Alpha (3/?)
anonymous
December 27 2009, 04:28:13 UTC
Matthew smiled as he walked back down into the basement, his boots squishing with each step down.
"Alfred! I brought some lunch for you and the kids! It's McDonald's! Your favorite." He walked over to where Alfred was chained tightly to a chair, struggling to break free. His yells were muffled by the gag in his mouth. To the side, New York was glaring at Matthew as the youngest states, tied up beside him, cried. He walked over and rustled Alaska's hair, smiling.
"Hey buddy. Uncle Mattie brought you your favorite kid's meal, and it has a really cool toy! Did everyone follow the rules while I was gone?"
"Yeah! But Hawaii's been crying really loud. I don't think she likes the game." He hopped out of his seat and held out his hands. Matthew smiled and gave him his kid's meal.
"Go sit down at the table." Matthew looked at the remaining bags in his hands and frowned. "Uh oh. Alaska, it looks like Uncle Mattie only remembered to get one more kid's meal! So you have to help me out." He motioned to the other states, who had stopped crying and were watching fearfully. "Who is your favorite sibling that you think should get to eat it?" He looked over as Alfred started yelling through his gag again and smiled, walking over, taking it out.
"What the hell is your problem?! You're going to starve my kids?! What kind of sick bastard are you? I don't know what I ever did to you, but you leave them out of this! They didn't do anything!" Matthew smiled, setting his hand on Alfred's cheek. He really was so naive.
"Oh Alfred. Dear, sweet, stupid Alfred. You're wrong. They have everything to do with it. Every one of them, even sweet Alaska, who I love dearly, is the product of another one of your meaningless relationships. Did you ever tell them? How they mean nothing to you?" Alfred glared.
"I said what happened between you and I meant nothing! My kids mean the world to me!" Matthew laughed and his hand slid from Alfred's cheek to his chin, gripping it tightly as he leaned in, practically purring.
"Such harsh words! It's okay. I know you're just putting up a front, but you don't have to! We're all family here, right?" He turned to look at the other states, who nodded hurriedly. New York turned, looking away, unable to say anything around the gag. Matthew frowned watching him, then turned to Alaska, who was watching everything while chewing on his fries.
"Did you pick who you want to eat with?" Alaska nodded and pointed to Arizona.
"Arizona always plays games with me and shares his toys with me." Matthew nodded and walked over to Arizona, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"Uncle Mattie is going to untie you, and you're going to sit down with Alaska and eat. Then, you're going to sit in your chair again. If you follow the rules of the game, you won't get tied up again. Do you understand?" Arizona looked to Alfred, who nodded, before looking up at Matthew nodding. Matthew smiled and ruffled his hair. "Such a good kid, playing with Alaska all the time. He's always telling me how lonely he is." He untied Arizona and gave him his meal. Arizona reached up with one hand, pulling off the gag and hurried over to the table, sitting next to Alaska.
"Hurry and see what toy you got! I have this one already." Alaska took Arizona's bag, pulling out the toy before he handed it back to him. Matthew turned and walked over to Alfred again.
"Don't worry. I haven't forgotten about you. I got you your usual. Four hamburgers, a fry, and a Coke. Hm. But you're all tied up." Alfred frowned and shook his head.
"No. I don't want it. Give it to the kids, since you 'forgot' their meals." There was a fire in his eyes and Matthew reveled in the chill it sent down his spine.
"But, you need to eat! After all, if we're going to add to our happy family, you'll need to be in your best shape." Alfred's narrowed.
"I can't have anymore states! Where would I have one?!" Matthew blinked. That was true. All the land in the world was claimed at this point. He couldn't just have a state. Well, that left only one thing to do.
"Well, then I guess we'll just have to replace a few others, won't we?" He set the bag on Alfred's lap and turned, walking towards New York, who started trying futilely to move his chair away, yelling through his gag.
Re: Alpha (3/?)
anonymous
December 31 2009, 04:09:13 UTC
Goodness anon. I'm so fearful right now, I'm hoping Russia has Alaska senses that go off whenever Alaska is upset or hurt just so Russia can put a stop to this. DDD:
Matthew grinned as he reached New York, grabbing a fistful of his hair and jerking his head back. “New York, New York. How fitting that our next state together will be a new New York. You know, I always hoped that we’d get married someday at Niagara Falls. Wouldn’t that be nice? Maybe on the Rainbow Bridge or something? Where our borders meet?” His voice darkened with each question and he gave another firm jerk to New York’s hair, causing him to yell out in pain. “Wouldn’t. That. Be. So. Romantic?
