Admin: To those who noticed the You're Beautiful reference I love you! I thought I told you this is a mix of Korean dramas I've seen. The incident where Arthur drowned was from Boys over Flowers, amusement part incident from Protect the boss, and some of the songs I mentioned are from You're Beautiful or Boys over Flowers.

I guess the roles of the characters should be obvious too. Nonetheless, most of the plot twist are my ideas along with the main concept. I just use Korean dramas when I have writers block, which isn't very often since I hadn't used one in a while.

Okay guys here you go, come and get it!

/throws update at you guys and runs away/

"President Kirkland, I don't think we should discuss this here." Alfred leaned closer and whispered, "We still have a scandal to uphold. What are you gonna tell everyone, huh? Should we spill the beans now?"

Standing silently, Arthur remembered what he had just said. He felt his face heat up in embarrassment, and he looked at the people who were attentively watching the scene unfold. Though it was only a small group of people, most of them seemed to be whispering their own theories on what Arthur had meant and what could happen. Getting closer to Alfred, Arthur patted the other's shoulder awkwardly as he directed his attention to the crowd of people.

"Aren't you Arthur Kirkland, son of George Kirkland, the man who owns the Kirkland law firm?" one guest asked with a raised hand. He continued when Arthur turned to him. "I thought you two loved each other. Is something wrong?"

"Everything is fine, rest assured!" Arthur exclaimed quickly. After clearing his throat yet again, he readied himself to speak and grabbed Alfred's upper arm. "It's just a simple lovers' quarrel. Please carry on while we fix this problem." Arthur, with some difficulty, pulled Alfred away, even though the American wasn't even resisting. He was going easy on the Brit.

Alfred sent Matthew an apologetic look, and the other nodded and gave him a small 'go on' gesture. Smiling weakly at his friend, Alfred followed his former boss to the back of the cafe where they would have a little talk.

-A day before the party-

When Francis left Alfred and Matthew alone to have their moment, Francis saw this as an opportunity to see his own love interest as well.

He walked towards Arthur's location with a smirk forever planted on his perfect face. With a simple yet stunning hair flip, Francis arrived at the level where Arthur usually worked. Francis felt as if he was in a movie. He could practically hear the background music playing in his honor as he neared Arthur's domain.

He stretched out his hand and caressed the doorknob with his fingers. He was going to try yet again to either anger or seduce the British man, though Francis knew it would most likely be the former. But that was also useful, as this still meant Arthur was paying more attention to him. Eventually, that hatred would turn into passion, as it did indeed require passion to hate someone. Soon he would be able to turn the tables and have Arthur hate Alfred instead, and Arthur would be in his arms once again. That was his plan.

Although, as most people knew, these things took time, so Francis had to wait for the right chance. With the blissful thought of his plan, Francis felt excited as he opened the door. He twisted his wrist slowly and steadily, hearing the door unlock noticeably. The moment it opened Francis went inside.

The first thing Francis saw was Arthur. His head was on his desk and he was looking to the side. It was as if his body had lost its soul. His eyes blinked every so often, but not as frequently as they should. Arthur's hair was messier than usual and work seemed to be the least of his concerns.

"Bonjour! Aren't you glad to see me?" Francis posed dramatically. The Brit, however, simply sent him a cold look as he stood up. He rubbed the bridge of his nose in annoyance.

"What do you want, surrender monkey?" Arthur asked with a heavy sigh. "Can't you see I'm trying to sulk in peace?"

"Oh, don't be so angry. That only happened once. I couldn't afford to let them touch my gorgeous hair."

"That ended up with me coming home with cuts and bruises!"

"Oh, my poor Arthur. Would you like me to kiss them and make it better?"

"NO!"

"It was only a suggestion."

"I'm not in the mood for you. Why are you here?"

"To cheer you up, of course. What else would a loving boyfriend do?"

"You're not my boyfriend."

"Oh, not yet, but I'm sure you're upset that your boy toy left you. Why don't you tell big brother Francis about it?"

"How do you know about that?"

"I have my ways."

"Why you little-..."

"Ah, ah, ah. I would be careful with what you say to me, otherwise I won't tell you."

"Tell me what?"

"About the thing you have been searching for the most these past few days, a boy you and I know by the name of Alfred."

"You know where he is?"

"Of course I do. I know where he lives and works."

"Well, tell me."

"Non. First, you have to promise me something. You must promise to give me back what this information is worth in kisses."

"…Please tell me there is another option."

"There is. You have to agree to go on a date with me."

