Notes: GUESS WHO'S BACK! (And committed 100 percent to finishing this thing!)
All for the Love of Maple Syrup
Christmas Blues
December 23, 2011
Matthew stared at the screen of whiteness beyond his window, for once not happy with the great amount of snow falling. He knew it was a bad idea to stay a few extra days in America. Especially since "a few extra days" had turned into "lets go to Canada two days before Christmas because the roads keep icing" and there they were, stuck at the apartment in the middle of a blizzard when they should have been well on their way to the Great White North.
"Bro, stop sulking by the window and come help us!" Alfred cajoled from across the room, where he was sitting with half-tangled lights strung up across his body, flickering in a seizure-inducing pattern. Arthur was next to him, trying his best to ignore him as he rifled through a box of decorations left over from when he and his brothers put up things around their own rooms. Scotty, Ioan, and Faolan were sitting in a half circle on the other side of Alfred, slowing stringing more lights onto the blond as they untangled them.
They'd locked the cats up in Alfred's room several hours before, since they kept attacking the strings of lights and the tinsel. Americat had persistently yowled and scratched at the door before giving up and finding something else to do. Matthew suspected that "something else" involved pulling clothing out of drawers and trying to climb the curtains. Again.
Ioan looked up from his lights, brushing his dark hair away from his green eyes as he turned them onto Matthew. "We could use your help turning Alfred into a Christmas tree."
Scotty grinned around his unlit cigarette. "I think we should dye his hair green."
"Dude, that'd be sweet! Can we do that?" Alfred asked.
Arthur scoffed as he withdrew an old candy cane from the box. He wrinkled his nose and dropped it into the garbage can next to him. "Don't be ridiculous, Alfred. First of all, you would look horrendous and there is no way I will be seen in public with you if you have green hair. Second of all, where would you even get green dye? If you hadn't noticed, there is a blizzard raging outside. I doubt there is any store open."
"I figured we could send Mattie. He's Canadian. He can handle it," Alfred said.
Matthew rolled his eyes and stood up. He'd had enough of watching the snow. "I'm not stupid enough to go out into an actual blizzard, Alfred."
"You're not going to sulk for all of Christmas, are you?" Alfred asked. "You're just as much to blame for us being here as I am!"
Matthew stared at him for a moment and then started to make his way to the door, stepping carefully around everything littering the floor. He wasn't in the mood to talk to his twin.
Scotty began hanging ornaments from Alfred's glasses, making them slide down the American's nose. Foalan and Ioan followed suit, though they hooked theirs onto the lights. Arthur rolled his eyes at the four of them.
"Where're you going, Matt?" Ioan asked.
"Visiting Carlos," Matthew murmured as he finally made it to the door. "I'll be back later."
"Okay. Have… fun." Ioan frowned when Matthew left before he had a chance to finish speaking. "Is Matt okay? I mean, besides the obvious."
"He's just sulking," Alfred said dismissively, catching an ornament as it swung free of his glasses. He fixed the wire and then hung it back.
Arthur frowned. "You shouldn't brush aside your brothers feelings so easily. I know you're happy to be staying here for the holidays, and believe me when I say the rest of us are also pleased, but Matthew has been looking forward to going home for weeks. Think about how you'd feel if something you really want to do was suddenly called off due to weather. For Gods sake, Alfred I know you have a brain, if you would only use it!" He huffed and stood up. "Now if you'll excuse me, I think I'll go have a chat with the poor lad. God knows he needs someone sensible to talk to."
"No, wait! I'll do it!" Ioan volunteered, shoving his box of ornaments into Scotty's arms. The redhead glared at him, but he ignored it, jumping to his feet instead. "You get to have all the talks you want with Alfred that you want, but I called Mattie. So you sit your arse back down, little bro!" He shoved Arthur down into Alfred before fleeing out the door, giggling like a child.
Sometimes it was hard to believe he was the eldest Kirkland brother.
.
.
"Goin' to visit Carlos, eh?" Ioan asked, raising a dark eyebrow when he came across Matthew sitting on the stairs between the second and third floors. Even though the Canadian made no move to speak, or even that he'd noticed Ioan's approach, the brunet kept speaking. "Nah, it's alright. I get it. Kind of hard to think when there's a room full of talkative, lively people."
Matthew sighed heavily. "If you know I want to be alone, then why are you here?"
"Just wantin' to see if you wanna talk," Ioan said.
"I don't."
"Pity. Because I do. " Without missing a beat, Ioan sat down next to Matthew and stretched out his long legs. "Look, I know you were looking forward to going home for the holidays. I get it. Really. But-"
"Ioan, I really don't want to talk," Matthew stated, more firmly than before. He started to stand, but Ioan caught his wrist, grasping it just tightly enough to show Matthew he was being serious.
"No. Sit. Honestly, whoever said Alfred was the more difficult and hardheaded twin has never tried to talk to you." He huffed softly, releasing Matthew's wrist once he was sure the boy wasn't going anywhere. "You probably think Alfred's being insensitive about this and I guess he is, in a way, but think about this for a moment - his friends, his whole life is here in America. Of course he's going to be happy about getting to stay. And I think you should be happy too." He lowered his voice and rested a hand on Matthew's knee. "Matt, this is the last year you'll be down here with us. I mean, I know you'll pop in to visit Al every now and then, but it won't be the same. I think it'd be great if you could enjoy the festivities with the rest of us. And hey, who knows, maybe the roads'll clear right up after Christmas and you can pay a quick trip home before the new semester begins!"
"That'd be a miracle…" Matthew muttered.
Ioan grinned. "Yeah. A Christmas Miracle.'
Matthew groaned at the bad joke and was unable to stop his lips from curving up into a small smile. "That's horrible. Stop talking."
