Title: Taking a Break
Universe: Man
Pairings: Allen/Lavi
Summary: Allen and Lavi are on break due to personal hardships. AU.
Disclaimer: If I owned it, I wouldn't be writing fan service like this.
Author Notes: I always seen AU's about school and not enough about a world similar to how the Black Order functions. Sure you got a few about a fantasy-like war plot. But what about something a bit more modern?
Something to point out though. Allen's age is 26. So everyone is older, unlike in the manga.
I'm unsure if this should be a one-shot. Do drop a review or a PM if you guys want to see more. I might update it, if it hits my fancy.
It was a rather pleasant morning. The weather itself wasn't that bad, but there was promise of rain due to the clouds looming at the edge of town. This fact only had the citizens of London rushing out, wanting to get the tasks of today over with. Not that it stop them. They were use to the weather always changing. If anything, they would be more shocked to learn that drought has passed over them than another thunderstorm.
However, this story isn't about weather. Weather is hardly playing a part in this story. If anything, there is a certain pair sitting in a certain cafe. It was a quaint little shop. The rustic furniture was spread out in the small space. Various locals came and went, holding a steaming cup of tea or coffee. A handful of occupants actually stayed inside, not minding the fact they can take their Tuesday morning at a more leisurely pace.
The pair we're currently stalking was seated off to the back. It was a rather cramp area, where a booth happened to be shoved off too. There was no window to peer out of. The window itself was across the room, showing off the scenery of the busy cobblestone streets outside. The man actually had his back to the wall so he can watch the cafe. He was an odd looking fellow. Shock white hair with a jagged scar going along the left side of his face. Some would consider him handsome, though the scar didn't always did him good as far as looks went. His companion apparently didn't mind much. The Asian woman just simply smiled and chattered away. Often her fingers would twirl one of her ponytails as she thought on the topic.
It didn't take long for the topic to go downhill though. That always happened when the white haired man was around.
"I don't get it..."
"There isn't much to get."
The Chinese woman glared at her companion. It was frustrating when her friend would get like this. All the time, when something was burdening him he would just brush it off and try to shoulder it all himself. Yet when it came to others, he would just swoop in and try to lighten the burden. He can be so... so...
"Selfish!"
"Wha?!" He was completely taken off guard.
"You're so selfish Allen Walker! I swear. With that stubbornness of yours, you're more selfish about keeping those problems to yourself. Its really frustrating you know."
The white haired man blinked a moment. He couldn't help but stare at his friend. It was scary when Lenalee got angry at times, but this... This isn't anger. Oh no. She was absolutely seething underneath that mask of frustration. Then again she does have a point.
Poking at his third helping of a banana split, "I... just don't want to be a bother is all."
That earned him a swift kick to the shin.
"Really? Don't want to be a bother?" Lenalee mocked as she ignored the yelp of pain. "How many times do you pester us? Even when you were overseas, you would try to help us out in every way possible."
Pouting, "You didn't have to kick me you know..." The bowl was pushed off to the side as the snowy-haired man leaned back into the booth. A quick glance over the cafe occupants, "And its not that easy to talk about. Even with Lavi."
"Not that..." Lenalee trailed off as she thought on the words. Frowning due to concern, "Don't tell me you haven't spoken to him about what happened."
Gritting his teeth, Allen rubbed at the scar on his face. "...No. I haven't. Its not exactly easy to strike up a conversation about that."
"You haven't spoken to anyone about it though! You really need to get that stuff off your chest Allen. Or at least speak with The Legion. I'm cer-"
"No." Allen said firmly. "I'll be fine."
"But Allen, you can't really think that." It wasn't a question. Oh no, it wasn't.
"Think what? Think that I'm perfectly fine with the fact that just four months ago I was in bloody fucken Iraq?!" Utensils clanged loudly as Allen's fist connected with the table top.
The whole cafe went silent. Most of the occupants glanced over, already judging the pair as they sat there. There was a few stares that held some pity. After all, when someone yells out Iraq, most would assume the current war. If you could call it that. One, by one, whispers began. The new subject for multiple groups was how rude that man was. Or just the simple fact that it was such a unfortunate subject to be discussed in the public.
