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Mustang is used to wearing gloves. White, made from cotton, and hand stitched. He would use them daily and for the past 14 years, they were his comfort zone, he felt safe and strong when he had them on. Currently, though, he didn't have those on. The ones he had on were purple, rubbery, and medical.
At least they don't leave a nasty smell like the yellow ones, I need to tell Hawkeye to bring more of it.
When he had his white gloves on, he was confident, but he felt hella wrong when he had the purple or yellow gloves on. He took a deep breath as he adjusted the big tray that had warm water with soup and a washcloth and another bowl that is filled with warm water only. today was shower day and he casted a quick prayer hoping that it will go smoothly without a single problem. Roy opened the door slowly using his elbow, thinking how crazy it was that his life flipped in a span of two months... “ Good morning, Eddie!” he said cheerfully, “ Today the sun is hidden behind the gloomy clouds, I think it’s going to rain later on!” he placed the tray on the nightstand, but the teen didn't open his eyes yet, “ It’s time for your bath, kiddo. you ready? I warmed up water for you and chose your favorite soup!! I will bring you the warmest PJs that I own, okay? What do you think, hmm?” Edward at his caregiver’s voice, opened his eyes a little, a small pained smile blossomed on his face, the big oxygen mask from the night before still stayed on his face, hiding part of his young face, a wet cloth was laid on the sweaty forehead, hoping it would calm the fever the younger suddenly had last night. Upon seeing the gold orbs staring at him, he sat on the edge of the bed and next to the child’s head, “ Hi, Ed...” the gloved hand creased the covered cheek, “ I will bring you a new shirt and will be right back, okay? Promise.” Edward was currently in Roy- er, what used to be Roy’s room. That room was turned into Ed's room as soon as the teen moved in with him. Mustang moved everything out from the first room to the other bedroom and placed Edward here simply because it was closer to the stairs. His room was just down the hall, he jogged quickly to it, grabbed his academy hoodie, which was made of soft warm fur, and brought a pair of warm cozy socks for the teen to wear. He ran downstairs and to the small basement that acted both as his office and washing room. Flame threw the clothing articles inside the dryer, turned it on, and ran upstairs again and to the teen’s room. He dumped the purple gloves in the trash, “ I am warming up the hoodie and the fluffy socks that you like! I know you can wear only one pair, but ah you know.” he chuckled, as he walked to the trolley he had in Ed’s room. This silly cart must be Roy’s favorite thing in this whole room. On the top shelve of the blue cart’ Roy’s stuff’ were organized: there were masks and gloves alongside some alcohol pads, baby wipes, and an antiseptic solution bottle. He pulled a medical mask out from the box and placed it on his face. “ a mask on so when I take out the needles and stuff you would be safe, we don't want you getting another infection, okay? And-” he pulled another pair of gloves, “ -those gloves are new! Riza dropped them off yesterday afternoon, I tried them and it doesn't leave a nasty smell! How awesome is that?” He pushed the trolley closer to the queen-sized bed and using his bare elbow, he checked the water’s temperature, finding it still warm, he brought a towel from the closet and his stool next to the bed, “Okay pal! Time to take a shower!” ‘ A shower’ once used to be when Edward would go to the bathroom, close the door, turn on the water, 15 minutes maximum and he would be out, fresh and clean. Then... It changed . It became Roy sitting next to the bathroom door and waiting until Ed calls him signaling help if he ever needed some. After that, it became Roy coming and bathing Ed in the bathtub. Now? Now moving the young male too much was a risk, they said. Edward was sick, and Roy was taking care of him... It all started exactly 5 weeks ago when he was scolding- no , scolding was the wrong word. he was yelling at Fullmetal. He was shouting and shaking his surroundings, he was making Edward flinch with every word he roared.
I’ll never forgive myself for that
He remembers how satisfied he was when Edward was curling on himself with every word he said, the great hero of people didn't say anything the whole time his commander screamed his lungs at him, “Don't you have anything to say, Fullmetal? LOOK AT ME, SOLDIER!”
The fuck did I win from this?
Edward didn't rise his eyes to him- couldn't do it actually, because he dropped to the ground right there and then. ...Roy never ran faster in his entire life than he did that moment, even when he was only 17 and in the middle of the war felid. He ran and jumped, he even pumped into the King , but he didn't care. back then all he felt was how scared that from all the jumping, moving, running, and shouting, Edward didn't move or moan. It took him around 17 minutes to get to the ER, with a 100 cenz bill because of the many times he cut the light and how much speed he was driving in, and a raw throat to make the nurses and doctors rush to him and take the heavy teen from his arms. It took Edward 6 days to wake up from his medical coma, with so many problems, half of which the doctors couldn't detect. When announcing the few symptoms that the blond had, everyone was shocked at how calm the teen was. No crying or cursing, only nodding calmly and saintly, “Thank you for your help.” but what he didn't take well was what followed that report.
“ Mr. Elric, we are afraid that your health will only decline from here on and out. You wouldn't be able to live by yourself-”
“ the hell you saying!? I can live by myself and take care of myself-”
“ you have to lis-”
“ LOOK! I raised myself, I took care of myself and my little brother since I was 5! Not even my silly body can stop me.”
