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lynx212Title: Underneath It All
Chapter 15: Skipping a Beat: Part One of Two
Genres: Angst/Romance
Rating: T
Pairing: Roy/Ed, Jean/Ed
Total Word Count: 11,911
Warnings: Some language and sexual references
Spoilers: Possible movie spoilers
A/N: Ok my ever so patient fans, old and new, of this fic. I have not abandoned it. *hugs on you for not giving up on me* No beta on this on so all typo's are all on me. Sorry it took me forever but I'll shut up now... on with the fic!
Skipping a beat
When Roy opened his door the last thing he expected was to see was a soaked and distraught looking Edward but there he was all the same. Shaking off his shock Roy stepped aside and let the man in. Ed stood in his entryway, teeth chattering, hair plastered to his face and shivering. Roy couldn’t think of anything that could have possibly happened to prompt the current situation. The one thing he did know was Ed looked absolutely miserable and he didn’t like that fact one damn bit.
Roy was about to ask him what happened when Ed blurted out, “I screwed up.”
“I’m sure whatever it is that happened between you and Alphonse is not as bad as…”
“Not with Al, with Jean.”
Well that declaration got Roy’s attention. He had been certain whatever it was, was between the Elric brothers.
“You need to get that wet clothing off. Follow me, and I’ll go find you a towel and something dry to put on.”
Once they reached Roy’s bedroom Roy gave Ed a towel and some new clothing to put on. As soon as Ed stepped into the man’s bathroom he peeled out of his shirt and began scrubbing at his wet hair with the towel. Once he got the dry shirt on he realized his pants were a lost cause as well. Hooking his thumbs in the waistband Ed angrily shoved them off as if they were the cause of his current dilemma. Tossing his wet clothing over the shower rod he pulled on Roy’s jogging pants, flung the door open and marched out into the hall.
Roy was seated in his favorite chair in the living room when Ed finally came tromping back down the steps. He looked furious. In Roy’s eyes his blonde companion was a perfect mix of sexy, cute and pissed as he came stomping down the staircase wearing Roy’s shirt, too long pants and a scowl. He flopped down in the chair across from Roy and angrily shoved some of the wet strands plastered to his forehead to the side and sighed.
“Care to tell me what happened?” Roy said as he filled two glasses with wine.
“That’s the whole thing; I can’t because I don’t have the slightest clue,” Ed grumbled as he took the offered glass from Roy’s hand and downed it all in one go before holding it out to be refilled.
Roy gave him a puzzled look as Ed sat there scowling. Ed recounted what had happened between him and Jean all while staring up at the ceiling. When Roy didn’t immediately chime in with something Ed added, “You know what really gets me, besides the fact the entire exchange made zero sense?”
“What Edo?”
“The last two things he said, because you can't make me into something I'm not, and when I asked what that was supposed to mean and told him I was confused. His response of, I know you are and that hurts more than you could ever know, made my stomach knot. Even without knowing what the hell he meant everything in me thinks that phrase is bad news. So if you have any idea what that was all about please clue me in because I’m so lost I feel like I’m drowning.”
Roy didn’t know what to tell Ed because he couldn’t make sense of the situation himself. The one thing Roy did pick up was that Jean was apparently upset Ed hadn’t come to see him once he got back into town and that Ed had missed his thinly veiled sarcasm. When Roy mentioned this, Ed’s brows furrowed before he asked, “But I stopped by his house twice today after we got back into town and he wasn’t home.”
“Did you tell him that?”
“No,” Ed sighed.
“I suppose that would be a good place to start whenever you see him again. Other than that I’m not sure what advice to give other than trying to get him to talk to you.”
“But why be mad at me over something like that? What difference would it have made if I had been exhausted from the trip and just getting up from a nap when he stopped by?”
“Relationships and emotions are funny things Edo, they don’t always follow logic.”
“So I see. I just don’t think me strolling over there and asking to talk is going to pan out any differently than it did in my front yard,” Ed said as he looked off to the side.
Blonde hair darkened to the shade of fresh honey by the rain clung to the side of Ed’s face. Roy could tell that Ed’s teeth were clenched and more than anything he wanted to run his fingers across that perfect jaw line and watch that tension melt away. Anymore, Ed didn’t look right wearing a scowl even though it was something he’d worn more often than not when they first met. Yes, the overly driven man-child that was Edward Elric had evolved to become an almost entirely different being.
A mellow, carefree, even if somewhat confused, happy being that no longer looked right when upset. At least he didn’t to Roy. In Roy’s world, an upset Ed should not exist. This meant that despite the fact it was going to kill off something in his soul to do so, Roy was going to do what he could to help Ed patch things up with Jean.
Steeling his nerves Roy said, “Well there are other ways to communicate.”
When puzzled golden eyes narrowed at him Roy ignored the high pitched screaming of his spirit and said, “Body language, Edo. I’m sure with the right smile, the right look and the right caress… the right words won’t matter.”
Ed’s face turned five shades of crimson but he swallowed hard and asked, “You think so?”
“I know so,” Roy replied and the words surely shaved five years off his life.
“Humph, easy for you to say, Oh Legendary Lover Boy of Central, but me, I’m still new at all of this stuff and to be honest I… I’m not even sure if I’m any good at it.”
“Has…” Roy faltered, took a large drink of wine and thought a bottle of the stuff would not be enough to get him through this conversation, “has he had any complaints before?”
“No but I know… well I just know I could be better at some things.”
“I’m sure your insecurities are unfounded, Edo.”
“I could prove it to you but I wouldn’t want to scar you for life.”
If this kept up Roy may die this very evening. You could only shave so many years off a man’s existence before the reaper immediately came looking for him. “You are worrying over nothing.”
Ed snorted and said, “You say this now but you’ve never been on the receiving end of the mockery I make a blow job into. Trust me, it could probably scar you for life.”
Dead, that’s what Roy was going to be. The imagery that simple phrase alone sparked in Roy’s mind was going to be his undoing. It amazed Roy what a little bit of red wine did for Ed and his hang-ups. That shy person that avoided talk of intimate things took a back seat to this sensually sarcastic creature that didn’t bite his tongue.
Polishing off what wine remained in his glass, Roy swallowed hard and replied, “Practice makes perfect and there’s no better time than the present to go for it.”
“You think so?”
“Absolutely,” Roy replied.
Hopping to his feet Ed shouted, “Fuck it! I’m going for it then. I don’t idle well anyway and I hate inaction, to me that’s worse than the problem.”
