Fullmetal Alchemist Fan Fiction ❯ A Love Forgotten ❯ Celebration I ( Chapter 26 )

A Love Forgotten

By Joyfulmusic

 

I don't own FMA

Note: May contain spoilers!

 

Chapter 26: Celebration I

 

“Hurry up you two or we'll be late.” Briana was already dressed in a red evening gown. It went to her ankles and so covered her braces completely. The straps appeared to be lines of rubies. Over her shoulders draped a sheer black shawl, which matched her midnight flat shoes. Her hair was swept back, but still hanging.

 

“Come on Al they won't hold those reservations forever.” Ed was still fighting with his own tie. Of course he was speaking loud enough for his wife to hear. Finally giving up, he clapped his hands together then touched them to the cloth. Instantly it changed, becoming tied, or at least seemed to be.

 

“Brother that's cheating.” Alphonse told him, having already mastered his own wardrobe. Shaking his head he left his bedroom, going out into the hall. Taking in the sight of his sister he smiled and nodded approvingly. The crutches didn't take away from the effect. “Brie, you look beautiful.”

 

Giving a slight nod, since she couldn't bow, she giggled. “Why thank you, and you're very handsome tonight.” Glancing past him she asked, “Where's Ed? Is he still getting dressed?” When her in-law gave her a smirk she knew something was up and with a sigh gave in, “I'll go get him.”

 

Edward was gazing in the mirror of Al's room when the brunette entered. The expression on her face was priceless. `I was hoping she'd be happy about it.' Turning to her, he grinned as he took a few steps toward her, “Well what do you think? Is it going to be alright?”

 

Slowly lifting a hand, she reached behind his neck and took hold of the ponytail. Running her fingers through his hair, her bottom lip quivered. “Oh Edward, it's wonderful.” A tear slid down from the corner of her eye. Pressing her lips against his, she felt as though she were soaring.

 

“Mmmm” He mumbled, pulling away. “Good, I'm glad you like it.” Backing up slightly he looked her up and down and with a sly grin teased, “I'm not so sure I need to take you out in such a fine dress though. I'm afraid some stranger might come through and sweep you off your feet.”

 

Giggling, she turned from him to head back toward the living room. “Come on, we've still got to call a cab.” She could feel his palm gently brushing the small of her back, sending a shiver up her spine. “Would you stop that already? You know I'm ticklish!” But her voice was light with a hint of laughter.

 

Leaning over and kissing her neck he smiled. “I know. That's why I did it.” Turning to his sibling he questioned, “You ready Al?” Of course he knew the answer to that. The younger had finished dressing before he had. It was exactly the same as when they had been kids.

 

“Yes brother, I've been ready.” Opening the door the taller man thought back to when they were children. It was always the same; he'd be all set long before Edward. But the elder had always called out for him to hurry so their mother would think he wasn't the one who was causing the delay.

 

 

As the alchemist got out of the car and turned back to watch his wife, he smiled. She appeared beautiful in the moonlight, even with that pout as she had to adjust the braces. `No wonder I fell for her. How could I not?' Taking her hand he helped her to stand, then took the crutches from Al who was still inside the cab.

 

Sliding out, Alphonse watched as Briana slowly made her way up the walk. `She's getting faster though.' Paying the driver he caught up with the couple, staying just a few steps behind. Somehow he felt slightly out of place as he saw the way they interacted. `It should have just been just them, like a date.'

 

As if sensing his feelings, Brie glanced back over her shoulder at him. The gleam in her blue-green eyes had returned, for the moment at least. “What's wrong? Am I going to fast for you?” She laughed gleefully as he shook his head and moved to walk on the other side of her.

 

When they reached the door, a servant opened it for them. It was indeed a fine restaurant, but Ed had wanted to celebrate so they didn't count the cost. “Welcome, may I ask for your name?” The man was in a black suit, and after having found their reservation led them to a rectangular table that overlooked the dance floor.

 

Helping her to sit in one of the chairs, Edward took the seat just opposite. Alphonse opted for the one beside his brother. The music was playing softly in the background. The brunette watched as men twirled their dates around, dresses glittering and swaying with the movement.

 

The alchemist paid the dancers little attention as he scanned through the menu. “Their steak sounds good. How about it Brie?” Glancing up at her, he was too late to see her quickly move her head down to read the other options. “Well what do you think? Sounds good, right?”

 

“Oh uh…” Noticing the taco salad she smiled. “I think I'd rather have this.” She pointed it out to him, giggling when he wrinkled his nose. Shifting her gaze to her in-law, she asked, “What about you. What'll you have?” It was then that she realized he wasn't paying any attention at all.

 

Instead his eyes were locked on a couple of women sitting at one of the small tables in the corner. They were laughing and giving him a seductive smile. `They can't be talking about me… can they?' When he heard his sister mention his name again, his mind snapped back to reality. “Huh? What?”

 

Edward was also staring at him now, but it was Brie who spoke up. “I think they like you Al.” When he blushed she tilted her head slightly. `That's right, he wouldn't have had this happen while he was in the armor.' Clearing her throat she whispered. “You're very handsome Al. I'm not surprised that they're noticing you.”

 

Glancing back to the women he saw them give him a small wave. His red shade darkened. Was it him or had it suddenly become very hot? “Well what am I supposed to do?” There was no time for an answer however because the two ladies were already headed his way.

 

One had short black hair, with an even shorter skirt. The other, taller girl, had strawberry blond locks, and wore a similar style dress. Both had legs that seemed to go on for days, and a stride that well suited them. They seemed to walk in unison, as if they should have been twins.

