Admin: So yay up date! From now on Imma try to calm down on the drama, this chapter as too much of it. So yeah, I hope you enjoy it, it's one of my longer chapters and I put a lot of work in it. I don't really translate the Japanese or French, since we all should pretty much know it. The words are simple and don't need much thinking.

But if you want me to translate I will. Oh an more more thing before you read the new chapter.

I WILL NOT BE HAVING ARTHUR AND ALFRED HAVE A KISS ON PURE WILL. They will have a consensual kiss at the end, after all they are going through, it will make you feel complete in the end.

Now you may read on~!

"HEY PRICK FACE-, I MEAN, PRESIDENT KIRKLAND~!" Alfred sang, skipping into the living room where Arthur sat.

"Really, must you be so annoying?"

"I'm just excited, dude. The Carnival is in a day! And we still haven't picked out our costumes yet! We should totally match and junk!"

"I would, but I fear that you would make me parade in something stupid."

"Aww, come on! Maybe if you heard my idea then you'd totally like it."

"Very well then. What is it?"

"Get this; we can be Batman and Robin. How's that?!"

"Why don't we just dress up as Snow White and Prince Charming? You already talk to animals... Seriously, Alfred? I do not wish to walk around in that. I am not comfortable with wearing spandex."

"Fine then, Mr Picky, what do you want to be?"

"How about a Pirate and a Cowboy? Simple and very common."

"But that's too main stream!"

"Honestly!"

"Come on! Think, old man!"

"I am not old!"

"You're, like, what? Four years older than me? You're old."'

"I am still in my early twenties! That does not make me old."

"Dude, I haven't even turned twenty yet. Oh, I've got it!"

"Oh? And what is it now?"

"We can cosplay! I invited Kiku too, and he's buying his own ticket! He suggested that the three of us should be countries from this anime called Hetalia! I watched it, and it's so awesome and I actually learned a few things."

"How on Earth can anime teach you anything?"

"It's like a crack history anime, that's why! And get this; we all kinda look like the characters! So, I would go as AMERICA! BOO YAH! You can be England, and Kiku can be Japan. The costumes are really easy too; it's just world war two uniforms."

"Hmm…I suppose that sounds alright. It's not too idiotic, and we can just say that we are WWII soldiers."

"Sweet! So, you're in?"

"Yes."

"AWESOME! I'll go call Keeks and tell him the good news! Bye~!" Alfred dashed through the door and proceeded to his own room. About halfway down the hall, he stopped to think aloud.

"I wonder how Toris is doing… I miss the dude. I hope he's alright…Waking up to President Kirkland isn't really ideal. But when Matthew does it, I guess it's okay. When the dude comes back, Imma totally give him the biggest hug ever!" Alfred approached his door, turning the golden doorknob and entering quietly. His pets were resting and he decided it would be best to let them sleep.

Going over to his desk, Alfred grabbed his phone and dialled Kiku's number. He walked to his bed as he waited for the other end to pick up.

"Moshi-Moshi, Kiku desu."

"Yo, Keeks! Artie said that we can all totally do this Hetalia themed thing for Halloween!"

"Sugoi. I am very thrirred (Thrilled) to hear this."

"Yup! I told you the hero got this! Now there's another person to cosplay with us!"

"Hai. Arigato, Alfred-san."

"Yup. So, anyways, how are you? I haven't talked to you in a while."

"I am well. And you, Alfred-san?"

"So much drama, dude, you don't even know."

"May I know?"

"Nah, I can't really tell you."

"Is it about your deal?"

Another one?! Alfred thought in a panic. How the hell is everyone getting this information? Are there spies everywhere? Should I have been more careful and used those skills my parents taught me?

"Alfred-san, carm down. Mr Kirkland, Arthur's otousan, told me everything. Your secret is safe with me."

With a loud sigh of relief, Alfred placed a hand over his rapidly beating heart.

"Dude, why didn't you say so in the first place?"

"I onry just rearned about it."

"Oh, okay then. Well, now that you know, I can tell you."

"I wirr arways risten. It is arways good to get an opinion or help from the outside."

"Okay, so here's the deal. When I went to Dream Land with Arthur, Mattie and Francis showed up. Some kid accidently spilled ice-cream on me, and while he was helping me clean it up Francis told me he knew about our deal. He also said that he wanted Arthur back, and that he would 'take him' from me. Then I was supposed to eat lunch with Arthur, but Francis stole him…

I kind of felt a little strange; my stomach sank like the Titanic. And then Matthew took me out to lunch instead, but Arthur found us somehow and started a big scene. Next, Francis came in and began arguing with me. All hell broke loose and we all started fighting. But then we all settled our differences and made up and now we're going to the Carnival together."

"W-Werr, I must say, that is very…wow. Would you mind if I used your situation in my new manga? It wourd be a good prot."

"Kiku!"

"Gomen..."

"So, what should I do? Ever since then, everyone's been acting weird. I haven't seen Francis in a while, Matthew is acting more affectionate, and Arthur's had his eyes on me like a hawk."

"Werr, I think your problem is simirar to a manga I once read. You must rook for the answers there. It will terr you your past, present and future."

"…Dude, is it just me, or is manga your answer to everything?"

"They arr (all) have very valuable ressons, you know."

"Yeah, I guess…Thanks for the advice. See you tomorrow at the carnival!"

"Hai. Dewa mata."

"Right back at ya!" Hearing the call end, Alfred let his phone fall to the bed. Alfred looked up at the eggshell ceiling and realized that he had almost forgotten he had a place of his own. He went from just being a well off guy to a member of high society, where everything was brand name and done for you. It didn't bother him much, but sometimes he missed his old, simple life.

Closing his eyes, Alfred could clearly imagine being back in his apartment, the smell of McDonald's in the air with the source being a few bags from a day or two ago. He could see his small, green recliner couch nailed down where it was, never to be moved, his TV with all of his game systems surrounding it messily and the cement wall blocking the kitchen off from the rest of the living room.

If he walked down a short hallway he would find his bed, unmade with the blankets in a tight bundle, and the curtains closed forever, preventing light from ever reaching the room. His clothes were scattered around the room, just as he liked it.

Alfred sighed nostalgically. The feeling of abandoning his apartment left a hole in his heart, but there was nothing he could do about it. He had known that a few sacrifices were needed to get his dream job.

He opened his eyes again, returning to his new, luxurious room. Everywhere he looked: the bed sheet, slippers, walls, floor, the cat (in a way), rabbit, and even his door, the color white was there.

He had his own bathroom in this room, and a desk with everything he needed placed on it; it was all too much. Alfred sat up and let out another sigh. He missed his old life, the one he had before he got involved in this mess. If he ever turned back time then he would probably try to get interviewed for a different law firm.

But since he couldn't do that, he had to live with what was happening now. His boss was acting strange, and so was Matthew, and Francis thought of him as a love rival. All three of them were out of character, more so with Arthur and Matthew than Francis. Then again, he didn't know Francis that well.