Roy stood up as well and when Ed marched toward the steps Roy sighed and resisted the urge to beat his head against the nearest wall. There was one lone flickering ember left alight in his soul and it was sure to die off due to his next action. Walking into the kitchen Roy went down into the basement then into his wine cellar. Selecting a well aged red wine he grabbed it off the shelf and swore under his breath. He didn’t know what felt worse, helping Ed into the arms of another or how selfish he felt for not really wanting to do it because he desired Ed for himself.
Cursing one more time he climbed the steps and was surprised to find a redressed Ed standing in the kitchen. Still damp clothing clinging to him like a second skin he had his hands shoved in his pockets as he rocked back and forth on his heels.
“You ok Roy? What had you swearing down there?”
“Stubbed my toe, nothing to worry about Edo,” Roy lied as he handed Ed the bottle.
“What’s this for?”
“Everything’s better with wine.”
Ed smiled at him and said, “Thanks Roy,” before leaning forward and giving Roy a brief hug. “I don’t know what I would have done these past two weeks without you.”
“What are friends for Edo, what are friends for.”
Those nine words extinguished the flicker.
+++
Ed wasn’t one to interfere in his brother’s life but as the week trudged on he knew he had to say something. As a band, they couldn’t skip out on Fidel with such short notice. They’d made a commitment and they had to stick with it. That’s why when Wednesday night rolled around Ed was at home cooking a dinner of fried chicken and mashed potatoes for him and his brother instead of over at Jean’s. If anyone could use a plate of comfort food it was his brother. Al eventually wandered in the kitchen and asked his brother if he needed any help. When Ed said he could peel the potatoes Al started his task immediately.
When the silence got too heavy, Ed finally spoke.
“You need to talk to her.”
“I know I do. I just don’t know how to begin,” Al admitted. “I could wave the white flag in the form of treating her to dinner. It would be a start.”
“You don’t really want to have this conversation in public. If her emotions are still running high that could get ugly,” Ed said as he added spices to the bowl of flour in front of him. “Take it from someone who sported a bruised cheek for several days. I’m just glad no one at that little Resembool eatery really realized who we were. Winry damn near knocked me out of my seat.”
“Yeah I guess you have a point there. I don’t think Lena’s that temperamental but I don’t’ want to risk it either.”
“You could invite her over here. I’ll make myself scare.”
“You don’t seem to have a problem doing that lately. This is the first night you’ve been home since you got back from your road trip.”
Ed tried to fight the flush but he knew he was crimson anyway. When he didn’t comment Al merely smiled at his Brother’s flushed face and said, “I just wish I knew where to begin.”
“Well how do you feel about, Lena?”
“What kind of question is that?”
“The kind that needs answering before you talk to her,” Ed replied sternly, giving Al a look.
“She’s like a little sister to me.”
“So you aren’t attracted to her at all?”
The silence hanging between them was confusing Ed. When the seconds drug on, he began to worry.
“Al?”
“I… well I hadn’t thought about it before she pointed it out but, well… she isn’t a kid anymore.”
“True and even if she was it’s not like you’re one of the ancients at your age.”
“True as well but the idea of dating her still seems… odd.”
“But I take it from your hesitation answering my question you’ve thought about it.”
“How could I not after what happened on Sunday?”
“Point taken, so is this something you actually want to do?”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean are you actually interested in her in this manner or would going out with her at this point be a pity date.”
“I… I don’t know. I don’t want her to be upset any longer but I also don’t know much about her other than the fact she has a great voice and fabulous ass.”
“Ah, so you haven’t been totally blind.”
“Tell me you haven’t noticed.”
“Touché,” Ed said almost instantly. A person would have to be blind not to notice the hips and ass on little miss Lena. “So what are you going to do?”
“What men have been doing since the dawn of time, Brother. I’m going to go grovel. Then, if that works, I’ll ask her if we can work on being closer friends and go from there.”
“So a one day at a time plan, that sounds good to me.”
“Great now what are you going to do about, Winry?”
“I was actually going to call her a few days ago before I got distracted and time got away from me.”
“So I noticed,” Al replied with a smirk as he dumped the peeled and cubed potatoes in the pot of water on the stove. “Who was the distraction, Jean or Roy?”
“Why did you ask that and what’s so funny?” Ed asked as he began chopping the lower stems off some asparagus and placing the spears on a baking sheet. It’s not like it would magically make the chicken and potatoes health food but they had to have something green on their plate.
“Oh no reason, mister ten days on the road with one and then three nights at the house of the other.”
Ed hadn’t looked at it like that. “Roy and I are just friends, Al. There’s nothing going on there at all.”
“Okay fine if you insist,” Al said deciding not to push the issue. “But that leaves more than checkers and canasta going on between you and the Lieutenant then, am I correct?”
“You might be,” Ed said as he made it a point not to look at his brother.
“I’m just giving you a hard time, Brother. I won’t pry.”
“No, it’s okay Al. I’m happy to report that getting laid on a regular basis is much more fun than checkers and canasta combined.”
It was Al’s turn to blush and all was right in Ed’s world.
++++
Al and Lena made it through their rough spot which meant the band back together and back on track. Ed and Jean seemed to be getting closer and it was killing Roy. It was painful to watch so he made a decision. He was going to put some distance between him and the older Elric. He started with backing away from hanging out together after work. It was hard, but Roy knew it needed to be done. He skipped Fidel’s, he stopped walking home with Ed, he even backed away from going to lunch with everyone. After a few weeks of that Roy was ready to spend his first completely Ed free weekend in months. Ever since that fateful Saturday Ed appeared at his front door looking for Graeme's Book on The Structure of Elements they saw each other at some point nearly every weekend.
That changed from nearly, to absolutely every weekend after their road trip and as much as Roy enjoyed it, it was also destroying him on some level.
With this looming overhead Roy chose to pass on grabbing a beer with everyone at the Tavern that Friday night. He decided to be up out and about, bright and early on Saturday morning so if Ed stopped by he wouldn’t be home, therefore avoiding the temptation to spend time with him. Things were going well until Roy wandered into the middle of downtown to grab an early dinner because the apple and sandwich he’d taken with him when he’d left that morning had worn off. He stepped into a hole in the wall diner and before he could take a seat he was greeted with, “Hey Roy, fancy seeing you here.”
Everything in him tensed when a voice that he knew all too well called out to him. Roy couldn’t help but think, what were the chances? He’d picked the no name greasy spoon because he figured he wouldn’t run into a soul he knew. But he’d run into two of them in the form of Al and Ed. They both waved Roy over and invited him to dine with them saying they’d just placed their orders.