"Must all of them have something to do with you?"

"Yes."

"Then, I have to say no."

"Are you sure about that? It's either you kiss me or go on a date with me, or you never see Alfred again, knowing I can tell you where he is."

Arthur practically choked at these words. He took a minute to decide what his fate would be. At the moment, all Arthur could think about was Alfred. The American seemed to occupy his thoughts 24/7. Alfred's face would sometimes appear to him, formed by his imagination, and his father often caught him asking these hallucinations why Alfred was running through his head. Other times, he would convince himself that Alfred dreamed of him whenever he went to bed.

Though Arthur was very lovesick, he didn't mind the fact that he was acting like a teenage girl in love (though he would never admit that himself). Once Arthur had come to a decision, he looked at Francis again.

"Fine. I will agree to one date. I repeat, one date!"

"Merci. Now, what would you like to know, my little British angel?"

"Don't call me that! And I want to hear everything you know."

"Hmm… But that is worth more than one date. How about a date and one willing kiss? And, of course, it has to be a French one."

"Fine," Arthur responded, not really listening to what the other said. He was only concerned about the information he needed. "I'll agree to your terms."

"Very well. Now, where should I start? Ah, I know. Alfred now lives with my little brother, your love rival, Mathieu. Isn't that precious? Also, Alfred works at my café, since he needed a job so suddenly, and being the saint I am, I allowed him to work there. Another thing, he doesn't miss you very much. He was, in fact, glad that I never told you of his whereabouts. Well, until now, but he doesn't know that."

"Is there any way for me to get to him without him seeing me first and running?"

"Yes, there is."

"What is it?"

"Ah, I'm getting rather thirsty."

"Drink your own spit!"

"Oh, how you wound me, Arthur."

"I don't give a damn! Tell me now!"

"Aren't we being a little childish?"

"No, but you're taking too long to hold up your end of the deal."

"The same will go for you."

"Can we just carry on?!"

"Ah, yes, where were we?"

"For the love of-..."

"Alright, you can find him tomorrow at my café. We are hosting a welcome back party for Mathieu at seven o'clock. Mathieu and I will be arriving later so that he can be surprised. Make sure you come when anyone would least expect it. Let's say the same time Mathieu and I arrive, but storm in through the door so that Mathieu doesn't know it's you until he hears your voice."

"Are you planning something? It's awfully fishy for you to help me like this."

"Oh, I am just trying to make sure you see him. At the moment he only wants to forget you, so you have to make it seem like he absolutely has to talk to you." Francis turned around and went towards the door.

"Wait, where are you going?"

"Oh? Could it be you do not want me to leave?"

"Hardly."

"I must go. Our date will be in two days. I will be looking forward to our kiss the most." Blowing a kiss to Arthur, Francis waved goodbye before leaving through the door.

-Hours before the party-

Crash!

Alfred fell to the ground along with different party supplies. He patted himself off, muttering under his breath as he stood up.

"Stupid door. The lock's all messed up and all the party supplies are everywhere because I stuffed a lot of things in there!" Alfred kicked a party hat and started gathering everything into his arms.

Cursing colorfully to himself, he had to admit it had been his own fault. He had been so excited about the party that he opened the door too quickly and caused everything to fall out.

After putting everything on one large table, Alfred looked around to see what needed to be decorated.

He scrunched his sleeves up so that they were above his elbows and got to work. Being the bright and happy person he was, Alfred made sure everything was very colorful and flashy.

A few hours later, everything was perfect in Alfred's opinion. Now all he had to worry about was the food, but he didn't have to think about that too much since Francis was a wonderful cook.

Sitting at the closest booth to him, Alfred drank from his water bottle and examined the place one last time. He then got up and opened the back door, allowing air to circulate throughout the room.

Alfred smiled to himself. The party was going to be great.

Meanwhile, Kiku was working at his desk peacefully and was being sent constant emails, all of them asking when his new article would come out. Sighing to himself, the Japanese man wondered if it would be okay to release the information he had already collected. However, he knew he had to wait. He needed Francis to give him the okay.

Kiku reassured his boss that it wasn't the right time yet and he needed one more thing to complete it. He leaned back in his seat and wiped away the beads of sweat on his forehead. He glanced to the side, where many workers with anxious expressions had gathered.

Noticing this, Kiku stood up and went to his fellow workers. He tapped one of them on the shoulder before bowing politely and asking what all the ruckus was about. The man stared at him as if he had asked the stupidest question known to mankind.

"You don't know?! THE Benedict Kirkland is coming to the building today!"