Standing up again, Alfred walked to his closet and pulled out two costumes; one for Arthur and one for himself. He had known that Arthur would probably say yes to the cosplay idea and had prepared everything in advance. A yawn escaped from his mouth after he set them out for the next day and stretched.

He decided to make his way to the bathroom and started to remove his clothes, leaving on only his boxers and undershirt. Grabbing his red, white, and blue toothbrush and the tube of toothpaste, Alfred started to brush.

Alfred stared at his reflection, his hand stopping. He looked... different. He was, oddly, not smiling, and looked beat-up. He would usually go to bed with a grin on his face and a spring in his step.

Not this time. Alfred had been on his toes ever since Francis showed up. His stomach would flip every time he saw him next to Arthur. One time he had been holding a pencil and ended up breaking it in half. After many times, Alfred began thinking that he was actually jealous of the Frenchman, and maybe felt threatened by him. But Alfred told himself not to let the villain get to him.

After all, he was the hero!

It had also become a habit for Alfred to stare at Matthew and Arthur every now and again. Every time the two touched they would share an instant death glare, and whenever they talked hatred could be sensed in the air.

Shaking himself back into reality, Alfred finished brushing his teeth and went to bed. He landed on the plush, goose feathered pillows and blankets, feeling his muscles relax.

For a brief second, Alfred thought about grabbing his laptop and reading some manga as Kiku had recommended. But an overwhelming feeling of laziness swept through his body, and he ended up deciding against it.

Alfred wiggled his way into the covers, suddenly feeling a pressure on the lower half of his body. He sat up slightly to see James and Abraham.

"You guys couldn't spend a night without me, huh? Especially you, Abraham." He allowed the two to move up onto his pillow, letting out another yawn and snuggling up to his cat. His pet's warmth was the only familiar thing in his life at the moment, and he planned to keep it that way.

Alfred was revisiting his dream land within minutes, letting all of his worries and struggles escape as he slept.

Arthur hummed to himself peacefully, sitting in the living room and sipping tea as he read Twilight. He had stopped himself countless times to ask why he was reading such a book, but continued anyway. About halfway through the book, Arthur felt a buzz in his front pocket.

He grabbed the phone and arched an eyebrow as he read the caller ID. He answered it. Arthur felt his expression soften as he listened to his employee's story, nodding his head with a series of grunts.

"Yes, I understand completely. You may take as much vacation time as you need. I know what it's like to have someone important to you...pass away. Yes, yes, good night to you too, sir." Arthur ended the call with a tap of the screen. He huffed, running a hand through his shaggy hair.

"I feel sorry for him…I wonder if he will be alright. I have been so caught up in my own life that I seem to have forgotten the outside world." He stood up, finding himself walking towards a large painting over the fireplace.

The painting was a simple one of Arthur and his mother. Just glancing at it would make you think it was a photograph. Arthur was about a year old, and he and his mother were posing in the garden of their old house.

Courtney Kirkland's beauty surpassed the flowers. Her emerald eyes matched Arthur's, showing they were related, and her mouse like nose was passed down from most women in her family. Her long, brown hair stopped at around the middle of her back, and Arthur could be seen smiling happily, his arms around her neck.

How long has it been since I've smiled like that? Arthur thought, still staring at the picture. She had been gone for so long, but he could still feel her warm touch on his skin. He could remember how she would always smell of burnt food and the songs she would hum to him when he was scared.

Arthur closed his eyes, bringing a hand up to the painting and imagining her warm touch once more.

"I miss her too." The voice came from behind him, soon followed by Arthur's father. The middle-aged man walked in with his hands in his pockets and had taken one out to point at the painting. He stopped next to Arthur, eyes only for the painting.

"You know, this is my favorite picture of you two. You were both always at your happiest in the garden, talking about faeries," George continued, smiling at his son.
"Why are you here?" Arthur asked harshly.

"This is my home too, is it not? I should have the freedom to roam around it as much as I like."

"…Yes, I suppose so."

The elder sighed and placed a hand on Arthur's shoulder. It was only a light touch, but he could feel his son stiffen immediately. George retracted his hand and looked down sadly.

"Arthur, my boy, why is it that you hate me so much? I was practically your idol when you were little.

"You know why."

"I'm sorry, I can't say I do. Would you care to explain?"

"Don't ask questions when you don't want to hear the answer."

"But I am asking. No matter what it is, I do want to hear the answer."

"Well, in that case, I don't want to tell you. Now, if you will excuse me, I have to get ready for work and a carnival tomorrow." Arthur twisted his body to the side and took a step forward. However, his father wrapped his arms around him before he could leave.

"I'm so sorry, lad. I never meant to block you out like that. Please, forgive your poor father for his foolishness."

"Perhaps you should have thought of that earlier. But now it is too late, I'm afraid." He wiggled his way out of the hug, leaving his father to himself yet again.

Standing there with a broken heart, George looked up at his wife's painting and then back at the direction Arthur took.

"If you cannot love me, then love Mr Jones. He is the only source of love you can get now. You have given up your trust in me, but it seems you have put it in Mr Jones. I hope you realize your feelings before it's too late. You must chase your love and cherish it before it's gone."

Finished with his thoughts, George made his way to his bedroom. He passed his son's room with a heavy heart, then Alfred's. He looked at the doors as he continued forwards.

Now in bed, he stared up at the surrounding darkness, slowly turning to the empty spot next to him.

"Courtney, my guardian angel...Help him, please. If not, then help me give him love once again. I know I've asked you this before, but I will ask and pray until this request reaches God, so please, give Him this message and beg Him for a miracle."

-Next Morning-

Bright and early as usual, Matthew knocked on his Boss's door to wake him up. He waited patiently for a little while before making his way to Alfred's room. Matthew hoped Arthur wouldn't mind if he was the one who woke Alfred up...then again, it didn't really matter to him. He would still see Alfred either way.

When they both left his room, they found Arthur already waiting for Alfred. All three now present, they marched to their cars, ready for work.

Matthew, being thoughtful, made sure that the elevator was empty. He wouldn't want Arthur to figure out Alfred's secret, and he would protect that secret for his friend no matter what. Matthew had done it when they were children, and he would do it now.

They made their way to their desks, not speaking another word.

Time flew by as usual, and it was soon lunch. Alfred quickly gathered his papers into a neat pile before racing to Kiku's desk. It looked like the Japanese man was busy writing something. An article?

"YO, KEEKS! WHAT ARE YOU WRITING?!" Alfred yelled from behind, shocking the Japanese man.

"Alfred-san you mustn't s-scare me rike that. It's, ah… n-not nisu."

"Why? It's fun! Anyway, you never told me; what are you writing?"

"O-Oh, it's..." Think, Kiku, think! "I-It's my manga script. I-I arways write it. This way I-I know where I'm going with it."

"Oh, cool! Anyway, you want to eat lunch and, like, talk and stuff? I'm gonna give Mattie a break. He and Artie are, as you know, acting weird."

"Of course, Alfred-san. Just ret me get my things."

"Hurry! I'm dying of starvation!"