Off kilter and totally unprepared for the turn of events Roy hesitated to the point where both the Elric’s gave him a funny look.
“Thanks but… thank you both for the offer but I was just going to order something to go.”
“Are you sure General?” Al asked.
“I’m positive Al, you boys enjoy your dinner,” was all Roy said as he purposefully ignored the golden eyes boring into him. He kept his attention focused on Al as he wished them pleasant dining and left the eatery.
Al was watching his sibling as Ed watched Roy’s retreating form. One of the reason’s they had gone out to dinner was because they had talked most of the day away and by the time their stomach’s were growling neither one of them were in the mood to cook. The biggest reason behind their less than cheerful mood just walked out of the diner without ordering the food he had proclaimed he wanted “to go.”
“See what I mean, Al.”
“I do,” Al replied wistfully. When he and Ed had been talking earlier Al had convinced his sibling that he was reading into things but now Al wasn’t so sure. Maybe Ed was right. Maybe Roy was avoiding him.
“I just can’t think of a single thing I’ve done to cause this.”
“Maybe it’s not as dire as you think.”
“The man would rather go hungry than eat in the same building I’m in.”
Al didn’t have anything to say to that. Even he had to admit Roy’s behavior was as strange as Ed had said it was.
The two sat in tense silence and when their dinner arrived Ed did little more than push his food around on his plate. Ed not in the mood to eat was always a depressing sight in Al’s book and after the fourth heavy sigh he couldn’t take it anymore.
“Talk to him.”
“How can I when he’s avoiding me like I have the plague?”
“When did you become the roll over and die type?”
“What?”
“You, you’re acting defeated. It’s not your usual style. Talking to Winry after the incident was no cake walk either but you survived it. If you lived through that, this should be easy.”
Ed gave Al a look but realized his brother was right. On top of that moping and guessing would get him nowhere. Tomorrow he was marching over to Roy’s bright and early and he wasn’t leaving until he got an answer.
+++
Roy hadn’t slept well at all. In fact he’d spent most of the night staring up at the ceiling trying to shake his incidental encounter with Ed. Finally giving up on sleep around six Roy got up, showered and ate. By a quarter after seven he was ready to walk out the door. His heart ended up in his throat when he opened it only to find Ed on the other side with his hand poised to knock.
“You scared the piss out of me, Roy.”
“Likewise,” Roy admitted as he tried to calm his racing heart. “Is there something I can do for you, Ed?”
“Do you have a few minutes to talk?”
“Not really, I was on my way out.”
“We could talk and walk, that wouldn’t bother me.”
Roy had to fight the urge to swallow loudly as those exquisite eyes he adored so much looked at him in a pleading manner. “I was really on a mission to get a few errands done so maybe another time?”
“Sure thing, no problem,” Ed replied even though his tone said otherwise. “Enjoy your day, Roy.”
“You do the same, Edo.”
With that, Ed started to walk away but when he got to the bottom of the steps leading off Roy’s porch Al’s words echoed in his head. He was rolling over again. Not in the mood to leave this unresolved for another day Ed turned around, fixed Roy with a pointed look and said, “No.”
“No?” Roy asked confused.
“That’s right, no. You don’t get to dismiss me like that. We’ve known each other for too long, been through too much together and over the past year you’ve become my best friend so no, you don’t get to just dismiss me after avoiding me for weeks.”
Stunned, that’s what Roy was and as Ed stood there before him with his arms folded over his chest he couldn’t think of a damn thing to say to the man.
“It’s complicated.”
“What with us isn’t? Do we know how to live any other way? You don’t have to avoid me, because of it.”
Roy sighed, “It’s not what you think.”
“Well if you aren’t avoiding me by all means please tell me what this is. I’m lost over here.”
“I… I have a lot on my mind.”
“And that makes me contagious how?”
“I’m sorry if you felt that way, Edo. That wasn’t my intent. I’ve been dodging everyone.”
“Why?”
“I didn’t want to burden anyone with my problems. I’m, just trying to clear my head.”
“You know you can talk to me about anything right?” Ed asked as he walked back up the steps to where Roy was standing.
“I know that, but there are no words for some things. Have you ever felt like that? Like whatever you had going on in your head couldn’t be expressed with words.”
Ed gave him an incredulous look.
“Sorry, forgot who I was talking to, of course you have.”
Ed smirked at Roy and said, “I’ve been told that I offer the most companionable silence this side of Xing.”
“Ed, nearly everything is this side of Xing.”
“I rest my case.”
The two of them laughed and Roy realized it felt good to let some of the tension he was carrying melt away. But then again he’d felt like part of his very being was missing for the past few weeks as he had tried to put some distance between him and Ed. It felt good to be standing beside him once again even if they weren’t immersed in their usual highbrow conversation.
The silence was indeed as companionable as Ed said it would be and that’s how they spent the day. In almost to complete silence just enjoying each other’s company. They moved from the porch to Roy’s den where they each picked a book off the shelf and settled down to read. Just past midday Ed’s growling stomach made Roy chuckle and the duo relocated to the kitchen where they fixed lunch together and ate in the same comfortable silence they’d enjoyed all day. After that they cleaned the kitchen and settled in the living room to listen to a talk show on the radio. When it was over that program was followed by a live broadcast of the West City Orchestra.
They enjoyed two hours of excellent music and when that drew to a close Ed disappeared into the kitchen. When he returned he was carrying two cups of tea and passed one to Roy. When Ed turned to leave the room Roy followed and they ended their day where it began, out on Roy’s porch, this time watching the sun set.
The day had been perfect and Roy was happier than he’d been in weeks. He was just about to say so when a voice interrupted his musings.
+++
Jean had been waiting for his boyfriend to show up at his place all day. They hadn’t had any solid plans but Ed had told him Friday night that he’d drop by on Sunday and by the time the sun dipped low on the horizon Jean had given up on Ed appearing and decided to look for him. Once Al told him Ed had taken off that morning headed for Mustang’s place Jean had to bite his tongue not to curse.
The sad thing is part of him knew that’s where Ed would be and that fact was enough to make his teeth grind. Ed spent a lot of time with Roy. More time than he spent with Jean and some days that fact was hard to endure. He’d always hoped Ed would realize this and snap out of it but as time passed it seemed to be getting worse instead of better. The moment the two of them were together everything and everyone else seemed to fade into the background. Jean had no doubt that Ed hadn’t even thought about the fact he’d told him he’d stop by.