Allen really didn't need to snap, but he was getting tired of everyone pressuring him about it. Didn't stop the guilt from seeping in though. Even with the murmurs buzzing around, his guilt multiplied by the tenth-fold. With shoulders drooping, stormy gray orbs stared at his miss-matched hands. A glossy black for the left and a creamy white for the right.
Rubbing at the prosthetic for a moment, "I'm sorry... Its just that... everyone has been pressuring me. Treating me like I'm some bomb ready to be set off. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the concern. But right now I need to figure out myself and what I'm going to do. Not sit around and deal with government checks for the rest of my life."
"Don't be sorry. I should have known better." Lenalee said softly as her hand wrapped around Allen's left. Even though he couldn't feel anything due to prosthetic, the gesture was still appreciated. "You know how it is, when all you hear about is horror stories of soldiers coming back from the war..."
Giving out a dry laugh, "Yeah... I guess this break was really needed." the weak smile faltered, as he stared at Lenalee's hand.
"Do you really think that?"
"No." A pause, then a sigh. "I honestly hate him for this. I know I'm being difficult and his suggestion made sense. But I can't help but hate him. I really need him at my side."
Keeping the tears at bay, Allen then quickly stood. The honesty of revealing all this to his friend was a bit to much for him. Not to mention he could still feel the various occupants eyes on him. He couldn't deal with that. It was only going to turn into another tidal wave of stress. He was already head deep in his own issues at the moment, so there was really no need to add on another burden. Even if it did seem rather pointless to give it thought.
So he slipped on his coat and then his gloves – with some difficulty. Even after three months of rehabilitation, it was still tricky to get a handle on the prosthetic. It really didn't matter if it was the best in cutting edge technology. Everyone needed time to get use to the new technology. Though, for Allen, he just tackled the issue head on. Within the course of several months, he almost mastered the new limb. Almost. There was still a few things that he had trouble with, which required specific muscles to work with the artificial limb. Still, couldn't ignore the fact that he had the fastest recovery rate when it came to adapting to the new limb.
Not to mention, it look better than the old arm he once had. The old scars from the past wasn't something he enjoyed looking at. Though, he couldn't help but miss it at times. It was like a part of him went missing... or just got blown up, if you want to look at the facts.
Shaking the thoughts out of his mind, Allen then glanced down at the familiar orange scarf. Its as though the dark thoughts couldn't stop flooding in. He honestly didn't know why he took the darn thing with him. It wasn't like he was going to see Lavi today. Then again, his stuff was all over at the flat, which was upsetting enough as it is.
Wrapping the offensive object around his neck, Allen gave it a whiff. He couldn't help but laugh internally. It still smelt of that darn redhead. The odor of Oxford's library clung on, just like it always did. But it wasn't strong enough to overpower the natural scent of sandalwood and Lavi's natural musky scent.
"Leaving so soon?" Lenalee broke his line of thought. She has yet to finish her tea.
"Yeah. I need to speak with General Lvellie about my possible discharge and such." God he hated that man. Just saying the name cause Allen to cringe.
"I thought that whole mess was squared away." she puffed out her cheeks in annoyance, "Really, haven't you done enough as it is for our country?"
"Nope. They weren't so... inclined on letting me go. Especially with the positive results I'm holding with..." He raised his left arm to emphasize the point. "Either way, I can't do much. Even on the field..."
Placing a hand on Allen's shoulder, "Go. Get it squared off. You deserve a break from that sort of hell."
Flashing a smile, "I will." clasping a hand over Lenalee's, "Thank you for everything."
"Don't mention it. We're friends, its what we do." and she flashed a smile. "Oh! And if you see Link, tell him I said hi. The same goes for my brother as well!"
Laughing, Allen shook his head. "Should I make sure Yuu doesn't get wind of that, while I'm at it?"
The woman buried her face into her hands, "Urgh... Don't remind me of that. I swear, I'm still going through hell dealing with that husband of mines."