Nothing was able to calm Edward after that, and he only lightened up more when they gave him two options: live at the hospital, or with his legal guardian. Surprisingly, Edward chose the latter. “ Okay, so I am going to take off your shirt, give you a quick wash to freshen you up then I am going to change the badges and needles, I will help you wear clothes, and you are going to nap. afterward, we will go to the hospital, how does that sound?” He started by taking off the big oxygen mask and turning it off, then he threw the now dry towel in the small Landry basket he had in the room. He started slowly stripping the child from the short-sleeved white T-shirt. He began pulling the shirt up, the right shoulder was easy since it was closer to him and Edward didn't have his automail on, he then moved to the left arm, started moving it inside the sleeve hole, and slowly started to pull the shirt up making sure it won't tug on the boy’s face. He threw that shirt in the basket as well before he took the green washcloth, and dipped it in the soapy warm water, and gently he started washing the skinny teen, he cleaned his chest, stomach, thighs, and the rest of the right leg, plus his neck shoulders and left arm. With another cloth, he socked it in the clean water before he washed the soap off the skin. “Okay, Eddie, time to wash your back.” He placed his right arm across the middle of the teen before using his left one he pushed the teen up from the back supporting his neck. Edward let out a small moan, “ Shshsh, we are almost done.” Roy whispered as he started humming a soothing tone hoping he will calm down the stressed teen. He repeated the same thing as he did before, washing with warm water after soap. He didn't go out with deep bathing, since they did one this Sunday, all the kiddo needed was just a refresh. After he was done he cocooned Ed in the towel he got from the closet earlier, “ I will go and get the clothes from the dryer, K? Be back in a flash!!” True to his word, he skipped down the stairs and got the fluffy clothes, and ran back up, very quickly. “ Time to change your needles! I know you hate them, but again, try thinking about good happy things!” Roy said, as he changed his gloves he can't get those infected!! Can't get them dirty , “ Happy things like the sun, the stars, chocolate, books! You name it.” He was chatting a lot, and he knew that, but Edward needed it. Edward wasn't only sick physically, but he sure started to get tired mentally. From being independent to completely dependent on his guardian for simple tasks, such as showering, changing clothes, walking around, and even going to the toilet- Last week... Last week was the first time they had to use diapers. Roy can see how the younger male will close his eyes every time he needs a diaper change... Edward was crying hard when the doctor said it was better for him rather than going to the bathroom. Roy almost cried with him. Mustang was talking a lot, about everything and nothing at the same time. Edward doesn't talk anymore, well, not as much as he used to. He would say ‘ tired.’ or, ‘No!’ but nothing else most of the time. Roy had no idea where the child was mentally, was he with him? Was he hearing what Roy was babbling about? He sure hoped so. With his mask still up, with his gloves still on, he walked to the big desk that was acting as his medical table, he kept everything there organized, “ You know, the other night, I was thinking about dragons.” He said over his shoulder, since his back was to the bed, his dark blue eyes flew to the instruction paper that he taped on the wall before focusing on what he had on hand “And, I am asking you, my fellow alchemist, Do you think I can breathe fire?”
Ed was throwing up last night... God, he needs a solution bag.
He opened the drawer that has needles inside, he scanned the small organized baskets till he found the long, thin, sharp needles. Opening the closet, he got a new solution bag from one of the baskets ( God bless Hawkeye and his mother for organizing his place while he was away.), he checked the date behind the bag to make sure it hasn't expired. Yeah... And before you ask, it was Jean’s fault. Anyway, he ripped the packaging of the bag open and got it ready, “Think how cool that would be! Me breathing Fire. Bud, I would be unstoppable!!” he then opened the long tube and got the spike part of it open and started to make some solution drop into the dripping chamber. After that he got the needle ready and connected it to the tube, “ but seriously think about it! ROY MUSTANG THE DRAGON ALCHIMST!” He laughed before he set the IV bag aside and got the feeding syringe ready, he walked to the cart and brought a couple of alcohol pads, and Sterilnazed his needles before he moved to the Queen sized bed, “ you could be my sidekick, we can call you.... Dragon Jr!” he smiled proudly as he hung the bag onto the IV pole, and sat down on the bed, “ let’s get ya dressed.” It took them five minutes but they did it, the blond was cozy in his Hoddie and single sock. After that Mustang then connected the IV needle and taped it to the teen’s elbow, He clicked on the clamp allowing fluids to drop. Then, he raised the shirt a little to expose the child’s stomach. he took another alcohol swap and wiped around the teen’s external bumper, getting it clean for the feeding. He brought a water bottle and the formula that was in a juice kinda box, they were stored in the closet in the room, so they were at room temperature. He screwed the syringe open and connected it to the adopter. This gastrostomy feeding tube was a lifesaver, it didn't need a big surgery to get it installed and thankfully Edward didn't make a fuss about it. He opened the water bottle and held it to the needle’s opening, “ Breakfast time, bud. Now, where were... Ah! Dragons-” he dropped around 30 milliliters and waited until they went all went inside the teen’s stomach before starting to spill the formal inside the tube, “ -they are cool!! But I gotta say my favorite animal is a wolf. You know, that’s what my mama calls me. Wolfy Roy.” He swears that he could see a small smile on the teen’s face. “ Buddy, you need an animal nickname as well... Maybe Bear? Squirrel? I know! Moose!” he laughed as he squeezed the last bits of the formula inside, then the rest of the water in, “ but maybe... You are a wolf as well... Yes, you are. You know, when you first joined the military, everyone made rumors about me, my favorite one should be when they said, ‘ The baby had a baby.’” Throughout his chat, he screwed the adopter shut and dumped the needle on the tray to get it washed later on, and threw the box and bottle away. when he looked at the teen he saw him yawn widely, “Alright, buddy! two things left, change the bandages and we gotta make sure that diaper is clean, then you can sleep. Okay, Sweetheart? Atta boy.” He held the lifted left thigh and undid the white bandages and threw them in the full trashcan, I need to empty it. “ HA, Eddie! Look at your thigh, It’s less red today.” Roy’s voice was full of pride, he took a clean towel from the trolley’s second shelf ( it had a few important things for Edward’s hygiene.) and the antiseptic solution bottle from the upper shelf. Dropping some of the antiseptics on the towel. He had a delicate touch when it comes to the blond boy, he wouldn't wipe harshly or with force, his blue monolid eyes turned soft as they glanced at the metal warm port, his leg was just like his arm, without its prosthetic. His Major’s thigh was infected. Two weeks ago his right shoulder was infected. The ports were giving Edward a lot of pain, they had to use strong seductive one time when it was snowing really hard outside... Giving that medicine was one of the worst experiences Roy ever experienced in his 30 years of living. “ Does it hurt?” he asked, “ Hu- rsss.” He did not expect an answer.
