A/N: Hello! :)
After all the angst let's have some fluff with family and friends :D
We hope you enjoy this chapter and as always thank you very much for reading and commenting.
Special thanks to shinho4869, Elvenstar146, dragonball256 and Lady Rini!
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Golden and Flame
Disclaimer: Fullmetal Alchemist characters do not belong to us. We're just having fun with them.
Chapter 28. Shared moments
It was amazing the immensity of things that could happen in just two months, which helped to bring normality back almost completely to Amestris. There was an undeniable increase in the number of people on the streets who had finally overcome the feeling of insecurity and discomfort that had been generated by the events of the Promised Day. Despite the uncertainty of the first few weeks, Grumman had received positive popularity ratings in the last month, which helped to dispel the latent fear of some national conflict over the change in succession.
Although Briggs' men were still not entirely well regarded, with the news of how they prevented a recent intrusion attempt by a large Drachma army, the population began to regain some confidence in them. They might not be the kind of people they wanted to see patrolling the streets but the fact that they protected the country's borders gave them a sense of security that made them grateful that Briggs' soldiers were part of Amestris.
After several days of hectic administrative movements to regularize the activities of the offices that belonged to the Central Command, this one was 80% complete in its reconstruction. Due to the construction work, only a few offices could be kept operating in the place, but Führer Grumman had managed to distribute the offices, making use mainly of the alchemical research laboratories (after a thorough inspection of the personnel and the activities carried out there).
Having secured some stability in the country, Grumman decided to promote almost all the military personnel who had served to defend Amestris during the fateful Promised Day (leaving aside, unfortunately, Briggs' soldiers). Because of this, as of two weeks ago, Roy had to start getting used to being called 'General'. But that was not all. All the members of his unit had been promoted one rank, so he also had to get used to referring to his fellow soldiers in a different way than he had in recent years. The only one who did not have access to a promotion was Havoc, who, being officially retired during Promised Day, could not be promoted in the same way as his peers. However, Grumman, with a wink, had told Havoc that surely next year something good could come for him. Although he couldn't deny that a promotion wouldn't hurt, Havoc was more than happy to have been able to rejoin the military for almost a month now.
Although the military and the country as a whole were undergoing major changes, these fell short compared to Roy's private life: After a somewhat heated discussion, Roy had managed to convince Ed to live with him until Al was discharged from the hospital.
A couple of days after the conversation that began a major turning point in the lives of Roy, Riza and Ed, Edward underwent surgery to remove the automail debris from his right shoulder. The procedure was relatively quick and uncomplicated, but the anesthesia used left Ed fast asleep for almost a full day, during which time neither Roy nor Riza left his side (which was placed in the same room as Al's thanks to Roy's influence) despite the obvious curiosity of their co-workers.
A week after Ed's operation, the doctor gave his clearance so the boy could be discharged (the man had incredible patience for putting up with Ed's constant complaints about wanting to leave from the moment he woke up). By that point, Roy and Riza had already returned to their military duties so they were unable to go visit the Elric's until the evening barely catching up with visiting hours. After a brief conversation with both brothers, Al took the opportunity to ask Roy and Riza to help him convince Ed to spend the night in a hotel. As in the days leading up to his surgery, Ed had every intention of spending the night in a chair. Aside from the fact that on this occasion the doctors would not allow him to do so (the first few days after the Promised Day visiting hours had not been respected) none of the three of them agreed to the eldest Elric spending the night that way.
At first Ed had completely refused the idea of being away from his brother but then Riza managed to convince him that both he and Al needed to rest. The first option was to go to a hotel but everyone's mouth dropped open when Roy, almost immediately, offered the guest room in his apartment.
The idea seemed completely normal to Roy but apparently Ed wasn't going to make it easy for him. So an argument ensued for several minutes that grew louder and louder until a nurse had to take the three of them out of the room, leaving Al alone but happy to know that, even if he had made a fuss, his brother was going to spend more time with his biological father since there was no way Riza was going to let Ed get away with it after causing the three of them to be kicked out of the hospital.
Once outside the hospital, and just as Al thought, Riza gave Ed no choice as she drove without stopping until she was outside Roy's apartment. At that point there was no longer really any hostility from Ed towards Roy but, because of the typical way those two related, the argument of the black-haired man and the blond had ended up getting a little out of hand. Besides, Riza was sure that the reason Edward had made such a fuss was because he couldn't get used to the idea of spending time alone with his father.
The first few days living under the same roof were a little awkward for both Roy and Ed but as the days went by they got used to each other's company. Unfortunately, Riza didn't get to spend as much time at Roy's apartment as she would have liked since they still had to be careful but that didn't stop her from arriving every few nights with dinner prepared for the three of them or sometimes having to go to Roy's apartment after work to "finish urgent paperwork".
Even though their family situation was far from what Roy had once dreamed of, he couldn't help but feel immensely blessed to have the opportunity to live with Riza and her son under the same roof, imagining that they lived like any other family would. Besides, the more time they spent together, the more the remnants of awkwardness were disappearing.
In the almost a month and a half that Ed had been living under his roof, Roy was getting used to his presence and his habits, so much so that he was no longer surprised by the boy's nightly visits to the bathroom or the immense amount of sugar the blond put in his coffee. What's more, he was so used to Ed's heavy sleep that he used it to his advantage. As soon as Roy would get up to start his morning routine prior to his workday, the black-haired man would head to the guest room to watch his son sleep. The sight of Ed sleeping practically sprawled across the double bed mattress, with the sheets tangled around his feet and his shirt pulled up to reveal his abdomen as his left hand rested on it always brought a smile to his face. It may have been ridiculous, but Roy had made it part of his routine to convince himself that this was real, that his son was with him.
During Ed's third week home, Roy had to ask him to accompany him to the office to sign the final papers for his resignation from the Army. Considering Ed's exploits as a state alchemist and especially during the Promised Day, it was not difficult to convince Grumman to provide him with a lifetime pension for his service to the country. In fact the final signing of the documents was delayed only by the general disarray in the offices as, to the surprise of the members of the Team Mustang, the necessary paperwork was completed by Roy in record time.
Although what Roy and Riza were most looking forward to was getting Edward out of the military, the moment Ed signed the last necessary document, a weight suddenly fell on them. That signature was one step closer to getting Ed away from them. Since they had been in the hospital, they had both been aware that the Elrics would be leaving for Resembool as soon as possible. With Ed's official resignation it was only a matter of waiting for Al's discharge from the hospital for the moment of separation to happen. They knew it was temporary but they had become so accustomed to their son's continued presence that it would now be difficult to get used to the idea that Edward would be several miles away from them. The Elrics had always been nomadic souls but knowing that didn't make it any easier.
