectantly. Roy slouched further against the wall.

"Do I have to?" He whined.

"Yes, Roy. Riza wouldn't want you to burn this guy to death. Even though he totally deserves it, I have to make sure you don't leave this building single," Maes said after a sigh.

"Fine," he grumbled as he handed the rumpled pieces of cloth. "I won't burn him anymore…"

Roy strode over to the table.

He drew his fist back, and before Maes could react, he slammed into Samuel's face.

"Wake up! Swear to god, you're already testing my patience!" Roy suddenly felt his arm being held back as he brought it back again.

"Hey Sparky! Calm it down. Riza's gonna kill you, the Fuhrer is over there, and I am personally a little freaked out by this side of you. What happened? You were totally fine ten minutes ago when the interrogation started." Maes said.

"I think he made Riza cry. I'm not letting him get away with it," Roy said, his eyes smoldering.

Maes sighed, smiling.

"I didn't really know if it would ever happen. Even in my wildest dreams, I didn't think you'd get it this bad. You are totally, completely-"

"Whipped! Yes, I get it! Fine, I'm whipped!" Roy cried out, much louder than he had meant to, stomping his foot. "I understand that already! Stop with the 'whipped' already!"

Snickers were heard from the corner where Fuery and Havoc stood. The Fuhrer, having heard noises, and unsure of what exactly had been said, turned his attention to the two officers bickering by the prisoner.

"….I was going to say 'in love' but if you wanna interpret is as whipped…"

"Gah! It's like I'm being reminded every two seconds! I KNOW ALREADY, RIZA HAS ME TOTALLY WHIPPED!" He yelled, immediately slapping two hands over his mouth.

The whole room went silent.

Shit…

The Fuhrer had this weird smile on his face, one that Maes didn't quite understand.

Is he preparing to fire both of them? Shit, holy shit, dammit what am I supposed to do? Maes thought, panicked. They can't lose everything now!

Grumman straightened. He waved over a guard through the glass window in the door, and instructed him to watch the prisoner.

"He is being admitted to prison for life. I've already arranged for transport, and he should be out of here in the next two hours."

He turned to the group. He then pointed a finger at Rebecca.

"You, go find Lieutenant Hawkeye. Instruct her to clean up and report to my office after you. And as for the rest of you…" The gleam in his eye made Havoc nervous.

"Come with me."

Roy was sweating buckets. The eight officers stood at attention in front of the Fuhrer's desk.

Mentally, he was preparing his resignation statement.

Yes, he would resign. For Riza. If it meant she could keep protecting the innocent, like she wanted, he would do it. Sure, he had planned on making changes that would better the country. But just this once, he could be selfish.

And even if it was wrong in the bigger picture, he would do it.

Riza wasn't going to be court-martialed because Roy. He would make sure.

It was his turn to protect her.

"I have recently become aware of a certain situation-" The Fuhrer started, not even finishing a full sentence before Roy interrupted.

He stepped forward.

Here goes nothing.

"Sir, I know that you are well aware of my plans for this country, but due to recent events, I am asking you to carry them out. I know it's not the most dignified request, but if this is what I have to do save Riza the trouble, then so be it. I can safely assume that you have realized the truth about the nature of our relationship. My proclamation in the interrogation room most definitely gave us away, and I accept full responsibility. If it is my pride and reputation that has to suffer instead of her, I can live with that," Roy bravely said. He then visibly braced himself, ready to be fired on the spot.

Rebecca, having returned, sniffled.

You picked a good one Riza. Lucky you.

The Fuhrer chuckled.

"I realized your feelings for her ran much deeper when you reacted the way you did to her storming out. Besides, back at the house, you seemed a little different than how you were back in the old days. Back when we used to play chess, remember?"

Roy nodded mutely.

"I am led to believe that your relationship is somewhat new, seeing that you seem a little flustered during your interactions. That, or you're just really not very good at long-term relationships. But that's beside the point. I see you care about her very much, and I think it is noble how you would step down for her sake. "

He then lent forward on his elbows.

"But this is not a matter that can be taken lightly. Something must be done, here and now."

He cleared his throat, watching Roy jump at the sudden noise.

This young man has proved to be worthy to my Riza. but just one more test..

"What would you give to keep you Lieutenant from legal trouble?" He asked.

"Anything, sir," Roy stuttered solemnly.

Let's see how far he'll stretch.

"Even if it meant not being with her for a while?"

"I'm… I'm not sure I understand your meaning sir."