Oh my God!! He is talking! He is talking!
“ Oh baby, let me see if we have more of the good painkillers, okay? You need some for your fever as well... Let me just get this done, okay?” he quickly finished addressing the infected thigh. He threw the dirty towel in the laundry basket he had in the room before running towards the bathroom to wet a new cloth that he laid on the sweaty forehead, “ ty... Er.” the teen wheezed. “ oh I know, but we just need to change the d-”“ NOOOO!”“ Ed, darling, we don't want you to get rashes-” Edward sobbed as he tried curling on himself. It didn't work, “ HUUUUURSSSS!” “ EDWARD! Trust me if I could spare you the pain, I would’ve! If I can let you live your life healthy I would! I am not against you, I am trying to help .” His voice was soothing and stern, it made Ed stare at him owlishly before nodding, “Atta boy.” While Mustang changed the teen’s pullup, his mind went to how Ed from not talking to almost throwing a fit. Surprisingly, the bath went well today, no screaming. It took them 3 weeks to get to this point. Maybe him helping him with the bathroom was the same thing. It will take time before he gets to be at peace with it.
It was good hearing his voice though.
“ there! All that is left are pain meds, okay? Just let me check if we have some...” The man walked to the built-in closet, he moved boxes around trying to find some painkillers for the boy. It took him a few minutes, but he found one. He took a tube and connected them together, just like he did with the IV earlier. “ there! Pain should go away in a bit.” Roy smiled at the teen lovingly, as he sat down next to him. He took off the mask and gloves, he threw them in the trash, “ Okie dokie buddy. Time to nap! After that, we will go to the hospital to see Doctor Amy.” Mustang secured the oxygen mask tightly around Elric’s face, then he started running his bare fingers through the short blond hair. They cut it after a week or so after Edward started to live with him, “ it is for the best” , the blond said, “ if I was going to be stuck in bed, all it’s gonna do is get knots.” Roy made sure to keep the same style when he cut the hair, hoping to make Edward feel less different. Mustang shortened the bangs and gave him a clean shave for the back, “ I look just you!”
“ You... You don't sound upset?”
“ Well yeah, I don't look like that bastard anymore, so that’s a win I guess.”
Even when the boy fell asleep, the man didn't stop the soothing motion. It was like a reward to the teen. Waking up, taking the bath, meds, and taking formula was exhausting, plus the emotional moment he had when they had to change. He was tired.He was sick. And he almost rotted himself in his dorm if he didn't fall in front of Roy that day. Thunder suddenly cut through the sky, making the teen shiver. Sure, it was December and the teen didn't have his pants on due to discomfort and the fear of adding pressure to his stomach. But that wasn't a problem since Roy’s new house has the best heating system!
New house...
It was crazy how everything changed so fast, and yet when he thinks about it, everything had happened back to back, The events of his life lined up perfectly to this exact moment . Like Buying a new townhouse that has two bedrooms instead of his very tiny apartment? Forcing Edward to come to his office that day? Him making up with his Ma a month before? Suddenly being ordered to start new alchemy research? Alphonse and Edward have a big fight that made Al leave and search for their MIA father? It was just too good to be a coincidence. “ Sleep well, baby.” he leaned forward and placed a soft tender kiss on the sweaty forehead. The teen’s room was full of stuff: pictures of family and friends, the medical machines, the wardrobe, the desk that acted as Roy’s workplace, and the built-in closet, there were two carts and a laundry basket alongside a trashcan. Then There was the queen-sized bed- that was Ed’s bed. The IV pool, blood pressure monitor, and heart rate monitor with the oxygen tank with its mask were seated next to the bed. there was also a baby monitor that Roy uses when he is downstairs or in the basement working on his research, to watch Edward and get to him right on time to help him. Besides the queen bed, on the floor, on the opposite side to where Edward Sleeps, laid Roy’s makeshift bed. It was just a quilt, a blanket, and a single pillow. You tell him three months ago that he will sleep on the ground, daily for Fullmetal, that he will tell you you ate something shitty for you to think that he will do that to Elric. Elric. The more he sat with him, helped him out, and chatted with him, the more he realized how much he misunderstood the teen. Edward had been neglected growing up, and that shows through everything. Yeah, even when he isn't completely here, Roy can see how Edward’s gold eyes would go wide when he makes something that he likes or wants. Roy knows that Edward loves stew, it was a known fact really. so on his first day at Roy’s red townhouse, Mustang made some, as a small welcoming gesture-
“ you made stew??” Edward asked as he sat down, “That I did.” Roy smiled as he handed him a spoon, “ Gosh, thank you!” the teen didn't wait to dig in his dish, “ I hope you will like it! I know how much you love stew, sure it was a lot of work, but I can see how happy-”
“ you... Made stew because I like it?” the younger male dropped his spoon with a shocked face, “ Even when... It was lots of unnecessary work? For me?” Roy nodded with a small smile, “ Gee... Thanks, Musatng.” the teen smiled as he continued eating.
He will never forget how small stuff he did would make the teen beam. Helping him with changing his bedsheets, setting a glass of water, getting his meds ready, giving him new books- it was all normal things that every time he did it, the young teen would express his gratitude as if no one ever did that to him. And that maybe was the case. His father left when he was four, his mother fell ill when he was four as well then she passed away when he just turned five. After that he became on his own, caring for Al. He did those things to Al. Yet, no one did that to him.
That’s okay, I am here now, I can help him and care for him.
When he felt Edward was deep in sleep and wouldn't notice Roy being away for a bit, he started tidying up the place, he took the trashcan and the laundry basket with him after he turned on the baby monitor camera. Downstairs he was walking like a tornado, there were a lot of things to do and so little time!! He went to his basement, placed the dirty clothes in the washer, turned it on, and flee upstairs. He then emptied the trash into the bigger bin. He was going to take it out but stopped because of the rain outside.
How the fuck am I supposed to take Ed to the hospital now?