“Hey guys, am I interrupting anything?”
“No not at all,” Ed said as a smile claimed his face. “Come on up.”
“No thanks, Love I was merely looking for you.”
Ed’s brows knitted for a moment before he said, “Oh shit, I was supposed to be at your place wasn’t I?”
“It’s ok,” Jean said as his eyes locked onto Roy’s. “I knew where to find you.”
Roy didn’t falter under the intense icy blue stare Jean was giving him, but he’d never forget it. No, forgetting that look want possible. Jean Havoc was pissed and Roy knew exactly why. If they weren’t friends and coworkers this would have dissolved into one ugly scene.
“I was hoping you had time to join me for dinner.”
“Of course I do,” Ed replied as he sat his cup on the railing. “Forgive me for not showing up before now.”
Once Ed was off the porch and standing beside him, blue eyes that hadn’t left Roy’s tense face grew cocky before Jean said, “No problem, Ed. I’m sure you can think of a way make it up to me later.”
Ed swatted Jean on the arm as his ears turned red before waving goodbye to Roy and turning to leave.
“Sleep well, Chief,” Jean said as he turned to follow Ed.
“You do the same, Lieutenant.”
Jean placed his hand on the small of Ed’s back, looked over his shoulder and with a wicked smirk painting his face he said, “I’m sure I will.”
Roy narrowed his eyes at the man but said nothing. If peace was to be kept he would have to remain quiet on the matter, and that’s exactly what he’d do. As he watched the two leave his yard then grow smaller in the distance Roy cursed under his breath. Once he looked down and saw Ed’s empty mug he swore loud enough to startle the squirrel that was sitting on the railing on the far end of his porch.
The gray and brown creature looked at him with his head tilted to the side as if to say, have you lost your mind. Roy answered yes to the unasked question and in what could only be called a showing of compassion the squirrel brought the nut it was trying to pry open as close to Roy as it dared and dropped it off. When Roy said thank you but didn’t pick it up the creature nudged the gift closer to Roy with its nose.
“I think you would get more use out of that than I.”
A little bit of chittering.
“No thank you, nuts aren’t really my thing.”
More chittering and head tilting.
“I really have lost it haven’t I? I’m out here talking to a squirrel… and the odd thing is I think you’re listening.”
As if to exemplify that point the animal sat down on its haunches and looked at Roy.
“What should I do? This is killing me.”
The squirrel flipped its bushy tail around a bit before turning toward the gate.
“Go after him? I can’t do that.”
An almost angry snip is the response.
“It’s not my place.”
The creature turned its back on Roy and bounced back to its original place on the railing at the edge of the porch. It was official. His love for Ed had robbed him of his sanity… Roy Mustang had just had a conversation with a squirrel.
++++
Time marched forward as it was apt to do and on this particular day found Edward Elric excited. Today was one of the Saturday’s he got to spend with one of the kids from the orphanage and today it was Taylor. Him and Al often took the time to take one of the kids at the orphanage out for the day and today was one of those days for Ed. Taylor was easily one of his favorites even though he’d never admit it. She had dark brown hair and beautiful large green eyes. She was a year younger than Elysia and they could pass for sisters. Once the two got together they acted the parts as well.
Ed had always hoped Jean would warm up to this particular activity of his but so far no dice. He’d invited him out with them but Jean hadn’t seemed inclined at all to spend his Saturday in this manner. Ed knew volunteering wasn’t for everyone but this was something very personal for him and Al. They were orphans too and there wasn’t a day that they weren’t thankful for the people that had taken time to help them through life when all they had was each other.
Jean’s lack of interest shouldn’t bother him so much but it did. It bothered Ed a lot. The man seemed almost… annoyed by Ed’s need to volunteer. In fact, Jean didn’t seem interested in most of the things Ed did with his spare time. While not a big deal in and of itself it didn’t leave a whole lot of common ground for the pair to interact on. Shaking the morose thoughts Ed asked Taylor where she wanted to go first and in a heartbeat they were off to the nearest clothing store.
After taking her shopping, having lunch together and listening to how life was going for Taylor, Ed looked up from his drink and saw large green eyes focused on him all while looking extra innocent.
“Ok, what is it?”
“Nothing...”
“If that’s the case I guess we’ll head back.”
“ED!!”
“I’m just kidding Taylor we’re going to go see, Elysia.”
The smile on the girls face was as wide as it was contagious.
+++
When they arrived at the Hughes household Ed was immediately abandoned for the company of Elysia. Once Ed and Gracia made it into the den, Ed realized Roy was there and the three of them were playing gin.
“Would you care to join us Edo since your guest ran off with our fourth person?”
Ed nodded and said he’d be right back after he got himself something to drink. Once he was seated and caught up on how the game was progressing he partnered with Gracia since she and Elysia had been on a team together. Five hands later Roy and Maes were wishing Elysia had never left the table. Ed and Gracia were mopping the floor with them. When all was said and done, the guys were thoroughly defeated and pouting.
Gracia just laughed at the long faces and headed upstairs to check on the girls.
"So how's your day been Ed?" Maes asked "Miss Taylor looks as lovely as ever."
"It's been fine," Ed replied solemnly but neither man believed that claim.
"What's weighing on your mind so heavily?"
"Nothing that should be I suppose. I just wish Jean had been interested in going out with us today. No biggie."
"Maybe dress shops and toy stores aren't his thing," Maes offered hoping to lighten the mood.
"Well it doesn't seem to matter what I'm doing if I've got one of the kids he keeps his distance."
"Kids aren't for everyone," Maes added.
"True," Roy agreed before changing the subject. He didn't like Ed looking so lost in thought. "What are your plans for the rest of the day?"
"Not much really. After taking Taylor back I had planned on doing nothing more than finishing up that song for Jean's birthday party. It feels like I’ve been working on it forever.”
"How is that coming?"
"Pretty good I think. But that means nothing coming from me since I wrote it."
The men laughed at that and continued on in that manner until the women returned… and what an entrance they made. All of their arms were loaded down with stuff. Apparently Elysia had gotten a new wardrobe and had passed a lot of her smaller belongings on to Taylor.
"And just how are we supposed to get all of that across town, little missy?" Ed asked. “We walked over here.”
"I'm sure Roy wouldn't mind giving you a lift, he has to pass right by there," Maes offered on Roy's behalf.