"Who is that?"

"How do you not know?! Benedict Kirkland is the man who started this law firm before giving it to his son, CEO George Kirkland."

"So, in other words, this is CEO Kirkland's father?"

"Yes."

"Why do you think he's here?"

"To check on us, no doubt about that. It's about the usual time he comes to inspect this level before going to meet CEO Kirkland."

Speak of the devil and he shall appear, the one who stepped through the doors was none other than the man who had started it all, Benedict Kirkland. Everyone in the office stood in a straight line and greeted the man respectfully.

The man in front of them did not smile. In fact, no one could remember a time where he had. No matter what, in or out of the office, Benedict Kirkland was strictly business. He would never joke around and he looked down upon almost everyone.

He was so dedicated to his business that he forced his only son, George, into an arrange marriage for the sake of the firm. Luckily, his son had learned to accept it over time and grew to love the woman. He often thought about doing the same for Arthur, but then, his grandson was a special case.

Benedict looked similar to Arthur, but the old man had freckles and a larger body. Taking in his fill of how immaculate the work place was, the elder left the area, leaving everyone else to breathe a sigh of relief.

In truth, Benedict wasn't at the firm for a check-up. He was actually there for a meeting with his son. Once he had reached the desired door the man opened it without warning, alarming George who had been writing something down.

"F-father? What on Earth are you doing here?!" George exclaimed, but his father wasn't paying attention. The old man simply sat down and pulled something out of his suit pocket. He placed it on the desk.

Glaring angrily, Benedict repeatedly pointed at the table. "What is this?" Benedict demanded. "Do you mind telling me what happened here while I was in Germany?"

The paper on the table held old newspaper clippings that announced everything about the scandal, starting from the first article ever written about it. Taking a minute to look over them, George was speechless until he looked into his father's frightening, cold eyes.

George knew that saying his father was angry would have been an understatement.

"Well, as you can see from the first article, Arthur was supposedly having relations with an employee."

"I thought you raised the boy better than that. I knew he would be nothing but bad luck ever since he was five."

"Now, father, he isn't bad luck…"

"Really? Then would you care to explain why our standings have lowered in the last few months?"

"Well, that is-…"

"That is what? Out with it now! I am very busy with the other Branches of the Kirkland Company."

"Yes, I know, father."

"Continue!"

"W-well, you see, our standings have been going down a little because of this relationship of theirs. You see, I forced them into a fake relationship so that our law firm wouldn't be part of a scandal, and now it seems that Arthur has fallen for the lad."

"Break them up."

"I-I beg your pardon?"

"Break them up."

"Why?"

"It's bad enough that the first article came out at all. I don't want my firm associated with anything love related unless it's a court case."

"F-father, I-I can't do that to my son, and with his condition-…"

"I don't give a damn about what the boy has or what he feels. The only passion he should have is for this company. I knew I should have arranged to have him married when I had the chance."

"Please, for once in his life he is happy. I can't ruin that."

"You have no choice. I will give you three weeks. If the public doesn't believe they have broken up by then, then I will disown you and your son. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal..."

"Good. I must go now. Remember, three weeks. Good day, then."

-Present-

"Ah, here. No one will find us here." Arthur said as he pushed Alfred into a closet. As he was about to close the door, Alfred stopped him.

"Dude, this thing has a possessed lock! We'd be stuck in here if you shut that door. Just leave it open a little."

Arthur left the door open by a crack and turned to Alfred.

"Now, I want you to look me in the eye and tell me what you wrote in that letter is or isn't true!"

Looking at Arthur hesitantly, Alfred realized he would need all of his acting skills to pull this off. Once he had prepared himself, he gave the other a bright smile and said, "Yes, everything I said was true. I don't want to work at the firm knowing you're there."

Arthur felt his heart break again, but he made sure his emotions wouldn't show. He rubbed his temples and banged a fist against the wall.

He would quickly regret this. The impact caused a broom to fall and swing towards the door, knocking the doorknob clean off.

Panicking, Arthur grabbed the doorknob and tried to reattach it. But, adding to his bad luck, his attempts to put the doorknob back ended up closing the door. They were locked in.

Alfred heard the door shut and looked at Arthur and the doorknob. He pushed Arthur out the way and tried to open the door, but it wouldn't budge. Kicking it also did nothing.

Eventually, after abusing the door many times in an attempt to free themselves, Arthur sat on the floor, watching as Alfred continued.

"Mr Jones, it's not going to work. Give it up…"

"Hell no! I'm not missing my best friend's welcome back party because of you! Isn't it enough that you stopped me from picking him up?"