Laughing, "Well, tell that husband of yours I said hi. As well as your pretty daughter. I swear, that Lifen is the most adorable thing I saw, even if she does sport Yuu's scowl."
"You're still here?! Shoo! Off with you!" though she couldn't stop the laughing. "Git with you. Make sure to tell me the updates on your discharge. We'll have a party or something like that."
Nodding, "Well, cheerio then~" Allen flashed a brilliant smile.
Stepping out into London's dreary weather, Allen couldn't help but shudder. Even though autumn was around the corner, Allen wasn't adjusting well to the drastic change of weather. He was still use to the desert heat the Middle East offered. It wasn't pleasant and most of the time Allen wanted nothing more but to be back in his home country and enjoy the wet weather. But now... he was missing out on the dry, scorching heat the foreign lands offered.
Shaking the thoughts out yet again, Lavi's scarf was tightened around his neck. Marching off to his car, Allen frowned as his thoughts continued to reflect back to the recent weeks. There was no need to think on the past. Thinking on it only meant that Allen had to dwell on things. Recent or old, he didn't really want to dwell much on it.
If only it was that easy.
The drive to base was fairly easy. All he had to do was head to Windsor Castle and enter the Victoria Barracks. Which wasn't that far off from the cafe he met his friend at. Flashing the identification cards at the gate, Allen went through the usual security check ups. He might be Major of the 5th Regiment of Black Order Special Operations, but that didn't excuse him from breaking protocol. Course, he could always pull rank, considering that he was still under active status.
The thought was quickly wiped away as Allen was given the go to head in, with the usual salutes and a union of "Major Walker" was heard. Normally hearing the title would bring some sort of pride, but now... Best not think on it. With the car parked and a bag snagged from the back, Allen made his way inside the instillation. Though a stop was needed at the loo, just so he could change into uniform first. He really dislike walking in the middle of London in his finest pins and ribbons. There was no real need to advertise himself as the Tommy Atkins he was.
"My, my. Isn't it Major Walker himself." a light drawl was heard from behind.
Allen raised a brow at the mirror as he stared at the Portuguese man in the reflection. He just managed to freshen up and get into his red and black uniform. The special uniform that only those in the Black Order unit wore. Letting a smile grace his lips, "Good afternoon, Lieutenant General Mikk." Never once did Allen's right hand stop its task at fastening the ribbon rack.
The faucet next to Allen was turned on, "I see you're getting ready for your meeting with General Lvellie."
"That I am, Sir." Frowning at the reflection, Allen took notice that the rack was off to the side. Just a bit off. Holding in his frustrations, he worked on readjusting the ribbon rack. "Will you be present at the meeting?"
"That I will, along with General Millennium." That caught Allen's attention.
"The Noah Infantry Regiment General would be present in Black Order Special Operations' meeting?" he couldn't help but be amused.
"Obviously, considering that both divisions are working on Operation Crown Clown."
"Ah. True, true." There was a pause as Allen admired his work. He certainly can clean up rather well with one hand. "I take it that Major General Lee would be dragged in by Lieutenant Colonel Wenhamm at the last moment."
The man beside him laugh, drying off his hand with paper towels. "I don't understand how someone as lazy as the Sister-Complex-General could still be in active duty. He's always complaining and trying to dodge paperwork. Then again, he does make sure your men are properly equipped and prepared when out in the field."
"Shhh. General Mikk, you should know better than to say SCG around these here parts." the playful grin never left his lips. Tucking his cover(hat) underneath his left arm, Allen then pivoted on the balls of his feet. Facing the other man, "I should be going, or else I'll be chewed out by General Lvellie. I'll see you at the meeting, Lieutenant General Mikk."
"I'll see you there, Major. Oh, and good luck with Hitler." The pair shared a laugh at that one. No one could get over the fact that there was a Hitler look-a-like within the Royal Armed Forces. That man really had to get rid of the mustache one of these days. That or get laid.