On the same day that Ed signed his resignation papers, the members of the Team Mustang decided that it was necessary to give Edward a proper send-off. Roy and Riza appreciated the distraction and agreed to the request to leave an hour early so they would have plenty of time to celebrate. In addition, they both agreed that it was a perfect opportunity to reveal to their teammates the blood relationship that bound them together. Roy had tried to put it off as long as possible but realized he had better get it over with if he didn't want to get another call like the one the day before, in which General Armstrong threatened him with the integrity of his noble parts if she ran into Havoc the next time she went to Central. That's not to mention the obvious threat Olivier had established on Havoc's life. The call caused Roy to have to get Havoc into his office as soon as the Lieutenant set foot in the barracks during his first day back in the service. Surprisingly the blond managed to give vague answers to the incessant questioning but Roy realized that Riza's suspicions were true when he could hear Havoc mutter, as Havoc was leaving his office, that he just wanted to know if General Armstrong was the mother.
Roy offered his apartment for the celebration. Once everyone (with the exception of Falman who had long since returned to Briggs) was home and everyone's stomachs were full of Xing's food and, in the case of Breda and Havoc, for a couple of beers, Roy placed an arm around Riza's shoulders (causing raised eyebrows) and pulled Ed towards them by placing a hand on his shoulder (causing gaping mouths when they saw that the boy didn't pull away). Roy began, much to Riza's annoyance, by saying outright that Ed was their son and that Riza was the woman he had loved since he was a teenager.
The room was silent for a few moments as they processed the news. Although clearly upset at the way Roy had broken the news to them, Riza hadn't turned away from Roy making it clear how comfortable she was with that kind of gesture and Ed, for his part, had his gaze slightly downcast in a somewhat embarrassed expression but not enough to make the Colonel pull his hand away from his shoulder.
Memories of what they had discovered weeks ago at the hospital came to them all at once and, slowly, they put the pieces of the puzzle together. Realizing that Riza was the missing element in their equation the men pointed a finger at her and exclaimed What?! How?!
Riza sighed and lightly elbowed Roy in the ribs as she scolded him a bit for starting at the end of the story. Roy shrugged with a smug grin while Ed held a hand to his face as he muttered 'Idiot'.
Assuming, as always, the role of the one in charge of bringing order, Riza told her companions that the three of them trusted them very much and so they thought it appropriate to let them in on their secret, knowing that their secret would be safe with them. Although overwhelmed as they were taking in the news, the military men became serious and fervently declared that they would be a grave. Roy looked with a raised eyebrow at Havoc, who noticed the gesture and promised that he was going to behave himself from now on.
After those opening words, Riza began the story of her life with Roy with occasional interventions from the aforementioned, which made the three of them realize that the then Colonel was indeed capable of loving only one woman and that Riza had always been in love with him. Although none of them had thought that between these two there could be a relationship so deep that it had even brought a mutual child into the world, all three were extremely happy that, after so much suffering, Roy, Riza and Ed were able to form a family within what they could afford at the time.
At the end of the story, the three reiterated that they would not fail them and that they would keep that secret with their lives. This made Roy and Riza smile knowing that they had not been wrong in their decision to share the truth with them. However, that did not stop Havoc from making a move. Probably emboldened by the alcohol he had consumed, Jean stood up carrying a beer in one hand and put his free arm around Ed's shoulders congratulating him on being reunited with his birth parents. Ed thanked him as he tried to wiggle out of his grip but Havoc wouldn't budge. It was then that the older blond had the bright idea to offer the boy his beer. Ed refused but Havoc didn't give in (despite Riza's protest) saying it was a good idea since it would give his parents something new for them to witness. When the boy opened his mouth to protest, he took the opportunity to quickly force all the liquid down his throat, much to the dismay of everyone present.
As Ed coughed trying to recover from the bitter liquid that ran down his throat, Riza's patience ran out and she quickly grabbed Havoc's arm and placed it behind his back telling him Don't you dare continue to pervert my son, Havoc He's only 16! Jean began to frantically apologize and promised to do double paperwork the next day to make up for his mistake.
Once satisfied with Havoc's apology, Riza walked over to Ed and rubbed his back until the boy stopped coughing. Ed looked around and was met with concerned looks from everyone present... except for Roy. The black-haired man had his arms crossed and a slight wrinkle on his forehead that denoted the concern the others shared but other than that his expression was completely cheerful and probably proud. There was a special gleam in his eye and his lips were curved in a natural smile. At this, Ed exclaimed What the hell is so funny, you bastard?!, which caused Riza to see the same thing as he did and, consequently, to give Roy a murderous look, who quickly changed his expression.
The slight tension generated by Havoc's action disappeared shortly after that as Fuery and Breda began to lighten the mood with casual chatter about the clues they let go as it was now more than obvious why Roy and Ed were so similar in their characters. A few minutes later Roy and Riza returned to their seats and, when they did, the blonde beckoned Ed to sit next to her as he was doing before the announcement. That day, however, everyone present discovered something new about the boy: His low tolerance for alcohol.
All it had taken was the nearly full beer Havoc had given him to make the boy stagger as he walked. Perhaps it was because he was so young, but Ed's face had reddened and he almost fell over when he bumped into the coffee table. Seeing this Riza got up to help him to the couch while Havoc took the opportunity to excuse himself and flee the room before Riza was no longer occupied.
The meeting went on for a few more minutes until Fuery and Breda decided it was time to leave when they noticed that Ed, influenced by the alcohol, was nodding and mumbling unintelligible and slurred words.
After saying goodbye to his subordinates, Roy carried Ed in his arms to take him to his room, being surprised on the way when the boy snuggled against his chest as he quirked a sleepy smile. Roy smiled as well and made a point of removing his boots and covering him up well before leaving his room.
Riza, for her part, took it upon herself to leave a pitcher full of water on Ed's bedside table along with an aspirin and a couple of slices of toast. Hopefully she was wrong, but everything seemed to indicate that the boy was going to have his first hangover. When she got everything ready, Roy hugged her from behind and they both stood silently watching their son sleep. They had done that a couple of times before but every time they did it they enjoyed it as if it was the first time. Besides, there were fewer and fewer occasions when the opportunity arose since, when she visited them, Riza didn't usually leave very late so as not to arouse suspicion.
The next day Riza's suspicions were confirmed as Ed had woken up with a terrible headache and a terribly dry throat. What his mother had left on his bedside table disappeared in a matter of minutes and helped the boy gradually feel better.
When Ed shuffled out of his room, Roy was finishing his breakfast before leaving for work leaving, as usual, his son's breakfast on a plate by the stove. It didn't take Roy asking for him to realize that the blond was dealing with his first hangover and, even if Riza was upset about it, he couldn't help but feel happy and proud to be there to witness it. He had missed out on so much in his life that he was grateful for any new experience of his son's that he could witness.