"Yes, I know, it's my fault."

"Exactly! So help me open the stupid door!"

"We've tried all we could. The only thing we can do now is hope someone finds us."

"That might not be until morning! AND D-DO I HAVE TO REMIND YOU T-THAT I HAVE A PROBLEM WITH BEING LOCKED UP?!"

"Well then, I suggest you get comfortable," Arthur said irritably. "Now, would you please sit down? Just talk to me so that you don't have to pay attention to your surroundings."

"I-I'll try. Hey, what happened to you all of the sudden? You changed moods and turned all depressing."

"There is obviously no hope in us getting out of here, so why try?"

"There's always a reason to keep going."

"Hmm… I'll keep that in mind. However, I won't apply it to this situation."

"Ugh, seriously?"

"Yes, seriously."

Alfred rolled his eyes and sat down at the opposite wall, crossing his arms and looking to the side. Nothing was said for a while, and Alfred could hear the party outside sounding very lively. Frowning, he looked down and then up to Arthur, whose expression was as annoyed as usual.

"Why do you care, anyway?"

"Pardon?"

"Why do you care what I said in the letter, anyway? You knew it was true; I never got to do my real job."

"That's not the point. A few minutes before then, I told you how I felt. And yet, in your letter, you said that the fact I have a crush on you may be something terrible."

"Well, dude, face it. You're only saying you like me because of this fake relationship. Your acting skills are becoming way too serious."

"Acting? You think I'm acting?"

"Duh!"

"I most certainly am not."

"Are you sure about that?"

"Completely."

"Then kiss me and say you love me. If you can do that without any hesitation whatsoever, or your weird happy angry thing, I'll believe you. I'll even go back and live and work with you again without any complaints. But I have to see that you actually mean it."

"And I have your word on this?"

"Sure, why not? It's not like you're man enough to do it, anyway." Alfred chuckled.

"Shut it!"

"Okay. Well then, Pre-…I mean, Kirkland."

"Why are you acting so strangely?"

"So I can do this." With that, Alfred leaned forwards and put his hands next to Arthur's head, his face now only a little bit away from Arthur's. Alfred smiled slyly and leaned in even further, only to see Arthur blush and sink into the wall.

"You see? You don't know how to do things like this. You don't know what it's like for someone to actually take control." Alfred then took Arthur's chin and pushed his face up towards him, observing the Brit's flustered expression.

Arthur tried to push the other away, but couldn't.

Alfred smiled and let go of Arthur, returning to his original position as if that had never happened.

"You can't like me because you barely know a thing about me. That proved it; you were, like, totally not expecting that!"

Still blushing from what had just occurred, Arthur couldn't look the younger blond in the eye.

"A-anyone would be caught off guard if you did that, you twit!"

"Haha, really? Dude, believe it or not, that was the first time I've ever done something like that."

"H-how?"

"Well, I'm good at this thing called acting, like you are, so I'm able to do whatever I want."

"I don't act."

"Oh, yes you do. You had to pretend you liked me for a few months and now, supposedly, you've actually fallen for me. Dude, I'm not as stupid as some people think. I know when someone doesn't truly mean what they're saying with their heart; it's a gift."

"Well, I bet I can say those words and even perform that act better than you."

"Go ahead, old dude."

"I will." Arthur glared determinedly and grabbed the other's shoulders. He took a deep breath.

"Dude, you look like a total creeper right now." Refusing to respond, Arthur closed his eyes and leaned in. But his hands were shaking. Arthur decided that he couldn't kiss Alfred first, so he opened his eyes and then his mouth.

"I-I… L-lo… I… L-lo-love…"

"Okay, stop." Alfred pushed Arthur away and crossed his arms. "Dude, you can't do it, so I won't force you. What kind of a hero would I be if I did? Just promise me that you'll say it to the one you really love, 'kay?"

"I can do it, I-I just wasn't ready. You know, I had to get in the mind-set. I-it's not like I was trying to make you look into my eyes and fall for me."

"It's okay, dude, but don't worry. I know this whole little crush thing will pass… In fact, after tonight you'll be cured!"

"What makes you think that?"

"I don't know, since it looks like we're not getting out of here, and everyone's leaving…"

Arthur pressed his ear to the door and found he could indeed hear the guests beginning to pile out of the café. His prediction had come true. The Brit closed his eyes and sank back to his side of the closet.

"You're right. What do you suppose we do?"

"Well, you have to stay on your side."