Mustang walked out of his home with the trash after he put on his coat, he was trying to think how he can take his ward when it suddenly hit him.
Use a fucking umbrella, Mustang.
He almost face palmed, because the hell was he thinking? Making a ceiling using alchemy?
Now that isn't a bad idea.
Shaking his head, he jogged inside hiding from the harsh weather. Glancing at the clock it just turned 12:55, which means they have around 40 minutes before their appointment, damn, today it took us longer than I thought to get Ed ready. His eyes then moved to the small monitor, he saw Ed was still sleeping he decided to take a quick shower. It has been days since he showered, so when the water started hitting his back he let a loud groan. Taking care of his ward was exhausting, sleeping on the ground gave him neck and back pain- But he wouldn't have it any other way. He quickly spread soap on his body and placed shampoo in his hair, his blue eyes watching the monitor- when he suddenly heard a faint cry . He sped through washing everything off, he skipped moisturizing and shaving, and as he quickly as he could he put on a nice fennel and pair of jeans, and ran to Edward’s room to find him- Sleeping .
Phantom crying. Oh my God. AHHHHHHHHH!
He ran his hand through his hair as walked to the desk to get their bag ready for their trip, he placed all the necessary medical belongings inside, then he put a nice book- the one about Dragons! He thought Ed would enjoy it. Sure the blond can't read now, that’s why Roy made a habit of reading whenever they go to the hospital. He got his coat on and went out to his car, he placed the bag in the trunk and checked that both the IV pole and the wheelchair were inside and well. He opened the back seat and made sure the pillow he had inside was comfy and well-positioned and there was an extra blanket there Feeling satisfied, he went back up to his Major’s room and gently started waking him up, “ Hi kiddo. Come on, time to go and see Doctor Amy... Noooo. Don't turn your face like that. I know you are tired, but baby, you can sleep in the car, how does that sound, huh?” The gold eyes opened, “ tired...” the boy whispered, “No I know, but we have to go. I promise that today won't be a heavy one, K? Besides, I packed a small surprise for you!” Roy clapped his hands excitingly. Edward smiled widely at that- probably for the first time this week, ( small victory.) , “ Sur... Pise?” “ yes!”“ Ooo.” “ ready to go?”“ Ahhuh.” After the Boy’s nod, Roy made sure to cover him well, and placed a beanie on the teen’s head, before he carried him bridal style, he also got the solution and the painkiller bags with them. Walking down the stairs would always make Ed hold him for dear life, Mustang started humming the words of a song they heard once on the radio as they walked out, an umbrella in hand covering Ed’s face ( he held it with his armpit. Don't fucking ask him how he did it. Because he has no idea how will he do it again.) “ We are outside.” he said once they stepped outside, “ we are going to the car now.” he laid the teen inside, and hooked the bags to the car’s calling before he covered Ed with the extra blanket. “ We are going to see Doctor Amy! We are going to see Doctor Amy! We are going to see Doctor Amy! We are going to see Doctor Amy! We are going to see Doctor Amy!” The flame was singing over and over ever since they pulled out of their driveway. When they stopped at a Red light, he looked back and saw Ed looking at him with a funny look, “Why lookin’ at me like that?” The teen only shrugged, “ No... Thin.” The rest of the drive was silent, except for the raindrops hitting his black car. It took them somewhere around 20 minutes to arrive at the Central City hospital. Roy parked in the closest parking slot to the main door. It was still raining hard, and he didn't want to hurt Ed accidentally, “ Alright, baby, here is the plan. I am going to set the umbrella and IV pole next to your wheelchair. Then I am going to add your IV bags to the pole’s hook then I am going to move you to the chair. Okay?” The teen nodded slowly, looking as if he was not paying attention to what really was being said. Mustang did just as he said. He Moved the chair close to Ed’s door, raised Ed up, and helped him lean on the car’s chair as he hooked the bags up, then slowly moved Edward to the chair, making sure not to do sudden moves or move too fast. He grabbed their bag, locked the car, and started walking. He hates hospitals. But what he hates more was how he got used to them. Used to be sitting in the waiting room, or walking in the halls from one place to another and from one lab to another. It just became so familiar. Too familiar.
Great God, please be it a good day. Please make it go smoothly. Please God make everything easy on Eddie. Please. Easy on me too...
“ Hullo! Good afternoon, how can I help ya?!” the curly-haired woman at the reception desk smiled a little too excited to see them here. Roy tried not to cringe, “ I uh... We have an appointment with Doctor Amy Jameson?” he rubbed his eyes, “Okay...” the woman was looking at her computer, “ patient’s name?” “ Edward Elric.” “ Phone number?” “ 210-244-8378.”“ he has Oxygen therapy and a whole body check-up plus some lab tests?”“ correct.” “ What is your connection to the patient?” “ I am-”
I am... I am simply just his caregiver...
“ Sir?” Hawkeye placed her hand on his shoulder, “ I will take care of him- of course, I will!! It’s just that...what if he hates me? Or doesn't want me to help him? What if he wanted his father instead?”
I am only his legal guardian.
“ I am his legal guardian.” “ Does he have insurance?”“ yes. Uh, Boba army.” “ very well... That would be 75 cenz, sir.” Roy got out his wallet and paid the requested money, “ thank you. Please stay seated in the waiting room. Doctor Jameson’s office was moved to the third floor. So you guys would need to use the elevator.” she smiled, “ get well soon, sugar!” Mustang thanked her and started to push the wheelchair towards the elevator, he was still whispering prayers, begging it to be a good visit. To make it A visit that wouldn't make it hard for him to see his ward’s face, a visit that wouldn't make him want to cry, and most importantly a visit that wouldn't make Edward cry. “ We have to wait for a bit now Ed.” Roy sat next to Ed as he looked at his hands if he just was better... A better scientist, a better alchemist, a better person- he could try harder to find what’s wrong with Ed, find out why he is sick like that.