"No way! I've got a whole sleigh full of really terrible Christmas jokes and puns and this'll be the year I use them all!" Ioan said happily, slinging an arm around Matthew's shoulders. "So prepare yourself! This'll be a Christmas you'll never forget!"
Matthew chuckled. "That's for sure."
.
Gilbert Beilschmidt to Matthew Williams
Miss you, Birdie
December 23, 2011 - 7:39 pm via mobile web · Comment · Like
Alfred F. Jones: wow that doesn't sound gay all
7:58 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones: that was sarcasm btw
7:58 pm · Like
Gilbert Beilschmidt : Fuck off, Jones. This is all your fault!
8:00 pm via mobile web · Like
Matthew Williams : No, don't blame him. I'm just as much at fault, Gil.
8:03 pm via mobile web · Like
.
Text message
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Miss you too
December 23, 2011 - 8:05 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Christmas won't be nearly as awesome without you.
8:13 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Damn straight
8:14 pm · Reply
December 24, 2011
After his talk with Ioan, Matthew did his best to look on the bright side of the situation and not mope so much. He was surprised by how much fun it could be when everyone in the building left their doors opened or unlocked so everyone could come and go as they pleased, leaving behind gifts or cute decorations or notes. There also seemed to be a bit of a Secret Santa project going on.
However, there was one thing that made Matthew cringe. And that was the sheer amount of mistletoe that Francis and Feliciano had decided to hang up everywhere.
And by everywhere, he meant everywhere .
No doorway or room was safe. It was literally impossible to walk through the building without going under one of the troublesome plants.
So naturally, Matthew took to hiding out in his room after collecting a bag of Cheetos, a box of his favorite cereal, and several bottles of water so he wouldn't have to venture out into the danger zone often. He'd declared his room a mistletoe-free zone back when he first learned what Francis was up to and so far they'd stuck to that rule. With any luck, he wouldn't have to threaten anyone with his hockey stick to keep it that way.
From his room, he was at a perfect vantage from which to watch the goings-on in the living room. That meant he was able to see every awkward encounter that happened beneath the mistletoe, which looked like it was flashing different colors thanks to the strings of lights hung across the ceiling and down the walls. (Scotty and Alfred had gotten a little overzealous during their decorating. Eggnog may have been involved.)
So far, Alfred had gotten caught under it three times with two people. Once with a profusely blushing Arthur and twice with a not-at-all-bashful Yong Soo. (In fact, Matthew was almost certain that the Korean teen was trying his damnedest to catch as many people as he could under the parasitic plant.) Kiku had proven to have ninja-like skills when it came to ducking out of a kiss. And, aside from the odd shuffle he and Scotty did, Francis welcomed every encounter with open arms.
Matthew had been lucky enough to only be caught once, and it was with Ivan. The two bumped noses as they brushed lips, unable to do much more as they both started laughing, immediately reminded of how incompatible they were in a romantic sense. (During the short period of time in which they'd dated, they'd never done much more than snuggle - they were like the masters of snuggling - and everything else ended up being extremely awkward. If they weren't bumping noses or elbowing one another in the ribs or accidentally head butting one another, then they were making inappropriate jokes or sharing lengthy moments of silence which were just as uncomfortable as they were quiet.)
The encounter had been more than enough for him, and it was after that when he decided staying in his room was the best plan of action.
His phone chimed his text alert and Matthew looked down to see he had a message from Gilbert.
.
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Goddamn lake effect bullshit
December 24, 2011 - 3:29 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Still snowing up there too, I take it.
3:30 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Ugh. Birdie, I know how much you like snow but this really fucking sucks
3:31 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
I'm sure it'll slow down soon. We just need to be patient.
3:32 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Yeah, I guess. It'd be better if I didn't have to drive in it
3:33 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Gilbert Beilschmidt you had better not be driving in the snow and texting at the same time
3:33 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
I'm not! Someone else is driving. If you can call it that…
3:34 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Do I even want to know what you are up to?
3:35 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Can't tell. It's a secret. Gotta run now Birdie, we're almost there!
3:36 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Almost where? Wait, "we" who?
3:36 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
You had better not be doing anything stupid
3:37 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
I'm too far away to bail you out of jail!
3:38 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
I'm serious, Gilbert!
3:39 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Why must you always think the worst of me?
3:42 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
I'm hurt. Really, I am.
3:43 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
To be fair, 9/10 times you won't tell me what you're doing because it's something that'll land you in trouble.
3:44 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Don't worry. This is perfectly legal! I think…
3:45 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Should I be sending a warning to Ludwig?
3:46 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Nah, he knows what we're doing. He's here with us!
3:47 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Did you seriously just call West?
3:50 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Do I have to remind you of the last time you told me Ludwig was with you?
3:51 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Oh. You remember that, huh.
3:51 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
It's not exactly something that's easily forgotten. But seriously, what are you guys doing? I couldn't even get Ludwig to tell me.
3:52 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
I told you. It's a secret.
3:53 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Hey. Do me a favor and look out your window. Tell me how much it's snowing.
3:54 pm · Reply
.
Matthew raised an eyebrow at the odd message. He knew what he was going to see - snow, snow, and more snow, falling thickly from the sky - but he got up to look anyway.
The first thing he noticed was that the flakes were no longer falling so heavily and were instead drifting down slowly. The second thing was that there was a horse-drawn sleigh on his street and a familiar trio slowly unloading a few bags. One of the people turned to look up at the building and spotted him in the window. The person grinned and gave Matthew a thumbs up.
Matthew's jaw dropped. "Oh sweet maple…" He stared in shock for a moment before he came to his senses. He tossed his phone back onto his bed and then unlocked and shoved open his window so he could yell at his ridiculous friends. "What the hell are you doing here?!"
Gilbert cackled loudly. "Visiting you, Birdie!"
"Yeah, I figured that much!" Matthew shouted back. "I meant - oh, never mind! What's with the sleigh?"
