Flawless Desires

Roderich stumbled into his house, only to find Gilbert waiting there for him. "Roddy, what happened to you?" He asked with a tone of strong concern. "Who did this to you, was it your new partner? I'll kick his ass for you Roddy!"

Roderich gave his fattened, bloody lip a smile. "No, it was one of your rabid fangirls. If it weren't for Francis, I'm positive I would've been much worse."

Gilbert burst into laughter. "You got beaten up by a girl who wasn't Elizabeta?" It seemed that after approximately 30 seconds, he caught on to the second part "Francis? What were you doing with him?"

"He's my partner," Roderich explained. "For the music thing." He quickly added, to prevent any misunderstandings."

"Well, anyway, the awesome me has somewhere else to go!" He held himself up and exited. Roderich still didn't know why Gilbert kept up his over-confident act around Roderich. After all, the brunette was one of the few who knew about the German's insecurities.

''Roderich walked through the empty gardens of the University. Most of the other students had already left for the Spring Vacation, and, like always, Roderich was the last one to leave. To be honest, he found the barren hallways and dormrooms fascinating. The Austrian took pleasure in hearing the echoes of every single one of his footsteps. However, he heard something else... Sobbing.''

''"Worthless... My own brother doesn't even expect anything from me! Am I meant to be nothing?" A familiar voice choked out. Roderich slowly walked to the source.''

''He was right. Sitting on the fountain was a very pale man with extremely light silver-blonde hair and crimson eyes, which were not visible for his head was buried in his knees. The man crying near the fountain was none other than Gilbert Beilschmidt. For the first time, the Austrian felt affection for the seemingly-arrogant German. He sat down next to Gilbert and wrapped an arm around him.''

''"I don't think you're worthless..." Roderich whispered softly into his ear. "Quite the opposite actually, I believe you have so much hidden potential. and you just don't know what to do with it."''

''Gilbert slowly picked his head up. "What do you want, Roderich? Come to make fun of me? Go ahead." He spat.''

''Roderich gave a small smile. "Why would I do that? Because you have emotions?" He felt this odd feeling churn inside him. He acted impulsively, not even realizing what he was doing. All of a sudden, the Austrian's lips met Gilbert's and a whole new door in his mind burst open. This man, whom Roderich swore was his enemy, had his heart.''

That memory was engraved in his mind. It was the first time he had seen anything but arrogance from Gilbert. His train of thought was interrupted as the phone rang. "Hallo?" He answered.

"Hi Gilbert!" A familiar, peppy voice came from the other end. It was his cousin, Annaliese. "It's Annaliese, how is my love doing today?"

Her love is Gilbert? Roderich grinded his teeth. "So, why did you call the awesome me?" He said, trying to impersonate the German.

"What, a woman can't call her boyfriend?" The Austrian girl asked, flirtatious tones apparent in her voice. "Anyway, since you broke up with Roderich, I know you've been needing a place to stay. If he's kicked you out... Unless it's the other way around? Or are you two still living together?"

"I haven't managed to kick the prick out yet. Besides, where else would one of us go?" He asked.

"Well... I was thinking, since we've been together for quite a while, maybe you'd consider living with me?" She awkwardly proposed.

"How long has it been since Roderich and I split?"

"Ten months." Annaliese answered. "We've been dating for a year. You didn't tell ,e until you broke up with him, remember? Are you drunk, Gil? If so, hang up and call me back when you're sober. Until then, I love you." She hung up the phone, and left Roderich to sit alone in his anger.

"That lying, cheating, unfaithful bastard!" He shouted. "He's sleeping with my cousin!" You're in love with his best friend, an annoying voice in his head told him. That voice repeated over and over again getting louder and louder. "I'm no better... Maybe I shouldn't be so hasty... But he's cheated on me before! Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. Well, he's not getting me again!" Roderich stormed into their room and packed most of his stuff into his suitcase and stormed out of the house.

The Austrian didn't know where he was headed, and just went where his mind and heart led him. He wound up knocking on the door of a familiar French manor. A handsome blonde man with blue eyes opened the door.

"Roderich!" Francis smiled. "What are you doing here? Come in."

Roderich bowed and walked into the foyer. "He crossed the line. Annaliese called for him..." The Frenchman's lips formed into a pout as he grabbed Roderich and held him.

"It's okay," He whispered in his ear. "You can stay here, mon cher."

Roderich nodded, and kissed Francis lightly. When the two of them walked into the main room, he saw Antonio sitting on the couch. "Francis, who was at the door?" He looked at Roderich and his eyes narrowed. "It's you... Come to mess with another one of my friends? What, was Gilbert not enough?"

Roderich and Antonio didn't get along too well, and the Austrian was one of the few whom the Spaniard was bitter towards. "I came to Francis because your little friend Gilbert was sleeping with my cousin."

Antonio raised an eyebrow. "Have you ever considered the reason why Gilbert's always sleeping around is because you're not an adequate lover?" He turned to Francis and smiled cheerily. "I was wondering what I should --"

He was cut off because the Austrian lunged at him. "You little bastard!" He yelled, wanting to stranlge the green-eyed Spanish man. "Don't make this my fault!" Antonio shoved Roderich off of him and boxed him in the face. Francis winded up playing peacemaker and pulling Roderich away.

"Thank you, Francis," Antonio grinned. "Anyway, I should be going, adios~" He waved good-bye and left.

He found himself walking into the kitchen, observing what he had in stock. There were many baking supplies in the cabinets. He pulled out a few and decided to make a cake. The brunette reached into the fridge, pulled out eggs and milk and set them down on the marble counter. He was reaching for the flour when arms wrapped around his waist. Roderich tensed up at the touch before a warm breath tickled his ear.

"Don't worry, it's just me," Francis soothed him. "Anyway, would you care for a tour of the house? It's pretty big."

"Sure, I don't want to get lost wandering the halls." Roderich held out his hand. Just when Francis was about to grab it, the phone started to ring.

"It's Gilbert..." Francis sighed, and answered it. The blonde put the phone on speaker so both of them could hear what he was saying.

"Francis! You have to help me!" Gilbert sounded like a wreck. Loud sobs came through the phone. "Roderich's missing! I can't find him, he left no note or anything! Something may have happened to him... Do you know where he is? I already called Elizabeta and Ludwig and Feliciano and none of them have seen him!"

Francis cast a look over to Roderich, who violently shook his head. Francis sighed. "No, I haven't seen him. I'm sorry."

"Dear God, help me..." Gilbert muttered before ending the call.

Roderich stared down at the ground. "He's looking for me... I left without a word. I wanted to see if he'd care."