After cursing at a bottle of whiskey that sat in the cupboard above where his breakfast was, Ed took his plate and sat down at the table, an occasion that Roy took the opportunity to ask him how he was feeling and if he had taken what Riza had left for him. When the boy answered his questions, Roy suggested that he stay home to rest, knowing that his proposal would be immediately rejected. Events like the previous day aside, Ed spent the entire visiting hours with his brother so that day would be no exception.
Three weeks after Ed's first hangover, Roy returned to his apartment after his workday, and was immediately greeted by an extremely smiling Edward as soon as he crossed the threshold of his entryway.
"Al will be discharged tomorrow!" Ed exclaimed excitedly.
Roy smiled and began asking him the details of Alphonse's medical discharge. With how swamped he had been with work he hadn't been able to visit him as much as he would have liked although Ed updated him daily on the progress of Al's therapy. Roy was very happy to know that Al would finally be able to leave the hospital and begin to fully enjoy his body but he couldn't help but feel sad at the same time. The days of living with his son on a daily basis were coming to an end.
The next day, taking advantage of the fact that it was a Saturday, Riza took it upon herself to organize a small welcoming committee for the youngest Elric. While Roy accompanied Ed to pick up Al, Riza prepared a large banquet with the help of Gracia and little Elicia. Rebeca, Maria (who had been reinstated to public life but had refrained from rejoining the military) and Denny took charge of decorating Roy's apartment. Shortly before Al's arrival, the members of the Mustang unit, accompanied by Sheska and Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong, arrived with some drinks and desserts prepared with a recipe that had been passed down from generation to generation.
As soon as Roy opened the door so Al could enter the apartment, the new arrivals were greeted by a flurry of confetti, which brought a huge smile to the youngest Elric's face. Once Al sat down in the most comfortable armchair in the apartment, everyone present took the opportunity to hug Al, a gesture that the boy quite enjoyed since in the hospital he was not allowed to be so close to so many people due to how weakened his immune system had been.
The party was a whirlwind of joy and good fellowship. Despite being a bit cramped in the apartment, everyone managed to have a good time with some board games and funny and even embarrassing stories being shared by different people. All the while Ed and Al wore huge smiles on their faces.
Taking advantage of everyone laughing at the panicked jump and scream Breda let out when Black Hayate brushed his leg as he approached Al (Riza brought him along so Al could enjoy petting an animal's fur), Roy took the opportunity to sneak into the kitchen of his apartment meeting the bright olive gaze of Gracia Hughes.
"Shall I pour you some?" Gracia asked kindly pointing to the pitcher of punch she had prepared for the party.
"Please." Roy said as he held out his glass to her. He was actually looking for some whiskey to close the evening on a high note but it was hard to turn down something coming from his best friend's wife.
"Here you go."
"Thanks." Roy took a sip of his drink as he leaned back against one of the kitchen countertops.
Noticing his somewhat thoughtful air, Gracia interrupted the brief silence. "He'll be fine. He's not going to forget you, let alone abandon you or Riza. Surely it won't be long before he visits you."
Roy smiled. "Am I that obvious?"
Gracia smiled back. "It's just that you remind me of Maes the first time Elicia went to play at a friend's house."
Roy snorted and ran a hand over his face though that didn't erase his smile. "Geez, I thought that was just his thing."
"He always told me you were more like him than you dared to admit."
They both began to laugh lightly as they fondly reminisced about Maes Hughes.
During Ed's first week in his apartment, Roy had worked up the courage to go visit the Hughes. With everything that had happened it had been a long time since he had been to the Hughes home. The last time he had gone Maes was still alive...
Elicia was immensely happy to see him and clung to his leg practically throughout his visit even when Roy wanted to carry her to put her on his lap. Roy apologized to Gracia for taking so long to come see them when he should have been with them when Maes passed away. Gracia, as kind as ever, told him that he had no reason to apologize as she knew that everyone dealt with their grief in their own way.
Given the kindness and familiarity with which Gracia treated him despite his absence in recent months, Roy felt he should repay her kindness with trust so he ended up telling her his story with Riza and Ed. Gracia seemed surprised to learn that Edward was his son but not so much about Riza. Unable to contain his curiosity, Roy asked her why she didn't seem surprised about Riza.
"Easy." Gracia said with a smile. "Your glances gave you two away. It was obvious there was something between you. Although..." Her smile showed a hint of guilt. "I must confess that Maes told me your story after Elicia's first birthday party. I couldn't contain my curiosity at seeing you so nostalgic and lost that day. I'm sorry."
"You have nothing to apologize for. In fact, forgive me for not telling you sooner. Maes was like a brother to me and I should have placed the same trust in the woman he loved madly, considering he was always there for me when I needed him. Besides you've been like him too, you've always been so kind to me and Riza and we weren't entirely honest with you. I'm so sorry." Roy finished with a slightly regretful tone.
Gracia maintained her smile as she reached out slightly to place her hand over Roy's. "I guess we're playing a game of who's more apologetic, aren't we?" Roy smiled back. "There's no point in regretting the past. Now you and Riza have a chance to let go of your past pain and enjoy your present." Roy wanted to intervene but Gracia wouldn't let him. "I know you carry the weight of your mistakes but that shouldn't stop you from giving yourselves a chance to be happy. Besides I'm sure Ed doesn't want you to torture yourselves with the past. He likes to walk forward right?" Roy nodded with a proud expression on his face. "So what do you say we better organize a family reunion. I'm sure Elicia is dying to see her Aunt Riza and her brother Ed aren't you, my girl?"
"Yes!" Elicia let go of Roy's leg and quickly climbed up on the couch to sit on the black-haired man's lap while waving her arms. "I want to see my brother Al too!"
"Maybe Al can't come yet but what do you say we go see him tomorrow at the hospital?" said Gracia kindly.
"Yes!"
Roy smiled as he hugged the little girl. He had tortured himself so long with his mistakes that he had forgotten that he had many people who supported and loved him. He had thought that with Hughes' death he had lost the feeling of brotherhood that he gave him but that wasn't quite true. He had lost his brother but Maes, even if he wasn't still there, had given him another family that would welcome him with open arms.
Gracia was one of the few people who were aware of the blood relationship that bound him and Riza to Ed. Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong had proven to be someone they could trust but Roy and Riza had decided to share their secret with him when Ed was back on Resembool. With the magnitude of the news, they wanted to make sure the boy returned to the Rockbells with all his ribs unharmed.
Izumi and Sig Curtis were also told the truth. Roy and Riza hardly knew them but it was obvious that both Ed and Al were very fond of them so their secret was in no danger of reaching the wrong ears. However, the truth came to the couple unexpectedly.