But I am not
Edward, before his health got worse, said he has no idea why he is the way he was. As far as he knew, he was healthy and strong and didn't possibly carry any genetic diseases. He mentioned that he has those symptoms for a while- possibly a year or something before they started to worsen. Different from what people thought, Ed did go to get checked, but they found him normal and healthy. It was annoying how he can't blame anyone for this. So he started to blame himself. Especially after last week’s visit. Which wasn't happy or easy. He hopes today would be the opposite of that. “ Edward Elric?” a nurse called from outside the waiting room, “ here.” Roy answered as he got up, placed his hands on the handles of the wheelchair, and started to push it. It was heavy. No- not because of Edward. The teen did lose weight, the bag was light, and the IV pole and bags weren't heavy. But still. It was heavy. Pushing the damn chair? Carrying Edward? Staying all night awake with Edward on his lap or chest struggling? Edward wasn't the heavy one. Roy’s heart was the heavy one. Entering the doctor’s office always made his heart race because of what might happen there. Of what that bitch might say. To be honest, Roy never liked Amy, she felt like those women who would get drunk on a Tuesday night and hook up when they are married. Why hasn't he changed to another one yet? Because there isn't another doctor available to see Edward’s condition.
Bullshit.
He did think about going to another hospital, but he didn't get the chance to do so yet. “ Hello, Edward. Mr. Mustang.” she nodded as she looked at Edward’s file, “ alright... How have you been?” she looked at the teen asking, waiting for an answer knowing fully that he might not answer her, “ Okay so we are not improving there, are we?” she sighed angrily as she wrote down on her clipboard, “ Get him on the bed, please.” Roy did as he was asked, when he sat his major on the examination bed, their eyes locked. Gold eyes looked uncertain, almost as if they were scared. Blue eyes shifted at that, color moving around as if they understood.
Ed didn't feel comfortable with her as well.
Amy Jameson came and started poking the teen all over, the teen started to whine, “ he is getting uncomfortable.” Roy said as he got closer to her, “And he isn't getting better.” the woman sighed as he walked away from the examination bed, “Excuse me?” “ Elric. He isn't getting better.” Mustang stood there, eyes wide, “ what do you mean by that?” he growled after he collected himself, “ I mean that that silly child might be faking it for attention. His blood work isn't showing anything and it’s been 5 weeks, if he was going to get better he would’ve already gotten better. You are spoiling h-” Mustang slapped her. He wouldn't have done it if Edward didn't start to cry his heart out, and a skinny, weak hand grasped Roy’s bicep, “No... Fa-k! Romise. Rom...ise.” the boy was sobbing and was trying to pull his guardian towards him, “ hurss!” he wept, as Mustang glared at the woman in front of them. How dare she? How fucking dare she, accuse Edward to be a liar? To say he was spoiled and faking it? He slapped her and he doesn't regret it, not one bit. Flame took Ed and placed him in his wheelchair and pushed him out of the room without saying another word, “ Mr. Mustang?” the doctor followed him out and into the elevator, voice filled with anxiety and nervousness. “ Look-”“ Shut up, Bitch.” What the hospital’s visitors saw was him fastening his walk with a teen in the wheelchair looking incredibly sick- wait, was that a doctor following them? “ I WANT TO TALK TO YOUR BOSS!” Roy shouted as he halted to a stop, “This woman just accused my child of lying. ACCUSED MY BABY OF FAKING HIS ILLNESS.” his blue eyes shifted as he glared at the woman who tried to explain herself, “Oh! Uh, well...” The receptionist lady clicked away on her computer, “ I can get you another doctor to check on your son-” Son? Oh fuck what did I say?... “ Doctor Jensen Adam. He has a free appointment after 30 Minutes. Does that suit you?”
I still need Edward to get checked up... Soooooooo
“ yes. I also want your boss-”“ I will try to get him to meet you before you leave. But there is no guarantee he can do it today, I am deeply sorry.” The Colonel nodded his understanding and casted one last dirty look to the doctor beside him before he left the main lobby.
I named Edward my child... I am hurting myself. I can't believe you, Mustang! We promised ourselves that I wouldn't love Edward too much when he is here, and look at what did. Why did I do that?...
They sat in the empty waiting room, Ed’s eyes were closed, “ Baby I know you are tired, but you have to wait a little before you sleep, okay? Do you feel hungry? Thirsty?” the blond boy shook his head tiredly, “ Alright... Hey! What about I show the surprise that I brought you?” when he was met with a huge tired smile, the man got the blue sky leather book out from their bag, the words ‘ Dragons and royals‘ was written on it with beautiful gold foil. “ Now, it’s more of a fantasy novel, but I think it’s interesting!” he waited for a weak nod before he started, “ Okay, chapter one! Fire crown. Once upon a time and in the Arona kingdom, exactly right in the middle, the ugliest black dragon stood, breathing white and purple fire while the king’s knights were attacking him from every side...” The 30 minutes went by fast and for the first time in a while, Edward seemed to be understanding most of what his caregiver was saying and was actually focusing on the story. They got to Chapter 3 when the king and queen got ready to go on a wild adventure to get the nightlife dragon’s scales in order to make tea for their dying son, in hopes that it will heal him. It was Ironic. So freaking... Ironic . Maybe that’s why Roy found the novel so comforting? It had a Sick Child, worried medical parent -
Fuck.
He promised himself he won't get attached, he won’t fall in love with parenthood. He thought... He really just wanted Fullmetal to get better so they both can get back to the office, he didn't want to sleep on the ground to be there for Edward as soon as he sobs, he didn't want to move rooms to give his room to teen, he didn't want to have to carry Edward up and down the stairs and he didn't want Edward to be sick, to begin with! He got attached- No no no, this feeling wasn’t attachment only- this was love.
Good God.