"And now that you know he does?" Francis raised an eyebrow as he spoke.

"It still changes nothing." Roderich told him and started to walk back into the living room. He noticed the picture of a girl with short hair and a daring look in her eyes.

"That's my Jeanne." Francis had a sad expressionon his face. "She's no longer with us..."

The Austrian wrapped his arms around the Frenchman. "I'm sorry, it must be terrible to lose someone you love. Is that how Gilbert feels?" Francis nodded. "I need to go to him, don't I?" Another nod and the two men walked to the foyer. Before they opened the door, Francis killed him into a passionate kiss, which the Austrian gladly returned.

Kissing Francis was much different than kissing Gilbert. With Francis, it was sweet and sensual, not ravenous and lust-filled. There was no fighting for dominance. It was harmonious and pleasureable. He wasn't sure how long they stayed in that state of bliss, but Roderich felt the oddest sense of paranoia. He pulled away from the blonde Frenchman and stared at the open door.

Gilbert was standing there, dark rings clearly visible under his crimson eyes. Roderich was almost positive he saw a glint of tears welling up inside of them.

"Gilbert..." Was all the Austrian could manage to spit out before the German turned and ran away.

"Are you going to chase after him?" Francis asked, letting go of the brunette's hand, as if the usually daring and bold Frenchman had suddenly become insecure.

"No," Roderich told him and grabbed his hand again. "In fact, I'd like that tour."

*Gilbert's POV*

''How could he just disappear? Where is he?'' Gilbert had been running around like a madman searching for his boyfriend. Usually when Roderich left the house he left a note saying where he had gone. The Austrian liked things calm and peaceful, tying up loose ends. Francis would help him look.

The German didn't bother knocking when he arrived at the large, French manor. He wasn't a very patient person and his mind was buzzing with tragic thoughts. Gilbert had found Roderich locked tightly in an embrace with Francis, kissing him rather passionately.

The sight made Gilbert feel almost too weak to stand. He felt blood rushing through him, although he was almost postive his heart had shriveled and blackened. Roderich had been his first, and only, love. Sure, he had had a few flings but he was mad for Roderich... Had Roderich found out? ''I am an unawesome bastard... No wonder Roderich cheated on me. An eye for an eye, I suppose...''

The brunette had eventually pulled away and his purple eyes opened wide. "Gilbert..." Roderich said. The German couldn't stand the sight of him anymore and just ran away from the house. Francis could have Roderich, he seemed happier.

He now walked through the city, kicking a few pieces of litter that crossed his path. Gilbert looked at a jewelers advertising their custom-made wedding and engagement rings. A pretty brunette merrily skipped out of the store.

"Gilbert!" Annaliese's eyes seemed to light up. "I made reservations to Vestibul at 7:30. I have a big announcement." She winked and hugged the blonde.

He was going to refuse, but the look in her violet eyes reminded him so much of Roderich. "Sure..." He mumbled. "The awesome me will see you then." His voice was quiet and in a flat, sad monotone.

"Are you okay, Gil?" She asked, wrapping her arm around him. "How about you stop at my place for a bit? I always keep your favourite beer handy." She gave him a small smile.

"I'm fine," Gilbert told her. "But, I guess having you in my presence won't hurt."

Annaliese's house made Gilbert feel so out-of-place. He was afraid to touch anything. Everything there was so fragile, so delicate and extremely expensive. The German was afraid that if he were to touch any one of the delicate trinkets, he would ruin and destroy it. Gilbert liked feeling comfortable where he was, and not being petrified of stepping in the wrong place.

"I'm going to go get ready in my room," Annaliese told him. "There's snacks on the platter in the kitchen. Don't get any ideas and think about coming in."

Gilbert very precociously walked to the kitchen and sure enough, there was a nice little platter of homemade snacks. The longer he was left alone, the more the German began to think of Roderich. He walked over to the fridge and pulled out a beer. He glared at the label that read "non-alcoholic". Of course it was... He opened the bottle and drank anyway, hoping it would help him forget his sorrows.

Gilbert looked at himself in the mirror. He was in no shape to go out, with his messy hair and shabby clothes. Annaliese ran out to the living room, where Gilbert's jaw seemed to drop open. She was dressed in an amazing violet gown, which only made her eyes seem like amethysts. The gown beautifully hugged her slim figure, then flowed out. Her dark chocolate hair was in a purposely-messy bun.

"Gilbert?" She smiled. "How do I look?"

"Amazing," Gilbert replied, his eyes still trailing over every feature of the girl. He realized that he looked so rugged in his dirty clothes. "I have nothing nice to change into..." He told her awkwardly.

"Nonsense!" Annaliese smiled. "I've one of your suits in your drawer." She started to walk to her room, before the Austrian briefly paused. "Well, are you coming? Or would you rather just get get undressed in my large windowed living room?"

Gilbert made a rude hand gesture, but eventually gave in. He walked into her room, which was exactly like the rest of her house. It was pristine, and quite delicate looking. One of his only suits was laid neatly on the bed. Annaliese's entire house seemed to be either red, white, black or violet. Every room had a colour or two and her room just happened to be a deep purple and white. Gilbert slipped off his normal clothes, earning a snicker from Annaliese.

"What's amusing you? I have an awesome body." He faced her, flexing his muscles. "Besides, you've seen it before."

"Little birdie undergarments. How classy, Gilbert." Annaliese raised an eyebrow and smirked.

"Shut up, I'm still awesome, okay?" Gilbert smirked while putting on his neat, black trousers. The German then slipped on the silky, white dress shirt, attempting to properly button it.

"Come here, you idiot," the brunette rose from her seat. She undid the improperly fastened buttons and observed his stomach, tracing her long, fragile fingers across a thin scar. Her violet eyes then became saddened, as if her mind was flashing back to a tragic memory. "I did that to you. I remember. I tore and flawed such perfect skin." She placed a soft kiss on his lips, leaving the feeling lingering there for a few seconds after she sheepishly pulled away.

"What's wrong Anna?" Gilbert asked, noticing her somber expression. "Come on, that was forever ago. I think it makes me look tougher." He cupped her face in his hands. "Of course, I won't tell anyone it was from a usually-prissy girl." He joked, but earned a slap from his lover.

"Anyway, we should get going, are you driving, or am I?" She answered her own question. "You drive there, I'll drive home. You might be a bit tipsy by the end of the night." She entered the car, and allowed Gilbert to drive away.

Vestibul was a nice place. No wonder Annaliese went through such lengths to get Gilbert to dress nicely. She elegantly walked into the restaurant. "Reservation under Edelstein."