“Yes!” Alfred practically screamed it, as he watched helplessly. He swallowed, and it felt thick and heavy dropping down his throat. “It would be…so…romantic, Mattie…” He licked his lips, glancing to where New Mexico and Hawaii were watching, tears streaming down their cheeks. This wasn’t the Uncle Mattie they knew. This wasn’t him. This was…he didn’t know what this was. “Mattie…please…stop hurting him. It’s not necessary. You’re…you’re right. I do love you. I just-“ He paused as Matthew turned to look at him, his grip on New York’s hair loosening.
“You just what? Don’t love me the way I want you to? Is that what you’re going to say?” The sharp edge that had been there just moments before was gone. Matthew was quieter, more somber. Had he finally realized what he was doing? Come back to his senses? Alfred leaned back against his seat as Matthew turned to look at him. “Please don’t tell me that’s what you were going say. It wasn’t just a fling, Al. Right? You love me, just like I love you.” He knew he did. He just had to make Alfred see it.
Behind them, Arizona ate his food slowly, taking everything in. Alaska had ignored the rest of his meal in favor of playing with their toys. The food was like lead in his mouth as he realized what was happening, but there was nothing he could do.
“Of course I love you, Mattie. You’re right. I…I don’t like Ivan at all, but my boss has been twisting my arm behind my back. ‘Oh Alfred, it’s politics, you know how it is.’ It has to look legit though, so I have to play the part.” Alfred smiled weakly and Matthew released New York’s hair. A rumble echoed through the room and Alfred flushed. “I guess I am a little hungry.” If there was any relief when Matthew started walking over to him, he refused to let it show.
“Al…” Matthew reached over, cupping Alfred’s face lightly, searching. He had to assure himself that Alfred was telling the truth. “…I’ll help you eat.” Alfred glanced over at his states again and sighed, nodding. He had to keep them safe, no matter what.
“Thanks, Mattie.” Matthew smiled and nodded as he picked up the bag from his lap, replacing it with himself. He pulled out the fries, frowning slightly.
“You put up such a fuss that they got cold, Al.” He smiled a bit. “You always do that.” He set them aside to give to one of the kids later and pulled out one of the hamburgers instead. He pulled back the wrapper and leaned close as he held it up to Alfred’s mouth. “Open wide.” Alfred smiled to match Matthew’s, but it never quite reached his eyes as he began eating. Soon, all four of the hamburgers had been eaten, and Alfred was sipping the soda that Matthew was holding up for him.
“Mm.” Alfred plugged the straw with his tongue, indicating he didn’t want anymore. Matthew pulled it away and brought a thumb up to wipe the corner of his mouth. “Mattie…” A finger was placed over his mouth, hushing him.
“Oh, Al. This is how it should be. You and me, feeding each other meals, sitting together like this. Isn’t this nice?” Alfred just nodded, and Matthew continued, leaning close so his lips ghosted over Alfred’s. “Don’t you wish it could always be like this?” Alfred nodded again, swallowing.
“Yeah. In fact…” He looked over his shoulder at where his hands were bound behind him. “My ring. Get my ring off my finger.” Matthew raised a brow, but reached over, sliding the ring off, looking at it with disdain.
“What do you want this for, Al?” He scowled slightly looking at it. Sure, it was nice enough, but it wasn’t what Alfred deserved. No, he deserved the best that money could buy.
“I want you to give it back to Ivan for me.” The words tumbled slowly from his mouth.
“It’s not worth it!” New York struggled in his seat behind them. “Don’t give in like this!” Matthew looked over at New York and scowled, then looked back to Alfred.
“Are you just giving in? You don’t really love me?” Alfred shook his head frantically.
“Of course I love you, Mattie! You know I wouldn’t lie about that!” Matthew frowned as he searched Alfred’s expression again.
“Kiss me.” Alfred licked his lips lightly, swallowing.
“Kiss you.” Matthew frowned more. Panicking, Alfred leaned forward, pressing his lips against Matthew’s. After a moment, Matthew pulled away, nodding.
“Alright. I’ll give it back to Ivan. What should I tell him? He’ll be suspicious if I do.” Alfred shook his head.
“Tell him that there’s no way I could ever really love him. Did he really think I would forget our past so easily? The thought of marrying him makes me sick. I couldn’t even bear to look at him, so I asked you to do it.” He shook his head, fighting off a sudden wave of sleepiness.
Matthew nodded silently and turned, heading back upstairs. Alfred listened carefully as the footsteps trailed across the house. The front door opened and closed and the footsteps were gone. All was silent in the basement for a few minutes. Finally, after it seemed like enough time had passed, Alfred spoke in what he hoped was a steady tone.
“Arizona, Alaska. We’re gonna play the next part of the game while Uncle Mattie is gone. You have to untie New York, okay?” Alaska looked over from where he still playing with the happy meal toys.
