Title: Promise
Author: Kristen Sharpe
Date: October 3, 2023
Rating: G
Warnings: None
Genre/Continuity: Mangaverse.
Disclaimer: "Fullmetal Alchemist" belongs to Hiromu Arakawa, Square ENIX, Studio BONES and various other parties.
Dry, orange leaves crackled underfoot as they walked down the lane from the Rockbell home. A complement to the brisk air carrying the tang of woodsmoke. Along with more delicate wafts of apple cinnamon escaping the picnic basket hanging from Winry's arm.
"Just one little taste. Please?" Ed wheedled, sneaking a hand toward the basket.
Winry slapped it. "No, this is for everyone."
"But, Winry, we're hungry." Al grinned as he feinted a grab from her other side.
"Honestly, you two!"
She was smiling too. Because she didn't mind. Not really. They were home and whole yet again.
They had come in on the first train of the day, just in time for Resembool's annual harvest dinner and dance. They were always here and gone, pursuing this or that research. And, always back by the first of October.
It was like a promise. One Winry treasured anew every year.