"I'll make a deal with you," Grumman began, leaning back in his chair. "I believe I've mentioned my granddaughter before. Tell you what, you date her publicly," he stressed the word, "for six months at the very least, and I'll make an exception for you and Riza Hawkeye. You both keep your jobs. But, you don't get to tell her after the six months. You let my granddaughter break it off with you, not the other way around."

Roy blinked.

Wait... what?

"You 'spend one night' with her," Roy opened his mouth to refuse.

What the hell is wrong with this guy? I'm not going to just jump into bed with some random stranger!

"You and Riza Hawkeye could get married, she wouldn't get arrested, and… I'll drop the fraternization law. For good."

Jaws dropped.

He stopped for a moment.

One more term. If he says yes, just to save Riza, I know he's the one.

"And I'll see to it personally that you are directly handed the job as Fuhrer. And all the members of your team and anyone else you want," he swept his arm out in a grand gesture. "Will be working under you. They'll get higher ranking jobs, better pay, and you can live your fairy tail."

No… Way…

He pushed up his glasses.

"But if you refuse, or break my granddaughter's heart, you stick with your job, your title, and your right hand goes back to getting a public shaming and is stripped of her rank, and job." He then stuck out his hand to shake on it.

"All you have to do is date my granddaughter for a month, 'enjoy her company,' and Riza's free. Heart broken, but free. She'll work under you, if she still wishes to. You can start a new relationship with her six months from now. Your ego suffers the consequences from being dumped. What do you say, Colonel? Do we have a deal?"

Roy hesitated. He gave a small smile.

"Break her heart and save her from the shame and a terrible guy like me? I know she loves me, but I won't let her suffer that kind of abuse. I could give others in the military the chance to be together. Besides, she'd be upset if I gave up this opportunity."

"I don't really have to give this much thought."

He grabbed his hand and gave it a firm shake.

"You've got a deal."

"Tonight, I'm having a party. Everyone in the room in invited. After you are dismissed, you will return to your homes and get ready. it's a fancy party, don't forget. When Lieutenant Hawkeye reports back here after you've gone, I will inform her of the party. Dhe will be required to attend. Be prepared to meet your new girlfriend. And break up with your old one."

And with that ominous note, they were dismissed.

Riza came out from the women's room about 4 minutes after her friends had left the premises.

She knocked on her grandfather's door.

"They gone?"

"They've left. They're preparing for the party."

"What party?"

"Oh… I've decided to throw a celebration. I have decided… that it is time for your friends to find out about your family ties within the government," The Fuhrer nervously dais, choosing his words carefully as he went along.

Don't blow it!

"Yeah, it's going to be a fancy party. Dress nice. Now that I think about it; do you even own something appropriate for the event?"

Riza huffed.

"No, now that you mention it, I don't. But, if you'd given me some sort of warning, I might have been able to go and get myself one!"

"Now, now, no need to be testy! I took the liberty of purchasing one for you! I left it on your bed, in your newly re-done house!"

"I'm sorry you did what?"

"Nothing."

Riza rubbed her temples.

"By the way, I found out for sure that your Colonel loves you. I gave him a little test."

"What. Did. You Do?" Riza growled out.

"I just wanted to be able to assure you that he cares about you…"

"Yes, I already knew that! You didn't have to go and… Wait, you never answered my question. What did you do?"

"You'll find out later… That is, if you come to the party. I know that look. You have now been ordered by a superior to attend this party. You have to arrive there before your friends, meaning you have approximately 3 hours. See you then."

Riza waved her hand, a dismissive gesture. Though, she knew that she would show up. Her grandfather was kind of a raging lunatic, but she loved him nonetheless.

"Oh, don't forget, I've been watching Black Hayate for the past week or so. You can pick him up after the party."

She walked away, after snatching the keys to his car that he offered her.

"Riza, do you remember that present your Catalina friend got you..."

"No way in hell."

Roy was starting to panic.

And began preparations for living the next half year alone.

He could imagine her face already, falling as he told her lies. Her crying, storming out, and refusing to ever talk to him again.

His face paled, as his vision swum with black spots. He stumbled, his hip colliding painfully with his open dresser drawer. He cursed, as the sharp pain compromised his balance. He dropped to his knees, holding the throbbing spot on his hip.

Clothes were strewn all over his room, his panic at the current situation making it hard for him to pick a suitable outfit. He stood, swaying on his feet.

The weight on his shoulders was slowly draining the life from him.

Looking down, he saw he was standing on a heap of clothes.