“Okay, Daddy!” He hopped up and ran over to New York, working on untying the ropes that had been used on him. Arizona went over to America, climbing into his lap.
“What about you, Daddy? Why can’t we untie you?” Alfred smiled lightly.
“Because I have to be here so he doesn’t hurt any of you.” Arizona frowned, resting his head on Alfred’s chest, holding his shirt. “I’m scared, Daddy. Why is Uncle Mattie doing this?” Alfred shook his head.
“I don’t know, Arizona. I wish I did.” Alfred frowned. He looked over at Alaska, who was fumbling with the last of the knots around New York’s wrists.
As soon as he was untied, New York ran up the stairs, not needing further instructions from Alfred. He knew he had to get out of there and get help; the other states, another country, anyone. He rushed out to the living room and skidded to a halt.
“Why are you here?!” Matthew just smirked as he raised up the gun he had been waiting with.
“Because I knew you would be.”
Alfred’s heart dropped into his stomach like lead as the shot rang out, reverberating through the whole house. He didn’t need to see it to know what happened. A part of him just died.
Re: Alpha (4b/?)
anonymous
May 27 2010, 06:11:39 UTC
Holy shit, dude. I'm not as classy as the anon before me, sorry. I'd forgotten about this fill, and I'm so glad I started following the fills list again. *_*
... Also, omfg. Why so creepy, Canada? T_T This is what happens when the passive-aggressive finally explode? DX
The silence in the basement was punctuated with the occasional sniffles of New Mexico and Hawaii, who were still tied in their chairs. Every now and again, the whispered superhero noises Alaska was making with his toys would get louder, echoing through the room. Arizona still clung to Alfred’s shirt, refusing to leave the comparative safety of his father’s lap. Given the scene, Alfred wondered why Matthew had chosen Alaska, of all the states, to spare from his insanity. Alaska, who was Ivan’s son, and wasn’t his engagement to Ivan the start of this nightmare? The footsteps above them were heavy, echoing in the relative silence of the room. Something was being dragged across the floor. Alfred swallowed, willing himself not to think that it wasn’t something; it was someone. He distracted himself from the obvious activity upstairs.
“Alaska. Come sit with Daddy and Arizona.” Alaska looked up from his toys and smiled, hurrying over and climbing into his lap as Arizona shifted to make room for him. He looked over at New Mexico and Hawaii. What could he tell them that wouldn’t be a lie? It wouldn’t be alright. What had happened to New York had shattered that hope.
“I’m getting tired of this game, Daddy. Can we untie New Mexico and Hawaii now? And then you can win, because you stayed in your chair the longest!” He looked back at Alaska and shook his head quickly.
“No! Don’t!” Hawaii whimpered and he looked over. He wondered if he’d ever been so torn before. He wanted to tell Alaska to do it. They could have a chance to escape. But they didn’t. He was up there, waiting. Matthew. What had happened to him? How could someone fall so quickly to such a state? There was no time to do it anyway, as the footsteps crossed the kitchen and the basement door opened. Arizona’s arms moved tightly around Alfred’s neck.
“I’m scared, Daddy. Is Uncle Mattie mad?” Alfred licked his lips, feeling like he had cotton in his mouth.
“No, Arizona.” The voice was not his own, and he looked up to where Matthew was descending into the basement. He was still covered in blood, and held the gun in his hand. “I’m not mad at you. You’ve been very good. So has Alaska. And your sisters. You’re all such good children, playing our game and having fun.” Alfred frowned slightly. He wouldn’t exactly say the kids were having fun.
“Uncle Mattie! I’m tired of this game. Can we watch Spongebob?” Matthew brought his shirt up, wiping what he could off his face before stepping off the last step into the basement. He walked over and smiled, putting a hand on his head.
“Of course you can. I bet the others want to watch it, too, don’t you kids?” Matthew looked at Arizona, who nodded frantically. He smiled and walked over to New Mexico and Hawaii, frowning as they flinched away from him. “Aw. You still want to play this game? But this is getting boring, isn’t it?” He untied the ropes binding them to the chair. Instantly the girls ran to Alfred, throwing their arms around him where they could find space to. It broke Alfred’s heart and he craned his neck so he could kiss their foreheads. He took a shaky breath, and spoke slowly to keep his voice even. He didn’t want to frighten them anymore.
“ Why don’t you girls go upstairs and watch TV with your brother? And, you’re hungry, right? I know it’s not McDonald’s, but there’s cereal or there should be doughnuts from yesterday.” He thought for a moment. “And I want you to just stay upstairs, okay? Daddy and Uncle Mattie are still playing the game, and…” He swallowed, trying to get rid of the cottonmouth. “Please. Just go.” The girls nodded, and pulled away.