Shortly before Ed was discharged after his operation, on an occasion when Roy and Riza went to visit the boys in their room during their lunch break, they were both greeted by an intense scowl from Izumi and a clear protective barrier with his own body from Sig in front of Al's bed. It was obvious from the look on Izumi's face that she still had certain misgivings about the military.
Remembering who they were (though she was still surprised to note that Roy had actually regained his sight as Ed had mentioned to her a couple of days ago) Izumi spoke. "Colonel, Lieutenant." She said with a slight bow directed at each. "To what do we owe your visit?"
"We came to see the boys." Replied Riza with a kind tone and trying not to take another step forward, realizing that the woman was not at ease with their presence.
"Hey, Colonel, Lieutenant!" greeted Al cheerfully from his bed although the newcomers could only catch a glimpse of his hand protruding over Sig's shoulder, who covered the view to his bed almost completely.
"Hey." Greeted Ed with a smile.
Both Roy and Riza were about to return the greeting when Izumi interjected. "Well, you saw them." She said as she waved a hand in a not so subtle gesture that she didn't want them there any longer.
Roy couldn't help but frown slightly. "This is not what we were referring to."
"Sensei." Ed tried to get Izumi's attention but she ignored him.
"It's not my fault you don't use the right words." Izumi replied nonchalantly.
Roy sighed and massaged the bridge of his nose before replying. "Alright. We came to see AND talk to the boys."
"We won't be long." Riza added in a calm tone trying to gain at least a little trust from the woman.
Noticing that it wouldn't be easy to get Izumi to agree, Ed got up from his bed and tried to approach the three but his sensei's ear immediately detected his movement as soon as his feet touched the floor.
"Stay in bed, Edward! Doctor's orders." She said as she gave him a stern look.
Ed flinched noticeably. "But it's just that-"
"No buts! To bed." She said as she pointed a finger at the aforementioned object.
Roy had noticed that the woman had a strong voice and presence but the tone she used with Ed reminded him that he had heard her voice before. "It's you." Izumi turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow. "You were the one who helped me when we were in the homunculus' lair." Bowing briefly he added. "I thank you for your valuable help when I ended up becoming a burden. But most of all, I thank you for giving your all to protect the Elrics and the entire country."
A flash of confusion passed over Izumi's face. In itself it was odd for Ed to ask me to take care of his superior but... does this dog of the military also see for him and his brother?
"I think I remember now, you must be the boys' sensei right?" Riza said kindly. At the slight nod from the black-haired woman, Riza smiled and also gave a slight bow. "Thank you for everything you've taught the boys and for always looking out for them."
Izumi's confusion grew but she didn't let that stop her. "Your thanks are of no interest to me."
Though fearing for his physical integrity, Ed took the opportunity while Roy and Riza were talking to approach the black-haired woman and then put a trembling hand on Izumi's shoulder. "Sensei, let me explain."
"I told you to stay in bed." Izumi said with an authoritative tone but Ed didn't move giving her his typical determined look. She sighed and placed her hand on his head to pull him to her side protectively. "I know you two actively supported in the fight against the homunculus but..." Izumi said looking at the military men as she examined their uniforms. "If you are here within your working hours it means that you are here to take Ed with you right?"
"Sensei..."
Izumi pulled Ed closer to her to silence him. "These guys have already done too much for the country. They deserve a rest plus Ed no longer has any reason to stay in the military."
"I agree with you, Mrs. Curtis." Said Riza
"Then go away. My husband and I are looking out for them and we're not going to let you pressure them with your-"
"We're not here because of what you think!" interrupted Roy abruptly as he began to feel somewhat annoyed at having to waste what little time he had available to spend with the boys.
If there was one thing that bothered Izumi it was someone interrupting her. "Just because your salary comes from MY taxes doesn't mean you have the right to interrupt me whenever you feel like it." Izumi said with a murderous look on her face as she cracked her fingers.
Taking advantage of Izumi having let go, Ed held her by the forearm trying to reassure her. "He didn't do it on purpose, Sensei. It's just that the Colonel never learned that sometimes he does the world a favor when he doesn't talk."
Roy frowned and was about to retort when Riza gave him a stern look. She was trying to test the waters bit by bit since Izumi seemed to be a rigid and, above all, very protective woman with the Elrics but Roy ended up sending everything down the drain with his abrupt intervention.
Keeping her tone calm, Riza tried to salvage the situation. "Ma'am, if I may we can clear this situation up quickly."
Izumi looked at her carefully before replying. "Alright but I hope this guy has the decency to keep quiet and not interrupt me again." She said pointing at Roy with her thumb.
"This guy? If you had let me you would know my name is Roy Mustang." Said the Colonel without putting any thought into the consequences.
Riza sighed heavily at Roy's childish attitude, and Ed face-palmed. This conversation would not go well at all.
Izumi and Roy began to argue (in a firm tone but with a low volume to avoid being dragged out of the room by a nurse), getting completely out of the reason for this encounter. Riza would occasionally try to intervene in a friendly voice but her interventions were easily ignored by the two black-haired people. Ed tried to get Izumi's attention but only earned a murderous look that dissuaded him from trying any further.
After a couple of minutes of pointless discussion, Al sighed and asked Sig to lock the door. The man was intrigued by the request but Al's puppy dog look was more than enough to give in to his wish.
Once Sig closed the door (being completely ignored by the four people standing near it), Al inhaled deeply before speaking in a voice loud enough for those involved in the discussion to hear without it ending up becoming a shout that someone on the outside could hear. "Colonel Mustang and Lieutenant Hawkeye are here because they are Ed's biological parents."
The discussion was abruptly cut off being covered by a dense silence.
Izumi and Sig froze for a few moments in surprise until she was able to utter a confused What?
Riza directed a grateful smile at Al before answering Izumi's question. "Al is telling the truth. I apologize for not giving myself some time earlier so I could tell you how this is possible but, if I may, I can explain what happened."
Izumi looked at her in disbelief before turning to look at Ed, who was still by her side. "Is that true?"
In a firm voice, Ed replied. "Yes, they are my real parents."
To Roy and Riza's surprise, Izumi smacked the back of Ed's head. "Then why didn't you tell me from the start?"
"That's what I was trying to do." Ed muttered to himself as he rubbed the back of his neck, knowing it was no use for Izumi to hear that comment.
After that, Izumi led Ed over to his bed and sat down next to him while Sig did the same on Al's bed. Roy and Riza pulled up a couple of chairs and began the story of their past. When they finished, the Curtis couple was frankly shocked but Izumi couldn't help but feel a certain connection with Riza as she realized that she too would go to great lengths to protect her son. Their hostility, although Izumi's was more evident, disappeared when, at the end of the story, the Curtises realized that Ed's parents also wanted to get the boy as far away from the army as possible.