"Which one?" The man asked, checking his paper. "There are two Edelsteins. I assume you're Annaliese, not Roderich?"

Gilbert's heart quickened. Roderich had arranged a date here as well. "Dammit... Just my luck," He murmured under his breath. "Excuse me, I just need to make a quick phone call."

The German walked outside and dialed Roderich's number. He counted two rings before an answer came from the other end.

"Hallo?" Roderich answered. Gilbert felt the oddest mixture of ecstasy, anger and regret when he heard the man's voice. "Gilbert?"

"I think you know I'm aware of your little affair with Francis," He said through clenched teeth.

"I assumed so, and I know about Matthew, and Annaliese. I know those were just the serious relationships, but how many little flings have you had, Gil? How many people were you with during me? Five? Ten?" The Austrian started yelling as he continued to speak.

"Anyway, I called to tell you that Annaliese and I made reservations at Vestibul tonight. You can't go." Gilbert asserted.

"What do you mean 'I can't go'? I made the reservations for Francis and I and we're going, whether you like it or not. You don't own me anymore, Gilbert. If it helps, I'll lie to my cousin and say that what you told her was true. Now, goodbye Gilbert." Roderich hung up the phone.

Gilbert sighed. At least Roderich wouldn't tell Annaliese about the lies he told. Dammit, Gilbert was a terrible person. Gilbert walked back to the table, Annaliese was telling something to the waiter who grinned and said something to her before hurrying off. Gilbert gestured to the man.

"What was that?"

"Nothing! He was just taking our orders for what we'd like to drink, Gil!~' she almost sang. She smiled brightly. "Anyway, Gilbert, there's-" sh broke off as the waiter came back with drinks.

"A beer for the gentleman, and an Iced tea for the lovely lady." Gilbert nodded his thanks at the man and waved him away.

"So, you wanted to tell the awesome me something, Anna?' he asked, gesturing her to go on as he picked up his beer.

"Yes, but I'd prefer it if you set down the beer so you will not spit it out after I've told you." Gilbert raised an eyebrow at that but did as she told him to.

"So, I accidentally murdered someone," She slowly said.

"What?!" Gilbert's red eyes grew wide with shock.

"Just kidding! I actually created a life, and you helped..." The Austrian said awkwardly.

"What are you trying to say?"

"So much for delicately dancing around the subject." Annaliese rolled her eyes. "I'm pregnant... with your child." She gave a small, nervous smile. "Surprise?"

Chapter Four
Gilbert felt like vomiting. A child? The German was practically a child himself, or at least, acted like one. "How far along are you?" He asked. Thinking back, she had seemed to gain a few pounds, but Gilbert just assumed she had decided to. After all, Annaliese was underweight.

"A month, give or take a few." She answered, staring down at her glass. She picked up her head and looked in the direction of the door. "Great, Roderich's here. I should probably say hi to him, I mean, it's been almost a year. I think he's gotten over it."

He was about to stop it, but remembered Roderich's words. Annaliese rose to her seat and smiled sweetly at her cousin. She beckoned to Gilbert, calling him over. "Is this your new boyfriend?" She turned to Francis. "Seems like our tastes are similar. Hello again, Francis. How have you been?"

"I've been fine, as for you, Liese?" Francis glanced to Gilbert, and for a brief second, a look of pity mixed with rage crossed his eyes, but it was gone before the German could be sure.

"Great! In fact, I just told Gilbert I'm pregnant!" she sang brightly, then she winced and glanced at Roderich. "I'm sorry, cousin but..." she trailed off, sounding upset. Roderich's eyes were flared, they looked like violet fire, but he shrugged.

"The past is the past, da?" but his glare told Gilbert he'd hear about this. He just wanted to die in a hole now. Francis grinned, putting up an act of joy.

"That's wonderful, Liese!" jokingly, he added, "You'll name the child after moi, oui?" Annaliese rolled her eyes but smiled, her face was bright. She thought they were all happy for them. "We should sit together, I mean, if Roderich and Gilbert won't kill each other.

"Nonsense, I know I'm mature enough to handle sitting with him. I'm sure Gilbert's capable as well, right?" He raised an eyebrow.

Gilbert noticed the indigo daggers that pierced him. "Of course, I mean, why wouldn't I be okay with it?"

"Brilliant!" She seemed to glance at the pocket of her jacket. "Francis, can I speak to you for a second?" He nodded and followed her.

"I have a ring in my jacket." She whispered. "Is it wrong for a woman to propose to her lover or should I take a feminist stand and do it?"

Francis sat for a moment in thought. "It's a hard question. Gilbert likes to do things his way, but it is the twenty-first century... Do whatever you feel is right."

"I'm going to propose to him," The Austrian woman nodded and patted her pocket. "I just need to find the right moment."

Annaliese and Francis walked back to the table, to find Roderich and Gilbert missing. "Where could these idiots have gone off to?" She said while rolling her plum eyes. "Excuse me, sir, can you tell me where the two men went? One was albino-looking and the other kind of looked like me, but more masculine..."

"Oh, those two," he groaned. "They were escorted out for being disruptive and what looks like trying to murder each other verbally."

"I am going to kill them..." she said through gritted teeth. "Francis, let's go."

The two found Roderich and Gilbert outside, still bickering. "I'm not the one who has fucked both of my best friends and my brother!"

"Excuse me? I never slept with Francis, or Ludwig!" The brunette yelled back. "And what about you? You knocked up my little cousin!"

Annaliese charged over there. "I can't talk to Francis for five minutes without you getting kicked out of one of the classiest restaurants in Vienna! I may as well be with a bunch of children!"

Gilbert sighed, and looked at Roderich. "What about Antonio?" He asked, causing him to glare while blushing furiously. "Guess that answers that question."

"Well, it was nice for a bit... I'll talk to you later, da?" Annaliese smiled, grabbed Gilbert's ear and dragged him away.

"Ow!" He yelled. "What the hell, Liese? That was so... unawesome of you!"

"How clever of you." The woman sneered.

"Annaliese, what's this in the box? It fell out of your pocket..." Gilbert held it in his hand, shaking it.

"Nothing's in there!" The Austrian replied, much too quickly.

Gilbert smirked. The German shook it once more, and opened it. His jaw dropped open as he took the ring out. It was beautiful, with 2 black gemstones and a white one in the middle. On the sides it had a few more jewels that were the colour of cornflowers. It perfectly described the albino, but did not distract him from the meaning.

"It wasn't supposed to happen like this..." Annaliese rubbed her temples. "I was going to propose to you. I thought it was appropriate with the baby on the way and I wanted to be a married family, but I was waiting for the right moment!"