"Hai." Kiku saved and closed the tabs he had opened. He collected his things together before walking with Alfred to the cafeteria.

Okay, now that I have my assignment, I must start gathering more information. My editors wirr be so preased with my progress, not to mention the fact that I practically have VIP access to information. I armost regret w-what I'm doing. But I must do this to help Mei Mei. She has fallen very ill...I hope nothing bad happens…

"Dude, I'm surprised the media ain't on my tail anymore. It's actually nice, but I have this weird feeling that they're planning something, you know?" Alfred said, interrupting Kiku's thoughts.

"A-Ah yes. Be carefur, Alfred-san. Oh, rook, a free table."

"Dude, nice eyes! No offense, but for a second there I thought you had those soulless eyes like Japan."

"Very funny, Alfred-san." Kiku replied politely.

Now at the table, they took their seats and ate their lunch in silence. As their food gradually disappeared, Alfred decided it was time for a conversation to start.

"So, are you ready for the carnival?! Do you have your costume ready?!"

Swallowing the last of his lunch, Kiku cleared his throat before responding, making sure his chances of choking were slim. He placed his chopsticks on the table, grabbing a napkin and quickly wiping his mouth.

"Hai, I do. It did not take very rong to get. It should be in perfect condition right now."

"Sweet, dude! I'm, like, really glad you agreed to come with us! I don't know what I would do without you, bro!"

"You are my friend, Alfred-san," I need the information for my job, "I would do anything to herp you."

"Awwww! I'm so glad I met you, dude."

"As am I. Um, Alfred-san, if it d-doesn't bother you too much, I have a question to ask you."

"Okay, that's fine. I mean, you know everything, so what's there to hide?"

"Ah, yes. Um, what are your feelings towards Arthur and Matthew?"

"Well...Here's the deal; I don't know. With President Kirkland, I feel like I can be an attention hog and only want him to pay attention to me. But I'm the hero, so people should always notice me! And then there's Matthew. He's a nice guy and my friend, but somehow I feel like there's something there."

"So you're confricted."

"Yeah I…I don't think I have feelings for either of them. At least, I'm pretty sure I don't. Sure, maybe a small little crush, but you're, like, allowed to have a lot of those. I mean, falling in love with two guys…that's just some weird anime thing, right?"

"Yes, but the way you're describing it makes it seem that way. I think you're in a rove triangre, Alfred-san."

"W-What?! …Pssh, nah! Dude, I'm not that desirable. Remember, this is all for show! This isn't a manga, Kiku; people don't fall in love like that."

"Oh, but they do. You just haven't noticed," Kiku murmured, sipping his tea.

"What was that?"

"Oh, nothing. Why don't we go out for a rittre (little) bit longer? We have half an hour left before runch is over."

"Sure thing! Just lead the way~!"

"Oh, honestly! I don't even know what I'm doing anymore. This is all too stressful," Arthur mumbled to himself, massaging his temples. The only things that could be seen on his desk were endless stacks of papers and broken pencils. For hours now, Arthur had been stuck in his office, his only visitor being Matthew with his tea.

I should have seen this coming…Why was I so blind? Arthur thought, trying to compose himself. There was just too much. The work load he had put off was incomprehensible, even if he had written half of it.

With a regretful sigh, Arthur sipped his tea again and continued to add to the stacks of paper.

He soon switched on his laptop, wanting to type in the documents so that he didn't lose them. Just as he was about to get to work, his phone began ringing. Arthur rolled his eyes with another sigh, wiping his brow before answering it.

The plastic phone creaked in his grip. "Hello," Arthur managed to say, "President Kirkland speaking. How may I be of assistance?"

"Get into my office. Now," a demanding yet familiar voice commanded.

Throat now dry as a desert, Arthur tried to swallow. That tone was not one to be taken lightly. He had known what it meant for as long as he could remember.

To put it simply, his father was angry.

Arthur stood up with a small stretch before heading to his father's office. His hands now felt clammy, and his movements had become agitated, his footsteps echoing as he neared the office door.

Swallowing his anxiety, Arthur fixed his tie and reached for the knob. He opened the door slowly; knowing that on the other side would be a steaming Brit. Arthur looked down, stepping across the room until he was sat opposite his father.

His father's expression was livid. It almost felt like the man would pounce on him at any second and beat the living daylights out of him.

Arthur hid his fear behind a mask of indifference, taking a deep breath before speaking.

"You wanted to see me, father."

There was no reply. The only noise in the room was a sort of rumbling sound escaping his father's lips.

George Kirkland stood up and walked over to a board. He pulled away the cloth covering it, revealing a chart with an arrow going down.

Oh, this is not good, was all Arthur think. He knew that his work had needed some improvement since the scandal, but not this much. His father folded his arms and Arthur stiffened, expecting the worse.

"Arthur, do you see this?" George said, holding back anger.

"Yes."

"Oh, really now? Then, why don't you enlighten me? What do you see?"

"Progress seems to have gone down."

"Is that so? Now, can you tell me why?"

"Because I was being careless. I let everyone slip during this scandal."

"Exactly. Now, tell me; what, exactly, is going on in your life that had to interfere with your work?

"Nothing..." Arthur spoke hesitantly, looking down. He didn't understand why himself.

He looked up again, and Arthur's face was met with a hand. A loud smack was heard throughout the room. With his hand still extended from the slap, George huffed, observing his son for his reaction.

Tears formed in Arthur's eyes, but he would not let his father see them. He wiped them away quickly, standing up angrier than ever. He couldn't exactly hit his father back, but he also couldn't just stand there and do nothing.

Feeling a lump form in his throat, threatening to release even more tears, Arthur quickly turned away from his father.

"I hate you. Honestly, it was just a slip up."

"Yes, but that 'slip up' has cost us. We have a reputation to uphold."

"And I have a lie to uphold. A lie, may I remind you, that YOU started."

"And what is that supposed to mean?"

"I have been stressed to no end, having to deal with not one, but three morons. And here you are, hitting me and lecturing me on things that I am already well aware of."

"Apparently you were not aware enough. You've seen the charts; it will take at least a month of solid work to build that up again. Not many people want a law firm that just fools around. This isn't a silly grade school where all you have to be concerned about is love."

"Something you're incapable of, I'm afraid."

"Y-You...H-How dare you. Apologize."

"No. You deserve every venomous word I spit at you. You're self-centred, greedy, incapable of love, and most of all, unfit to be a father!"

He was slapped again. Arthur tried to look his father in the eye, but his vision was blurred. Things were escalating quickly, and they could both see it. Arthur stormed out of the office, leaving his father to deal with his anger alone.

Arthur couldn't hold it in any longer. He raced back to his office, hiding his face in his arm so that no one could see he was crying. The office door slammed shut behind him, and Arthur sat down, viciously wiping his tears away.

His nasal cavity started to swell and Arthur could feel his nose running. He knew that he didn't cry like those people in the movies, but he didn't really care.