"Car got stuck in a ditch! Hey, how about you come down here and help us out!" Gilbert yelled.
"Matvey?"
Matthew turned his head so he could see Ivan, who was standing in his doorway with a puzzled expression on his face.
"Who are you talking to?" Ivan asked.
"My idiot of a best friend," Matthew replied with a sigh. He turned back to the window to yell to Gilbert that he'd be down in a minute before sliding it shut and locking it. "I'd better get down there." He reached for his coat and pulled it on, zipping it up before looking back at Ivan. Even though he knew it wouldn't be the best idea, he figured Ivan would still appreciate being asked. "Want to go down and greet them with me?"
Sure enough, Ivan smiled. "Am I allowed to push Beilschmidt in the snow?"
Matthew chuckled. "Sure. But only if he says something dumb. Or you could save your warfare for the snowball fight we'll probably have tonight."
Ivan perked up at the mention of a possible battle in the snow. "Can we be on the same team?"
"I dunno…" Matthew replied as he tugged on his gloves. His lips tugged up in a small smile. "We'd crush them."
"That's the best kind of fun!" Ivan said happily. "I'm going to get my coat. Meet me in the hall?"
Matthew nodded. He still needed to inform Alfred that they had guests, and that would probably take a minute or two. He let Ivan leave the room first and then cautiously followed, keeping a sharp eye out for mistletoe.
.
Gilbert Beilschmidt We arrived at Mattie's safe and sound!
December 24, 2011 - 3:56 pm via mobile web · Comment · Like
[ Katherine Williams , Shandar Patel , and 5 others like this]
Katherine Williams: I'm so glad to hear it! You kids have fun and stay safe on the drive home!
4:27 pm · Like
Kiku Honda posted 37 new photos – tagged 12 people
December 24, 2011 – 6:12 pm · Comment · Like
[Lars Peeters, Soren Khøler, and 27 others like this]
Francis B. : I'm especially fond of the ones where Matthew jumps on Alfred's back and shoves snow down his coat.
6:19 pm · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry : I think I have that on video! I'll post it later tonight.
6:21 pm via mobile web · Like
Soren Khøler: That looks like so much fun!
9:53 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones I'm cold and tired and if I get sick its all Matthew's fault
December 24, 2011 – 6:17 pm via mobile web · Comment · Like
Matthew Williams : You started it!
6:23 pm via mobile web · Like
Alfred F. Jones : You teamed up with Ivan! Which is totally cheating btw and not cool bro
6:24 pm via mobile web · Like
Matthew Williams : Not "cool", eh?
6:26 pm via mobile web · Like [ Ioan Kirkland likes this]
Roman Vargas became friends with Wilhelm Beilschmidt and Katherine Williams .
December 24, 2011 – 6:43 pm · Comment · Like
Roman Vargas to Wilhelm Beilschmidt
Spending time with your delightful sons! Why have you never told them about me? It's like you're ashamed of our friendship!
December 24, 2011 – 6:45 pm · Comment · Like
Wilhelm Beilschmidt : Please don't tell Gilbert anything weird.
9:20 pm · Like
.
Matthew couldn't help but begin to worry when it'd been three hours since he last saw or heard from Gilbert. It didn't matter that Ludwig was with him. Not even he could keep Gilbert out of trouble. Has Elizaveta been around and not running errands with Kiku, she probably would have told him not to worry. After all, things had been pretty quiet the whole time (aside from Yong Soo's rampage through their floor).
Alfred wasn't around to distract him either, as he'd been invited downstairs to join the Kirkland brothers and Francis for extra-alcoholic eggnog. All Matthew had was the cats, who'd been released from their confinement at long last. Naturally, the moment he sat on the couch, he found himself with a warm furry scarf in the form of Alfred's overweight cat. Minutes later, Catada jumped onto the couch and curled up on his stomach.
He sighed and turned on the TV, picking one of the many animated Christmas movies. He wouldn't be able to hear anything over the purring, so he might as well pick something he'd seen every single year.
Matthew was beginning to drift off to sleep when his phone buzzed in his pocket. He struggled to get it free without dislodging the cats and smiled when he was finally able to see it was a message from Elizaveta.
.
To: Matthew
From: Elizaveta
Kiku says to let Francis know we've found Roderich and are bringing him back home. We've tried calling him, but he's not answering.
9:33 pm · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
He's probably drunk and forgot about it. Arthur's brothers gathered all of the booze earlier and are testing to see which ones go best in eggnog.
9:38 pm · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
I didn't even know he'd gone out. He's always getting lost.
9:38 pm · Reply
To: Matthew
From: Elizaveta
Yeah, Kiku was telling me all about it. Hey, is Roderich always so stuck up?
9:40 pm · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
He can come across that way, but he's not too bad. Btw, I haven't seen Gil for 3 hours. I might have to call him...
9:42 pm · Reply
To: Matthew
From: Elizaveta
He's not back from pasta with Feliciano's family?
9:43 pm · Reply
To: Matthew
From: Elizaveta
I expected that from Ludwig, but not Gil.
9:43 pm · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
Please don't start trying to play matchmaker again. Gil told me all about how it went last time
9:45 pm · Reply
To: Matthew
From: Elizaveta
Don't you worry your pretty little head.
9:46 pm · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
Was that suppose to relieve my worry? Because it doesn't.
9:46 pm · Reply
.
Matthew groaned when Elizaveta didn't respond to his last message. After a minute or so of pondering what to do, he carefully removed Americat from around his neck and coerced Catada into vacating his lap. The cats grumpily slunk away to find a new space to nap.
There was one person who would gladly help him stop Elizaveta from going through with her plan.
.
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Heads up, Elizaveta's trying to play matchmaker again.