Upon closer inspection, he realized it was a duffel bag. It was nothing special, just a black canvas (or, whatever duffels are made of) bag with a zipper and two straps.

Do I even own a duffel bag?

He pulled the zipper down, and clothes came spilling out as her inverted it.

Clothes.

Riza's clothes.

This opened the floodgates.

He stood, pulling at his hair as he stomped into his bathroom. He shoved everything off the counters, hearing bottles break and plastic bottles half-bounce off the floor. He leant against the sink, in front of the massive mirror.

I CAN'T DO IT!

He slammed his fist into the glass. It shattered under his fist, and the skin on his knuckles broke. He held his hand to his chest, sobbing as he saw different scenarios cycle through his head. And every one of them ended the same way: With him angry, sad, and alone.

Riza looked absolutely...

Wow.

She had pulled the red silk gown over her shoulders, feeling the cloth pouring through her fingers. It clung to her figure, all the way to her hips, and then fell to (about) her knees.

She put up her hair, re-applied her lipstick, and slipped on her heeled shoes.

She looked hot.

I feel like an over-glorified doll.

She sighed, looking at the Christmas present she had left with the tags on and unused.

I'm not gonna do it… I won't. Nope, no, and how about no?

But I'd have to dig all the way to the back of my closet! Everything else is in the wash!

"Swear to god Rebecca, why did it have to be lace?!"

Roy was officially in hell.

His hands had been left with a tremor that refused to go away, whether he clutched them together or sat on them, he couldn't stop shaking.

He felt hollow and empty, nothing containing any meaning anymore.

The car jerked to a stop, and the two men rocked forward in their seats, and then eased back.

Maes kept one hand on the steering wheel, and patted Roy's shoulder with the other.

"Hey, it was a cruel thing he's making you do, but it was the right choice. And who knows? Knowing Riza's lenient tendencies towards you, she might take you back in with open arms."

"No," Roy shook his head, a slow, hopeless gesture.

"This isn't just another screw up in the office, Maes. This isn't me putting off my paperwork to the point of exasperation. This is real, and this is my fault. I chose the deal that's better in the long run. I think that it's proving to be living hell so far, but I'm sticking to it."

"…for Riza."

"You wouldn't have taken the deal if she wasn't involved, would you?"

He shook his head, and Maes heard a throaty, half-amused laugh.

"If I had to choose, I'd stay with Riza forever. I'd quit the military, pass on my goals as Fuhrer, and spend my life with her."

Roy sighed into his hands, knowing that he was coming very close to losing Riza. Just a few moments more...

And at that point, Maes noticed Roy's bandaged hands.

White gauze was wrapped around his right hand, right over the knuckles.

Roy was becoming fidgety, and nervously picking at the frayed edge of his bandages.

Maes pushed the car door out, and smoothed back his hair.

"Let's go. Time to meet the woman who's stuck with your sorry ass for the next six months."

in the garden, Rebecca was hanging off of Havoc's arm, clad in a fitted blue dress. Her hair cascaded to her shoulders in loose waves, and a pair of heeled-sandals were strapped to her feet.

She had her mouth right by his ear, as she whispered, "Do you think Riza's gonna be okay?"

They walked down a winding paved path that ran through out the grassy lawn. In the middle of the square area, a large stone fountain barely took up any space.

Roy's place, compared to this, is practically a doll house!

It was true. The Fuhrer's mansion was ginormous, dwarfing the Colonel's house in size.

Before Jean could respond, her toe caught under one of the cobblestones, and she stumbled forward. Havoc caught her wrist, and pulled her back. Knowing the Fuhrer was close enough to hear her, he mumbled just a few inches from her ear.

"I don't know."

The Fuhrer wandered away, whistling as her strolled through the garden.

That man is a despicable human being...

Rebecca and Havoc continued with their conversation, speaking in hushed tones.

"I'm a little bit more concerned about Roy. I mean, Riza's going to be crushed, but Roy's the one doing the crushing. He's gonna be utterly devastated."

Havoc glared at the lunatic as he greeted Maes and welcomed him into the garden.

And in tow behind him, was a very nauseated Roy.

I'm gonna tell her.

He'd been thinking the idea over, going it over several times. He had finally come to the realization: breaking up with Riza would eventually kill him.

Literally.

Sonner or later, he'd lose the will to live, lose the incentive to keep going. What was the point anyway? Eventually, he'd stop caring about his duties of Fuhrer, and the rest of the world. He'd forget to eat, never sleep.