"I hate you...I hate you..." Arthur chanted in a shaky voice, rubbing his sore cheek. His shirt and sleeves were now stained with tears, and he was breathing through his mouth heavily.

Will no one end this constant pain in my heart? Arthur thought sadly, thinking about Alfred and his father. For some odd reason, he hoped that Alfred would burst in with open arms and comfort him.

But he knew that was not possible. Alfred did not love him, and he did not love Alfred. So what was left for him?

*~Time Skip*~

"President Kirkland~! I got your costume ready for ya!" Alfred shouted, running towards the Brit who had been crying a few hours before. With a soulless glance, Arthur looked at Alfred and then at the costume in his hand.

Still feeling no emotions, Arthur eyed the military uniform. "What on Earth is that?" Arthur asked as he was handed the costume.

"It's your costume, silly! You, like, promised to wear it with me and Kiku. Look, I'm already wearing my heroic costume! Don't I look exactly like America?!" Alfred asked, stepping back to present his uniform to Arthur.

"You look very American."

"Exactly! And you'll look totally British when you put that on! Now, hurry up, dude, before we're late!" He began pushing Arthur towards the bathroom to change, but stopped. He could see dried tear lines on Arthur's face.

A wave of sympathy washed over him and Alfred hugged the Brit, resting his head in the crook of Arthur's neck.

"We all have those days, dude. Don't be afraid to cry in front of me, okay? Remember, I'm the hero and I'll be there for anyone who needs my help. You'll be happier, and as an employee it's always awesome to see your boss smile once in a while." Alfred told Arthur as if he knew what had happened, even though he really didn't.

Alfred released Arthur and pushed him into the bathroom with a sad smile. He had almost forgotten that his boss was capable of human emotions, besides anger. Rocking on his feet, Alfred waited for Arthur to get ready.

Five minutes passed, and there was no sound on the other side. Alfred knocked on the door worriedly.

"President Kirkland, are you okay in there?" There was still no answer, and Alfred repeated the question more frantically.

"I look like an idiot," Arthur said finally, staring at himself in a mirror.

"Dude, you look like you're in the military, so come on! We're already late!"

"Absolutely not."

"Dude, I don't know what upset you, but a night out with friends will make you feel much better."

"I'm not going."

"Come on, Prez. It'll make you feel better, and I promise to spend as much time with you as needed until you feel happier. Hero's honor, dude."

"Come on."

"That's it, I'm coming in!" Alfred leaned back and forcefully kicked the door. A crack was heard as the door connected with the tiled walls.

Arthur stood there, terrified and appalled. Alfred moved towards him and carried Arthur like a fire-fighter would, heading out the door and to the car. Arthur wiggled and hit Alfred in hopes that he would let go, but the American wouldn't budge.

"Unhand me! Do you know who I am?!"

"Yup, you're my boss~!"

"Then why on Earth are you doing this to me?!"

"You obviously need to get your mind off of things, and what could be a better way than going to a carnival with friends, and in cosplay too!"

"I can think of a million better ways."

"Well, too bad!"

After throwing Arthur into the car, Alfred commanded the driver to step on it before Arthur could escape. He leaned back peacefully, watching as Arthur shifted into a proper sitting position.

"You know, Mr Jones, you really must learn how to read the mood. I am obviously too depressed for an outing, but you still insist on me going."

"That's exactly why! You're sad, so you need to get your mind off of things. You know, take a load off. Just chill; you're only twenty-three once."

"True. However, I am content with my life the way it is. To partake in something as childish as a carnival…What would people think of me?"

"Our cover will just be that I wanted to go and you couldn't say no. And how about this? If you don't have fun today, then I promise to do whatever you say until this whole scandal thing is over."

"Oh, really now? Whatever I say, when I say it, and no matter what?"

"Yeah, yeah. I swear on my hero complex, okay?"

"Far deal. Fine, I accept."

"Dude, you're acting like we made a bet. It's just a promise."

"Still, I would like to know that you would actually go through with it."

"Dude, I'm a hero. When I make a promise, I never break it."

"Oh, terribly sorry, I just assumed."

"Don't assume, dude, just go with the flow."

Silence surrounded them. It was not an awkward or angry silence, but a peaceful one. The two of them watched through the windows as the city raced past them, each light blurring into streaks of bright colors and momentarily blinding them. The sound of car horns and people talking on the sidewalk could be heard.

Little kids were roaming around in their costumes and asking for treats. The streets became more and more infested with Halloween decorations as they drove deeper into the city, and the little car came to a stop in front of three familiar figures. Alfred jumped out of the car and tackled Matthew to the floor.

Arthur followed, scowling at Francis as the other blew him a seductive kiss. Kiku greeted Arthur with a respectful bow and hello. Alfred then shot up like a child on his birthday and took Kiku into his arms as well, giving him a firm squeeze.

Alfred also made a move to hug Francis, but when he was about a foot away from him he decided against it.

"So, guys, do you like our costumes?" Alfred grabbed Arthur and Kiku. "We're countries, yo! I'm America, Artie-kins here is England, and Keeks is the homeland of Japan!"

"Y-You guys look g-great," Matthew complimented, fixing the hat of his Mountie costume.

"Yes, très bien. But your drab outfits are nothing compared to my gorgeous vampire costume. Tell me I'm sexy," Francis told the other four, striking random poses.

"O-Okay…? Anyways, why don't we get something to eat before starting the games? I'm really hungry, like, no lie. How about you guys?"

"Y-Yes, I am a little hungry. I agree with America-san," Kiku said, acting like his character.

"Sweet, Japan agrees! How about y'all?"

The other three just shrugged and played along. As they neared the food vendors, Alfred could smell the food he desired so badly, as well as Matthew, Arthur, Francis and Kiku. When they all returned to a table they had agreed to meet at they began feasting on their assorted foods.

They watched the performers and listened to the hustle and bustle as they ate. First, there were jesters who would make them laugh and then a little stage play. Everyone's mood was lightened as they watched each act. Every now and then, Alfred would be approached by a trick-or-treater who wanted candy.

Word somehow got out that he had candy and that immediately turned Alfred into their hero. Eventually, as everyone else continued eating, Alfred was taken away by a sea of kids who acted the same way he did.

Alfred forgot who he was and that he was supposed to be with his friends, having too much fun with people his 'age'. The four left at the table stared, shocked by how popular Alfred was with children. Chuckling, Arthur took a sip of his tea. "Takes one to know one," he muttered, smiling.

Despite how he felt earlier, he did feel somewhat happier. However, the slaps he had received from his father still burned on his skin.

When Alfred finally returned, he was met with deadpanned expressions.

"I'm, like, so sorry! I just got carried away…But, hey, the hero is here, and now you can all have the times of your lives!" Alfred tried to cheer, but the others sighed as they stood up. He ended up leading them to a shooting game, stepping aside so that his friends could see.

"First game of the night and it's on me!" Alfred placed some money on the counter. Picking up the fake guns, Alfred placed one in each of his acquaintance's hands.

"Are you sure this is safe, America-san?"

"Totally, dude! Lighten up."