"Agreed. Same to you."

"Don't worry; I don't plan on spending my first night in your arms."

"W-what are you trying to imply?"

Oh, this should be fun, Alfred thought. He started to put on an innocent pose, with his hands in-between his legs and his head tilted to the side. Alfred laughed inwardly. He knew it was very easy to make Arthur flustered.

Staring up with wide puppy dog eyes, Alfred tried his best to look timid. He was aware of how strange this could have looked since he was a somewhat large man for his age.

"B-but president, I've never spent a night with another man before. You better keep those dirty thoughts out of that head of yours, or I'll sue you for sexual harassment."

Arthur was more than a little taken back by Alfred's newfound innocence, and he felt his heartbeat increase as a familiar shade of red crept onto his cheeks.

"Who on Earth would have such thoughts about you?"

"Well, you did say you like me, so I'm just warning you. I'm very sensitive, you know." Alfred started crawling closer to Arthur, causing the other to back up until he hit his head on the wall. He drew his face closer to Arthur's.

Arthur gulped. He tried to keep his expression stern but the fact that Alfred was suddenly so close made this very difficult.

Mouth now near Arthur's ear, Alfred smirked again as he tried to hold back his chuckles. "President, I have to tell you something."

"W-what?"

"I'm acting." Alfred pushed himself away from Arthur again. He held his stomach as he began laughing uncontrollably.

Arthur hit Alfred upside the head in anger. "Why did you do that?!"

"You sh-should have seen your face! PRICELESS!"

"I demand an apology!"

"O-okay, dude." Alfred calmed himself down before looking at Arthur. In that moment, he truly did feel terrible. He had been so caught up in trying to make the other hate him that Alfred forgot there was a chance Arthur had genuine feelings for him. He had been playing around with the Brit's emotions like a jerk.

Alfred looked down sadly and rubbed his arm. "I'm sorry, that was really mean of me. I shouldn't have done that…"

"That's alright. I forgive you."

"Thanks, dude. Again, I'm really sorry. I guess I do have my jerk moments, but hey, nobody's perfect."

"You're right."

"Glad we agree on something."

"Ha, I guess we do."

"Well, dude, I think I want to crash now. It's late, I'm pretty sure."

"Have we really been stuck in here for that long?"

"Yeah, we-… W-wait, stuck?"

"M-Mr Jones, are you alright?"

"W-we're stuck in here! S-stuck in a freaking closet! O-oh my God, h-how could I have forgotten?!"

"It's because you were talking to me. Calm down, you're doing fine."

"F-fine?! What happens if we're trapped here or if the place closes in on us?! President, I can't be in a small area again! I'm scared that when I wake up I'll see my parent's trying to save me!"

"So that's where it comes from," Arthur whispered. "Mr Jones, look at me."

Alfred hesitated; too busy seeing if there were any escape routes. In Alfred's mind, everything was beginning to close in. His paranoia started kicking in, and he screamed again and banged on the walls.

Was this what Alfred had looked like at the Halloween Carnival? Arthur felt a wave of sympathy hit him, and he stood up and gave Alfred a firm hug. Alfred, however, took this negatively. He thought the walls had finally closed in on him. He was almost too far gone to be brought back to reality.

Arthur intertwined his fingers with Alfred's hair and forced the other to look at him.

"Alfred, look at me. You'll be fine. I'm here with you this time. You won't see that traumatizing scene ever again, and you will get through this. Do you trust me?"

Alfred remained silent, staring at Arthur as if he was insane. He bit his lip.

"B-but I-I'm the hero. I'm supposed to get through this m-myself. I don't need help."

"Yes, you do. Now, listen to me for once, poppet. Just accept that you need help. The biggest part of being a hero is being brave, and you can be brave by asking for help."

"Shut up! You got that from Doc McStuffins!"

"No I didn't. Do you watch that show?"

"No!"

"Alright then… Now, do as I say: lie down and look up at the ceiling. I'll be right by your side if you need me."

"You just want to sleep next to me."

"N-No! I-I'm not d-doing this for you, I'm doing this so that I can get a decent amount of sleep in our situation. Honestly, why on Earth would I care about your health?"

"Jerk."

"Yes, yes, now do as I told you."

Huffing, Alfred lay on the floor nervously and stared up at the ceiling. He saw Arthur removing his coat from the corner of his eye, and was surprised when the Brit placed it over Alfred. Soon after, Arthur blushed and looked the other way as he joined Alfred on the floor.