"Are you saying you want to marry me?" Gilbert started to shake his head in disbelief.

"To put it simply, yes." She grabbed his hands. "Gilbert Beilschmidt, will you marry me?"

"No, I can't..." Gilbert turned away and ran.

*Roderich's POV

"That was a disaster..." Roderich groaned, overwhelmed with the events. "Just so you know, he started the whole argument in the restaurant."

"Did he now?" Francis folded his arms. "Please, elaborate."

"Well, once you left, he started talking about how he wasn't ready for a kid and suggested that Annaliese get an abortion," he started to explain, "However, I knew that this child was Annaliese's dream and I told him that it wasn't an option. He started to lose his mind saying that it wasn't my option. and that it was his. The obnoxious twit thinks the world revolves around him. I simply responded that it was Annaliese's decision, since she was the one who was carrying the child and that if he had stayed faithful this wouldn't had happened. Then things kind of exploded from there..."

Francis sat down on his couch and sighed. "Annaliese was going to propose to Gilbert..." He muttered. "I don't know how he's going to react."

"He's going to say no..." Roderich shook his head. "Why would he marry the girl whom he's lied to for over ten months and is carrying the child he doesn't want? I don't want him to hurt her. Annaliese was really one of the few people who always understood me. I love her more than almost everything."

"Ca va, mon amour..." Francis brought to Austrian into a light embrace, stroking his hair and kissing the top of his head. "Annaliese is a strong woman, and she can take anything." He gave a small smile, which Roderich returned.

"Ich dich liebe, Francis."

Chapter 5
Gilbert ran as fast as he could. His life was progressing much too fast for his liking. He needed someone who understood his situation. He took out his phone and dialed Antonio's number.

"Hola, Gilbert!" The Spaniard answered cheerily.

"I need some serious help," Gilbert admitted.

"Really? Well, come over as soon as possible! There's nothing I can't help with!" Antonio's voice had a determined and friendly tone to it.

"Danke... I'll see you soon," Gilbert said before hanging up. He started to travel to his friend's. It wasn't too long of a drive, but it gave the German time to think over the situation.

He arrived at the house and knocked on the door.

"Just a moment!" a little girl laughed, her voice bright. Gilbert felt himself smile. The voice had to belong to Antonio's daughter, Daniela. A few seconds later, Lovino swung open the door, laughing. Ever since he and Antonio were married, the Italian was a bit more joyful.

"Ciao, Gilbert," Lovino greeted him. "Antonio said you were coming." He peered through the door. "Good, you didn't bring your bastard of a brother. Anyway, come in."

Gilbert stepped inside, and was hugged tightly by Daniela. "Uncle Gilbert!" The little girl smiled widely. "Papi got me a new doll, wanna see it?"

"The doll isn't more awesome than what I got you for your birthday, is it?" Gilbert picked her up. "I'll play with you in a little bit, okay? I have to talk to Papi first." He set the green-eyed girl down. "Do you know where he is?"

"He's in the office," She answered. "And you promised to play, don't forget!" She giggled and ran back to Lovino.

The albino nodded and headed to the office. "Antonio? Are you in here?" Gilbert knocked on the door again.

The door opened, and Antonio stood there, eyes bright.

"Hola, amigo! What's the matter?" he asked as he gestured for him to come in and shut the door behind him. Gilbert inhaled and told him what happened.

"...And then I ran off. God, I don't... I can't even begin to describe..." Spain patted his shoulder softly.

"Well... Who do you love more? Roderich? Or Liese?" At Roderich's name, Antonio's eyes flamed a bit. Gilbert knew the two still weren't on the best of terms. Gilbert sighed.

"Honestly? Roderich... But I cannot leave Liese with the kid by herself, either." Gilbert gripped his forehead.

"But, Roderich has Francis, si?" Antonio responded. "Honestly, that man is more trouble than he's worth..."

"I know, but I really fucked up with him. I honestly do love him, but he seems so happy with Francis." Gilbert inhaled deeply. "The only reason I was with Annaliese was because Roderich was becoming more and more distant for the past year and she reminds me so much of him. Now I don't know what to do, and I'm so... Unsure of myself. I'm not used to that! I usually know what I want!"

Antonio wrapped his arm around his friend. "Well, do you honestly love Annaliese? Yes or no?"

Gilbert bit his lip and thought for quite some time. "No," the German finally said.

"Well, then don't marry her. Lovino realized he loved me enough to overcome the circumstances, I think you should do the same."

"Thanks, Tonio," Gilbert nodded.

"Gilbert! Before you leave, I have one more question. Do you think Roderich still loves you? One word."

"Yes." Gilbert answered almost immediately. "Now if you excuse me, I made a promise to play with a certain Daniela Munoz-Carriedo. I didn't really want to, but she has a certain charm to her. I can't say no to that face..."

*Roderich's POV*

Roderich plopped down on the couch, unsure of what to do. He was in love with Francis, he truly was, but everything seemed so awkward. Maybe it was the Austrian adjusting to his surroundings. There was a possibility that the Frenchman was being so precocious because Roderich was still trying to get over what happened with Gilbert.

"Francis?" Roderich peered into the room. "You're in here, right?"

"Oui, what is it?" Francis turned around, exposing his bare chest to the Austrian.

"Is it just me, or have things become... awkward? I mean, whatever you want to say or do, just do it." Roderich told the Frenchman, who gave a smile in return.

Francis softly placed his lips on the Austrian's, pulling him closer. "Je t'aime, Roderich." He caressed the brunette's cheek, his thumb accidentally brushing the beauty mark on his face for a split second. It caused a shudder from Roderich.

"D-d-don't touch that." He told the Frenchman. "It's a bit of a sensitive spot."

"Sorry, mon cher..." Francis whispered. "I honestly had no idea... Est ce que ca va?"

"Yes, just don't touch it again... Please." Roderich crashed his lips onto the Frenchman's again, and the kiss was gladly returned by the blonde.

Again, the sensation filled him. It was sensual, lovely, and completely took over him. It was the subtle taste of a fine red wine on his lips and the silky feeling of Francis' gorgeous, golden locks. Roderich didn't completely mind when Francis slipped off his sapphire coat, exposing his satin, white dress shirt. Roderich pulled away for a second, his mind catching up with the moment.

Roderich raised an eyebrow. "That's not what I meant," he pursed his lips, but couldn't help giving a small smile.

Francis chuckled. "I have a feeling that it was. The innuendo wasn't even trying to hide. But, if you insist that not what you meant, then put your jacket back on. I need to finish getting dressed."