"Of course the American would pick a shooting game," Francis teased.

"Hey, that's racist!"

"It's not racist if it's a fact."

"C-Can we at least get through this night without fighting?" Matthew asked as politely as possible, still wondering what the plan was. For a while, he had felt that plotting with his brother was wrong. Then again, he also felt that there was no other way to get Alfred to love him.

Sighing and feeling completely pathetic, Matthew aimed and hit the target right in the center, winning a gold fish.

Kiku followed, shooting a little to the side. He won a small bracelet. Next was Francis' turn, and he aimed as best as he could, licking his lips in anticipation as he pulled the trigger. He missed completely.

Laughing inwardly, Alfred watched as Francis blushed in embarrassment. Alfred patted the poor Frenchman on the back before getting ready for his own turn.

"Dude, watch a pro at work." Alfred aimed the gun and pulled the trigger, hitting the target right in the center. But he didn't stop there. He then moved onto Francis', Kiku's, and Matthew's targets hitting each one on the mark.

He blew away imaginary smoke from the gun, giving Arthur a cocky smile.

"I went Merida on you guys! I GET MY OWN HAND IN MARRIAGE! Hahahaha!" Alfred boasted, placing his gun down and cheering.

A strange glint formed in Arthur's eyes after watching the American's actions, and he pulled the trigger of his own gun. Just like Alfred and Matthew, he hit the center and earned himself a goldfish.

"You're not the only one that can use a gun," Arthur informed Alfred, shoving the goldfish in his face.

"Yeah, so? It was a lucky shot, man!"

"Anyway, let's continue with the other games. I feel as though I am about to beat Alfred at his own childish games."

"In your dreams! I bet I can win more games than you before we leave."

"Very well then. If I win, then you have to be my secretary again for a month and Marry here can have a vacation during that time."

"Fine! And if I win, then you have to do something about those eyebrows of yours! Dude, I would be doing all of us a favor, am I right?" Alfred turned to the three behind him, who all nodded shyly.

"Is that what you all honestly think?!"

"Y-Yes...Y-You know...T-They kind of t-take up your face...A-And..." they all muttered hesitantly, not making eye contact with the Brit.

"Let's just go already!"
And the next bet began. The first event was a simple ring toss. Alfred won quickly without any troubles as Arthur cursed under his breath. Next challenge, or game, was balloon darts. Arthur won with his accuracy while Alfred constantly accused him of cheating. After, they went to a rubber chicken toss to see who could get the chicken in the pot. Arthur won, for some odd reason, but his victory was short lived as the pot somehow caught on fire.

As the night carried on, Alfred and Arthur found themselves tied, neck-and-neck. It all depended on one last event. The water squirt was a simple game; the two opposing players would sit side-by-side and aim their water guns at a small target. Taking their respectful seats, Alfred and Arthur both gave each other a cocky smile. The trio behind them watched anxiously.

As they waited for the referee to start the game, Alfred and Arthur continued to stare at each other, fearing that the other would play a dirty trick.

The bell pinged, and they were off. They pressed the buttons on their guns as hard as possible, aiming and watching their meter rise.

They anxiously waited for the results of the contest. It all came down this. The trio behind them watched; Matthew cheering for Alfred, Francis cheering for Arthur, and Kiku cheering for both teams.

They waited and waited until a bell rang; alerting everyone that someone had won. Matthew, Francis and Kiku wore confused expressions. They had been cheering so much that they had forgotten to look at the meter. Who had won?

Looking to the two 'soldiers' in front of them, they waited, hoping to see who had won by the expressions they showed. They moved forward, now able to their faces.

Their expressions were identical, both stunned by how quickly the game had ended. But the Brit and the American knew who the true winner was.

"So, who won?" Francis eventually asked, growing tired of waiting.

"I did." Arthur said with a smug smile. Alfred was now pouting. "Now then, Mr-, I mean, Alfie, this means that you are my secretary for a month. You start tomorrow. Don't worry about your lawyer job, Kiku will take care of that for you."

"No fair, you cheated!" Alfred yelled not wanting to accept defeat.

"You lost, I won. I would never cheat, for I am a gentleman."

"Yeah, one that cheats! You totally started before me!"

"Do you have any proof?"

"...No"

"Then you cannot prove that I cheated. Now that that's done, let's continue on and enjoy the carnival," Arthur suggested to everyone else.

"Oui, mon cher. It is time for the grand finale! Everyone, close your eyes and let mwa lead you," Francis said with a wink and a sassy pose. The others shrugged and allowed Francis to lead the way. They linked their hands and made choppy movements to wherever Francis was taking them.

With their sense of sight no longer working, the three WW2 soldiers and Mountie used their other senses to try and figure out where they were going. Hearing the sandpaper like sound of their feet against concrete, and the chatter of everyone else using the carnival gone, they realized sound would no longer help them.

Next was their sense of smell. All they could smell was carnival food and plastic in the air, also not giving them a single clue. They decided that touch wouldn't be much help either, so they figured that they might as well just go ahead and trust Francis.

When they could no longer feel the Frenchman's arms behind their backs, they began to wonder if it was okay for them to look now.

"Hey, Francis, c-can we open our e-eyes now?" Matthew asked.

"Non. Kiku and Mathieu, you stand here, and Arthur and Alfred, stand over there," Francis commanded, moving the men into the correct spots. "Now, walk twenty paces. Only then may you open your eyes."

"Sounds simple enough!" Alfred began moving twenty paces forward along with Arthur. Kiku, Matthew and Francis did the same. But there was something that the others didn't know…

Francis had brought them into a House of Horror.

Not only that, but he had left Arthur to deal with Alfred's fear of scary things and his claustrophobia alone. He, Kiku, and Matthew had taken a different path, which was shorter than Alfred and Arthur's. It was his grand plan. He knew that Arthur would get angry and ditch Alfred. Alfred would be left screaming and begging for help, and Matthew would swoop in and save him. Meanwhile, he would take Arthur for himself.

As evil and malicious as it was, it was the perfect plan. But Francis didn't realize that things would go wrong in a heartbeat.

"Twenty!" Alfred shouted. "We can open our eyes now, guys!"

"Very well," Arthur replied, opening his eyes with a sigh to see Alfred and dim lighting. Feeling a little suspicious, Arthur started to look around. 'Organs' and fake blood were splattered on the walls. Straight ahead, a battered 'corpse' was sitting slumped in a chair.

Something wrapped around his arm, and Arthur looked down to see Alfred, shivering like a small child would. "I-I don't..." Alfred told Arthur in a shaky voice, squeezing his eyes shut. Arthur took another step forward but could feel Alfred pulling him back.

"Come on, get a move on! Don't act like you're actually scared of all this! I will not be stuck in here for eternity while our friends are outside. The sooner we move, the sooner we leave." Arthur forced Alfred in front of him. Alfred began to walk, but slowed once they reached the body. He manoeuvred his way around it as best as he could, hoping that nothing would pop out.