Maybe he always loved Edward and held him near to his heart. Maybe he always cared for Edward and that’s why he did what he could to protect him and his little brother, but he just never knew. Maybe the Alchemist and Armor Boy settled down deep in his black heart and turned it into a sunny meadow? It didn't take long for Edward’s name to be called, and just like before, Roy followed the nurse to a similar room to that woman. inside, a young nurse had her hair up in a ponytail as her green eyes looked at the file in her hands, “You can get your son on the bed. Doctor Adam will be here in a minute.” she said kindly. Mustang did what he was asked, and he gave a reassuring squeeze to the boy’s flesh hand, “ is gonna be okay, baby.” “ hullo hullo there!” Dr. Adam came to the room and closed the door shut, he mentioned to Roy to sit down, “ I take it that you are the man that might get Jameson fired?” he chuckled as he took the file that his nurse handed him, “Maybe.” Roy gave a small laugh, “ I hope that I don't have to make sure you get fired as well.” “ Ah. Now, we do not want that, especially if I am gonna help your kid.” his dark green eyes read the teen’s file, before nodding to himself, “ Alright... Lynn, be a dear and get my stuff ready as I talk with my new bud.” “ ‘Course!” The doctor walked to the medical bed and smiled at the teen, “ Hiya Ed! How are you?” Jensen sat on a small chair and put on some gloves, “ a little birdie told me that you are in pain, Is that true?” Ed nodded slightly, “ Aw man, I am sorry to hear that. But that’s okay! Dad and I will help you get better, okay? Now, let’s see what’s wrong. I am going to touch your body as soon as you feel discomfort let me know so I can stop.” The older man started to examine the teen’s body slowly and making sure not to do anything surprising, the whole time he was quiet and had his brows furrowed as he did a normal check-up routine, he would occasionally whisper to Ed a few stuff but none of them seem to upset the teen which made Roy glad. “ oooOkayyy...” Jensen smiled wildly at Ed, “You were very helpful, young man. Thank you! I appreciate your patience, I know you must be really tired and can't wait till you go home, but we still have things we need to do okay? So here is what we are gonna do, you will go with Lynn to the oxygen therapy Room where my buddy, Nathan will help you.” his green eyes shifted to look at Roy who took a second to nod encouragingly at his ward, “ ‘S okay bud, the doc and I will talk a little while you are there, okay? Miss Lynn seems so nice as well.” The young nurse took the teen- who didn't look convinced- out of the room. His golden eyes were able to catch the darker blue ones before the door closed, showing the unshed silver tears that made Flame’s stone heart breaks. He normally would’ve gone with Edward and stayed by his side most of the time, however, Doctor Jensen seemed to have few things that he wanted to talk about with Roy, besides, Mustang has a good feeling about Jensen and his Nurse, and his gut never failed him before. “ I’ve read Ed’s file,” Adam started as he leaned back in his chair, “ and I know half of the stuff written there might be false, considering who was his doctor before me.”
That freaking bitch.
“ So, My good Colonel... Tell me What’s wrong with Ed?”
‘ what is wrong with Ed?’
.
.
.
“ WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?” Flame yelled making Ed flinch, “ Stupid, Reckless, and irresponsible! YOU ARE A FUCKING KID EDWARD-”
“ I DID NOT ACT LIKE ONE.”
“ don't you dare raise your voice at me, Elric. Or I swear I will turn ugly if you didn't fix whatever the hell is wrong with you, you little... You little broken thing.”
...
“ I am broken, Colonel.” Edward whispered, “ I can't be fixed.”
“ no one is broken-”
“ but I am!! I am so broken, I got sick, I ruined people’s lives, and I am costing you a lot of money because I am broken... What is wrong with me?”
“ Nothing is wrong with you, bud.”
“ BUT- Wait! You changed your mind?” The teen looked at him owlishly, “You think... You don't think that I am broken anymore? You don't think that I am a broken thing? That I am a wrong thing?”
‘ what is wrong with Ed?’
A silly question that a doctor asked to know what was the problem with his patient, yet this question brought those two memories to Roy’s mind as soon as he processed what he was asked. It isn't necessarily a bad phrasing, but Flame abused it and used it a lot to the point it turned into a bad thing. He didn't know what kind of impact he would have left on Edward when he shouted those 5 words at him every week since he was 12. He didn't know how much his words ruined Ed. Was this the reason Ed didn't tell him when something was wrong? So he won't appear more... Wrong in his adult’s eyes? Mustang hated those words after the event of second memory happened, and started to attack anyone asking that whenever he and Ed were out in public because Edward wasn't wrong- “ Colonel?” “ yes! Sorry... Uh, god I don't know what’s the problem. He just... Passed out in my office and went into a medical coma for a week and his health just kept worsening after that.” he scratched his head, “ we didn't live together before now, so I don't know if he was suffering from something that he didn't share with anyone. I did ask his brother who also agreed that he didn't know anything... Ed once mentioned that he felt different and weird for more than a year now.” Jensen nodded, “ his blood work?” The dark blue eyes closed trying to think. Did they do blood work? “ I think we- yes we did do one! 3, 2 weeks ago? I kept asking about it but I never got an answer.” the doctor nodded, “What about what happens at home? Tell me all of it, Sir.” Mustang didn't hold back. He mentioned everything that Ed and he experienced with the unnamed enemy that they could see but one of them could feel. An enemy that made the doctor frown with every word that was said. An enemy that stole everything from the Fullmetal Alchemist. And unlike Amy Jameson, Jensen Adam was an understanding doctor who seemed to enjoy his job and wanted to help, and he never once cut Roy off or took the teen’s health condition down. It made the colonel finally feel at ease because finally someone who might be able to help them. Someone finally might know what’s wrong. “ Okay, so let’s break down what we have to do now. Lucky for us, you guys are my last patients for the day, I will call the front desk to make sure the rest of the day is clear so I can focus on Edward’s case. Then here is what I want to do: 1) after his oxygen therapy he will come back here I want to redo his checkup to check on his infected thigh. 2) I have a good relationship with the guy who is in charge of the labs, so we will do a blood test that hopefully can get done today. 