9:59 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Damn, not again. Who is it this time? Kiku? Maybe that's why she volunteered to go with him
10:03 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
I think she's trying to set up Ludwig with Feliciano.
10:04 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Seriously?
10:04 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
It's either Feliciano or Lovino, but I really doubt it's Lovino.
10:05 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
No fucking way. Pretty sure Lovi hates his guts
10:06 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
But uh Veta might be on the right track for once
10:06 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Even if she is, should we really let her interfere? I don't think Ludwig would like that. I know I wouldn't.
10:07 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
[picture]
Look how fucking cute is that
10:08 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Is Ludwig actually smiling?
10:09 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Yeah and its not because of all the awesome stories Roman's telling us. He and Vati knew each other, can you believe it? They did some traveling together "back in the day".
10:11 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
That's pretty cool. I can text you later so you can keep listening.
10:12 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Nah, tonio showed up and that was the end of story time. Too bad cuz we'd reached embarrassing stories about Lovi and Feli and I wanted to tell baby West stories.\
10:14 pm · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Don't forget you have an entire car ride home with him.
10:15 pm · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Good point. Foiling Veta's plans sound more fun anyway so i'm coming back down. Pretty sure they've convinced West to spend the night up here. If I distract them, I might be able to sneak away.
10:17 pm · Reply
.
While waiting for Gilbert, who was taking his sweet time getting back downstairs, Matthew sent a message to Alfred to see how things were going with the Kirkland's. He did feel a little bad for abandoning his twin to stay in the comfort of their rooms, but the last thing he wanted to do was spend the evening baby-sitting Francis and Scotty and trying to deal with whatever was going on between them.
.
To: Al
From: Matthew
Everything alright down there?
10:22 pm · Reply
To: Mattie
From: Alfred
Yup. I'm staying with Artie for the night
10:26 pm · Reply
To: Al
From: Matthew
Okay. Don't drink too much.
10:26 pm · Reply
To: Mattie
From: Alfred
I'm not. Can't say the same for every1 else though. Drunk carols w/scotty and ioan isn't as fun as I thought
10:27 pm · Reply
To: Mattie
From: Alfred
Also Francis
10:27 pm · Reply
To: Mattie
From: Alfred
So ioan speaks welsh? Sings welsh? This is weird bro
10:28 pm · Reply
To: Al
From: Matthew
You're the one who chose to go down there. Enjoy your multilingual Christmas carols.
10:30 pm · Reply
December 25, 2011
Alfred F. Jones MERRY X-MAS!
December 25, 2011 – 1:55 am via mobile web · Comment · Like
Matthew Williams : When everyone tries to kill u for screaming at 2 in the morning im not saving you
2:01 am via mobile web · like
Alfred F. Jones : I'm a hero Matt! Heroes don't need saving.
2:02 am via mobile web · like
.
To: West
From: Gilbert
Do we need to stage a rescue?
8:08 am · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Ludwig
I'm fine, Gilbert. I'll be down soon.
8:13 am · Reply
To: West
From: Gilbert
Ok. I guess we'll wait for you. Alfred's not back yet either.
8:15 am · Reply
To: West
From: Gilbert
Nevermind. He's back.
8:19 am · Reply
.
"Merry Christmas!" Alfred shouted as he threw open the door. He grinned at everyone sitting around the tree and reached up to quickly adjust his Santa hat.
"Merry Christmas," Matthew responded, a bit more quietly than his twin. There was a surprisingly playful glint in his eyes that most people would mistake for Christmas cheer. "You're just in time for the carols."
Alfred visibly flinched. "Ha ha, very funny, bro." He paused for a few long seconds, realizing there was no one in the room who would back him up if Matthew decided to start singing. While Elizaveta enjoyed teaming up with him for jokes, she was equally as likely to turn around and prank him. And it would be a hot day in winter before Gilbert helped him with anything.
He cleared his throat. "So are we going to open up presents or what? C'mon, lets do this!"
"We can't," Elizaveta spoke up. "Ludwig isn't back yet."
Taking a second look around made Alfred see they were, in fact, down one person. "Oh. Right. Where is he anyway?" He'd sort of assumed Ludwig had stepped away to go to the bathroom or make a phone call from the safety of Matthew's bedroom, but it seemed that wasn't the case.
"He spent the night upstairs at Feliciano's," Gilbert said, casting a sidelong glance at Elizaveta, who did nothing to hide her delight. "He's coming back down now."
Alfred was a bit confused about when the two of them had become such good friends. Feliciano and Ludwig just made such an odd pair in his eyes. He heaved an obnoxiously loud sigh before joining Elizaveta on the floor. As he stretched out his legs and wiggled his toes, a new thought occurred to him. "Hey, where's Americat and Catada?"
"Sleeping in my room," Matthew replied. "They tried to attack all of the presents as we sorted them into piles, so we had to lock them up."
"But you're done with that now, so we can let them out!" Alfred was back on his feet in a split second, running for the bedroom door to release his precious babies.
Americat dashed out of the room and made a beeline for his favorite placed to nap – on the television stand, right in front of the TV. Catada purred and rubbed against Alfred's legs before pawing at his pants. Alfred was more than happy to scoop up the loveable ball of fluff and carry him back to the others.
Gilbert and Matthew were talking to hushed voices when he returned to his space on the floor. He eyes the pair wearily, wondering what evil they were plotting. Whatever it was, he was sure it was nothing he wanted to be involved in. He considered striking up a conversation with Elizaveta, but she was dong something on her phone and he didn't want to interrupt.
Alfred spent the next five minutes playing with Catada.
Finally, Ludwig returned, looking remarkably put together for someone who unexpectedly spend the night elsewhere.
"Time for presents!" Gilbert gleefully announced, scooting over on the couch so he was squished right up against Matthew. "Come sit with us, West!"