From there, a more pleasant talk between everyone began, in turn kicking off a sincere friendship between the Curtises, Roy and Riza. Although Riza was somewhat uncomfortable to learn the details of the type of training she had given the Elrics when they were just kids, she was very grateful to the Curtises as she realized how much they loved and wanted the best for Ed and Al.
On the other hand, Rebeca was also part of the big revelation, being one of the first to find out. The day Roy and Riza were discharged, Rebeca went to see them to bring them clean clothes and to help Riza put away their belongings. Her attitude about Roy had improved but she still enjoyed teasing him occasionally with nicknames and hints about his "extensive romantic record."
As Roy headed to the bathroom to shave (as well as to escape for a few minutes from the teasing he had been subjected to in the last few minutes by Rebeca), Riza decided it was the perfect time to tell her the truth. Like everyone else, Rebeca's mouth dropped open for a few seconds before she hugged Riza as she let out a couple of tears. After so much pain it was practically a blessing to know that Riza had found her son and that the boy had accepted her and Roy as his parents.
Riza hugged her back tightly and took the opportunity to thank her once again for her friendship and for the support she had given her all that time.
When they parted, Rebeca used her brightest, most pleading eyes to ask Riza to introduce her to Ed (in all these years she had bumped into him a couple of times but they had only shared a couple of quick hellos). Riza was a little hesitant to do so as she knew how effusive Rebeca could be and didn't know if Ed was ready to start being introduced as her son but, when her friend reminded her that she wanted to meet her honorary godson, she couldn't resist any longer. It was the least she could do for Rebeca, who had helped her every step of the way.
Riza let Roy know that she was going out for a moment and, in Rebeca's company, headed for the Elrics' room. As soon as they entered their destination, Riza made sure to lock the door before walking over to greet each of the boys, starting with Alphonse. After greeting Edward, she stood next to him before properly introducing Rebeca.
"Alphonse, Edward, I suppose you've run into each other on occasion but let me introduce her to you properly. This is Rebeca. She's my friend or rather I should almost almost call her my sister." She said as she flashed a smile at her friend. "She has been quite supportive since I met her at the military academy. Actually she was the one who offered me her brother's house during my pregnancy." The boys' eyes widened a bit more as they understood that the black-haired girl was privy to the secret. " In fact, it could be said that she is your honorary godmother, Edward." After flashing a smile at both boys, she looked back at her friend. " Rebeca, these are the Elric brothers. Alphonse..." She said as she looked at the aforementioned for a moment.
"Nice to meet you." Al said politely with a smile.
Rebeca walked over to the boy to shake his hand. "The pleasure is all mine, Alphonse. I've heard a lot about you two although I remembered you taller."
Al put a hand to the back of his neck as he let out a light chuckle. "Yes, I guess there have been some changes in the last few days."
"But it seems like it's all for the best." She said as she flashed a smile at Riza before turning back to look at Al. "Besides, good thing you're not wearing that huge armor anymore. You were depriving all the young ladies of admiring that beautiful face. I wouldn't be surprised if, as soon as you get out of here, a fan club is founded in your honor."She said with a mischievous grin.
Al blushed. "Oh... thanks... I guess." He replied embarrassed.
Rebeca patted Al's cheek (causing the boy's blush to intensify) before turning to look at Riza with an expectant look.
Riza sighed at the immense confidence with which her friend approached the boy, then smiled with joy and pride. "And he..." She placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. "is Edward, my son."
Riza gave the boy's shoulder an affectionate squeeze before pulling away from the bed slightly to allow Rebeca to approach Ed as he looked at her friend curiously.
"Wow..." Ed said as he took in Riza's words, realizing that this was the first time his birth parents had introduced him as their son. A little nervously, he said. "Uh... nice to meet you. Thanks for helping the Li-" He shook his head slightly. "Thanks for helping Mom."
Rebeca smiled broadly as she waved a hand dismissively. "You don't have to thank me for anything. I did it with pleasure. Riza is the best friend I could have ever had." Beginning to invade Ed's personal space, she added. "You don't know how glad I am to meet you. Let me tell you, after Riza, obviously, I was the first to know you were coming."
"Really? Oh I haven't-"
Ed was abruptly interrupted as Rebeca covered the short distance separating them to pull him into her arms, pulling him tightly against her chest causing a slight blush to appear on the blond's cheeks.
"I can't believe it, I finally get to meet you! You're so big! Well, considering who your idiot father is I thought you'd be almost his height by now but well, maybe it's your destiny to be a little short."
A vein swelled in Ed's forehead but Rebeca kept an incredibly tight grip on him which prevented him from retorting at her comment. So he began to wave his arms slightly as, in addition to his wounded pride, he was having a little trouble breathing.
"Becky." Riza tried to intervene as she noticed how tightly her friend was holding her son.
Ignoring Riza, Rebeca began to lightly shake Ed from side to side without loosening her grip. "Do you know you're the only godson I have? I didn't want anyone to take your place so I'm not godmother to anyone else. Well no one has asked me but even if they had, I wouldn't have accepted it." She let out a light laugh. "Although I must admit I'm still having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that you're Mustang's son. I mean Riza and Mustang? Sometimes I think your mother lost her mind when she fell in love with him. I even initially thought that either he had taken advantage of her or that Riza just got carried away with his muscles. I hate to say it but I have to admit that your father has always had an enviable body."
"Rebeca!" Riza exclaimed with a slight blush on her cheeks.
This time Rebeca did turn to look at her but only gave her a huge smile of false innocence before continuing her monologue. "Although... what is this I feel?" Rebeca squeezed Ed even tighter for a moment before pulling away and placing her hands on the boy's forearms giving them a few squeezes as the blond caught his breath. "Well, well. Looks like the fitness thing can be passed down genetically. You sure do weights don't you? But... what happened to your metal arm?" She asked intrigued.
A little groggy from the little oxygen he had received and slightly sore because of his right shoulder, Ed answered. "It's a long story." He said as he tried to take a step backward bumping into the small nightstand that stood in the room, preventing him from putting as much distance between them as he wanted.
"Well, how about coming over to my apartment one day? As your godmother I have all the time in the world to hear all about you."
"Thanks, I guess uh... Lieutenant, if I remember correctly."
"What do you mean 'Lieutenant'?" Rebeca said as she puffed out her cheeks and put her hands on her hips. "I'm your godmother, don't forget that. Although well I haven't heard many godchildren address their godmothers that way. Hmmm how about 'Aunt Becky'? Or just 'Becky'? We don't have to be formal with each other, after all we're practically family aren't we?"