3) as for home care, I am very glad you are able to provide him with a comfortable place, but I think I might need to drop in and see if there is something else you guys might need in the futur-” “ Ed finished his oxygen therapy like a champion!” Lynn and the teen suddenly entered the room, “ did ya know you have a fighter, Colonel?” the man couldn't help but smile so wide for the boy who was fiddling with his blanket, “ I am a lucky man, I know.” The gold teen gave a shy grin at his guardian's words, showing a bit of the old Edward- an Edward Roy heard a lot about and had the pleasure of meeting him few times and for really short moments. When Roy thought about Ed he could divide the boy into a lot of nicknames and titles that will show his personality: The boy that gets shy when someone compliments him or cares about him or even hugs him? That was Trisha’s boy. The boy that walks confidently through the halls of the HQ and can persuade and win over generals? That was Edward’s boy. The boy that rolls his shoulders and yells at the enemies, will get himself killed so no one else would die? The people’s boy. And The most recent one, the boy that is vulnerable, open, and shows all of those 3 personas at the same time + is a soft caring boy? That... That's Roy’s boy. He got Ed on the bed again and watched the older male peeking and picking around the ports before moving to the actual ports themselves, he looked at it and used his fingers to try to feel around, “So Ed, I need ya to work with me, K? Good. Your ports... Without me or you touching them, do they hurt you?” Edward nodded. “ Okay, and without the automails attached, are you still in pain?” He nodded. “ very well...” The doctor continued to scan it before he turned to face Mustang, “ did the redness reduce?” the colonel nodded, “ it did!”, “ the infection is still there.” the brown-haired man looked sadly at Edward who seemed to be shaken by what it was said, “ Jamso-” “ I seriously don't know how the fuck that lady got her degree, but no the infection traveled up. As you can see that there is redness here up, and when you touch it, it doesn't feel right or healthy.” the man’s gloved finger pointed up and to the hip, “There is something internal that’s infected and that leaves us with a few options.” When it felt like Ed was getting better, he was actually getting worse. Roy sat down and heard everything the new confidant doctor had to say. The infection was traveling up toward Ed’s left hip, he thought that the skin around the port might be under a lot of pressure- so Jensen asked about Fullmetal’s automail doctor, Pinko Rockbell. If everything went well, they might have to travel to Resembool in order to get Ed’s ports removed, in order to heal any open wounds and free the teen from chronic pain.
Edward’s not going to be happy about that.
When Mustang addressed his concerns about Ed’s reaction, Adam responded with another thing that made the soldier's blood run colder, “ I might have to impute his whole leg to prevent the infection from traveling up more.” Antibiotics? Normally they would have been an option, but with how weak Edward’s stomach was currently, they will stick to the weaker version for a couple of days before moving to a stronger dose. Then the doctor addressed something else that’s important. Edward’s weight and general body image would set off alarms to anyone who would see him. Thankfully the doctor wasn't judgy when he talked with the young blond when he explained how important it is for Edward to try some foods again. He suggested homemade broth to replace one of the formula meals, and they will look into making it something heavier within the next few weeks. After that was done, Lynn Adam left with the kid to get some new blood samples. Another Nurse came in soon after, holding paperwork for Mustang to handle and another file for Doctor Adam to look into. It was no secret that Colonel Mustang hates paperwork, it was something he was able to escape ( kinda.) in the last 5 weeks. Now to be handed a whole dozen papers for him to read and sign makes him feel that his black hair had turned gray. He swears he saw a couple of silver hairs when he was dressing up after his shower today.
Damn, I showered today? Why the hell is today so long?
While his dark eyes scanned the papers he had, Jensen did the same. The older man would click his tongue every few minutes, clearly feeling frustrated, WHICH made Roy want to pull his hair after a while, “ what’s wrong?” “ has Edward... Was he poisoned?”
Poisoned?
“ if he was he never told me.” Mustang started, “ non of his last missions’ reports had anything that should show that Edward was poisoned. He didn't get injured with anything.” both men sat in silence before the black-haired man voiced, “ Why did you ask?” The dark green eyes met his eyes, “ I think... I think Edward might be poisoned.” “ Are you sure?” “ not yet. His symptoms don't give off as someone who is poisoned. But his blood work shows some concerning things.” he flipped the paper for the other man to see, “See? Those numbers aren't good. I am not sure what it is... But with the strange mix of symptoms, I think that he might be.” Jensen sighed, “We need to run a few more tests and scans before I let you guys go home, and hopefully we can figure out what is really going on.” And just like that, the Mustangs’ day was all spent in the hospital, moving from one room to another, doing all sorts of tests and scans, both hoping it will provide an answer to what is illness Edward possesses. It was around 6 pm when they left the hospital, Edward was fast asleep in the back seat while his caregiver was driving, dark eyes focused on the road in front of him. His mind was trying to think about the different possibilities of that mysterious malady. “ Were you poisoned, Eddie?” he asked in a soft whisper. The rain stopped earlier, and the moon was out. The only sound in his black car was Edward’s oxygen mask buzzing and the low snoring that followed every breath. Jensen said he will call him as soon as he figures out what is wrong he will call and until then, Edward has to rest and try getting as much nutrition as possible.
Oh god please be something Ed can defeat. Please. Please... Please.
After those thoughts, it didn't take long for Mustang’s car to stop in front of their red townhouse, the older male helped the younger one inside, seated him immediately in the living room, and turned on the heater before he left quietly to start preparing food for the night. Since he didn't have a frozen broth left from before, Roy started to make a new one. He got out the meat and diced it before throwing it inside a deep pan and letting it cook before he turned to work on the vegetables. Peeling, washing, chopping, and then picking up another vegetable to do the same process, Flame found his mind wandering further away than usual. To be honest he always thought whatever illness Edward had was something that the teen was going to heal from. But today, for some reason after his meeting with Doctor Adam his thoughts were running wild. Was Edward going to be okay? Will he be able to live a normal life? Did Edward hide something from him and he wouldn't know what it is?
Did Ed hide something because he was scared I wouldn't believe him?