Or he'd accidentally get himself killed or shot without her watching his back.

He'd already totaled his right hand, and already didn't care.

Though if Riza saw, Roy thought with a grimace Riza would call me an idiot who is incapable of getting dressed for a party without assistance.

She'd probably criticize him on being useless (though, she'd mean it as a joke). Then she'd rewrap his knuckles and feel him everything he'd done wrong.

Riza had saved his life more times than he could count. (Even though he was an incompetent idiot, that was a reasonably high number.)

He was going to tell her.

And then he was going to make her swear to tell no one.

Then she'd know it was an act, she might hate his guts, but at least she would know he really did love her.

As he saw it, there was no possible outcome that was worse than the alternative: actually hurting Riza.

He could maybe survive the look on her face when he did it. He could sort of handle her disgust at him. He could almost survive dating the Fuhrer's granddaughter. For about half a day. If fate took pity on him.

But more than a week? Yeah, don't think so.

Roy let his hands fall limp at this sides, as he realized how the rest of his night would go.

First he'd tell Riza what the crazy old man was making him do.

Then he'd break up with her, shattering his heart in the process.

Next came the part where he'd try and live with the pain and guilt of a future without Riza.

Roy would meet his new girlfriend, and resist the urge to throw up as introductions were made.

At last, he'd go home, drown his sorrows in alcohol (probably vodka) and let his existence spiral into complete and utter misery.

Yep. that sounded about right.

Or, he might just end up spending the whole night crying, curled up in bed like a big baby.

Some hero I am.

But one thing was for sure: He was going to walk away from this mansion with Riza safe, and the fraternization law gone. For good.

God, I'm going to hell for sure.

He turned, his eyes falling on the one person he'd been dreading seeing.

Riza.

Holy...

God….

Riza had her hair pinned up in elaborate curls. Her usual bangs waved over her forehead to the side, golden and radiant.

She twirled around, letting her dress fly out around her.

Her dress was red. Fiery red. Passionate, blooming-roses, vibrant red. A slit running all the way up to her mid-thigh, emphasizing her impossibly long legs. She looked like a woman that could have any guy she wanted, which was (to some extent) was true.

It clung to the upper part of her body, and after her hips, fell in a satiny curtain all the way to just past her knees.

She had pouty red lips, which curled up into a smile when she set her eyes on her boyfriend.

"Roy!" She exclaimed, throwing her arms around him.

His jaw still hung low, not having fully processed the sight of Riza dressed like… that. He spun her in the air, easily supporting her weight. He laughed, and the team discreetly looked over.

Dread, absolute dread washed over the garden. They quietly began to wander in different directions, letting Roy enjoy his last night with his perfect girl. One last night with the woman he loved.

He couldn't stop staring.

Please don't make me do it. Not on a perfect night like this, when she looks like an angel.

When he finally set her back on her feet, she swayed for a moment, not quite used to the sacrifice heels required one to make. She noticed Roy's lack of words, and frowned, looking down at herself.

"I know, I know. It's looks awful, and the make up is too much, I bet my hair is-"

"You look beautiful."

She blinked. And then began blushing a red that rivaled the color of the silk dress the wore.

"Thank you, Roy," she said in a small voice.

He looked at her, seeing she wore a concerned expression.

"What? Is something wrong?"

"I should be asking you the same thing. You seem… off, Roy."

"I promise, I'm-"

"Don't give me that crap. Spill. I want the truth. All of it." Riza had her 'no nonsense' tone, and Roy knew he was in trouble.

Crap.

The remaining group members quickly scattered, leaving the garden entirely. Roy pushed his hair back, exhaling loudly.

He began to speak then, keeping his voice low for this part.

"I have been commanded to break up with you. The higher-ups heard about us and gave me two options. One, keep a relationship with you and have only you court-martialed. Or two, break your heart, I take the position of Fuhrer, and you get to chose whatever job in the military you want. You get to walk free, no humiliation. I have to..."

A strangled voice came out with the next few words

"-Date a nameless someone for six moths, publicly and everything. But I swear, I've never even met her, I don't know her name, and I'm only doing this for your sake. Hell. I wasn't even supposed to tell you."

"…You idiot."

"Riza, I can't just not take the better end of the deal. You get to keep your dignity, your job and the chance to find someone better for you."

SLAP

"Oh god, he's begun," Fuery moaned, covering his face in his hands.

Maes looked over at Havoc, who sat in a chair in the Fuhrer's lavish dining room.