He sighed in relief when nothing happened, and continued to walk until Alfred was suddenly face-to-face with a 'ghost'. It was too much. Alfred let out a piercing scream. He froze, refusing to move when Arthur, covering his own ears, tried to push him forward.

Alfred wrapped his arms around Arthur, hiding his face in the crook of his neck. Arthur blushed before pushing him off, patting himself down to get rid of any dust.

"Honestly! Stop your pretending, you twit! We've watched thousands of scary movies, and you have never acted like this before. We do not have time to dally around. Now, either start moving, or so help me, I will leave you."

"N-No! I'm not moving, d-dude. Not on your life!"

"Fine then! Have it your way, Mr 'HERO'!" Arthur marched past every 'scary' attraction, making his way out of the House of Horror and meeting the others who were already out.

With Arthur now gone, Alfred tried desperately to find the exit. But he couldn't see it, and he soon felt something inside of him snap. Alfred started to freak out. His brain was now forming an illusion of the walls closing in, his chest feeling heavy as he stood. He eventually collapsed, curling up into a ball in the corner.

Everything was closing in on him, and he was surrounded by everything he feared. Even though he wanted to so badly, he didn't cry for help. He was the hero, he could get through anything. So he stayed in the corner, waiting for everything to be over. But he soon could no longer help it, and started to search for some way, any way out.

He beat the walls and on doors that wouldn't open. The fear of being trapped consumed him, and Alfred could feel his heart rate speed up.

This isn't good, this isn't good!

"Where's Alfred-san?" Kiku was the first to speak when Arthur emerged. He could tell that things weren't going well by the Brit's angered expression.

"He's still inside. The idiot was pretending to be scared and refused to come outside, so I left him there. He was acting ridiculous."

"You what?!" Matthew shouted in worry.

"I left him inside."

"Just as planned," Francis whispered with a smile. Matthew froze. "Why don't you and I go have some fun around here? Mathieu and Kiku can go and find Alfred."

'Just as planned'…No, this was his plan all along? That's horrible! W-Why would he…? Matthew thought. He pulled Francis to the side, needing a 'little chat' with him.

"How c-could you?! Y-You knew that A-Alfred w-was s-scared of t-those things, a-and you know about his condition!" Matthew whispered urgently, trying not to yell.

"This is all part of my plan for you to win his heart, mon petite, and it also helps me with Arthur."

"H-How could you? I-I don't w-want y-you're help anymore! I-I'll w-win his h-heart without you! Y-You're horrible. I-I thought I could trust you! N-Now h-he must b-be having an attack in t-there and scared out o-of his mind!"

"But you cannot do it alone. That is why I will help you."

"I-I d-did it once, a-and I-I can do it again!" Matthew marched towards the House of Horror, going to help his crush.

"Where on Earth are you going?" Arthur asked.

"I'm going to get Alfred."

"Oh, don't trouble yourself. He won't listen to you, and some alone time 'ought to do the trick'."

"W-why you-! M-MR K-KIRKLAND YOU R-REALLY ARE CLUELESS!" Matthew yelled in rage.

"'Clueless'…?"

"ALFRED IS SCARED OF GHOSTS AND HE HAS CLAUSTROPHOBIA! THE REASON HE HASN'T COME OUT YET IS BECAUSE HIS CLAUSTROPHOBIA KICKED IN! HE'S PANICKING AND HE'S SCARED! IF YOU'RE SURE AS HELL NOT GETTING HIM AS HIS LOVER, THEN I'M GETTING MY FRIEND!"

Arthur stood there in shock for a few seconds, letting the words sink in. A wave of guilt hit him. What had he done?

He was about to speak, but Matthew was already gone. Arthur ran after him, trying not to let the guilt in his mind and heart stop him.

"A-Alfred, p-please come with m-me," Matthew said in a soothing voice. Alfred was still curled up, tears running down his cheeks.

"T-The walls a-are closing in, M-Mattie, a-and t-there a-are g-ghosts e-everywhere! I-I can't! I-It's t-too s-scary!" Alfred sobbed.

Arthur covered his mouth as he watched in horror. How could he have left Alfred alone? How could he have ignored the signs?

I don't like being boxed up in places.

Can we not watch that?

Stay this close away from me, dude.

Don't make me make a scene in this elevator.

The clues and warning signs ran through Arthur's mind. The words he had said and his actions around certain things had seemed normal to Arthur before. How could Alfred have not told him? Was he nervous, or did he just not trust him enough? So many unanswered questions ran through his mind, but he would not ask.

Matthew got Alfred up and allowed the American to hide his face in his neck. They walked past Arthur. Matthew's expression was sad and disappointed. How could Francis have planned such a thing? Although he didn't want to admit it, he did not despise his own brother. But this meant that he would have to tell Alfred 'that' when he was already upset.

Arthur followed the two of them out with a paralyzed and helpless look. Guilt heavy on his conscience, Arthur could not believe what a terrible day this had turned out to be. First there was that event with his father, and then he let Alfred fend for himself while suffering from an anxiety disorder.

"If you don't mind, Mr Kirkland, I-I'm going to t-take Alfred to my house. H-He c-could u-use some time w-with me r-right now. D-Don't w-worry, I-I know h-how t-to handle this. A-And…I-I'm s-sorry f-for y-yelling a-at you earlier…I-I was just s-so afraid for him."

"I-I understand," Arthur muttered, heading for his own car. He could no longer stand being outside. It was too much for him. Once he arrived at his home, Arthur put on his pajamas and lay down in bed.

As he began to cry, Arthur started to mumble apologies into his pillow.
"I-I'm so s-sorry, Alfred. I never meant to hurt you like that. I-If I had known, I would never have left you in that situation."

"A-Are you a-alright n-now, Al?" Matthew asked, placing a cup of hot chocolate in front of his friend.

"Y-Yeah, thanks for helping me, Mattie. Y-You really have my back, unlike that jerk Arthur."

"H-Hey, d-don't say that. H-He's a n-nice guy, really, a-and you know it."

"Yeah, but he was, like, totally a jerk to me back there."

"W-Well, h-he didn't know, A-Alfred." …Why am I defending my own love rival?

"Y-Yeah, b-but still! If I saw someone acting like me I would totally have helped."

"That's only because you have a h-hero c-complex, Al."

"Whose side are you on?"

"Y-Yours, o-of course, b-but this entire thing is not just his fault, but also yours in a w-way."

And mine.

"I guess you're r-right." Alfred sipped the hot chocolate, letting the warm liquid flow down his throat.

"A-Al, I-I have t-to tell you something."

"Sure, what is it, dude? W-Wait, you remembered to keep all the doors open, r-right?"

"Yes, of course. I don't w-want y-you to feel trapped."

"Okay then, so what's up?"

Adjusting his position in his chair, Matthew took a deep breath. How was he going to approach this? Was he supposed to say it directly, or should he just give hints and then say it. The different ways to say what he wanted were infinite. Eyes still locked on Alfred, Matthew tried to make his actions less suspicious.

"Dude, you're taking a long time to say it."