Matthew watched him interacting with his states, smiling fondly as the memories that it conjured filled his mind. It had been so long since they had a state together. A mistake, Alfred had said later, but he still loved and cherished their states all the same. Matthew knew, of course, that it wasn’t a mistake. It was just what Alfred had to say to appease the others. Soon, however, soon, they would be having another together. Perhaps more.
The children slowly withdrew from the room. He listened as their soft, careful footsteps disappeared up to the main level, and the door slowly shut behind them. The shift was almost instantaneous. Alfred’s glare fixed squarely on him.
“What are you doing? Matthew. You killed New York. You’re terrorizing my children. You’re…What are you doing to Alaska?” Matthew sighed, and moved to sit in his lap again, brushing aside Alfred’s bangs from his face, even as he flinched away from the touch.
“Oh Alfred. I’ve told you already, haven’t I? I’m going to get rid of everything that is blinding you to your feelings for me.” He leaned in to press a light kiss to Alfred’s cheek. “As for Alaska, I suppose it is strange that I favor his son over the others, isn’t it? But, that is what makes it so perfect. I am going to take everything away from him, Alfred, because he is the one that must pay for deceiving and confusing you. I’ll protect you from him.”
Behind the chair, Alfred’s hands were clenching and unclenching repeatedly, struggling and straining against the heavy chains that bound them together. He had difficulty lifting his arms before, but now they felt more like lead. Matthew chuckled as he leaned in to his ear.
“I’m the only one that loves you, Al. I know everything about you - what you like, what you don’t, how you will react to certain situations…” His breath was warm against Alfred’s neck. “I knew you would eat the burgers, Al, even if you didn’t want to. That’s why I drugged them before I brought them down here.” He reached his arms around Alfred, in a strange perversion of a hug as he unlocked the chains. Alfred winced as they hit the ground with a loud clank that echoed through the room. “I knew you would send New York upstairs if I pretended to leave, so I waited.” He leaned back, pulling the chains away, letting them drop as Alfred fell weakly into his arms. “And, I know you love me.”
The sky was getting darker with the sun having set for the evening, but Arizona kept running. He didn’t know where he was, but it wasn’t home. It was away from Uncle Mattie, and from a certain death. But it was also away from Daddy and his siblings. Someone else was going to die because of him. He knew it. But if he stayed there any longer, they would all die. He had tried to call for help as soon as they got upstairs, but to no avail. He kept moving. He had to get help.
As soon as they got upstairs, Alaska ran to the television, turning it on. Soon, Spongebob was echoing through the halls. Hawaii sniffled as she tugged on Arizona’s sleeve.
“Arizona, what are we going to do? Uncle Mattie’s really scary! And he’s hurting Daddy…” New Mexico nodded and whispered in hushed tones.
“And I think he did something to New York. Why is Alaska helping him?” She looked over her shoulder to the living room with a look of distrust. “Doesn’t he love Daddy and Mr. Russia?” Arizona frowned as he thought. He always wanted to be the hero, like his Daddy was, but now he wasn’t so sure. It was hard, and it was dangerous. More than a kid could handle.
“We need to help Daddy.” He went to the phone, picking it up. Grandpa Artie always knew what to do when there was trouble. He dialed Arthur’s number off the emergency list by the phone, bringing the phone to his ear and waiting. New Mexico and Hawaii gathered around him eagerly, casting worried glances at the basement door. Uncle Mattie had been waiting for New York. Who knew if he was waiting by the door to catch them? Arizona frowned, hanging up the phone and dialing again. Nothing. “It’s not ringing…”
“Try again.” Hawaii tugged on his sleeve more. “Maybe it’s a wrong number?” Arizona shook his head.
“The phone isn’t working. I think Uncle Mattie did it. One of us has to get out of here and get help. New Jersey lives close to here. She’ll know what to do!” New Mexico shook her head.
“But Daddy told us to stay here, and Uncle Mattie will get mad! What if he ties us up again? I think he hurt New York, Arizona. What if he hurts one of us? Or Daddy?” Arizona frowned.
“If we don’t get help, we’re ALL going to die, New Mexico. Don’t you see what he’s doing? He keeps saying it. He wants to replace us.” He didn’t want to know how.
“Hey guys! You’re missing the show! What are you doing in there? I thought the doughnuts were on the counter.” Arizona winced, ushering Hawaii out to the living room. He didn’t need Alaska yelling and drawing Uncle Mattie’s attention to what they were doing. New Mexico grabbed the box off the counter and hurried after him.