The meeting itself was uneventful and very dull. It was just a pull on politics and trying to keep a seat filled in. Then again, it was hard to find someone as capable and reliable as Allen was. The seat of being Major in the Black Order Spec Ops wasn't something to laugh at. It required the toughest and bravest to be filled in. Not the meanest mind you. If that was the case, then you'd have cases like Staff Sergeant Bolic transferring from Noah Infantry over to Black Order to start training for officer. That, luckily, was never going to happen. The Staff Sergeant couldn't get past the psychological requirements for the training anyway.
They needed an intelligent person like the Major so that operations could be overseen and lead. Granted, not much action is being seen when you got someone in the Major rank. Unless its highly classified and required special skill sets. In this case, it was the special Operation Crown Clown that Allen had to deal with.
The said operation that lead to a missing arm and almost ripping his body in half. The nerve damage along the right side of his chest was a great burden. But not as great as the fact that he was missing a whole darn lung. It was certain that Allen wouldn't be hanging around a pool side in a pair of trunks. This sort of scar isn't a very pretty sight.
There was talk of transferring Allen into Noah Infantry. General Lvellie wasn't going to bend so easily on that idea. Even with General Millennium there with his silver tongue. Thankfully Major General Lee was there to give a few pointers. Well, more like a whole lot of them. Honestly, Allen declined, even if there was an offering of given a promotion. Sure, a Lieutenant Colonel's pay does seem nice, but... Allen was just too tired. Plus he was would be going from infantry officer to a paper pusher. God, that was as depressing as loosing his left arm.
Most of the time Allen's mind wandered as he listened with half an ear to the arguments between the higher ups. This really shouldn't be happening in the first place, but it couldn't be help. So instead he thought back on the other nights with Lavi.
Lavi... He certainly gets on his mind a lot.
It was just a normal day, two weeks ago. Nothing much happened that day. Allen was busy taking care of Timcanpy. The golden hair child that was left in his care thanks to his useless Guardian, Cross Marian. Really, it was just pathetic that the man couldn't even take care of a child. His own child on top of that. But then again, it shouldn't be surprising since the man was known to be a notorious drunk and a man-whore... among other things.
Allen just put the child to bed for an afternoon nap when his lover drop by. As usual they'd greet each other with a kiss and a smile. There was teasing on both sides and much comfort to be shared. Well as much comfort that could be shared. Both parties were often busy with their careers. Allen with his involvement in the current war and then Lavi, dealing with his family name and responsibility to the oldest Universities here in Britain, aka Oxford University.
It was a difficult relationship to maintain. Not because the status of sexual orientation mind you. It was more of the fact that Allen was often overseas, in dangerous situations and keeping the country safe from the modern world of terror. That always placed a lot of stress on Lavi. Allen knew that but there was nothing he could do to leave his position – at least till recently.
You see, when they first met was when Allen was on leave in Italy. Allen just recently was promoted from Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant. It was something straight out of a fairy tale. Love at first sight you might have said. Right in the middle of a gay bar on top of that, which was amusing. Allen's current date had ditch him that night. It wasn't that bad, especially when it lead to a sexy fling with a mysterious eye-patch wearing redhead. After that it turned into a week of shagging and sightseeing.
They didn't meet again till two weeks later when Allen was coming to an end to his leave. He was just visiting his friends over at the University. Lenalee was in her third year dating his comrade at arms, Yuu Kanda. It was a mistake or maybe fate was playing with the strings, but Allen was certainly more than shocked to meet Lavi in a classroom at Oxford University, teasing and joking with the couple. Apparently they knew each other. With some pushing on Lenalee's side, they were hanging out again.
It didn't take long for them to get serious. Normally someone would think twice than to start a relationship with an active service man. Especially when they're in special forces. It often cause a lot of doubt for Allen, but in the end he was grateful for how loyal the redhead was. It really touched his heart.
When Allen first lost his arm, no notice was given to Lavi. This was because his next of kin was his old guardian, Cross Marian. So no word was given till two weeks later – through Lenalee. She got the news earliest only because Howard Link mentioned it to her in passing. Apparently Cross never thought to spread the news. Most likely was drunk when the news was received in the first place.