"W-Well, I-I don't know how t-to t-tell you this, e-exactly."

"Dude, I'm your best friend six-ever! You can tell me!"

"O-Okay…Well…" Matthew could feel his heart beating, making his ears throb and causing him to realize how nervous he was.

"Alfred...I-I...I..."

Go on, s-say it, Matthew. It might m-make the situation worse, b-but he deserves the truth.

"T-Today is my last d-day in town. T-Tomorrow I-I have to leave t-to go to C-Canada for a month."

"W-What?! Why?!"

"M-My Grandpa d-died, s-so I have t-to help m-my family. I-I asked Mr Kirkland, that's w-why he made that bet as his wager. W-Win or lose, you would have to take my place for the month."

"THAT LITTLE CHEAT! I KNEW IT!"

"A-Alfred calm down! W-While you're h-his secretary, I-I want y-you t-to please s-stop f-fighting a-and act like you l-love each o-other, l-like you d-do at your home. P-Please, f-for me, p-please s-stop y-your fights. I-I want you t-to be as h-happy as possible without m-me around."

…Wow. N-Now it sounds like I'm letting him go. I-I really d-don't deserve to be in a relationship, do I? Maybe this is why I'm a-always f-friend zoned...? Oh boy.

Alfred looked down sadly and nodded. He didn't want to lose his best friend again, especially after what had happened an hour ago. How was he supposed to take this? He now understood why Matthew had been so hesitant to tell him.

"I-It's okay, Mattie. I'm the hero, remember? I can do this! P-Plus, I've got Kiku to help me. For you, I'll stop fighting the best I can. I-I'm just going to miss my buddy, even if it's only for a month."

He got up to hug Matthew, wrapping his arms around his friend. It was a sad hug, but it held more of a, 'I'll wait for you' meaning. Alfred gave Matthew a final sweet smile.

"I'm sure gonna miss your stutter, dude. I'm sorry for your loss too."

"Thanks."

"So, since this is our last night together before you go to Canada, why don't we have one of our old sleepovers? It'll be just like old times."

"I-I couldn't agree anymore." Matthew smiled back at Alfred, getting up from his seat to get everything ready. For the next few hours, they played video games and watched TV. Soon after, they would tell stories of their life before they met again, and what they wished would happen in the future.

Now lying in bed alongside his friend, Alfred stared up at the ceiling and at Matthew's back. The Canadian had made sure to keep as much space between them as possible so that Alfred wouldn't freak out.

"Matte, what time are you leaving?"

"Probably in a few hours. I-I have t-to be there r-really early."

"O-Oh. A-Are you feeling okay?"

"Y-Yeah, why?"

"I-I know what it's l-like to lose someone. J-Just making sure. W-Were you close to him?"

"N-No, not really."

"Oh, okay then. N-Night, Mattie."

"N-Night, Al."

-NEXT MORNING-

Alfred woke up to his alarm as usual, moaning as he turned in his bed. He grabbed his glasses from the nightstand and could see that Matthew had left. Getting dressed in his costume again, Alfred yawned as he looked at his phone. The phone read 6:00, which meant that it was time to drive to Arthur's mansion and wake the tyrant up.

He rolled his eyes and grabbed his wallet so that he could catch the bus. It felt foreign for him to do so; usually he would either drive himself or have the limo driver take him to where he wanted to go. That only proved how luxurious Alfred's life had become ever since the scandal.

Stepping onto the bus, Alfred took an empty seat and waited for his stop. He stared out of the window, seeing old sights he had missed seeing.

Looking back on it, being in a normal setting once in a while was actually a good thing. Alfred didn't want to finish his bus journey, but of course, all good things must come to an end. Being dropped off around half a block away from the manor, Alfred had to walk the rest of the way.

Feeling sluggish and hungry, Alfred made his way to Arthur's room, slamming the door open. Arthur was dead to the world. Not even the sound of the door had woken him up.

"President Kirkland, wake up! It's time for work."

No reply.

"Dude, seriously, stop kidding and get up."

This time there was only a moan. Alfred rolled his eyes and grabbed the covers around Arthur's body, taking them away and flipping the sleeping man onto the floor.

"Milo! I told you not to wake me up like that!"

"Oh, so Mattie wakes you up that way too?"

"W-Who, w-what? O-Oh, it's my new-old secretary for the month." Alfred lightly slapped Arthur's head before starting to walk out of the room. "What was that for?"

"For lying to me, dude. You knew that win or lose I would have to be your sec."

"Oh, hush. It's the morning; I don't want to get into a fight already."

"I…Fine. Imma get something to eat."

"…I'm sorry, Mr Jones."

"What?"

"I didn't know about your condition, even though you gave me clues. I'm terribly sorry."

"No prob, dude. It happens all the time. You can't know everything."

"Thank you for understanding."

"Hey, I only understand because Mattie helped me with that, so you should thank him."

"Remind me to."

"Well, I am the secretary, aren't I?"

"That you are. Now run along, you might forget to eat."

"Shut up! I would never forget something that important for my survival." Alfred gave his boss a weak smile before leaving for the kitchen. Arthur started to get up slowly, but he stood up quicker than expected and his vision blurred with a wave of fatigue and dizziness.

He leaned against his nightstand, his vision clearing as the dizziness disappeared. However, the fatigue wouldn't leave. After realizing what he had done to Alfred, and not to mention the way his father had treated him earlier, he had stayed up all night.

"Honestly, you think I would be used to sleeping uneasily by now. Well, I should at least try to get some work done. My sad excuse for a father will wonder why I am putting off work."

Arthur yawned again and stretched in an attempt to wake up. Feeling himself relax, Arthur gave himself a simple smile. He headed towards the bathroom, remembering to grab his clothes, and shut the door.

He grabbed his toothbrush from the cup on the sink, squeezing on some toothpaste. As he brushed his teeth, Arthur squinted at his reflection.

He had bags under his eyes. They weren't that bad, but they were still there. I really must find a way to make my life simpler again, Arthur thought as he continued to brush. When that was done, he removed his pajamas and put on his work attire.

Walking out of the bathroom, now ready for the day, Arthur decided to find Alfred so that they could leave. He tried to stifle another yawn, shaking his head to stay awake.

Well, look on the bright side, Arthur. You don't have to worry about Mark trying to steal Alfred anymore. And since he will be gone for a whole month, Alfred's feelings for him should grow weaker. Now, I do respect the dead, and I feel sorry for his loss, but in a way this could be the universe telling him to back off. And for as long as I've known Alfred, I know that an old crush will deplete when he falls for another.

But what will I do then? And what if someone else tries to take Alfred, what will I do? No. Don't think like that. You will just have to distract Alfred from any other man but you. N-Not because you like him, but because we can't have another newspaper article written about us.

Ah, yes, I'm such a genius. There should be books written about me.

He smiled as he walked to the kitchen, but it quickly vanished when he couldn't see Alfred anywhere. Arthur looked around, growing worried. Did Alfred have another attack? Or did he leave without him? There was a buzz in his pocket, and Arthur grabbed his phone and read the caller ID.