Arizona looked around the living room as the others joined Alaska on the couch to watch the show. His eyes fell on the door. He could get out of here. He could get them help. He knew that he could find New Jersey’s house. They’d ridden their bikes there with Daddy plenty of times before.
“I’m going.” He looked over at New Mexico and Hawaii. “Stay here and be quiet. I’ll get us help.”
Arizona stopped at the end of the street, reading the signs. This was it! He rounded the corner and made his way to New Jersey’s house, already trying to figure out how to explain the situation to her. He could only hope she was home.
Matthew glanced up as he finished pulling his shirt back on. The droning of the TV could be heard through the floor. There hadn’t been movement upstairs in a while. He’d have to check on the states. If they’d been behaving, they could sleep in their own beds tonight. He looked down at Alfred, who was struggling to push himself up as he reached for his pants.
“You shouldn’t push yourself too much. After all, we need you in your best shape to carry our states.” Alfred said nothing, shooting him a glare as he managed to sit up. “Don’t be like that, Al. I told you, you love me. I know it, and if you don’t think so, your body knows it. We were meant to be together. We belong together.” He kneeled down beside him, pressing another kiss to his now swollen lips. “And we’ll always be together.”
"Alfred! I brought some lunch for you and the kids! It's McDonald's! Your favorite." He walked over to where Alfred was chained tightly to a chair, struggling to break free. His yells were muffled by the gag in his mouth. To the side, New York was glaring at Matthew as the youngest states, tied up beside him, cried. He walked over and rustled Alaska's hair, smiling.
"Hey buddy. Uncle Mattie brought you your favorite kid's meal, and it has a really cool toy! Did everyone follow the rules while I was gone?"
"Yeah! But Hawaii's been crying really loud. I don't think she likes the game." He hopped out of his seat and held out his hands. Matthew smiled and gave him his kid's meal.
"Go sit down at the table." Matthew looked at the remaining bags in his hands and frowned. "Uh oh. Alaska, it looks like Uncle Mattie only remembered to get one more kid's meal! So you have to help me out." He motioned to the other states, who had stopped crying and were watching fearfully. "Who is your favorite sibling that you think should get to eat it?" He looked over as Alfred started yelling through his gag again and smiled, walking over, taking it out.
"What the hell is your problem?! You're going to starve my kids?! What kind of sick bastard are you? I don't know what I ever did to you, but you leave them out of this! They didn't do anything!" Matthew smiled, setting his hand on Alfred's cheek. He really was so naive.
"Oh Alfred. Dear, sweet, stupid Alfred. You're wrong. They have everything to do with it. Every one of them, even sweet Alaska, who I love dearly, is the product of another one of your meaningless relationships. Did you ever tell them? How they mean nothing to you?" Alfred glared.
"I said what happened between you and I meant nothing! My kids mean the world to me!" Matthew laughed and his hand slid from Alfred's cheek to his chin, gripping it tightly as he leaned in, practically purring.
"Such harsh words! It's okay. I know you're just putting up a front, but you don't have to! We're all family here, right?" He turned to look at the other states, who nodded hurriedly. New York turned, looking away, unable to say anything around the gag. Matthew frowned watching him, then turned to Alaska, who was watching everything while chewing on his fries.
"Did you pick who you want to eat with?" Alaska nodded and pointed to Arizona.
"Arizona always plays games with me and shares his toys with me." Matthew nodded and walked over to Arizona, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"Uncle Mattie is going to untie you, and you're going to sit down with Alaska and eat. Then, you're going to sit in your chair again. If you follow the rules of the game, you won't get tied up again. Do you understand?" Arizona looked to Alfred, who nodded, before looking up at Matthew nodding. Matthew smiled and ruffled his hair. "Such a good kid, playing with Alaska all the time. He's always telling me how lonely he is." He untied Arizona and gave him his meal. Arizona reached up with one hand, pulling off the gag and hurried over to the table, sitting next to Alaska.
"Hurry and see what toy you got! I have this one already." Alaska took Arizona's bag, pulling out the toy before he handed it back to him. Matthew turned and walked over to Alfred again.
"Don't worry. I haven't forgotten about you. I got you your usual. Four hamburgers, a fry, and a Coke. Hm. But you're all tied up." Alfred frowned and shook his head.
"No. I don't want it. Give it to the kids, since you 'forgot' their meals." There was a fire in his eyes and Matthew reveled in the chill it sent down his spine.
"But, you need to eat! After all, if we're going to add to our happy family, you'll need to be in your best shape." Alfred's narrowed.
"I can't have anymore states! Where would I have one?!" Matthew blinked. That was true. All the land in the world was claimed at this point. He couldn't just have a state. Well, that left only one thing to do.