Alfred was pretty sure Elizaveta was holding up her phone to take pictures of Gilbert and Matthew under the pretense of searching for a better signal. (It was so obviously fake. They got great cell service in their building.)
It was looking to be an even weirder Christmas than the last one. At least Alfred could always escape to hang out with Kiku, whose traditions allowed him to spend time with friends.
He watched Gilbert laugh and sling an arm across Matthew's shoulders in response to a question from Ludwig.
Yeah. Alfred was definitely spending the rest of the day eating pizza and playing video games with Kiku.
.
Matthew Williams to Katherine Williams
Merry Christmas from me and Alfred! Sorry we couldn't make it home this year!
December 25, 2011 – 9:47 am · Comment · Like
Katherine Williams : It's alright, sweetheart. You boys have a good time! Maybe you can visit during spring break?
10:01 am · Like
Matthew Williams : I'll try to convince Al, but I'm absolutely driving up for a few days.
10:04 am · Like ( Gilbert Beilschmidt and Lars Peeters like this)
Francis B. posted 11 photos
Take a look at the beautiful Christmas feast I have lovingly prepared for everyone!
December 25, 2011 – 3:27 pm · Comment · Like
( Antonio Fernandez Carriedo and Feliciano Vargas like this)
Alfred F. Jones Time for fireworks!
December 25, 2011 – 6:34 pm via mobile web · Comment · Like
Arthur Kirkland : It's a little early to start celebrating the new year.
6:37 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones : good thing theyre xmas fireworks! Now come to the roof
6:39 pm via mobile web · Like
.
Text Message
To: Al
From: Matthew
Not every holiday needs to be celebrated with fireworks.
6:35 pm · Reply
To: Mattie
From: Alfred
It's more fun this way. Now come to the roof. Bring everyone
6:37 pm · Reply
December 26, 2011
Lovino Vargas Someone's finally taken down all of the damn mistletoe. Now I can walk through the building without wondering if I'm about to be assaulted.
December 26, 2011 – 10:32 am · Comment · Like
( Matthew Williams, Yao Wang , and 2 others like this)
Im Yong Soo : Booooo!
11:06 am · Like
Gilbert Beilschmidt Officially staying in the US until after New Years!
December 26, 2011 – 1:14 pm · Comment · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry : What?! When did we decide this? I thought our plan was to leave once the roads clear and we can dig out my car!
2:56 pm via mobile web · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry : I'm not really mad, but don't make decisions for all of us.
2:58 pm via mobile web · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry : Also, shouldn't this sort of thing be up to the drivers?
3:01 pm via mobile web · Like
Ludwig Beilschmidt : I wouldn't be opposed to staying a few extra days.
3:23 pm via mobile web · Like ( Gilbert Beilschmidt likes this)
Gilbert Beilschmidt : I have the best baby bro!
3:37 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones Snowing again?!
December 26, 2011 – 2:20 pm · Comment · Like
Ivan Braginski : Sounds like the perfect time for another snowball fight!
2:27 pm · Like ( Matthew Williams likes this)
Alfred F. Jones : Hell no
2:30 pm · Like
Gilbert Beilschmidt : Hell yes! I call Birdie's team!
2:34 pm via mobile web · Like
Nikolai Christensen posted 5 pictures
Soren spent the day building a snowfort. He's very proud.
December 26, 2011 – 3:40 pm · Comment · Like
( Isak Christensen, Matthew Williams , and 5 others like this)
Gilbert Beilschmidt : Birdie, look! We should do this!
4:12 pm via mobile web · Like
Matthew Williams : I don't think we have the space to do that. Maybe next year. Or if it snows again during spring break.
4:44 pm · Like
December 27, 2011
Alfred F. Jones Enjoying a day out with my best buds!
December 26, 2011 – 9:10 am via mobile web · Comment · Like
( Matthew Williams likes this)
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Elizaveta wasn't sure how she ended up with her ear pressed to the door of Roderich's place, listening to the soothing sound of his piano playing. She didn't lnow much about classical music, but she could still tell he was good at it.
She would have been content to stand there for hours, except the buzzing of her phone in her pocket reminded her of the mission at hand. Namely, getting Ludwig and Feliciano to see that they were perfect for each other.
Elizaveta checked her phone and frowned when she saw five messages from Gilbert and three from Matthew. The two had been bizarrely interested in her company since Christmas Eve and it was starting to weird her out.
It'd been kind of nice at first. Flattering, if she had to be honest. She thought her complaints about being left out were finally being recognized.
Her phone buzzed again.
She reluctantly removed herself from Roderich's door and marched downstairs, phone clutched tightly in her hand. She needed to have a little talk with her friends.
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To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Veta's totally on to us
11:23 am · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
Yeah, I kind of figured. Maybe we should ease up a bit? Or recruit other people to help us? We don't have to tell them what's going on.
11:24 am · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
I have a better idea. Lets hook Veta up with someone
11:25 am · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
That sounds like an awful idea
11:25 am · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
You misspelled "awesome" there Birdie
11:26 am · Reply
To: Gilbert
From: Matthew
No, I didn't. Who would we even set her up with? You three will only be here for a few more days. And she already suspects we're up to something.
11:27 am · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Don't worry. I have a plan.
11:27 am · Reply
.
Elizaveta narrowed her eyes at them as they continued texting.
Honestly, boys were so dumb. Did they really think they were being clever? Anyone could see they were texting each other and paying no attention to her, despite the fact they'd both begged her to go out and get coffee at one of the local shops.
It was times like those when she wondered why she was friends with them. (It was because life would be much less interesting without them. And they weren't always so dumb. At least Matthew wasn't.)
Elizaveta sighed softly and pulled out her own phone.
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To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
Are things going any better on your side? Gil and Matt are unusually insistant that I spend time with them today.