"Go to sleep," he demanded as he curled up into a ball, trying to forget Alfred was even there. Alfred noticed how cold Arthur seemed, so he pulled the coat over both of them and cuddled up next to Arthur's back. The Brit immediately shot up and looked at Alfred with a flushed face, obviously startled.

"W-what are you doing?"

"Hey, I'm trying to calm down, okay? M-my mom used to cuddle with me when I went to sleep, and when I didn't have her it was James and Abraham. The last time I checked, they weren't here. I-I just don't want to be alone right now… I hate feeling lonely, like I'm the only one who'll be stuck in this box whenever I-I'm locked up like this. So please, please put up with it, dude. You said heroes could ask for help, so I am. And I promise that I will never do this again for as long as I live!"

"W-well, I guess you have a legitimate reason. But I won't tolerate any funny business."

Alfred didn't want to respond to that. He simply closed his eyes and tried to think of wide open places. Arthur then returned to his original position and attempted to get some shuteye as well. Although, getting sleep was easier said than done.

Arthur could barely even relax knowing Alfred was literally on his back. His breathing turned more rapid as he resisted the urge to twist around and look at the American's sleeping face. One part of him wanted to see it so badly, but the other was disgusted and thought the nineteen year old was an annoyance.

He soon decided that he had lost this battle, and Arthur slowly and carefully turned to face Alfred.

For a second, Arthur couldn't see anything. After squinting and straining his eyes against the darkness for a little while, Arthur saw the sleeping American, who looked oddly troubled. He was probably having a nightmare about his parents.

Arthur felt nothing. How strange. When he had pictured this scenario in his head, he thought Alfred would have looked cuter than a baby bear. However, Arthur didn't think this way.

Alfred was just Alfred, and for a split second Arthur began to wonder if Alfred was right. Maybe he was lying to himself about his feelings. Perhaps he was simply too in character and he was getting used to putting up the act everywhere.

Just as he tried to shake these thoughts away, Arthur suddenly felt Alfred bury his face in his chest. He was pretty sure his heart skipped a beat. Feeling more than a little awkward, Arthur slowly wrapped his arms around Alfred.

"This is a test, Arthur. You're not trying to cuddle with him, this is only to see if you really like him," Arthur told himself.

Closing his eyes, Arthur slowly started to fall asleep as he hummed Phantom of the Opera. All Arthur could feel at that moment was warmth and safety. Alfred somehow gave his heart the peace it had been searching a long time for.

Smiling as he slept, Arthur decided that he truly did like Alfred a lot, but it was not love. Love was something that could only be achieved when two people shared the same feelings.

He felt content with this new realization. All that was left now was for Arthur to sleep and enjoy the time he had with Alfred for as long as he could.

Morning soon came around, and Arthur woke to the sound of the closet door being pulled. He rubbed his eyes and decided that someone must have figured out where they were, since Alfred snoring sounded very loud in the quiet café. Arthur began shaking Alfred and grabbed his coat, watching as the American curled into a ball to keep warm.

"Wake up, Mr Jones. Someone's coming to get us out of here," Arthur said lightly, trying not to scare Alfred. The other simply groaned and made a 'five more minutes' gesture. After a few seconds, Arthur tried again. This time, the only sound he heard was a growling stomach. Alfred darted up before beginning to stand lazily. He sniffed the air, his stomach growls becoming more gradual as he woke up more.

Going towards the door, Alfred started to bang on it and panic, repeating last night's actions. However, his motivation this time was not fear, but food. Alfred eventually lost it, and something possessed him to run at full force and knock the door down.

Successfully outside, Alfred immediately jumped at what was emitting the smell of food.

He heard a squeak and a thud echo throughout the café, causing Alfred to snap out of it and realize what had happened. He looked down and smiled. An all too familiar Canadian blinked up at him, whose face had flushed rose red when he saw Alfred was on top of him. Without really thinking, Alfred happily kissed Matthew on the cheek.

"Mattie! I thought I'd never get out of there! It was cold and it felt like I was trapped in there forever! I was even stuck with boring ol' Christmas tree face all night!" Alfred complained, sitting up with his legs either side of Matthew, who was still on the ground. Matthew used his elbows to support himself and looked at Alfred with a smile.

"I-I'm glad you're okay. I-I was so worried w-when you didn't come home, and the door to the café was left open. W-we thought you two eloped or something," Matthew replied jokingly.

"As if that would happen! That's what sappy losers do."

"Your parents did that, A-Al…."

"Which is why I should do it sometime, then I can be a sappy loser too."

"Oh you."