"Well, then I guess we'll just have to replace a few others, won't we?" He set the bag on Alfred's lap and turned, walking towards New York, who started trying futilely to move his chair away, yelling through his gag.
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Oh gods...this is...just...yeah...no words for how creepy Canada is being and how amazing (and potentially heartbreaking) this fic is going to be...
*whimpers*
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xD I do like this fanfiction. I hope Russia is able to swoop in and save the day.
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“Yes!” Alfred practically screamed it, as he watched helplessly. He swallowed, and it felt thick and heavy dropping down his throat. “It would be…so…romantic, Mattie…” He licked his lips, glancing to where New Mexico and Hawaii were watching, tears streaming down their cheeks. This wasn’t the Uncle Mattie they knew. This wasn’t him. This was…he didn’t know what this was. “Mattie…please…stop hurting him. It’s not necessary. You’re…you’re right. I do love you. I just-“ He paused as Matthew turned to look at him, his grip on New York’s hair loosening.
“You just what? Don’t love me the way I want you to? Is that what you’re going to say?” The sharp edge that had been there just moments before was gone. Matthew was quieter, more somber. Had he finally realized what he was doing? Come back to his senses? Alfred leaned back against his seat as Matthew turned to look at him. “Please don’t tell me that’s what you were going say. It wasn’t just a fling, Al. Right? You love me, just like I love you.” He knew he did. He just had to make Alfred see it.
Behind them, Arizona ate his food slowly, taking everything in. Alaska had ignored the rest of his meal in favor of playing with their toys. The food was like lead in his mouth as he realized what was happening, but there was nothing he could do.
“Of course I love you, Mattie. You’re right. I…I don’t like Ivan at all, but my boss has been twisting my arm behind my back. ‘Oh Alfred, it’s politics, you know how it is.’ It has to look legit though, so I have to play the part.” Alfred smiled weakly and Matthew released New York’s hair. A rumble echoed through the room and Alfred flushed. “I guess I am a little hungry.” If there was any relief when Matthew started walking over to him, he refused to let it show.
“Al…” Matthew reached over, cupping Alfred’s face lightly, searching. He had to assure himself that Alfred was telling the truth. “…I’ll help you eat.” Alfred glanced over at his states again and sighed, nodding. He had to keep them safe, no matter what.
“Thanks, Mattie.” Matthew smiled and nodded as he picked up the bag from his lap, replacing it with himself. He pulled out the fries, frowning slightly.
“You put up such a fuss that they got cold, Al.” He smiled a bit. “You always do that.” He set them aside to give to one of the kids later and pulled out one of the hamburgers instead. He pulled back the wrapper and leaned close as he held it up to Alfred’s mouth. “Open wide.” Alfred smiled to match Matthew’s, but it never quite reached his eyes as he began eating. Soon, all four of the hamburgers had been eaten, and Alfred was sipping the soda that Matthew was holding up for him.
“Mm.” Alfred plugged the straw with his tongue, indicating he didn’t want anymore. Matthew pulled it away and brought a thumb up to wipe the corner of his mouth. “Mattie…” A finger was placed over his mouth, hushing him.
“Oh, Al. This is how it should be. You and me, feeding each other meals, sitting together like this. Isn’t this nice?” Alfred just nodded, and Matthew continued, leaning close so his lips ghosted over Alfred’s. “Don’t you wish it could always be like this?” Alfred nodded again, swallowing.
“Yeah. In fact…” He looked over his shoulder at where his hands were bound behind him. “My ring. Get my ring off my finger.” Matthew raised a brow, but reached over, sliding the ring off, looking at it with disdain.
“What do you want this for, Al?” He scowled slightly looking at it. Sure, it was nice enough, but it wasn’t what Alfred deserved. No, he deserved the best that money could buy.
“I want you to give it back to Ivan for me.” The words tumbled slowly from his mouth.
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“Are you just giving in? You don’t really love me?” Alfred shook his head frantically.
“Of course I love you, Mattie! You know I wouldn’t lie about that!” Matthew frowned as he searched Alfred’s expression again.
“Kiss me.” Alfred licked his lips lightly, swallowing.
“Kiss you.” Matthew frowned more. Panicking, Alfred leaned forward, pressing his lips against Matthew’s. After a moment, Matthew pulled away, nodding.
“Alright. I’ll give it back to Ivan. What should I tell him? He’ll be suspicious if I do.” Alfred shook his head.
“Tell him that there’s no way I could ever really love him. Did he really think I would forget our past so easily? The thought of marrying him makes me sick. I couldn’t even bear to look at him, so I asked you to do it.” He shook his head, fighting off a sudden wave of sleepiness.