11:31 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
Apologies, but I'm spending the day with Arthur and Alfred today. I haven't had time to enact any of the plan.
11:33 am · Reply
To: Kiku
From; Elizaveta
It's just so frustrating!
11:34 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
Have you seen the facebook post Feliciano made? There may not be anything we need to do after all.
11:35 am · Reply
To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
I haven't. I'll take a look now.
11:36 am · Reply
To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
Oh, how sweet! Maybe we should rework our plan. I don't think they'll need more than a few little helpful nudge or two. The real challenge will be making sure they continue talking to each other when we go home.
11:40 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
Yes, I agree. I have a book I could lay out on my coffee table to next time Ludwig comes over. If I leave the room, he may take a look at it while I'm away.
11:42 am · Reply
To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
Ludwig is quite fond of manuals and self-help books. Like they hold the answer to all of life's secrets. Feliciano though... a blunt approach might be better.
11:43 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
I'm not sure. I've noticed he typically goes running to ask the person if he's hearing the truth.
11:45 am · Reply
To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
Just leave it to me! Wanna meet up tonight and brainstorm a few more ideas?
11:46 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
Of course.
11:47 am · Reply
December 28, 2011
Matthew Williams Today I woke up to 23 missed calls and 10 texts from Al because SOMEONE locked him on the roof. AGAIN.
December 28, 2011 – 8:07 am · Comment · Like
( Ivan Braginski, Gilbert Beilschmidt , and 3 others like this)
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Text Message
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
Gil and I got locked on the roof while trying to get Al down. Could you come open the door for us?
8:21 am · Reply
To: Matt
From: Elizaveta
Sorry, I'm busy right now
8:27 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Matthew
So you're just going to let us sit out here in the freezing cold?
8:28 am · Reply
To: Matt
From: Elizaveta
Sorry, but I really can't get away right now. Is there anyone else you could ask?
8:30 am · Reply
.
Matthew stared dismally at his phone as Gilbert and Alfred argued about whose fault it was there were all locked on the roof. Who else could he call? Most of their friends were busy with chores or family stuff or work. This left him with very few choices.
He could call Francis, but the last thing he needed was to feel indebted to the man, so that was out. Ludwig was an obvious choice, but since Elizaveta was "busy" with something, it probably meant she'd kidnapped him for her own goals. The only ones left were Yong Soo, who would strike a deal to get him to come over and watch more K-drama's, or Antonio, who would probably just invite them all over for food. There was also the added possibility of Lovino abandoning family day to pop in and see Antonio.
"I hope you two like K-drama's," Matthew muttered as he called up Yong Soo.
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To: Kiku
From: Elizaveta
Matt and Gil have been successfully distracted. Unfortunately, Alfred got wrapped up in it too.
8:32 am · Reply
To: Elizaveta
From: Kiku
I had already taken the possibility into consideration. It will not be a problem.
8:33 am · Reply
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Im Yong Soo Having an all day K-drama marathon with Matthew , Gilbert , and Alfred! This is so great!
December 28, 2011 – 8:47 am · Comment · Like
Yao Wang: Don't forget to eat something so you don't come crawling to me begging for food again!
8:53 am · Like
Im Yong Soo: Snack table! [picture]
8:58 am · Like
Yao Wang: Give me a half hour and I'll have food for you that won't give you an immediate heart attack.
9:01 am · Like (Francis B likes this)
Im Yong Soo: Thanks, Yao! You're the best!
9:02 am · Like
Feliciano Vargas posted 9 new photos
I taught Ludwig how to make pasta today!
December 28, 2011 – 9:37 am · Comment · Like
(Francis B., Antonio Fernandez Carriedo, and 18 others like this)
Gilbert Beilschmidt: Isn't it a little early for that?
9:39 am via mobile web · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry: Says the guy who thinks pancakes are "anytime" food
9:48 am via mobile web · Like
December 29, 2011
Arthur Kirkland For some reason, I'm STILL finding mistletoe around the building. You wouldn't happen to know the reason for this, would you, Francis ?
December 29, 2011 – 10:13 am · Comment · Like
Francis B.: I'm hurt that you believe I would do such a thing.
10:32 am · Like
Yao Wang: Francis is the landlord. He should do something about it. Yong Soo keeps ambushing me in the halls when I try to leave for groceries.
11:49 am · Like
Francis B.: I'll take care of it once I return.
1:26 pm · Like (Arthur Kirkland, Yao Wang, and 4 others like this)
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Gilbert walked past Ludwig on his way out to meet up with Antonio and Francis. He paused as he opened the door and then turned back to frown at the book his brother was reading.
"Is there something you need?" Ludwig asked without looking up.
"That's not one of your books," Gilbert accused. He knew all of the books his brother had brought along on their trip and that was definitely not one of them.
Ludwig colored slightly, lowering the reading material to obscure the front even more than before. "It's one of Kiku's. He thought I might be interested in it."
Gilbert stood there for a few minutes longer as a few gears tumbled over in his bran. "Whatever. Have fun reading."
"Don't get too drunk."
Gilbert lifted one hand in a wave as he walked away, shutting the door behind him. As he hurried downstairs, not wanting to keep the guys waiting, he retrieved his phone fro his pocket and shot a hasty text to Matthew.
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To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
SOS kiku helping veta
11:02 am · Reply
To: Gil
From: Matthew
Are you sure?
11:06 am · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Gave West a strange book. Didn't get a good look at what it was
11:11 am · Reply
To: Gil
From: Matthew
Okay. I'll try and get a better look at it. Have fun with Francis and Antonio
11:24 am · Reply
To: Birdie
From: Gilbert
Awesome
11:25 am · Reply
.
The sudden reappearance of the mistletoe was baffling to everyone in the building, including Francis. Really, he was almost willing to call whoever put it back up a genius, except it was bringing him far more trouble than enjoyment. The fact that he was the one getting blamed for it wasn't helping matters.