Roy just sighed and agreed. He'd long since given up on making Hughes behave where he and Ed were concerned. Anymore he just went along for the ride.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Part 2 of this Chapter HERE
Chapter 15: Skipping a Beat: Part One of Two
Genres: Angst/Romance
Rating: T
Pairing: Roy/Ed, Jean/Ed
Total Word Count: 11,911
Warnings: Some language and sexual references
Spoilers: Possible movie spoilers
A/N: Ok my ever so patient fans, old and new, of this fic. I have not abandoned it. *hugs on you for not giving up on me* No beta on this on so all typo's are all on me. Sorry it took me forever but I'll shut up now... on with the fic!
Skipping a beat
When Roy opened his door the last thing he expected was to see was a soaked and distraught looking Edward but there he was all the same. Shaking off his shock Roy stepped aside and let the man in. Ed stood in his entryway, teeth chattering, hair plastered to his face and shivering. Roy couldn’t think of anything that could have possibly happened to prompt the current situation. The one thing he did know was Ed looked absolutely miserable and he didn’t like that fact one damn bit.
Roy was about to ask him what happened when Ed blurted out, “I screwed up.”
“I’m sure whatever it is that happened between you and Alphonse is not as bad as…”
“Not with Al, with Jean.”
Well that declaration got Roy’s attention. He had been certain whatever it was, was between the Elric brothers.
“You need to get that wet clothing off. Follow me, and I’ll go find you a towel and something dry to put on.”
Once they reached Roy’s bedroom Roy gave Ed a towel and some new clothing to put on. As soon as Ed stepped into the man’s bathroom he peeled out of his shirt and began scrubbing at his wet hair with the towel. Once he got the dry shirt on he realized his pants were a lost cause as well. Hooking his thumbs in the waistband Ed angrily shoved them off as if they were the cause of his current dilemma. Tossing his wet clothing over the shower rod he pulled on Roy’s jogging pants, flung the door open and marched out into the hall.
Roy was seated in his favorite chair in the living room when Ed finally came tromping back down the steps. He looked furious. In Roy’s eyes his blonde companion was a perfect mix of sexy, cute and pissed as he came stomping down the staircase wearing Roy’s shirt, too long pants and a scowl. He flopped down in the chair across from Roy and angrily shoved some of the wet strands plastered to his forehead to the side and sighed.
“Care to tell me what happened?” Roy said as he filled two glasses with wine.
“That’s the whole thing; I can’t because I don’t have the slightest clue,” Ed grumbled as he took the offered glass from Roy’s hand and downed it all in one go before holding it out to be refilled.
Roy gave him a puzzled look as Ed sat there scowling. Ed recounted what had happened between him and Jean all while staring up at the ceiling. When Roy didn’t immediately chime in with something Ed added, “You know what really gets me, besides the fact the entire exchange made zero sense?”
“What Edo?”
“The last two things he said, because you can't make me into something I'm not, and when I asked what that was supposed to mean and told him I was confused. His response of, I know you are and that hurts more than you could ever know, made my stomach knot. Even without knowing what the hell he meant everything in me thinks that phrase is bad news. So if you have any idea what that was all about please clue me in because I’m so lost I feel like I’m drowning.”
Roy didn’t know what to tell Ed because he couldn’t make sense of the situation himself. The one thing Roy did pick up was that Jean was apparently upset Ed hadn’t come to see him once he got back into town and that Ed had missed his thinly veiled sarcasm. When Roy mentioned this, Ed’s brows furrowed before he asked, “But I stopped by his house twice today after we got back into town and he wasn’t home.”
“Did you tell him that?”
“No,” Ed sighed.
“I suppose that would be a good place to start whenever you see him again. Other than that I’m not sure what advice to give other than trying to get him to talk to you.”
“But why be mad at me over something like that? What difference would it have made if I had been exhausted from the trip and just getting up from a nap when he stopped by?”
“Relationships and emotions are funny things Edo, they don’t always follow logic.”
“So I see. I just don’t think me strolling over there and asking to talk is going to pan out any differently than it did in my front yard,” Ed said as he looked off to the side.
Blonde hair darkened to the shade of fresh honey by the rain clung to the side of Ed’s face. Roy could tell that Ed’s teeth were clenched and more than anything he wanted to run his fingers across that perfect jaw line and watch that tension melt away. Anymore, Ed didn’t look right wearing a scowl even though it was something he’d worn more often than not when they first met. Yes, the overly driven man-child that was Edward Elric had evolved to become an almost entirely different being.
A mellow, carefree, even if somewhat confused, happy being that no longer looked right when upset. At least he didn’t to Roy. In Roy’s world, an upset Ed should not exist. This meant that despite the fact it was going to kill off something in his soul to do so, Roy was going to do what he could to help Ed patch things up with Jean.
Steeling his nerves Roy said, “Well there are other ways to communicate.”
When puzzled golden eyes narrowed at him Roy ignored the high pitched screaming of his spirit and said, “Body language, Edo. I’m sure with the right smile, the right look and the right caress… the right words won’t matter.”
Ed’s face turned five shades of crimson but he swallowed hard and asked, “You think so?”
“I know so,” Roy replied and the words surely shaved five years off his life.
“Humph, easy for you to say, Oh Legendary Lover Boy of Central, but me, I’m still new at all of this stuff and to be honest I… I’m not even sure if I’m any good at it.”
“Has…” Roy faltered, took a large drink of wine and thought a bottle of the stuff would not be enough to get him through this conversation, “has he had any complaints before?”
“No but I know… well I just know I could be better at some things.”
“I’m sure your insecurities are unfounded, Edo.”
“I could prove it to you but I wouldn’t want to scar you for life.”
If this kept up Roy may die this very evening. You could only shave so many years off a man’s existence before the reaper immediately came looking for him. “You are worrying over nothing.”
Ed snorted and said, “You say this now but you’ve never been on the receiving end of the mockery I make a blow job into. Trust me, it could probably scar you for life.”
Dead, that’s what Roy was going to be. The imagery that simple phrase alone sparked in Roy’s mind was going to be his undoing. It amazed Roy what a little bit of red wine did for Ed and his hang-ups. That shy person that avoided talk of intimate things took a back seat to this sensually sarcastic creature that didn’t bite his tongue.
Polishing off what wine remained in his glass, Roy swallowed hard and replied, “Practice makes perfect and there’s no better time than the present to go for it.”
“You think so?”
“Absolutely,” Roy replied.
Hopping to his feet Ed shouted, “Fuck it! I’m going for it then. I don’t idle well anyway and I hate inaction, to me that’s worse than the problem.”