Anything was possible and it was hard to think about anything else. he was tired and overwhelmed so he busied himself with praying over and over, begging the Lord to make this an easy road as he worked on his child’s meal. When he had the big pot cooking on a low heat it was already 7:30 pm, and Edward was still resting- which was good. Roy decided to look over his research to use his lost time as he waited for the food to cook. After a couple of hours and a change of clothes and readying all the tools to use later in Fullmetal’s night routine, the phone rang startling the blond awake, “It’s okay, Chum. I am gonna check the call and bring the food okay? You relax.” He was surprised when he picked up the phone to be met with Dr. Adam's voice:
“ Colonel Mustang? Sorry for calling you so late-”
“ No no no, it’s alright. I am sure you are calling because you found out something regarding Edward’s condition.”
“ I... I have, you are right.”
Jensen’s voice didn't promise good news. Roy held the phone’s cord hard between his fingers.
“ I actually figured it out earlier tonight, But... But my wife suggested I wait and ask my fellow doctors about their opinion and I did and we all agree on the diagnoses-”
“ And ?” He truly resisted yelling at the poor man.
“ Edward is sick with Black Fever. A really rare illness. Edward is the 150th confirmed case in the last 4 decades.”
Black Fever. Mustang only heard about it once from Havoc a couple of years ago when he said his big aunt Ellia died from it.
Died...
“ Is my child going to be okay?”
“ I am so sorry...”
Mustang thought he might faint.The male on the other side kept talking but he couldn't understand a word, his mind couldn't process what he was just told. He had to ask!He had to make sure that Ed wouldn't die!!
“ -That's my guess-”
“ is he going to die?”
“ Colonel... Buddy, Black Fever so far looks like a deathly disease. But listen to me: Edward is young and strong, and most patients we either really young or really old. Him being able to live this far with this illness is wonderful. And hear me out when I say that we just started in the healing journey-”
“ you didn't answer me.” Really Roy didn't want speeches tonight. Today was long enough as is. He wanted a clear answer.
“ my team thinks that Edward doesn't have long. He might see the first month of spring next year-”
“ so you are saying that he has 3 months.” It wasn't a question, it was a statement.
“ Uh- yes, only if we didn't work on helping him out. We can try attacking the bacteria that caused this, we are in a more advanced age, Colonel. We have resources and knowledge that our parents didn't have. And you rest assured that I will not stop helping him. And I know that you wouldn't as well.”
“ but he will die-”
“ only if we have up. But... Fuck Roy, yes, he might die. But listen, don't live in grief while you still have that champion with you, okay? Not while we all can still help him.”
The phone call ended soon after that, with the doctor sounding apologetic and with colonel being shocked about how he feels about this situation. He poured broth and went to the living room, “ Eddie, time for dinner.” he whispered to his child in order to wake him up again. He smoothly pulled Edward to his lap, rested the child’s head on his shoulder, and started feeding him small spoons of broth. “ stay with me, baby.” Roy whispered suddenly after a couple of minutes passed not sure if Edward can understand him, “ Stay and let us celebrate Christmas together this year and then the new year’s... stay so I can see you turn 17, stay... Stay so I can take you to see the world, We still have lots of things to do together... Ed buddy, please don't make me lose another best friend.” Edward didn't say anything back( Mustang didn't think that Elric will say anything, to be honest.) Though a thing to celebrate that the teen finished his meal and didn't seem upset by the sudden new change, which Roy was thankful for. They went upstairs to start their night routine, which was very simple ( thank God.), the older male assisted the younger with changing for the night, gave him his newly described medications, and told him a bedtime story before tucking him under his favorite blanket. Somehow Mustang still had energy so got a few stuff done after their long day, he did a few chores like cleaning, filing his research that he will drop by the office tomorrow, folding some laundry, and washing the dishes. The whole time, his brain was on autopilot. Except for the fact His brain was repeating the fact that Edward might die soon. Sure, Jensen did explain that there is a good chance of Edward surviving, with the right meds and therapy plus a few surgeries- like the automail surgery, the kid could make it! Fullmetal was able to live this long, it will be silly if he gave up now. Flam understood that. But-
What if he passed away by March? What if the medication failed? Does he feel comfortable? Am I providing good care? Is he aware of how much pain he is going to be in? Does he even want his old life back? Can I even help him at this point?
He somehow found himself standing in the room and looking at his child’s sleeping form... Tears were forming in his eyes when it really hit him what might happen.
Eddie might die.
“ oh baby.” he whispered as he sat on the ground next to the sleeping sick teen, his hand pushing the gold bangs away from the gray face, “You fight this okay? Fight this and if you won... Imma give you a reward! I will give you anything you want, okay? Anything!” He held the skinny hand in his much more stronger hand, “ Eddie. Do you know that you are my kid, kiddo? Do you know how important you are to me?” A bigger hand was holding the smaller hand.Legs were sleeping under the body’s weight. Bangs hide the crystal blue eyes. Mustang is used to wearing gloves. Whether they are made of cotton or rubber. If they were meant for alchemy or medical use. He used one pair to fight foes that he can see and defeat. The other pair was used to provide help to defeat a foe he can't see. “ I love you. ” And just like every night, tonight, The Flame Alchemist slept on the ground, but this time he was leaning on the big bed. And instead of being on the other side of the room, he was next to Ed and the medical machines that were buzzing with life. And just like every night, that night he jolted awake to his alarm to give Edward his antibiotics and pills. And just like every night, he shushed Ed when he moaned in pain with soft loving words. And just like every night, he planted a long kiss on the younger’s forehead after he checks if there was a fever. But tonight he received a wide smile from the youngest, “ lo-be you ‘S ‘ell.” after the kiss.
“ Sir?” Hawkeye placed her hand on his shoulder, “ I will take care of him- of course, I will!! It’s just that...what if he hates me? Or doesn't want me to help him? What if he wanted his father instead?”
He wants me. And I sure as hell won't give up on him. Even if it meant me giving away my limps or sight for him to live again.
Anything for my baby boy.