Anyway, this resulted in arguments. Sure, Lavi didn't argue at first when Allen got out of the hospital, but it was obvious there was much anger and resentment. It was only a misunderstanding really. However with Allen trying to get over his private issues with the situation and the classified information of the mission, it really didn't go that well. He kept quiet and secluded. If anything, it sent out wrong signals. This was something that Allen realized the other day.
Actually, getting back to that day. Lavi's request was rather simple. Though the approach to it could have been handled better.
"Allen... I wanted to talk about something with you." That's how the redhead started it.
During the time, Allen really didn't give it much thought. He just glanced over, "Hrm? What about?" and then went back to what he was doing; checking on Timcanpy's homework. The young child had a habit of hiding away from work, just like his father.
"I think we should go on a break."
At those words, Allen just stared at the papers in front of him. Not read. Just stare. All he could remember was... why? Why would Lavi want that now?
"I just think you need the space honestly. Plus, we really don't talk much like we use to. It gets really frustrating when it seems like I'm putting more effort into this relationship, ya know. Not that I don't understand or anything like that. But... its been putting a strain, ya know."
"Its been putting a strain..." Allen repeated softly, letting the words roll off his tongue. He was unsure of the taste in his mouth. It was... a displeasing thing to taste.
"..." there was a sigh, "Yeah. I think we're just hurting each other without knowing it." There was a pause. Allen thought that Lavi was pointing fingers at him, stating that it was his fault that it wasn't going right. Which was true, to a point. "So I'm thinking we should have a break. For about a month, just to get our shit together. Not to mention I'll be busy with my Doctorates and such. What you think about that?"
What he thought about that? Allen really couldn't think. Maybe it was shock of the fact that it being placed on the table. Then again, Allen never had good experiences with 'breaks.' It usually meant that there was no way of coming back.
The smile he given Lavi was painful. It cracked at the edges and was obviously fake. Allen himself knew he could give out better smiles than this one. Yet, he couldn't improve it at all. "I think you're right. I'll be busy as well. Rehab, higher-ups wanting my attention and I got to take care of Tim. Actually, I have to finish going over his homework before I get the little bugger up. I promised I'd take him to the park."
Allen didn't bother to look back at Lavi. He just went back to reading the childish scrawl on the papers. "Just drop when you want to come over and pick up your stuff. You can leave it here if needed, but just be sure to drop a call" It was a low blow. Mainly cause Lavi never had to call before hand in order to come over. On top of that, telling him to pick up his stuff when he's ready? Its like saying that he already given up. Not that he has. Oh no. Its just... at the very moment, there wasn't anything to be said.
"...alker, are you okay with these terms?"
Blinking some, Allen glanced down at the paper at hand. That was definitely not Lavi's response to his dismissal the other week. "I'm sorry, I spaced out. The medication I'm on has me getting a bit air-headed." Allen said lightly as he rubbed the back of his neck. He really shouldn't be so easy going with the higher-ups, but then again, it couldn't be help. Not like it was a lie either. They knew the heavy dose of medications could even make the toughest soldiers sway in dizziness.
General Millennium just laughed as General Lvellie turn red. "I was saying, Major Walker, that if you're okay with the terms. You are aware of the terms, correct?"
"No need to be so harsh General Lvellie." It was Major General Lee who sent a disapproving look toward the Hitler look-a-like.
So, putting on a kind smile, Allen then nodded. "Yes, I am aware of the terms General Lvellie. As stated, I am placed on a medical leave for the next six months. When I return, the medical board will re-open the case and see to it if I am fit for service in the Black Order Special Forces. However, I am still required to report in, twice a week, for physical therapy, training and other miscellaneous medical tests and the sorts. Unless stated otherwise by both my Commanding Officer – Brigadier Yeegar – and the Medical Board. During this time, I will also groom the next candidate for my position, since I will not be able to take on an Active role. That is if I am fit for service in the future, or not. I think that sums it all up. Unless I am missed something?"