Roderich picked up the long, blue coat that was tossed on the floor, slipped it on and refastened the golden buttons. "Idiot," he said under his breath, "Genius, yet a complete and total idiot."

Francis looked over his shoulder and smirked. "Heard that, amour." Roderich rolled his eyes, and yawned.

"What time is it, idiot?" The Austrian teased. He looked outside of the window and noticed the sky was pitch black.

The Frenchman looked at his watch. "Midnight," he answered. "Don't forget about our rehearsal tomorrow. Maybe you'll be a bit less uptight."

"Uptight? I am not uptight!" Roderich snapped. Francis gave him a quizzical expression and tenderly caressed his cheek.

"Ich dich liebe," Francis attempted to say, but the French accent seemed to make the German words impossible.

"Je t'aime aussi," the same principles applied to Roderich. The harsh feel of his Austrian accent made the soft, flowing language seem somewhat choppy. "It's the thought that counts though..." The brunette chuckled, kissing his lover.

The Austrian started to remove his day clothes and grabbed his outfit to sleep in. He unbuttoned his dress shirt and slipped it off, and felt a pair of arms snake around his waist. Warm breath tickled his neck and sent shivers up and down his spine. Roderich turned around and softly kissed the Frenchman. It was requited with joy. The once slightly-innocent kiss turned heated and passionate. Francis pulled away from his lips and moved down to his neck.

Roderich rolled over on the fluffy mattress and softly-- dreamily said. "Good morning, Gilbert." He opened one violet eye and saw the long honey blonde hair of Francis, the leveled breathing telling the brunette that he was still asleep.

"It was just a habit," Roderich shoved it off for now.

Chapter Six
Francis opened his blue eyes. "What's a habit, Roderich?" he asked. "Is something troubling you?" He cast a glance over at his love, still overjoyed by the fact that he was fortunate enough to be with the Austrian. Roderich was...flawless. His emotional, violaceous eyes were behind half-moon glasses. The brunette's hair had the slightest wave to it and one piece that always stuck up. His pale skin had a peculiar little beauty mark.

"Hmm?" Roderich faced the Frenchman. "Nothing's wrong."

"Are you hungry? I could make breakfast." Roderich nodded.

"I need to shower..." he muttered and grabbed the towel. "Can you make me some coffee, liebe? Just don't mess it up. People can never seem to get it right. I mean, it's a cup of coffee, not rocket science. But, I have faith in you."

Francis rolled his blue eyes. He walked to the kitchen and started to gather the ingredients. The Frenchman heard the sound of running water, signaling that Roderich had gotten into the shower. Soon after, a beautiful singing came from the bathroom. The Austrian had such a lovely voice. ''Why waste time on piano and violin? His voice is the most beautiful voice I've heard in a long time,'' Francis would often think to himself.

"I'd shape up and put on weight, set up a calendar marked to the date where we'd meet on a mystic veranda to dance. I'd show you skills I'd not forgotten. I'd spoil you rotten. So don't be afraid for better or worse. Let's dive head first; we can think about this later when we're not so jaded. So jaded." Roderich's lovely tenor filled the house. "I can't go on the way I've gone forever. A new endeavor is oh so needed and feelings scare you. You never look me in the eye Don't ever change I just want you to know the complacency's always been staged. I was blinded until you opened up my eyes. I've always believed in you, wanna be more than that tonight."

Francis hummed the tune as he finished cooking. The blonde decided to start making Roderich's coffee, being very delicate with the process. The brunette was a perfectionist, especially when it came to coffee. It could annoy other, but to Francis, Roderich was worth it. It was about twenty minutes until the Austrian came downstairs.

"Here you go, nice, hot cup of coffee." He offered warmly. The Austrian was going to love it. After all, Francis had done everything he had liked. It took a good ten minutes, but he followed all procedures.

Roderich stared down into the cup and delicately took a small sip. "It's cold." the brunette told him and looked down at the coffee in the mug.

''Hmmph! It was only cold because he took so long!'' Francis reassured himself, He kept on a smile. "Nice cup of coffee."

Roderich raised an eyebrow. Slowly and cautiously, he drank from the ceramic mug again. The brunette made a face of disgust. "It's horrible."

Francis' smile now became sarcastic and sickly sweet. How could Roderich insult his coffee?! He had followed every single procedure perfectly. "Cup of coffee," he said through gritted teeth.

Roderich now gave the mug a death glare. He took another sip, as if to assess it once more and gagged slightly. "I'm not even sure if it's coffee."

Francis' smile had been wiped off and was replaced with a scowl. "Cup." he spat. The blonde tried not to lose his temper...

"What kind is it anyway?" the Austrian asked, dumping the coffee down the drain and placing his mug into the sink.

"It's French vanilla of course," he answered. "What else would I use?"

"Oh, that explains it. Gilbert always used Black Coffee. I suppose I've grown accustomed to the grays and blacks of it, that I don't care for other kinds of coffee." Roderich noticed Francis clenched his jaw at Gilbert's name.

"What's the matter?" Roderich asked

"Nothing." the Frenchman spat, blue eyes chips of annoyance.

"Bull. Francis, what's the matter?"

"Nothing's the matter. I have to go do some stuff." his voice was cold, and he briskly turned away.

"Why are you so angry at me?" Roderich pursued. "I am not angry at you, amour," Francis spoke, turning around. "Just at Gilbert. Antonio and I both grew up, he didn't. He fooled around and knocked up your baby cousin. I suppose disappointed is a better word for it." Roderich was about to reply when there was a banging on the door.

"Roddy? Roderich? Are you there? It's me... It's Gilbert! Please, give me five minutes, I have to talk to you!" The German begged, his accent thicker than normal, so it had to be important.

"Speak of the Devil, and the Devil shall appear, non? Go see what he needs, amour." Francis spoke softly and warmly, although there was a hint of bitterness laced in his voice.

"Don't you want to come as well, Francis?" Roderich besought.

"All is fair and love and war, and I expect you to fight your own battles." the blonde told him before walking away.

Roderich sighed and opened the door, only to have Gilbert take his arm and drag him out of the house. The albino smiled and placed his lips on Roderich's, only to be shoved away a few seconds later. "What the hell are you doing? I mean, there's no alcohol scent on you, so you're sober.. What are you doing?"

"Wow... Okay, I did NOT think that through... Okay, let me try again. I wanted to apologize, for everything. For cheating on you with your cousin." (And Matthew and God knows how many others, Roderich added) "I want to apologize because I know i'm not the easiest person to deal with and I know I'm an ass and I want to apologize for everything I made you put up with. I don't know how much you gave up for me, but given your expression, I am positive it's a lot. And I know these won't begin to cover it, but here." he said, hurried thrusting into his hands a dozen Edelweiss flowers, going in a circle in the middle of them were six perfect Irises, and sitting in the center was a disheveled Cornflower. The flowers were wrapped in a perfect bit of violet silk, tied with a ruby red ribbon. The German then mumbled something Roderich couldn't catch.