Roy stood up as well and when Ed marched toward the steps Roy sighed and resisted the urge to beat his head against the nearest wall. There was one lone flickering ember left alight in his soul and it was sure to die off due to his next action. Walking into the kitchen Roy went down into the basement then into his wine cellar. Selecting a well aged red wine he grabbed it off the shelf and swore under his breath. He didn’t know what felt worse, helping Ed into the arms of another or how selfish he felt for not really wanting to do it because he desired Ed for himself.
Cursing one more time he climbed the steps and was surprised to find a redressed Ed standing in the kitchen. Still damp clothing clinging to him like a second skin he had his hands shoved in his pockets as he rocked back and forth on his heels.
“You ok Roy? What had you swearing down there?”
“Stubbed my toe, nothing to worry about Edo,” Roy lied as he handed Ed the bottle.
“What’s this for?”
“Everything’s better with wine.”
Ed smiled at him and said, “Thanks Roy,” before leaning forward and giving Roy a brief hug. “I don’t know what I would have done these past two weeks without you.”
“What are friends for Edo, what are friends for.”
Those nine words extinguished the flicker.
+++
Ed wasn’t one to interfere in his brother’s life but as the week trudged on he knew he had to say something. As a band, they couldn’t skip out on Fidel with such short notice. They’d made a commitment and they had to stick with it. That’s why when Wednesday night rolled around Ed was at home cooking a dinner of fried chicken and mashed potatoes for him and his brother instead of over at Jean’s. If anyone could use a plate of comfort food it was his brother. Al eventually wandered in the kitchen and asked his brother if he needed any help. When Ed said he could peel the potatoes Al started his task immediately.
When the silence got too heavy, Ed finally spoke.
“You need to talk to her.”
“I know I do. I just don’t know how to begin,” Al admitted. “I could wave the white flag in the form of treating her to dinner. It would be a start.”
“You don’t really want to have this conversation in public. If her emotions are still running high that could get ugly,” Ed said as he added spices to the bowl of flour in front of him. “Take it from someone who sported a bruised cheek for several days. I’m just glad no one at that little Resembool eatery really realized who we were. Winry damn near knocked me out of my seat.”
“Yeah I guess you have a point there. I don’t think Lena’s that temperamental but I don’t’ want to risk it either.”
“You could invite her over here. I’ll make myself scare.”
“You don’t seem to have a problem doing that lately. This is the first night you’ve been home since you got back from your road trip.”
Ed tried to fight the flush but he knew he was crimson anyway. When he didn’t comment Al merely smiled at his Brother’s flushed face and said, “I just wish I knew where to begin.”
“Well how do you feel about, Lena?”
“What kind of question is that?”
“The kind that needs answering before you talk to her,” Ed replied sternly, giving Al a look.
“She’s like a little sister to me.”
“So you aren’t attracted to her at all?”
The silence hanging between them was confusing Ed. When the seconds drug on, he began to worry.
“Al?”
“I… well I hadn’t thought about it before she pointed it out but, well… she isn’t a kid anymore.”
“True and even if she was it’s not like you’re one of the ancients at your age.”
“True as well but the idea of dating her still seems… odd.”
“But I take it from your hesitation answering my question you’ve thought about it.”
“How could I not after what happened on Sunday?”
“Point taken, so is this something you actually want to do?”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean are you actually interested in her in this manner or would going out with her at this point be a pity date.”
“I… I don’t know. I don’t want her to be upset any longer but I also don’t know much about her other than the fact she has a great voice and fabulous ass.”
“Ah, so you haven’t been totally blind.”
“Tell me you haven’t noticed.”
“Touché,” Ed said almost instantly. A person would have to be blind not to notice the hips and ass on little miss Lena. “So what are you going to do?”
“What men have been doing since the dawn of time, Brother. I’m going to go grovel. Then, if that works, I’ll ask her if we can work on being closer friends and go from there.”
“So a one day at a time plan, that sounds good to me.”
“Great now what are you going to do about, Winry?”
“I was actually going to call her a few days ago before I got distracted and time got away from me.”
“So I noticed,” Al replied with a smirk as he dumped the peeled and cubed potatoes in the pot of water on the stove. “Who was the distraction, Jean or Roy?”
“Why did you ask that and what’s so funny?” Ed asked as he began chopping the lower stems off some asparagus and placing the spears on a baking sheet. It’s not like it would magically make the chicken and potatoes health food but they had to have something green on their plate.
“Oh no reason, mister ten days on the road with one and then three nights at the house of the other.”
Ed hadn’t looked at it like that. “Roy and I are just friends, Al. There’s nothing going on there at all.”
“Okay fine if you insist,” Al said deciding not to push the issue. “But that leaves more than checkers and canasta going on between you and the Lieutenant then, am I correct?”
“You might be,” Ed said as he made it a point not to look at his brother.
“I’m just giving you a hard time, Brother. I won’t pry.”
“No, it’s okay Al. I’m happy to report that getting laid on a regular basis is much more fun than checkers and canasta combined.”
It was Al’s turn to blush and all was right in Ed’s world.
++++
Al and Lena made it through their rough spot which meant the band back together and back on track. Ed and Jean seemed to be getting closer and it was killing Roy. It was painful to watch so he made a decision. He was going to put some distance between him and the older Elric. He started with backing away from hanging out together after work. It was hard, but Roy knew it needed to be done. He skipped Fidel’s, he stopped walking home with Ed, he even backed away from going to lunch with everyone. After a few weeks of that Roy was ready to spend his first completely Ed free weekend in months. Ever since that fateful Saturday Ed appeared at his front door looking for Graeme's Book on The Structure of Elements they saw each other at some point nearly every weekend.
That changed from nearly, to absolutely every weekend after their road trip and as much as Roy enjoyed it, it was also destroying him on some level.
With this looming overhead Roy chose to pass on grabbing a beer with everyone at the Tavern that Friday night. He decided to be up out and about, bright and early on Saturday morning so if Ed stopped by he wouldn’t be home, therefore avoiding the temptation to spend time with him. Things were going well until Roy wandered into the middle of downtown to grab an early dinner because the apple and sandwich he’d taken with him when he’d left that morning had worn off. He stepped into a hole in the wall diner and before he could take a seat he was greeted with, “Hey Roy, fancy seeing you here.”
Everything in him tensed when a voice that he knew all too well called out to him. Roy couldn’t help but think, what were the chances? He’d picked the no name greasy spoon because he figured he wouldn’t run into a soul he knew. But he’d run into two of them in the form of Al and Ed. They both waved Roy over and invited him to dine with them saying they’d just placed their orders.