"Just the little bit on the adjustment to your salary during your leave status." Lieutenant General Mikk said smoothly. "And, to remember that even if you're not fit for serve with the Black Order Special Forces, you still have a position open with either the Noah Regiments or with the Grenadier Guards. Unless the medical board grants medical discharge."
It didn't take long after that for the meeting to come to an end. Sure there was talk and comments about the mission reports and salary adjustments. It wasn't something that bothered Allen all too much. If needed, he could always gamble for extra money – or take on a few odd jobs. Gambling always looks good though. Not that Allen had a gambling problem... maybe... kinda... he wasn't going to admit to it. Nope! He was fine!
Once the papers were signed off, Allen just went on his way to say hello to a few comrades and making sure that he was open for contact to those that will be stationed there at Windsor Castle. Files were also picked up. It was only a handful, but Allen wasn't going to be lazing about when he could start slimming the list of those currently in Black Order that could be a possible candidate.
It wasn't till Allen was strolling through the parking lot when Captain Link came around. The blond was jogging in order to catch up with his superior. "Major Walker!"
Glancing over his shoulder, Allen raised a brow. "Yes Captain?"
The man executed a sharp salute, even though it wasn't needed. "I just finished my rotation and I was wondering if I could ask a favor. If it isn't too much to ask, Sir."
Allen rolled his eyes, "Relax." was all he said and then nods. "And sure. What's up Link?" Since it was a personal thing, Allen threw out the formalities. There was only so much titles and sir's he could take on in the course of a whole afternoon.
The blond man still look uncertain whenever Allen told him to relax. Link, being a military brat, always held his military standards to its highest. But he knew better than to argue with Allen. Even at the most serious of meetings, the young man had a habit of treating those in the lesser ranks as equals. "Yes, I was wondering if you were heading toward Croydon by any chance."
Nodding, Allen then turned and resume his stroll back to the car. "Yes actually. My flat is there. Come on then, best we get going. I have to pick up Tim first though, if you don't mind."
"Not at all. Thank you." Link fell in line behind Allen, "Sergeant Gill is still working on my car, sadly."
"Really now? You're having Gill do civilian work?"
"You make it sound like a bad thing." was the stiff reply. "I rather pay a comrade than some bloody idiot that doesn't know the difference between a wrench from a ratchet. Its hard to find a respectable mechanic these days."
Laughing at this, keys were pulled out. "With that sort of attitude, of course it would be hard. But I know this bloke in Bromley. Just in the Anerley area, which isn't hard to get too. Remind me later to give you the number and address." With the doors unlocked, Allen wasted no time in getting in.
The ride was fairly quiet. Granted, the only on-going noise being made was the light platter of rain against the vehicle. Once more Allen was missing the dry weather. Something he made a comment about. Link just gave the Major an odd look at that one. Apparently the fellow English-man of German ancestry had to disagree. There was nothing like good old fashion London weather. Allen had to agree with that. There really wasn't anything like London weather. He was just a bit iffy on the fact if it was good or not.
Picking up Timcanpy from school was eventful. Many of the mothers couldn't help but send disgruntled looks at Allen. It was as though they thought the man came around to spread the word of military recruitment. This could have been the case if Tim was in Secondary School. The little guy was in primary, so there wasn't any need to advertise the benefits of a military life. The children, unlike their mothers, were actually overjoyed to see such a sharp looking individual on their grounds. Even Tim couldn't help but boast about how his Big Brother Allen being the coolest man to walk the earth.
It took several minutes to actually get away from the crowd. With all the children asking questions along with several of the teachers inquiring a few things, it can get a bit hectic. And you'd think people would want to get out of the rain as soon as possible instead of talking to some fancy looking soldier.
"Tim, make sure to say hello to Link." was said as they got into the car. "Sorry about that, apparently everyone wanted a piece of me. I swear, I feel like a slab of meat now."
"Hiya Mister!" the bubble of joy climb into the back, grinning that ever cheeky grin of his.
"Its hello Tim"
"Oh. Righto! Hello there Mister!" there was a pause and then, "Link!" was added. The said man couldn't help but chuckle at that one.