Matthew nodded silently and turned, heading back upstairs. Alfred listened carefully as the footsteps trailed across the house. The front door opened and closed and the footsteps were gone. All was silent in the basement for a few minutes. Finally, after it seemed like enough time had passed, Alfred spoke in what he hoped was a steady tone.
“Arizona, Alaska. We’re gonna play the next part of the game while Uncle Mattie is gone. You have to untie New York, okay?” Alaska looked over from where he still playing with the happy meal toys.
“Okay, Daddy!” He hopped up and ran over to New York, working on untying the ropes that had been used on him. Arizona went over to America, climbing into his lap.
“What about you, Daddy? Why can’t we untie you?” Alfred smiled lightly.
“Because I have to be here so he doesn’t hurt any of you.” Arizona frowned, resting his head on Alfred’s chest, holding his shirt.
“I’m scared, Daddy. Why is Uncle Mattie doing this?” Alfred shook his head.
“I don’t know, Arizona. I wish I did.” Alfred frowned. He looked over at Alaska, who was fumbling with the last of the knots around New York’s wrists.
As soon as he was untied, New York ran up the stairs, not needing further instructions from Alfred. He knew he had to get out of there and get help; the other states, another country, anyone. He rushed out to the living room and skidded to a halt.
“Why are you here?!” Matthew just smirked as he raised up the gun he had been waiting with.
“Because I knew you would be.”
Alfred’s heart dropped into his stomach like lead as the shot rang out, reverberating through the whole house. He didn’t need to see it to know what happened. A part of him just died.
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Welcome back(?) Author-non~!!
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... Also, omfg. Why so creepy, Canada? T_T This is what happens when the passive-aggressive finally explode? DX
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It only gets worse from here. Poor guy. He totally cracked.
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Seriously so glad to see this is being continued!
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“Alaska. Come sit with Daddy and Arizona.” Alaska looked up from his toys and smiled, hurrying over and climbing into his lap as Arizona shifted to make room for him. He looked over at New Mexico and Hawaii. What could he tell them that wouldn’t be a lie? It wouldn’t be alright. What had happened to New York had shattered that hope.
“I’m getting tired of this game, Daddy. Can we untie New Mexico and Hawaii now? And then you can win, because you stayed in your chair the longest!” He looked back at Alaska and shook his head quickly.
“No! Don’t!” Hawaii whimpered and he looked over. He wondered if he’d ever been so torn before. He wanted to tell Alaska to do it. They could have a chance to escape. But they didn’t. He was up there, waiting. Matthew. What had happened to him? How could someone fall so quickly to such a state? There was no time to do it anyway, as the footsteps crossed the kitchen and the basement door opened. Arizona’s arms moved tightly around Alfred’s neck.
“I’m scared, Daddy. Is Uncle Mattie mad?” Alfred licked his lips, feeling like he had cotton in his mouth.
“No, Arizona.” The voice was not his own, and he looked up to where Matthew was descending into the basement. He was still covered in blood, and held the gun in his hand. “I’m not mad at you. You’ve been very good. So has Alaska. And your sisters. You’re all such good children, playing our game and having fun.” Alfred frowned slightly. He wouldn’t exactly say the kids were having fun.
“Uncle Mattie! I’m tired of this game. Can we watch Spongebob?” Matthew brought his shirt up, wiping what he could off his face before stepping off the last step into the basement. He walked over and smiled, putting a hand on his head.
“Of course you can. I bet the others want to watch it, too, don’t you kids?” Matthew looked at Arizona, who nodded frantically. He smiled and walked over to New Mexico and Hawaii, frowning as they flinched away from him. “Aw. You still want to play this game? But this is getting boring, isn’t it?” He untied the ropes binding them to the chair. Instantly the girls ran to Alfred, throwing their arms around him where they could find space to. It broke Alfred’s heart and he craned his neck so he could kiss their foreheads. He took a shaky breath, and spoke slowly to keep his voice even. He didn’t want to frighten them anymore.
“ Why don’t you girls go upstairs and watch TV with your brother? And, you’re hungry, right? I know it’s not McDonald’s, but there’s cereal or there should be doughnuts from yesterday.” He thought for a moment. “And I want you to just stay upstairs, okay? Daddy and Uncle Mattie are still playing the game, and…” He swallowed, trying to get rid of the cottonmouth. “Please. Just go.” The girls nodded, and pulled away.
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The children slowly withdrew from the room. He listened as their soft, careful footsteps disappeared up to the main level, and the door slowly shut behind them. The shift was almost instantaneous. Alfred’s glare fixed squarely on him.
“What are you doing? Matthew. You killed New York. You’re terrorizing my children. You’re…What are you doing to Alaska?” Matthew sighed, and moved to sit in his lap again, brushing aside Alfred’s bangs from his face, even as he flinched away from the touch.