Off kilter and totally unprepared for the turn of events Roy hesitated to the point where both the Elric’s gave him a funny look.
“Thanks but… thank you both for the offer but I was just going to order something to go.”
“Are you sure General?” Al asked.
“I’m positive Al, you boys enjoy your dinner,” was all Roy said as he purposefully ignored the golden eyes boring into him. He kept his attention focused on Al as he wished them pleasant dining and left the eatery.
Al was watching his sibling as Ed watched Roy’s retreating form. One of the reason’s they had gone out to dinner was because they had talked most of the day away and by the time their stomach’s were growling neither one of them were in the mood to cook. The biggest reason behind their less than cheerful mood just walked out of the diner without ordering the food he had proclaimed he wanted “to go.”
“See what I mean, Al.”
“I do,” Al replied wistfully. When he and Ed had been talking earlier Al had convinced his sibling that he was reading into things but now Al wasn’t so sure. Maybe Ed was right. Maybe Roy was avoiding him.
“I just can’t think of a single thing I’ve done to cause this.”
“Maybe it’s not as dire as you think.”
“The man would rather go hungry than eat in the same building I’m in.”
Al didn’t have anything to say to that. Even he had to admit Roy’s behavior was as strange as Ed had said it was.
The two sat in tense silence and when their dinner arrived Ed did little more than push his food around on his plate. Ed not in the mood to eat was always a depressing sight in Al’s book and after the fourth heavy sigh he couldn’t take it anymore.
“Talk to him.”
“How can I when he’s avoiding me like I have the plague?”
“When did you become the roll over and die type?”
“What?”
“You, you’re acting defeated. It’s not your usual style. Talking to Winry after the incident was no cake walk either but you survived it. If you lived through that, this should be easy.”
Ed gave Al a look but realized his brother was right. On top of that moping and guessing would get him nowhere. Tomorrow he was marching over to Roy’s bright and early and he wasn’t leaving until he got an answer.
+++
Roy hadn’t slept well at all. In fact he’d spent most of the night staring up at the ceiling trying to shake his incidental encounter with Ed. Finally giving up on sleep around six Roy got up, showered and ate. By a quarter after seven he was ready to walk out the door. His heart ended up in his throat when he opened it only to find Ed on the other side with his hand poised to knock.
“You scared the piss out of me, Roy.”
“Likewise,” Roy admitted as he tried to calm his racing heart. “Is there something I can do for you, Ed?”
“Do you have a few minutes to talk?”
“Not really, I was on my way out.”
“We could talk and walk, that wouldn’t bother me.”
Roy had to fight the urge to swallow loudly as those exquisite eyes he adored so much looked at him in a pleading manner. “I was really on a mission to get a few errands done so maybe another time?”
“Sure thing, no problem,” Ed replied even though his tone said otherwise. “Enjoy your day, Roy.”
“You do the same, Edo.”
With that, Ed started to walk away but when he got to the bottom of the steps leading off Roy’s porch Al’s words echoed in his head. He was rolling over again. Not in the mood to leave this unresolved for another day Ed turned around, fixed Roy with a pointed look and said, “No.”
“No?” Roy asked confused.
“That’s right, no. You don’t get to dismiss me like that. We’ve known each other for too long, been through too much together and over the past year you’ve become my best friend so no, you don’t get to just dismiss me after avoiding me for weeks.”
Stunned, that’s what Roy was and as Ed stood there before him with his arms folded over his chest he couldn’t think of a damn thing to say to the man.
“It’s complicated.”
“What with us isn’t? Do we know how to live any other way? You don’t have to avoid me, because of it.”
Roy sighed, “It’s not what you think.”
“Well if you aren’t avoiding me by all means please tell me what this is. I’m lost over here.”
“I… I have a lot on my mind.”
“And that makes me contagious how?”
“I’m sorry if you felt that way, Edo. That wasn’t my intent. I’ve been dodging everyone.”
“Why?”
“I didn’t want to burden anyone with my problems. I’m, just trying to clear my head.”
“You know you can talk to me about anything right?” Ed asked as he walked back up the steps to where Roy was standing.
“I know that, but there are no words for some things. Have you ever felt like that? Like whatever you had going on in your head couldn’t be expressed with words.”
Ed gave him an incredulous look.
“Sorry, forgot who I was talking to, of course you have.”
Ed smirked at Roy and said, “I’ve been told that I offer the most companionable silence this side of Xing.”
“Ed, nearly everything is this side of Xing.”
“I rest my case.”
The two of them laughed and Roy realized it felt good to let some of the tension he was carrying melt away. But then again he’d felt like part of his very being was missing for the past few weeks as he had tried to put some distance between him and Ed. It felt good to be standing beside him once again even if they weren’t immersed in their usual highbrow conversation.
The silence was indeed as companionable as Ed said it would be and that’s how they spent the day. In almost to complete silence just enjoying each other’s company. They moved from the porch to Roy’s den where they each picked a book off the shelf and settled down to read. Just past midday Ed’s growling stomach made Roy chuckle and the duo relocated to the kitchen where they fixed lunch together and ate in the same comfortable silence they’d enjoyed all day. After that they cleaned the kitchen and settled in the living room to listen to a talk show on the radio. When it was over that program was followed by a live broadcast of the West City Orchestra.
They enjoyed two hours of excellent music and when that drew to a close Ed disappeared into the kitchen. When he returned he was carrying two cups of tea and passed one to Roy. When Ed turned to leave the room Roy followed and they ended their day where it began, out on Roy’s porch, this time watching the sun set.
The day had been perfect and Roy was happier than he’d been in weeks. He was just about to say so when a voice interrupted his musings.
+++
Jean had been waiting for his boyfriend to show up at his place all day. They hadn’t had any solid plans but Ed had told him Friday night that he’d drop by on Sunday and by the time the sun dipped low on the horizon Jean had given up on Ed appearing and decided to look for him. Once Al told him Ed had taken off that morning headed for Mustang’s place Jean had to bite his tongue not to curse.
The sad thing is part of him knew that’s where Ed would be and that fact was enough to make his teeth grind. Ed spent a lot of time with Roy. More time than he spent with Jean and some days that fact was hard to endure. He’d always hoped Ed would realize this and snap out of it but as time passed it seemed to be getting worse instead of better. The moment the two of them were together everything and everyone else seemed to fade into the background. Jean had no doubt that Ed hadn’t even thought about the fact he’d told him he’d stop by.