Riza smiled at Rebeca's comment and Ed mimicked her. Rebeca was a power bomb and took certain liberties but he had to confess that, while she was certainly invasive of his personal space, she was nice. That's not to mention that he felt grateful to her for being supportive of his mother when she was surely worried about her pregnancy.
Ed put a hand to his chin for a few seconds. "I can give it a try. It'll just take some getting used to."
"That's the attitude!" Rebeca said cheerfully before bringing her face within inches of Ed's, causing the boy to startle slightly. "Gosh, I can't believe I didn't pay attention before. You have a rather unusual eye color." Turning her face slightly towards Riza, she turned to her friend. "Riza, are you 100% sure he's the idiot Colonel's son?"
Bringing a hand to her forehead as she sighed, Riza replied. "For the hundredth time, Becky, yes, Edward is mine and Roy's son. You well know there has been no one else in my life."
"I know, but admit it. You love it when I tell you that so you can reaffirm to the four winds your love for your man of fire." Rebeca said with a smile.
Again Riza's cheeks flushed. "Becky, don't you think you're too close to Edward?"
"Wow, I didn't think you were one of those jealous, overprotective moms, my friend." Rebeca said with a cheeky grin then turned to stare at Ed again. Without warning she brought both hands to the boy's cheeks keeping the extreme closeness between their faces. "I must say you are very handsome." Ed's blush became more visible. "Your parents sure know how to make cute babies." Giving Ed's cheeks a few pinches, she finally took a step away from him to look at her friend. "Hey, Riza, why aren't you older?"
As Ed took advantage of the small space to flee to his brother's side, Riza asked. "I don't understand you, what's the point of your question?"
"Isn't it obvious? So you could bring Ed into this world a few years early. He'd be the perfect match for me don't you think?"
Riza rolled her eyes. "I thank you for the compliments for my son but enough with the jokes. You're overwhelming us all." She said as she discreetly nodded her head at Ed, who was still blushing and looking wary.
"I'm not kidding." Turning to look at the older Elric, she flashed him a flirtatious smile. "I have no experience with men younger than me but there's always a first time. I can wait until you come of age, what do you say?" she concluded with a wink.
Ed covered himself with Al's body to avoid making further eye contact with Rebeca.
Before Rebeca forced the boy to give an answer, Riza placed her hands on the black-haired woman's shoulders giving her light pushes in the direction of the door. "Enough, Becky. I think this was a bad idea."
Rebeca buried her feet in the floor and waved her arms frantically. "Wait! Wait! I was kidding! You know how I am, besides what kind of godmother would I be if I had a romantic relationship with my own godson?"
After a brief, somewhat dramatic discussion courtesy of Rebeca, the black-haired woman controlled herself enough to have a civilized conversation with everyone in the room. Although Ed was a bit reserved at first because of Rebeca's very trusting attitude, as the conversation went on he got used to her personality and even discovered that she had some rather amusing nicknames for Roy. He also ended up realizing that, despite her eccentricities, Rebeca was definitely a good person.
The Elrics, Riza and Rebecca had a nice time and, from that day on, Rebeca became one of his frequent visitors whenever she could. However, although Ed was fond of the black-haired woman, the boy was having a hard time adjusting to her very constant invasions of his personal space.
Because of the above, Roy was not surprised to see that, after leaving the kitchen following his brief conversation with Gracia, Ed was positioning himself on the other side of the room to put some distance between himself and Rebeca, after the latter gave him another smothering hug. She may not have had the musculature and strength of Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong but the black-haired woman was certainly no slouch at showing her emotions.
Seeing Ed, once in his new corner a bit apart from the others, taking a deep breath to catch his breath, Roy let out a light chuckle that didn't go unnoticed by the older Elric.
"What?" Ed asked with a frown.
"Nothing." Ed's frown became more pronounced. "Looks like Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong isn't the only one who knows how to take your breath away."
Ed's frown disappeared, giving way to a thoughtful expression. "Sometimes I think women are scarier than men like the Lieutenant Colonel." He said as he shivered slightly.
Roy walked over and leaned his back against the wall Ed was leaning against. "Scary huh?" His gaze found Riza, who was chatting happily with Al while the boy was still petting Black Hayate. This brought a smile to his face. "Maybe you're right, women can become scary but the reasons may be different." Ed raised an eyebrow. "For example, General Armstrong can almost kill you with one look, while Riza knows how to be scary in the office when she gets serious. Although... I think maybe it's more frightening how she makes me feel. By her presence alone Riza has made me think of no other woman but her for almost 20 years now."
"So you're terrified of being in love?"
Roy's smile widened. "Of Riza? Never. I actually feel blessed that she reciprocates my feelings and has given me a son like you." He said as he put a hand on the boy's shoulder.
At that point Ed was already used to the occasions when Roy called him 'son' so he no longer flinched when the black-haired man put a hand on his shoulder and simply smiled. "Who knew? Even procrastinating bastards can fall madly in love."
"Hey." He was slightly rebuked by Roy.
"What, old man?" Ed asked with a huge grin as he addressed Roy as he had been doing lately.
Noticing the spark of mischief that was in his eyes, Roy verified that his slight insult wasn't meant seriously, so he decided to tease him a little. "Just wait until it knocks on your door. When love comes knocking at your door you'll understand what it's like to be head over heels in love." The hand he kept on the blond's shoulder made him feel Ed's subtle shudder. "Although... apparently you don't have to wait anymore."
A slight blush appeared on Ed's cheeks.
At the blond's lack of response, Roy asked. "What's wrong?"
"N-nothing. I just don't know what you mean." He said with a tone of mock disbelief.
"Oh, really?" he sighed exaggeratedly. "Poor Miss Rockbell. I'm afraid she'll have to wait a long time."
"Why are you mentioning Winry?!"
"Am I wrong?" Roy asked with a knowing smile on his face.
Ed looked at him silently for a few moments with his mouth slightly open as his face went from a subtle pink blush to a deep red. Finding no way to refute what the General was saying, Ed folded his arms and turned his face to the opposite side of where Roy stood. "Whatever."
Roy couldn't help but laugh briefly. "Come on, son, you don't have to be embarrased. What you're feeling is completely normal."
Ed pretended not to hear him.
Roy sighed. "How about a couple of tips?"
Ed looked at him again. "From the most recognized womanizer in all of East and Central? I'll pass."
"Ed..."
"Yeah, yeah. Just kidding." Said Ed, who was already more aware of Roy's supposed romantic background. "I think I can manage perfectly well on my own."
"Sure, since you're fully capable of talking about love without looking like a tomato..." Roy said sarcastically.
"Hey! That was because you caught me off guard." Lied Ed.