"He's going to lose her this time."

Maria had tears shining in her eyes, as her lips tightened.

I'm sorry. I am so, so sorry.

"OW!"

His cheek stung, and was starting to redden, leaving a mark in the exact shape of Riza's hand.

"You stupid idiot!"

He had his head hung low, as he prepared for her to deliver another blow.

She cupped his face instead, smoothing over his cheekbone with the pad of her thumb.

"Why would you do that? Do you really want to…?"

"What?! No, of course I don't want to leave you! But Riza, think about what would happen to you! You could lose your job, your dignity, or you could lose-"

"I could lose you. Is that what you're telling me? Roy, I'm a big girl. I can handle a little embarrassment."

"Little? A little embarrassment? Riz, you could become the laughing stock of the whole country!"

"I don't care."

"Well I do! Riza, if I can keep you from harm's way, then I'm sure as hell going to do whatever it takes. You'd do the same for me!"

"I'm your bodyguard Roy. Of course I would."

"Forget our positions, our jobs, for just a moment. So, if I was in danger, and you weren't responsible for my safety, and your job didn't depend on it, you'd just let it happen? You would just stand by, knowing you could help me out somehow?"

"Of course I wouldn't! I love you, and it's my job to protect you!"

"Well, I love you too! And as your boyfriend, it's my job to protect you!"

"No, it really isn't."

"Why? Why on earth would it not be my responsibility? People who love each other are supposed to support each other. That's how it works."

"You have more important things to focus on, Roy. You're going to change the country. And now that you're Fuhrer, you can."

"I… I can't do it," Roy admitted. "I can't just let you go. Why can you abandon me so easily? Do you even care?"

"I am not abandoning you!" Riza snapped. "I am giving you up for your own good! I love you more than anything else in the entire world! And I want more than anything, to allow myself to be a little selfish right now. But think of your future, Roy. How can I put myself first if it means denying your dream? Trust me, I'm doing you a favor in the long run."

"My own good? Leaving me heartbroken and alone, you call that a favor?"

"You get the position you always wanted! You'll be the Fuhrer, like you've always dreamed of!"

"And what's a dream without the people I love? Or rather, the person I love? Riza, I'll choose you over Fuhrer!"

Silence.

"What?" Came her strangled reply. "Roy, you can't mean that."

"I do."

"It's not even plausible, Roy. You weren't given another option. At least this way, you get what you want."

"But I want you. I don't care what Fuhrer Grumman threatens me with next but I…"

Riza had fallen into a furious silence.

He...

He said earlier he had meddled, remember? At least, he hinted at it.

No, he didn't...

"Riza?"

"…Grumman. He'd the one that set the deal? He named the terms?" Riza spit through gritted teeth, the question itself practically quivering with rage.

"Umm, yeah. It was him. He's kind of a lunatic, you know. The last part of the deal was, well…"

Riza could tell Roy was reluctant to admit the next part, but she needed to know what exactly her idiot grandfather had tried to set in motion.

"He said I'd have to date his granddaughter publicly for six months. If I broke her heart, the deal was over. And I also had to… uh… 'Spend a night with her' was how the Fuhrer worded it."

He winced, anticipating that he was about to be in serious trouble for agreeing to this.

Riza, however, could care less about Roy's part in all of this. If anything, she was happy he was looking out for her, even though the decisions he made were less than idiotic. He was in his own category of stupid. Honestly...

But another thought was on her mind now.

I...

AM...

GOING….

TO KILL THE FUHRER.

Riza was absolutely seething, her whole body trembling in fury. She kicked her heels off, and let her face twist as she let out a low growl. She looked stunning, and positively terrifying.

"Damn you," Roy heard her snarl before she ran off toward the kitchen. She snatched his hand in hers, dragging him behind her.

What could Roy do? Other than stumble along, heels in hand, as he tried to find a reason as to why he wasn't the one in trouble.

So, sorry this took so long.

But for real guys, I am so happy with all the support I've gotten since I posted the last chapter. I mean, I couldn't believe that so many people actually like the story so far!

Anyway, I'm kind of really super excited for Christmas, and can't wait to give presents. I'm not much for receiving presents, 'cause I never know what to ask for, but your comments, your positive reviews and feedback… I've never received anything better and more meaningful.

Remember, PM me, review, or something, I really love to talk to you guys. Every time I get a new review, I swear I squeal like a teenage girl. (Which I guess, is expected. *hint hint*)

See you around,

-Pyro