"No worry about that, Major." Link laughed as he peered over at the curly blond haired child. "You're the infamous Timcanpy, aren't you?"
The child flashed a wide grin, "Yes sir!" Maroon colored orbs then widened as Tim glanced over at Allen. "I'm infamous?!"
"Only when I'm around Tim. Remember to fasten your seat belt."
"Yes Mum."
Shooting the snickering Link a glare, Allen shifted the gears and went on with his drive. "Laugh it up Captain. Remember, I'm your current ride in this horrid weather."
Coughing into his fist for a moment, "I don't know what you're talking about Major."
The ride continued after that. Tim's filled up the air with many questions. It was obvious the little guy was Cross' kid, especially when he would ask the most simplest of questions and was never pleased with the answer. Unless you were in his circle of family. Something Link was catching on fairly quick.
"If you dislike my answers so much, why not pester Walker about them all?" Link grumbled out as he gave the child a mock glare.
"Why would I do that?" the child flashed a smug look.
"He is your caretaker, is he not? Plus, you seem more pleased with his answers more than mine."
"But you look more like a dirty bastard than Big Brother does!"
"Excuse me?!" "Tim, language!" Both men exclaimed at once.
"Awhhh! But the Old Man tells me that I should always give dirty bastards a hard time!"
"Language." Allen repeated sternly. "And what did I tell you about listening to Cross?"
"Umm..." there was a pause as the child actually thought on this. "Old Man is a drunken bastard and we should listen to drunken bastards?"
"..." Allen tightened his grip onto the steering wheel, "Are you sure that is what I told you, Tim? Think hard on that, or else you'll be surrounded by those nasty stray cats in the back alley."
"Whaaa?! Noooo! Not the cats! I hate those things!" the child wailed. "It was Lavi! Lavi told me that you said that so that it was okay to say that all because Lavi said that you said so!"
"Lavi?" Link raised a brow as he glanced at his superior officer. "You actually leave this child with that obnoxious fellow?"
"Lavi isn't that bad." Allen said quickly. It was sad that he was so quick to protect Lavi's name, even though they haven't seen each other for almost three weeks. "And Tim, don't you be cussing anymore. Even if Lavi said something, you shouldn't be picking up his bad habits."
"Awwhh. Why can't I cuss and everyone else is allowed too?"
"When you grow older, supporting your own home and family, you're then entitled to cuss all you want. But for now, you're living with me and I will not tolerate you to speak in such a manner. Also, women don't like to hear such crude language. Don't you want a pretty girlfriend?"
"Yeah! I want a pretty girlfriend!"
The adults laughed at that one. Who would have thought that such a young lad would taken an interest in women already. But once more, it was to be expected out of Cross Marian's kid.
"Oh, just turn on the corner and I can get out. Thank you once more for this Major."
"You do know that I am currently on leave for the next six months, right?" flashing Link a grin as he parked the car. By then the rain stop, but the clouds still blocked the late afternoon sun. "Its just Allen for now on."
"... You couldn't say something earlier, could you Walker?"
"Well, I really didn't notice till now." rubbing at the back of his neck, "Oh yeah! I almost forgot. Lenalee said hello. Plus, don't forget to call me so I can give you that mechanic's number."
Link shook his head and sighed. "I still don't get how you managed to become my superior when you're Four years my junior." Exiting the vehicle, Link then peered back in to give Timcanpy a stern look. "And you, little sir. You be good to your big brother and watch your language. Especially in the company of a woman."
"That I will, Mister Two-Dots!"
"... Are you sure this isn't Lavi's child?" Link questioned drily.
"Oh. I am certain. Trust me on that one." Allen chuckled as he reached over to ruffle up Timcanpy's curls. "And you. Say his name properly. There's no need for such crude nicknames."
"Awwwhh, but Allen. He doesn't look like a Link, unless you connect the dots!"
Allen had to bit down onto his prosthetic hand in order to stop laughing. Link on the other hand just released a rather flustered huff of annoyance.
"I swear..." was grumbled out as Link straightened his form. "Talking about the obnoxious redhead, is that him over there with Private Chomesuke?"