“Hey guys, am I interrupting anything?”
“No not at all,” Ed said as a smile claimed his face. “Come on up.”
“No thanks, Love I was merely looking for you.”
Ed’s brows knitted for a moment before he said, “Oh shit, I was supposed to be at your place wasn’t I?”
“It’s ok,” Jean said as his eyes locked onto Roy’s. “I knew where to find you.”
Roy didn’t falter under the intense icy blue stare Jean was giving him, but he’d never forget it. No, forgetting that look want possible. Jean Havoc was pissed and Roy knew exactly why. If they weren’t friends and coworkers this would have dissolved into one ugly scene.
“I was hoping you had time to join me for dinner.”
“Of course I do,” Ed replied as he sat his cup on the railing. “Forgive me for not showing up before now.”
Once Ed was off the porch and standing beside him, blue eyes that hadn’t left Roy’s tense face grew cocky before Jean said, “No problem, Ed. I’m sure you can think of a way make it up to me later.”
Ed swatted Jean on the arm as his ears turned red before waving goodbye to Roy and turning to leave.
“Sleep well, Chief,” Jean said as he turned to follow Ed.
“You do the same, Lieutenant.”
Jean placed his hand on the small of Ed’s back, looked over his shoulder and with a wicked smirk painting his face he said, “I’m sure I will.”
Roy narrowed his eyes at the man but said nothing. If peace was to be kept he would have to remain quiet on the matter, and that’s exactly what he’d do. As he watched the two leave his yard then grow smaller in the distance Roy cursed under his breath. Once he looked down and saw Ed’s empty mug he swore loud enough to startle the squirrel that was sitting on the railing on the far end of his porch.
The gray and brown creature looked at him with his head tilted to the side as if to say, have you lost your mind. Roy answered yes to the unasked question and in what could only be called a showing of compassion the squirrel brought the nut it was trying to pry open as close to Roy as it dared and dropped it off. When Roy said thank you but didn’t pick it up the creature nudged the gift closer to Roy with its nose.
“I think you would get more use out of that than I.”
A little bit of chittering.
“No thank you, nuts aren’t really my thing.”
More chittering and head tilting.
“I really have lost it haven’t I? I’m out here talking to a squirrel… and the odd thing is I think you’re listening.”
As if to exemplify that point the animal sat down on its haunches and looked at Roy.
“What should I do? This is killing me.”
The squirrel flipped its bushy tail around a bit before turning toward the gate.
“Go after him? I can’t do that.”
An almost angry snip is the response.
“It’s not my place.”
The creature turned its back on Roy and bounced back to its original place on the railing at the edge of the porch. It was official. His love for Ed had robbed him of his sanity… Roy Mustang had just had a conversation with a squirrel.
++++
Time marched forward as it was apt to do and on this particular day found Edward Elric excited. Today was one of the Saturday’s he got to spend with one of the kids from the orphanage and today it was Taylor. Him and Al often took the time to take one of the kids at the orphanage out for the day and today was one of those days for Ed. Taylor was easily one of his favorites even though he’d never admit it. She had dark brown hair and beautiful large green eyes. She was a year younger than Elysia and they could pass for sisters. Once the two got together they acted the parts as well.
Ed had always hoped Jean would warm up to this particular activity of his but so far no dice. He’d invited him out with them but Jean hadn’t seemed inclined at all to spend his Saturday in this manner. Ed knew volunteering wasn’t for everyone but this was something very personal for him and Al. They were orphans too and there wasn’t a day that they weren’t thankful for the people that had taken time to help them through life when all they had was each other.
Jean’s lack of interest shouldn’t bother him so much but it did. It bothered Ed a lot. The man seemed almost… annoyed by Ed’s need to volunteer. In fact, Jean didn’t seem interested in most of the things Ed did with his spare time. While not a big deal in and of itself it didn’t leave a whole lot of common ground for the pair to interact on. Shaking the morose thoughts Ed asked Taylor where she wanted to go first and in a heartbeat they were off to the nearest clothing store.
After taking her shopping, having lunch together and listening to how life was going for Taylor, Ed looked up from his drink and saw large green eyes focused on him all while looking extra innocent.
“Ok, what is it?”
“Nothing...”
“If that’s the case I guess we’ll head back.”
“ED!!”
“I’m just kidding Taylor we’re going to go see, Elysia.”
The smile on the girls face was as wide as it was contagious.
+++
When they arrived at the Hughes household Ed was immediately abandoned for the company of Elysia. Once Ed and Gracia made it into the den, Ed realized Roy was there and the three of them were playing gin.
“Would you care to join us Edo since your guest ran off with our fourth person?”
Ed nodded and said he’d be right back after he got himself something to drink. Once he was seated and caught up on how the game was progressing he partnered with Gracia since she and Elysia had been on a team together. Five hands later Roy and Maes were wishing Elysia had never left the table. Ed and Gracia were mopping the floor with them. When all was said and done, the guys were thoroughly defeated and pouting.
Gracia just laughed at the long faces and headed upstairs to check on the girls.
"So how's your day been Ed?" Maes asked "Miss Taylor looks as lovely as ever."
"It's been fine," Ed replied solemnly but neither man believed that claim.
"What's weighing on your mind so heavily?"
"Nothing that should be I suppose. I just wish Jean had been interested in going out with us today. No biggie."
"Maybe dress shops and toy stores aren't his thing," Maes offered hoping to lighten the mood.
"Well it doesn't seem to matter what I'm doing if I've got one of the kids he keeps his distance."
"Kids aren't for everyone," Maes added.
"True," Roy agreed before changing the subject. He didn't like Ed looking so lost in thought. "What are your plans for the rest of the day?"
"Not much really. After taking Taylor back I had planned on doing nothing more than finishing up that song for Jean's birthday party. It feels like I’ve been working on it forever.”
"How is that coming?"
"Pretty good I think. But that means nothing coming from me since I wrote it."
The men laughed at that and continued on in that manner until the women returned… and what an entrance they made. All of their arms were loaded down with stuff. Apparently Elysia had gotten a new wardrobe and had passed a lot of her smaller belongings on to Taylor.
"And just how are we supposed to get all of that across town, little missy?" Ed asked. “We walked over here.”
"I'm sure Roy wouldn't mind giving you a lift, he has to pass right by there," Maes offered on Roy's behalf.
Roy just sighed and agreed. He'd long since given up on making Hughes behave where he and Ed were concerned. Anymore he just went along for the ride.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Part 2 of this Chapter HERE