Rebellious Brat

Arthur sighed in relief and hit the answer button.

"Get in the car, loser, we're gonna be late for work," Alfred commanded in a joking tone, giggling slightly. So he was safe, thank God. But he would pay for that loser part.

Arthur entered the car, and their usual routine began. When it came to the elevator, however, Arthur put an arm out in front of Alfred, making sure that not too many people came in the elevator. Alfred rolled his eyes and pushed Arthur's arm away, deciding to use the stairs instead. Arthur followed as best he could, trying not to trip.

"Why are you following me, President?" Alfred asked bitterly. His expression softened when he actually looked back at Arthur. The Brit's motions seemed jerky and lazy. This was strange for Arthur, as he would usually walk up-straight and proper, never letting anyone see him in any other way.

"T-To make sure you are safe. I value the safety of our employees," Arthur replied.

"President, I'm fine. You're the one you need to worry about. It looks like you're about to fall over and sleep."

"N-No! Just like you, I am fine. Now, can we please get up these stairs? I'm feeling a little light-headed."

"S-Sure." Alfred continued up the stairs, stealing glances at Arthur every so often. He was worried, so very worried. The other had been crying yesterday, and Alfred had promised him the time of his life. All had been going well until Francis pulled that dirty trick.

It was his fault that Arthur was this way, and he was sorry. He never meant to break his promise, but he had a disorder, so what could he do about it?

But Alfred definitely wanted revenge on Francis, although he wouldn't do it himself. He was the hero, after all, and heroes didn't do things like that. So instead, he would let God take care of it. He had never steered Alfred wrong before, so Alfred trusted Him. That, and the fact that Alfred's parents were very religious. His mother would make him go to church as often as possible.

When they reached the top, Alfred and Arthur made their way to their respectful spots. Arthur totted behind Alfred as Alfred settled back into his old desk. He rubbed it almost affectionately, and smiled when he saw the note on his desk. Alfred picked it up and read it aloud quietly.

Dear Al,

I miss you already. It's hard to believe that I have to be apart from my best friend again. When I come back, I'll have a small present for you.

I'm sorry for what Francis did; I never knew he was planning that. If I had, I wouldn't have let him lead us there. I'll try to come in contact as often as I can. I wish you luck with your old job. Again, I am so, so sorry for what Francis did.

Please be the bigger person, or in other words, the hero to forgive him.

Sincerely, Matt

P.S.

I left you some chocolate in the break room. It should be in the fridge at the very back so that no one can see it. Oh, and you're my hero, Al.

Feeling both enraged and torn, Alfred didn't know what to do. Matthew was asking for forgiveness on behalf of his own brother. If anything, Francis should be the one apologizing, not Matthew. But it also hit him right in the ego when Matthew told him to be the hero. But what Alfred didn't know was that Matthew was also asking for Alfred to forgive him too.

He felt betrayed by his brother. He had asked for help, but using Alfred's two weaknesses against him was beyond low. It hurt Matthew to know that Francis was more concerned with getting back together with Arthur than truly helping his own brother.

In a way, this vacation was only to clear his mind and figure out a plan. He would never ask for Francis to help him with love again, especially in this love triangle. If he was to win Alfred back, he had to do it himself, meaning that Matthew had to act as he normally would with a tiny bit of flirting here and there.

No more plotting and no more releasing any private information. It would all be up to Matthew. The only thing he had to worry about was how to outshine Arthur with his personality.

"Damn it, Mattie, you know I can't resist being the hero. So, Imma forgive him, just this once! After all, I bet this happens to everyone, even Captain America!"

Arthur sneezed loudly, covering his mouth with his arm. He felt worse than he had this morning, and he had only entered the office half an hour ago.

It felt like someone had punched his head repeatedly, his nose was running like a waterfall, and his throat was drier than the Sahara desert. His face was flushed a reddish color, and his whole body felt cold. He moved a hand to his forehead, wondering if he really was sick. Coughing a little, he decided he wasn't, not feeling the heat radiating from his own body.

Eyes still heavy and head swaying slightly, Arthur tried to concentrate on his work.

I must work…I'm not sick, I'm fine! You're just a little tired; you can work through this, Arthur.

His own encouraging words seemed to have worked as Arthur could no longer feel his symptoms. However, that didn't change the fact that he truly was sick. Tissues were scattered everywhere along with papers.

It was now almost noon, and Arthur had decided that at that time he would take a short nap and continue with his work after.

Arthur would constantly ring Alfred, giving him endless task throughout the day. It was a pleasure to see Alfred, but also an annoyance. Alfred would always barge into the room loudly, knocking things over. Although he would apologize and say it wouldn't happen again, it didn't stop him from repeating this action another five times.

Each time, Alfred would give him a sad look. It was almost as if he was hesitant to leave, like a puppy having to be separated from its owner. But Arthur did not have time for Alfred. He had to work. Nothing was able to distract him as he scribbled on paper and typed into the computer. He was so close, and he knew it. His oasis was close enough for him to grasp, and then it finally came.

Arthur's alarm went off, alerting him that it was now lunch time. Thanks heavens, Arthur thought, getting up to leave his office. He was about seven feet away from the door when Alfred burst through it.

"President Kirkland, I was wondering if you wanted to eat lunch with me. Kiku is…" Alfred trailed off, his eyes meeting Arthur's lazy green ones. It looked like his boss was suffering a fate worse than death. His hair was tangled, eyes droopy and fighting the welcoming urge to shut, and his nose was bright red.

"President?" Alfred asked, hoping for a reaction, but there was no such luck. This was bad. "Arthur! A-Are you okay?! C-Can you hear me?" Alfred panicked, shaking the Brit's shoulders in an attempt to wake him up. But Arthur didn't even seem to notice his actions.

Arthur stared at Alfred blankly. A wave of fatigue suddenly hit him, and his knees grew weak. He was already unconscious by the time he had fallen on top of Alfred. He would not have thought of it as an ideal situation, but he did not have the energy to continue any longer.

Now with his boss's body weight on him, Alfred hopelessly tried to free himself. It wasn't that he lacked the strength to, but his stomach was growling and being very distracting. He tried to ignore it, and after more struggling he had almost succeeded, but then something happened.

He heard the doorknob shift. Someone was behind the door.

Alfred looked down at his position and then back at the door, creating the scenario in his head. Whoever walked in would see them and think they were doing something they really weren't, and that was the last thing Alfred wanted. Alfred had to think, and quick!

"Man, we're gonna be in big trouble!"

Admin: Yes guys Matthew is gone now. You guys all seemed to start hating him, but now Francis is getting even meaner. Oh, and there's a few other things about this plot that will become unexpected. Don't think just because Matthew is gone, that it means Alfred will go to Arthur!

NO!It's time to unleash my evil on my characters and make their love lives harder! But don't worry, everything will come together and make this fanfic more interesting to read.

Please review~! More Reviews means more motivation, and that means more muse, and that means faster chapters!