"Oh me!"

"Oh, I-I made b-breakfast, if you want some."

"Dude, of course I want some! Did you make your pancakes?"

"Y-yes."

"Whoop! Hey, Mattie, shouldn't you be at work? It's, like, Friday?"

"W-well, I had to f-find Mr Kirkland, and the only place I didn't check last night was here."

"Thank goodness for that! Dude, you're like an angel!"

"No I-I'm not."

"Dude you are! If you didn't put two and two together for your job, then we would've been stuck there and I might have lost it!"

Matthew looked down and blushed.

"Um, A-Al? Can you get off of me?"

"Oh, y-yeah. Sorry…" Complying with his friend's request, Alfred stood and moved to the side as he watched Matthew get up. The American blinked suddenly and looked around.

"Mattie, where did the president go? He was here a second ago."

"I-I don't know, Al. Maybe he went home so he could get ready. I-I have to go after him, but I'll see you later."

"Okay, dude! Thanks for the food, and I'll spend the whole day with you tomorrow so we can catch up!"

"S-sounds like a plan."

"Bye!"

"See ya."

Arthur arrived at his house in no time; it surprised him how quickly he could get there by using the streets.

There had only been two reasons as to why Arthur had the café. One: Alfred way paying more attention to Matthew than him and the Brit couldn't stand it. Two: When Arthur came out of the closet, he saw his phone had a new message. It had said his grandfather was here and that they should have breakfast together.

Now, Arthur did not know much about his grandfather, but what he did know scared him. His grandfather was even worse than his father; all he cared about was business. The only time Arthur had seen him smile was when he was making a lot of money. To be frank, it disgusted him.

Arthur walked into the house with cold feet, making his way to the kitchen where the two elders were waiting for him. He entered through the door quietly and took his usual seat, with the butlers immediately beginning to serve him.

For a moment, the Kirklands said nothing. They simply glared at each other.

Benedict wiped his mouth as he glowered at Arthur, causing his face to grow even more wrinkled.

"Arthur, the last time I checked you were taught proper manners. Why have I not been greeted?" Benedict questioned.

"I'm terribly sorry, sir. Welcome home. How was your trip?"

"It was pleasant. Where have you been?"

"I was doing some errands."

"Really now? Would you care to tell me what they were?"

"With all due respect, that is none of your business."

"Everything is my business. I am a businessman, after all."

"Still, this is my personal life."

"That is no way to speak to your elders."

"Oh, I'm terribly sorry, sir."

"Arthur," Benedict started coldly, "I'm sure you know that I didn't come here to have a little chitchat about your manners."

"Then what, may I ask, are you here for?"

"The Kirkland Co. would like to expand by creating a union with another company."

Arthur frowned. "And what part do I play in this?"

"You will have to marry the successor to their company."

"Never!" Arthur stood up suddenly, clenching his hands into fists and glaring at his grandfather. He felt betrayed. His father had said himself that Arthur would never have to go through something like this, and why was he suddenly being forced into a marriage in the first place? His confusion over his feelings for Alfred was giving him enough problems, and now he would have to go through this, too?

"Arthur," George barked out, catching his son's attention, "sit down and listen." Arthur stared at his traitorous father, but obeyed hesitantly.

"What is the meaning of this? Why do I have to get married?"

"I will not have my company's successor be in a scandalous relationship with an employee."

"Grandfather, please understand that this relationship is not going to remain scandalous or fake. I plan to make Alfred come to like me, just as I have fallen for him to some extent."

"Well, lock up all of those feelings and throw away the key. You will go through with this marriage."

"Why?"

"Because otherwise I will disown you and your father. This means that when I die, you will not inherit the money I have saved up."

"Why should we give a damn about that? It's only money."

"Also, I will lend the company to someone else and ensure that you are fired."

"You are pure evil."

"So I've been told."

"How can you do this to your own bloody grandson?"

"I did it to my son. What makes you so special, lad?"

"Um, let me see, the fact I am your only grandchild who survived at birth?"

"Nonetheless, it's already settled. You are to meet him today at the Swan restaurant."

"So it's a man?"

"Yes."

"Sorry, but I already have plans."

"Cancel them."

Arthur stormed out of the room. Occasionally, he would knock down whatever was in his way as he moved as fast as possible. He soon arrived at his bedroom, and he slammed the door shut behind him and ran a hand through his hair. Arthur gave a loud yell.

He had been with the man he liked only a few moments ago. How could this have happened so suddenly?

Keeping his hands in some kind of prayer pose as he covered his nose and mouth, Arthur tried to figure out what he could do.