So, after a quick stop asking Yong Soo to leave Yao and various other people alone, he set out to collect all of the offending plants and stuff them into a bag so he could dispose of them. It wasn't going well, as someone was putting them back as quickly as he could take them down.
To make matters worse, Scotty was amused just enough by the turn of events that he was speaking to him again. Or rather, following him around and making cheeky remarks.
"Someone's obviously determined ta keep 'em up. Maybe you should jus' let 'em," Scotty drawled.
"Unfortunately, Arthur is not the only one who complained about this, otherwise I would," Francis said with a dismal sigh. "As I am the landlord, it's up to me to fix this and find out who's behind it. Icould use a little help."
"You could," Scotty cheerily acknowleged. He smirked as he watched Francis yank down another bundle of mistletoe. A bit of dried plant material broke off and settled in his hair, but only Scotty noticed.
Francis hurried along down the hall to the stairs, keeping his eyes peeled for any more plants and doing his best to ignore how Scotty was still following him around. If the man would say someting, it wouldn't be nearly so aggravating.
Roman Vargas walked past them, whistling a tune as he headed back upstairs with his mail.
Three plants later, Francis was sure he'd finally collected them all and could enjoy the rest of his day in peace. However, when he and Scotty reached the bottom of the stairs, it was to find all new plants lining the hall of the first floor.
"Mon dieu," Francis muttered, closing his eyes and fighting to keep his composure.
Scotty chuckled.
Francis opened his eyes and whirled around, fully prepared to begin a shouting match right then and there, when he spotted yet another bundle handing directly above Scotty's head. Francis couldn't say exactly what overcame him in that moment. It could have been the alcohol still coursing through his veins. Maybe it was the building frustration finally breaking free. Either way, he suddenly found himself grasping the front of Scotty's shirt to yank him over for a harsh kiss.
Scotty pulled away to mutter something incomprehensible and wrap his arms around Francis's waist, pulling him closer. Francis relaxed his own grip the moment Scotty's lips were on his own again.
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Ioan Kirkland Interesting, the sort of things you see when trying to leave your home for any reason whatsoever.
December 29, 2011 – 7:19 pm · Comment · Like
Alfred F. Jones: If this is about the snowman on the 1st floor i can explain
7:23 pm · Like
Ioan Kirkland: What snowman?
7:28 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones: Uh nothing. Nevermind. I lied. There's no snowman
7:29 pm · Like
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To: Scott
From: Ioan
Scotty n Francis sitting in a tree K-I-S-S-I-N-G
7:34 pm · Reply
To: Ioan
From: Scott
How is it you're the oldest?
7:43 pm · Reply
To: Ioan
From: Scott
How do you even know about that? Are you spying on me again? Please tell me you haven't told Faolan and Arthur.
7:44 pm · Reply
To: Scotty
From: Faolán
Congrats on finally kissing Francis!
7:49 pm · Reply
To: Ioan and Faolán
From: Scott
STOP TELLING EVERYONE
7:53 pm · Reply
To: Scotty
From: Katyusha
Faolan just told me the happy news!
7:54 pm · Reply
To: Scotty
From: Arthur
What's this about you kissing the frog?
7:56 pm · Reply
To: Ioan and Faolán
From: Scott
I hate you both so much.
7:57 pm · Reply
December 30, 2011
To: Scotty
From: Alfred
Uh dude? Y is drunk Artie in my bed complaining about u betraying him?
12:47 am · Reply
To: Scotty
From: Alfred
pls come get him
1:15 am · Reply
To: Ioan
From: Alfred
Artie's drunk n won't leave my bed. Pls com get him so i can sleep
1:23 am · Reply
To: Faolán
From: Alfred
ok srsly? Ur bros suck. Arties up here drunk rambling and no one will answer me and i just want to sleep. Pls come get him.
1:49 am · Reply
To: Francis
From: Alfred
ok so normally i wouldn't ask but could you come get artie? He's crying in my bed and his bros won't answer me
2:09 am · Reply
To: Alfred
From: Francis
I'll be up in a moment, though I doubt he'll be pleased to see me.
2:11 am · Reply
To: Francis
From: Alfred
Actually nevermind. He finally fell asleep. Thanks for answering me
2:12 am · Reply
To: Alfred
From: Francis
Okay. Sleep well.
2:16 am · Reply
.
"Feeling better?"
Arthur groaned and slowly began to push away the strangely heavy blankets on top of him. "Matthew? Why are you in my room?"
"Actually, you're in Al's room. Hang on, let me get Americat off of you."
A weight lifted off of Arthur's chest and he was finally able to pull off the blankets covering his face. He groaned at the light assaulting his eyes, but stubbornly forced himself to adjust to it, even if it meant rapidly blinking his watery eyes until Matthew returned to his field of vision.
"Ugh. What happened?" Arthur groaned.
"You got drunk. Really drunk," Matthew said bluntly. "And then you broke in here and cried into Al's pillows for three hours. I tried to get you to calm down, but nothing worked. When Al got back you finally started talking... something about Scotty?" He added hesitantly.
Arthur grimaced as his memories of the day before flooded back to the surface of his mind. He wondered if it was too early to start drinking again.
"You know, I'm kind of relieved about Scotty and Francis. Things are more pleasant when they're on speaking terms and they both look so happy. More importantly, Francis didn't inappropriately complement me when I saw him earlier," Matthew said, sounding pleased. "He's actually kind of nice to be around when he's like this."
Arthur scowled.
"Are you..." Matthew paused for a moment, wondering how to proceed. "Arthur, are you jealous?"
That got a reaction. "Don't be ridiculous! It's just bizarre is all! When did this happen? How did this happen? I live with Scotty and there was never any indication that he felt that wa about the bloody Frog. At least Faolán and Ioan are obvious about their interests. Scotty's just- he deserves better than someone who flirts with every person he meets!" Arthur finally stopped talking, breathing heavily.