"Yeah, yeah whatever you say."
Ed frowned. "I'm serious!"
"Right."
"Bastard." Ed muttered between his teeth.
"I'll just ask you to remember something, Ed."
"What?"
"The talk I gave you a couple of years ago. I'm too young for you to make me a grandfather."
Just as Ed's blush seemed to be fading, it returned with greater intensity. "What the hell?! Why do you have to keep reminding me of that when I don't even have a girlfriend?! Besides, even if I want kids that doesn't mean I want them already." Realizing what had come out of his mouth, Ed brought a hand to it to cover it.
Roy looked at him with a raised eyebrow as he tried to control the laughter that wanted to escape him. "Kids... So not just one huh?" Making an effort to get serious, he placed a hand on Ed's shoulder. "If you want them, then for the time being, try not to say anything to Miss Rockbell. You might scare her away."
Ed's face couldn't get any redder than it already was, so after a few seconds Roy couldn't contain himself any longer and began to laugh. Realizing that some people were turning in his direction, Ed turned a scowl in Roy's direction before running off to the apartment kitchen.
Just as Roy was wiping away a tear, Riza appeared at his side with a curious and slightly worried expression. "Roy, what did you do to Edward?"
"Why do you always have to assume I did something to him?" Riza just looked at him with a serious expression and a raised eyebrow, causing him to sigh before answering. "I swear, I didn't do anything to him. He just gave me good material all by himself.
"What do you mean?"
Noticing that the others had returned their attention to their own activities and that Lieutenant Colonel Armstrong was talking animatedly with Ross and Brosh, Roy drew Riza to him with one arm. "He inadvertently confessed to me that he'd like to have children." He gently brushed aside a lock of Riza's hair, tucking it behind her ear.
Riza also checked to make sure Armstrong was occupied before leaning back against Roy a little more.
At the black-haired man's words, Riza couldn't help but smile. "And by any chance did that confession come from something related to Winry?"
"Indeed."
"Then what's so funny? It sounds adorable to me." Riza said in confusion at the big laugh Roy had let out moments before.
"I agree with you." He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "The thing is, I can't believe how much Ed resembles me. I was probably the same age as Ed when I started thinking I'd like to start a family with you in the future." Riza blushed slightly. "That similarity was funny to me and that's not to mention the very embarrassed expression our son had when he realized what he had said." He concluded with a smile.
Riza gave him a gentle affectionate smack on the shoulder as she turned away from him. "You shouldn't laugh at your son like that, especially when you yourself admit that you were just like him at his age." She said with a smile, unable to help but feel a little amused at the situation. "Besides, I find it amazing that you even barely notice how similar you two are. Though well, I guess better late than never." Riza added with a slight teasing tone to tease Roy a bit.
Roy pouted. "Riza, are you implying something?"
"Not at all." Riza replied with a smile that made Roy forget about the slight teasing the blonde had done to him. "I'd better go see Edward. I'd hate for him to miss the rest of the celebration." Giving him a kiss on the cheek, Riza headed for the kitchen followed intently by Roy's gaze.
I'm going to miss this. Roy thought with a slightly sad smile. After the events of the Promised day, he was willing to pursue a romantic relationship with Riza but, unfortunately, his son would not be with them. He knew that distance was a relative thing but when Riza and Ed were in his apartment he really felt like he was in the home he always dreamed of. The home Hughes always insisted he pursue.
As night fell the party came to an end. The guests said their goodbyes with big hugs and good wishes to the two Elrics, knowing that it would surely not be long before the boys were on their way to Resembool.
Rebeca, Havoc and Breda stayed extra time in the room, arguing that they were in a close poker competition. Riza thanked them, but the three pretended not to understand why she was thanking them and joked that Roy would surely get tired of them and kick them out of there. Riza smiled at their comments knowing that in reality those three were actually making time to wait for her and subsequently escort her to her own apartment to thereby help make it not look suspicious for Riza to leave during the night from Roy's apartment.
As Al had started to yawn a bit, Ed told him that he better get some sleep so both brothers headed for the guest room. After a few minutes, someone knocked on the bedroom door.
"Come in." Said Ed, who was standing on the side of the bed Al was lying on.
Roy and Riza entered the room.
"Is everything okay? Do you need another pillow or more sheets?" asked Roy even though he had asked those questions several times the previous day to make sure Al was as comfortable as possible.
Ed rolled his eyes but his smile gave away that he was grateful. "For the hundredth time, it's all good, old man."
Al, who was lying on the bed with his pajamas already on, replied. "Everything's fine over here, General. Thank you very much. And many thanks to you too, Lieutenant. The party was a lot of fun." He said with a smile.
Riza smiled back. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Alphonse."
"Quite a bit, I think with everything I ate today I should gain at least about ten pounds by now." Al said with a chuckle that was interrupted by another yawn.
"Well, I guess that's our cue." Roy said as he brought his hand to the doorknob. "If you need anything don't hesitate to tell me."
Riza was about to approach both boys to give them a kiss on the forehead when Ed spoke up.
"Wait." Roy turned to look at him. "Actually, I need to talk to both of you."
Roy raised an eyebrow but said nothing, opting only to move to Riza's side to place his arm around the blonde's shoulders.
"What's going on, Edward?" Riza asked.
"Well..." The boy ducked his gaze for a few moments before continuing. "You see, Al and I have been talking for the past few days and..." He bit his lower lip before concluding as he stared at them. "We were thinking of taking the Monday noon train."
"Oh." Roy exclaimed as he unconsciously pulled Riza a little closer to him.
To Ed the subtle changes of expression on his parents' faces did not go unnoticed. Both tried hard to keep their faces composed, but their gazes hinted at the slight sadness that the news was causing them.
Trying to do something about it, Ed hastened to add. "It's not that I don't like being with you but-"
Riza interrupted him by flashing a reassuring smile. "You don't have to explain yourself to us, Edward."
Noticing Riza's subtle sadness, Al interjected. "Maybe we can wait a few more days."
"Yes and after all there are several trains leaving for Resembool. " Ed seconded.
"We'll be fine, son." Roy said with a slight smile. "Thank you for worrying about us but we know you are both eagerly awaited in Resembool. It would be selfish of us to keep you here."
"Are you sure?" Ed asked.
They both nodded and Riza said. "Of course. We're going to miss you guys a lot but we know this isn't goodbye."
Al smiled slightly. "Sure. I'll make a point of reminding Ed to call and send letters."
"Hey." Ed grumbled.
"You gotta admit you're not very good at it, brother. Why do you think Winry almost always greets you with a wrench in your face for not letting her know we were on our way?"
"You weren't calling her either."
"I was just following your lead." Al said with a smile of false innocence.
