When Lily's Cry: Puppet Strings

Chapter III. Around the corner

"Sure... well, if that's all you wanted to speak with me about, then I'd best be leaving."

"Nyet. You will accompany me on a walk, da?"

Alfred rolled his eyes before walking ahead of the taller teen.

"Fine. Hurry up at least, I've got chem. Lab after this."

Ivan smiled cheerfully before taking several large steps to catch up with the American.

"Da!"

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Alfred gave a few sideways glances to the Russian, since he was still wary of his presence at times. The taller man was friendly once you got to know him, but something about the ash blond boy seemed off. Alfred could never tell what, but usually he would push his worries to the back of his mind, just like plenty of other things.
Ivan would occasionally spark conversation, which would die out after a few short reply's from Alfred. And after about 15 minutes Alfred decided it was time to head back, turning sharply on his heel. But he was stopped by his Russian schoolmate towering over him once more. Ivan spoke up sharply, as if commanding Alfred to answer.

"Alfredka, what is wrong? You are different today, da?"

Alfred realized how close they were, and backed up into the wall behind him. He looked down at nothing in particular before giving a plain reply.

"Nothing. And I'm not 'different', I'm always like this."

Ivan glared down at the shorter teen before speaking threateningly.

"Do not play dumb with me, Alfredka."

Alfred felt chills run down his spine as he spoke in a pessimistic tone.

"Vanya, I'm fine. It's just.... family stuff."

Ivan frowned before balling his hands into tight fists.

"So that son of bitch is finally back, da?"

Alfred sighed before rubbing his temples. He pushed the Russian away before tugging on the taller mans scarf.

"Calm down, will ya? I'll be fine. But we've gotta head to class now, dumbass. Otherwise we'll be late, and I know you sure as hell don't want to ruin your attendance. Now c'mon."

Alfred pulled a little harder, before successfully getting the Russian to move in the direction of their next classes. Conveniently being in the same direction, the two continued to walk side by side, with Ivan giving occasional comments.

"I'll walk you home."

"I have work. And no, your not waiting to pick me up afterwards. You know what he's like, he'll be even more upset if I show up with a guy-"

"Like me?"

"..... yeah. He'll think I hired a body guard or something. Though technically that would be true."

"But you did not hire me. I would go of my own free will. And hopefully end that worthless pigs life-"

"Calm down Vanya. I'll be okay. I've survived before, so I can survive again. Just trust me, 'kay?"

Violet eyes stared into blue for what seemed like ages, before Ivan replied softly, giving in to Alfred's reassuring gaze.

".... fine."

Alfred chuckled before breaking away from Ivan and heading towards his locker. He looked back to Ivan before giving a small smile.

"See ya' later, Vanya."

Ivan nodded before heading towards the stairs that lead to the second floor classes.

Alfred let out a soft heave of air before closing his locker and heading towards his second to last class of the day. At least he would have a few more hours of safety before going home.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~

In the schools main office stood a clean cut man with a head of bleach blond hair tied back in a neat bun, and a five o'clock shadow.
His icy blue eyes reflected the light in the room, making them glow. He glanced around the room before nodding at the receptionist. She smiled kindly before calling up a student on the intercom.
After about 5 minutes, a boy with shoulder length golden hair walked into the room. A lifeless expression never left his face as he waited for his father to speak. The taller man stared down at his son, as if looking at a pile of trash.

"I think it's time we invited Alfred over for dinner again. Don't you think so...."

"...... Francis?"