"Love is strange," Matthew quietly said. "But it seems to me, Scotty's been friends with Francis for a long time. He knows what he's getting into."
"That doesn't make a difference," Arthur said stubbornly. "You and Gilbert have been friends a long time, but I don't see the two of you making out in public!"
Matthew's cheeks took on a pink hue. "I don't-"
"I should go," Arthur interrupted, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed and unsteadily getting to his feet. "Tell Alfred I'll see him later."
"O...kay..." Matthew responded, looking just as confused as he sounded.
Arthur didn't hang around any longer.
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Scotty Kirkland is in a relationship with Francis B.
December 30, 2011 – 9:12 am · Comment · Like
(Ioan Kirkland and Faolán Kirkland like this)
Francis B. is in a relationship with Scotty Kirkland
December 30, 2011 – 9:19 am · Comment · Like
(Matthew Williams, Roman Vargas, and 4 others like this)
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To: Artie
From: Alfred
Hey man r u ok?
10:27 am · Reply
To: Alfred
From: Arthur
I'm fine.
10:48 am · Reply
To: Artie
From: Alfred
Ok
10:50 am · Reply
To: Artie
From: Alfred
its just that matt said u seemed weird this morning. U really that upset about scotty and francis?
10:51 am · Reply
To: Alfred
From: Arthur
I said I'm fine.
11:23 am · Reply
.
Ioan waltzed into Arthur's room without knocking, pointedly shutting the door behind him with a noticeable click . His little brother didn't even look up from his book, refusing to acknowlege his presense.
"So I hear from a little birdie that you're not talkin' to anyone," Ioan said. He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back against the door, making it clear he wasn't planning on going anywhere for quite some time. "There's only so long you can ignore me, little brother. I've got all the time in the world to stand right here and wait."
Arthur silently turned to the next page.
"Suit yourself," Ioan said with a shrug. "I'm going to keep talking, if you don't mind. No? Perfect. You're being a real idjit 'bout this, you know. Those two have been tip-toeing around each other since you lot got back from Canada. Maybe even before then. And we all know for a fact that Scotty's had a crush on the man for goin' on three years now. It's a relief to see somethin' finally come of it."
"That's just it."
"What's that?"
Arthur finally lowered his book, looking defeated. "Everyone keeps saying what a wonderful thing this is, but we all know how much Scotty likes that-" He paused and took a deep breath. " Francis. And Francis is, well... you know how he is. What happens when he gets bored and discards Scotty like he's nothing? Scotty will be devastated and here you all are acting like this is the greatest thing to have ever happened!"
"Oh laddie..." Ioan murmured, shaking his head. "You've gotten yourself all twisted up over nothing. See, I have it on good authority that Francis likes Scotty quite a bit. He wouldn't just dump him for no good reason."
"And whose authority is that?" Arthur demanded.
"The only one that matters. My own."
Roman happily closed out of his web browser, pleased with the recent developments in the apartment building. His mistletoe plan had worked perfectly! Granted, he'd been hoping to knock some sense into his stubborn grandson and the mostly clueless Spanish boy down the hall, but Scotty and Francis were just as good.
He watched as Feliciano skipped by on his way to the door, running late for his grocery run with Ludwig, who insisted the brunet learn to cook more than just pasta. Naturally, this required the two to go shopping together.
"Have fun, Feli~" Roman cooed after him.
Feliciano laughed. "I will! See you later, grandpa~"
Roman settled back in his chair. At least there was one grandson he wouldn't have to worry about. Feliciano would figure out his feelings sooner or later and then there'd be no stopping him.
December 31, 2011
Alfred F. Jones Me and Mattie are off on a secret mission!
December 31, 2011 – 7:54 am · Comment · Like
Arthur Kirkland: At this time of the morning? What on earth could be so important?
8:01 am · Like
Alfred F. Jones: Secret stuff
8:29 am via mobile web · Like
Alfred F. Jones: ;)
8:30 am via mobile web · Like
Matthew Williams to Gilbert Beilschmidt
Save me.
December 31, 2011 – 11:18 am via mobile web · Comment · Like
Gilbert Beilschmidt : kind of hard to do when I have no car and don't know my way around. Sorry, birdie.
11:29 am · Like
Heracle Karpusi posted 82 new photos – tagged Kiku Honda
December 31, 2011 – 3:08 pm · Comment · Like
Elizaveta Héderváry: Wow, that's a lot of cats!
3:13 pm · Like
Alfred F. Jones We've returned triumphantly from our secret mission! Everyone to the roof for fireworks! Spread the word! (Kiku Honda, Elizaveta Héderváry, Arthur Kirkland, Gilbert Beilschmidt)
December 31, 2011 – 6:43 pm · Comment · Like
(Francis B., Xianliang "Leon" Wang, and 23 others like this)
January 1, 2012
Matthew Williams Can someone please come and let me and Gilbert off of the roof?
January 1, 2012 – 4:13 am · Comment · Like
Alfred F. Jones : Don't worry, bro! The hero is on his way!
5:00 am · Like
Alfred F. Jones : why r you 2 still on the roof?
5:01 am · Like
Matthew Williams : We fell asleep.
5:04 am · Like
January 3, 2012
Gilbert Beilschmidt We're finally back at home after an awesome Christmas and New Years down in the USA!
January 3, 2012 – 9:10 pm · Comment · Like
(Matthew Williams, Feliciano Vargas, and 22 others like this)
Kiku Honda Things are so quiet now...
January 3, 2012 – 9:57 pm · Comment · Like
Im Yong Soo: I could come over and make some noise! It'll be fun!
9:58 pm · Like
Kiku Honda: No. Thank you.
9:59 pm · Like