Ed shot Al a scowl before turning to look at his parents. "Well, also, if you're not too busy, we could come over and visit."
"I'd love that." Riza said with a smile that seemed to cover the sadness she had felt earlier.
"Yes. Don't forget this is your room so you can use it whenever you want." Roy added also with a smile on his face.
Ed's eyes widened a little more at the surprise and a slight blush momentarily appeared on his cheeks as he scratched one of them with a finger. "Oh... ok."
"Also, I hope you don't mind if we visit you guys at Resembool too." Roy said.
"That would be great." Said Al with a smile.
"Yeah, you can go anytime you want." Agreed Ed with a smile before his expression turned thoughtful. "Although-"
Riza interrupted him. "Surely Mrs. Rockbell won't be too happy to see us." Ed nodded a little sheepishly. "Don't worry, Edward. Roy and I are aware of that which is why we were thinking of going to see her soon to talk to her. She may not want to hear from us but we still need to thank her for all she's done for both of you."
Roy put his free hand to the back of his neck. "Besides, I still owe her an apology for the way I broke into her house."
"You should know that's why she's always said you have lousy manners." Ed said.
Roy sighed and ran his hand over his face. "Serves me right." He lowered his hand and smiled. "Anyway... we'd like to go to Resembool with you but I'm afraid we have some unfinished business at the office that we have to attend to on Monday so would it be okay if we came to visit next weekend?"
"Sure." Ed said with a huge smile. It had only been two months since he had accepted his origin and his birth parents but he knew he was going to miss them a lot when he was in Resembool so the thought of seeing them soon was a great relief.
"Good, then tomorrow we'll arrange everything so you can leave for Resembool on Monday." Riza said with a smile.
"Thank you, Captain." Al said.
After some more small talk, Roy and Riza left the room but not before giving them a hug and a kiss on the forehead (from Riza) and ruffling their hair a bit (from Roy).
On Monday at noon, Roy, Riza, Ed, Al and Fuery (for the sake of appearances) were sitting on the benches at the train station waiting for the announcement to board the train to Resembool. The three adults were dressed in their military uniforms as they had taken advantage of the lunch hour to take the Elrics to the station wanting to be with them until the last moment.
When the station spokesman announced that the train to Resembool would be leaving in five minutes, Al said he wanted to go ahead since he was still moving a little slow (although everyone was grateful to him knowing he wanted to give them a couple of minutes alone), so Fuery offered to accompany him once Roy and Riza had said goodbye to him.
Once Al got a couple of feet away from them, Ed peeled his gaze away from his brother to turn to look at his parents as he rocked slightly on his feet. "Well... I guess I'd better get on the train."
Riza was the first to approach him. "Take care of yourself, Edward." She pulled him to her to hug him tightly. "Please, when you get there call us."
Ed returned the hug tightly as he laughed lightly to himself. He was still dealing with certain things that he had to get used to but that pleased him. It had been a long time since he had heard his mother, Trisha, give him any indication when he went, for example, to the little market in Resembool.
"I will. Also take good care of yourselves." Gulping at what he was about to say, Ed added. "I'm going to miss you... Captain." Even though there weren't many people on the platform, the boy opted to refer to Riza by her title so as not to risk anyone overhearing them.
"We're going to miss you a lot too." Reluctantly, Riza pulled away from him and held him a few seconds at a small distance from her so she could put her hands on the blond's shoulders. With a smile she told him. "At least it won't be long before we see each other again. We'll see each other at the weekend, okay?"
"Of course." Ed said with a big smile. When Riza pulled her arms away, the boy turned in Roy's direction. "Hey."
Roy swallowed trying to push away the lump that wanted to form in his throat. How was it possible that the great and powerful Flame Alchemist felt like crying over a simple farewell? How ridiculous! It wasn't like he was going to miss Ed's snoring, or having his company at breakfast time, or talking about alchemy issues after work, or watching him sleep, or... Roy shook his head slightly. That train of thought would definitely end up making him cry.
Realizing that Ed was raising an eyebrow at his lack of response, Roy cleared his throat and tried to use the firm voice he used for work matters. "I hope you'll heed what the Captain said and make good on that call, Ed."
Ed rolled his eyes. "What's with that voice, Colonel bastard?" Despite the promotion Roy had received, the kid had never called him 'General'. "We're not in the office."
Roy smiled. He had used his firm tone to keep it from being obvious that he wanted to cry but what was the problem? His son was going to be away from him. It was only natural that he was going to miss him.
Roy held out his hand to the boy and said in a soft voice that managed to keep him from breaking down in the middle of his words. "Take care of yourself Ed, it's going to be strange not having you around but you know we're here for whatever you need. All it takes is one phone call and believe me we'll be with you as soon as possible."
Ed smiled back as he took Roy's hand and gave it a squeeze. "Sure, thanks. Try not to slack off too much at work."
Without letting go of his father's hand, Ed turned both ways to keep an eye out to make sure no one was watching them and, seeing that the few people on the platform were busy loading their luggage or talking to station personnel, he stepped forward and wrapped Roy in a hug.
Although he was a few inches short of Roy's ear, Ed lifted his face slightly to be as close to the black-haired man's ear as possible so he could murmur to him in a very low voice. "You better take good care of Mom, or else you'll be dealing with me... Dad."
Roy was puzzled at the boy's action. Although recently Roy would ruffle his hair or they would bump fists during his stay at his apartment, they hadn't hugged like that since they had made peace at the hospital. It wasn't that Roy didn't want to but he sometimes feared forcing their relationship and, on this occasion, he hadn't been encouraged to hug the blond out of caution. However, as soon as he felt his son's arms, he returned the hug tightly, just loosening it a little as he opened his mouth slightly at the surprise of hearing him call him 'dad'. It was the first time he had ever done so.
Without giving him much time to process what had happened, Ed pulled away, keeping the smile on his face. "You're gonna get flies in that mouth, you bastard." The boy bent down to pick up his suitcase. "Well, I'd better get on." Directing a smile at both of them, Ed started running toward the train. After a few feet, he turned and waved his free hand. "See you on the weekend." Without waiting for a reply, he boarded the train bumping into Fuery, who was about to disembark the train.
Riza watched Ed with a smile until he disappeared from her sight. Still somewhat saddened by his departure, she sighed and turned to look at Roy. "General, you should heed what Edward told you."
Roy closed his mouth and shook his head slightly before replying. "True, Captain." He smiled sincerely as he enjoyed in his mind that his son had called him 'Dad'. "I hope this week flies by."
Riza nodded while maintaining her smile and, after making sure no one saw them, gave Roy's hand an affectionate squeeze. Even if it was brief, Roy quickly responded with a squeeze of his own before Riza pulled her hand away.