“Oh Alfred. I’ve told you already, haven’t I? I’m going to get rid of everything that is blinding you to your feelings for me.” He leaned in to press a light kiss to Alfred’s cheek. “As for Alaska, I suppose it is strange that I favor his son over the others, isn’t it? But, that is what makes it so perfect. I am going to take everything away from him, Alfred, because he is the one that must pay for deceiving and confusing you. I’ll protect you from him.”
Behind the chair, Alfred’s hands were clenching and unclenching repeatedly, struggling and straining against the heavy chains that bound them together. He had difficulty lifting his arms before, but now they felt more like lead. Matthew chuckled as he leaned in to his ear.
“I’m the only one that loves you, Al. I know everything about you - what you like, what you don’t, how you will react to certain situations…” His breath was warm against Alfred’s neck. “I knew you would eat the burgers, Al, even if you didn’t want to. That’s why I drugged them before I brought them down here.” He reached his arms around Alfred, in a strange perversion of a hug as he unlocked the chains. Alfred winced as they hit the ground with a loud clank that echoed through the room. “I knew you would send New York upstairs if I pretended to leave, so I waited.” He leaned back, pulling the chains away, letting them drop as Alfred fell weakly into his arms. “And, I know you love me.”
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Poor Alfred and the other states...even more for what's about to come.
Wonderful as always anon!
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Oh the therapy that will be needed after this one.
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As soon as they got upstairs, Alaska ran to the television, turning it on. Soon, Spongebob was echoing through the halls. Hawaii sniffled as she tugged on Arizona’s sleeve.
“Arizona, what are we going to do? Uncle Mattie’s really scary! And he’s hurting Daddy…” New Mexico nodded and whispered in hushed tones.
“And I think he did something to New York. Why is Alaska helping him?” She looked over her shoulder to the living room with a look of distrust. “Doesn’t he love Daddy and Mr. Russia?” Arizona frowned as he thought. He always wanted to be the hero, like his Daddy was, but now he wasn’t so sure. It was hard, and it was dangerous. More than a kid could handle.
“We need to help Daddy.” He went to the phone, picking it up. Grandpa Artie always knew what to do when there was trouble. He dialed Arthur’s number off the emergency list by the phone, bringing the phone to his ear and waiting. New Mexico and Hawaii gathered around him eagerly, casting worried glances at the basement door. Uncle Mattie had been waiting for New York. Who knew if he was waiting by the door to catch them? Arizona frowned, hanging up the phone and dialing again. Nothing. “It’s not ringing…”
“Try again.” Hawaii tugged on his sleeve more. “Maybe it’s a wrong number?” Arizona shook his head.
“The phone isn’t working. I think Uncle Mattie did it. One of us has to get out of here and get help. New Jersey lives close to here. She’ll know what to do!” New Mexico shook her head.
“But Daddy told us to stay here, and Uncle Mattie will get mad! What if he ties us up again? I think he hurt New York, Arizona. What if he hurts one of us? Or Daddy?” Arizona frowned.
“If we don’t get help, we’re ALL going to die, New Mexico. Don’t you see what he’s doing? He keeps saying it. He wants to replace us.” He didn’t want to know how.
“Hey guys! You’re missing the show! What are you doing in there? I thought the doughnuts were on the counter.” Arizona winced, ushering Hawaii out to the living room. He didn’t need Alaska yelling and drawing Uncle Mattie’s attention to what they were doing. New Mexico grabbed the box off the counter and hurried after him.
Arizona looked around the living room as the others joined Alaska on the couch to watch the show. His eyes fell on the door. He could get out of here. He could get them help. He knew that he could find New Jersey’s house. They’d ridden their bikes there with Daddy plenty of times before.
“I’m going.” He looked over at New Mexico and Hawaii. “Stay here and be quiet. I’ll get us help.”
Arizona stopped at the end of the street, reading the signs. This was it! He rounded the corner and made his way to New Jersey’s house, already trying to figure out how to explain the situation to her. He could only hope she was home.
Matthew glanced up as he finished pulling his shirt back on. The droning of the TV could be heard through the floor. There hadn’t been movement upstairs in a while. He’d have to check on the states. If they’d been behaving, they could sleep in their own beds tonight. He looked down at Alfred, who was struggling to push himself up as he reached for his pants.
“You shouldn’t push yourself too much. After all, we need you in your best shape to carry our states.” Alfred said nothing, shooting him a glare as he managed to sit up. “Don’t be like that, Al. I told you, you love me. I know it, and if you don’t think so, your body knows it. We were meant to be together. We belong together.” He kneeled down beside him, pressing another kiss to his now swollen lips. “And we’ll always be together.”
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