"What? Speak up, I didn't hear you."

"I...I said I told Liese 'no' and that the reason why was because..." he paused. "The not-so-awesome me is still in love with you." he said rapidly.

Roderich thought of his dream, and what happened this morning. "Really? Since we're both confessing things now, I have something I need to tell you too. This morning, when I woke up, I greeted you instead of Francis. And you've been in my dreams. I shoved it off as a force of habit, but it's been bugging me."

Gilbert gave a soft and small smile. "Is it possible to love two people at once?" he asked before walking back up the stone path. "I have to go, ich dich liebe."

Roderich waved goodbye. "Ich dich liebe auch," he murmured too low for the German to hear. "Francis!" the Austrian yelled out the door. "I choose Francis. He's always been faithful. To anyone he was with!"

Gilbert gave him yet another questioning look, but walked away. "Ich dich liebe." Roderich murmured again and reentered his house, a pang of regret hitting him.

Chapter Seven
"Play it again, Roderich!" Francis smiled. "And sing louder this time! You have such a beautiful voice, after all." He leaned on the piano and smiled sweetly.

The Austrian blushed faintly at the blonde's comment. "I do not. Honestly, I'm more of a pianist than anything. I'm definitely not a singer."

"Please?" Francis pouted. "For me?" Roderich shook his head, causing the Frenchman to pull him off of the piano bench. "If you won't sing, then dance with me." he grinned, wrapping an arm around Roderich's waist.

"I'd rather sing," the Austrian wriggled himself out of the grasp. "I'm not a dancer. There are too many delicate movements and swaying. I've never really liked it or done it willingly, not even during the Viennese winter."

"Speaking of which, I'd love to attend the ball with you." Francis grabbed his hand again. In Vienna, every winter, there would always be an extravagant ball. It reflected the luxurious lifestyle of the Austrian people. Fluffy, white snow covered the streets of the city. Icicles hung from the rooftops of every building, glistening like crystals in the cold sun. The winter wonderland was a sight to see if you could stand the low temperatures.

"What would make you think I'd go? Or take anyone?" Roderich asked, even though the answer was apparent. He always went; it was tradition for him. It would easily become tradition for Francis too. The temperatures were dropping rapidly and snowfall wasn't too far away.

Francis grabbed his arm and smiled, pulling the Austrian into the perfect dance position. "I assume you'd want music?" he walked over and placed a small music player on a speaker. A comforting, beautiful guitar melody played as the Frenchman replaced his arms around Roderich. They swayed gently, back and forth softly. The brunette placed his head on the other's shoulder and savored the moment. Francis hummed the tune, and started to sing softly.

"On me dit que nos vies ne valent pas grand-chose. Elles passent en un instant comme fanent les roses. On me dit que le temps qui glisse est un salaud" Francis sang and twirled Roderich. "Que de nos chagrins il s'en fait des manteaux. Pourtant quelqu'un m'a dit... Que tu m'aimais encore. C'est quelqu'un qui m'a dit que tu m'aimais encore. Serait-ce possible alors?" he now dipped the Austrian, causing a smile to rise from Roderich. The two swayed again, in a gentle rocking position as Francis kept on singing.

"On me dit que le destin se moque bien de nous. Qu'il ne nous donne rien et qu'il nous promet tout. Paraît que le bonheur est à portée de main. Alors on tend la main et on se retrouve fou. Pourtant quelqu'un m'a dit..." the notes filled the room as they continued to dance. Roderich rested his head gently on Francis' shoulder, breathing in the soft scent of roses that was carried in his soft, golden locks. The dance was pure bliss, even though it wasn't intricate. It wasn't really a dance as much as it was a rhythmic sway. The song had come to a sweet and gentle stop, as had the Frenchman's singing. Roderich looked into Francis' warm, blue eyes and smiled, bringing the blonde's lips closer to his own. He savoured the faint taste of a fine red wine that was there whenever he kissed the Frenchman.

"Francis," Roderich spoke quietly. "I, for once was kind of glad to be wrong. For once though, considering I'm usually right."

Francis merely smiled and gave a small chuckle. "But, when you're wrong, good things always seem to happen, amour. I wish you'd be wrong more often, that dance was lovely. Je t'aime."

"Ich dich liebe auch," Roderich replied, returning to the embrace. It was pleasurable, and the Austrian felt like he could stay in the scene forever. He may just as well had, if it hadn't been for the rapid knocking on the door.

The door opened up to Annaliese, who looked like a wreck. Her usually neat, dark brown hair was messy and disheveled. It appeared that she took none of the usual care that she normally did in her appearance. For the first time, Roderich could see her slightly extended waistline. Her face was red and puffy and her glasses were askew. His cousin wrapped her arms around Roderich and started to cry a bit.

"Liese," Francis had noticed the scene being made. "What's wrong, cherie?" the Frenchman walked over to his friend and directed her towards the couch.

"I took a feminist stand and proposed to Gilbert." Annaliese twiddled her thumbs and mumbled something almost inaudible. "And he said no..."

Her attempt to not be heard nor understood was futile, for Francis caught on to every word. "Liese! I'm so sorry to hear that... How are you feeling? I mean to say, you have the child to care for and you seem to be in a bad state."

Annaliese was known to lie in order to save her pride, but she wouldn't lie to Francis, not now anyway. "To be honest, Francis, I'm scared. I'm terrified of what's going to happen. I love Gilbert and I can't handle everything that's being thrown at me!"

Francis sighed, grabbed her hand and led her out into the kitchen. "Come, I'll make you some coffee..."

"Be warned, he's terrible at it!" Roderich teased. Once he was positive they had left, he took out his phone and pressed '1'. It rang thrice before he heard a thick, German accent come from the other end.

"Roderich? Why are you calling again? I thought everything was settled. You're coming to pick up your stuff on Tuesday and then it's a fond fair well. I'll be out of your life for good, just like you've always wanted." his voice cracked at the end.

Roderich was about to respond to what the German said, but more important matters needed to be discussed. "You seemed to leave something at my house. Around 5'7", brown hair, female, crying because you seem to have the consideration and emotional range of a teaspoon. Did you not take Annaliese's feelings into account or were you too involved in the world that revolves around Gilbert?"