"Huh?" Allen blinked as he then peered across the street.
Indeed, there was the object of Allen's affections, walking along side the cute redheaded female. The woman herself wasn't in uniform, but it wasn't hard to figure out who she was. Especially since she was often seen wearing that yellow dolphin pin in her hair. Normally, this wouldn't bother Allen, if it wasn't for the fact that the woman was clinging onto Lavi's arm.
"What you know... It is Lavi with Private Chomesuke..." Allen trailed off, not once noticing that his grip tightened on the steering wheel. He couldn't help but narrow his eyes at the sight before him.
"Normally I am not one to ask this, but... Did you two break it off or something?"
"... We're on break." Allen spat the words out as he continued to watch the scene. He felt sick to the stomach.
Even though they couldn't hear what was being said between the pair, it wasn't hard to assume what was going on. Especially when the woman leaned up to give Lavi a peck on the corner of his lips before entering an establishment. A diner to be specific.
Rage boiled through his veins, however Allen made no move to make any sort of confrontation. Instead he just averted his gaze and stared at the road ahead. Now that he thought on it, the sidearm he carried would do wonders at the moment. But that would mean getting court marshaled.
"Well, that certainly isn't how one acts during a break." Link drawled out with much distaste. "I'll make sure that she's scrubbing the men's loo in the south west wing tonight."
"Make sure she also posts guard after that as well."
"Oh, that's evil. A night of scrubbing the loos only to look forward to standing in front of the gate in this horrid weather for an additional 10 hours? She should also take care of my paperwork after all of that, as well."
"Oh no no no. She needs proper rest of at least half an hours worth."
"I'll see to it that is what to be expected when she returns to the barracks then." The pair shared a laugh at that one. It was good to be an Officer at times. Could always abuse your power whenever you please. "Well, I better get going before my fiance starts worrying. Thank you once more for the ride, Walker."
"Don't mention it. Also, do tell the missis that I send my salutations!"
With the door shut close, Allen didn't hesitate to speed down road, if only for a moment. He really couldn't help but slip into a bit of recklessness. There was no need to be there any longer, especially when witnessing Lavi on a date with one of his subordinates. Granted, Private Chomesuke wasn't in the Black Order, but she was still under his command when it came to personnel that dealt with support and office administration.
Thankfully Link was there to deliver a punishment... A very harsh punishment. The poor girl probably didn't know what she walked into. Maybe Allen was over reacting.
Maybe Allen was being a bit too soft...
"Hey, Big Bro..."
"What's up Tim?"
"Lavi is a big dirty idiot for leaving you like that." Allen couldn't help but smile. Glancing at the rear mirror, he watched as Tim puff out his cheeks and glare out the window. "A really big dirty idiot! And a wanker too!"
"Tim, language!" Allen laughed out.
You know, you can learn many things from a child. Their honesty can break an adult's reality with a few simple words. In this case, Tim did speak the truth. Lavi was a big dirty idiotic wanker. A big dirty idiotic wanker that stole his heart only to twist it in the most abusive way ever. It really did hurt. Gun shot wounds felt better than this.
Heck, even the laughter sounded hollow to his ears as Allen tried to scold his baby step brother. At first he didn't notice, but a second later Allen had to question why Tim was being so obedient. Did Tim pick up on the dead tone in his laugh? Or maybe he saw the tears that he couldn't stop from flowing. Or, it could be the simple fact that Allen really lost something precious that day.
"Are you going to fight for yourself?"
"Depends Tim... Now, how do you feel about having dango tonight?" It really did depend on many things. But for now there was someone that Allen had to take care of. There really wasn't time to get sad.
"Can I have pizza with that?"
"Sure thing!"
"And icecream!?"
"Yeah!"
"And chocolate fudge cake! I want chocolate fudge cake!"
"Sure, sure. We can have all of that for dinner tonight – s'long as you do your homework."
"Awh! No fair! I hate homework!"
A/N: I'm unsure if this should be a one-shot. Drop a review in the box bellow. If you want more chapters, gotta motivate me somehow. :D