Maybe, by some miracle, this 'suitor' didn't want to get married either. Maybe they could just agree on a union for the companies and leave it at that. Arthur smiled at this thought, and he walked over to his large closet to pick out his clothes for the day.

After he had finished getting dressed, Arthur was surprised to find Matthew outside his room, waiting patiently as he usually did.

"Mr Williams? Shouldn't you be at the office?"

"No, sir. I-I have been instructed t-to escort you to your engagement meeting." Matthew was beaming.

"Don't look at me like that. And I thought this wasn't until much later."

"No, sir. The sooner t-the better, a-at least that is what your g-grandfather said."

"Ugh, that man will be the end of me before my father. Nonetheless, if I call for help, you are come to my aid."

"U-understood. Oh, and my brother understands w-why you cannot attend your originally planned outing."

"Well, at least this meeting means I don't have to see that stupid frog again. Sorry, Melvin."

"M-Matthew, sir, a-and it's okay."

"Come on, then. We're not going to cover much ground by just dallying around here."

"R-right." Matthew followed Arthur outside and to the car that would take them to their destination.

Arthur's heart was pounding and his breathing was ragged. Drops of sweat ran down the side of his face. He was nervous. Arthur had come up with a plan earlier but the moment he stepped out of the car his mind drew a blank. He looked at Matthew, who was leaning against the car and minding his own business, and practically begged the Canadian for help.

Letting out a nervous sigh, Arthur walked into the high-class restaurant. He tried to remain calm and confident as he went through the door. There was a chance, after all, that his so-called fiancé also didn't approve of this marriage.

He asked the hostess where his dining partner was and found, much to his liking, that the man was in a private room where no one could see or hear them. A quick scan of the room showed Arthur that someone was sitting in a swivel chair, turned away from the Brit.

Arthur slowly melted into his seat as he eyed the chair. He coughed into his hand once he was completely settled. Strangely, there was no response.

"Excuse me, sir, I believe we have a meeting so that we can get to know each other. I, myself, am against this marriage. I was hoping that maybe you were as well?" Arthur asked anxiously, deciding to get straight to the point. The other's chair squeaked, and Arthur took a deep breath as his fiancé began to turn around.

"Oh, but I do agree with this arrangement, mon chéri. After all, it is as if the world is telling us that we should be together, non?"

"Francis?! What are you doing here? I cancelled our little rendezvous. Your brother even confirmed it."

"Well, believe it or not, I am your new fiancé. We will fall in love..."

"We most certainly will not!"

"Oh, you will. You may have had a moment with your little crush in the closet, but you will soon forget that. I will soon make him so jealous of me that he will give up entirely."

"What do you mean?"

"Now, now, if I reveal my plan there would be no point in it, would there? Shh, you must wait, mon amour."

"Stop with the useless nicknames and tell me what you're planning!"

"Non."

"Then, would you at least mind telling me why you are here?"

"Happily. You know, there was a reason we got together when we were younger."

"And why is that?"

"We met so that maybe, in the future, instead of an arranged marriage it could be a willing one. However, our love came to a tragic end, with you being a drama queen, so your grandfather gave up on this plan."

"No, I was not being a drama queen. You know exactly what happened, and why on Earth would he choose you of all people?"

"Well, my maman does own the Bonnefoy Industries in France, and the company has recently expanded into America. Therefore, it is a business engagement just like with your own parents."

"I can see you're speechless. Don't worry, I will make sure we have a beautiful wedding."

"Who said I would ever marry the likes of you?"

"Don't worry; in only a few weeks you will come to see me as the better suitor."

"No I won't."

"Oh, yes you will. Be careful. Everything you do, whether right or wrong, will only help me even more. Now then, shall we eat? You don't have to order. I've already chosen for you since you have no taste for food." Francis clapped his hands and signalled for the staff to enter with their food. They placed the dishes in front of Arthur and Francis.

Arthur sat there, trying to understand what Francis had meant. Besides that, he was also shocked and worried about how much more difficult his life would be. In that moment, Arthur came to a simple conclusion that many others before him had figured out: love is a battlefield.

Francis did not notice how perplexed Arthur was and had the waiters pour them some wine. He held up his glass happily and smiled at his partner.

"To us! May our marriage be the envy of others!"

Admin:

Yes, I'm evil!Now that there is even more to their troubles, this is where the real drama begins! P-PLEASE DON'T HATE ME!

Review so I can see what you like, or what you don't like; predictions are good too.

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