"Come on, Specs!" Gilbert yelled. "Have some faith in me! I just didn't wanna marry her, I didn't say I was going to leave her alone without some support, I mean, I do want to raise my son or daughter, make sure they don't grow up to be weak neat-freaks like you and Liese. I'll help her, I'm not a complete douche. Give me some credit. Gosh."

"Well, as long as you're not leaving the poor girl to raise your child on her own. But, she's heartbroken..." Roderich cast a glance over at Annaliese, her tiny, delicate hands wrapped tightly-- practically clinging-- to the white, porcelain mug and she sipped the coffee.

"Ugh, Francis! This is terrible," she placed it neatly on the table, before looking down at the ground. "What is Gil saying?" she asked, her voice was quiet and meek as if she was ashamed of herself as well as Gilbert. "Roderich, let me speak to him."

Roderich shook his head, knowing it wasn't the best of ideas. Annaliese was rather unstable, and Gilbert couldn't be trusted to tell the truth. "Honestly, Liese, it's not a good idea. I mean to say, you're a little sensitive at the moment..."

A few seconds later there was a quick movement of the hand which left Roderich's face stinging. "Now, Roderich, I can assure you that I am a mature woman capable of holding a conversation and letting people explain themselves. Now, hand me the phone."

Roderich sighed and gave up with arguing. Reluctantly, he gave his cousin the phone. "But, please, talk in the guest room on the third floor, I don't need to hear you yelling, nor do I assume you wish for me to know all of the private details of your relationship."

Annaliese looked at him, her eyes violet daggers as she scoffed and quickly snatched the phone from his hands. Roderich stayed silent and heard her pounding footsteps as she stormed up the staircase. Although it was quiet and indecipherable, he could hear Annaliese's yelling from two stories below. He sighed heavily and slowly walked into his bedroom, unsure about whether he wished to sleep.

"Ca va, mon amour?" Francis wrapped his arms around Roderich's waist and settled his head into the crook of his neck. The Frenchman's soft, blonde hair hung on Roderich's shoulder and tickled him slightly as it brushed against his chin while Francis readjusted his position.

“Be honest, Francis,” Roderich’s violet eyes were dark, troublesome. “Do you think Annaliese will be okay?”

Francis’ lips formed into a small frown, and the wrinkles in his forehead proved his point without any words spoken. “I’m sorry, amour, I am, but sometimes the wounds that hurt the most come from words rather than actions. Her entire life has made a complete turn in a matter of weeks. It takes time, and will she be okay? I don’t know...”

The Austrian sighed, and plopped down on the fluffy, neatly-made bed. He stood up for a second to remove the blue coat and toss it onto the floor, before crashing back onto the mattress with the same over-exhausted, defeated and hopeless look in the beautifully tragic eyes. Francis smiled. One could hardly call it a smile, for it was more like a bittersweet, miniscule upturning of pink lips. The Frenchman, smiling his pathetic, little sad smile, placed Roderich’s head in his lap and started to run his long fingers through the slightly-way, dark chocolate hair of his lover and sang a soothing little ballad.

“J'ai demandé à la lune... Et le soleil ne le sait pas... Je lui ai montré mes brûlures... Et la lune s'est moquée de moi,” his voice was a river, smooth and flowing in some parts, yet in others it was unstable.

“Francis, I had a horrible nightmare last night,” Roderich admitted. “It was awful, you had to watch me die in your arms, due to a foolish mistake. I mean, I’m not afraid of death, it’s the same thing as being afraid of life. But, to have you watch me die, why, that would be insufferable. And I was stuck watching you pine away until it became unbearable and you took your own life. But, I guess it has to happen eventually, death...”

Francis hushed the brunette, and kissed his ear so softly that even the Reaper himself would stop to swoon. Roderich turned around and focused Francis’ lips on his own. It was a distraction, clearing his mind with nothing but the pleasant sensation. The taste of an aged, fine wine clung to his lips, the scent of roses and vanilla was given off from him, and the feeling of love crept up the other’s spine as the kiss remained unbroken. Lips parted, and the embrace deepened, as arms entwined. “Roderich, I promise you, you don’t need to worry about death anytime soon, amour.”

The Austrian merely looked at his partner and nodded, not daring to open his mouth. Francis couldn’t stand silence, especially not from one with as beautiful a voice as Roderich. How he begged to hear that gorgeous voice, even if it meant he had to succumb to the pessimistic darkness that he seemed to omit. The Frenchman just had a desire to hear the flawless voice, whether it be a mere whisper or a loud scream, he needed to hear the sound of Roderich’s lovely intonation. The slightly high-pitched voice that oddly flowed even with an Austrian accent.

“Do me a favour, amour,” the blonde smirked. “Speak for me. Just say something, or sing. Let me hear you.” Roderich only smirked in return, before shaking his head, and inching closer to him. He teasingly brushed his lips against the Frenchman’s and pulled away, leaving a tingling sensation for a few seconds afterwards. The temptation was too strong, and Francis kissed him desperately, needing a reassurance and something to hold on to.

Silken, cloth barriers were discarded oh-so easily, for Roderich was darkness, and Francis was darkness and nothing but blackness and a love so desperate, yet soft filled the air. It was an indulgence, nothing but a distraction away from problems they were faced with too suddenly. It was hardly able to be called love, when all they felt was a need for each other’s perfection. How could it be described as passion when all it was was a flawless desire?

Too many kisses and warm embraces to count were placed, each one in a different manner or a different place. Roderich’s silence was broken in a whisper, which progressively grew louder. Just one of the soft caresses were enough to stop death.

''"Hey, specs!" Gilbert wrapped his hands around Roderich's. "I've got something to show you! Come quickly!"''

''"No, not until you learn my name. Say it with me now, Roderich. R-o-d-e-r-i-c-h." he shook the German off, and fought a smile that was creeping up on him.''

''"Nah, Specs is more fun! Or Roddy, I'm a nice person, so I'll let you pick, alright?" he grinned, and playfully punched his arm.''

"How about Roderich? Considering that's my name."

''"But that's boring! Anyway, are you going to follow me or not?" Gilbert folded his arms and raised a single eyebrow. Roderich tried to study the expression in his eyes and was caught by surprise as he noticed a trace of sadness in the crimson orbs.''

''"Gilbert, are you okay?" the Austrian asked nervously. Maybe Gilbert had always had this sadness, and Roderich had never noticed. After all, he only saw the blonde as a nuisance, or a temporary plaything. He never looked deep into him, not really. After all, Gilbert seemed so shallow and superficial, and why should he look so deep into someone who barely managed to recognize a person's top layer. He thought again, and shook his head. How stupid could he have possibly been. He was no better than how he viewed Gilbert. He lost himself in thought.''