 

Upon reaching the table they both gave an intoxicating smile. The shorter female's voice was both sweet and alluring. “Hello there. My friend and I were wondering if you gentlemen would care to dance.” Her hand was already on Alphonse's shoulder, her nails like that of a cat.

 

Edward glanced up when he felt the other woman behind him. She hadn't laid a finger on him but he felt violated. His first reaction was to say `No' but then he saw the pleading look on his sibling's face. `He's never gotten to do any of the normal things. Still…' Turning to his wife he was sure she was thinking the same thing.

 

“Go on, have some fun.” She told them, having to swallow the lump that had formed in her throat. “I'll order for you.” She offered, having to prod her husband a little more. `It's alright, I'll be fine.' She knew Al wouldn't be willing to go if his brother didn't also accept the invitation.

 

Giving a single nod, Ed stood and took the woman by the hand. The younger Elric grinned as he followed, imitating the elder's every move. Brie noticed the golden eyes glancing back at her before he put his arms around the woman. `He hates this and I'm going to hear about it later.'

 

Sighing she peered down into her drink. The song was a slow one, and she couldn't bear to see him dancing so close with someone else. `It's for Al though. It's probably his first real dance. Besides it's not like Ed's enjoying it. He loathes it, I can tell by that look he gave me.'

 

“May I?” Jerking her head up, she saw a man in a wheelchair smiling at her. His dark brown hair and eyes were extremely attractive, though that didn't really make much difference to her. She was happily married after all. “Do you mind if I sit here with you Miss?”

 

“Oh!” As if finally being snapped back to reality Brie laughed slightly. “I'm sorry I guess my mind was wandering. Yes if you want to.” She motioned to the end of the table beside her. As he made his way around she ventured to ask, “Are you here alone or are you waiting for someone?”

 

He glanced at the door. “Actually I was waiting for an associate of mine but he seems to be running late.” Motioning toward the dance floor, he continued. “And since you're companions had gone I thought that we might sit alone together.” His smile was infectious, as was his laugh. With a posh accent he added, “I just hate being alone by myself don't you?”

 

“Oh yes.” She giggled, trying to mimic his voice. “That's the worst kind of alone.” Holding out a hand to him she introduced herself, “I'm Briana Everson, and I'm very pleased you came over. Keeps me from feeling sorry for myself.” Her expression changed to horror as she realized what she'd said. “Oh I'm sorry I didn't mean it like that. I only… oh…”

 

“Don't worry.” He chuckled, patting the handle of his chair. “This is nothing. I saw you as you came in. Frankly I think my way's easier.” Taking her hand, which she'd dropped to the table he leaned over and kissed it gently. “I'm Victor Mahn, and it's very nice to meet you.”

 

Shaking her head, she could tell that the blush still hadn't faded from her cheeks. “I can't believe I said that.” But he didn't seem upset by any of it. As their conversation continued they actually began to have a good time. Perhaps it was their disabilities that connected them.

 

“I guess your friend found one of her own kind.” The raven haired girl murmured to Alphonse, a grin on her face. She'd noticed when the guy had wheeled himself over and it pleased her. `This is working out far better than I hoped. Now we won't have to worry about her getting home alone.'

 

Her dance partner stopped and backed up. “What are you talking about?” It wasn't distrust in his voice, but it sounded similar. His silver eyes followed to the area where she was pointing. There, sitting with his sister-in-law was a very handsome man in a wheelchair.

 

Pulling away from the woman he moved through the couples, pausing behind one particular set. Tapping him on the shoulder Al said, “Brother, we've gotta go.” His tone was stern as he nodded toward their table. The alchemist only took one look in that direction before starting across the floor.

 

“Darling.” With that one word he caught her attention and conveyed a message that could in no way, be misunderstood. Glaring down at the guy he held out a hand, knowing she'd want him to be somewhat civil. “Edward Elric, State Alchemist, I see that you've already met my wife.”

 

“Wife?” Victor's gaze moved between the two people then noticed that the second, assumed, friend had also shown up. Accepting the greeting and shaking hands he was still very puzzled. “But I thought you said that your name was Everson… Did I hear you wrong?”

 

“No.” The look Brie gave her husband could have taken years off his life if he hadn't been so mad. In a sweet tone she tried to find some plausible explanation, especially since the truth wasn't all that believable. “I chose to keep my maiden name. Oh and this is Alphonse, my brother-in-law.”

 

Al only nodded to the man, his expression was as disapproving as his sibling's. Taking the hint Victor bowed his head in a farewell gesture. “It was very nice meeting you Briana, but I think I see my friend coming in now.” With that he wheeled quickly toward his own table.

 

“I can't believe you Ed!” Her voice was hushed but it was evident she wanted to scream at him. “All we were doing was talking. Aren't I even allowed to do that much?” As the two sat down the waiter came up, but she waved him away. Her face was flush with anger now.

 

“Well what did you expect me to do? I didn't make him leave. All I did was introduce myself.” His own temper had been heightened and wasn't about to go down. But when he saw the glisten of tears his whole demeanor changed. Sighing heavily he took her hand in his. “I'm sorry.”

 

His words were whispered but they did the trick. A slight hint of a smile crossed her lips. `He's the same as he always was. Even before, even as Jacob he was easy to make jealous.' Turning to Al she frowned. “You didn't have to leave your dance just because of him.”

 

“Actually.” Scratching the back his head, he blushed. “I'm kinda the one who brought him back over here.” When he saw her expression changed to that one that Winry gave when she was discussed with them he pouted. That seemed to do the trick. “I'm just looking out for you.”

 

Shaking her head, Briana sighed. “Well you two could have been a little nicer to him. After all we were only talking.” It was evident that she wasn't going to receive an affirmative on that statement. It was then that the waiter came back over and asked to take their order.