''"Roderich, the better question would be if you're okay. You look pretty worried," he grabbed the brunette's hand and grinned. God dammit, I can't even realise I'm a hypocrite, how intelligent of me, Roderich said to himself.''

''"I'm fine. Do you mind telling me where we're going? Whatever it is, it seems to be causing you quite a bit of strife. Is the great Gilbert Beilschmidt afraid?" Roderich only then realised Gilbert had called him by his preferred name. "You... you called me Roderich."''

''"Well, that's your name, isn't it? I fucked that up once, don't want to do it again. Elizabeta hates me for it... And we should be here soon..." his eyes seemed to get more and more watery and face face more etched with pain as he walked, as if every single step he took was torture to him.''

''"All we've done is walk up and down a hill, and that's all I see here," Roderich pointed out. "Are you taking me to a hill?"''

"The hills are alive with the sound of--"

"No," the Austrian cut him off.

''"Anyway, what I want to show you is at the top of this hill," he said as they kept climbing. "Do you see that cross? I need to show you what it is..."''

''Roderich moved some of the dark brown hair that fell in his violet eyes and turned to face the German. "Are you sure you're alright?" he inquired. "You seem so... out of it. It's worrying me. I'm used to seeing an obnoxious, cocky bastard but you look so dejected. What's wrong?"''

''"See here?" they now stood at the top of the hill. "This cross is where my little brother is supposed to be buried."''

''"Pardon me if I seem insensitive, but supposed to be?" Roderich cocked his head in confusion. He had a feeling he already knew the answer.''

''"They... they never found the body. I mean, I've got Ludwig now, but I wonder what happened to him..." Gilbert's voice was low and shaky. He'd never seen anyone, especially not the great Gilbert Beilschmidt, so weak and broken.''

''Roderich stared blankly for a few seconds and stayed silent, for he had no idea how to respond. The only thing he could do was wrap his arms around the albino in a warm embrace and hope the warm hold would soothe him. Gilbert looked up at him and smiled. It was such an odd expression though; not happy, nor sad. If anything, it was grateful, as if the German was so pleased to have a friend there to comfort him.''

Roderich woke up slowly. He felt fingers gently running through his chocolate hair. He yawned quietly. "Good morning, Gilbert. How'd you sleep, liebe?" He rolled over and saw Francis, not Gilbert.

The loving look in the Frenchman's blue eyes instantly turned cold.

"Confused?" he spat, sitting up harshly and getting out of bed. Roderich felt his heart stop. Francis turned his back on his, body rigid and cold. He was furious.

"I-It's a habit! Franics, I swear!" he cried, voice shaking. He felt his eyes already welling with tears. Stupid, stupid stupid stupid stupid stupid, he thought.

"You're not," Francis said suddenly, grabbing his wrist. Roderich was aware of a pain on his forehead.

"W-what?" he hiccuped, his face felt wet. His heart felt shatterted; he knew Francis would normally be wiping the tears off.

Francis sighed, "You were beating your fist to your forehead, muttering 'stupid' over and over."

Roderich sighed, and got up. "I'm sorry... It's just a damn habit." Francis shrugged.

"Look... Perhaps... You still love mon ami?"

"No! I don't!" At least, I don't think so... he thought. Francis looked on in disbelief, but shrugged. The blonde threw a white robe over himself before slamming the door. "Wait, where are you going?"

"I am going to bathe and by the time I get out I want your stuff packed and out of my house!" his voice was strained as he yelled. The harsh tone failed to mask suppressed tears. You could hear his voice crack at the end. "I knew it, Roderich..."

"Francis..." the Austrian wanted to grab his hand and pull him closer. He wanted to pour every thought that flooded his mind into the Frenchman's. But he couldn't, and neither could the other. Words would be too painful, and a look would kill them both.

He soon heard the sound of running water, and a soft, sad melody being sung. The lyrics were French,but you could tell that it was a song of wanting and despair, a song of mourning and broken dreams. He traced his fingers along the sheets before sighing and making the bed. Packing shouldn't take long... he told himself as he emptied three drawers of neatly folded and sorted clothes. He grabbed a random set and threw them on, not caring enough to put in the usual amount of effort that he normally did.

After placing them into his suitcase, he took one look around the house, before crumpling onto the floor and sobbing. ''No, you're going to get up and walk outside. You caused this, and saw this coming. You've no right to be upset.'' The brunette rose, dusted himself off and headed out the door.

Yet, for some odd reason, whether it be heartbreak or denial, Roderich couldn't find himself to be capable of leaving the porch. So, he just sat on the bench, hunched over so that his nose almost brushed against his thighs, and sang a such a melancholy melody in a tone so soft and hurt, like a wounded songbird, desperate for someone to help it so it wouldn't waste away on the grass in which it fell.

His phone rang out, filling him with a peculiar joy, a false hope that perhaps it was someone, offering him an apology, or an offer to remove his mistakes. Maybe it was a forthcoming of reality, and this has just been a horridly vivid nightmare. He looked at it and the fleck of hope disappeared and crushed him with a heavy burden of misery as Gilbert's name showed up. Yet, he answered, masking any and all emotions he felt towards the man who haunted his dreams; the man who ruined him by making him fall so desperately in love with the wrong person. Yet, he fell and had never picked himself back up.

"What is it now, Gilbert?" Roderich snapped, his tone was far too harsh and brutal than intended. He was not a big fan of using strong words and threatening tones in order to get his point across, so the bitterness took both of the men by unpleasant surprise.

Chapter Eight
"I-" he said, sounding shocked and distracted, "I had just wanted to tell you the babies are boys. Liese and I agreed to name them-"

"Wait, plural?" he said, shocked.

"Yes, Specs. Babies. Twins. Anyway, we've not decided any names yet... She doesn't like the idea of one of them being named 'Stormageddon: Dark Lord of All'. I don't know why... (Roderich chuckled to himself and rolled his violet eyes) Could you ask Frenchie if he wants to godfather one? You can godfather the other if you'd like,"

Before Roderich could reply, he heard his (ex?)boyfriend's  voice, full of cold, raw anger and regret. "I thought I told you to leave?" Roderich put the call on hold.

"You said to leave the house. Last time I checked, I'm not in the house. Anyway, Gilbert wants me to inform you the twins are both boys. He also wanted to know if you'd godfather one of them, and I'd godfather the other one. You can have Stormageddon," he tried to joke, and saw a flash of humour in Francis' blue eyes, one that he had wanted to savour, for he knew such looks would be so rare for him to see. If he could manage to get a smile, it would brighten his world.